Father’s Merit
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Mrs. Chana Prero discusses why the blessings to Yaakov invoke Hashem as G-d of Yitzchak and not as G-d of Avraham.
Category: Parsha
This series of classes on the Parsha offers an eclectic selection of lectures on the weekly Torah portion spanning the introductory level to highly advanced in-depth studies of selected passages weaving interpretations from Early and Late Commentators as well as Chassidic and Mussar Masters.
In Parsha Journeys, Rabbi Teller presents the complete storyline of the first two chapters of each of the weekly parshiyot (Torah portions), in addition to insights into some of the more famous events discussed. In the Living The Parsaha series, Rebbetzin Smiles presents selected topics in the weekly Parsha, with a focus on character development. Early and Later Commentators, including excerpts from classical works produced by the Chassidic and Mussar Movements, are woven together to present a new insight into one’s life as an inspired Torah Jew In Chassidut on the Parsha, Rabbi H. Reichman synthesizes the comments of the Midrash, the Talmud, and Hasidic thought and connects them to contemporary life, applying the lessons of the Parsha to modern issues and challenges.
Dual Flames
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On Parshat Vayigash, Mrs. Shira Smiles explores the Midrash on the Passuk that says that Yaakov sent Yehuda ahead to Egypt. He was sent ahead to Egypt to make this havdala between the holiness of living a Torah life and the darkness of Egypt.
Yosef’s Dreams
Posted onMrs. Chana Prero analyzes Yosef’s dreams. (This class, based on classical Biblical commentaries, does not assume any prior knowledge of Hebrew or familiarity with textual study.)
Our Forefathers’ Blessings
Posted onChana Prero analyzes the six blessings G-d gives Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov.
The Collateral
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An explanation of the significance of each of the items Yehuda gave Tamar as collateral.
Kever Rachel
Posted onOn Parshat Vayishlach, Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about the concept of Kever Rachel, and why Rachel is buried “baderech,” on the way.
Yaakov’s Escape from Lavan
Posted onMrs. Chana Prero explores the classical commentaries to gain a deeper understanding of the events surrounding Yaakov’s departure from Lavan.
Tamar’s Intentions
Posted onAn exploration of Tamar’s intentions in initiating a relationship with Yehuda.
Secretive Signs
Posted onOn Parshat Vayetzei, Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about the episode of Rachel sharing Yaakov’s and her secret signs with Leah.
Parshat Toldot
Posted onMrs. Chana Prero explores the classical commentaries to gain a deeper understanding of the blessings that Yaakov and Eisav received from Yitzchak.
Yehuda’s Intentions
Posted onAn explanation of Yehuda’s intentions ,his motivation in being with Tamar, and his mindset at the time.
Emerging Worlds
Posted onOn Parshat Toldot, Mrs. Shira Smiles explores the different worldviews and dynamics of Yaakov and Esav, to gain an appreciation of why their brachot were given as they were.
The Mistakes of Er and Onan
Posted onAnalysis of the actions of Er and Onan, the sons of Yehuda, and their punishment.
Mindful Middot
Posted onOn Parshat Vayetzei, Mrs. Shira Smiles focuses on Rashi’s medrash on the idea that Hashem has ‘”gathered in” Rachel’s shame.
Parshat Vayeira: Understanding Judgement
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In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the spiritual underpinnings of Akeidat Yitzchak, the binding of Yitzchak. The events that lead up to that test provide insight in our present day understanding of life and its challenges.
Yehuda’s Marriage
Posted onExplains Yehuda’s marriage and the significance of the names of his sons.
Ultimate Benefit
Posted onOn Parshat Lech Lecha, Mrs. Shira Smiles delves into the deeper understanding of Avraham’s test of Lech Lecha.
Parshat Lech Lecha: The Mystery of Lot
Posted onIn this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the character of Lot and his journey from Avraham’s prime student to a member of the wicked city of Sodom. Based on the teachings of the Shem MiShmuel, Rabbi Reichman explores the differences between Lot and Avraham and how it affected each one’s path.
Parshat Vezot Habracha
Posted onRabbi Hanoch Teller relates the storyline of Parshat V’zot Habracha, with selected insights and comments.
Yehuda’s Descent from his Brothers
Posted onWe begin the story of Yehuda and Tamar by exploring why this episode is placed in the middle of the narrative of the sale of Yosef.
Lessons of Laughter
Posted onOn Parshat Vayeira, Mrs. Shira Smiles explores the theme of laughter which is connected to the birth of Yitzchak.
Parshat Noach
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Expanding the Essence
Posted onOn Parshat Noach, Mrs. Shira Smiles examines the puzzling Rashi at the beginning of the parsha that discusses whether Noach was in fact a tzadik or not.
Parshat Breishit: Yaysh V’Ayin: Being Something
Posted onIn this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman explains the concept of Creation, in which G-d created the world from nothingness. Based on the Kedushas Levi, the Chassidic work of Reb Levi Yitzchak Miberdichev, this class explores fundamental concepts of G-d’s goal in creation,and man’s purpose in this world
Guidelines for Greatness
Posted onon Parshat Bereishit, Mrs. Shira Smiles takes a deeper look into the first Rashi in the Torah.
Parshat Haazinu
Posted onRabbi Hanoch Teller speaks about Parshat Haazinu.
Parshat Nitzavim – Vayelech
Posted onRabbi Hanoch Teller speaks about Parshat Nitzavim and Vayelech.
Parshat Ki Tavo
Posted onRabbi Hanoch Teller discusses the storyline of Parshat Ki Tavo.
Parshat Va’etchanan
Posted onRabbi Hanoch Teller relates the storyline of Parshat Va-etchanan, with selected insights and comments.
Parshat Devarim
Posted onRabbi Hanoch Teller relates the storyline of Parshat Devarim, with selected insights and comments.