The Torah Learning on this site is dedicated in memory of Rochel Leah bas R' Chaim Tzvi and R' Yisrael Menachem ben R' Binyamin.
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.
In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the four kingdoms that oppressed the Jewish People. Each kingdom had a specific negative characteristic which the Jewish People must fight against.
Rabbi Hanoch Teller presents an overview of Parshat Emor, specifically highlighting some of the major mitzvot discusses in the parsha.
Rabbi Hanoch Teller presents specific mitzvot from Parshat Achrei-Mot and Kedoshim.
On Parshat Acharei Mot and Kedoshim, Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about how we are to understand and define what keduasha is.
Rabbi Hanoch Teller presents an overview on Parshat Tazria-Metzorah.
Mrs. Chana Prero gives an overview of the affliction of tzaraat, and its causes.
On Parshat Tazria-Metzora, Mrs. Shira Smiles focuses on the tzaraat that effects the home.
Parshat Tzav relays the importance of the inner spiritual service of G-d.
Rabbi Hanoch Teller points out some of the important themes of Sefer Vayikra in general and specifically Parshat Vayikra.
Mrs. Chana Prero explains a cryptic episode in Parshat Shemini, where it seems that the revered Moshe Rabbeinu and his holy brother Aharon the Kohen Gadol, have an intense disagreement. This class does not assume any prior knowledge of Hebrew or familiarity with Biblical texts.
Rabbi Hanoch Teller gives a overview of Parshiot Vayakhel and Pekudei.
In this Torah shiur (class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses how this week’s Torah reading involves the prohibition of work on Shabbat. Through a unique understanding of the sin of the Golden Calf, the Shem Mishmuel understands the essence of Shabbat.
On Parshat Vayakhel-Pekudei, Mrs. Shira Smiles focuses on Betzalel, a key figure in the mishkan experience.
Rabbi Hanoch Teller presents an overview of the Parsha.
In this shiur (Torah class), by Rabbi Hershel Reichman, the sin of the Golden Calf is explained from a Chassidic point of view.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the cloud of glory that rested on the Mishkan, and analyzes the last verses in the Book of Shmot. This class delves into the commentaries in a clear and simple manner, and does not assume any prior knowledge of Hebrew.
In discussing Parshat Tetzave, Rabbi Reichman analyzes the making of the Menorah in the Mishkan and provides insight into our ultimate relationship with G-d.
In this shiur (Torah class) on Parshat Tetzaveh, Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the clothing of the Kohen Gadol. The Shem MiShmuel explains the significance of these unique garments.
Parshat Ki Tisa contains a puzzling passage referring to the Tefillin of G-d. The Shem Mishmuel explains this allegory in terms of the Jewish people’s complete connection to their Creator.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the brit (covenant) between Hashem and the Jewish people at Har Sinai vs. the brit that took place after the chet ha’egel (sin of Golden Calf).
On Parshat Tetzaveh, Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses why the names of the tribes appear two times on the Kohen Gadol’s garments, and examines the connection between the different stones, and the tribes that were engraved on them.
In his shiur on Parshat Teruma, Rabbi Reichman discusses the concept of the Mishkan as the physical representative of our connection to the One Above.
Mrs. Chana Prero explains why the Kohanim wore special garments during their service, the Bigdei Kehunah, and then focuses on the significance of the Eifod (holy apron worn by the Kohen Gadol), according to the Malbim and other commentaries.
On Parshat Teruma, Mrs. Shira Smiles focuses on the question of why the Torah says “take for me a portion,” when technically it should state to give a portion, and discusses the five main ingredients of what tzedaka is about.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the reasons for building a Mikdash or Mishkan, a physical place for Hashem’s Presence, and also discusses the dimensions and symbolism of the Shulchan, the holy table.
In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the meaning of the half shekel and what it represents.
Mrs. Chana Prero analyzes the Torah prohibitions against oppressing the vulnerable elements of society, and the obligation to lend money.
In discussing this weeks`s parsha, Parshat Mishpatim, Rabbi Reichman relays the laws of a Jewish servant and provides a critical perspective on our relationship with G-d and the Torah.
On Parshat Mishpatim, Mrs. Shira Smiles focuses on the concept of certain laws which are specific to the judges, to ensure a judgment of truth.
