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 delves into the meaning of the bris (covenant) that takes place between Hashem and the Jewish People, in this week’s parsha, Parshat Nitzavim. The Shem MiShmuel explains the underlying essence of the bris as the commitment to Hashem in all circumstances, both positive and negative.
In this Torah shiur (class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman expounds on this week’s parsha, Parshat Ki Teizei, based on the Shem MiShmuel, which explains the secret to the Jewish people’s success in war as a function of unity within us.
This week’s Parsha, Parshat Shoftim, discusses the Torah concept and details of war. Rashi writes that the merit of Shema Yisrael will protect Jewish soldiers. Rabbi Reichman explains this idea, based on the Shem MiShmuel, in terms of the connection between the mind and the heart of every Jew.
This week’s Parsha of Re’eh, the Torah discusses a dwelling for G-d within this world. In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Reichman compares the spiritual significance between the Mishkan in Shilo and the Beis HaMikdash in Jerusalem based on the explanation of the Shem Mishmuel.
In this Torah shiur (class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman teaches Chassidut on the parsha, Parshat Eikev. The elements of mind and heart often conflict with one another. Yet, the Torah teaches how to combine mind and heart creating one powerful drive in the service of G-d.
In this class on the Chassidic thought on Parshat Devarim, Rabbi Hershel Reichman elaborates on the interpretations of the Shem Mishmuel to Parshat Devarim. In this shiur, Rabbi Reichman discusses why the appointment of judges is part of the story of the Meraglim, and explains that Jewish wars involve a spiritual war as well as a physical war. Rabbi Reichman expands the topic with an analysis of the two types of yetzer hara, and reveals how the method of defeating all yitzrei hara is commitment to truth.
In this class on Parshat Matos, Rabbi Hershel Reichman explains how one perfects every level of the Jewish soul. He then discusses how the Jewish holidays focus on the various aspects of the soul.
In this class on Parshat Matot, Rabbi Hershel Reichman talks about the Shem Mishmuel’s discussion of the Torah law permitting personal vows and promises. These personal nedarim do not violate the commandment not to add any commandments to the Torah. The Shem Mishmuel develops this discussion into an exposition on the power of any words uttered by a Jew. Included in this shiur is a discourse on the two types of holiness, individual and communal, and the two types of Jewish leaders described by the Shem Mishmuel.
In this Torah shiur (class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the week’s parsha in which the the qualifications a leader of the Jewish nation is explained. Rabbi Reichman explains these qualifications based on the Shem MiShmuel.
In this Torah shiur (class) on the weekly Torah portion Rabbi Hershel Reichman explains the hatred Balak and Bilaam had towards the Jewish People, based on the explanation of the Shem MiShmuel.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about the challenge of maintaining moments of inspiration, using them to fuel our constant spiritual journey.
Rabbi Hershel Reichman gives a Chassidic explanation on the relationship between Bnei Yisrael and Edom, based on the natures of Yaakov and Yisrael.
In this Torah shiur (class) on the complex episode of mei meriva, which cost Moshe Rabbeinu entrance to the land of Israel, is explained by Rabbi Hershel Reichman as a product of the dual nature of miracles.
In this Torah shiur (class) Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses this week’s Torah portion, Parshat Korach, in which we read of the rebellion of Korach. Rabbi Reichman gives a deeper, Chassidic understanding of Korach’s actions and thoughts, based on the Shem MiShmuel.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Korach.
In this Torah shiur (class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses this week’s Torah portion, Parshat Shlach, in which the tragic episode of the meraglim, spies takes place. Rabbi Reichman, based on the Shem MiShmuel, explains the underpinnings of sin of the spies and the Jewish People.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Shelach, and the sin of the spies.
Rabbi Reichman discusses Aharon and Hashem’s interchange, in this week’s Parsha, regarding his service in the Mishkan, based on the Shem Mishmuel’s understanding of the essence of a Kohen’s role among the Jewish People.
In this Torah class on Parshat Naso, Rabbi Hershel Reichman uses a Chassidic approach based on the Shem MiShmuel,to explain the differences of service of G-d among the sons of Levi.
The Shem MiShmuel explains in reference to this week’s parsha the unique connection every Jew has to the entire Jewish People
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Bamidbar.
In Parshat Bechukotai, the Torah lists the rewards for following in Hashem’s path. While discussing this week’s parsha, Rabbi Reichman uses the commentary of the Shem MiShmuel to explain these rewards and what exactly is incumbent upon us.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Bechukotai. The Parsha teaches us the importance of constantly investing in our relationship with G-d.
Rabbi Reichman continues his discussion of the Shem MiShmuel’s theme of the individual vs. the community, focusing on how the individual manages to be part of the community without losing his self.
In this shiur (Torah class) Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the Shem MiShmuel’s comparison between shemitah and yovel and explains the difference between the individual’s and the community’s commitment to Torah.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Behar. The message of Shmitta and other topics in this Parsha is one encouraging us to constantly struggle and grow through every challenge G-d brings.
Based on the double usage of the instruction to tell the Kohanim in the first passuk, Rabbi Reichman discusses the connection between intellect and emotion and how to bridge the gap.
On Parshat Kedoshim, Shira Smiles speaks about judging one’s fellow Jew favorably.
In this Torah shiur (class), Rabbi Reichman uses the interpretation of the Shem MiShmuel to explain the commandment of “Kedoshim Tihiyu,” (Be Holy) as a specific pathway of achieving holiness.
In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the purpose of the land of Israel and elaborates on its unique characteristics.
