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 Parshat Beshalach, in the aftermath of the Splitting of the Sea, as the Egyptians entered the Yam Suf, each on received exacting punishment for their evil deeds. An exploration of why Hashem waits before punishing people for their misdeeds, and the level of exactness in all Divine retribution.
In Parshat Bo, the Jews leave Mitzrayim. This shiur explores the unique promises of geula and its relevance to each of us today.
Parshat Vaeira begins with Hashem’s declaration of His intent to redeem the Jewish people from Egypt. What was the ultimate purpose of the redemption from Egypt?
In Parshat Vayechi, Yaakov Avinu blesses Menashe and Efraim, Yosef’s children. Why is this considered Yosef’s blessing, and what is the true purpose of blessing someone?
This fascinating shiur on Parshat Shemot explores the episode of Aharon Hakoehn’s joy for his brother Moshe’s appointment as the leader of the jewish people, and epands the topic of joy and passion in fulfilling mitzvot. The feeling that is put into the mitzva makes both the mitzva and its reward so much more valuable.
In Parshas Vayigash, the emotional confrontation between
An in-depth exploration of the purpose and message of Yosef’s dreams in Parshat Vayeshev.
In Parshat Vayishlach, Yaakov Avinu turns down Eisav’s offer to accompany him in peace as they continue on their life’s journey. Why?
The connection between Yaakov Avinu, tefilla, and the Beit Hamikdash is explored within the context of the episode in Parshat Vayeitzei when Yaakov awakens on Har Hamoriah and calls the place ‘the House of Hashem’.
This shiur on Parshat Toldot attempts to explain the seeming contradiction between Yaakov Avinu’s essence, which was the embodiment of Truth, with his actions in taking the brachot fro Yitzchak, which seemed to be the ultimate deception.
Parshat Chayei Sara begins with the sale of the Mearat Hamachpela, the Cave of Machpela, from Efron to Avraham Avinu, for the burial of his wife Sarah. An exploration of this episode.
We compare and contrast the intention of the residents of Sodom in Parshas Vayeira to harm Lot’s visitors, with the terrible episode of Pilegesh Bigiva found in Sefer Shoftim.
In this shiur of Parshat Lech Lecha, we exploring Avraham Avinu’s impact on his many disciples.
An exploration of the episode of Shem and Yafet’s act of respect for their father Noach after he planted a vineyard and was affected by the wine he drank, and their subsequent reward for their ‘kibud av’.
An explanation of the Midrash describing the complaint of the moon and the shrinking of its size during the world’s Creation.
Exploring the brit, the covenant, between G-d and the Jewish People, at Har Sinai and in Arvot Moav at the end of 40 years in the Desert.
Understanding the ‘Briti Shalom’, ‘Covenant of peace’, which Pinchas was blessed with as reward for his actions in ending the plague through the killing of Zimri.
Why did Bilam wish for a death like the ‘death of the upright’ while he blessed the Jewish people?
Understanding the power of the Nachash Hanechoshet, the Copper Serpent, to heal the people afflicted by plague in Parshat Chukat.
An explication of the episode of Aharon Hakohen’s staff blossoming with almond blossoms overnight after the failed rebellion of Korach.
Rebbetzin Smiles explores one of the questions that Moshe Rabbenu asked the Meraglim, the spies, about the Land of Israel: Does it have trees? What is the deeper message behind this question? What does it mean for our daily life?
Why is Aharon the Kohen Gadol praised when he did not deviate from the exact instructions for lighting the menorah daily?
The uniqueness of Jewish lineage, ‘Yichus’.
Understanding the bracha which Hashem promises the Jewish people regarding the times of Moshiach, which states ‘I will lead you upright’, v’olich etchem komemiyut’.
An exploration of the prohibition against charging interest, and its ramifications for our inner lives.
In this Torah class Rebbetzin Leah Kohn discusses Parshat Korach
Exploring the mitzvah of Kiddush Hashem, sanctifying Hashem’s Name.
Exploring the mitzva of loving our fellow Jews, V’Ahavta L’rai’acha Kamocha.
Rebbetzin Smiles explores the act of Nadav and Avihu bringing Ketoret, and their subsequent deaths.
In this class, we explore the connection between Adam Harishon, Adam, and the korbanot, sacrifices.
