The Torah Learning on this site is dedicated in memory of Rochel Leah bas R' Chaim Tzvi and R' Yisrael Menachem ben R' Binyamin.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the story of Kayin and Hevel, the sons of Adam and Chava. The actions of Hevel and Kayin teach us how to serve G-d and do Teshuva (return to Him). This class does not assume any previous knowledge of Hebrew or of the Parsha.
Mrs. Chana Prero analyzes the sin and the punishment of the Dor Haflagah, the generation after the Flood that built the Tower of Bavel. The class goes through the relevant verses and the corresponding comments of Rashi. This class is suitable to anyone wanting to explore the topic inside, regardless of knowledge of Hebrew or level of textual skills.
Mrs. Chana Prero compares Avraham, Sara, and Ishmael’s tzchok (laughter), to determine which laughter is appropriate in different situations. She also discusses Hagar’s behavior when she is sent out of Avraham’s home.
Mrs. Chana Prero elucidates Avraham Avinu’s instruction to his servant Eliezer, as Eliezer embarks on a mission to find a wife for Yitzchak Avinu. The class discusses why Yitzchak could not marry a Cananite woman, and why Eliezer chose to use a sign to help him complete his mission. The class, which assumes no prior knowledge of the Chumash or of the Hebrew language, encourages use of the Artscroll Sapirstein Rashi Chumash.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the blessings that Yitzchak wanted to bestow on Esav. This class, which does not assume any prior knowledge of the text or of Hebrew language, answers questions such as why Yitzchak wanted to give Esav the brachot (blessings), why Rivka intervened, and why Yaakov did not tell the truth.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses Yaakov’s dream of the angels ascending and descending a ladder to Heaven, as he travels to Charan. This class, which does not assume any knowledge of Hebrew or familiarity with textual study, discusses why Yaakov received the vision at this juncture, and what this dream represents.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the beginning of Parshat Vayishlach. Mrs. Prero analyzes Yaakov’s preparation for meeting Eisav. Each of Yaakov Avinu’s actions set a precedent for later events in Jewish history. In the course of the class, Mrs. Prero also expound on the concept of Maaseh Avot Siman Labanim.
Mrs. Chana Prero delves into the enigmatic topic of Yehuda and Tamar’s relationship. Why did their relationship need to develop in an extraordinary way, and was their behavior considered appropriate?
Mrs. Chana Prero explains the verses and comments of Rashi and others which describe the first encounter between Yosef and his brothers, twenty two years after he was sold into slavery. This class assumes no prior knowledge of Hebrew or experience with reading Biblical texts.
Mrs. Chana Prero explores why Yosef chose to falsely accuse and imprison his brother Binyamin. The class is based on the text of the verses of the Parsha along with the comments of Rashi. No previous knowledge of Hebrew or textual skills are required for the class.
Mrs. Chana Prero analyzes the brachot (blessings) that Yaakov Avinu bestowed on his grandsons Ephraim and Menashe.
Mrs. Chana Prero dissects the episode of the Burning Bush, Hashem’s command to Moshe, and Moshe’s refusal. This Torah shiur does not assume any previous knowledge of Hebrew or experience with Biblical texts.
Mrs. Chana Prero explores the justification for hardening Pharoah’s heart, and restricting his free will.
Mrs. Chana Prero explains some of the reasons for the plagues.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the test the Jewish people encountered at Mara, and the laws they were taught there.
Mrs. Chana Prero explains each of the Ten Commandments and their applications. The class does not asume familiarity with Torah study or knowledge of Hebrew.
Mrs. Chana Prero analyzes the Torah prohibitions against oppressing the vulnerable elements of society, and the obligation to lend money.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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.
Mrs. Chana Prero gives an overview of the affliction of tzaraat, and its causes.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the mitzvah of Peah, leaving a corner of one’s filed unharvested, to benefit the poor. The mitzvah is mentioned in the previous parsha as well. Mrs. Prero explains the root of this mitzva, and analyzes its repetition in the Chumash.
Mrs. Chana Prero delves into the blessings listed in this parsha.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the tasks of the Levites in the Mishkan and in the Temple, and explains the connection between the Bechorim, the firstborns, and the Levi’im.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the nature of the Nazir, based on a thorough reading and explication of the basic commentaries.
Mrs. Chana Prero discusses the episode of the Jews’ complaints about the Manna, and Moshe Rabbenu’s reaction to it.
Mrs. Chana Prero speaks about Moshe’s prayer to Hashem and his request that Hashem not punish the Jewish people.
