Tanach

Hallel Part 1: Perek 113

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This video is class 1 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this shiur (Torah class) on Tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David begins teaching the chapters which make up the prayer of Hallel. In this class, Rabbi David introduces various halachic aspects of Hallel, as well as discussing the content and emotions that accompany this song of thanksgiving.

Tanach

Hallel Part 2: Connecting to G-d with Praise

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This video is class 2 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Tehillim, perek 113, Rabbi Avishai David continues to describe the uniqueness of the Hallel prayer, which parallels the components of praise, request, and thanks found in the Shemoneh Esrai. In this perek, we see both Hashem’s transcendence and His immanence, as tzaddikim can reach tremendous levels of connection with Him.

Tanach

Hallel, Part 3: Perek 114

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This video is class 3 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this shiur (Torah class) on Tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David continues to explore the perakim of Hallel. Perek 114 is the triumphant chapter which describes the joy of the redemption from Egypt, B’tzeit Yisrael Mimitzrayim. Rabbi David explains both the structure and the messages of this beautiful Psalm.

Tanach

Hallel Part 5: Perek 115, Recognizing Hashem’s Blessings

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This video is class 5 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this shiur (Torah class) on Tehillim Perek 115, Rabbi Avishai David continues to explain the mizmor. The Psalm begins on a troubled note, teaching that even in the midst of distress, there is a place for praise and prayer to Hashem. The theme of Hashem’s blessing is found throughout this chapter of Hallel, teaching that the world is available for our enjoyment, as long as we recognize Hashem as the ultimate Ruler of heaven and earth.

Tanach

Hallel, Part 7: Pain and Prayer

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This video is class 7 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Sefer Tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David begins an exposition of perek 116. The Psalm can be divided into two parts, one focusing on a person’s troubles and challenges, while the second focuses on prayers for salvation. Any time of pain or struggle should be a cause of increased prayer and dependence on Hashem.

Tanach

Gratitude and Subservience

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This video is class 8 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Sefer Tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David continues his exposition of Hallel, with an in-depth explanation of the second half of Psalm 116. David Hamelech undergoes a transformation in this perek, from one with gratitude for Hashem’s kindness, to a completely devoted servant who never stops thinking of his Master

Tehillim

Obligation for Praise

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This video is class 9 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Sefer tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David continues his explanation of Hallel, with an overview of perakim 116 and 117. In these perakim, both Jews and non-Jews are exhorted to praise Hashem, each for different reasons.

Tanach

Perek 118, Part 1: The Symphony of Hallel

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This video is class 10 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this shiur (Torah class) on Sefer Tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David continues explicating the chapters of Hallel.  Chapter 118 contains the unique
aspect of repetition and dialogue, as the chazzan reads and the congregation responds to him.  Rabbi David explains this phenomenon as
an echo of the kedusha and kaddish prayers.  The goal of this perek is to increase Kiddush Hashem like the Kaddish and Kedusha in the tefillot.

Tanach

Perek 136: Pinnacle of Thanksgiving

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This video is class 14 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Sefer Tehillim, Rabbi Avishai David explains Psalm 136 as the ultimate prayer of thanksgiving to Hashem. This unique perek lists many of the kindnesses Hashem does for the world, followed by the refrain ‘ki l’olam chasdo’, (for His Kindliness is Eternal).

Tanach

Perek 124: Salvation Within Exile

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This video is class 16 of 18 in the series Tehillim VII.

Rabbi Avishai David explains some of the 15 Shir Hamaalot chapters which were sung on the steps leading to the Temple (Beit Hamikdash). This perek either refers to the Purim miracle, or to general galut. it describes the fierce hatred of our enemies, and the miraculous salvation we merit from Hashem.