Understanding Prophecy

Prophetic Actions

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This video is class 8 of 30 in the series Nature of Prophesy.

In this Torah class (shiur) on Nevua, Prophesy, Rabbi Avishai David presents various views of the commentators on whether actions taken together with a prophesy were literally performed, or were prophetic visions. Rabbi David describes the opposing opinions of Ramban and the Rambam, and the Abarbanel’s compromise position.

Tanach

Perek 148, Part 1

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This video is class 8 of 14 in the series Tehillim III.

In his explanation of Tehillim Perek 148, Rabbi Avishai David extrapolates on the duality of the heavenly bodies and earthly bodies in the mizmor praising G-d, and he speaks about the parallel structure of the two segments. The praise is initiated by Klal Yisrael, the Jewish people, and the heavenly bodies respond to that praise. Rabbi David further discusses the mizmor’s connection to Ashrei.

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

Tanach

Perek 80, Part 1: G-d’s Vineyard

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This video is class 7 of 16 in the series Tehillim V.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Tehillim, Rabbi David teaches mizmor 80, which describes the Jewish Nation as a vineyard that has been broken into and trampled, and begs Hashem to tend to His vineyard again. This perek has many thematic and linguistic comparisons with mizmor 44 and 79, which are pointed out and explained in the class.

Yirmiyahu

Perakim 21 and 22: Justice and Charity

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This video is class 7 of 17 in the series Yirmiyahu III.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Sefer Yirmiyahu, Rabbi Avishai David compares the content and structure of perek 21, which is addressed to the king, and perek 22, which is addressed to the king and the nation at the Beit Hamikdash. Rabbi David quotes the works of Rabbi Joseph Ber Soloveitchik and Rabbi Aharon Soloveitchik as he defines the nuances within justice, as demonstrated with the many terms for justice which are mentioned in the Torah.

Tanach

Perek 95 Part I

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This video is class 7 of 12 in the series Tehillim IV.

In this class on Tehillim, chapter 95, Rabbi Avishai David speaks about the structure of the mizmor, famous as the opening Psalm in the prayer of Kabbalat Shabbat. Rabbi David explains how the two segments of the mizmor reflect the dual nature of Hashem’s Kingdom; universal on the one hand, and particular to the Jewish people on the other hand. Rabbi David also shows how this mizmor also relates to people traveling up to the Beit Hamikdash to serve Hashem.

Tehillim

Perek 121

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This video is class 7 of 12 in the series Tehillim I.

In continuing with the theme of trust, Rabbi Avishai David discusses Tehillim Perek 121, which describes the ascent of closeness between Hashem and the “boteach”, one who trusts in Him.

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.

Hilchot Shabbat

The Prohibition of Tofer/ Sewing: Tofer Demonstrations

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This video is class 7 of 25 in the series Shabbat Scenarios.

In this Torah shiur (class) on the practical applications of Hilchot Shabbat, Rabbi Shimon Isaacson introduces the Melacha (prohibited activity) of Tofer (sewing), and demonstrates practical ramifications of this prohibition. This class utilizes actual items that one may want to attach to each other on Shabbat, and discusses permitted and prohibited methods of doing so.