Commentaries on the Torah

Our sages reveal that G-d's ultimate objective in creation is that the world be transformed into a home for Him, which means He desires a place of privacy and intimacy. How is this to be reconciled with the more universally expressed intent for creation—that G-d's Kingship be established on earth, when monarchy and intimacy are virtually opposite states?

Chassidus teaches that throughout the month of Elul the Almighty is “unusually accessible” to every Jew as He displays “a smiling countenance and receives everyone with grace and favor.” Then, why are we not enjoined to be joyous?! In answering the question, this talk addresses the obligation to educate children, and reveals a unique kind of joy that lies at the core of the preparatory days of Elul. (Sefer HaSichos 5748, Shoftim)

The Torah commands us to “love G-d with all your heart”. The Hebrew word for 'heart' is spelled with an extra letter: the letter 'vet' appears twice. Our Sages explain that this means that we are to love G-d with both inclinations of the heart, the good (yetzer tov) and the evil (yetzer hara). But how can one possibly love G-d with one's evil inclination?! This class offers three answers in ascending sequence and offers a parallel model for a blissful marriage.

Three components were involved in dividing the land of Israel amongst the tribes: evaluation, lottery and inheritance. This class will explore the spiritual significance of these factors and how they reflect three dimensions in our relationship with G-d. (Likutei Sichos volume 28, Sicha 1)

The sages of the Talmud debate whether a fast day that falls on Shabbat is postponed to Sunday or dismissed entirely. In exploring these views, this class addresses the inner dimension of the commands to delight in the Shabbat and to fast on specific days. (Likkutei Sichot, vol. 33)

Declares G-d, "My flame – the Torah – is in your hands, and your flame – the soul – is in Mine. If you guard Mine, I shall guard yours" (Midrash Devarim 4:4). But is not the soul too "G-d's flame"? In addressing this question, this class offers new insight into why the Divine soul, which is naturally drawn and connected to G-d, requires Torah altogether? (Maamar Bahaalotecha 5729)

In explaining why the sacrifices that a Jew was obligated to offer in the Temple in honor of Shavuos were not offered on the holyday itself but during the weekdays which follow, this class offers insight into the nature of G-d’s choice of the Children of Israel.

Soon after the Jewish people arrived at Mount Sinai, the final stages to receive the Torah began to unfold in earnest. This talk explores two views on the nature of these special days and what exactly is required of us as we prepare to receive the Torah anew this year. (Sefer Hasichos 5750)

The inner, spiritual meaning of the commandment to cover with earth the blood of ritually slaughtered wild game or birds. (Based on Likutei Sichos Vol. 37 p.48)

The sages declare that when the first day of the seven-week Omer countdown begins on a Sunday, then the count is perfect and complete. But surely the 49-day count is perfect regardless of which day in the week it starts? In answering this question, this class addresses two kinds of relationships, and where perfection really begins.