Commentaries on the Torah

In analyzing Maimonides' description of the future transformation of the current fast days into days of celebration in the Messianic era, this class sheds new light on the nature of things to come. (Likutei Sichos volume 15, p. 412)

The story of the soul’s journey as it parallels the three-part process by which the Land of Israel was divided amongst the twelve tribes. (Based on the maamor Ach B’goral 5735)

Once the Messianic Era begins — world peace, universal enlightenment, an end to suffering and eternal life — one would assume that having accomplished his mission the Moshiach's central role would no longer be required. Yet this is not the case, to the contrary! In clarifying this mystery, this class will present an overview of G-d's objective in creation as revealed by the Sages over the millennia and how our understanding of His purpose undergoes an evolving ever-deepening appreciation, layer beneath layer, until the final curtain on G-d's very Essence is drawn. (This class is in honor of the Rebbe's 20th Yahrtzeit anniversary)

Korach’s audacious claim that Moses and Aaron self-appointed themselves to positions of leadership was put to the test with an invitation to offer the sacred incense together with Aaron. Moses then petitions G-d not to accept their offering. But why would Moses make such a request if he knew with absolute certainty that Aaron’s appointment would be vindicated by G-d? The answer lies in a deeper understanding of the interplay between the individual and community. (Likutei Sichos , volume 33)

Moses had instructed the twelve spies to bring back specimens of the produce of the land of Israel to show to the Children of Israel. Strangely, Joshua and Calev – the only ones to remain faithful to Moses and the mission – did not comply and returned empty-handed. In explaining the justification for their omission, this class will offer a timely lesson on the nature of intent versus action. (Likutei Sichos vol. 38)

If one had a disturbingly ominous dream, Halachah allows one to fast even on a Sabbath or Festival – not withstanding the obligation to feast on these days – since the person is distressed over his dream, he would derive 'pleasure' from fasting and not from eating. The one exception to the rule is Shavuot—the Festival of the Giving of the Torah. On Shavuot one must eat! This appears strange, given that all the other festivals celebrate a physical, bodily salvation, whereas Shavuot marks the giving of the Torah—a profoundly spiritual event?! The answer explores the nature of pleasure and the essence of Shavuot. (Likutei Sichos vol. 23 pp. 27)

In interpreting the verse in the Song of Songs, "If only you would be to me a brother", our Sages differ as to whether our request of G-d is to treat us as Yosef treated his brothers who had sold him or as Yosef treated his innocent younger brother Binyamin. This class will reconcile the two views and in so doing will address the contrasting virtues of the righteous (tzadik) and the penitent (baal teshuvah) and where they ultimately converge. (Based on the maamar "Kedoshim Tiheyu" Sefer Mamorim Toras Menachem vol. 3 p. 249)

The last Mishnah of chapter 7 of Tractate Mikvaot deals with how to overcome physical challenges that one may encounter when attempting to successfully achieve ritual immersion in a mikveh. This class will reveal the spiritual dimension of this teaching and, accordingly, its message of how to overcome the inevitable obstacles to personal purity. (Based on Sefer Hasichos 5750 p. 695)

The 24th chapter of Tractate Keilim deals with laws of ritual impurity (tumah) as it applies to various vessels, foremost amongst them the different type of shields—for combat, for training purposes and for sport. This class will address the spiritual dimension of these laws and their personal application in the service of G-d. (Based on Sefer Hasichos 5750, p. 695)

The Kabbalah reveals that in the month of Iyar, G-d’s healing powers are uniquely manifest. This class will explore the nature of this extraordinary period and how to access this divine blessing. (Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 32, and other sources.)