Commentaries on the Torah

Much has been written about the wise son's question in the Haggadah, for his question appears to betray nothing but ignorance. This talk reveals the enormous profundity of the wise son's question—a question we all need to ask. (Based on the maamar Ki Yishalcha Bincha 5738—a chassidic discourse of the Rebbe, which upon publication, he personally distributed to thousands of men, women and children)

The ancient Biblical skin-affliction known as Tzaraat has not been manifest for millennia for it only visits people of lofty spiritual stature. Yet our Sages state that this affliction comes as consequence/punishment for the sin of lashon hora—gossip. Clearly, one who is guilty of gossip is not on an elevated spiritual plane! How can we reconcile these two statements? In resolving the apparent contradiction this class will explore the potent power of speech. (Likutei Sichos vol. 22)

In our daily prayers we repeatedly quote the praises and songs that the angels offer the Almighty on High. These visions of the celestial beings have been transmitted to us by the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel. This class will explain the meaning of these songs and why in our prayers, we - mere mortals of flesh and blood - invoke the compositions of the angels. (Based on the Purim maamor of 5714 / 1954)

In resolving an apparent difficulty in one of the laws of sacrifices as it is expressed by Maimonides in his Mishneh Torah, this class will address the meaning of the sacrifices in the Temple and, in so doing, will shed light on the critical difference between men and women in their spiritual makeup and in their service of G-d. (Likutei Sichos vol. 32)

In last week’s class, the basic human needs of food, clothing and shelter were explored on multi-levels: physical, psychological, spiritual and the Divine. This class will continue to develop this theme together with the implications and lessons for our daily lives. (Based on Maamar Vayakhel Moshe 5714)

On Shabbat work is forbidden. But what defines work? The Torah defines work as any of the activities that were required for the construction or function of the Mishkan, the Divine Sanctuary. This class will explain the deeper connection between Shabbat and the Mishkan, and thereby outline the Divine template for a meaningful life. (Maamar, Vayakhel Moshe 5714)

The uppermost covering of the Divine Sanctuary, the Mishkan, was the hide of a creature the Torah identifies as the 'Tachash'. The Sages disagree as to what type of creature it was, but all agree that it existed only then and that its hide was multicolored. This class will address Rashi's commentary on the subject and reveal the profound spiritual message contained therein. (Likutei Sichos vol. 31)

The primary material necessary for building the Divine Sanctuary was cedar wood. Now, since the Jews were journeying in a hostile desert, how could they possibly procure the required cedar wood, and in formidable quantity?! This class will solve the mystery, and in so doing will offer an inspirational message for our times. (Likutei Sichos vol. 31 Terumah 2)

The very first law the Torah records after the account of the giving of the Torah is the law of the Jewish bondsman. This is most puzzling for a number of reasons including the fact that the Torah discourages the ‘acquisition’ of servants, and in fact historically it was an unusual occurrence. Why then would this subject be the Torah’s first choice? This talk offers a compelling answer, relevant to all. (Likutei Sichos vol.16)

Jethro, father in law to Moses, advised Moses to create a judicial hierarchy to adjudicate the Children of Israel, for otherwise the burden of being the peoples' sole judge would clearly 'wear you out'. With G-d's consent the system was indeed put in place. But how could Moses himself not see the obvious need for these measures?! This class delves into the unique relationship that Moses has with his people. (Likutei Sichos vol. 16)