Commentaries on the Torah

Only after a week of eating the manna in the desert did the Jewish people give it a name. Why did they wait that long? In answering this question, this class will explain the deeper connection between manna and the Sabbath, inasmuch that the Jewish people were first introduced to the observance of Shabbat in relation to the way in which they were to partake of the manna. (Likutei Sichos vol. 31)

Before his passing, Jacob blessed his sons. His youngest son, Benjamin, is praised and blessed: "Benjamin, like a wolf snatches his prey." Strange as this blessing appears on the surface, Rashi's explanations leaves us even more bewildered. This talk will illuminate Rashi's commentary and deliver a powerful message for our times. (Likutei Sichos, vol. 25)

When saying the Amidah prayer – the essence of the prayer service – the worshipper is enjoined to pray in hushed tones. This class explores the various reasons for this law and offers insight into the meaning of prayer. (Likutei Sichos, vol. 35)

There are two views as to when the Jews completely defeated the Greeks. One view maintains that it was on the 25th of Kislev – the day that Chanukah begins. The other view posits that the final victory occurred the day prior and the Chanukah celebration marks the first day of actual freedom. This class will explore both opinions and reveal their timely message. (Toras Menachem, Chanukah 5748)

The three patriarchs Abraham, Isaac and Jacob all encountered the future site of the Beit Hamikdash, the Holy Temple. However the description of that location differed for each Patriarch. To Abraham it was a mountain, to Isaac a field, and to Jacob a house. This class will explore the significance of these differences and the relevance to our times. (Likutei Sichos vol. 15)

Jacob and Esau wrestled with each-other while yet in their mother's womb. Their struggle, explain our Sages, was over possession of both this world – the physical, and the hereafter – the spiritual. But why the battle over both worlds?! Jacob desires the world of holiness and spirituality and Esau the sensual, material world. So what's to fight about? Each to his own! (Likutei Sichos vol 20)

There are three places in the land of Israel that the nations of the world are compelled to admit belong to the Jews: the Cave of Machpelah in Hebron, The Temple Mount in Jerusalem, and Joseph’s Tomb in Shechem, for all three were purchased outright. The first such acquisition was the cave in Hebron by Abraham. This class will explain why Providence ordained that Hebron be the first location where Jewish ownership is established. (Likutei Sichos vol. 25)

There are three traits, declares the Talmud, that characterize the Jewish people. An analysis of these qualities from the differing perspectives of the Jerusalem and Babylonian Talmuds. (Likkutei Sichos, vol. 30)

This commandment was addressed to both Adam and again to Noah and his offspring. More than just a repetition of a previous obligation, G-d reveals to Noah the extraordinary virtue of bearing many children. An analysis of Maimonides' treatment of the obligation to populate the world. (Likutei Sichos vol. 30)

The purpose of fasting on Yom Kippur is to induce a contrite and humbled heart before the Supreme Judge. If so, why if one falls weak fasting and cannot properly repent and pray, is he to nevertheless complete the fast, even if it entails sleeping through Neilah?! This class will reveal the essence of Yom Kippur, resolving this and other paradoxes of the holiest day of the year. (Based on Likutei Sichos volumes 3, 29 and 32.)