Commentaries on the Torah

On Rosh Hashana we read in the Haftorah about the birth of the prophet Samuel. Childless for many years, one year on Rosh Hashana, his mother Chana offered a prayer that elicited the Divine blessing resulting in his birth. The Talmud states that Chana's prayer is the model which all prayer aught emulate. This class will explain how to access the awesome power of prayer any time and especially on Rosh Hashana. (Likutei Sichos vol. 29, p.182)

How the giving of the Torah forever transformed the nature of marriage and simultaneously the relationship between G-d and His people. (Likutei Sichos vol. 39, Ki Seitzei: Sicha 3)

Admission of guilt is tantamount to the testimony of one hundred witnesses. This is true only of monetary obligations. If however, one admitted in a court of law to a transgression that carries a penalty to be applied to the person himself, such a confession is of no consequence. This class will explain the reason for this discrepancy and will explore the layers of the nature of ownership. (Likutei Sichos vol. 34, Sicha 2)

When giving charity, clearly one should give wholeheartedly and pleasantly. But how critical to the mitzvah of tzedakah is the manner in which it is given? Maimonides and Rashi offer differing views. This class analyzes their positions and reveals the essence of charity. (Likutei Sichos vol. 34, Sicha 2)

The Torah (Deuteronomy 10:17) tells us that G-d “does not show favor, nor does He take bribes.” Yet in the Midrash our sages declare that there is a way to bribe Him! This class reveals the secret to bribing G-d. (Likkutei Sichos, vol. 34, p. 59)

On the 15th of Av young men and women would meet in the vineyards of Jerusalem for the purpose of finding their soul-mate. The beautiful girls among them would declare that a young man aught set his eyes to beauty alone. The Talmud does not censure them, even mildly. But surely, as Scripture states, "Charm is false and beauty has no substance"?! (Likutei Sichos vol. 19, p. 80)

When appointing judges over the people of Israel, Moses confesses that the one quality he did not find in any of them was 'understanding'. But elsewhere the Torah relates that 'men of understanding' helped fashion the Sanctuary and its vessels? In resolving the contradiction, this class analyzes the nature of understanding and offers new insight into the remedy for our current exile. (Likutei Sichos vol. 34, Devorim, sichah 2)

The Torah prohibits constructing the Temple with wood; only stone and brick are admissible. Yet the high priest's chamber, located in the Temple proper, was made of wood. This class will present an analysis of the subject from both halachic and spiritual viewpoints. (Likutei Sichos vol 28, Parshas Massei)

This class will address the halachic and spiritual dynamics of the expanded Land of Israel in the messianic era with respect to the tribal allotments. (Likutei Sichos, vol. 38, sichah 1)

How Korach, who championed equality, became the symbol of divisiveness. And how the Divine punishments visited upon Korach and his band are the natural consequences of their failed rebellion. (Likutei Sichos vol. 18, Sicha 3)