Commentaries on the Torah

Moshiach has to be a scion of the House of David of the ‘Kingdom of Judah’. But why can he not be a descendant of the ‘Kingdom of Joseph’? Indeed even Judah bowed to Joseph acknowledging his authority? In this class a profound debate in the Talmud is evoked that provides the key to the answer and, more significantly, reveals the unique contribution that our generation must give in bringing about the final redemption. (Based on the Maamar V’Avdi Dovid, Achron shel Pesach 5746)

Based on the last discourse of the Previous Rebbe and our Rebbe’s complimentary discourses from the year 5718 (1958), this class explores the mystical significance of the Hebrew letter Hey and its powerful message for creating the ultimate home.

“And you shall love G-d your L-rd with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your might”. This class explains these three loves and how to attain them, in both our relationship with G-d and with our life’s partner.

"And it will come to pass on that day that the great shofar will sound...” The prophecy goes on to describe the in-gathering of Jews 'lost' and 'dispersed' in exile, as they return to Jerusalem in the final redemption. This class will explore the profound meaning of the “sound of the great shofar” and will reveal the startling and exhilarating secret that the sound has already begun. (Based on the Maamar V'hayah Bayom Hahu 5728)

The saddest period in the Jewish calendar, when we mourn the destruction of the Holy Temple – amongst a litany of other national tragedies – is commonly referred to as 'The Three Weeks'. Yet, our Sages referred to this period as '21 Days'? The answer to this innocuous question reveals an astounding new depth to both the mourning period and its inevitable resolution. (Based on Sefer Hasichos 5750)

The first teaching of the fifth chapter of 'Ethics of Our Fathers' states that the primary reason why G-d created the world in the manner in-which He did is to 'exact retribution from the wicked'. This statement appears puzzling and indeed disturbing. This class will peel back the layers in light of the teachings of Chassidus and reveal its powerfully loving message.

Our Sages declare that Korach and his followers are the symbol of divisiveness that "will not ultimately endure"; whereas the dissenting views of Hillel and Shamai represent a virtuous difference of opinion "that will ultimately endure". But why would argument of any kind, especially one that endures forever, be considered a virtue?! In answering this question, this class traces the origins of all conflicts and reveals the ultimate resolution to them all. (Based on the Maamar Vayikach Korach 5727)

What is the inner connection between the incident of the spies and the commandment concerning the libation of wine on the altar, issued by G-d directly thereafter? In answering this question, this class explores the mystical power of Tefillin and its effect on the world. (Based on the maamar L’havin Inyan Parshas Hanesachim 5747)

In this class, the story of an encounter between an Israeli army officer and a Russian immigrant in the heady aftermath of the Six Day War becomes a symbol for Judaism's ultimate mission-statement. Explore the purpose of life on three progressively deeper levels: from the perspective of (a) Torah's outer dimension, (b) its inner dimension, and (c) its essence.

A deeper understanding of why we have three matzos on the Seder plate and drink four cups of wine. Discover how the spiritual dimensions of the Exodus reflect the difference between men and women in light of Chassidus. (Based on Lukutei Sichos vol. 26, Parshas Va’eira)