Commentaries on the Torah

This class will explore the significance of a single point, and how that makes all the difference in the world.

The final discourse of the Sixth Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak before his passing in 1950, conveys the mission statement for the new generation and provides the guidelines by which to achieve the stated objective. The entire discourse contains twenty chapters. Our Rebbe, each year on the anniversary of Sixth Rebbe’s passing, would elaborate sequentially on a chapter. Accordingly, this year the focus is on chapter six (for the fourth consecutive cycle). This class will share some of the Rebbe's illuminating commentary on this fascinating chapter.

Our sages tell us that on Shabbos we are endowed with an “additional soul.” Upon her departure at the conclusion of Shabbos, we inhale the aroma of spices in order to “restore” our soul, which pines after the additional soul that has now left. But what is this additional soul? And why is it unique to Shabbos and not Yom Tov (festivals)? In answering these questions, this class will offer insight into the Havdalah service at the conclusion of Shabbos, and into the very nature of Shabbos itself. (Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol.31, pp. 191ff)

The menorah of the Holy Temple, the Shabbat candles and the Chanukah lights—three movements in the divinely-ordained mission of illuminating all of existence. This class will explore these stages on a historical and personal level.

Inasmuch that there was enough oil for one day, the fact the oil lasted for 8 days means that the Chanukah miracle was actually only 7 days. Why then do we celebrate for 8 days? This class offers a novel and inspiring answer.

The world, our Sages tell us, stands on three pillars—Torah, Avodah (Prayer) and Acts of Kindness. This class will explore the inner dimension and effect of these 'pillars', both on the individual and the world at large. (Based on the maamor Podoh B'sholom 5716)

How a Jew begins his/her day and what that tells us about the nature of a Jew and his/her mission in this world. An exploration of the four levels of reality.

A deeper look at the biblical story of how the prophet Elisha saves an impoverished widow and her sons from the clutches of a merciless creditor.

With the Great Flood the Almighty returned the world to its original state when "the spirit of God hovered above the waters". In analyzing a fascinating passage from the Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 5:1) that speaks of 'mute inhabitants' and 'intellectual inhabitants', this class addresses one of life's big questions and offers a surprisingly refreshing answer. (Based on the Maamor Bereishis Boro 5727)

A phrase in the book of Daniel provides insight into the uniqueness of this year when the portions of Neztavim and Vayelech are divided—one read before Rosh Hashanah and the other after it. (Sefer Hasichos 5752)