In this shiur we take a break from the regular Tefilah classes in honor of the high holidays, and we focus on the concept of Teshuva. We review the earlier approaches of the Rishonim and delve into a deeper approach suggested by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz ZT"L.

In this shiur we discuss how the Selichot today are recited, and how the contemporary practices came to be.

In this shiur we study the early history and development of the Selichot and how they evolved into the customs that we are familiar with today in the month of Elul.

In this shiur we discuss the major Payytanim of France, and some of their historical background. We also take a look at a few of their Piyyutim and genres.

In this shiur we discuss how the Italian Payytanim influenced the Ashkenaz Siddur, with the major figures being Eliah Bar Shemayah of Bari and Binyamin Ben Zerach.

In this shiur we discuss the Piyyutim of the famous Chassidei Ashkenaz, with the broader context of their lives and times.

In this shiur we learn about the Payytanim of the Second and Third Crusades, and give the background of their lives and context for the Piyyutim (and specifically Kinnot) that they wrote.

In this shiur we study the Piyyut and the personalities of the Payytanim of the First Crusade.

In this shiur we introduce the topic of Ashkenazic Piyyut and study the history of how many persecutions and especially the Crusades shaped this family of Piyyut.

In this shiur we learn about the life and times of the first Payytan of Ashkenaz, R' Shimon ben Yitzchak. We then study some of his Piyyut and poetic style.