The Netivot Israel Class on Tefilah

In this class we discuss the middle section of the Yotzer Beracha, known as the Kedusha of Yotzer. We speak about its ancient origins and compare it with the rest of the data we have about Kedusha in general.

In this class we introduce the Beracha of Yotzer Ohr with a broader discussion about the Berachot of Keriat Shema, studying their purpose and evolution throughout the ages.

In this class we explore the Kaddish and Barechu section of the morning prayer. We search for early evidence of this doxology and we analyze various theories regarding its evolution.

In this class we discuss the closing blessing of the Pesukei d'Zimra: Yishtabach. We try to unravel it's origins by comparing it to other similar blessings.

In this class we study the development of the Pesukei d'Zimra in the Modern Era, and we also discern which additions or innovations are truly Modern.

In this class we try to unravel the origins of medieval additions to the core 6 Psalms of the Pesukei d'Zimra.

In this class we search for the early history of Baruch She'Amar to try and discover when, why, and how it was composed; and then we study a bit of its evolution.

In this class we explore the early history of Pesukei d’Zimra, from ancient times until the middle ages. Correction: R' Yose was a Tanna of the 2nd century, not the 3rd.

In this class we study the long history of the word Amen, and how this response developed into an integral part of Jewish liturgy.

In this class we survey the history of the custom of saying the Mourner's Kaddish and its development throughout the ages. We use this to introduce the Halachic discussion of whether women can say Kaddish. Spoiler alert: Yes, yes they can.