Torah Classes

Based on the fifth chapter of the maamar Basi Legani, the Chassidic discourse of the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe for the 10th of Shevat.

After tracing the origins and relevance of the New Year for Trees, Rabbi Kaplan explores the special significance of the bitter olive and its profound symbolism for us to persevere and flourish as Jews.

The bitter olive is artfully cured in many creative ways to offer all types of tasty olives. Join Rabbi Chana Gans for a tasting presentation on how he produces his own line of delicious olives and shares his experience in olive curing.

Learn the special messages conveyed the in weekly Haftarah and the profound connections between the weekly parsha and its related Haftorah.

Decode the successive layers of meaning embedded in the classic teachings of Ethics of Our Fathers (Pirkei Avot), from the basic understanding to the more mystical interpretation—encompassing five levels of meaning.

Ethics of the Fathers is a veritable treasure-trove of wisdom, a nearly two thousand year old guide for self-refinement and character development. This masterpiece of Jewish ethics is a collection of valuable advice from the sages of antiquity concerning basic life-skills such as exercising leadership, dealing with others, and personal character refinement. In this series we take a practical and relevant approach in studying this celebrated text. We’ll examine the wisdom of Pirkei Avot through the lens of the classical commentators as well as the Kabbalists, to gain an even more profound understanding of its many life-lessons.

As we approach Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, join Rabbi Sacks on an intellectual journey to explore the concept and deep meanings of teshuvah (repentance).

In addition to sounding the shofar, the Talmud discusses the role of reciting verses of kingship, remembrance, and shofar. Join an in-depth analysis of the Talmudic discussion and two different understandings of the relation between these verses and the shofar.

Archeologists recently discovered a seal or bulla of King Hezekiah near the Temple Mount in Jerusalem, which dates back to biblical times in the 8th century BCE. The timing of this incredible new discovery appears to have tremendous significance, and is connected to the signet ring mentioned in the Torah.

This Kabbala series presents authentic Torah ideas from classic Jewish texts and the teachings of Jewish mysticism.

The Torah’s advice on motivation and inspiration in our daily Jewish practice.

The Mishnah enumerates four different New Year dates pertinent in Jewish law—one being the 15th of Shevat. Learn the Talmudic definition and legal relevance of these Rosh Hashanahs.

Discover soul stirring insights into the incredible energy and significance of this little understood day known as the New Year for Trees! Learn why we celebrate a special Rosh Hashanah for trees and its profound relevance to us today.

For close to two thousand years the mitzvah of Hakhel hasn’t been observed, yet no formal observance was instituted to recall this biblical commandment. Today, more than ever, channeling the powerful Hakhel spirit is crucial to confront the frightening challenges and adversaries in our times.

Forty years ago, in the summer of 1976, the Rebbe identified 12 Torah passages he believed should be the first Torah ideas taught to all Jewish children. The Rebbe’s inspired view was that these passages together form the bedrock of Torah theology, especially relevant in today’s day and age. He maintained that it was very important to equip Jewish children with the spiritual strength needed to face the current challenges by ensuring that they internalized and memorize these 12 passages. But what is the significance of these passages and why were they chosen? Join Rabbi Mendel Kaplan as he explores each passage and uncovers layers of rich meaning behind these pithy statements.

The teachings of chassidus look beyond the surface of the terrible destruction of the Holy Temple and the subsequent exile, which we mourn during the 3 weeks, and finds the hidden good embedded inside—offering insight into why they’ll ultimately be transformed into joyous holidays in the times of Moshiach.

A deeper look at the special nature of the Jew as being chosen by G-d.

Our proverbial New Year for Trees is celebrated by most Sephardic Jews (and more recently by many Israelis of Ashkenazi descent as well) with an elaborate fruit-centric sacred ceremony colloquially known as the “Tu B’Shevat Seder.” It’s comprised of carefully choreographed chanting of Scripture and Rabbinic texts, accompanied by an assortment of fruit and wine, which are consumed in an orderly fashion. But why invoke unique Passover verbiage for this fruitful observance? This fascinating presentation sheds light on some of the origins and profound meanings of this enigmatic Torah tradition.

Explore choice passages from the Midrash on the parsha, and how they correlate with halacha and chassidus.

Understanding the origin of disputes in Jewish law and how they evolved, and the process by which they’re resolved.

The powerful mitzvah of mezuzah contains much spiritual significance. Learn the basics of affixing the mezuzah on the doorposts of your home.

Learn the unique attributes of the three holy Temples, and why the future temple will be eternal.

Learn why the Holy Temple was specifically built on an incline and not on level ground. Next, we explore the sacred vessels of the Temple: are they to be viewed as parts of a greater whole or of individual value? This insight conveys a profound truth in the role of the individual vis-à-vis the community.

Learn the mystical dimension of the Jewish months embedded in the designated Hebrew name, mazal, tribe, attribute and more.

There’s more to the mitzvah of hosting guests than providing food, drink and lodging.

Analyzing the true meaning of ‘Bitachon’, placing one’s trust in G-d, which goes beyond having faith in G-d. The analysis begins with a closer look at the biblical narratives wherein Moses and Jacob seem to display a lack of complete trust in the Al-mighty. (Based on a talk of the Rebbe in Likkutei Sichos vol.36 p.1)

The relationship and tension between the legal system and spiritual values in Torah.

Traditionally the mystical quest has focused on ascent from the world and supernal union (Devekut) with G-d. In Chabad, however, the focus is shifted to the attainment of self-effacement (Bittul).

Chabad's brand of contemplative prayer should not be thought of merely as a solitary spiritual exercise, but rather as an activity that can transform society and change the world.

A reexamination of chapter 32 of Tanya and of the centrality of social questions is Chabad teachings.

Prior to the giving of the Torah, G-d instructs Moses: "Speak to the house of Jacob, and tell the sons of Israel" (Exodus 19:3). The "house of Jacob," our Sages explain, are the women; "the sons of Israel," the men. Explore this special feminine role on five levels of understanding.

This three-part series examines in great depth the Torah sources related to the questions on celebrating a Jewish birthday.

The megillah is called the Scroll of Esther, emphasizing her role in the miracle of Purim. Explore the special feminine connection to Purim on five levels of understanding.

A three-part series about the mechanics, mindfulness, nuts and bolts of the Seder’s legal intricacies so that everything gets done right!

What is the precedent for celebrating a birthday in Torah? Learn its significance on five levels of understanding.

A how-to presentation on effectively communicating the 7 Noahide Laws with profound clarity; illuminating foundational principles of Torah Judaism with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. Learn how you can become an inspiration; fulfilling our age-old sacred calling of being a “light onto the nations” and doing your part to catalyze world peace.

What is the difference between the terms, Moshiach and Ben-Dovid, which the Sages use to describe the redeemer? These names reflect differing approaches to the character of Moshiach.

An introduction to the Kabbalistic concept of five levels of the soul.

Every Jew possesses a divine soul, which is called a Neshamah. How do we access the soul within us? This lecture presents a closer look into the inner workings of the soul based on the teachings of Kabbala as elucidated in chassidus.

What is the objective of Torah: the benefit of man or a divine purpose?

In the wake of this past Shabbat's horrific massacre, Jewish people the world over are reeling in pain; feeling profound vulnerability, frustration and even anger. How does a faithful Jew react and respond to evil perpetrated and its tragic consequences? Here are Torah-true perspectives – drawing on a range of traditional sources and authentic Jewish teachings.

A scholarly rumination addressing Sifrei Kodesh (sacred manuscripts and books)—the overriding theme of the contemporary Chassidic festival “Hei Tevet - Didan Notzach.” By tracing back to the earliest sources, this careful analysis of Torah fascinating facts, remarkable rules and enduring “holy text” etiquette, conclusively proves that books are far more than sources of knowledge.

The ninth of Kislev marks the birth and passing of the second Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Dovber of Lubavitch. The tenth of Kislev celebrates his liberation from Czarist imprisonment. Learn what’s uniquely special about his life and the connection to the parsha of Vayeitzei.

Analyzing the Torah’s narrative of Moses’ fear immediately following the episode of smiting the Egyptian who beat a Hebrew slave. This offers great insight into the true meaning of trust in G-d, and how it differs from faith.

This class discusses why it’s so important to give kids a proper Jewish education and offers perspectives on what contributes to a healthy and strong education.

Why the 19th of Kislev is celebrated in the latter half of the month, unlike the major biblical holidays, which are in the first half. The sun and moon relationship offers insight.

G-d tells Moses that he didn’t reveal the special divine name of the Tetragrammaton to the forefathers. Discover the inner meaning of the hidden and revealed names.

A closer look at each of the ten plagues on five different levels understanding.

Timely rules, regulations, and traditional observances related to the Jewish holidays and special times on our unique calendar. This series endeavors to trace customs back to their early sources, probe the philosophical jurisprudence associated therein and uncover the mystical perspective laden within.

A closer look at what Kabbalah is all about, its role in Torah, and what the teachings of Chassiuds add to the understanding of Jewish mysticism.

A profound mystical exploration of the three Hebrew letters in the word Korach, which constitute a corrupted form of the holy letter Hei, and how this all relates to the fallacy of Korach’s argument.

What constitutes Teshuva and how is the relationship with G-d restored? To properly return in earnest, we must probe the deep mystical meaning of teshuva.

Discover the profound mystical secrets of gratitude in the Jewish tradition and how this fresh perspective truly enriches our lives.

What does the Torah say about angels? Explore a variety of Biblical sources, as well as Midrashic and Kabbalistic texts that clarify the Jewish belief in celestial beings, and their deeper meaning and significance.

The book of Ezekiel cryptically describes the celestial beings ministering on high. Discover the attributes of the primary angels and their unique qualities as elucidated in classic Jewish sources and the kabbalah.

Are guns the problem, or the solution? Do we need more gun rights, or more gun control? Learn a Torah-based perspective on this controversial issue.

What is the meaning of Satan in Judaism?

Explore the significance in doing a mitzvah with joy, and moreover, the importance for a Jew to always be happy, as highlighted in chassidus.

Discover how to master your emotions and attain self-control by understanding the deeper meaning of the Jewish ritual of handwashing in the morning.

Learn layers of meaning all about the practice of Kiddush Levanah, the prayer to sanctify the new moon towards the beginning of each month.

Many think that Chassidus is an explanation to Kabbalah, but in truth, Kabbalah helps explain Chassidus – discover how.

What does Judaism say about a pandemic? What have the great Jewish sages and mystics taught throughout the ages, and what insight can we glean for our times?

For the first time in our modern Jewish history, virtually all Synagogues around the world will be shut on the Final Day of Pesach. Never in living memory has nobody gone to Shul to recite the sacred memorial prayer of Yizkor and honor the eternal souls of parents and grandparents. How are we to behave?! This foundational presentation is a must watch for anyone who is distressed and seeking real answers…

Does faith ever make you uncomfortable? Rabbi Manis Friedman tackles all this head-on and addresses the fundamental beliefs and ideas of Judaism.

The magic and majesty of the major Jewish holidays.

Exploring fundamentals in Jewish thought through the lens of a Chassidic discourse of the Rebbe (“VeNachah Alav” 5714).

A fascinating discussion on the considerations and halachic guidelines for safely returning to synagogue following the pandemic.

Join Rabbi Levy Zirkind, senior rabbi in the kosher field, as he merges the diametrically apposing worlds of kosher, medicine and halacha.

For the Rebbe’s yarhtzeit, we study the last booklet he handed us to learn.

Discover the mystical dimension of the Great Flood and the story of Noach from the teachings of Chassidus.

A detailed journey into the mystical meaning of bris milah, the mitzvah of circumcision.

A profound exploration of the mystical text from Zohar known as Pasach Eliyahu, which details emanation of Ten Sefiros from the oneness of G-d.

Explore the spiritual dimension of Yud Tes Kislev—the Chassidic festival celebrating the liberation of the first Chabad rebbe—through the lens of the various names describing this special day by our holy rebbes.

What is a Moshiach state of consciousness, as we endeavor to view everything through the lens of Geulah (Redemption) and rise beyond our exilic state? (This class is from a Neshei Chabad webcast on learning about Geulah)

This series introduces the novice to Jewish observance so one can experience Judaism comfortably and confidently.

Get an understanding of the weekly reading from the Prophets, known as the haftorah, its connection to the parsha, and the beautiful messages to take away.

The book of Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs) is the ultimate love song between G-d and the Jewish People. Gain a taste of this most sacred book of Scripture.

Explore the deeper significance of a Brit Milah specifically as an infant as illuminated with the circumcision of Yitzckak.

The Torah describes in great detail the mission of Avraham’s trusted servant Eliezer to find a bride for Yitzchak, his master’s son. Explore the precise role of Eliezer, the greater significance of this mission and how this relates to all of us in our own life mission.

What’s the deeper meaning of Yitzchok’s wells and their correlation to the three Holy Temples?