Mishnaic Sages

Rabbi Judah the Prince (circa 135–219 CE), also known as Rabbeinu Hakadosh, is credited with having compiled statements of earlier sages to form the Mishnah, when the Oral Law was in peril of being forgotten. In this class we also go through Maimonides’ l...

How and why the Oral Torah came to be put in writing for the first time.

Ever feel like you don’t know enough Torah to teach anyone? Rabban Yochanan ben Zakkai saw it differently: If you know even one line more than someone else, you already have something the world needs. Through his dramatic escape from Jerusalem and his vis...

Is it better to be truthful or is it better to make others feel good at the expense of being honest? Explore the two perspectives of Hillel and Shammai. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Terumah)

Hillel and Shammai were two great sages of the Talmudic era, known for their opposing views on nearly every issue under the sun. From the proper way to dance before a bride to how best to set a table, we will study the views of these incredible figures th...

The importance and uniqueness of Jewish education. How the Mishnah, arranged by Rabbi Yehuda Hanasi, shaped generations of Jewish children.

The Academy of Hillel says that the optimum manner to light the Chanukah candles is to light one the first night, adding a candle each subsequent night of the holiday. The Academy of Shamai maintain that the desired method is to kindle 8 flames on the fir...

An exploration of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai's halachik approach and how it mirrors his mystical outlook. Examples from the laws of Muktzah and intention in regards to work on Shabbos. Also exploring Aggadic passages of the Talmud about Rabbi Shimon.

In this mystifying tale of the Talmud we encounter the miraculous personage of Rabbi Chanina ben Dosa, who prays for the rain to cease. Learn the hidden meaning to this seemingly bizarre story.