An overview of some ideas and quotes that are basic to the Rebbe’s teachings.

Part Two in the Mini-Series on Shema Yisroel continues the discussion of Shema Yisroel from the perspective of both philosophy (based on the Rambam) and Kabbala (drawing on Rabbenu Bechaye). Note: The third part of this series will cover the Chassidus of Shema Yisroel. Women’s and Girl’s Beis Midrash and Seminary for Higher Learning Parsha…

Moshe Rabbenu gave the Yidden mussar (criticism) in parshas Devarim. Rabbi Paltiel discusses the concept and process of giving mussar in a way that will lead to a good result. He discusses several lessons from the Gemara that enlighten the point. The class also includes an introduction to Chodesh Menachem Av (the month of Menachem…

The Three Weeks always carries us from Matos/Masei into Devarim. Rabbi Paltiel explores the connection between beginning Sefer Devarim (Deuteronomy) and the practice of taking on chumrahs (stringencies) in the observance of Halacha (Jewish Law). How do chumrahs bring more light into Jewish life? Plus a discussion of the war with Midyan.

This week’s parsha class is a continuation of a 3 part series on Birchas Kohanim – Part One appeared last week. This second installment focuses on the commentary of Rashi, Even Ezra, Rabbeinu Bechaye and the Ralbag. Chassidus on Birchas Kohanim is covered in Part Three which will appear next week.

Why are Korbonos (sacrifices) unique among mitzvos to get this extraordinary allusion of the divine delight korbonos bring Hashem. This class includes Rashi, and the Rebbe’s sicha on it, The Gemara and Maharsha, Rabbeinu Bichayey, Chasam Sofer and others. It concludes with a brief chassidic commentary.

”Ve-Chai bahem” – Live by the mitzvot – do not die by them. Gemara (halacha), Rashag, Rashi, Eben Ezra, Ramban, R. Bechayey, Alshich, Ohr Hatorah

VAYIGASH 2006 – YEHUDA AND YOSEF CLASSES VAYIGASH 2006 – YEHUDA AND YOSEF CLASSESA discussion of the word “vayigash” in our continuing series on the first line of each parsha. Sources include: Reb. Bechaye, Kli Yakar, Ohr HaChayim, Abarbanel, Alshich, Etz Hadaas Tov, and Chassidus.

Tanu Rabbanan Ner Chanuka 5738The issue of Chanuka, was an attack on the Soul (purity and holiness) of Yiddishkeit. It didn’t mind the Torah as long as it was intellectual, and Mitzvos were ok, as culture without Him C”V. The Mesiras Nefesh came from Yechida, completely removed from reason, and is one where one seems…

Why does the Torah repeat what it says in P Vayishlach?