What is Pesach? (5761).

A seven part series outlining the basic theme(s) of this Yom Tov (season) and its timeless relevance. This series was taught in a warm and engaging style to a small class at Machon Chana in 5761/2001. The material is accessible to anyone.

Class One. Where are all the Miracles? Look behind the scenes of the Pesach drama. The first class takes on the oft asked question, “Why don’t we see open miracles any more?”.

Class two. Starting out with a bang. The Pesach season is a time of warmth and beginnings. This class brings to center stage the early days of the relationship between the Jewish people and Hashem with humor and examples that everyone can relate to.

Class Three. A special time to break out of Mitzrayim. This class examines why we continue to observe Pesach in contrast to the many days of commemoration in Jewish history that are no longer observed. Why is Pesach important whether we recognize it or not.

Class Four. Let’s talk about Matza. This class includes a brief summary of the previous classes (approx. 3 minutes) so it is a good place to start if you have limited time to listen. The class moves quickly into a core question related to Pesach- why we eat Matza. The answers provide food for deep thought about freedom and how we get there.

Class Five. No Chometz please. This class starts out with the topic of Chometz (leavened flour and water) including some practical points of interest. Then Rabbi Paltiel moves into the Chassidus of avoiding Chometz. He connects this to the importance of children at the Pesach Seder- both actual children and the children within ourselves.

Class Six. The point of the Seder is to say “Wow”. The class begins with a discussion of Chinuch related to Pesach and ends with….”wow”. Don’t miss the stories in the last two minutes of the class.

Class Seven. Make it real. This is the last installment in the Pesach lecture series. Rabbi Paltiel goes beyond the philosophy and makes a final point that will penetrate your heart. This class provides inspiration to use the extra help Hashem provides at Pesach to jump over the barriers in our lives.