Transformative Torah Teachings

Is it appropriate to ask for personal needs on Rosh Hashanah? It seems to contradict the spirit of the day, where the focus is on our dedication and devotion to G-d as our king. This class will illuminate the very nature of prayer. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19)

Judaism teaches us to value and optimize hard work. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 15 Lech-Lecha)

A deeper look at Avraham’s approach in compelling others to bless G-d, offers insight into the great value of influencing another to do even one mitzvah. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 15 Vayeira)

Analysis of two halachic perspectives on marriage; teach us about two dimensions of our relationship with G-d. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19 Ki-Teitzei)

Explore the difference between the role of Torah and prophecy, specifically the unique prophecy of Moshe, and learn why Moshe's project prophecy consolidates the integrity of the Torah. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19 Shoftim)

Why Hashem wants us to access Infinity through a finite world experience. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19 Devarim)

Debunking the legal argument the angels used to try keep the Torah. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 18 Shavuos)

How the greatest of Kabbalists teaches us to direct spiritual aspirations to transform the world. Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17 Behar – Lag b’Omer)

Analysis of Rashi’s commentary on why the Torah teaches about giving to the poor in middle of a section about the holiday offerings, underscores the importance of doing a mitzvah without ulterior motives. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17 Emor)

Passover has three names, to represent the three key stages of revolutionary spiritual growth. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17 Pesach)

Being Jewish is about synthesizing the supernatural and the natural. Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17 Tazria - HaChodesh)

The Rebbe offers a profound perspective on what Purim is all about. Discover how the real Purim joy lives outside of your personal life. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Purim)

Understanding the deeper meaning to the small Alef in the word Vayikra teaches to know your strengths, but remain humble. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17 Vayikra)

The divine objective is to infuse infinite G-dliness into our finite material world. Discover the Jew’s unique role in the master plan and how this all relates to the conclusion of the book of Exodus. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Pekudei)

The Mishkan has two distinct elements that reflect the two distinct ways in which we connect to G-d. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Vayakhel)

How the golden calf brought the giving of the Torah to completion. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Ki Tisa)

The pomegranates and bells on the hem of the High Priest’s robe announces the beauty of a Baal Teshuvah. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Tetzaveh)

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)

Each of us is here with a unique mission; how do we master it? A perplexing statement of R. Yochanan ben Zakai shortly before his passing, offers direction in how to live every day to the fullest. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16 Mishpatim)

Judaism can't only be about our own spiritual growth—a lesson we from Yaakov and his sheep. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 15 Vayeitzei, sicha 4)

The transformational potential of Elul starts with a nudge from G-d, empowering us to do our part. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19 Shoftim)

A closer look at the two interpretations of Rashi on the lighting in the Ark. (Likutei Sichos vol. 10, Noach sicha 1)

The dramatic story of the spies Moses sent to scout out the Land of Israel to conquer it is utterly perplexing. How can these handpicked leaders end up claiming that G-d’s mission can’t succeed. Where did the spies go so wrong? Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 4 Shelach.

The notorious uprising led by Korach against the leadership of Moses and Aaron begs the question of what motivated such an illustrious spiritual individual to fall so low? Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 4 Korach.

Is justice about punishing the perpetrator or compensating the victim? A fascinating exploration of the Egyptians giving their wealth to the Israelites at the Exodus. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 21, sicha 2)

Is our connection to G-d inherent or developed through Torah? Let's explore the design of the Holy Ark to understand our relationship with G-d.

You already believe. The mitzvah is to know G-d. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 26, Yisro sicha 1)

When G-d gave us the manna in the desert, He taught us how trusting Him brings us success. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 26, Beshalach sicha 2)

How deep does our responsibility for our fellow Jew go? Explore some Talmudic law on guaranteeing a loan for deeper insight into our obligation to one another. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 26, Mishpatim sicha 1)

Why did the leaders of the tribes who were so enthusiastic about donating to the Sanctuary make such a limited contribution? This points to the importance of using our talents well. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 28 Naso sicha 2)

Why were the Jews exhausted when they reached Sinai? Discover how standing at Sinai exposed the deepest Jewish unity. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 28 Rosh Chodesh Sivan)

You'd think the more religious you are, the more spiritually protected you are. It's not that simple. Learn the conditions for both susceptibility to impure negative forces and the proper protection against them. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 27, Shemini sicha 3)