Tu B'Shvat

Tu B’shvat: Combining Heaven and Earth

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This video is class of 28 in the series The Jewish Calendar.

In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Hershel Reichman discusses the holiday of Tu B’Shvat. From a Chassidic perspective, this class delves into the spiritual meaning and function of the day. Just as a tree, acts as a conduit between the rain-soaked earth and the blossoming fruit, Man’s purpose in this world is to use the word of G-d to galvanize himself to positive action. This class also discusses deep significance of each of the Seven Species that are unique to the Land of Israel.

Birkat Hachama

Birkat Hachama: Blessing on the Sun

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This video is class of 28 in the series The Jewish Calendar.

In this shiur (Torah class), Rabbi Michael Taubes presents an overview of the unique Bikat Hachama, blessing on the sun. This bracha is only said once every 28 years, and falls out this year on Erev Pesach. Rabbi Taubes explains the reason and calculations behind the bracha, as well as provides insight into the significance of the event.

Chanuka

Chanuka: Affectionate Light

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This video is class of 51 in the series Chanuka: Victorious Faith.

In this shiur (Torah class) on Chanuka, Mrs. Shira Smiles raises a number of questions about the holiday. Firstly, why is the miracle of the oil the main focus, instead of the miraculous military victory? Secondly, what is the significance of ‘zot Chanuka’, the last day of Chanuka.

Chanuka

Appreciating Miracles: Maoz Tzur, Part 2

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This video is class of 51 in the series Chanuka: Victorious Faith.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Chanuka, Rabbi Avishai David continues his explication of Maoz Tzur, the hymn sung after candle lighting on Chanuka. Part of the obligation to publicize the miracles of Chanuka (pirsumei nisa) is to verbally praise Hashem for them. Maoz Tzur incorporates praise for the miracle of the oil, as well as for the victory on battle, and also discusses the hardships and salvation experienced by the Jewish nation throughout history.

Chanuka

Maoz Tzur, Part 1

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This video is class of 51 in the series Chanuka: Victorious Faith.

In this Torah shiur (class) on Chanuka, Rabbi Avishai David explicates the beautiful poem sung by Jewish families throughout the world after candle lighting, known as Maoz Tzur. Rabbi David discusses the historical background of the liturgical poem, how it became customary to recite it during Chanuka, its roots in Tanach, as well as its structure and its themes of galut (exile) and geula (redemption).