Understanding Prophecy

Varying Levels of Prophesy

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This video is class of 30 in the series Nature of Prophesy.

In this shiur (Torah class) on Prophesy, Rabbi Avishai David explains the Rambam’s declaration that there are many levels of nevua. Rabbi David discusses the differences between Neviim, the Prophetic books, and Ketuvim, the Scriptures, according to the early commentators (Rishonim) Radak, Abarbanel, and Meiri, as well as the approach of Rav Chaim Soloveitchik of Brisk.

Understanding Prophecy

Prophetic Actions

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This video is class of 30 in the series Nature of Prophesy.

In this Torah class (shiur) on Nevua, Prophesy, Rabbi Avishai David presents various views of the commentators on whether actions taken together with a prophesy were literally performed, or were prophetic visions. Rabbi David describes the opposing opinions of Ramban and the Rambam, and the Abarbanel’s compromise position.

Understanding Prophecy

Can a Prophesy Be Changed?

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This video is class of 30 in the series Nature of Prophesy.

In this Torah shiur on the nature of prophesy, Rabbi Avishai David surveys various places in Tanach (Scriptures) where there are contradictory prophesies, and how to understand them. The test of a true Navi is that his prophesies come true, yet the Gemara states that prophetic decrees can be overturned. Rabbi David explores this issue and resolves the difficulties.

Understanding Prophecy

Nevua: Cleaving to Our Creator

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This video is class of 30 in the series Nature of Prophesy.

In this Torah class (shiur) on the nature of Prophesy, Rabbi Avishai David introduces the concept of nevua, prophesy. Prophesy is a level of dveikut B’Hashem, connection to G-d, which is attained by a select group of individuals who have studied, worked to perfect themselves, and have trained under a master Navi. However, every Jew should strive to cleave to G-d as much as possible, with the ultimate goal of attaining Nevua.