The Torah Learning on this site is dedicated in memory of Rochel Leah bas R' Chaim Tzvi and R' Yisrael Menachem ben R' Binyamin.
Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the fact that G-d’s command to Avraham to travel to the Land of Israel was not simply a command to move physically. She discusses that this charge instead echoes to every Jew and commands each of us to embark on an inner journey of self-perfection.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Korach.
Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Parshat Beshalach. The song of the Jews as they crossed the Yam Suf (Red Sea) and witnessed the final destruction of the Egyptian empire, was an expression of faith and joy.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Behar. The message of Shmitta and other topics in this Parsha is one encouraging us to constantly struggle and grow through every challenge G-d brings.
On Parshat Kedoshim, Shira Smiles speaks about judging one’s fellow Jew favorably.
Mrs. Shira Smiles talks about the theme of redemption.
Mrs. Smiles discusses the goal of each of the four Parshiyot read between Adar and Nissan, and reveals the goal of Parshat Shekalim.
Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Parshat Va-eira. The story of the Jews’ enslavement in Egypt can be seen through the lense of developing proper middot (character traits), especially that of hakarak hatov (gratitude).
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Shemini. The Torah lists Kosher and non-Kosher animals. What is the significance of the mitzvah of keeping Kosher?
Mrs. Shira Smiles talks about the fast day of the Tenth of Tevet, as well as the parsha for this week, Parshat Vayechi.
Mrs. Shira Smiles teaches Parshat Tazriah. The Parsha speaks at length about the laws of Tzara’at, leprosy.
Mrs. Smiles explores the symbolism of the coat of the Kohen Gadol, which was edged with bells and pomegranates.
Mrs. Shira Smiles addresses the many questions that arise concerning the episode of Rachel stealing the idols of her father Lavan as Yaakov flees Lavan’s home.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about the challenge of maintaining moments of inspiration, using them to fuel our constant spiritual journey.
In this Parsha, the famous Chet Ha-egel, Sin of the Golden Calf, was committed. Mrs. Smiles discusses Aaron’s role in this event, and talks about the power of Teshuva.
Mrs. Shira Smiles expounds upon Parshat Toldot by delving into the message that Esav gives us.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Bamidbar.
Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses the special garments of the Kohanim, the priests.
Mrs. Shira Smiles gives an analysis of the extraordinary episode of the search for Yitzchak’s wife, and a discussion of the lessons gleaned from this story for our personal lives.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Bechukotai. The Parsha teaches us the importance of constantly investing in our relationship with G-d.
Mrs. Shira Smiles delves into Parshat Terumah. Parshat Terumah discusses the buliding of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle. The task of building a Sanctuary for Hashem (G-d) is applicable to every Jew, who is charged with building a Sanctuary for G-d in is heart.
Mrs. Shira Smiles explores the episode of the angels’ promise to Avraham and Sarah that they will be blessed with a son. Shira Smiles clarifies this difficult-to-understand episode with both the classical understanding and with the novel approach of the Belzer Rebbe.
Mrs. Shira Smiles speaks about Parshat Shelach, and the sin of the spies.
Mrs. Shira Smiles talks about Parshat Yitro. Parshat Yitro describes Matan Torah, the giving of the Torah to the Jewish Nation at Sinai. This class discusses Torah’s purpose and application to every aspect of our lives. Specifically, it focuses on the Ten Commandments and their application.
Mrs. Shira Smiles provides a discussion of the unfortunate incident of Shechem’s violation of Yaakov’s daughter, Dina.
Mrs. Shira Smiles discusses Parshat Bo. As the Jews left Egypt, they received gold, silver, and many valuables from the Egyptians. Mrs. Smiles explores this episode and its significance,and discusses the proper perspective to material possesions.
