Oral Torah

When the Written Torah was transmitted, so were certain explanations, rules, reasons and laws. Only when this, the Oral Torah, was in danger of being lost (after the exile of the Jews from Israel) was it recorded. In addition to the Mishna and Talmud ( Gemorah ), all other divinely inspired material that has accumulated through the ages is included in the Oral Torah.

Halacha (Jewish Law)

Halacha is the study of the relationship between man and G-d, achieved through specific conscious acts, called Mitzvos, which serve to bring order into man’s life and sanctity into the world. Performance of the Mitzvos involves a system of laws governing man’s relationship not only with G-d, but also with himself, to others, and with the world.

• Halacha
  J111- 2 credits

J112- 2 credits

Using the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch as a guide, the course will cover all Halachos pertinent to the daily life of a Jew.

• Halacha
  J221 – 2 credits

A more extensive scholarly study of the laws of Shabbos, such as Muktzah, objects which cannot be touched on Shabbos, carrying on Shabbos, as well as an in-depth study of the laws of cooking on Shabbos.? The Shulchan Aruch Harav is the primary text.

• Halacha
  J222 – 2 credits

The Jew is required, with regard to particular acts, to utter thanks to G-d, thereby maintaining conscious appreciation of the physical gift, and of G-d the Giver. This course is designed to familiarize students with these blessings and the circumstances in which they are recited. The Rav’s Shulchan Aruch is the course text.

• Halachos of Family Purity
  J300 – 2 credits

Marriage represents the highest union that exists within Torah. The renowned strength of the traditional Jewish family is in large part attributed to strict adherence to the laws that Torah sets for governing marital relations. These laws and their meaning are taught in depth.

 

Talmud

The Talmud, also known as Gemorah, is a composite of practical law, logical reasoning, analytical argumentation, and moralistic teachings, all of which serve to help clarify the Torah.

• Talmud
  J131- 1 credit

J132- 1 credit

This course begins with selected portions of Ein Yaakov, the Aggadic portion of Talmud.? The classic method of Gemorah study is used.? The course then moves into more standard Gemorah study.

• Talmud

J232 – 1 credit

Advanced Gemorah Study

 

Tefillah (Liturgy)

As a channel of communication between man and G-d, prayer is integral to Jewish life. It is a service of the heart and an expression of the Jew’s striving for closeness to his Creator. By ascending the four rungs of the ladder of prayer, as clarified by Chassidus, the Jew undergoes spiritual refinement, bringing him closer to G-d.

• Tefillah
  T111 -

The structure and meaning of the prayers contained in the Siddur (daily prayer book) are studied. Their function in reinforcing the basic principles of Jewish faith, as well as their timeless relevance, will be reviewed with the aim of enabling the student to participate comfortably in the service.

• Tefillah
  T212
  Prerequisite: T111

This course explores the origins and goals of the Shabbos and Holiday prayers as enlightened by Chassidic thought, with the aim of enabling the student to participate in the service.

• Davening (Prayer)
  T100 –

An optional class offered during the time allotted for morning services in which an instructor leads the class in oral prayer. Through practice, the student acquires the knowledge and speed required to daven independently.