Complete overview of the practicalities of Jewish law throughout the yearly cycle, based on the teachings of Rav Yosef Karo. Topics to be covered include prayer, blessings, Shabbat,Holidays, Kashrut, and Kibbud Av V’Em.

This course offers the philosophical underpinnings and halachic sources for many of the areas of Jewish law pertaining to women. Especially emphasized are topics regarding relationships between men and women in Judaism, love, dating and marriage, gender differences, the Jewish view of sexuality and the laws of tzniut. Engaging discussion is a crucial element of the class, and questioning is encouraged.

Gemara Pesachim-
We will be learning together the 10th Perek of Masechet Pesachim. Topics range from Shabbat to Pesach.
Besides increasing our textual skills we will be learning to analyze the Gemara on a more in depth level –
understanding the whys and the whats not only the translation of the words.

A comprehensive study of the laws regarding lashon hara, motzi shem ra, and rechilut using Rav Pliskin’s Guard Your Tongue as a guide.

Where does the concept of prayer come from? What’s the purpose of prayer if G-d knows what we need and want? What does it really mean to have ‘Kavana?’ In this course students will explore the meaning, laws, and development of prayer. Students will gain a deeper understanding of why we pray, while at the same time deepen their knowledge of the laws of prayer. Sources will encompass prayer as it developed from the Bible, the Mishna and Talmud, Maimonides, up until the present day.

The Siddur is the most read book in Judaism yet at times also one of the least understood. In this course we will learn what the words mean in order to gain a sense of the deep personal meaning inherent in our Tefila. Additionally we will examine some of the philosophical questions which come up such as:

1) Philosophy of Prayer: Why do we try to convince God when we pray, if He already knows what we want? Why pray using someone else’s words (the Rabbis)? Why pray in a foreign language (hebrew)? Why pray with many people around us (minyan)?

2) The SIddur’s Words: Week Day Prayers: Birchat Ha Shachar, Psukei D’Zimra, Shema, Shmoneh Esreh, Aleinu.
Shabbat Prayers: Kabbalat Shabbat, The Shabbat Shmoneh Esreh.

An in depth study of all facets of trust in Hashem through classic and contemporary sources such as Hovot Halevavot, Orhot Tzadikim, Michtav MeEliyahu, Netivot Shalom and others. Topics under study include the human capacity for trust, knowledge of G-d that enables us to trust G-d, how our life- scripts impact our ability to trust, and using our imagination as a tool to build a relationship with G-d.

In this Tikun HaMidot class, student discovered a practical approach and guide to working on one’s inner self. During the year, we discuss a wide range of the fundamental Midot (character traits) which guide our thoughts, actions, speech and avodat Hashem in every aspect of our lives. The midot we delved into include: Rahamim, Menuhat HaNefesh, Simha, Redifat HaCavod, Gevura, Anger, Bitachon and Kinah (Envy). A wide range of classical Torah, Mussar and Chassidic sources are studied in depth with emphasis placed on drawing out a relevant and very practical working guide to personal spiritual growth for the purpose of revealing the G-dly light within each of us.

In this course we will explore the development and establishment of our beautiful, magical and miraculous land of Israel. Beginning with the תנ”ך we will explore the centrality of א”י with special emphasis on the last 100 years of Zionist history, discussion of the wars, emmigrations, and personalities who contributed to the states’ founding and formation, such as Theodor Herzl,David Ben Gurion, and Rav Kook, . The course will include multi- media presentations and select trips. Prepare to be inspired!

In this course we will learn about some of the prominent women role models found in Neviim and Ketuvim. We will explore their role and impact during the time in which they lived as well as what we can learn from them today. Personalities include both well-known and not -so-well-known Women in Tanakh studied through the primary text as well as relevant commentaries.

Focusing on the day to day Halacha in one’s kitchen and home, this class will give you the tools to know how to keep a kosher home. The class will focus on learning through text and through hands-on demonstrations in the kitchen. We will be able to see in real time how to practice the Halacha we studied in the classroom. Topics we will discuss: How to keep a
kosher kitchen, meat and dairy, hagalah and libun, preparation for pesach, checking for bugs, tevilat kelim, Bishul of a non-Jew, cooking on Yom Tov, and Shabbat laws in the kitchen.

In this course we will learn about the different relationships a We will use classic sources as well as modern articles from various We will discuss how a person develops on each of these levels. Person has in their life Between a man and himself Between a man and his fellow man Between man and his Creator rabbis and educators.

בן אדם לעצמו

בן אדם לחברו

בן אדם למקום

Soul Mates: A Deeper look at Men and Woman, Dating and Marriage
This class will build a clear and profound understanding of the spiritual root of the male and female and then work to apply this knowledge to the practical Jewish pathway to relationships and marriage. Topics such as what is Love, Shomer Negia, Platonic friendships, dating, soul mates, and marriage will all be dealt with in depth as a means of gaining great insight into this critical subject.

This class aims to build a deeply spiritual yet practical guide to genuine connection in Avodat Hashem through delving into a wide range of sources from the Mussar classics to Chassidut. Through the course the students learn to understand the deeper psychological and spiritual mechanics of the Jewish Self and how to use this self-knowledge to attain and reveal holiness, purity and sincerity in all aspects of life.

We will be discussing various issues concerning our belief in the Halachic system and its development.

The major topics that we be discussed are as follows:

1. Doubt and Faith – what is allowed within the Jewish Tradition and how do we deal with Doubt when we experience it
2. The Denominations of Judaism as seen through their approach to Jewish Law. We will contrast orthodoxy to the other denominations and we will be examining the different approaches to Law and life within orthodoxy itself
3. The Development of Torah Shebeal Peh throughout the ages
4. How does one become a posek and how does pesak Halacha work

This intensive language course focuses on Hebrew comprehension and spoken language skills. It will involve an applied approach to learning Hebrew through class trips to the mall, the religious neighborhood of Jerusalem, the marketplace, and more. The course material will also include the study of Israeli films in order to better understand the Israeli culture and mentality.

In his groundbreaking book, The Story of Our Lives, R’ Yaakov Klein reveals how Rebbe Nachman’s remarkable short story contains the seeds of a unique path to avodas Hashem tailor-made for our wondrous generation.

A veritable textbook on the theological revolution of Chassidus and its relevance to the challenges of the modern era, this seminal work presents a compelling argument for the need to dig deeper in our individual and communal engagement with avodas Hashem.

We plan on covering major philosophical and ideological topics in the Rambam as well as using the Rambam as a springboard for other Hashkafic conversation. The class will be text-based but will spend much time involved in discussion as well.

On a weekly basis, the students will delve into the lessons gleaned from the Torah portion for the coming Shabbat. The class will explore themes of the Parsha and relate them to contemporary issues, allowing the students to integrate the lessons learned into daily life.

For many, Shabbat is a day of restrictions. Yet according to Jewish philosophy and Kabbalah, all the laws of Shabbat are spiritual tools that help a person experience the power of God, family, inner peace and the ability to focus on the present moment. It is not a day of restrictions, but a day of celebration. In this course, we will study many Jewish sources that explain the meaning behind the laws and customs of Shabbat. This course will focus less on analyzing the laws, and more on uncovering the meaning of the laws. Examples of the laws and customs that we will study include: challah, kiddush, candles, three meals, muktzah, pikuach nefesh, Shabbat clothes, Shabbat prayers vs. weekday prayers, havdala, refraining from using electricity/phone. The main goal of this class is to transform Shabbat into something meaningful for one’s life.

In this course students will study the popular “Ethics of the Fathers.” Through textual study students will engage in rigorous discussion of Jewish ethics and morals to derive a deep understanding of appropriate conduct as individuals as well as members of the Chosen nation.

This class emphasizes the positive impact of Sephardic Jewry on the world. It will examine the lives of great Torah scholars and other Sephardic personalities and the various communities pre and post the expulsion of 1492, including the Chida, Ben Ish Chai and the Baba Sali. We will also study major events that affected the Sephardic world. For the Sephardic student especially, this course helps to solidify their Sephardic identity with the knowledge of their glorious past.

Start off the week strong with directed class on positive thought. We will be discussing ideas in self growth such as confidence and self esteem.

In this course students will examine in depth the 13 Ikkarim of the Rambam which form the basis of our beliefs as Jews. Primary and secondary sources will be utilized to gain deeper insight into the significance of each one of the 13 Ikkarim.

Walk through core Musar books: Mesilat Yesharim, Orchot Tzadikim and Chovot Halevavot. The purpose of this course is to delve into self-discovery, explore essential life concepts such as decision making, remaining focused, dealing with failure, seeing the wonder of the world of HaShem and to see HaShem in our everyday life.

Israel Today is a course dedicated to learning of and about Israeli dynamics in general, and current events in particular.

Based on the book by Rabbi Akiva Tatz, this class will delve deep into everyday concepts through a Torah lens. Understanding the world as filled with purpose and meaning is the key to living an inspired life that allows us to grow and thrive through adversity. The book is divided into three parts, the first discusses “The Pattern of Life,” the second “Structure of the Mind” and the third, “Structure of Time”. By delving into the Torah’s understanding of the world, many topics will take on a new dimension and bring clarity to many complex ideas, such as”the importance of beginnings”, “why a good time never lasts”, “doubt and uncertainty”, “the source of evil” and “ordeals and miracles”. These are just a few of the topics that will be discussed in the class.

Many people think that yoga is just stretching. While stretching is certainly involved, yoga is really about creating inner balance and centering the mind. Through deep breathing and postures both challenging and restorative, students will gain a deeper sense of their inner selves, learn how to effectively handle daily stress and come to a place of harmony between body and soul. The benefits of yoga extend to both the body and the mind.

During this experience, the group will work with many art materials which will help them express themselves. Each class, a new subject will be introduced which will trigger the artistic side and self exploration.

This class will attempt to synthesize learning Midrashim with an in-depth textual read of the Pshat and trying to uncover some of what Hazal saw in the Pesukim. We will uncover parallels, opposite thematic developments and try to use them to grow in Yirat Shamayim

The group will experience the art of self discovery and self awareness. Tools and information through active exercise will give the group the opportunity to examine various ways of communication. In addition an eye opener of relationship dynamics. The atmosphere is respectful in a non-judgemental way, direct and honest. The goal of this active course is to increase self awareness, and open new possibilities of choice making and thought processing.

This course will focus on the famous Sefer HaChinuch, a classic text that provides an overview of all 613 mitzvot according to the order of Parashat HaShavua. In addition to increasing the students’ familiarity with a broad range of Torah content, the Sefer HaChinuch instills in us an appreciation for the meaning behind each particular mitzvah and the value of the study and observance of mitzvot in general.

In this course we are going to go through the main historical landmarks which brought the Torah to look like it does today. We are going to get acquainted with the main sources which form Torah in general and especially oral law and halacha. As we go through it we are also going to take the opportunity to discuss the solidity of the revelation and mesora (tradition) from sinai to our days and – good willing – find our own personal spot in the large ocean of the Torah study.

The Book of Tehillim has been a source of inspiration and strength to Jews for thousands of years. In this course, we will explore the meaning of key chapters of Tehillim in depth, with the commentaries and explanations of the great Sephardic sages as our guides.

In this course we will study many stories and texts throughout the Tanach and show how they teach us spiritual lessons for our own life. Topics include Adam and Chava, Abraham and Lech Lecha, Moshe and hitting the rock, King David and Goliath, King Solomon and the Bee, and Eliyahu HaNavi. Each class will focus on a different story or text from the Tanach and uncover its spiritual relevance for our life. The main goal of this class is to transform Tanach into something meaningful for one’s life.

Delve deep into core mussar books using text based sources. We’ll be discussing topics such as self esteem, self acceptance and self- confidence.

In this course we will study the laws of Kashrut and uncover their inner meaning and relevance for our life. We will look at Halachik texts such as the Shulchan Aruch and the Mishna Brura as well as study mystical and philosophical texts. Each class we will focus on a specific Halacha and its spiritual meaning. The main goal of this class is to transform Kashrut into something meaningful for one’s life.

There’s nothing more physical than eating, which explains why we don’t eat on super-spiritual days like Yom Kippur, right? On second thought, eating can be spiritual, since it enables us to serve Hashem with energy. But can the act of eating itself be a way of serving Hashem, right then and there as we eat?
Do we sleep just because we’re tired (or love napping), or is there also a way to sleep like a Jew? Does “simchah” mean literally being ecstatic all the time? And why is simchah so vital to our relationship with Hashem? We all have physical desires with which we struggle throughout our lives, either to resist forbidden desires or to minimize desires for things which are permitted but distract us from what’s important. How do we build the strength to beat these urges? This course will engage topics like these in real-life spirituality, helping us to build a life of kedushah and inspiration.

Designed for highly self-motivated students, Bet Midrash affords students the opportunity to delve into independent learning of topics of their choice with the expert guidance of our very own Rabbi Sack.

This class is divided into two parts. The first half is focused on understanding the Jewish concept of love and marriage and how it differs from the secular perspective. We will study the work of Rav Dessler on Giving as a starting point and will study in depth the “sheva berachot” the seven blessings said under the chuppah. These texts will help us understand what is the Jewish concept of marriage and what are we trying to achieve when we enter into marriage.
The second half of the semester will focus on practical tools on how to find the right partner as well as have a healthy and thriving marriage.

Throughout the year we will explore Shir Hashirim, “The Song of Songs” through a metaphorical approach. King Solomon chose this approach to convey the complexity of the relationship between the Jewish nation and God. King Solomon begins his poem from a certain point in history; He pauses in specific monumental stages in the Jewish development and gives profound hints about the future of the Jewish nation till the time of Mashiach. We will explore all these significant points and delve deeply into the wisdom of Shir Hashirim.

This class explores the Parasha of the week using textual analysis and a wide variety of sources from the commentaries to delve into deeper concepts in the Parasha that relate to spiritual growth and development.

In this class we will work through the foundational inspiring mussar teachings of Rabbi Eliyahu Eliezer Dessler in his monumental work Strive for Truth. Together we will explore topics such as ‘ how free will works ‘, ‘ the truth perspective’, what is the source of true happiness ‘ and much more.

This class will be an in-depth textual study of the last perek of Mishle also known as Eshet Chayil. This Perek is sung every Friday night in many Jewish homes and holds many deep messages on what it means to be a “woman of valor” as well as fulfilling one’s purpose in this world. The class will not only discuss the simple meaning of the words, but will also take a deeper look into the poem and also learn practical tools and insights that are relevant to our day to day lives as women and future mothers.

We will be learning a classic work, the Netivot Shalom. During class we will discuss how to become a better person and a better Jew. Students will be challenged to think, think deeply and strive for clarity in their lives.

Practical Halachot of Shabbat based on Rav Ovadia Yosef that will make your Shabbat more special. In a user friendly format, this dynamic class balances the halachot of Shabbat with their practical application at home.

Pointed topics dealing with self esteem and self acceptance.