Unpacking the powerful message of the monumental Chassidic discourse ‘Basi LeGani’, with a focus on the 15th chapter, which is widely being studied this year in preparation for the 10th of Shevat.

An analysis of the final chapter of Hilchos Beis Habechirah, which details the design of the Beis Hamikdosh, leaves us with a deeply moving insight into what transforms a house into a home. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 21 Vayakhel sicha 1)

An analysis of the Torah’s command to contribute the materials necessary for the construction of the Mishkan (Sanctuary), leads to a novel appreciation of the role of the recipient of beneficence.

An analysis of the Code of Jewish Law’s treatment of Purim Katan – the Minor Purim observed in a leap year – reveals the nature of joy at its most sublime state.

A deeper look at the significance of the crossing of the Red Sea following the Exodus and the crossing of the ‘River’ with the arrival of Moshiach, prophesied by Isaiah.

A deeper look at the story of Purim whereby a number of ostensibly incidental details provide the clues to an amazing discovery.

An overview of the very first Maamar (Chassidic discourse) that the Rebbe delivered on the 10th of Shevat 5711 (January 17, 1951), signaling his formal acceptance of the mantle of leadership of Chabad-Lubavitch. This historic discourse defines and directs the mission and destiny of our generation.

The Talmud lists three options whereby one can fulfill the mitzvah of lighting the Chanukah candles. The third - and most desirable option - is a matter of dispute between the Schools of Shamai and Hillel. This class addresses the underlying rationale of these views, revealing new insight into the Festival of Lights. (Based on Likutei Sichos volume 20 and Sefer HaSichos 5748/2)

Discover the revolutionary idea Chassidus introduces regarding G-d’s relationship with us that changes the whole picture. Every Rosh Chodesh an offering was brought in the Temple on behalf of G-d who requests of us to bring atonement on His behalf! This class addresses the various interpretations offered by the classic commentators, contrasting these explanations with the astonishing and enlightening insight of Chassidus.

“One should not take leave of his friend, except amid a discussion of a matter of Halacha, for by doing this he will remember him” (Talmud, Tractate Berachot 31a). This class reveals the inner meaning of this sage counsel, providing the ultimate answer to loneliness. (Based on the Maamar Al Yipater Adam M’Chaveiro 5721)

At the age of 140 Avraham remarries Hagar and fathers six children. Strangely, the Torah does not indicate that this was miraculous. In answering this question, this talk explores the divergent legacies of Abraham and Sarah and the respective roles of men and women in bringing about the Messianic Era. (Based on Likutei Sichos, volume 35, Chayei Sarah 3)

On Sukkot, pilgrims travelled from all over the land of Israel to visit the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. In order not to inconvenience the traveler who lived furthest from the Holy City as he trekked home, the prayer for rain is delayed for 15 days, until the 7th of Cheshvan. In addressing this subject, this class offers the tonic to the inevitable post-holiday blues. (Based on Likutei Sichos, volume 20)

The straight-forward meaning of the words ‘Simchat Torah’ is ‘the joy of the Torah’. But surely the point is our joy with Torah, not the Torah’s joy?! This class explores the essence of Simchat Torah and why it is the culmination of the holidays that forge the foundation for the year to come.

One of the dominant themes of the Rosh Hashanah liturgy is the notion of G-d remembering His covenant with Man. But why the need to remember when He does not forget? This eye-opening class addresses the immanence and essence of Rosh Hashana.

Why is Rosh Hashana observed for two days in Israel? Why do we customarily eat a new fruit on the second night of Rosh Hashanah? How is the mystery of Rosh Hashanah expressed in a law regarding a simple egg? This class addresses the history, Halacha and Kabbalah of the Jewish calendar.

In explaining the unique properties of the month of Elul, the Alter Rebbe invokes a parable of a loving king who comes to visit his subjects in their world, the ‘field’. An examination of the details of this parable reveals a template for successful parenting, education and marriage. (Based on Ani L’dodi 5726)

A commentary by Rabbi Levi Yitzchok Schneerson on a passage in the Zohar extolling the virtue of the penitent (baal teshuvah) over the righteous (tzaddik) yields a profound and inspiring understanding of the nature of time and change. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 20 page 86.)

On Yom Kippur and the 15th of Av the maidens of Jerusalem would go out to its vineyards where young men had gathered, like them, to find their partner in marriage. There the maidens would dance wearing borrowed white gowns. This class addresses the spiritual dimensions of this sublime encounter.

The spiritual significance of the design and measurements of the entrance to the Heichal – the most sacred structure of the Holy Temple. (Based on Reshimah dated Nissan 2, 5700 / 1940, Paris)

The Torah demands that the stones used to build the Holy Temple be unblemished. But what defines a blemish? In answering this question, this class presents a novel definition of perfection and a deeper appreciation of the Holy Temple. (Based on Likutei Sichos volume 29, p. 123)