Rashi: An Introduction

A Primer for a New Year of Torah Studies

Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki, known as Rashi, a celebrated eleventh-century sage, authored the most authoritative commentary on the Torah. This lesson introduces students to the rich world of scholarship dedicated to his work. This year, embark on a fascinating journey into Rashi's profound insights and timeless wisdom.

Global Reach, Local Concern

Never Too Big to Care for Those Closest to You

It's a common trap: achieving global influence while forgetting family and friends. Avraham's name change associated with his promotion from local chieftain to world leader teaches us to avoid this pitfall and remember the importance of those nearest to us.

A Jewish Take on Hospitality

Inviting Guests: Greater than Seeing G‑d Himself

Judaism places immense value on hospitality. The Torah recounts how Avraham paused his Divine encounter to welcome travelers. Explore the logic behind this seemingly exaggerated graciousness and its profound implications.

What Do You Love about Israel?

It’s More than Falafel and the IDF

Polls show Jews worldwide love the Holy Land, but what makes it so special? A close analysis of Rashi’s comments on Abraham’s conversation with his butler reveals a critical, often overlooked idea about the love for Israel.

It’s Not So Good to Be a Goodie-Goodie

The Beauty of ‘The Struggle’

Would you choose to be free of all negative temptation? A close study of two sets of twins in Genesis—Jacob and Esau, along with Peretz and Zerach—argues that the answer should be "No!" Discover the value of struggling against temptation.

Jacob’s Moral Dilemma

Don’t Be Pious at Someone Else’s Expense

Marrying two sisters was forbidden, but so was crushing someone’s feelings. Jacob faced a tough choice and prioritized his values, teaching an eternal lesson about balancing piety with compassion.

Broaden Your Horizons

What an Ancient Sage’s Travels Teach about Exploring New Ideas

Rabbi Akiva, one of the greatest sages, was also an explorer. Learn why this pious scholar traveled to learn about other cultures and what it teaches us about embracing new ideas.

Keep Climbing

Trajectory Is All That Matters

Who builds a city on a mountain slope? An ancient Mesopotamian city captures a key Jewish tenet: two people can be on the same slope but moving in different directions. The lesson? Always aim for the upward trajectory.

‘Take the First Step. I’ll Do the Rest’

One Small Step of Man, One Giant Step from G‑d

Why must we put in effort if G‑d is the one doing everything? Explore the purpose of our efforts and where our work ends and G‑d’s begins, through the story of Chanukah.

When You’re in Pain, Start Yelling

Standing Up for Your Beliefs

When Joseph, still in disguise, threatens to keep Benjamin, Judah steps up and throws a tantrum. What happened to diplomacy? Discover the importance of standing up for what you believe in.

You Can Clean Up Your Own Mess

No Mistake Is Too Great to Fix

The Jewish people have faced many challenges, some self-inflicted, yet we’ve always persevered. Jacob’s parting blessing to his son Benjamin teaches that no challenge is insurmountable.

The Ideal Jew

Hint: It’s Not a Rabbi

Scholars and clergy are great, but they’re not the ideal Jew. What is the ultimate goal for all of us? The story of two defiant midwives in ancient Egypt and their Divine reward offers a profound clue.