This course provides a look at how we balance personal religious idealism and family responsibilities. Along the way, we will consider topics as varied as Jewish marriage and divorce laws, Jewish burial practices, and the value of living in the Land of Israel.

You will learn to suspend judgment as you take an argument to its logical extreme and examine the implications. You will also learn how to trace a subject from its Biblical roots through the insightful analysis of the Talmudic sages, and you will see how the debates of the Talmud are resolved by the codifiers of Jewish law.

The Mitzvot associated with preparing for the holiday of Passover are classic examples where the Biblical commandments are closely interwoven with later Rabbinic enactments. As you study, you will learn to analyze the sages’ thought processes as they sought to strengthen Torah observance. Lessons will focus on practical Halacha as you follow the Mitzvah from its Biblical roots to the Talmudic dialogue, to the verdicts of the codifiers.

Along the way, The Talmud’s text meanders to touch on topics as varied as safe traveling, speaking with refinement, trusting strangers and performing Mitzvot with alacrity, among other subjects.

Prayer and reflection are fundamental components of our spiritual life and the ultimate expressions of our faith. In Judaism, on Yom Kippur and other auspicious, holy days or times of need, we intensify our communion with the Almighty with fasting.

Under the guidance and direction of the renowned, leading Talmudic scholar of our era, Rabbi Adin Even-Israel (Steinsaltz), this new course is a study of the opening chapter of Talmudic tractate Ta’anit (Fasting). The discussion in this section centers around the Torah’s view on prayer, and specifically, prayers for rain in times of drought.

The subject is inspirational and empowering, demonstrating the Jewish tradition of directly communicating with our creator and asking Him to provide for all our needs.