Courses

Embracing Elul
In preparation for the High Holidays join us for coffee, conversation and text study. Please register, no charge.

Year Long Courses

Talmud Brachot
Rabbi Noah Sonenberg

We will study various sections in the tractate that primarily addresses the rules regarding prayer in general, the Shema, the Amidah or silent prayer, Grace after Meals, kiddush, havdalah and other blessings. The tractate is replete with Aggadah, rabbinic homilies that incorporates folklore, historical anecdotes, moral exhortations, and practical advice. This course will teach Talmudic structure and terminology and is designed to enhance skills in reading Mishna and Gemara.

The course presumes a certain facility with Hebrew text, but does not require it. One can follow the arguments by listening carefully.

Sundays, 8:00 - 9:30 p.m., October 14 - May 12
Or Chaim Yeshiva, 159 Almore Avenue
No classes December 23, 30, January 6, February 24, March 24, 31

Prophets: Havakuk and Malachi
Rabbi Mordechai Torczyner

A text-centred study of two the Bible's lesser known prophets. While relatively brief, each book has a unique character and message. We will pay close attention to the structure, content, style, historical context and unique message of each book and examine its relationship to other books of the Bible.
This course is open to students of all levels and backgrounds offering something for everyone.
Men and women welcome.

Tuesdays, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. October 16- December 22
Shaarei Shomayim Congregation, 470 Glencairn Avenue

Studies in Genesis
Dr. Shoshana Zolty

We will carefully examine and compare the approaches taken by different classical commentaries in analyzing the Torah text focusing on elements of language and structure to uncover and interpret literary patterns. We will study Genesis, chapter 4, the story of Cain and Abel and the descendents of Cain; Genesis, chapter 5, the genealogy of mankind; and Genesis, chapter 6, God's regret. Later in the year we will study chapters 32 and 33, Jacob's struggle with the angel and the reunion of Jacob and Esau. Basic themes of a theological, philosophical, scientific, cosmological, historical, and ethical nature in the Torah narrative will be discussed. The course encourages group discussion and inquiry. The overall goal is to teach an approach to the study of Torah text which demonstrates the richness of ideas that are contained in each verse.
This course is accessible to those with extensive or minimal textual skills.

Tuesdays, 7:45 - 9:30 p.m., October 16 - May 28
Or Chaim Yeshiva, 159 Almore Avenue
No classes December 25, January 1, March 19, 26, April 2, May 14

or

Wednesdays, 9:45 - 11:30 a.m., October 17 - May 29
Shaarei Shomayim Congregation, 470 Glencairn Avenue
No classes December 26, January 2, March 19, 26, April 3, May 15

To join ongoing classes call 416-877-2050

Watch your email for more courses.