Halacha

Instruction in the understanding and practical application of Jewish law with an emphasis on giving the student an ability to access relevant reference sources. The students will first be given a general overview of Jewish law and then proceed to more in–depth study of selected areas of halacha, such as Shabbos, Brachos, and Tefilla. In addition, selected topics in parts of Choshen Mishpat and Yore Deah are taught.

Taught by:
Rabbi Fabian, Rabbi Schwartz

Hashkafa

Topics fundamental to Judaism and human existence are examined through the probing minds of some of our greatest thinkers. Such basic works as: Aggadic sections of the Gemora, Mishle, the Siddur, Kuzari, Derech Hashem, Nefesh HaChaim, Michtav M' Eliyahu, Pirke Avos and Alei Shur, along with special lectures and seminars, help give our students a strong practical and philosophical grounding in Jewish life, thought, and practice.

Taught by:
Rabbi Brussel, Rabbi Fabian, Rabbi Schwartz, Rabbi Haber, Rabbi Ross

Hebrew

Practical instruction in all aspects of the Hebrew language is offered periodically in order to help our students develop textual independence.

Mussar

Students are introduced to the world of Mussar and given the tools to open up these well springs of life. The Mussar classics are invaluable works for guiding the individual to probe and examine himself, and then to grow and improve.

Taught by:
Rabbi Fabian, Rabbi Haber, Rabbi Schwartz

PACE
(Personal And Community Enrichment)

Classes and lectures in areas such as: Preparing for and Building a Successful Marriage, Raising Children, Interpersonal Relationships, Outreach, Community Involvement and Responsibility. These classes will prepare our students for success in both their private and public lives.

Taught by:
Rabbi Fabian, Rabbi Haber, Rabbi Schwartz, and guest lecturers

Talmud

Beginning and intermediate level Talmud is taught with an emphasis on a clear understanding of the text and its early commentaries. The students are then introduced to and taught the proper use of the later commentaries. The students also cover other tractates of Mishnayos and Gemora at a faster pace and on a more basic level in order to acquire a broader scope of knowledge and competence in this type of study.

Level 1 - Introduction to Talmud

Objective: To provide an overview of the oral Torah, its history, and methodology. To teach the basics of Talmudic scholarship and provide a systematic introduction to the foundations of the Hebrew and Aramaic languages.

Methodology: Elucidate, Translate, Rephrase, Rashi, Observe, Grasp. Exposure to Talmudic text, and identification of Talmudic logical structures.

Level 2 - Foundations of Talmud Study
Rabbi Simcha Ross

Objective: Further development of Talmudic skills, increased competence in reading and understanding RASHI, and improvement of Hebrew and Aramiac vocabulary and grammar.

Methodology: Systematic analysis of the Talmudic text and RASHI's commentary. Continued expansion of the student's knowledge of Talmudic nomenclature. Systematic analysis of Rashi's commentary, and introduction to other classic commentaries, including the Tosafoth and Rambam.

Level 3 - Advancement in Talmud Study
Rabbi Shabsi Bulman

Objective: To develop proficiency and accuracy in reading and interpreting the Talmudic texts and the early commentaries.

Methodology: Focus on careful tracking of Talmudic themes, identifying the precise conceptual development at each stage and its relevance to the overall discussion. Has the gemora resolved its original question? What are the implications of each suggested question or answer, and what are the ultimate conclusions? Developing sensitivity to Rashi's subtle nuances of language, and recognizing: When is Rashi interpreting? When is he alluding to hidden questions? When is he clarifying the gemara by paraphrasing?

Increased proficiency with the Tosafists method of comparing sources, their
style of extreme brevity, and rationally filling in the implied links in the
logical chain. Emphasis is placed throughout on precision in the reading and
interpretation of the sources.

Focus on careful tracking of the precise conceptual development at each stage of the Talmudic discussions and final conclusions.

Level 4 - In-depth Talmud and its Halachic Processes
Rabbi Yitzchak Schwartz

Description: The Rosh HaYeshiva will give a daily lecture covering approximately one amud per day, with an overview of the major rishonim and acharonim. Emphasis will be on the process of deriving the authoritative halachic conclusions of each sugya. Prominent visiting Roshei Yeshiva will periodically deliver in-depth discourses.

Tanach

The students are introduced to the study of Chumash and the Prophets with its classic commentaries through regular classes and guided independent study. An emphasis is placed on not only understanding the text in all its richness, but its eternal relevance and message to us today.

Taught by:
Rabbi Schwartz