Devarim, VeEtchanan, Ekev – Torah and the Land of Israel
Rabbi Aaron begins the book of Devarim with an overview of the nature and content of the book through the perspectives of different commentators. Then he focuses on developing the main themes of Torah and the Land of Israel from the first three portions of the book.
Shoftim – Justice: Divine Will or Human Perception?
After an outline of the parsha. Rabbi Aaron asks the questions: Is justice Divine Will or human perception? Why is justice a foundation of the world? What is the first step in building a just society in the Promised Land? What is a judge’s role?
Ki Teitzei – The Dynamic of War Consciousness
This parsha’s main theme is the meaning of going to war and all of the challenges that it entails. Through the unique teachings here, Rabbi Aaron shows us that war is only one of many settings where one must guard their sensitivities.
Ki Tavo – Happiness: The First Fruit of G-d
The bikkurim (first fruits) brought to Jerusalem are related to the true understanding of human productivity and man’s struggle to develop a loving relationship with the Creator. Life’s truest joy is when one’s productivity is offered to Hashem.
Netzavim and VaYelech – The Last Days of Moses’ Life
Here, Rabbi Aaron discusses different approaches to the relationship between redemption and teshuva, both on the personal and national level. On this topic, the big issue raised is: How much should the nation facilitate the redemptive process through activism?
HaAzinu – The Redemption Song
Moshe’s song, which describes the history of Israel in a nutshell, divided into six parts, is the song of the ultimate redemption of all of creation. One of the major themes brought out in this class is the Jewish people’s divine role in human destiny.
VeZot HaBracha – Moses the Divine Man
This last parsha of the entire Torah is Moshe blessing the Tribes and clarifying their respective uniqueness. The Torah’s essence, Moshe’s attainment as a man of G-d, and Hashem’s roles in relation to His people are also explored.
Devarim In-Depth – Are These the Words of Man or G-d?
For those who wish to delve more deeply into the first parsha of the Book of Devarim, this class is for you. Rabbi Aaron deals with Moshe’s transformation from a person who cannot speak well in front of people to someone who is able to express himself eloquently. He also explains why this Book is review of the entire Torah, and why it is specifically targeted to the generation entering the Land.
Ekev In-Depth – Interdependence of the Land and the Torah
Take a further exploration into the parsha, beginning with a discussion on the integration of the spiritual and physical dimensions. Here, Rabbi Aaron reveals the secret of the Blessing after Eating Bread and how the Torah’s commandments strengthen a Jew.