Learning Together 

(Option A)

Torah Study for the Soul

Celebrating Ten Full Years of Hasidic Text Study 

with Rabbi Jonathan Slater

And the Institute for Jewish Spirituality

5773: Birkat Avraham

Since the fall of 2002, Rabbi Jonathan Slater has offered weekly translations of classical Hasidic texts for personal study and spiritual growth. Hundreds of rabbis, cantors, educators and others have been enriched through their study of these texts - with partners in havruta or on their own, in Torah study groups and as materials for teaching.

You are invited to join the growing numbers who access the depth and richness of Hasidic spirituality presented in contemporary terms. 

This year Jonathan will offer lessons from Birkat Avraham, the teachings of R. Avraham Weinberg, of the Slonim tradition, the father-in-law of R. Shalom Noach Berezovsky, the author of Netivot Shalom. 

R. Avraham represents a rich current in the stream of Slonimer teachings, and in his work includes an unusual twist: at least one teaching in which the lesson of the weekly Torah portion is transformed into a prayer.

This prayer is framed in each instance by the verse, "As for me, may my prayer come to You, O YHVH, at a favorable moment; O God, in Your abundant faithfulness, answer me with Your sure deliverance" (Ps. 69:14). 

Each week we will be invited to participate in turning our Torah study into prayer, opening our hearts to embrace the fullness of our lives with hope and commitment.

Each week Jonathan will provide a translation of one of these teachings, with reflection questions for personal application and commentary. As always, his commentary will be based in mindfulness practice and Jewish spirituality. This year will be an adventure weaving prayer into our ongoing Torah study.

We encourage participants to study with a partner, and will endeavor, to the extent possible, to help participants find partners. 

For more information, contact Rabbi Slater at jonathan@jewishspirituality.org or 914/478-7326.