Torah Study
Torah is the medium of communication through which G–d enables man to know and serve Him. The campaign for Torah study encourages every individual to set fixed times for Torah study every day so that our spiritual growth and development can be systematic and directed. Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi explained that Torah study should be fixed not only in time but also in soul. It should be the vortex around which the entire spectrum of our day-to-day experience revolves.
Why is it a comandment to study the torah:
The study of the Torah is considered a commandment, or mitzvah, in Judaism because it is believed to be the word of God and the source of Jewish laws and teachings. The Torah contains the laws and teachings that are central to the Jewish faith and guide the way that Jews live their lives. As such, the study of the Torah is considered to be an essential part of being a practicing Jew.
According to Jewish tradition, the study of the Torah is also a way to connect with God and to deepen one's understanding and knowledge of the faith. In Judaism, the pursuit of knowledge and understanding is highly valued, and the study of the Torah is seen as a way to achieve this.
In addition, the study of the Torah is believed to bring spiritual growth and enlightenment, and it is seen as a way to draw closer to God and to live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Overall, the study of the Torah is considered a central part of the Jewish faith and is seen as an essential way to connect with God, deepen one's understanding of the faith, and live a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Best way to start learning about the torah:
If you are interested in learning about the Torah and Judaism but have no prior background in the faith, there are a few different ways you can begin your studies.
One option is to start by reading a translation of the Torah itself. There are many different translations available, so you may want to do some research to find one that is easy to understand and well-regarded. As you read, you may also want to seek out resources that provide background information and explanations of the text to help you understand it better.
Another option is to take a class or join a study group focused on the Torah or Judaism more broadly. Many synagogues and Jewish community centers offer classes for people who are interested in learning about the faith, and there may be online resources or distance learning options available as well.
You may also want to consider speaking with a rabbi or other knowledgeable person about your interest in learning about the Torah and Judaism. They may be able to provide guidance and recommendations for resources or other ways to get started.
Overall, the best way to start learning about the Torah will depend on your individual learning style and needs. Whatever approach you choose, it's important to be patient and persistent, and to seek out resources and guidance from knowledgeable individuals as you begin your studies.
Jews are known as bright people. In fact, we've been a people of books and wisdom for 4,000 years. Which makes for a lot of books and wisdom. What kind of wisdom? Well, there's the basic what-to-do-and-what-not-to-do stuff. Then there's the stories and legends. And there's the real deep what-is-life-all-about wisdom, including the secrets of the Kabbalah and Chassidic masters. It's all there waiting for you. In fact, it's your personal heritage. It's called Torah.
Torah shares the same etymology as the Hebrew word orah, "light"—its teachings shine a light on life and show you which way to go. And its study is a mitzvah—actually, the greatest mitzvah we have.
When:
"You shall teach [it] to your children and speak its words when you sit in your house, when you walk on the way, when you lie down and when you rise"—Deuteronomy.
Its study is a mitzvah—actually, the greatest mitzvah we have.A Jew is always studying Torah—24/7/365. We take breaks to eat, sleep, pray, make a living and reenergize. The remainder of the time we connect to G‑d through studying His wisdom.
The minimum requirement is that you fix some time for study once a day and once a night. Can't devote as much time as you'd like? Support a yeshivah and be a partner in their study.
Who:
The rich and the poor, healthy and sick, old and young, smart or dim. Torah is every Jew's personal heritage.
What:
"It is not your job to finish the task, but neither are you free to absolve yourself from it..."—Ethics.
Start with the rules that impact daily life, Shabbat, holidays, etc. And then keep on learning; there's more than enough material to last several lifetimes.
Articulate the words you study. Allow the holiness to impact and refine your body.
How:
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Join a class at your local Chabad House.
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Get online to a Torah learning website, like www.chabad.org.
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Study one-on-one with a scholar. Click here for details.