JLI Torah Studies

You may have read a thousand self-help books and attended a thousand more seminars and lectures. But you know that when all is said and done, the answer lies within you. How can you access your deepest self and be the best you can be? It's simple.

While honoring your parents may seem like a basic social ideal, it is in fact an obligation to G‑d. But why should two human beings deserve unconditional love and respect? Remembering G‑d’s role in creating a child gives new meaning to the nature of this commandment.

Relationships require effort. How do we make sure the other party is getting what is needed? How can we provide what is wanted? And how do we deal with the differences that will inevitably arise? This lesson will show you, by revealing the true meaning of respect.

The Zohar is an important text of the Kabbalah, revealing the depths of creation and secrets of the Torah. This biographical sketch will shed light on the life and times of its author, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. What is the story of this great sage, and what can we learn from him?

Do you expect any reward for being a good person, like eternal bliss or a nice place in heaven? Or maybe you are the altruistic type, just happy to do the right thing? The Torah promises reward for keeping its commandments, but for some reason doesn't mention any spiritual payback.

Shavuot is the day we received the Torah, and on it we read the Book of Ruth. What is the reason for this custom, and what can we learn from it? Ruth teaches us what it means to accept the Torah—on the Torah’s terms.

The numeric equivalents of Hebrew letters reveal a fascinating world in Jewish thought. When and how should this method be used to draw conclusions in Torah study? Enjoy this overview of the purpose and methodology of gematria.

Talking about people is one of easiest things we can do. It is also one of the most damaging. So how can we avoid it? Of course, effort must be invested in watching what we say. But the key lies deeper than that, in how we relate to each other in the first place.

The Torah tells us to include a blue thread in the tzitzit. What is that thread all about, and why do most men wear tzitzit with only white threads? This lesson tells the history of techelet and the fascinating scientific quest to identify the species used in making it.

Nobody likes the narcissist. It’s better to be humble and not to think too highly of yourself, it would seem. But knowing the dangers of self-loathing, perhaps there is virtue to haughtiness? Moses, the humblest of men and greatest of leaders teaches us how to find a healthy balance.

When we look back at rough times and see how things turned out for the best, we become aware of the miracles in our lives. But perhaps the greatest miracles are the ones we are not even aware of. When we keep in mind the work G‑d is doing for us, we can truly be at ease.

Your neighbors have a broad window in the front of their home, giving you a great view of what’s going on inside. Are you allowed to look inside and see what’s happening? If you think not, what if they don’t care? Explore the halachic take on privacy and discover a surprising life lesson along the way.