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Shiurim

Torah Learning at Penn

Torah Learning at Penn includes formal and informal shiurim (classes), chavrutot (partnered learning), and guest speakers. Learning events are open to all members of the greater Penn Community.

Shiurim will meet on a weekly basis, unless otherwise specified. If you have any questions about a specific shiur, please feel free to e-mail the person giving the shiur. If you have any other questions, or if the teacher’s contact information is not provided, please contact the OCP shiurim coordinator, Naomi Tarlow (naomitar@gmail.com).

Men of Faith

Noam Pratzer (pratzer@sas.upenn.edu)
The goal of this shiur is to look at different approaches on what it means to be a person of faith. Each shiur will begin with a 20-40 minute source based presentation on the day’s thinker, followed by a discussion/analysis which will be meant to try to flush out the implications of the given approach. As the semester goes on the different approaches will be compared and contrasted in ways that shed light on the extreme differences between the thinkers, and how those differences impact in a very practical manner on religious life.

Advanced Talmud - Gemara B’Iyun (Tractate Avodah Zara)

Rabbi Mordy Friedman (ravmordy@pobox.upenn.edu)
In depth learning of Tractate Avodah Zara. We will focus on a textual and in-depth analysis of specific sugyot (sections) and the accompanying Rishonim (scholars). Preparation for the shiur is required, and mareh mekomot (sources) will be posted on-line and placed on the bima in the Beit Midrash. Separate shiurim will be given for men and women.
Shiur meets Mondays and Wednesdays evenings, 6:00-7:00PM for women, and 7:00-8:00PM for men. Please be aware that times may change once the clock changes. Any changes will be announced. Shiur meets in the Grad Student Lounge

Judaism in Depth

Marc Herman (Marc.herman@gmail.com)
In-depth analysis of and insight into different concepts in Judaism, such as tzedaka, chagim and tefillat haderech.

Case Studies in Halachic Change

Rav Mordy Friedman (ravmordy@pobox.upenn.edu)
Whether or not different halachot are subject to change is a constant topic of discussion. We will survey famous sugyot that exhibit clear development and change, and discuss both particular cases and general implications.

Studies in Sefer Shmuel

Limor Friedman (limor@pobox.upenn.edu)
This shiur explores the text and its underlying themes in order to better understand the book of Samuel.

Introduction to Gemara

Eitan Adler
Have you ever wanted to learn Gemara but didn't know where to begin? Eitan's Intro to Gemara shiur will help you develop the skills as learn Tractate Brachot. Every Wednesday night at 6:00. Time subject to change.

History of Tefillah

Rav Mordy Friedman (ravmordy@pobox.upenn.edu)
This shiur will focus on individual tefillot, tracing their history and development. Through the analysis of literary themes and motifs, we will gain an understanding of their significance. Sunday mornings at 9:30 (breakfast included).

Studies in Mussar

Rabbi Yosef Heisler (ythei AT netzero.net)
This shiur seeks to impart lessons in personal and spiritual refinement. In the past we have studied Sha’ar HaBitachon, a chapter in Chovos HaLevavos, Duties of the Heart, by Rabbi Bahya ibn Paquda. This shiur meets Sundays, 6:00 P.M. in the Graduate Student Lounge.

Rav Kook

Hart Levine (hartzl@seas.upenn.edu)
This shiur will attempt to provide a broad exposure to the thought of Rabbi A.Y. Kook, one of the great Jewish thinkers of the 20th century. This shiur focuses on the spiritual lessons gleaned from the texts. Neither knowledge of Hebrew nor previous exposure to Jewish philosophy is required. Meets Thursday nights, at 7:00, in the Grad Student Lounge.

Parshat Hashavua

Nili Samet (nilisamet@gmail.com)
This shiur, taught in Hebrew, explores themes in each parsha that pervade all of Tanach. Through this analysis, we will gain insights into the workings of the Bible. Nili Samet has previously taught at the SKA Beit Midrash for Women at Migdal Oz.