Torah Studies - Adult Education
A Torah Studies course delving into the modern lessons from the ancient themes of the weekly Parsha.
Torah Studies is a series of stimulating text and discussion-based classes that take place on a weekly basis. These classes will engage and challenge you intellectually, spiritually and emotionally. They explore contemporary issues through a Torah perspective as well as tackling timeless questions in the Jewish tradition.
Each class is a standalone unit, so feel free to come along or join virtually when you can!
Instructor: Rabbi Mendy Singer.
Registration is free. The student textbook is available on Amazon here.
The classes are held every Thursday at 7:30 pm, in person at Chabad and virtually. Join us on Zoom at www.jewishbristol.com/zoom or watch live on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/chabadbristol.
Weekly: Thursday, 7:30 - 8:30 pm
Thursday, 9 July
Settling for More
How the Right Perspective Transforms Decisions
The tribes of Gad and Reuven made a life-changing decision to settle outside of Israel. But was their choice driven by fear or a vision of greater possibilities? Explore how shifting our mindset can make the difference between a retreat and a new opportunity.
Thursday 16 July
Building from the Rubble
The First Step to Rebuilding What’s Broken
Sometimes, things fall apart to make room for something better. This class dives into how life’s most painful moments can be reframed as the start of something new. Harness the energy of breakdowns to fuel breakthroughs, and discover how to find purpose in every twist of life’s journey.
Sunday 19 July - Date Change
Memory Is Life
Forgetting Torah Is Like Losing a Part of Yourself
Torah study isn’t just a learning experience—it’s the key to life itself. But what happens when we forget the teachings we’ve absorbed? Explore why Torah isn’t just information, it’s the breath of life—and how forgetting even one word can have profound spiritual consequences.
Thursday 30 July
The Night of Opportunity
The Magic of Evening Torah Study
While most people use their evenings to relax or unwind, Jewish tradition teaches us to connect with G-d through Torah study at night. Discover how the quiet of the night can deepen your Torah study and transform your life.
Thursday 6 August
The Real Meaning of Tzedakah
Why Giving Shouldn’t Feel Like Earning
Giving tzedakah during the High Holidays reminds us that we’re all recipients of G-d’s generosity. In this lesson, we’ll examine how tzedakah reflects a deeper truth: our actions only carry weight because G-d has chosen to give them meaning. And for that, we are eternally grateful.
Thursday 13 August
When Everyone’s Wrong
How to See the Good When Everyone Else Sees the Bad
What happens when everyone agrees on something—especially when it’s a conviction? Shouldn’t that mean it’s right? Explore the Torah’s fascinating perspective on unanimous judgments and how they often point to a deeper truth. Sometimes, when everyone says “bad,” it’s the perfect time to look for the good.
Thursday 30 August
One Person. Seriously?
Annoying News for Anyone Hoping to Stay Spiritually Off the Grid
Wish you could sit this one out and let the more “serious” people handle fixing the world? Not so fast. This class explores a Torah view where every individual action counts, and where even one mitzvah can tip the cosmic scales. Low pressure this is not. Empowering? Very.
Thursday 27 August
Gratitude in Two Acts
The Immediate Thank You and the Thoughtful Follow-Up
Gratitude isn’t just a quick “thank you.” Explore how the mitzvah to thank G-d for the first fruits teaches us two layers of gratitude: the spontaneous initial thanks, and the deeper reflection that follows. Both layers are essential to fully appreciating the gifts we receive.
Thursday 3 September
The Power of Standing Still
Why the Paradox of Jewish Law Actually Sets Us Free
Is it possible to hold steadfast to ancient truths while evolving within them? This lesson unpacks the paradox of Jewish law: how we are rooted in the unchanging, yet constantly urged to innovate. Learn how both principles come together to form the dynamic essence of Judaism.
Thursday 10 September - Rosh Hashana Class
A Year That Doesn’t Exist
Why Desperation Makes Prayer More Powerful
Rosh Hashanah calls us to pray not just for a good year, but for the very creation of that year. Explore how prayer can reach beyond the realm of possibility, changing G-d’s will and our fate, even in the most dire circumstances. If we pray like our lives depend on it, they just might.
Thursday 16 September - Yom Kippur Class
A Parent’s Love
Why G-d’s Forgiveness Doesn’t Mean We Can Stay the Same
Jews in the Soviet Union risked everything to free the Rebbe. Despite impossible odds, their self-sacrifice led to an unexpected victory. What allowed them to succeed where logic said they couldn’t?
Thursday 1 October - Sukkot Class
The Unsung Hero of Sukkot
The Willow Is More than Just a Branch
The willow may seem like the least impressive of the four species, but its role in the Sukkot ritual speaks volumes. Examine why the willow is chosen for a special mitzvah, and how it teaches us the importance of simple, unwavering faith as the foundation for all other forms of observance.