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 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 (without the chicken soup!). 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, 24 April
Steps of Truth
What’s True Today Is True Today
In what seems to be a curious exchange between the brothers Moses and Aaron, we learn how they debated what it means to serve G-d authentically. This class uncovers how each mitzvah is a genuine step toward G-d, even if tomorrow’s truth outgrows today’s.
Thursday 1 May
The Treasure of Words
Transforming Harmful Speech into Hidden Gems of the Soul
This lesson reexamines tzaraat as a powerful message about the impact of our words. Through Rashi’s commentary, discover how avoiding gossip and embracing mindful speech can transform negativity, uncover hidden potential, and elevate the way we communicate and live.
Thursday 8 May
“I Jew. You Jew. I Love You”
Learning to Love Even the Difficult Relatives
Is G-d’s love dependent on our actions? Using Rashi’s commentary on the Ten Commandments, this lesson unveils a relationship defined by unconditional love and infinite potential, even in moments of spiritual distance.
Thursday 15 May
Rewriting Who You Are
Real Change Can—and Should!—Be Uncomfortable
True goodness isn’t only about following your instincts—it’s about reshaping them. The Torah’s mitzvot of giving don’t just teach generosity; they force us to break our natural tendencies, surrender control, and give even when it’s uncomfortable. This class explores why real growth means going beyond what feels right and learning to do what is right.
Thursday 22 May
When Regret Falls Short
The Value of Imperfect Repentance
Is repentance still meaningful if we expect to falter again? This class explores the Torah’s nuanced view of partial repentance, showing how even imperfect regret holds value and can restore our discomfort with sin.
Thursday 29 May
Timeless Truths in Torah
Why the Torah’s Teachings Never Expire
At first glance, some of the Torah’s teachings may seem outdated or irrelevant. But beneath their physical application lies an eternal spiritual truth. Explore how the Torah speaks across generations, revealing timeless lessons about the alignment of Heaven and earth and the enduring relevance of its wisdom in every age.
Thursday 5 June
Similar, Yet So Different
How a Fixed Text Reflects Our Changing Hearts
Jewish prayer is communal and fixed, but how can the same words express our unique and shifting needs? This class explores the Torah’s secret to personalizing collective prayer: by investing it with our individual experiences and emotions.
Thursday 12 June
Love Letters to G-d
When Doing a Mitzvah Feels Too Good to Miss
Why do Jews celebrate doing mitzvot: duty, tradition, or something deeper? This class explores the joy of fulfilling G-d’s will, inspired by those who refused to miss the Paschal offering. Discover how each mitzvah delights G-d and transforms our Judaism
Thursday 19 June
Stronger than Angels
Why We Can Thrive Where Even Giants Failed
The spies feared that materialism would overwhelm the Jewish people, just as it had corrupted the fallen angels. But Caleb saw things differently. This class explores why our souls are stronger than angels—and how we can embrace the physical world without losing our spiritual identity.
Thursday 26 June
Love Every Jew, No Exceptions
Why Even the Wicked Deserve Our Love
Is there ever an exception to the mitzvah of loving your fellow Jew? This class explores Moses’s remarkable love for Dathan and Abiram—his lifelong adversaries—and what it teaches about seeing beyond faults to the hidden goodness in every Jew
Thursday 3 July
The Power of Letting Go
Forgiveness, Healing, and the Path to True Unity
Does forgiveness mean withholding punishment, or does it require something deeper? This class explores Moses’s response to the people’s rebellion, revealing that true forgiveness restores unity and helps others heal—just as G-d does for us.
Thursday 10 July
The Strength to Surrender
Why Letting Go Is the Ultimate Power
Strength is often seen as control, but Judaism defines it as surrendering to something greater. Balaam’s prophecy likens the Jewish people to unshakable mountains, rooted in ancestral strength. This class explores why true power lies in self-sacrifice and choosing holiness over convenience.