Noahide Fellowship

In the Torah portion Emor, Chapter 24, verses 10-23, the story of the blasphemer, who cursed the name of G-d, is described. Not cursing the holy name of G-d is one of the Seven Noahide Laws, which apply to all people. The root of the prohibition against cursing G-d lies in the fundamental obligation imposed on every created being to recognize the goodness of their Creator and to honor Him. Similar to the natural obligation to honor parents, there is a fundamental obligation upon every human being, by virtue of being created by G-d, to recognize the status of G-d as Creator, Leader of the world, and Sovereign of all creation, and to treat Him with respect and reverence.

The prohibition against cursing G-d is also connected to the right and the obligation to recognize the goodness of G-d, who is the source of all goodness in the world. Every…

Any Noahides in Central Florida?

In this Torah portion, we study the prohibition of "You shall not put a stumbling block before the blind" (Leviticus 19:14). While its simple meaning refers to not placing a physical obstacle before someone who cannot see, its broader interpretation by the Sages extends to not misleading or giving harmful advice to a person who is "blind" in a metaphorical sense – someone ignorant or lacking knowledge in a particular matter. This could apply in areas of religious law, incitement to worship idols, business dealings, or any situation where one person takes advantage of another's lack of understanding to cause them harm or error.

The commandment "You shall not put a stumbling block before the blind," is a specific commandment given to the Jewish people. Rashi, the prominent commentator, says that in any situation where a particular action depends on the inner intention of the person, and there is no…

Upcoming Classes and Shavuot Event

Rabbi discussed the upcoming semester's classes, including Rabbi Cohen's on Hasidus 2 and 4, Rabbi Baruch Simcha's on the Prophet Yona, and Rabbi Berenstein's on Alacha 108. Rabbi emphasized the importance of completing all modules to receive the Master's degree in July. He also mentioned the upcoming Shavuot event and encouraged students to access the course page regularly. Some students raised concerns about their certificates and exam access, which Rabbi promised to address.

Defining Hasidism From Within

In the meeting, Rabbi Yehouda and Leo discussed the introduction to the course on Hasidism, its history, and its connection to Torah. They emphasized the need for a definition of Hasidism from within the Hasidic community, rather than from outside historians. The focus of the course was on the essence of Hasidism, its role within Torah, and its connection with the soul. They also touched on the practical…