Mindfulness in Mitzvot

A look at the mandate not to perform mitzvot in “bundles” – אין עושין מצוות חבילות חבילות – in the talmudic sources

How did the commentators understand the concept of not “bundling” mitzvot? What do we learn about mitzvah performance?

We will look at Moed Kattan 8b, discussing the prohibition against getting married on chol hamoed, and the idea not to mix different joyous occasions אין מערבין שמחה בשמחה

We will explore the concept of אין מערבין שמחה בשמחה – one does not mix one joyous occasion with another

We will explore four principles that mandate doing mitzvot right away (Megillah 20b, Yevamot 39b, Pesachim 68b, and Mekhilta d’Rabbi Yishmael 12:17). What do these rules teach us about mitzvah performance?

A look at the talmudic idea that the entire Jewish people are considered “guarantors” for one another – כל ישראל ערבים זה לזה (Talmud Bavli Shevuot 39a and Rosh Hashana 29a)

Shabbat is not about relaxing, but about resting from creativity. We will look at the context of the laws of Shabbat in the Torah and explore the nature of the prohibitions of Shabbat. We will understand the deeper purpose of Shabbat in our busy lives.

A look at the  Halachot of Preparing for Prayer – preparing the body and mind – that enable us to be present in our Tefillah.

The Laws of Prayer and how they enhance Kavana

What if I am doing a mitzvah and another mitzvah comes my way? Should I interrupt my learning to do a mitzvah? How should I divide my time between Torah and Tefillah? This class explores these questions and seeks to develop a deeper understanding of the roles of Mitzvot, Tefillah, and Talmud Torah in our service of G-d.