Unpack layers of Biblical and rabbinic text to understand the inner mechanics of this sometimes-overlooked but super-important holiday.

It took a trip to Germany and a lot of self-discovery for Eliana to find her place in the Jewish community. Today, together with her husband, she leads a small Jewish community in South Africa.

From everything that happened the day prior to the Giving of the Torah, the Talmud singles out one detail: Moshe built an altar and offered a sacrifice.

G-d is One vs. G-d is the ONLY One: The Doctrine of Perpetual Creation

Each year, the Rebbe would hold a Farbrengen the night before Shavuot, often touching on topics from Tractate Sotah in the Talmud, which is customarily studied during the Counting of the Omer period, as well as discussing the lessons of the approaching holiday.

The Rebbe delivers his annual pre-Shavuos address to women.

How to perform the havdalah ceremony at the conclusion of Shabbat and festivals.

A short overview of the customs and meaning of the holiday of Shavuot, celebrating the giving of the Torah.

An overview of some the unique customs associated with the holiday of Shavuot, along with their practical reasons and spiritual explanations.

We are still “married” to our ideals and spiritual vision; we simply need to be reunited with our true, inner selves.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 110 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Discover how Torah classes given more than a decade ago continue to enrich lives and touch souls.

Watch a taste of Shazak, and discover why we dance on Simchat Torah, and who truly owns the Torah? Geared for kids... Great for adults!

The Mitzvah ATM is about to dispense the Torah in honor of the holiday of Shavuot. One snag, though: It wants trustworthy guarantors...

Watch these simple-to-follow instructions on how to do the mitzvah of wearing a Tallis.

Simple-to-follow instructions on how to light the Shabbat candles.

Jono decides to take on a vow of silence, and stop cutting his hair after over-hearing Itche teaching about special vows in the Torah. Hilarity Ensues.

Discover the 6 steps of spiritual preparation the Jewish People observed at Mt. Siani, over a six-day period prior to the Giving of the Torah, and how you can take these spiritual steps today, as our ancestors did more than 3,300 years ago.

The holidays are spiritual days that “call to us” to stop the ordinary activities of our lives. They also enable us to “call forth” and tap into the spiritual resources that these days hold.

Topics include: Why a person born into Torah observance needs more encouragement than one who chose that way of life; how oxen, sheep and goats represent different types of human egos; and the importance of speaking softly.

We are still “married” to our ideals and spiritual vision; we simply need to be reunited with our true, inner selves.

A taste of Shazak Parsha, where the weekly Torah portion comes alive! Geared for kids... Great for adults!

Jono decides to take on a vow of silence, and stop cutting his hair after over-hearing Itche teaching about special vows in the Torah. Hilarity Ensues.

Confession, as of contrition and repentance, is not always sincere. But even the most insincere confession retains a special power to put one on the right track.

Yesterday, I messed up. I was completely insensitive to someone I love. But here’s what happened afterwards…

Topics include: Why the Levite family of Kehat carried the Ark containing the Tablets, why a Nazarite must allow his hair to grow and may not drink wine, and a mystical explanation as to why we have ten fingers.

The kohanim are commanded to bless the people. What is the meaning of a blessing given by one human being to another?

This class carefully analyzes the proverbial Birkat Kohanim (the priestly blessings), which appear in this week’s Torah portion, Naso. Learn the answers to why an ordinary person’s blessing can be meaningful simply due to ancient genetics, what do the priestly blessings actually mean on a literal level, and finally insight into why we pray for our dreams during the times these blessings are chanted in synagogue.

The Torah’s identical repetition of the Inaugural Offerings brought by Israel’s tribal leaders, serves to make parshat Naso the longest Torah portion. Perhaps more pointedly though, it seems entirely superfluous; especially in view of the Scripture’s sparing nature. Yet, despite this obvious and glaring biblical anomaly; Rashi – our trusted master of mainstream meaning – appears to provide little rationale and no comfort at all. The explanation ultimately sheds light on Torah-true diversity and the importance of every person’s unique contribution in the rubric of spiritual life and divine service.

Learn the profound connections between the weekly parsha and its related Haftorah.

Why did the leaders of the tribes who were so enthusiastic about donating to the Sanctuary make such a limited contribution? This points to the importance of using our talents well. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 28 Naso sicha 2)

The Torah details the different jobs of the three Levite families in carrying the Tabernacle when journeying through the desert. Discover how this symbolizes three models of a Jew’s journey in life.

Torah insists that nothing in this world is extra; everything was created with a specific purpose. In fact, just by virtue of having been created, G-d has declared you an irreplaceable asset in bringing his world closer to a state of perfection. In a fascinating analysis of the Parsha, the Rebbe draws a crucial lesson in the life of a Jew: To achieve your full potential, use your every ability in the service of your Creator.

Learning from the leaders of the twelve tribes at the dedication of the mishkan.

A revealing, Kabbalistic, view of hair. New light on why a married woman, in Torah, covers her hair.

Three perspectives on the definition of Teshuvah and the role of confession. (Based on Likutei Sichos vol. 38, parshas Naso, sicha 1)

“On the second day Netanel Ben Tzuar, the prince of Yissachar, offered. He offered his sacrifice ." (Numbers 7:18-19) Why is the word "offered" (hikriv) written twice? Also, why in the second time it's written is it missing a yud? Discover the connection between the missing yud and the holiday of Shavuot which celebrates the giving of the Torah.

"And it was that on the day that Moses finished erecting the Mishkan, he anointed it, sanctified it, and all its vessels, and the altar and all its vessels." (Numbers 7:1) Learn about the process of readying the newly-built sanctuary for daily use, the inaugural gifts of the tribal princes and the opening ceremonies officiated by Moses.

Study some of the highlights of the weekly Torah portion with insights from various commentaries.

Exploring the weekly reading from the Prophets and its connection the Torah portion of the week.

Learning the story of the birth of Samson.

What we can learn from the way in which Hashem spoke to Moses—with a booming voice that only he could hear.

Be inspired with these exciting videos on Shavuot and the Giving of the Torah

The Torah is more than a history book. It is G-d’s instructions to humanity. It tells us how to maximize our potential on this earth.

“G-d desired to bring merit upon the Jewish people; therefore He gave them Torah and Mitzvos in abundance.” G-d is certain that we will use the great opportunity He offers us to make Him proud. Thus laden with a treasure-load of good deeds, good words and good thoughts, we prepare ourselves to receive the Torah—in all its richness—on Shavuos.

A short overview of the customs and meaning of the holiday of Shavuot, celebrating the giving of the Torah.

The Mitzvah ATM is about to dispense the Torah in honor of the holiday of Shavuot. One snag, though: It wants trustworthy guarantors...

You may already know that the giving of the Torah -- which we celebrate on the holiday of Shavuot -- took place at Sinai. But what is Sinai? The Torah speaks of a wilderness called Sinai as well as a mountain by the same name. What is the difference between the desert and the mountain? And how does that shape our understanding of what happened there years ago?

An overview of some the unique customs associated with the holiday of Shavuot, along with their practical reasons and spiritual explanations.

You may already know that the giving of the Torah -- which we celebrate on the holiday of Shavuot -- took place at Sinai. But what is Sinai? The Torah speaks of a wilderness called Sinai as well as a mountain by the same name. What is the difference between the desert and the mountain? And how does that shape our understanding of what happened there years ago?

A lively discussion of what happened at Mount Sinai when G-d gave the Torah to the Jews. In American Sign Language.

Ask any child what we celebrate on Shavuot, and the obvious answer is the giving of the Torah at Sinai; yet the Torah makes no mention of it. How do we make sense of this glaring omission?

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 52 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

The Jewish people studied Torah and observed its precepts long before they actually became obligated in them at Sinai. Moreover, the Ten Commandments were composed largely of laws already commanded to the non-Jewish world. What, then, was so important about the giving of the Torah at Sinai?

In the Talmud, there is a dispute between the sages as to what date the Torah was given at Sinai. According to one opinion, Moses added an extra day of preparation before the giving of the Torah. How could Moses depart from G-d's timeline?

At the Giving of the Torah, G-d’s voice was heard throughout all of creation proclaiming, “I am the L-rd your G-d Who took you out of Egypt.” Is this really G-d’s greatest accomplishment? Why didn’t He say, “I have created heaven and earth?”

“On the second day Netanel Ben Tzuar, the prince of Yissachar, offered. He offered his sacrifice ." (Numbers 7:18-19) Why is the word "offered" (hikriv) written twice? Also, why in the second time it's written is it missing a yud? Discover the connection between the missing yud and the holiday of Shavuot which celebrates the giving of the Torah.

Why Ezekiel’s vision of the “divine chariot” is the chosen haftorah reading on Shavuos, when it would appear that other scriptural passages that refer directly to the giving of the Torah would make a more appropriate choice, inasmuch as Ezekiel makes no such reference at all! (Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 33, p. 18.)

Study some of the highlights of the weekly Torah portion with insights from various commentaries.

Shavuos celebrates the Giving of the Torah at Sinai. Jews in every generation gather to hear the reading of the Ten Commandments, for on this day they receive renewed strength in their mission to brighten G-d’s world.

Many claim to know what happened millions of years ago. Yet regarding what took place only over 3320 years ago, the giving of the Torah by G‑d, doubt is raised. If you’re in doubt, here’s something to consider.

Study some of the highlights of the weekly Torah portion with insights from various commentaries.

A series of classes on the “Ten Commandments” that were given to the Jewish people at Sinai. Each class focuses on one of the “Ten Commandments.”

Torah tells our parents: "Daddy, Mommy teach ME to your children! I want them to know MY holy words!" We should tell our parents too: "Daddy, Mommy, wouldn't you like to do the greatest and best thing of all for me? Then please teach me Torah.

If one had a disturbingly ominous dream, Halachah allows one to fast even on a Sabbath or Festival – not withstanding the obligation to feast on these days – since the person is distressed over his dream, he would derive 'pleasure' from fasting and not from eating. The one exception to the rule is Shavuot—the Festival of the Giving of the Torah. On Shavuot one must eat! This appears strange, given that all the other festivals celebrate a physical, bodily salvation, whereas Shavuot marks the giving of the Torah—a profoundly spiritual event?! The answer explores the nature of pleasure and the essence of Shavuot. (Likutei Sichos vol. 23 pp. 27)

Explore the earliest sources for why we stay up all night on Shavuot to learn Torah, and discover the real reason for this seemingly misunderstood custom.

The giving of the Torah reconciles the dichotomy in everything and reveals the unifying essence in both the spiritual and the material.

Shavuot, when we received the Torah at Sinai, is the culmination of the Exodus on Passover. Yet, on Passover we stay clear of the smallest amount of chometz, but on Shavuot two loaves of leavened bread were offered in the Holy Temple.

Explore in vivid detail the courageous story of Rut the convert who sacrificed everything to become part of the Jewish People. This text based study of the book of Ruth draws from the classical commentaries and presents its inspirational relevance.

Yaakov Schy spent years living and working in rural Asia, where he discovered that everyone had a tribal identity except for him. That led him to rediscover Judaism.

How we created a Yom Tov out of the day after Shavuos. Analyzing Talmudic sources for the Alter Rebbe’s description of Isru Chag.

What is the essential change from before Sinai to after Sinai with the giving of the Torah?

From everything that happened the day prior to the Giving of the Torah, the Talmud singles out one detail: Moshe built an altar and offered a sacrifice.

Marcus Roberts discusses the little known and highly controversial details of the German occupation and Holocaust on the Channel Islands, with an emphasis on Alderney. He describes the attempts to ignore or minimize the atrocities committed there, and his

Did you know that just before the Torah was given, they experienced their first taste of the revolution the Torah would bring? This we see in Moshe building an altar to bring a sacrifice—the day prior to Shavuuos.

What's the maximum amount of charity you can give? Not all charity is created equal.

Shemitah is a real test of faith, to leave the field fallow the entire year. Yet the words in the verse: "What will we eat during Shemiitah?" is not a question driven by lack of faith.

Choose your neighbors wisely because they’re influence is greater than you imagine.

An incredible insight into the power of the Omer, gleaned from the three layers of the census of the Jewish nation. All from analyzing a Rashi on not counting the Levites in the census.

The positive impact of “great is the righteous and great is his neighbor” is not proportionate to the negative effect of “woe is the wicked and woe is his neighbor”.

Miri and Meni embark on an after-bedtime journey through the universe to discover that there is only G-d.

Watch this cute short on the basics of Lag B’Omer.

Explaining three paradigms behind a law concerning using the new crop for a Mincha offering, teaches that you can't move ahead spiritually before you discipline your inner animal, and yet as we mature in our spiritual development the prerequisites shift.

People mean well. That doesn't mean their advice is right.

A deeper look at why the Rambam in sefer Zemanim deviates from the chronological order of the festival, sheds light on how Yom Tov is relevant and powerful every day, not only on the date it appears on the calendar.

Rabbi Glauberman discusses various complications in determining the weekly Parsha in the Persian period.

Rabbi Brackman presents a talk of the Lubavitcher Rebbe explaining Rashi’s commentary on a verse in Proverbs 15:15.

What is the Torah’s message in ‘Emor’, which simply means to say and speak? It sounds quite generic, yet the instruction is powerful.

Rabbi Reiss provides fascinating background and insight into the famous Purim poem, "Shoshanat Yakov".

The Rambam teaches that honesty in weights and measures is associated with acknowledging the Exodus from Egypt. Don't let your standards slip, even if you think it won't harm anyone else.

Rashi teaches us that bad advice isn't what you think. Here's how to avoid it.

What separates casual dating from a relationship built for marriage? In this episode, we sit down with Mrs. Manya Lazaroff, Co-Director of Chabad TAMU (Texas A&M University) and a public speaker on sober intentional dating, to explore how to evaluate pote

Three things have to happen for food to become impure. They teach us three things about keeping ourselves spiritually safe.

You'd think the more religious you are, the more spiritually protected you are. It's not that simple. Learn the conditions for both susceptibility to impure negative forces and the proper protection against them. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 27, Shemini

The month of Iyar is a time of extraordinary healing both materially and spiritually.

Watch this cute short on the very basics of the holiday of Passover.

Why does the Torah detail tzaraas of houses separately from the other types of tzaraas, namely those on the body and clothing? Uncover how the darkest impurity holds the key to the highest blessings.