Course Description

There are many stories and laws presented in the Bible that are seemingly problematic. David and Bathsheba, slavery, charging interest, are but a few of the many biblical dilemmas that will be addressed . How does Judaism reconcile these seemingly controversial issues and dilemmas?

Using traditional sources as a guide, Rabbi Weil will tackle some of the most controversial and difficult issues presented in the Bible. His unique style is sure to keep you fascinated and engaged.

New lessons will be added regularly. If you have an interesting dilemma that you would like Rabbi Weil to address. Please email us at: [email protected]

Rabbi Steven Weil

Rabbi Steven Weil is the Senior Managing Director of the Orthodox Union. The son of German “Viehhaendler”, Rabbi Weil grew up on a cattle farm in Upstate New York. His love for learning began early, and as a teenager prevailed upon his parents to send him away to Yeshiva. He continued his education at Kerem B’Yavneh and Yeshiva University, concurrently completing his ordination at the Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan Theological Seminary and a Master’s in Business Administration from NYU’s Stern School of Business. Rabbi Weil began his career teaching, and then began pulpit work; first at the Young Israel of Oak Park, Michigan and then at Beth Jacob Congregation in Beverly Hills, California. In both positions he significantly expanded the synagogue’s membership and programming and was involved in serving the needs of the greater community as well. In 2009 he became the chief executive officer of the Orthodox Union. Rabbi Weil is a master educator, popular teacher and lecturer, having delivered invocations for former President Bush, Governor Schwarzenegger as well as Speaker John Boehner and the House of Representatives among others. He has served internationally as scholar-in-residence on land and on sea, and is a passionate advocate for Israel and for Jewish education. Rabbi Weil resides in New Jersey with his wife and seven children.

Course curriculum

  • 1

    GETTING STARTED

    • How the learning interface works

  • 2

    SLAVERY

    • How does the Torah justify slavery?

    • Sources: Exodus 21, 1-11

  • 3

    CHARGING INTEREST

    • How does the Torah justify charging interest?

    • Sources: Deuteronomy 22, 1-3

  • 4

    THE PURIM STORY

    • Machinations in the Persian Court Part 1

    • Machinations in the Persian Court Part 2

    • Machinations in the Persian Court Part 3

    • The Queen's Infidelity

  • 5

    DAVID & BATHSHEBA: THE WORLD'S MOST INFAMOUS SIN

    • The World's Most Infamous Sin: Part 1

    • The World's Most Infamous Sin: Part 2

    • Sources: Shmuel Bet 11 and 12 + Psalms 51

  • 6

    ANATOMY OF THE WORLD'S FIRST MURDER

    • Motivations, and Ramifications of the Story of Cain and Abel

    • Source: Genesis 4:1-12

    • Additional Content for this Course

  • 7

    THE TORAH'S FIRST RELIGION

    • An Analysis of the Ethical Monotheistic System in which G-d engaged all of humanity

    • More About Rabbi Aaron Lichtenstein PhD.

Reviews

5 star rating

Rachel Tannenbaum

5 star rating

Good

Mike Omoasegun

Very good course.

Very good course.

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