Advisement & Selection of Courses

Students develop individualized programs reflecting advanced placement and transfer credits, where appropriate, in consul-tation with faculty advisors. The Yeshiva Program has three levels of study: Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced. Placement will be determined by testing of previous knowledge in Judaic studies. All courses are instructed in English; texts of study are in Hebrew or Yiddish.

Beginners: No previous knowledge required.
Intermediate: Basic knowledge of Hebrew and Judaic studies required.
Advanced: Background in Hebrew, Yiddish, Tanach, Chassidus, and Halacha are required.

Grades

Students are expected to maintain at least a B average in their studies. Class attendance will be considered (along with timely completion of all required course work, i.e., assignments, term papers and scheduled examinations) in determining term grades.

Incompletes

A grade of INC (incomplete) indicates that no grade for the course has been submitted because the requirements have not been met. Students have one semester from the final session of a course to complete the work for that course. Failure to complete the work will result in removal of the course from the student's record at the end of that time. Students must specifically request the privilege of taking an incomplete; only those who have successfully completed at least half of the course work by the end of the semester are able to request an incomplete. Excessive absence will result in a grade of either INC or no credit.

Leave of Absence/Continuing Matriculation

Occasionally, circumstances obligate students desiring a degree to take a leave of absence from their studies. Those students are required to complete a "Leave of Absence/Continuing Matriculation" form. Any student who does not register for new course work and who does not complete the "Leave of Absence/Continuing Matriculation" form will be presumed to have lost interest in pursuing her degree. Students who wish to return to Machon Chana after a period of such inactivity will be required to re-apply. In any case, students will be allowed to remain "on leave" only for a maximum of six consecutive semesters (excluding summers). Students seeking reactivation after more than six semesters have elapsed will be required to reapply.

Certification

Courses at Machon Chana may be taken for credit or audited for personal growth. The Certificate of Advanced Jewish Studies is awarded to those who have completed all the requirements of the two-year full-time course. and is recognized by Hebrew day schools in the United States and throughout the world.

By completing an additional two months of study in Israel, students holding a Machon Chana Teaching Certificate may earn an official teaching degree certified by the Israeli Board of Education.

Distribution Requirements for a Certificate in Advanced Jewish Studies

The Certificate in Advanced Jewish Studies is awarded to those who have completed all the requirements of the two-year, full-time program.  Credits are given for each course. 

Core Program

Biblical Studies
Chassidic Philosophy
Jewish Law/Talmud
Ethics/Jewish Thought
Women's Studies
Jewish Home
Sichos
 

Electives

Advanced Biblical Studies

Chavrusa Program

Independent Study

Our Jewish Heritage

Advanced Ethics Courses

Talmud

Summer Courses

Course Descriptions

COURSE CODE LEGEND

LETTER:

B Biblical Studies
P Chassidic Philosophy
J Jewish Law (Halacha)/Talmud
T Liturgy (Tefillah)
E Ethics/Jewish Thought

W Women's Studies/Jewish Home
O Our Jewish Heritage

L Language
S Sichos in Yiddish
PS Psychology

FIRST NUMBER:
1 Beginners
2 Intermediate
3 Advanced

SECOND NUMBER:

Biblical Studies:

1 Chumash

2 Parsha

3 N'viim (Prophets)

4 Kesuvim (Later Biblical Writings)

Chassidic Philosophy:

1 Tanya

2 Mamaarim

Jewish Law:

1 Kitzur Shulchan Aruch

2 Shulchan Aruch HaRav

Ethics:

1 Redemption

2 Pirkei Avos

3 13 Principles of Faith

4 Chassidic Way of Life

Others:

1 Standard Text for that particular subject

0 No specific text

THIRD NUMBER:

1 First Semester

2 Second Semester

BIBLICAL STUDIES

Written Torah (Tanach)

The Torah is composed of two parts; the Written Torah and the Oral Torah, both imparted by G-d to the Jewish People on Mount Sinai. The Chumash (Five Books of Moses or Pentateuch), Nevi'im (Books of the Prophets), and Kesuvim (Books of Writings) comprise the Written Torah.

Chumash (Biblical Studies)

Chumash is taught with the goal of providing students with proficiency in Biblical Hebrew and the analytical skills for deciphering text. Therefore, intermediate and advanced courses are conducted in small groups, with time allotted for individual study and preparation under the guidance of a mentor. Beginner's level Chumash includes textual study and an overview of the weekly Torah portion throughout the year.

• Chumash
  B111 - 3 credits

B112 - 3 credits
Prerequisite or taken concurrently: Hebrew Reading

This introduction to the Chumash, through the study of selected chapters, is designed for students with no previous knowledge of the Hebrew language. Relevant classical commentaries will be discussed to introduce the student to the many levels of meaning of the Hebrew text.

• Chumash
  B211 - 3 credits
  B212 - 3 credits

Sequel to Chumash I, this course is aimed at developing the student's ability in reading and comprehending the unique script of Rashi, the classical Jewish commentator of the Torah, and understanding his expeditionary method. Alternate selections of Chumash will be studied.

• Chumash
  B311 - 3 credits

B312 - 3 credits

Those who have mastered beginner's Rashi will study further selections from the Chumash in depth. Primary aim will be to develop the student's comprehension of great Torah commentators in addition to Rashi, such as Ramban, Sforno, Or HaChaim, and Kli Yakar.

• Parsha
  B121 - 1 credit

B122 - 1 credit

A study of the Parshas Hashavua with Rashi, and an exploration of basic concepts and Midrashim on the weekly Torah portion. This course familiarizes the student with all of Chumash.

• Parsha
  B221 - 1 credit

B222 - 1 credit

A deep analysis of the weekly portion expounded by Chassidic sources and insights. In keeping with the Alter Rebbe's directive "to live with the times," this course provides lessons in how to live one's life, week by week.

Nach (Prophets and Writings)

A study of the various commentaries will provide knowledge and understanding of the Nevi'im and Kesuvim, with a view to understanding the ethical issues raised and their application today.

• Nevi'im Rishonim
  B131 - 1 credit

B132 - 1 credit

Textual study of the Book of Yehoshua, which covers the period spanning the Exodus from Egypt to the capture and settlement of the land of Israel. Rashi, Midrash, and other commentaries are studied.

• Nevi'im Rishonim
  B231 - 2 credits

B232 - 2 credits

Textual study of the Book of Shoftim, covering the history of the Jewish people during the period of the Judges. Includes student preparation of Rashi and commentaries.

• Nevi'im Achronim
  B331 - 1 credit

B332 - 1 credit

Prerequisite: Some knowledge of Biblical Hebrew; prior courses in Nevi'im

Textual study of the books of Shmuel, covering the reigns of Kings Shaul and David. Rashi, Midrash, and various commentaries are studied.

• Haftorah
  B132 - 1 credit

During a period in history when Jews were forbidden to read the weekly Torah portion on Shabbos, a chapter of Nevi'im was read each week instead. This practice continued even after Torah was no longer forbidden, and thus was born the concept of the Haftorah. A study of the weekly Haftorah as it relates to the Parsha and to our lives today.

• Megillos
  B142 - 1 credit

Megillos Esther and Ruth, read on Purim and Shavuos, respectively, are dramatic testimonies to the unique power and greatness of women. The megillos are studied with a view to understanding the prototypical roles of these two outstanding female figures, in the context of the larger religious themes.
* This course satisfies the requirement for Women's Studies.

• Koheles
  B241 - 1 credit
  A textual study of the moral and ethical ideas in the Book of Koheles by King Shlomo, and their application for the contemporary Jew as explained by the various commentaries for the contemporary Jew.
• Mishlei
  B242 - 1 credit

Prerequisite: Knowledge of Hebrew; prior courses in Nevi'im.

A textual study of the moral and ethical ideas in the Book of Mishlei and their application for the contemporary Jew, as explained by the various commentaries.

Oral Torah

When the Written Torah was transmitted, so were certain explanations, rules, reasons and laws. Only when this, the Oral Torah, was in danger of being lost (after the exile of the Jews from Israel) was it recorded. In addition to the Mishna and Talmud ( Gemorah ), all other divinely inspired material that has accumulated through the ages is included in the Oral Torah.

Halacha (Jewish Law)

Halacha is the study of the relationship between man and G-d, achieved through specific conscious acts, called Mitzvos, which serve to bring order into man's life and sanctity into the world. Performance of the Mitzvos involves a system of laws governing man's relationship not only with G-d, but also with himself, to others, and with the world.

• Halacha
  J111- 2 credits

J112- 2 credits

Using the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch as a guide, the course will cover all Halachos pertinent to the daily life of a Jew.

• Halacha
  J221 - 2 credits

A more extensive scholarly study of the laws of Shabbos, such as Muktzah, objects which cannot be touched on Shabbos, carrying on Shabbos, as well as an in-depth study of the laws of cooking on Shabbos.  The Shulchan Aruch Harav is the primary text.

• Halacha
  J222 - 2 credits

The Jew is required, with regard to particular acts, to utter thanks to G-d, thereby maintaining conscious appreciation of the physical gift, and of G-d the Giver. This course is designed to familiarize students with these blessings and the circumstances in which they are recited. The Rav's Shulchan Aruch is the course text.

• Halachos of Family Purity
  J300 - 2 credits

Marriage represents the highest union that exists within Torah. The renowned strength of the traditional Jewish family is in large part attributed to strict adherence to the laws that Torah sets for governing marital relations. These laws and their meaning are taught in depth.
 

Talmud

The Talmud, also known as Gemorah, is a composite of practical law, logical reasoning, analytical argumentation, and moralistic teachings, all of which serve to help clarify the Torah.

• Talmud
  J131- 1 credit

J132- 1 credit

This course begins with selected portions of Ein Yaakov, the Aggadic portion of Talmud.  The classic method of Gemorah study is used.  The course then moves into more standard Gemorah study.

• Talmud

J232 - 1 credit

Advanced Gemorah Study

Tefillah (Liturgy)

As a channel of communication between man and G-d, prayer is integral to Jewish life. It is a service of the heart and an expression of the Jew's striving for closeness to his Creator. By ascending the four rungs of the ladder of prayer, as clarified by Chassidus, the Jew undergoes spiritual refinement, bringing him closer to G-d.

• Tefillah
  T111 -

The structure and meaning of the prayers contained in the Siddur (daily prayer book) are studied. Their function in reinforcing the basic principles of Jewish faith, as well as their timeless relevance, will be reviewed with the aim of enabling the student to participate comfortably in the service.

• Tefillah
  T212
  Prerequisite: T111

This course explores the origins and goals of the Shabbos and Holiday prayers as enlightened by Chassidic thought, with the aim of enabling the student to participate in the service.

• Davening (Prayer)
  T100 -

An optional class offered during the time allotted for morning services in which an instructor leads the class in oral prayer. Through practice, the student acquires the knowledge and speed required to daven independently.

WOMEN'S STUDIES/JEWISH HOME

The Jewish Home courses study and analyze in-depth the laws and expectations of the Jewish woman in her home and in society.

• Jewish Home
  W111 - 2 credits

W112 - 2 credits

A foray into the Talmudic, Chassidic, and Midrashic sources and their explanations of the unique qualities of women, which facilitate the fulfillment of their lofty role in Judaism. Students are encouraged to submit questions and other material for scrutiny.

• Jewish Home
  W211 - 2 credits

W212 - 2 credits

A further analysis of such concepts as modesty, "Shalom Bayis" (family harmony), dating, marriage, the laws of family purity, social relationships.
 

Jewish Home Economics

W101

W102

A hands-on course learning practical skills for the Jewish home.

Jewish Women of the Bible

H111 - 1 credit

H112 - 1 credit

A textual analysis of Jewish women of the Bible.  This course takes students o a journey of self-discovery through the lives and actions of the Jewish matriarchs and prophetesses.

Jewish Thought & Ethics

Torah as G-d's blueprint of creation contains the structure and guidance for all areas of life. The Jew as the epitome of creation has the capacity and obligation to aspire to the characteristics of his Creator. Selected Torah and rabbinic sources are examined as an insight to proper social, moral and legal behavior.

• Redemption and Moshiach
  E111- 1 credit

E112- 1 credit

From ancient times to the present, Jews have believed in Moshiach and the Messianic Age. But who is Moshiach, and what will the age of redemption be like? Students will study Torah and Chassidic sources which offer insights and preparation in light of the imminence of the redemption.

• Redemption and Moshiach II
  E211- 1 credit

E212- 1 credit

A further study of the End of Days, the World to Come, and Moshiach.

• Pirkei Avos
  E131 - 1 credit

E132- 1 credit

Textual study of selected chapters of the Ethics of our Fathers and their application to interpersonal relationships, with profound insights into human nature.

• Yediah Klalis / General Knowledge
  E101- 1 credit

E102- 1 credit

This course covers the Jewish calendar, fundamental Torah concepts and principles and an overview of the life cycle.

• Thirteen Principles of Faith
  E142 -1 credit

Maimonides formulated Thirteen Principles, which represent the core beliefs of Judaism. Beginning with the belief in the creation of the world and continuing through the belief in eventual Messianic Redemption, all Thirteen Principles are explored. The original Hebrew text, plus commentaries, is used throughout the course.

• Chassidic Way of Life
  E121 - 1 credit

A glimpse into the lives of outstanding Chassidim and their quest for refinement and closeness to G-d. A look at Chassidus as compared to other ideologies and a study of the Chassidic way of life.

Chassidic Philosophy: Chassidus

Kabbalah, the mystical aspect of Torah, was made accessible by presentation in philosophical terms in the early 18th century by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi in his monumental work, the Tanya. By emphasizing and amplifying the capacities of love and awe by which man is enjoined to serve G-d, the Tanya facilitates the spiritual strivings of the contemporary Jew. Succeeding Rebbeim (Chassidic leaders), including the Lubavitcher Rebbe, have applied this system of thought, known as Chabad Chassidus, in expounding the path of Torah in Ma'amorim (discourses) and Sichos (essays).

• Chassidus
  P111 - 3 credits

An introduction to Chabad Chassidus, by way of the "Tanya", the seminal masterpiece of Rabbi Schneur Zalman: the nature of the Jew's two souls competing for good and evil and resolution of this conflict toward mastery of the self. The first 19 chapters are covered.

• Chassidus
  P112  - 3 credits
  Prerequisite: P111

This course is the sequel to Chassidus P111 and further analyzes the underlying infinite love every Jew has for G-d, by virtue of his divine soul. Also analyzed are: how to attain simcha (happiness) and how to develop one's innate love for G-d. Selected chapters from the second half of Tanya are studied.

• Chassidus
  P221 - 3 credits

A variety of pivotal topics of Jewish faith, such as Divine Providence, creation of the world, and Cosmic Unity, have been expounded in Maamorim which will be studied in this course from the Hebrew text. In addition to broadening one's knowledge of Chassidus, special emphasis will be placed on developing the student's capacity for learning a Maamor independently.

• Chassidus
  P222  - 3 credits

A study of selected Maamorim from the Alter Rebbe covering central themes in Chassidic philosophy. Likutei Torah and Torah Or are the texts used for this advanced course.

• Chassidus

P311 - 3 credits

P312 - 3 credits

Knowledge of Chassidus and Hebrew textual study of the second Book of Tanya, "Shaar Ha'Yichud V'HaEmunah", which explores the Chassidic concepts of the unity of G-d and this world, resolving the paradox of G-d's transcendence and His eminence. This course will also teach, "Iggeres Hatshuva," the third Book of Tanya, which discusses the different levels of Tshuva.

Our Jewish Heritage

• Biblical beginnings

O101 - 1 credit

O102 – 1 credit

Creation of the world; exodus from Egypt and the establishment of the Jews as a nation; the giving of the Torah; settlement of the Land of Israel; and construction and eventual destruction of the First and Second Temples are all highlights of this survey of the initial stage of Jewish heritage. Although it is primarily a lecture course, there will be assigned readings in Hebrew and English.

·         Torah contributions of the Jews in their respective societies.

O201 - 1 credit

Exile from Israel to Babylon; exile from Israel to Rome; codification of the Oral Law beginning with the Mishna through Rabbi Caro's Shulchan Aruch; Sefardic Jews in North Africa and Spain; and Ashkenazic Jews in Western Europe. This course will highlight the extraordinary Torah contributions of the Jews in their respective societies.

• From Haskalah to israel
  O202 - 1 credit

Beginning with the 16th century, this course focuses on the tumultuous events which occurred in and around the Jewish communities in Europe, including false messiahs, pogroms, the Russian Revolution, The Haskalah (Enlightenment) Movement, World Wars I and II, and the resettlement of Jews in the United States and Israel.

Sichos in Yiddish

Drawing from the wellsprings of Chassidus, the Lubavitcher Rebbe derived a specific message for the contemporary Jew from each weekly Torah reading and from particular Jewish holidays. Basic Chassidic concepts for daily life and fluency in Yiddish reading, vocabulary, and grammar are developed.

• Sichos

S111-1 credit
S112-1 credit

Selected sichos from Books I and II will familiarize the student with the fundamental Chassidic concepts. The student learns to read and understand the Yiddish text and acquire a grasp of Yiddish grammar and vocabulary.

• Sichos

S211 - 2 credits
S212 - 2 credits

Advanced volumes of Sichos will be explored, penetrating into deep, complex concepts; further development of Yiddish will facilitate independent study of Yiddish text.

• Rashi Sichos
  S311 - 1 credit

A study of the Rebbe Shlita's unique approach in analyzing Rashi introduces the student to the many levels of meaning of this foremost commentator of the Chumash.