Contained on this page is a self-guided study packet containing 10 self-guided study projects for your congregants over Shavuot.
Each topic will offer a unique Torah study experience, with some of our authors offering more specific guidance, and other’s leaving the subject-matter more open to your congregants reflection and interpretation. The essential style, and structure submitted by each Rabbi has been maintained to offer a differentiated learning experience, and to celebrate the diversity of Limmud Torah styles in Batei Kanessiyot across the country.
Should you wish to receive these self-guided studies as word documents so you can include your Shul’s logo, and a personalized letter to your congregants, please contact Rabbi Yechiel Shaffer (shaffery@ou.org), the compiler of the Shavuot 5780 Self-Guided Torah Study Experience.
Out of This World: The Value of Higher Goals in Judaism
By Rabbi Moshe Hauer, Incoming Executive Vice President, Orthodox Union An
Analysis of the Role of the Oral Torah
by Rabbi Elisha Friedman, Kesher Israel Congregation of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
This is a study-guide written in an essay form, analyzing the reasons behind the structure of Torah requiring an Oral law.
OU Shavuot The Oral Law – Elisha Friedman
To Rebuke or Not to Rebuke: That is the Question
by Rabbi Jonathan Muskat, Young Israel of Oceanside, New York
An examination of when to give rebuke and when not to, this article is a combination of self-guided study through the sources, with an in depth conclusion.
OU Shavuot To Rebuke or Not – Jonathan Muskat
What Happened at Sinai?
by Rabbi Hershel Becker, Young Israel of Kendall, Florida
Written in essay form, this study guide offers a number of different approaches to the events at Mt. Sinai.
OU Shavuot What Happened at Sinai – Hershel Becker
A Brief discussion of Tikkun Leil Chatzot
by Rabbi Dovid Asher, Knesseth Beth Israel, Richmond, VA
This study guide presents the sources, and some major questions to consider further in light of the sources comments.
OU Shavuot Tikkun Leil Chatozot – Dovid Asher
Why do we read Megillat Ruth on Shavuot?
by Rabbi Dovid Kaplan, Congregation Ohav Zedek, Wilkes-Barre, PA
Written in Essay form, this guide offers a fresh approach on this ancient story.
OU Shavuot Ruth on Shavuot – Dovid Kaplan
Measuring Success Jewishly
by Rabbi Dr. Mordecahi Schiffman, Kingsway Jewish Center, New York
In analyzing ideas, this study guide offers varying perspectives on Jewish knowledge
OU Shavuot Mordecahi Schiffman
Re-examining Chavruta Learning in the Era of Social Distancing
by Rabbi Dovid Zirkind, Riverdale Jewish Center, New York
This study guide offers a fascinating approach on a number or ideas about Torah study
OU Shavuot Reexamining Chavruta Study – Dovid Zirkind
Angels and Demons
by Rabbi Avi Heller, Orthodox Union, New Jersey
This study guide offers a unique understanding of humanity, through sources and guiding questions
OU Shavuot Angels and Demon – Avi Heller
Why do we wave at the Shabbat Candles?
by Rabbi Yechiel Shaffer, Orthodox Union and Pikesville Jewish Congregation, Maryland
This study guide offers an array of Halachik sources to help shape an understanding to Shabbat candles.
OU Shavuot Lighting Shabbat Candles – Yechiel Shaffer