Rabbi completes entire Talmud study

Through study of the Talmud, one encounters a wide spectrum of wisdom and insight, dealing with everything from gardening to proving a criminal’s innocence or guilt, to astronomy, medicine and theology.

To study all the Talmud books in depth is considered one of Judaism’s greatest academic achievements. According to Rabbi Ari Shishler, this was a particularly rare event. “The Talmud comprises 37 volumes of mind-bending legal and philosophical debates,” he said. “It is written in ancient Aramaic, which makes it more challenging to study.

“While religious Jewish schools train their students in the complexity of Talmud study, most people only complete a few volumes of this encyclopedic work in their lifetimes.”

About 200 members of Chabad Strathavon’s community joined Rabbi Finkelstein in celebrating this milestone. Rabbi Eli Silberstein of Cornell University delivered the keynote speech at the event, and focused on the unique approach of Jewish law to inheritance.

He discussed how the laws of inheritance illustrated the unique position of Torah study in Judaism, and concluded by urging the evening’s participants to engage in regular Torah study.

Rabbi Silberstein and his wife, Dr Chana Silberstein also held a breakfast the following day at the centre to celebrate Finkelstein’s achievement. More than 150 people came to hear Rabbi Silberstein discuss money and wealth in Jewish law and mysticism.

His wife Chana, who holds a PhD in educational psychology, spoke on raising children to a higher purpose.

The centre was established by Rabbi Ari and Naomi Shishler to promote Jewish adult education. The centre opened in 2012 and offers classes each week on a variety of Jewish topics as well as seminars, lectures and workshops throughout the year.

Details: www.jewishsandton.com

Like us on Facebook, follow us on twitter – @Sandton_News, or join the conversation on BBM: 2B93B808