Torah Studies - Adult Education
A Torah Studies course delving into the modern lessons from the ancient themes of the weekly Parsha.
Torah Studies is a series of stimulating text and discussion-based classes that take place on a weekly basis. These classes will engage and challenge you intellectually, spiritually and emotionally. They explore contemporary issues through a Torah perspective as well as tackling timeless questions in the Jewish tradition.
Each class is a standalone unit, so feel free to come along when you can!
Instructor: Rabbi Mendy Singer.
Registration is free. The student textbook is available on Amazon here.
The classes are held every Thursday at 7:30 pm, in person at Chabad and virtually (without the chicken soup!). Join us on Zoom at www.jewishbristol.com/zoom or watch live on Facebook @ www.facebook.com/chabadbristol.
Weekly: Thursday, 7:30 - 8:30 pm
Thursday, 17 July
Eternal Moments
How the Everyday Connects Us to the Infinite
Daily rituals can feel like a grind, but what if they’re your bridge to the eternal? This class uncovers how the daily sacrifice in the Temple shows us that every moment holds a chance to experience G-d’s infinite light. No special occasion needed.
Thursday 24 July
Leading with Heart
When Leadership Means Feeling the Pain
Leadership isn’t about taking charge—it’s about taking on the pain of those you lead. Learn from Moses and the tribal princes how true leadership grows from empathy, not duty, and why genuine care always leads to action.
Thursday 31 July
Upward Is the Only Option
Stagnation, Even in Holiness, Leads to Regressione Pain
In life and in our relationship with G-d, progress is not optional—it’s essential. This class explores the deeper meaning behind Moses’s rebuke of the Jewish people for lingering at Sinai, and how this teaches us the necessity of spiritual growth and constant motion. Discover why the best time to move forward is always now.
Thursday 7 August
The Unbreakable Bond
The Secret to Our Survival against All Odds
How have the Jewish people remained distinct despite centuries of exile and cultural influence? This class uncovers the deeper force that has preserved Jewish identity—a spiritual resilience implanted by Moses.
Thursday 14 August
Missing Piece That Says It All
What a Single Letter Reveals about Torah, Miracles, and Life
A single missing letter in the Torah might seem minor, but it speaks volumes. This class explores Rashi’s take on a missing vav, revealing how the Torah’s miracles aren’t just supernatural—they shape the physical world, too.
Thursday 21 August
Not Just Me, Myself, and I
Why Your Actions Are Bigger than You
Is what you do really just your business? This class explores a core Jewish idea: Our actions reflect not just on ourselves but on Torah, Judaism, and even G-d Himself. Looking at Rashi’s take on a historic oath, we’ll discover how personal conduct has communal and spiritual implications—and why that matters more than ever.
Thursday 28 August
Wholehearted
Choosing Trust over Certainty
What’s wrong with wanting to know what the future holds? This class explores the Torah’s directive to “be sincere with G-d”—to live with wholehearted trust rather than constant calculation.
Thursday 4 September
Duty Calls
G-d Loves Brute Commitment
This class explores how fulfilling mitzvot out of duty—without passion—still earns G-d’s favor and brings Divine blessing. Discover the power of simple, committed observance.
Thursday 11 September
Motivated by Nature
When Doing the Right Thing Feels Like the Only Thing
You believe in Judaism—but sometimes it’s hard to follow through. This class explores a surprising Rashi, a mystical take on first fruits, and a powerful truth: You already have all the motivation you need. You just have to tap into it.
Thursday 18 September
The Silent Connection
How the Sound of the Shofar Speaks Louder than Words
Rosh Hashanah is more than a new year; it’s a wake-up call to reconnect with G-d. This class reveals how even a mitzvah done on autopilot can spark a profound connection.
Thursday 25 September
When the Smoke Rises
How Your Worst Moments Can Lift You Higher
We all have parts of our story we’d rather leave behind. But on Yom Kippur, the Torah reveals something deeper: Even your lowest moments can become the source of your greatest growth. Discover the hidden message in the cloud of incense that rose in the Holy of Holies—and how it still speaks to us today.
Thursday 9 October
Drunk on Water
The Surprising Joy of Holding Nothing Back
Sukkos is known for its overflowing joy—but the deepest celebration comes not from wine but from water. This class explores the secret of the simchat beit hasho’evah and how real joy doesn’t come from self-expression but from self-transcendence.