The story of Yehuda and Tamar is (according to many the source of the idea of reincarnation in Torah). A discussion on reincarnation. VAYEISHEV 2005 – GILGULIM

The second dream. The second dream of Yosef was about the heavens, involved Yaakov also and seems to follow the first dream. It reflects what would happen to them in Egypt on various levels. The mysticism is that in order to reach the higher level one must first engage birurim which is the lower level…

Why does the Torah repeat what it says in P Vayishlach?

(for beginners). VAYEISHEV 1999 – CHANUKA AND MESIRUS NEFESH

The Malach of Aisav is not allowed to leave until he blesses Yaakov.. He anticipates that Hashem will (in the future) change his name to Yisroel. He also gives him a Bracha. Rashi, Chizkuni, RaDaK, Rabbeinu Bechayey, RaLbaG, Alshich , Chasam Sofer, Maamar (Alter Rebbe). Why Yaakov must keep both names and not give up…

Yaakov slept. Then arose and took what came to his hand and sent it to Eisav as a Mincha (offering). Why did he sleep? What does come to hand mean? Why is it called a Mincha. This class has Chizkuni, Rashi, Ramban, Radak, Abarbanel, Rabeinu Bachaya, Alshich, Maase Hashem, Toras Yonason (Aibeshits), Rikanti, Chassidus (Likutei…

VAYISHLACH 2008 – YAAKOV MEETS EISAVThe SHELA and the Alter Rebbe both explain the meeting between Yaakov and Eisav on a mystical level (also). This class attempts to reveal the brilliance of these two commentaries in the entire story.

(What are Angels? Who did Yaakov send to Eisav? with whom did Yaakov wrestle?). VAYISHLACH 2005 – WHAT ARE ANGELS?