By COLlive reporter
In a transformative effort to enhance Torah learning in Crown Heights, Irgun Torah has emerged as a beacon of knowledge, offering daily shiurim in Chassidus, Gemara, and Shaar Habitachon.
Spearheaded by Rabbi Avrohom Rotban, this initiative has garnered significant support and participation from community members, both offline and online.
Rabbi Rotban, who moved to Crown Heights five years ago, recognized the community’s need for increased shiurim. Thus, the vision of Irgun Torah was born. One of the primary shiurim introduced was led by Rabbi Fishel Oster, which has been ongoing for three and a half years.
Today, Irgun Torah boasts diverse shiurim, ranging from Gemara to teachings on the need for bitachon in Hashem. Many of these shiurim are conducted in person within the community and accessible online, ensuring broader participation and accessibility.
One notable supporter of Irgun Torah is Rabbi Shlomy Greenwald, a businessman who founded and directs Kolel L’horaah Maasis in Crown Heights. He expressed his admiration for the shiurim and conveyed his desire to contribute personally in the future.
Growing up in a community in California where learning Torah was primarily limited to early morning and nighttime, Greenwald acknowledges that Crown Heights has additional options. “But you can also get lost in such a large community,” he notes.
Between Pesach and Shavuos, Greenwald has presented a daily class on Gemara Maseches Sota, culminating with a festive Siyum last week. “The feedback from the community has been overwhelmingly positive, affirming the significance of Irgun Torah’s mission,” he said.
Avi Boaz, a devoted father of seven children with a demanding work schedule, initially struggled to prioritize Torah learning in his daily life. However, a few days before Pesach, he joined Greenwald’s Gemara class and involved his children in his learning.
Boaz points out that dedicating time to Torah learning often takes a back seat in a world consumed by business and financial pursuits. However, bringing Torah into one’s home and fostering a deeper connection with children is invaluable. Aligning family members toward a common goal of Torah study fosters an environment of growth and unity.
Aaron Sputz, another participant, emphasized the tremendous value and importance of the shiur, expressing his eagerness and gratitude for being a part of it.
“When the shiur started, I put myself to it, and I consider it to be a tremendous advantage,” he said. “It has tremendous importance, and I’m very eager and happy to be part of it.”
Rabbi Rotban shared his ultimate vision for Irgun Torah, emphasizing the desire to increase Torah learning and for individuals to utilize their time and digital devices for regular engagement with Torah teachings.
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For more info, visit irguntorah.org