You’ll be amazed to know that more than 1,000 high-quality Torah videos, podcasts, and in-depth courses are just a click away. Aleph Beta’s online Torah videos have reshaped the scene of Jewish learning for adults in our ever-changing digital world.

Torah study goes beyond religious education. Through shared learning, it helps develop life skills and builds stronger communities. The platform’s library includes complete Parsha studies and interactive holiday guides that make Torah learning available and engaging.

We know adult Torah education can be challenging. Our platform makes it easier with features like adjustable playback speeds and offline downloads. The content connects ancient wisdom with modern life in ways that make sense today.

Want to see how Aleph Beta can enhance your Torah learning experience? Let’s take a closer look at this educational platform together.

What is Aleph Beta?

Aleph Beta is a unique Torah media company that blends sophisticated biblical scholarship with modern technology. Founded in 2013, this nonprofit organisation brings an innovative approach to Torah learning through carefully crafted videos, podcasts, and interactive study materials.

History and mission

Rabbi David Fohrman’s story lies at the core of Aleph Beta. His trip from serving as a senior editor at the ArtScroll Talmud Project to teaching Biblical themes at Johns Hopkins University shaped his unique approach to Torah study. Rabbi Fohrman received his rabbinical training at Ner Israel Rabbinical College. His early exposure to Biblical text analysis came from Rabbi Yosef Leibowitz in Northern California.

Rabbi Fohrman spent two decades developing a groundbreaking way to read Biblical text. He focused on patterns, parallels, unique structures, and wordplay. This approach became the life-blood of Aleph Beta’s educational philosophy. He also trained the core team of Torah scholars who share his steadfast dedication to close-reading techniques.

The organisation works as a hybrid between a beit midrash (traditional house of study) and a modern media production studio. Their mission aims to help people build deeper connections with Torah learning through evidence-based, intellectually stimulating, and engaging content.

Key features and offerings

Aleph Beta’s library has more than 1,000 educational resources designed to fit different learning priorities and schedules. Their content portfolio includes:

• Multimedia Resources
  • Beautifully animated videos
  • High-quality podcasts for learning on-the-go
  • Complete understanding courses
  • Printable study guides for partner learning
  • Recorded lectures from Rabbi Fohrman

The platform covers Torah topics of all types:

• Weekly parsha (Torah portion) studies
• Jewish holiday guides and explanations
• Mitzvot (laws) exploration
• Tanakh stories analysis
• Fundamental questions in Judaism

Aleph Beta’s distinctive teaching methodology sets it apart. Each lesson guides learners through biblical text to encourage curiosity and help them find meaning. To cite an instance, see topics like mikvah immersion where they go beyond practical guidelines to uncover deeper meanings and spiritual significance.

Both seasoned Torah scholars and newcomers benefit from the platform. More than 200 schools use Aleph Beta’s content in their classrooms. The platform attracts over 70,000 regular users who access their innovative Torah content through their website and mobile application.

Aleph Beta brings a fresh viewpoint to Torah study. Students learn to approach texts without preconceived notions, which often reveals overlooked meanings in familiar passages. This method shows how ancient wisdom applies to modern life challenges.

More than 10,000 passionate contributors support this nonprofit organisation. This structure helps them focus on their main goal: creating meaningful Jewish learning experiences that address life’s fundamental questions while maintaining high production standards comparable to mainstream media.

Getting Started with Aleph Beta

Aleph Beta provides a well-laid-out, meaningful way to learn Torah. The platform gives you a clear path to its rich library of over 1,100 videos, podcasts, and articles.

Creating your account

You can easily sign up with Aleph Beta through a simple registration process. A free trial gives you full access to their entire content library. Your signup includes:

• Complete streaming access to all videos
• Downloadable study materials and transcripts
• The mobile app for both iOS and Android devices

You can pick from different subscription plans after your trial ends. The Premium membership costs £11.91 per month when billed yearly and unlocks everything. The platform shows its steadfast dedication to accessibility by offering free subscriptions to people facing financial challenges.

Navigating the platform

The platform welcomes you with a clean layout that makes content discovery easy. The library has sections for:

• Weekly Parsha studies
• Holiday-specific guides
• In-depth courses
• Topical explorations
• Podcasts and audio series

You’ll find complete playback controls to pause, rewind, or change viewing speeds based on how fast you learn. Premium members get extra features like:

• Printable transcripts for offline study
• Exclusive webinars with Rabbi Fohrman
• Special Bar/Bat Mitzvah materials
• The chance to share three favourite pieces monthly with non-members

Choosing your first lesson

The large content library might seem overwhelming at first. Aleph Beta’s scholars, Ari and Evan, suggest you start with topics that appeal to your interests. Here’s what they recommend:

1. For Brief Sessions: Weekly parsha videos work best. These 10-20 minute videos are a great way to learn Aleph Beta’s teaching style.
2. For Deeper Study: The holiday content stands out:
   • The Ten Commandments course
   • The Book of Ruth analysis
   • Tisha b’Av materials, including the popular “Rachel’s Tears” series
3. For Complete Learning: The “Brief History of the World” audio series works well. Follow it with “Abraham’s Journey” parts 1 and 2 to cover Genesis’s first 20 chapters systematically.

You can study based on what interests you rather than following strict rules. Study alone, find a chevruta (learning partner), or join group discussions.

Aleph Beta suggests these tips for better learning:

• Schedule regular study time
• Keep notes during lessons
• Join live webinars with Rabbi Fohrman
• Take part in discussion forums

The platform blends curious exploration with careful text analysis. This approach makes Torah study both intellectually rich and spiritually meaningful. Regular practice and involvement with the content will deepen your understanding of Torah interpretation and its modern-day relevance.

Understanding Different Video Types

Aleph Beta’s video library has learning experiences that fit different aspects of Torah study. You’ll find everything from weekly portions to holiday celebrations. Each video type plays a unique role in helping viewers understand Torah better.

Parsha studies

Aleph Beta’s educational content lives and breathes through weekly parsha videos. These animated presentations range from 10 to 20 minutes and take a deep look at Torah portions. Rabbi David Fohrman and his team find hidden connections in the text that give fresh viewpoints on well-known stories.

A recent parsha video about Vayera shows parallel stories of angelic visitors welcomed by Abraham and Lot. These videos reveal subtle patterns and deeper meanings through careful text analysis that might go unnoticed otherwise.

Teachers in Los Angeles, New York, and Israel use these parsha videos in their lessons. Students can:

• Take notes while watching
• Pause for classroom discussions
• Review complex concepts multiple times
• Connect ancient wisdom to modern situations

Holiday guides

Holiday content shines with its detailed look at Jewish festivals and celebrations. These videos look at traditional celebrations through modern eyes. Each holiday guide comes with extra materials. Their Tisha b’Av lesson shows this well by looking at ‘baseless hatred’ through the Kamtza and Bar Kamtza story.

Premium subscribers get access to detailed holiday guides. Some materials remain free:

• Shabbat Guide (Parts 1-3)
• Book of Ruth Bible Study Guide for Shavuot
• Hanukkah Family Activity Booklet
• Tu BiShvat Guide

Purim content on the platform surpasses basic storytelling. One example looks at Mordechai’s refusal to bow before Haman and uncovers biblical parallels that change how we understand this key moment.

Beth lessons series

Beth lessons series brings a fresh take on Hebrew language instruction. These well-structured videos teach Biblical Hebrew naturally, just like children learn their first language. The series stands out with:

• No prerequisite knowledge required
• Visual and auditory learning components
• Self-paced instruction
• Universal accessibility across languages
• Child-friendly content suitable for homeschooling

The series has 66 lessons that build on each other while keeping viewers interested through animated content. Students develop a natural feel for Hebrew without memorising endless rules or lists.

Beth series fits naturally with Aleph Beta’s bigger educational goals. Students learn tools for independent Torah study and can work directly with original texts. This matches Aleph Beta’s mission to promote deeper Torah learning through evidence-based, thought-provoking content.

Teachers see real benefits from using these different video types. A Judaic Studies teacher at Shalhevet School noticed that both students and teachers benefit, saying she “learned as much as her students” through the platform. Visual learners especially benefit from this multimedia approach, which adds new ways to teach Jewish education effectively.

Making the Most of Video Features

Getting the most out of Aleph Beta means becoming skilled at using its advanced video features. The platform gives you tools that boost your Torah study sessions. You can focus better on understanding the deeper meanings in each lesson.

Playback controls

The video player comes with advanced playback options that match your learning style. Students can adjust viewing speeds to match how fast they understand. This helps when you review complex concepts or study detailed textual analyses.

Aleph Beta lets families cast lessons to bigger screens for group viewing. This setup encourages group discussions and creates an open learning space. The background play option lets you keep listening while using other apps.

Rabbi Fohrman’s teaching style includes planned pauses that give viewers time to:

• Process new information
• Think over thought-provoking questions
• Study biblical texts on their own
• Create personal interpretations

Note-taking tools

Good Torah study needs active participation with the material. Aleph Beta helps through its complete note-taking features. Premium members get:

• Printable lecture outlines
• Complete video transcripts
• Teacher guides with discussion prompts
• Exclusive course materials

Musical breaks in videos give natural pause points to write down thoughts or questions. These breaks let learners:

1. Write down personal insights
2. Look up biblical texts
3. Get ready for discussions
4. Keep track of progress

Teachers can use these tools in their classrooms. They can prepare intro materials before showing videos and pause at key moments to get students involved. Later, they help students use the lessons in their daily lives.

Downloading for offline viewing

Torah study shouldn’t stop because of poor internet. Aleph Beta lets you access its huge content library offline. This helps during Shabbat study sessions or travels when streaming isn’t an option.

You can download different types of content:

• Video lectures
• Audio podcasts
• Study materials
• Course outlines

Premium members create their collections and save favourite lectures for quick access. This system helps build a learning path that matches their interests and goals.

The mobile app works on both Apple and Android devices and connects naturally with your account. You can keep learning while:

• Going to work
• Travelling abroad
• Studying where the internet is limited
• Getting ready for Shabbat talks

Aleph Beta suggests setting specific times to study. Create a quiet space where you can focus on the videos instead of multitasking. Finding a study partner can also help you understand better through discussions.

The platform’s dedication to quality shows in both content and user experience. With more than 1,100 videos and podcasts, these features make sure technical issues never get in the way of Torah learning. They serve as tools to deepen your understanding and connection with the text.

Building a Study Routine

A successful Torah study routine with Aleph Beta needs careful planning and commitment. The platform gives you tools and features that help you make steady progress in your spiritual journey.

Setting learning goals

Clear objectives are essential for Torah study success. Aleph Beta’s library of over 1,000 videos and podcasts lets you customise goals based on what interests you spiritually. Students can focus on:

• Understanding weekly parsha interpretations
• Learning holiday meanings and traditions
• Developing Hebrew language proficiency
• Becoming skilled at biblical text analysis

The platform pushes for active participation instead of just watching. Teachers often split classes into groups and start discussions to compare different interpretations and ideas. This method helps students understand better and remember what they learn.

Creating a schedule

Your learning time needs good structure to see consistent progress. Aleph Beta fits different lifestyles with flexible scheduling options. Teachers have found these approaches work well:

1. Daily Study Sessions
   • Set specific times for video lessons
   • Get introductory materials ready beforehand
   • Make time for post-video discussions
   • Review key points through transcripts
2. Homework Integration
   • Give videos to watch at home
   • Use class time to build skills
   • Understand spiritual meanings together
   • Use lessons in daily life

The mobile app helps build regular study habits with features like daily chapter prompts and streak tracking. This game-like element keeps learners motivated to stay connected with Torah texts.

Tracking progress

You’ll stay motivated and spot areas to improve by watching your learning progress. Aleph Beta gives you several tracking tools:

Digital Tools:

• Streak tracking showing consecutive days of study
• Note-taking features to capture insights
• Voice recording for personal reflections
• Weekly PDF exports of study notes

The Read the Torah app helps track progress through:

• Daily chapter reading plans
• Achievement celebrations
• Free reading options
• Text and voice note capabilities

Many users keep simple notes of:

• Completed texts and courses
• Study partners and groups
• Learning dates and durations
• Topics they’ve mastered

The platform adjusts streak calculations for Shabbat automatically when enabled. This feature lets learners keep their progress while respecting religious practices.

Teachers get extra resources with educator accounts:

• Unlimited viewing access
• Printable lecture outlines
• Video transcripts
• Teacher guides
• Early access to new courses
• Student sub-account management

These tools help teachers create structured learning environments while staying flexible for each student’s needs. The platform values deep understanding over rushing through content.

Connecting with Other Learners

Students worldwide make Torah study through Aleph Beta more rewarding by sharing their experiences. The platform has built a vibrant community of over 180,000 users who support and inspire each other.

Discussion forums

Students can exchange meaningful Torah insights in the platform’s discussion spaces. These forums let learners talk actively and share their views on topics from weekly parsha interpretations to holiday celebrations.

Aleph Beta’s discussion environment focuses on:

• Students finding answers through guided questions
• Learners exchanging meaningful ideas
• Torah understanding that grows through dialogue

Members explore topics that challenge their view of life, Torah, and everything between. Rabbi Fohrman’s latest Torah research often sparks deep learning experiences through these discussions.

Study groups

The platform brings traditional Torah study partnerships to life through its chavrutah (small learning groups) programme. These close-knit study circles give students several benefits:

1. Structured Learning Environment
   • Regular meeting schedules
   • Focused discussion topics
   • Shared accountability
   • Collective progress tracking
2. Interactive Study Methods
   • Group video viewing sessions
   • Source sheet discussions
   • Collaborative text analysis
   • Shared insights documentation

Students can study alone or gather with friends to discuss insights. This flexibility lets everyone learn their way while staying connected to the wider community.

Sharing insights

Aleph Beta creates many ways to share knowledge beyond formal study groups. Premium subscribers can share three favourite content pieces monthly with non-members. The platform also hosts special events where learners can:

• Meet Rabbi Fohrman in person
• Participate in trivia game nights
• Join dinner gatherings in Israel
• Attend drinks meetups in New York

Patrons Circle members get more chances to participate in the community. These members help shape Biblical learning’s future as key parts of Aleph Beta’s mission. Their support aids:

• Development of new content
• Platform improvements
• Community outreach programmes
• Educational initiatives

Teachers get extra tools to help with group learning. They can pause videos at key moments to spark classroom discussions and encourage students to participate. Classes can split into smaller groups to understand video content together before joining wider class talks.

Real-world connections matter just as much as online ones. Regular meetups and events help members connect with fellow Torah enthusiasts. These gatherings often include talks about Aleph Beta’s methods, parenting insights, trauma recovery, and life’s deeper meanings.

Aleph Beta’s community features turn Torah learning from a solo activity into a shared trip of discovery. Students find many ways to deepen their understanding through meaningful connections, whether in online forums, study partnerships, or face-to-face gatherings.

Conclusion

Aleph Beta is a powerful gateway to meaningful Torah study with its large collection of interesting videos, podcasts, and interactive content. Rabbi Fohrman’s unique teaching style and the platform’s user-friendly features make ancient wisdom available and relevant to modern learners.

You can build a consistent Torah study routine with all the tools you need, whether you prefer studying alone or in groups. The platform tracks your progress to keep you motivated. Discussion forums and study groups let you share insights and deepen your understanding.

Aleph Beta changes Torah learning from solo study into an enriching learning experience. You’ll build a deeper connection with Torah wisdom that goes way beyond traditional methods through careful text analysis, thought-provoking discussions, and regular interaction with fellow learners.

Your Torah learning experience starts here. The platform gives you powerful study tools, interesting content, and a supportive global community ready to explore sacred texts with you.

FAQs

1. What is Aleph Beta and how does it approach Torah learning? 

Aleph Beta is a Torah media company that combines biblical scholarship with modern technology. It offers over 1,000 videos, podcasts, and courses that focus on close reading of biblical texts, uncovering patterns and deeper meanings to make Torah study intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging.

2. How can I get started with Aleph Beta? 

To begin, simply create an account on the Aleph Beta website. They offer a free trial period with full access to their content library. After the trial, you can choose a subscription plan. The platform is easy to navigate, with content categorized into weekly Parsha studies, holiday guides, and deep dive courses.

3. What types of video content does Aleph Beta offer? 

Aleph Beta provides various video types, including weekly Parsha studies that examine Torah portions in-depth, comprehensive holiday guides that explore Jewish festivals, and the Beth lessons series for learning Biblical Hebrew. These videos are designed to cater to different learning preferences and schedules.

4. How can I make the most of Aleph Beta’s video features? 

Aleph Beta’s video player offers advanced playback options, including adjustable viewing speeds and casting capabilities. The platform also provides note-taking tools, printable transcripts, and the ability to download content for offline viewing. These features allow you to personalise your learning experience and study effectively.

5. Does Aleph Beta offer ways to connect with other learners? 

Yes, Aleph Beta fosters a community of learners through various means. They have discussion forums where users can share insights and engage in dialogue about Torah topics. The platform also supports study groups and chavrutah (learning partnerships). Additionally, they organise events and meetups for members to connect in person and discuss their learning experiences.