Introduction to Torah
A gentle first look at what Torah is, how it is structured, and where a beginner starts.
שְׁמַע יִשְׂרָאֵל ה׳ אֱלֹקֵינוּ ה׳ אֶחָד
Hear O Israel, the L‑rd is our G‑d, the L‑rd is One.
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This guide is a learning aid, not an authority, and it does not speak for the Rebbe — the voice you hear is a plain narrator, not an impersonation. For any question of Jewish law or practice, please speak with a rabbi who can give you an authoritative answer.
Five short lessons
1. What is Torah?
Torah means “instruction.” It is G‑d's wisdom and will, given to Moshe at Mount Sinai — a guide for living a meaningful, G‑dly life.
2. Written & Oral Torah
The Written Torah (Chumash, Prophets, Writings — together TaNaCh) was given with the Oral Torah: Mishnah, Talmud and later teachings that explain it.
3. 613 Mitzvot
The Torah contains 613 commandments. Gematria hint: תורה = 611, plus the first two commandments heard directly from G‑d = 613.
4. Chassidut
The Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe (author of the Tanya) revealed the inner soul of Torah — teaching that every Jew can feel close to G‑d.
5. Where to begin
Learn the weekly Torah portion, say the Shema, give tzedakah daily, and study a little Tanya. “A little light dispels much darkness.”
The Five Books of Moshe
1. Bereishit
Genesis — creation and the Patriarchs
2. Shemot
Exodus — leaving Egypt, Sinai
3. Vayikra
Leviticus — holiness and offerings
4. Bamidbar
Numbers — the journey in the desert
5. Devarim
Deuteronomy — Moshe's final words