Psalms - Life's Lessons - 7 Lecture Series

Topics:

On Parents - The Book of Psalms reflects the human condition more than any other book of Tanach, and no relationship defines humanity as much as that between parent and child. Rabbi Wein examines the nature of this all-important relationship, its pervasive influence on our lives and the inevitable rebellion built into it. Most of all, he looks at the relationship that the author of Psalms had with his own parents, highlighting how Dovid Ha Melech overcame the hardship of rejection by his very own father.

On Children - Righteousness is not necessarily a guarantee of righteous children, and the sons of Dovid Ha Melech are prime examples of it. The immorality of Amnon and the attempted coups of Avshalom and Adoniyahu caused their father tremendous agony. Yet despite it all, Dovid Ha Melech prays for his sons, a shining illustration of how parental love can outlast the bitterest of rebellions.

Enemies - Because Dovid Ha Melech was pursued by enemies his entire life, the theme of enemies recurs throughout the Book of Psalms. Resonating strongly in all his appeals to God for help is his steadfast faith. Dovid always accepts that his enemies were sent as agents of God. This unfailing bitachon is the ultimate lesson of the Book of Psalms and indeed the key to getting through life.

Defeats and Disappointments - The problems of life are inescapable, but the Book of Psalms teaches us that these, too, are gifts from God. With stories from the life of Dovid Ha Melech and examples from modern history, we gain proper perspective on our disappointments and learn to face them with equanimity.

Unfairness and Irrationality - The problems of life are inescapable, but the Book of Psalms teaches us that these, too, are gifts from God. With stories from the life of Dovid Ha Melech and examples from modern history, we gain proper perspective on our disappointments and learn to face them with equanimity.

Joy and Triumph - The Book of Psalms tells us to "serve God with joy," but how can we do this, particularly in hard times? In Judaism, joy is not meant to be a fleeting thing, dependent on the vicissitudes of life, but a constant attitude born of the assurance that God is taking care of us. Drawing a fine distinction between triumph and triumphalism, Rabbi Wein explains how keeping our egos in check keeps us happy when we succeed and when we fail.

The Power of Prayer - Prayer is much more than calling out to God when we need Him; it is a means to establishing a relationship. Rabbi Wein delves into the multi-faceted nature of prayer, showing how ordinary Jews, by pouring out their hearts, can actually change the course of fate.