Questions for Preparation and Self Study
Questions for Preparation - in Word format
Shiur #1: Sifrei Toladot: The Backbone of Sefer Breishit
Shiur #2:Peshat & Derash in Parshat Noach - text format
Shiur #2:Peshat & Derash in Parshat Noach - Word format

Sifrei Toladot: The Backbone of Sefer Breishit

The Mabul (Flood) and Migdal Bavel (the Tower of Babel) are undoubtedly the two primary stories in this week's Parsha. However, each of these two stories is preceded by a list of genealogies which appear to be rather irrelevant. Why does Sefer Breishit dedicate so much attention to "sifrei toladot" (list of genealogies)? This week's shiur, [better known as the Migdal Bavel 'vort'], serves as an introduction to our study of Sefer Breishit by explaining how its "sifrei toladot" help to form its structure and to develop its theme.

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