06 Dec Short ‘n Sweet; A Guideline to Creating a Dvar Torah
Devarim – ‘The Words’
A Guideline to creating a Dvar Torah
for the table and other occasions.
Inspired by great teachers and speakers such as Harav Yitzchak Ginsburgh, Rabbi Moshe Genuth, Shmuel Veffer.
(PA:3.3) Rabbi Chanina ben (son of) Tradyon said, if two people sit together and do not share words of Torah between them, it is a company of scorners, But if two sit together and therep are words of torah [spoken] between them, the Shechina (Divine presence) abides between them.
Preparing a dvar (words of Torah) each week to share is a meritorious thing to do and a great way to learn and share the Light of Torah?
Sometimes we may find ourselves being asked, or may have a desire to share a dvar Torah. Especially for those of us who have not grown up with this tradition, the following are some suggestions on how to create an effective dvar Torah. It is actual Torah law (as shown above) that where there is a gathering of 2 (3) or more words of Torah should be shared.
The purpose of a dvar Torah is to inspire Torah learning. It’s not a forum for a lecture.
Unless a person is expressly invited to give a lecture, most situations for sharing a dvar Torah are at social occasions such as Shabbos meals, Seudat Shlishit, Brit Milah, Kiddush, Sheva Brachas etc. . Being that these are social occasions, it is wise to choose a topic and point(s) that your audience will appreciate. It is also wise to keep a limit on how long you will speak. 1- 5 minutes is probably a good amount of time. Often less is more when it comes to amount of time for sharing. A meal is a very social time so asking people to sit still, stop socializing and focus on listening to someone talk might compromise an elevated mood or cause discomfort for some (aka a buzz-kill at your table).
A person giving a dvar should have in mind a beginning, middle and end of what you want to say. It’s more important to make one good point than several under developed or tangential ones.
Do they get it? As much as a good speaker speaks, he is also paying attention to the non verbal ques of those present to gauge their connection. When we share our words with others we need to also know if they are being received. Again, consider that there is limited speaking (and listening) time and possibly limited attention span of the guests, so make your time count.
Choosing a topic can come from reading the weekly parsha (it is suggested practice that a person read the parsha three times during the week) and see what jumps out at you. What do you find interesting? It could be a word, a verse or an idea/concept. Then begin to delve into the many commentaries available and develop your thoughts.
What ever you may choose to speak about Make it real… Make it relevant.
Speaking from the mind AND the heart is key. Your connection from you head and your heart will make your words most meaningful, and makes what you are sharing personal and transformative …. ‘Your Torah’.
Additional Considerations…
Personal insights should not contradict Torah sources (ie Halacha, Rashi etc.)
Always check what you will share with a Rabbi to ensure accuracy.
It may be best to steer clear of controversial topics.
Sharing words of Torah is an opportunity to elevate yourself and others.
You can make a difference with your words…
Wishing you Hatzlahcha-Success
Leib Getzel (Lawrence) Lax
Addictions and Counseling
http://www.lawrencelax.com
www.lawrenceJlax@gmail.com