Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum, a native of Denmark, is the founder and director of Midreshet B’erot Bat Ayin. She holds a Bachelor of Education in Bible and Jewish philosophy from Michlalah – Jerusalem College for Women, and a Masters of Art in Jewish history from Touro College. For more than two decades Rebbetzin Chana Bracha has taught Bible studies with special emphasis on women’s issues in Israel and the United States. She creates curricula emphasizing women’s spiritual empowerment through traditional Torah values. Rebbetzin Chana Bracha has a married son and two granddaughters and lives with her husband and younger son on the land of the Judean Hills, in Israel.
Video Recordings of Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum
Your Name Calls The Secret of Your Soul Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum, author of Women at the Crossroads: A Woman's Perspective on the Weekly Torah Portion, examines the mystical connection between one's hebrew name and her inner essence. Part 2 begins with a look at the biblical character of Ruth.
The Torah Tells Us: You Are What You Eat KosherTube.com
Nutrition is a holy theme dating back to the Garden of Eden. Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum of Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin explains the Torah view of good eating. Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4
Adar, Why Is It The Month Joy, Why Do We Laugh? Rebbitzen Chana Bracha Siegelbaum of Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin explains the inner meanings of the month of Purim why laughter is a religious experience. Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3
Colors of the Soul, Kabbalistic Views on G-d's Spectrum Rebbitzen Chana Bracha Siegelbaum of Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin explains the inner meanings of colors and the Kabbalistic understanding of various colors. Part 1 |Part 2
The Olive's Spiritual and Physical Curative Powers Rebbitzen Chana Bracha Siegelbaum of Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin explains the inner meanings of the 7 fruits of Israel. Part 1
Upcoming Books by Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum
Here is what Rabbi Lazer Brody has to say about Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum's upcoming cookbook:
A Taste from the Wellsprings:
Wholesome Spirited Eating With Torah Teachings on Nutrition & Health by Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum
4 Nissan, 5768
With Hashem’s loving grace, I was privileged to read the exquisite manuscript of Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum’s new cookbook with a Torah orientation. In essence, calling this book a cookbook is like calling a wedding challa a loaf of bread. Rebbetzin Siegelbaum, one of this generation’s foremost educators, has skillfully prepared a guidebook that no Jewish kitchen should be without. In a clear, concise, and reader-friendly manner, she covers such important topics as practical Halacha in the kitchen, eating healthy, checking food for insects, wasting food, and eating in holiness. She also adeptly addresses the deeper aspects of blessings and proper intent in eating. Especially helpful is the compendium of the Rambam’s health and eating guidelines which she has included also.
I am happy to give my wholehearted endorsement to this wonderful book. May Hashem bless Rebbetzin Siegelbaum with success in this project and in all her other endeavors, and may she see gratification from her loved ones and her pupils always.
In eager anticipation of the full redemption of our people in our beloved Eretz Yisrael,
Eishet Chayil– A Woman of Valor
Unattainable Ideal or Reality?
Why is the “Eishet Chayil” compared to pearls rather than gold, diamonds and rubies? What does the allegorical meaning of the “Eishet Chayil” teach us about women? Why is it a custom to sing the verses of the “Eishet Chayil” on Shabbath night?
Through analysis of the text we will discuss the delicate balance between wife/motherhood and career, relationship between husband and wife, and the comparison between the Jewish women’s role in her home and the role of the Cohen Gadol in the Temple.
Mothers of Connection
Repairing the Schism between the Children of Rachel and Leah
The way to peace and redemption is around the corner, yet Israel is lacking unity more than ever. How do we find the path out of the darkness to repair the contention between the different segments of our bewildered people? Through deep analysis of relevant Torah passages, this shiur will shed light on the personalities of Yosef and Yehudah and the gifts they received from their mothers. The texts will demonstrate how exile is a result of disengagements between these two archetypal characters and how the final redemption is contingent on unifying these opposing elements in our people and within our own psyches.
Esther or Hadassah?
Mystical & Healing Properties of the Myrtle
What is the significance of the myrtle in the Torah? Which hidden spiritual lessons does this humble plant teach us and what is its inherent connection to Esther who is also called Hadassah/Myrtle?
Through Torah texts and herbal wisdom this shiur will shed light on both the spiritual and medicinal properties of the myrtle and tie it in with the upcoming holiday of Purim. If fresh myrtle leaves are available the learning will culminate in a “Hands on Workshop” preparing your own myrtle oil or cream.
Vashti's Tail or Esther's Hidden Face
Two models of Feminine Empowerment
Through textual study integrating, Bible texts, Midrash, Chassidism and Kabbalah, we will contrast the modest hidden beauty of Esther with Vashti’s desire for control and power-struggle. We will glean from the texts and character analysis how to distinguish between unholy self-aggrandizing feminism and true Jewish feminism within the parameters of Halacha.
To book an event, interview, or for more information about promotional events for Women at the Crossroads,
please contact:
Elana Roth at (02) 993-4945 or info@berotbatayin.org
Women
at the Crossroads:
A Woman's Perspective on the Weekly Torah Portion
by Rebbetzin
Chana Bracha Siegelbaum
Preview the book before you buy!
Softcover
Publisher: Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin
Distributer: Lambda/Urim Publications
ISBN: 978-I-936068-09-8
262 pp
Cost: $18.95 plus shipping & handling
WOMEN AT THE CROSSROADS: A WOMAN'S PERSPECTIVE ON THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION addresses the single, most fundamental question defining Judaism today: What is the modern Jewish woman’s role – with all of her creative talents, intellectual capabilities, nurturing instincts and career interests – in a traditional Jewish society that seemingly restricts women to the home and, at best, menial workplace tasks? How can the dynamic woman in today's world relate to the women of the Bible, who stand “in the tent,” behind their husbands, absorbed in family life?
Women today have more freedom than at any time in history. Yet, with this freedom, comes choices about how to balance family, work, community and self. A closer look at the women of the Torah – through the eyes of biblical commentators from past centuries until today – reveals the unique feminine qualities endowed to all women by G-d to help guide their daily decisions and relationships.
Placing traditional commentators, such as Rashi and the Ramban, side-by-side with Chassidic masters like the Meor V’shemesh and modern commentators including Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan, veteran Torah teacher and visionary Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum weaves together the strands that make up the tapestry of life for the Jewish woman – while showing how much she can learn from the Torah of the Mothers.
Rather than preaching the “feminist agenda,” the post-feminist author explains how Jewish women of today need to look inwards to the women in the Torah for guidance in choosing their priorities in life, rather than to the external, competitive, masculine world:
". . . the highest achievements of Jewish femininity are accomplished specifically through fulfilling the traditional role of women in Judaism, rather than by attempting to imitate the more masculine Jewish rituals . . . the processes of pregnancy, birth, nurturing life, and personal prayer bring us much closer to Hashem than the experience of being in the spotlight by leading prayer services or officiating as rabbis."
The author will tour throughout Israel and North America in the coming months, reading from her new book and leading an engaging discussion on the role of women in Judaism.
Women at the Crossroads: A Woman's Perspective on the Weekly Torah Portion, published by Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin and distributed by Urim Publications, is available for purchase at $18.95 online at www.berotbatayin.org, by email at admin@berotbatayin.org or by phone at (02) 993-4945.
"I recommend with a full heart the work of the important Rebbetzin Chana
Bracha Siegelbaum director of Midreshet B’erot Bat Ayin."
- The Admor of Biala, Rabbi Ben Tzion Rabinowitz
"Women at the Crossroads brings a powerful and thought-provoking
perspective based on Torah texts with a wide scope of commentaries, and offers
a personal, relevant and inspirational reading for women and men as well.
Women from all walks of life will enjoy her refreshing perspective."
- Dr. Miriam Adahan
"Chana Bracha Siegelbaum is to be commended for producing a book that
contributes to the evolving body of teachings that give voice to the feminine
perspective."
-
Sarah Yehudit Schneider
"Her presentations are not “Feminist Agenda” or apologetics for the Torah, but
rather sound Torah perspectives."
-
Rabbi Zev Leff
"The author has spent many years teaching her unique and inspired classes
touching both hearts and minds. She has now given the reading public this
rare combination in a lucid, readable form that will no doubt benefit many
women."
-
Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller
"As a recognized authority in the field of Jewish women’s education,
Rebbetzin Siegelbaum’s Torah commentary overflows with emunah,
love of her fellow Jew, and love of our holy Land of Israel."
- Rabbi Eliezer Raphael (Lazer) Brody
USD $18.95 + $8.95 for shipping and handling
10 books - USD $180 + $39 for shipping and handling
For orders in Israel
NIS 72 per book
Order the book online, by email or by phone, then pick up at the following locations:
Jerusalem - Old City - the Sephardic Educational Center
Jerusalem - Romema - Magen David Adom (Terem)
Ramat Beit Shemesh
Beitar - Kupat Cholim Leumit
Efrat
Yishuv Bat Ayin - Midreshet B’erot Bat Ayin
You may pay with PayPal, credit card or check. Instructions follow this order form.
Holistic Torah Study for Women on the Land of Israel
At Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin, you can learn how to elevate your whole being through integrating the spiritual teachings of Judaism into your life. Explore traditional Jewish sources with the aid of dynamic instructors in an open-minded, encouraging and supportive environment. Discover the rich variety of Torah approaches while forming your own outlook and learning to appreciate the views of others. Add new dimensions to your intellectual understanding as you through movement, drama, art and music. In revealing your unique Jewish femininity, you will deepen your connection with the Jewish community and the Land of Israel.
Classes include: Chumash, Women in Tanach, Halacha, Tefilah, Tanya, Teachings of Rav Kook, Teachings of Rebbe Nachman, Chassidut and Jewish Psychology, Chassidut and Nigunim, Jewish Meditation, Creative Movement, Rambam: Herbology, Nutrition & Health, Agricultural Workshop, Hebrew Ulpan, Individual Study Project, Beginning and Advanced courses offered plus special program for conversion.
To play the video, move your mouse over the video. When the Control panel appears, click the Play button. The video may take a few minutes to load.
Please be aware that there are images of and singing by women. The video is intended for women only.
Support Women's Holistic Torah Study
and the Development of the Land of Israel!
Our students rely on the contributions of people like you to help fund their studies at our institution. Many of them are adults no longer receiving support from their families. Others have come to the path of Torah without the emotional or financial support from their parents. Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin is committed to finding a way for every suitable student to learn with us. Together with your help, we can live up to that committment without having to cut back on the programming, activities and trips that make the experience at Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin so special.
· Toronto, Monday, February 15th, 8:00 PM, Rosh Chodesh Adar
Vashti's Tail or Esther's Hidden Face: Two Models of Feminine Empowerment
Followed by Purim Yoga with Kinneret Feuer
· Manhattan, Sunday, February 7th, 6:00 PM
Mothers of Connection-Repairing the Schism Between the Children of Rachel and Leah
Catered Dinner 6:15 PM - $100 minimum donation couvert, preregister by February 3rd
Dedicated l'ilui neshamat Eliyahu ben Zvi, may his memory be for a blessing
Shiur 7:30 PM - Donations appreciated
· Queens, Monday, February 8th, 7:30 PM
Esther or Hadassah: Mystical & Healing Properties of the Myrtle Followed by hands on workshop in making your own myrtle oil
· Monsey, Wednesday, February 10th, 8:00 PM
Esther or Hadassah: Mystical & Healing Properties of the Myrtle Followed by hands on workshop in making your own myrtle oil
New Jersey
· Teaneck, Tuesday, February 9th, 12:15 PM
Esther or Hadassah: Mystical & Healing Properties of the Myrtle
· Teaneck, Tuesday, February 9th, 8:00 PM
Vashti's Tail or Esther's Hidden Face: Two Models of Feminine Empowerment
· Passaic, Thursday, February 11th, 8:00 PM
Eishet Chayil–A Woman of Valor
Co-sponsored by the Carlebach Minyan of Passaic
Massachusetts
· Sharon, Sunday, February 14th, Rosh Chodesh Adar, 7:30 PM
Mothers of Connection: Repairing the Schism Between the Children of Rachel and Leah
Maryland
· Baltimore Shabbaton, February 12-13
Friday Night Women's Oneg Shabbat, 8:30 PM
Shabbat Day Women's Class, 2:00 PM
Mothers of Connection: Repairing the Schism Between the Children of Rachel and Leah
Motzei Shabbat Melave Malka, 8:00 PM
Women of Connection: Torah, Music & Dance
Musical performance and drum circle with Shalomis Koffler Weinreb-bring your drum!
Dance workshop with Rivka Malka Perlman!
Cost-$15 donation appreciated
Florida
· Miami, Tuesday, February 16th, 8:00 PM Eishet Chayil–A Woman of Valor
Chabad of Golden Beach in the Ramada Marco Polo Hotel
· Boca Raton, Wednesday, February 17th, 8:00 PM Mothers of Connection: Repairing the Schism Between the Children of Rachel and Leah
· Hollywood, Thursday, February 18th, 7:00 PM
Vashti's Tail or Esther's Hidden Face:
Two Models of Feminine Empowerment
At Congregation Judea, Stirling Plaza (2 blocks west of 441)
6736 Stirling Road, Hollywood FL 33024
Cost $5
California
·Los Angeles Pre-Purim Shabbaton, February 19th-20th
Nurture Your Mind, Body and Soul Women's Shabbaton
Three Nutitious Meals
Friday Night Women's Oneg Shabbat
Seudah Shelishit, Women's Class and Havdalah
Motzei Shabbat Melaveh Malka
Moshe's Other Side: Drumming up the Geulah
· Los Angeles, Friday, February 19th, 8:45 PM Oneg Shabbat
Eishet Chayil – A Woman of Valor
·Los Angeles, Shabbat, February 20th, 4:00 PM
Mothers of Connection: Repairing the Schism between the Children of Rachel and Leah
· Los Angeles, Motzei Shabbat, February 20th, 8:00 PM Melaveh Malka
Moshe’s Other Half: Drumming up the Geulah
·Los Angeles, Sunday, February 21st, 10:00 AM
Esther or Hadassah? Mystical & Healing Properties of the Myrtle Followed by hands on workshop in making your own Myrtle oil
Open to women, mothers and daughters from Bat Mitzvah and up
·Los Angeles, Monday, February 22nd, 11:00 AM
Vashti's Tail or Esther's Hidden Face: Two Models of Feminine Empowerment
· Los Angeles, Monday, February 22nd, 8:00 PM Eishet Chayil - A Woman of Valor
Open for men and women
·Los Angeles, Tuesday, February 23rd, 8:00 PM
Vashti's Tail or Esther's Hidden Face: Two Models of Feminine Empowerment
Open to men and women
Cost: $10 at the door, additional donations to Midreshet B'erot Bat Ayin appreciated
Rebbetzin Chana Bracha Siegelbaum, a native of Denmark, is the founder and director of Midreshet B’erot Bat Ayin. She holds a Bachelor of Education in Bible and Jewish philosophy from Michlalah – Jerusalem College for Women, and a Masters of Art in Jewish history from Touro College. For more than two decades Rebbetzin Chana Bracha has taught Bible studies with special emphasis on women’s issues in Israel and the United States. She creates curricula emphasizing women’s spiritual empowerment through traditional Torah values. Rebbetzin Chana Bracha has a married son and two granddaughters and lives with her husband and younger son on the land of the Judean Hills, in Israel.
