This may seem like a stupid question, but what is “studying Torah”? Is it just reading it, looking at the commentary, or just learning about Torah related things? Am I studying Torah by reading this website if it is for the purpose of learning? How do you study Torah? How can a “lay-Jew” study the Torah without a teacher?

Thank you for your question and rest assured it is by no means a foolish one. To study Torah is to delve into the various books of Torah and learn their meaning and message. This is accomplished in a variety of ways but the ideal means of doing so is with a teacher. There’s a mentor program that I know well and rely on alot called Partners in Torah and you can sign up for it by calling 800-study42 or visit their website at www.study42.com

All the best,
Rabbi Elazar Meisels