The Denver Community Kollel held its 3rd annual Learn-A-Thon this past Sunday, May 13th. The concept is simple: Jews gather to study, individually, with a chavrusah (study partner), or in groups for one hour, with the goal of finishing an entire masechta of Shas.
Nearly 100 Jews from across Denver participated in the Learn-A-Thon. Men and boys were given a daf (folio) of Tractate Beitzah or Mo’ed Katan to learn, while women studied a prepared curriculum as part of a group led by Mrs. Miriam Joseph. A shiur for younger boys was given by Kollel Scholar Rabbi Shmuel Halpern, as well.
Following the learning session, a siyum (completion ceremony) was held. Kollel Senior Educator Rabbi Mordechai Fleisher made the siyum.
In his siyum remarks, Rabbi Fleisher pointed out that Yom Tov, which is the focus of Tractate Beitzah, is different from Shabbos. Once Shabbos begins, no additional work can be done, while on Yom Tov, one is allowed to do certain types of work in order to prepare food and create the proper joy hat is part and parcel of the Yom Tov. However, not all types of work can be done; many things must be prepared before Yom Tov and then one may complete the food on Yom Tov. Much of Tractate Beitzah thus discusses what preparations must be made before Yom Tov and what can be done on Yom Tov. It is both parts together – the preparation beforehand and the completion of the food on Yom Tov – that makes a great Yom Tov.
Rabbi Fleisher concluded that the Learn-A-Thon takes place a week before Shavuos so as to prepare for the Yom Tov of receiving the Torah. Through our preparation now, we can fully enjoy the Yom Tov by accepting the Torah on Shavuos itself.
Following the siyum, participants celebrated with music and dancing, followed by refreshments in honor of the siyum.
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