As part of its ongoing commitment to preparing students for both rabbinic leadership and personal life, Kollel Tiferet Menachem, the Smicha Yeshiva in Los Angeles, recently had the honor to host a special class on dating and marriage for its bochurim, delivered by world-renowned author, lecturer, and educator Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Jacobson, who is also a parent of one of the Yeshiva’s Smicha students.
Marriage education has long been a meaningful component of the Yeshiva’s broader chinuch and hashkafah programming, complementing its primary focus on rigorous rabbinic studies. For many years, students have benefited from multi-part lecture series and seminars led by respected rabbinic figures and educators, foremost among them Rabbi Manis Friedman, who has guided the bochurim for many years, as well as Rabbi Yosef Shusterman, Rabbi Tzvi Freeman, Rabbi Mendel Lipsker, Rabbi Yossi Paltiel, Rabbi Dr. Yosef Shagalow, and Rabbi Mendel Schapiro. These classes aim to address not only practical questions, but the personal growth and responsibility required to build a strong Chassidishe home.
This year’s class with Rabbi Jacobson continued that tradition while introducing a notably different approach. His presentation explored dimensions of dating and marriage that are not usually addressed in formal settings, doing so with clarity, depth, and great sensitivity. Rather than focusing exclusively on technique or advice, the shiur encouraged careful thought about emotional readiness, responsibility, and the inner work that marriage demands.
The bochurim were deeply engaged throughout, and the seriousness of the subject matter was conveyed with honesty and care.
“We have been privileged to host many talented and thoughtful presenters,” said Rabbi Dovid Schmukler, Rosh HaKollel. “Rabbi Jacobson brought a unique perspective that elevated the conversation beyond the usual framework. His insights gave the students much to think about as they prepare for this important stage of life.”
This class builds upon the Yeshiva’s broader effort to provide its students with guidance that extends beyond the beis midrash, while remaining firmly rooted in its core mission of advanced Torah learning. Alumni frequently note the lasting value of these programs as they move forward into marriage, family life, and communal leadership.
Kollel Tiferet Menachem looks forward to continuing this important area of programming, b’ezras Hashem, offering future classes and seminars that support the holistic development of its students alongside their rigorous rabbinic training.
Yaasher koach!