April 2025
Adas Israel Congregation | Rabbi Daniel Green
Torah learning isn’t just about studying texts. It's about engaging in a conversation that challenges us, reveals deep truths, and helps us navigate our own lives. Few classes capture this approach better than The Genesis of Relationships, led by Rabbi Jonathan Riaboy. Held on Thursday evenings, the class examines the weekly Torah portion through personalities and relationships, uncovering the emotional and psychological depth of biblical figures. The class fosters an interactive approach, encouraging participants to explore patterns that reveal new dimensions of the text.
Riaboy’s background in social work shapes how he brings biblical figures to life, in that he presents them as complex individuals who face challenges, make decisions, and navigate relationships. His understanding of human behavior and relationships provides a fresh lens for engaging with Torah, making its narratives feel relevant and personally meaningful.
Riaboy and his wife, Rachel, are the co-directors of the Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC) at McMaster University, a program of the Orthodox Union in partnership with Hillel. Through JLIC, they create an environment where university students explore Torah and Judaism in a way that is both intellectually rigorous and personally relevant, while also providing mentorship and community.
Beyond his local impact, Riaboy founded The Parsha Lab, a WhatsApp-based discussion group where participants worldwide engage in deep discussion, critical thinking, and fresh perspectives on the weekly Torah portion. The group fosters an open, collaborative approach to exploring the text, encouraging members to share insights that challenge and enrich one another’s understanding.
The Genesis of Relationships is part of Adas Israel’s commitment to dynamic and meaningful adult education.
We invite the entire community to join this inspiring conversation. For more information on this course and other learning opportunities at Adas Israel, visit adasisrael.ca.
CAPTION: Jonathan and Rachel Riaboy
