In this lecture we will explore some of the main ideas that Hazal sought to teach in their midrashic exegesis of the story of creation. We will examine the dispute regarding public discussion of Ma'aseh Bereishit, we will attempt to discern the reasons for this prohibition, and we will investigate the ways in which Sages continued to expound upon the creation story despite this restriction. We will study several important issues discussed in the midrash, including: the meaning of tohu va-vohu, the ramifications of divine creation by means of speech, perfection  and imperfection in creation, and the role of angels in creation.  

 

Yemei Iyun be-Tanakh