The Lifnei Program offers a meaningful and values-driven year of Torah study before students begin their military or national service on behalf of Am Yisrael. Through intensive learning that includes Gemara, Halacha, Tanakh, and Machshava, alongside a strong emphasis on character development, students are spiritually prepared for their important service to Medinat Yisrael and equipped with tools that will guide them for the rest of their lives.
The program includes a full year of intensive Torah study, meaningful preparation for service, and ongoing guidance for graduates throughout their military or national service. In addition, Rabbanit Ilana Hadad, Nishmat’s Dean, regularly visits participants on their bases after they enlist, maintaining a close and supportive connection. Graduates who join the IDF enlist as part of a seminary-based military framework and serve in a wide range of roles.
The weekly schedule consists of five full days of learning from morning to evening — morning sessions in Gemara and Halacha. Don’t worry if you haven’t studied Gemara before; you will feel at ease, as most students arrive without prior background and learn along the way with guidance and support from the teachers.
In the afternoons, there are elective classes on topics such as Chassidut, Tanach, Jewish thought, relationships, and more. In the evenings, students choose evening sessions in Tanach, Chassidut, or Gemara.
Once a week, there is a “Round Table” — an intimate group discussion led each week by a different student. On Wednesday afternoons, the program is dedicated to the “Beit Midrash Chevrati,” exploring issues at the intersection of Halacha and real life, followed by volunteer work throughout the neighborhood.
Throughout the school year, the army induction process is carried out collectively within the group, with Nishmat staff supporting the students through the selection process and assignment to roles. Lifnei students are enlisted into a variety of positions according to their skills and goals — educational roles, intelligence, operational positions, and more.
Being part of a seminary military group means continuing to belong to the Beit Midrash throughout your service. Soldiers receive personal guidance, individual visits to bases, participate in learning days and Shabbatot at the Midrasha, a comprehensive support framework throughout their service, and assistance with questions and challenges.
We place great value on learning in a group and strengthening social connections. Alongside learning, there are meaningful social activities: a winter outing, a Midrasha trip, events for holidays, Rosh Chodesh celebrations, and more.
Absolutely! Each group has an educational team — teachers and mentors. Each student will have personal meetings and guidance throughout her growth process during her learning year. In addition, each week there is a group “Round Table,” providing meaningful group time.
First, you register for an open house day and fill out an online personal information form. During the open house, you will experience a day of learning at the Midrasha. On the same day, there will be a one-on-one interview with a staff member and a panel with current students. Within a week, you will receive an acceptance letter with details on how to complete registration.
