Known for its unique combination of the most advanced textual study with deep spiritual exploration and religious devotion, the students are engaged in both thorough Torah study in addition to many hours of volunteer work, trips and activities that enhance their spiritual and personal growth. In contrast to some other Israeli midrashot, Nishmat prides itself on an older, mature Beit Midrash. Our more mature full-time students, 20-21, post National Service, set the tone for the younger students who are before national or army service. In fact, students often state they are attracted to Nishmat specifically because of its reputation of being doers for the Jewish People – study that turns into action.
From morning to night, the curriculum is filled with structured learning sessions and diverse classes. Shiur Alef is tailored for students who arrive after years of service and experience — when it comes to social dynamics, the level of discussion, areas of engagement, and the depth and intensity appropriate for this stage of life.
Each group has its own staff and system. The Beit Midrash is shared, some afternoon classes are joint, and evening study sessions are together for the entire Beit Midrash. Housing in apartments is divided according to pre-service and post-service groups.
We invest time and thought in building a meaningful group that focuses on identity formation, learning, and spiritual growth. Every week includes meaningful group discussions, Shabbatot with the entire Midrasha, and social activities such as trips, holiday events, and more. Each group has an educational team — teachers, mentors, and guides. Each student will have personal meetings and guidance throughout her year of study in the midrasha.
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; 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.
The studies are a full five-day-per-week program. Work can be incorporated on Fridays or during free evenings on Tuesday nights.
