Thousands of lomdei Torah across the United States were afforded a rare opportunity to experience the practical application of the sugyos of Maseches Chullin as Agudath Israel of America’s Torah Projects Commission hosted an extensive nationwide speaking tour featuring Rav Amitai Ben-David, renowned author of Sichas Chulin and a leading expert in the halachos and realities of shechitah and treifos.
Over the course of several weeks, Rav Ben-David visited communities throughout Monsey, Brooklyn, Passaic, Far Rockaway, Baltimore, Waterbury, Toms River, Airmont, Lakewood, and Queens, presenting engaging and highly informative programs to audiences numbering in the thousands. The events drew rabbonim, Daf Yomi participants, bnei Torah, and community members eager to deepen their understanding of one of the most fascinating and practical areas of Torah study.
What made these presentations particularly unique was the combination of rigorous Torah scholarship with live demonstrations. At each stop, Rav Ben-David presented a live shechitah and treifos demonstration, bringing to life the intricate halachos governing kosher slaughter and the examination of animals. Through practical examples, visual illustrations, and clear explanations, participants gained a unique appreciation for the precision, expertise, and Torah knowledge required in the world of kashrus.
“For many participants, this was their first opportunity to see the practical realities behind the sugyos they have learned in Maseches Chullin,” said Rabbi Yitzchok Hisiger, Director of Torah Projects at Agudath Israel of America. “Rav Ben-David possesses a unique ability to bridge the gap between the beis medrash and practical halachic application. The tremendous enthusiasm and attendance we witnessed in community after community reflected a genuine thirst for this type of Torah programming.”
Rabbi Hisiger added, “These presentations enabled participants to gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty, precision, and complexity of these halachos. We are grateful to the many local rabbonim, shuls, sponsors, and organizers whose efforts made the tour possible, and to Rav Ben-David for sharing his vast knowledge and expertise with Torah communities throughout the country.”