Budapest: Rabbi Oberlander’s Friday Torah Dilemmas

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Every Friday, Rabbi Baruch (Báruch) Oberlander leads “Questions and Dilemmas in the Weekly Torah Portion” at the Vasvári Synagogue, offering sharp insights and open discussion in the heart of Terézváros. The series runs weekly, with multiple upcoming dates and a lively, community-focused atmosphere at 5 Vasvári Pál Street (Vasvári Pál utca 5), 1061 Budapest.

Where and When

Venue: Vasvári Synagogue, 1061 Budapest, 6th District – Terézváros, 5 Vasvári Pál Street (Vasvári Pál utca 5).
Dates: 2026.02.20, 2026.02.27, 2026.03.06, 2026.03.13, 2026.03.20, with more dates to come. Total listed: 29.

What to Expect

Rabbi Oberlander explores weekly parsha questions and real-life halachic dilemmas, inviting attendees to think, ask, and debate. The recurring Friday format makes it easy to drop in regularly or catch a single talk that fits your schedule.

Good to Know

Organizers reserve the right to change dates and programs. Check for updates before heading out.

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Pros

Family-friendly vibe if your crew is comfortable with a synagogue setting; respectful teens and curious kids can sit in, and the discussion format keeps it engaging

The weekly, drop‑in schedule on Fridays makes it easy to slot into a Budapest itinerary without committing to a one‑off ticketed event

Rabbi Oberlander is a well‑regarded figure in the local Jewish community, so you’re getting thoughtful, authoritative insights rather than a touristy lecture

Central Terézváros location (6th District) is super convenient—easy tram/Metro access and walkable from many hotels

No need for deep prior knowledge; if you’ve got basic familiarity with the Torah or just like ethical debates, you can follow along

Great cultural window into Budapest’s living Jewish life, not just museums and memorials

Free/low‑cost community feel compared with pricier cultural events

Cons

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The topic (weekly Torah/halachic dilemmas) isn’t a mainstream international draw, so casual travelers might not prioritize it over classic sights

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Hungarian or Hebrew may pop up; if the talk isn’t in English or lacks translation, non‑speakers could miss nuances—check language in advance

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Friday timing bumps up against Shabbat prep; post‑event dining or transport plans may need extra thought

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Compared with big-name religious lectures in NYC/London, this is smaller-scale and less polished, so expectations should be for intimate community learning, not a marquee event