Yeshiva

Yeshiva is a Jewish educational institution dedicated to Torah study. The word, Hebrew in origin, denotes a place for studying and discussing sacred texts. Historically, yeshivot were centers of Talmudic learning and rabbinic training, and in many communities they remain full-time schools for young men. Today the term also refers to a range of institutions emphasizing religious study, from elementary programs to advanced post-graduate tracks.

Study focuses on Torah and rabbinic literature, especially the Talmud, Mishnah, and Halacha. The principal method is chavruta, paired study, often with lectures called shiurim. A typical day runs from morning to evening, with long blocks of study and relatively little secular coursework. In Israel, post-high school yeshivas include yeshiva gedola for men and yeshiva ketana for younger students; many offer kollel programs for married scholars.

Variants exist by tradition and geography. Hasidic and Litvish yeshivot differ culturally but share core study methods. Yeshivot operate worldwide, including Yeshiva University in New York, which combines Jewish studies with secular courses. In Israel, hesder programs integrate yeshiva study with military service. Women study Torah in women’s yeshivot and midrashot, focusing on text study rather than rabbinic ordination in many Orthodox communities.

Yeshiva remains a central model of Torah education in Jewish life, shaping religious leadership and scholarship across denominations.