Talmud Tutor Plus

From Davka Corp.

Cost $29. 95

Reviewed by

Yitzchok Pollack

Features

• Introduction to Gemarah from Rambam
• The entire third perek in Baba Metziah and first perek of Berachos with English translation (Soncino translation) with Rashi (no translation) Gemarah scrolls together with translation and Rashi (printable cannot be copied)
• Timeline (printable cannot be copied)
• Biography of Zugos, Tanaim and Amoroim (printable can be be copied one at a time)
• Maps of Israel and Bavel with names of major Torah centers.
• Calculator to figure weight and measures of Gemarah
• 13 middos of Gemarah with explanation
• A 150 word glossary (printable cannot be copied) words are pronounced as well.
• Abbreviations
• Quizzes on words, biographies, teacher student (not printable)

Features for the Rebbe / Teacher

• Rambams introduction
• Timeline
• Biographies
• Maps
• 150 word glossary and abbreviations

Features for the student

• Quizzes on words, Biographies, Calculator

An excellent program that can be used by the Rebbe as well as the student. As a Rebbe, I have found the use of biographies to be an excellent tool in teaching and learning Gemarah. I have compiled a small booklet containing biographies, the Rambam's introduction to gemarah, and maps printed directly from the program. The biographies are listed according to the generations of the Tanniam and Amoraim. In addition to this it is listed according to the Tannaim who lived in Bavel or Eretz Yisroel and what Yeshiva they were from.

Each time we learn Gemarah we discuss which generation the Tanna or Amora was from,who was his Rebbe, and who were his talmidim. Providing this information truly enhances the gemarah class.

When learning the words of Rav Nachman, and how Rava explained those words we at once began to research who was Rav Nachmans Rebbe and talmud. Upon discovering that Rav was the talmud of Rav Nachman, the words of the Gemarah began to take on a new meaning. Even while learning Gearah on my own I look up The Tannaim and Amorim.

The glossary can also be used in the classroom. I have printed a small booklet of 150 words and 2 pages of abbreviations. These words however can not be copied, but can be printed directly from program. The print is clear and attractive and is approximately a 20 point font size.

I especially recommend this program for the student who has difficulty memorizing words.

Shortcomings

• I would have liked to see the ability to copy instead of just being able to print.
• Secondly I would like to warn all those who have had the Judaic Classic Library already installed, do not erase the Drashi text font. When I originally installed this program the rashi feature didn't work. I was told by tech support to erase the drashi font. After doing so my rashi feature worked however all the files I wrote using that font did not recognize the new drashi font.