Daily Jewish Thought

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Thoughts on spirituality, Kabbalah, Jewish thought, Judaism and Relationships. "La Rabbin de Lamour" -La Presse "Montreal's Hipster Rabbi" -Matty Matheson, VICELAND Rabbi Yisroel Bernath is the spiritual director at Chabad of NDG and is the Jewish970059-vois-comme-entremetteur-vieille-ecole.jpg…

Rabbi@JewishNDG.com (Rabbi Yisroel Bernath)

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    • Jun 1, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 19m AVG DURATION
    • 1,130 EPISODES

    Ivy Insights

    The Daily Jewish Thought podcast has been an incredible resource for me as a young Jew who has struggled with having a non-practicing Jewish parent. This podcast has not only helped me find God within myself, but it has also allowed me to learn more about my religion and ultimately find my true self. I am truly grateful for Rabbi Yisreol's teachings and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.

    One of the best aspects of The Daily Jewish Thought podcast is Rabbi Yisreol himself. He is undoubtedly a man of God and goodness, with an immense amount of knowledge and insight into Judaism. His independent thought, analysis, and honesty are hard to come by, especially in the world of podcasts. It is refreshing to listen to someone who speaks from the heart and genuinely wants to help others connect with their faith. Rabbi Yisreol's teachings have resonated with me on numerous occasions, providing me with guidance and clarity when I needed it most.

    Another great aspect of this podcast is its accessibility. The episodes are short, making it easy for individuals with busy schedules to incorporate daily moments of reflection and connection with their faith. This format allows listeners like myself to engage in meaningful discussions without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. Additionally, the content covered in each episode is diverse, ranging from discussions on various Jewish holidays to exploring core beliefs and values within Judaism. This variety ensures that there is something for everyone on this podcast.

    While The Daily Jewish Thought podcast has many positives, one potential downside could be its limited scope. As someone who is deeply committed to learning about Judaism from various perspectives, I would appreciate hearing more diverse voices on the show. Although Rabbi Yisreol brings a wealth of wisdom, incorporating guest speakers or different rabbis could enhance the overall listening experience by offering different interpretations and insights into Jewish teachings.

    In conclusion, The Daily Jewish Thought podcast has had a profound impact on my spiritual growth and understanding of Judaism. Rabbi Yisreol's teachings have helped me find God within myself, navigate the challenges of having a non-practicing Jewish parent, and ultimately feel more connected to my religion. The accessibility of this podcast is commendable, allowing listeners to engage with their faith in small but meaningful ways. While I would love to see more diverse voices on the show, I am grateful for the invaluable lessons and guidance that Rabbi Yisreol provides.



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    Latest episodes from Daily Jewish Thought

    The Crown Returns: Torah, Memory, and the Story We Still Carry | Rabbi Bernath's Sermon for Shavuot

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2025 20:42


    In this special post-Shabbat sermon recorded for Shavuot, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath takes us on a profound journey through the remarkable history of the Sassoon Codex and the legendary Crown of Aram Tzova. Woven into this tale of ink and parchment is a modern miracle: the voice of a mother reaching her daughter in captivity, reminding us that the Torah is not just a relic, but a living pulse of our people.From ancient scribes in Tiberias to secret hiding spots in Aleppo, from destruction to redemption, from loss to legacy, Rabbi Bernath reveals how the Jewish People have never just studied the Torah, we've carried it. We've risked our lives to protect it. And today, as we stand at the foot of Sinai once more, we are called to do the same.Key Takeaways:The Torah is Not History… It's Memory: Unlike history, which belongs to the past, memory shapes the present. The Torah is our collective memory and it calls us to live with responsibility and purpose.The Crown is More Than a Book: The story of the Crown of Aram Tzova reflects the Jewish people's fierce dedication to Torah. It symbolizes dignity, identity, and spiritual sovereignty.Miracles Happen When We Stay Connected: Agam Berger's story reminds us that even in darkness, light can pierce through. The Torah isn't just letters on parchment, it's a lifeline, a soul-connector.Torah is Our Crown—But We Must Guard It: Just as communities once locked the Crown in an iron chest, we too must fiercely protect our values, our faith, and our unity.Shavuot is Our Coronation Day: Every year, we place the crown back on our heads. Torah is not a heritage we visit, it's a legacy we live.#Shavuot #shavuos #Jewish #aleppocodex #sassooncodex #Torah #Sermon #Bible #jewishunity #Judaism #JewishHistory #jewishstories Support US and Win BIG www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Special Shavuot Discussion: The Guarantors: Why G-d Chose the Children?

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 42:04


    What if the future of Judaism depended not on scholars or sages, but on the sippy cups and crayon-covered siddurim of our children?This powerful class dives into one of the most striking Midrashim about the giving of the Torah: when G-d demanded a guarantor, our ancestors suggested the elders, the prophets, the leaders and were rejected. Only when they offered the children did G-d say: Now we have a deal.But why children? Why not the tzaddikim, the scholars, the sages? And what does it mean that our children were the only "acceptable" security on the Torah?Together, we'll explore a deeply moving interpretation shared by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 5712 (1952), tracing how this Midrash contains the blueprint for Jewish continuity and our most urgent modern-day call to action.Through Torah, history, poetry, and tears, this class reminds us: if we want Judaism tomorrow, we must invest in our children today.KEY TAKEAWAYS:G-d Doesn't Want Retirement Religion:Torah isn't just for the nostalgic elderly or even for the rabbis, it's for every Jew, of every age and stage.Children Are the True Guarantors:When young hearts taste the sweetness of Torah, it becomes a lifelong imprint—and they end up teaching us.Jewish Education is National Security:Teachers are the true defenders of our people. Want to protect the Jewish future? Start by elevating Jewish schools.From Silence to Ruckus:After the Holocaust, there were no children left to make noise in shul. Today, we must cherish every giggle, every running step, every whispered Shema because that is the sound of eternity.Show Up at Sinai—Again:The custom of bringing children to hear the Ten Commandments on Shavuos is not symbolic it's covenantal. Without them, we can't receive the Torah anew.Support US and Win BIG www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    From Adrenaline to Identity: What It Really Means to Live Jewish Today | Rabbi Bernath's Shabbat Sermon

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2025 30:12


    In the aftermath of October 7, Jews around the world experienced a surge of emotion and identity—an outpouring of Jewish adrenaline. But as the energy fades, the real question emerges: what does it actually mean to live a meaningful Jewish life?Rabbi Bernath draws from Dan Senor's "State of World Jewry" Speech and 92Y last week, A.B. Yehoshua's challenge to diaspora Jews, and the timeless answers offered by our prophets and sages—from King David to the Rebbe. He reminds us that Jewish life isn't about where you live, but how you live: with integrity, with mitzvos, with visible Jewish pride.Rooted in this week's Parshah, the sermon invites us to reclaim the mitzvos that affirm who we are in a world trying to forget us—and reminds us that the most radical act of Jewish survival is living Jewish every single day.Key Takeaways:October 8th Jews Need More than Adrenaline: Emotional response to tragedy must evolve into sustainable Jewish living—rooted in action, not just feeling.Geography Isn't Identity: Living in Israel doesn't automatically make one Jewish in practice. Living Jewishly—through mitzvot and moral clarity—does.Our Prophets Knew the Secret: King David, Isaiah, Micah, and Chavakuk each distilled Judaism to its ethical essence, but only because ritual was then a given. In exile, the inverse is true—we must rebuild our ritual identity.The Rebbe's Mitzvah Campaign Echoes the Prophets: Strategic mitzvot like tefillin, Shabbat candles, and kosher aren't just practices—they are declarations of identity.We Must Lead Jewish Lives—Loudly and Proudly: In today's world, being visibly Jewish is an act of courage and continuity. This is our generation's mission.#JewishIdentity #Jewish #Judaism #October7 #October7th #DanSenor #mitzvah #mitzvahcampaign #ABYehoshua #LivingJewish #KingDavid #TorahLessons #BibleStudy #Bible #Exile #JewishResiliance Join us for a special evening exploring:•⁠ ⁠The rise and trials of David HaMelech as told in Tanach•⁠ ⁠What Kabbalah and classical commentaries reveal behind the scenesRSVP HERE https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=77Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Still the Chosen People: Finding Value After Tragedy

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 25:26


    In the shadow of the tragic murder of two young Israeli diplomats, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim, who dedicated their lives to peace, we confront the heart-wrenching questions: Are we still the Chosen People? Can we still believe in humanity when humanity seems to fall apart? This week's Torah portion, Bechukotai, addresses blessings and brutal curses, followed by the surprising laws of erchin, evaluating human worth. From this strange juxtaposition, Chassidic masters draw a powerful truth: even after unspeakable loss, the value of a human soul remains eternal and divine. Through stories of survival and sacred resistance, from Auschwitz to Washington D.C. we rediscover that our calling is not diminished by darkness, but rather revealed by it. This class is dedicated to the memory of Yaron and Sarah, may G-d avenge their blood. Takeaways:The antidote to darkness is dignity. The Torah teaches us that even after curses, we must return to affirming the value of each soul.Giving heals. The symbolic 143 shekel of erchin counters the 143 curses, showing the power of charity and sacred commitment.Pain does not diminish worth. Jewish identity is not dependent on external conditions. We remain chosen not despite suffering, but in how we respond to it.A moral education saves lives. The solution to violence isn't only policy—it's character, conscience, and responsibility to G-d.We rise because we remember. From the bloodied streets of exile to the halls of peace diplomacy, the Jewish soul remembers who it is and why it's here.#YaronLischinsky #SarahMilgrim #Torah #Bible #BibleStudy #TorahLessons #TorahPortion #Bechukotai #MoralResponsibility #Chosen #Kabbalah #Sermon #Israel #Antisemitism #chosenpeople #humanworth Join us for a special evening exploring:•⁠ ⁠The rise and trials of David HaMelech as told in Tanach•⁠ ⁠What Kabbalah and classical commentaries reveal behind the scenesRSVP HERE https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/event/register?reset=1&id=77Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Life Is a Wedding: The Inner Celebration of Lag B'Omer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 37:09


    Lag B'Omer isn't just a day for bonfires and bow-and-arrows. It's the Hilula—the joyous “wedding day”—of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, the mystic who gave us the Zohar and opened the gates of Jewish spiritual consciousness. But why a wedding on the day of someone's passing? This class explores the paradox at the heart of both life and love: how our greatest limitations can be our most profound doorways to infinity.We'll explore Talmudic, Kabbalistic, and Chassidic sources—from the soul-body dynamic, to the power of mitzvot, to why life is likened to a wedding. You'll discover how the soul's “marriage” to the body mirrors our own sacred relationships and how Lag B'Omer invites us to celebrate the holiness hidden in the now.3 Takeaways:Life is a Wedding, Not a Waiting Room Rabbi Shimon taught us to stop postponing joy. Every mitzvah, every act of love, is a divine moment worth celebrating now—not later.Paradox is the Pathway to Eternity Through the union of opposites—soul and body, heaven and earth, law and love—we don't diminish ourselves. We become eternal.Kabbalah Illuminates the Ordinary Lag B'Omer marks the unveiling of the soul of Torah, where every halachah becomes a mystical spark and every moment a gateway to the Infinite#lagbaomer #zohar #Kabbalah #mysticism #Jewish #chassidic #chassidus #chabad #Hillula #soul #meaningoflife #meaning #JewishSpirituality #soul Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    The Silence That Spoke Too Loud: A Midrashic Look at Courage, Complacency, and Consequence

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 26:56


    In this eye-opening class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores a cryptic Midrash on the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu and how it unexpectedly shook the biblical figure of Job. Through this lens, we'll uncover what this story teaches us about moral responsibility, the danger of silence in the face of injustice, and the timely relevance of speaking up — especially when it's uncomfortable. With a nod to current events and a dose of Chassidic insight, this session challenges us to rethink what it really means to be a bystander.Key Takeaways:-Even silence can be a statement — and sometimes, a dangerous one.-The Torah invites us to see not only the sin of action, but the sin of inaction.-Ancient Midrashic voices still speak to modern struggles with injustice and moral clarity.-Spiritual leadership begins with accountability — even for what we don't say.-In a world filled with noise, knowing when to speak can change everything.#TorahPortion #Torah #Bible #BibleStudy #TorahLessons #Acharei #nadav #avihu #silence #Courage #MoralResponsibility #Antisemitism #jewishhatred #holocaust #jewishleadership #YomHashoah #holocaustremembrance #chabad #Rabbi #yisroelbernathSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Don't Only Look at the Disease — See the Person: The Torah's Hidden Origin of Holistic Healing - Rabbi Bernath on Parshat Tazria

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 36:41


    In this powerful class on Parshas Tazria, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores why the Torah repeats the phrase “the Kohen shall look.” Drawing on the teachings of the Meshech Chochma, we'll discover the Torah's revolutionary approach to healing—not just diagnosing the symptoms, but seeing the entire person. This class reveals the spiritual roots of what modern medicine now calls "holistic care," and challenges us to become more compassionate, wise, and soul-aware in how we view others—and ourselves.Key Takeaways:Double Vision: The Torah instructs the Kohen to look twice—once at the affliction, and once at the person—because true healing begins with empathy, not just analysis.Timing is Everything: There are moments when even truth must wait—for the sake of kindness, joy, and emotional safety.See the Soul: Before declaring someone “impure,” see their heart. Understand the difference between rebellion and pain, behavior and backstory.Holistic Before It Was In: Thousands of years before integrative medicine became a buzzword, the Torah already taught us to heal bodies by caring for souls.Relational Wisdom: Whether in parenting, teaching, or friendships—don't just fix the problem. See the person behind the problem.#Torah #Bible #BibleStudy #TorahLessons #TorahPortion #Tazria #HolisticHealing #Kohen #Tzaraat #Jewish #JewishSpirituality Recharge with David KoRecharge with David Ko is a 5-part limited podcast series premiering in May to...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Inspiration, Conception, Attraction & Competition - The Inspirational Sefirot | Thursday Kabbalah with Rabbi Yisroel Bernath

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 33:21


    Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Shmini | What's More Important Motive or Deed?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 12:10


    Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Next Year in Jerusalem!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 5:50


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Silencing Inner Pharaohs: The Power of Untranslated Truths

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 11, 2025 25:25


    Navigating the choppy waters of our inner Nile, where the Pharaoh of Negative Thought reigns supreme, Rabbi Bernath offers a sage map for the modern soul's Exodus. Picture this: an inner Pharaoh, all ego and no ear, refusing the logic we offer as liberally as matzah at Pesach. It's an ancient tale, yet as current as our latest tweet.Enter Moshe, our timeless hero, speaking Hebrew to a Pharaoh who's as lost in translation as a tourist without Google Maps. The catch? It's not about the words, but the Divine energy they carry, slicing through stubbornness like a hot knife through butter. Consider the Chafetz Chaim, whose Yiddish plea melted Polish hearts without a single word understood—a testament to the soul's language, transcending the babble of Babel.Then there's the 7/38/55 rule, a reminder that our vibes speak louder than our vocabulary. The body's ballet and the tone's tune tell tales our tongues can't touch.So when faced with our own Pharaoh—be it doubt, fear, or the Sunday Scaries—Rabbi Bernath advises a strategy as bold as it is biblical: Speak in your soul's native tongue. No translation needed. For it's not the clarity of argument, but the purity of our Divine essence, that can topple tyranny within.In essence, Rabbi Bernath suggests, when logic's light dims and reason's ropes fray, it's time to unfurl the banner of our inherent holiness, declaring our truths in a language beyond words. Like Moshe, we stand before our inner Pharaoh not to debate, but to demonstrate—a conduit of Divine will, unyielding and unfiltered.In doing so, we don't just speak to our shadows; we illuminate them, transforming the inner Egypt into a land flowing with milk, honey, and the sweet freedom of self-mastery. So let's raise our staffs, part our personal Red Seas, and march towards a promised land of inner peace and purpose, one holy utterance at a time.The Coach Ratner PodcastCoach Ratner is not a matchmaker, but a MateMaker. With 7 books under his belt,...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    No Dialogue, Just Endless Love: A Pre-Passover Journey into the Soul of the Seder

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 40:56


    In this transformative pre-Passover class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath invites us to reimagine one of the most perplexing passages of the Haggadah—the confrontation with the so-called “wicked” child. At first glance, it seems to suggest aggression. But look again. Beneath the surface lies a profound truth about love, empathy, and the infinite potential within every soul. We explore how the seder is not just about telling a story—it's about healing the parts of ourselves and our loved ones that feel like outsiders. We uncover the inner Tzaddik hiding behind the rebellious exterior, the wisdom in our struggles, and the quiet yet revolutionary power of radical acceptance. The class culminates in a powerful meditation on “Nirtzah”—the moment we stop striving and start trusting that our best is enough.Key Takeaways:Look Beneath the Words – The “wicked” child isn't wicked. He's wounded. Real listening means tuning into the cry behind the comment.Empathy Over Argument – “Blunt his teeth” isn't an invitation to silence—it's a call to go beyond verbal combat and into soulful connection.Every Part Belongs – The Four Children represent not just four people, but four parts of ourselves. Don't exile your Hyde—transform him.Rebel ≠ Reject – Even our flaws can be tools for growth. The goal isn't to eliminate the Yetzer Hara, but to elevate it.Your Best Is Enough – The final step of the seder, Nirtzah, is the antidote to “I'm not good enough.” It reminds us: G-d is already pleased. The only one left to convince is ourselves.#Passover #Seder #Hagaddah #chabad #Kabbalah #Israel Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Transforming Pain into Blessing

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 3:12


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Reclaiming Passover as a Value | Live Class @ Federation CJA in Montreal

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 61:31


    Reclaiming Passover as a Value | Live Class @ Federation CJA in MontrealSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Why Did G-d have to Kill the Firstborn?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 4:47


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    The Living Memory of Passover: Insights for your Seder Table with Rabbi Yisroel Bernath

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2025 31:02


    Welcome to our special Passover episode, where we explore the profound layers of the Passover Seder, a ceremony that beautifully encapsulates over three millennia of Jewish history and identity. In this episode, we discuss the fifteen steps of the Seder, from Kiddush to the festive meal, and delve into the powerful narratives and symbols that connect us to our ancestors.We share a humorous yet insightful exchange between a rabbi and an astrophysics professor, which cleverly illustrates the depth of Talmudic study compared to the simplification of complex ideas. The conversation highlights how Jewish traditions and teachings are much more than historical records; they are vibrant memories passed down through generations, forming a continuous link back to the Exodus from Egypt.We reflect on how the presence of multiple generations at the Seder table turns these historical events into a vivid collective memory, extending back hundreds of years and forward into future gatherings. This episode also touches on the intriguing absence of certain words in Biblical Hebrew, such as "history," which is replaced with "memory" — a concept deeply ingrained in Jewish culture.Join us as we discuss how the Passover Seder transcends mere historical recounting, acting instead as a dynamic memory that engages with the past as a living part of our present and future. We conclude with a powerful message on transforming pain into blessing, inspired by the life of Henrietta Szold, who turned personal hardship into a legacy of love and humanitarianism.Main Takeaways:The Seder as a Link Across Time: The Passover Seder is not just a ritual but a bridge connecting 3,300 years of Jewish history through family stories and traditions passed down through generations.Memory Over History: The episode explores why the Hebrew language prefers the term "memory" over "history," emphasizing personal and collective identity formation through remembered experiences rather than impersonal historical events.Cultural Insights: A look at how the absence of certain words in Hebrew, like "history" and "civility," reflects deeper cultural values, with "memory" (zachor) and "chutzpah" taking prominent roles.Humor and Wisdom: The interaction between the rabbi and the professor serves as a metaphor for the depth and complexity of Jewish teachings and the importance of continual learning and interpretation.Transforming Pain into Blessing: Inspired by Henrietta Szold's story, the episode underscores a fundamental Jewish principle of using persoSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | The Meaning of Karpas

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2025 4:30


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | What Frogs can teach us about Values

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 4, 2025 5:18


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Invite Yourself to Freedom: Five Life-Changing Insights from the Seder

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 34:35


    The Passover Seder isn't just a tradition....it's an invitation. Not just for guests around your table, but for you. An invitation to show up emotionally, spiritually, and vulnerably. This class explores five Seder moments that, when fully embraced, can transform your night from ritual to revolution.We'll journey from the cracked matzah to the humble matzah, from our collective memory to our personal growth, from the bitterness of trauma to the sweetness of faith. Discover why incompletion is a gift, how humility is the key to freedom, and why the Seder might just be history's original group therapy session.5 Key Takeaways:Invite Yourself In The opening words of the Seder aren't about inviting others—they're about inviting yourself. Your full, vulnerable, questioning, present self. This is your moment to enter the story, not as a spectator, but as the protagonist.Celebrate What's Broken Yachatz teaches that brokenness isn't a defect—it's a doorway. By honoring what's missing, we create space for growth, connection, and Divine presence. Real healing begins when we stop pretending to be whole.You Are Part of a 3,337-Year Legacy While other civilizations forget, we remember. The power of the Seder is memory with mission: to remind us that no matter where we are, freedom is always the next chapter if we have the courage to write it.Humility is Freedom's Secret Ingredient Matzah isn't just flat—it's freeing. The opposite of ego isn't weakness; it's openness. Freedom requires the courage to say, “Maybe I don't know everything.” That humility invites new beginnings.Freedom Begins in the Heart Egypt isn't just a place—it's a mindset. It's the voice that says, “This is how it's always been.” But G-d gave us a hidden “escape hatch”—a shift in perception, a crack of hope, a step toward healing. Your freedom begins when you stop being “right” and start being real.#Passover #seder #freedom #matzah #Jewish #Judaism #pesachPassover Seder, Freedom, Matzah, Humility, Jewish Identity, Vulnerability, Brokenness, Personal Growth, Group Therapy, Jewish Memory, Healing, Transformation, Ego, Yachatz, Exodus, Egypt, Legacy, Soul WorkSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Who is the Wicked Son?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 4:10


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Four Questions are Really Four Answers

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 6:36


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Fire, Ice, and the Narcissist King: A Lesson in Humility and Empathy

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2025 32:18


    In the story of the seventh plague, hail, Pharaoh finally admits he was wrong after seeing hail mixed with fire from the sky—a strange and powerful miracle. This moment shows us that even someone as stubborn and self-centered as Pharaoh can have a moment of realization. The mix of fire and ice in the hail represents Pharaoh's personality: cold and unfeeling towards others but fiery and passionate about his own needs.The reason the plague was hail is significant too. Egypt didn't depend on rain because of the Nile River, so they never looked up and depended on something higher than themselves. This is like Pharaoh's narcissism, where he only depended on himself and never considered a higher power or the needs of others.However, Pharaoh's realization was short-lived, teaching us that overcoming deep-seated selfishness requires more than just a moment of clarity. It needs a fundamental change in how one views themselves and their place in the world.Takeaways:Self-reflection is crucial: Even the most stubborn person can have moments of clarity. It's important to reflect on our actions and consider their impact on others.Empathy over ego: The story teaches the importance of caring for others, not just ourselves. Being aware of others' feelings and needs helps us grow as individuals.The role of humility: Recognizing a higher power or something greater than ourselves can help combat selfishness. It's a reminder that we're not the center of the universe.Change takes time: True change in character and perspective is not instantaneous; it requires continuous effort and humility.By learning from Pharaoh's mistake, we're reminded to stay empathetic, humble, and open to change, ensuring we don't fall into the trap of self-obsession.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Come and Eat

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 31, 2025 4:04


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Why Do We Sanctify then Wash?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 5:20


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover | Matzah - What was the Rush About?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2025 4:47


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    A Passover Seder Introduction

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2025 7:50


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Moses Didn't Just Free Slaves... He Changed Humanity's Vocabulary

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 29:58


    The Exodus from Egypt was not just a historical event—it was a revolution in human consciousness. Moses didn't only break the physical chains of slavery; he shattered the psychological and spiritual limitations that kept humanity in bondage. This class explores how the Exodus introduced the language of freedom, inspiring revolutions, civil rights movements, and personal transformation throughout history. We will uncover how the lessons of Pesach continue to empower us to break free from limitations, redefine our identities, and pursue a life of purpose and growth.Key Takeaways:Slavery is a Mentality: The true bondage in Egypt was not just physical but a deeply ingrained mindset of submission and despair.The Power of Language: Moses introduced a new vocabulary of freedom, instilling in humanity the idea that change is possible.Exodus as a Blueprint: The story of the Exodus has fueled countless movements for justice, from the American Revolution to the Civil Rights movement.Personal Redemption: Every time we overcome fear, bad habits, or societal expectations, we reenact the Exodus in our own lives.Pesach as an Eternal Spring: Just as Passover must always fall in spring, the message of renewal, hope, and transformation is timeless.#Passover #Judaism #Pesach #Moses #freedom #personalgrowth #personalresponsibility #civilrights #humandignity #Redemption #chabad #Rabbi #jewishholiday Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Passover

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 4:30


    Learn More About Passover http://www.jewishndg.com/passoverChabad NDG Passover 2024 http://www.jewishndg.com/sederYou can sponsor a needy person or family this Passover. They need your support, it goes a long way!  https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=9I made a special Haggadah that will help you go through the Seder step-by-step by yourself without any previous knowledge of the ability to read Hebrew. https://www.jewishndg.com/media/pdf/1153/hmhQ11536358.pdfIf you would like to sell your Chametz for the privacy of your own home http://www.jewishndg.com/holidays/passover/sell_chometz_cdo/jewish/Sell-Your-Chametz-Online.htmSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Pekudei | The Journey of our Lives

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2025 10:02


    Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Finding Truth in an Imperfect World: Plato vs. Kabbalah.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 31:14


    Plato argued that reality is found in perfect, unchanging ideals, while the physical world is merely a flawed reflection. Chassidic thought challenges this notion, asserting that G-d's presence is found precisely in the imperfect, physical world. Through the lens of this debate, we explored how this idea impacts our relationships, personal growth, and spiritual journey—showing that meaning and divine purpose emerge from engaging with reality as it is, rather than escaping to an idealized version of it.Key Takeaways:Plato's philosophy separates the ideal from the real, placing truth in abstract perfection.Kabbalah teaches that G-d's presence is in the here and now, within life's imperfections.The Torah's repetition of the Mishkan's construction emphasizes that holiness is not in a divine blueprint but in human action.Growth, relationships, and meaning are found in embracing life's struggles, not escaping them.True beauty is not perfection—it's the courage to build something holy in an imperfect world.Notes: See Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, The Dignity of Difference, for a detailed explanation of this idea of Plato and its impact on Western thought."G-d desired a dwelling in the lowly realms" (Midrash Tanchuma, Nasso 16);  "This is what man is all about, this is the purpose of his creation and of the creation of all worlds, supernal and ephemeral" (Tanya, chapter 36).#Kabbalah #Judaism #Plato #Rabbi #chabad #Jewish #Bible #BibleStudy #Torah #TorahPortion #TorahLessons #Vayakhel #ParshatVayakhelSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Vayakhel | A Family Type of Community

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 9:55


    Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    The Purim Story & Understanding the Uniqueness of Anti-Semitism and the Jewish Response

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 49:15


    Anti-Semitism is not merely another form of bigotry or racial hatred—it is unique in its universality, its persistence throughout history, and its deep, irrational roots. From Pharaoh to Hitler, from ancient Persia to modern-day university campuses, the Jew has been targeted with a singular, unparalleled intensity. Why? What makes this hatred different from all other hatreds?This class delves into the core of Jew-hatred, exploring its historical patterns and its spiritual roots. The Talmudic parable of the "mound and the ditch" reveals that anti-Semitism is not simply about economics, politics, or cultural tensions—it is about something much deeper. The world has an innate reaction to the presence of the Jew, a reaction that stems from the unique role that the Jewish people play in history as the bearers of Divine morality.Through the lens of Torah, the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, and a contemporary analysis of world events—including the resurgence of anti-Semitism post-October 7, 2023—this class seeks to answer the unanswerable: Why does the world hate the Jew? And, more importantly, how should we respond?Key Takeaways:A Hatred Like No Other – Anti-Semitism has persisted for thousands of years across all cultures and ideologies, defying conventional explanations.The "Mound and the Ditch" Paradigm – The Talmud describes two types of anti-Semites: those who see Jews as an unwanted obstacle and those who feel an existential void because of Jewish morality.The Sinai Connection – The world's rejection of Jewish existence is linked to our mission as bearers of Divine ethics, which some embrace and others resent.Appeasement Does Not Work – History has proven that trying to minimize or hide Jewish identity never quells anti-Semitism; it often exacerbates it.The Jewish Response – Strengthening our connection to G-d, embracing Torah and mitzvot, and standing firm in Jewish pride is the only true antidote to anti-Semitism.#Antisemitism #Judaism #Purim #JewishHistory #Haman #Rebbe #habad #chabad #Jewishsurvival #Talmud #Jewish #MoralCourage #MoralResponsibility #JewishIdentity Eye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Rebroadcast: The Brief Story of Purim with Rabbi Yisroel Bernath

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 30:21


    The Setting: After the destruction of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem, the Jewish people are subjects under King Ahasuerus of Persia. The story begins with the king throwing a grand party, during which Queen Vashti is banished for her refusal to display her beauty to the guests.Esther's Rise to Queen: Seeking a new queen, Ahasuerus holds a beauty contest. Esther, a Jewish girl raised by her cousin Mordechai, is chosen despite her reluctance and without revealing her Jewish identity.Mordechai's Discovery: Mordechai uncovers a plot to assassinate the king and reports it, saving Ahasuerus's life.Haman's Plot: Haman, the prime minister and a Jew-hater, becomes infuriated with Mordechai's refusal to bow to him. He convinces the king to issue a decree to annihilate all Jews on the 13th of Adar.Esther's Courage: Upon learning of Haman's decree, Mordechai convinces Esther to intervene. Esther bravely approaches the king, revealing her Jewish identity and exposing Haman's plot.The Turn of Events: The king orders Haman's execution on the gallows originally intended for Mordechai. Esther and Mordechai then write a new decree allowing Jews to defend themselves.Victory and Celebration: The Jews defeat their enemies across the empire, and the day of their victory, the 14th of Adar, is established as the joyous holiday of Purim, celebrating the miraculous turn of events that saved them.Eye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Ki Tisa: The Cards are in the obvious place.

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2025 8:37


    Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    The Foolish Bird and the Eternal People: Understanding Haman's Failed Strategy

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 38:34


    The Midrash compares Haman's plot against the Jews to a foolish bird attempting to drain the sea, beakful by beakful. At first glance, this fable highlights the impossibility of eradicating the Jewish people. But upon deeper examination, it reveals the secret of Jewish survival, the core reason for antisemitism, and the unbreakable bond between the Jewish soul and Torah. Haman's mistake was in thinking that severing Jews from Torah would make them vulnerable to destruction—yet, as history has shown, even when Jews have drifted from their spiritual roots, their intrinsic connection to G-d and Torah remains. This class explores why the Jewish people have endured against all odds and what this means for our own Jewish identity today.Key Takeaways:The Midrash's Metaphor – Haman's attempt to destroy the Jews was as foolish as a bird trying to empty an ocean. But why? This metaphor reveals deeper truths about Jewish resilience.The Secret of Antisemitism – Haman, like many persecutors throughout history, saw Jewish existence as a threat. Why have so many tyrants sought to destroy the Jewish people?The Relationship Between Jews and Torah – The Torah is to Jews what water is to fish. Even when Jews drift, they cannot fully detach from their Divine essence.G-d's ‘Unsuccessful' Plan – The Midrash states that even G-d could not destroy the Jewish people. What does this mean, and what does it teach us about the Jewish soul?Haman's ‘Final Solution' – His real plan wasn't just genocide—it was to dry up the Jewish connection to Torah and assimilate them into Persian society. This strategy failed, just as all others have throughout history.The Eternal Bond – The Jews have outlived every empire that sought their destruction, proving that their essence is eternal.A Call to Jewish Unity – If a Jew was Jewish enough for Hitler to send to the gas chambers, he is Jewish enough for us to love and embrace. Jewish survival is not just a historical fact—it is a personal responsibility.#Purim #Jewish #Antisemitism #Judaism #Faith #Rabbi #chabad #Jewishsurvival #Torah #BookofEsther #MegillahSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Silencing Inner Pharaohs: The Power of Untranslated Truths

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 25:29


    Navigating the choppy waters of our inner Nile, where the Pharaoh of Negative Thought reigns supreme, Rabbi Bernath offers a sage map for the modern soul's Exodus. Picture this: an inner Pharaoh, all ego and no ear, refusing the logic we offer as liberally as matzah at Pesach. It's an ancient tale, yet as current as our latest tweet.Enter Moshe, our timeless hero, speaking Hebrew to a Pharaoh who's as lost in translation as a tourist without Google Maps. The catch? It's not about the words, but the Divine energy they carry, slicing through stubbornness like a hot knife through butter. Consider the Chafetz Chaim, whose Yiddish plea melted Polish hearts without a single word understood—a testament to the soul's language, transcending the babble of Babel.Then there's the 7/38/55 rule, a reminder that our vibes speak louder than our vocabulary. The body's ballet and the tone's tune tell tales our tongues can't touch.So when faced with our own Pharaoh—be it doubt, fear, or the Sunday Scaries—Rabbi Bernath advises a strategy as bold as it is biblical: Speak in your soul's native tongue. No translation needed. For it's not the clarity of argument, but the purity of our Divine essence, that can topple tyranny within.In essence, Rabbi Bernath suggests, when logic's light dims and reason's ropes fray, it's time to unfurl the banner of our inherent holiness, declaring our truths in a language beyond words. Like Moshe, we stand before our inner Pharaoh not to debate, but to demonstrate—a conduit of Divine will, unyielding and unfiltered.In doing so, we don't just speak to our shadows; we illuminate them, transforming the inner Egypt into a land flowing with milk, honey, and the sweet freedom of self-mastery. So let's raise our staffs, part our personal Red Seas, and march towards a promised land of inner peace and purpose, one holy utterance at a time.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Echoes of the Unseen: Finding Meaning in What's Missing | Rabbi Bernath's on Parshat Tetzavah

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 19:15


    In this week's Torah portion, Tetzaveh, we embark on a journey of absence that paradoxically illuminates presence, a mystical dance where what is not seen or heard whispers louder than the clamor of what is. Welcome to "Echoes of the Unseen," an episode that delves into the human penchant for fixating on the missing pieces, rather than the mosaic of abundance that surrounds us.Imagine, if you will, a family in mourning, enveloped by a community's embrace, yet fixated on the one who failed to show. Or a newly engaged couple, showered with well-wishes, yet stewing over a single absent congratulation. It's a peculiar focus, isn't it? Our hearts, like mischievous sprites, skipping over a hundred hellos to sulk over one silent goodbye.This brings us to the heart of our Torah reading. In a curious twist of fate, or perhaps divine choreography, Moses, our indefatigable leader, finds his name conspicuously absent from this week's parsha, Tetzaveh. A parsha that ironically, speaks of him more than any other, precisely because he is not mentioned. It's as if by omitting his name, the Torah invites us into a deeper engagement, prompting us to ponder, "Where is Moses?"The Rebbe, drawing on the insight of the Baal HaTurim, connects this to Moses' selfless plea to be erased from the divine narrative should his people not be forgiven. Thus, in a paradoxical act of presence through absence, Moses' name is etched deeper into the fabric of our collective memory.And so, as we approach Purim, we encounter another divine irony in the Scroll of Esther. Here, G-d's name is nowhere to be found, yet, like the story of Tetzaveh, G-d's presence is palpable in every line, every turn of fate. This hiddenness serves as a mirror to our lives, where divine orchestration often masquerades as coincidence, inviting us to seek the hidden hand that guides us.Through the lens of David and Jonathan's story, we are reminded of the potency of what is not said, what is not seen. David, the absent guest at Saul's table, becomes the focal point, his empty seat a silent testament to the turmoil and loyalty that defines his and Jonathan's bond."Echoes of the Unseen" invites us to consider how absence shapes our perception, how the unseen and unsaid can sometimes speak the loudest. In the missing names and silent spaces, we find a call to presence, an invitation to see beyond the visible, to listen for the whispers of what is not spoken, and in doing so, perhaps understand the divine and human narratives more profoundly.So, as we navigate the landscapes of loss and love, let us embrace the peculiar focus, for in the spaces between, in the silence and the absence, lies the potential for deeper connection, understanding, and spiritual awakening.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Tetzaveh | What is True Leadership?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2025 10:52


    Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Whispering Cedars: The Trees That Carried a Nation's Hope

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 27:39


    This week's Torah portion, Terumah, describes the construction of the Mishkan (Tabernacle) using cedarwood (atzei shitim). But why did Jacob plant these cedars in Egypt 210 years before they were needed? The Midrash, quoted by Rashi, tells us that Jacob foresaw the need for them and instructed his children to take them along when they left Egypt.The Lubavitcher Rebbe explains that these trees were more than just building materials—they were a source of comfort, resilience, and faith for the Jewish people during their bitter enslavement. Planted by Jacob, they stood as a tangible promise of redemption, whispering to the suffering Israelites that they were not meant to remain in exile forever. Just as the trees endured, so too would the Jewish people.The lesson extends beyond Egypt: Every generation has its "cedars"—spiritual giants, tzaddikim, and leaders who remind us of our true identity and mission. Like these steadfast trees, they give us strength to transcend exile, stay rooted in our values, and look forward to redemption.Key Takeaways:Long-Term Vision: Jacob's foresight teaches us the power of planning ahead—not just materially, but spiritually.Tangible Hope: The cedars were more than trees; they were a physical reminder that exile was temporary and redemption was coming.The Role of Leaders: Just as Jacob's cedars gave the Israelites hope, tzaddikim serve as spiritual cedars, guiding and uplifting us in times of darkness.Endurance & Redemption: We, too, carry within us the strength to remain steadfast in our mission, knowing that our journey leads to Moshiach.#TorahPortion #Bible #Terumah #Mishkan #BibleStudy #Rebbe #chabad #Redemption #HopeAndResilience #Hope #Exile #Exodus #Faith Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Teruma | Am I just Blindly Following the Crowd?

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2025 5:52


    Send us a textSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Acts of Love: From Question to Action with Rabbi Yisroel Bernath

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 16, 2025 15:45


    Send us a textThis episode  dances around the age-old question, "What is Love?", the exploration begins with a universal quandary: the reason we question love's essence often stems from feelings of deficiency—either doubting the love from someone special or facing accusations of insufficient love ourselves. It suggests a poignant truth: we are most inclined to philosophize about love when its presence is questioned or feels lacking, much like no one questions the nature of a pastrami sandwich whilst enjoying one.The narrative then divides the quest into two lanes: "Am I Loved?" and "Do I Love?", indicating that understanding love's impact on us can illuminate how we express love towards others. Love, as presented, is not an elusive sentiment detected by a mysterious heart's sensor but rather a series of tangible experiences perceived through our senses, validated by actions and expressions that signal to our brains and, consequently, to our hearts, the presence of love.King Solomon's words in Proverbs "As water reflects a man's face back to him, so is the heart of one man to another" is invoked to underscore that love, at its core, is a reflection, a reciprocal action that one can feel and recognize through the treatment they receive.The episode emphasizes that love is fundamentally an action. It shifts the narrative from abstract conceptualization to practical expression, illustrating that love, akin to running or swimming, is defined by its enactment. The Hebrew word for love, "ahavah", rooted in the act of giving, encapsulates this ideology, positing that genuine love must manifest through tangible acts of kindness and care.The discussion culminates with a divine perspective on love, referencing the commandment to love G-d, not as an emotional imposition but as a directive towards actionable love. This divine instruction echoes the broader theme: love is verified and validated through actions rather than mere feelings or declarations.Takeaways:Love as Reflection and Recognition: We seek the essence of love most acutely when its presence is in doubt. True love, however, is recognized through the actions and treatment we receive and give.Love is Action, Not Just Emotion: The essence of love is captured not in abstract contemplation but in concrete actions and behaviors that convey care and affection.The Divine Instruction on Love: The command to love God highlights the action-oriented nature of love, pushing us towards deeds of kindness as the true measure of love.In essence, to question "What is Love?" is to embark on a journey from doubt to action, from introspection to expression, leading us to understand that the truest answer lies in how we act and respond to love in our lives. Love, therefore, is not just a state of being but a series of deliberate, loving actions that reflect our deepest commitments to others.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Celebrating Tu B'Shvat: Healing the World with Every Bite!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 22:11


    Send us a textDive into the profound spiritual significance of Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish 'New Year for Trees.' This class unravels how this ancient day, once focused on tithing fruits as per Talmudic teachings, evolved into a powerful tool for cosmic repair, as revealed by Kabbalistic wisdom. Discover how the simple act of eating fruits during the Tu B'Shvat feast isn't just a culinary delight but a ritual of mending the rift caused by Adam and Eve's original mistake. Learn how enjoying these earthly delights reconnects us with the Divine, transforming our physical world from a barrier into a bridge to spiritual fulfillment. Join us in exploring how Tu B'Shvat is not just about fruit, but about turning our earthly pleasures into paths to divine connection and making the world a bit more like paradise with every bite.#TuBShvat #SpiritualFeast #CosmicHealing #JewishTradition #KabbalahInsightsSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Rebroadcast: Positive Jewish Identity | Rabbi Bernath's Weekly Sermon 2024

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2025 18:20


    Send us a textThis week's sermon reflects on the resilience and unity of our community. The book 'Buried by the Times' sheds light on a past where the Holocaust's truth struggled to find its rightful place in public consciousness, hidden away in the back pages of history's draft. Yet, this story isn't just about what was buried; it's a call to unearth our collective strength and purpose.Parshat Yitro brings the powerful symbol of the shofar, reminding us that awakening and unity are at the heart of our journey. From the echoes of the Holocaust to the triumphs of the Six-Day War, we've seen the shofar's call to action in our own times, stirring us to remember, to unite, and to act with courage and love.As we reflect on our history, we see not just the challenges, but the incredible victories and the miracles that have shaped us. These stories teach us that it's not just about surviving; it's about thriving, about taking pride in our identity, and about moving forward with positive action.Let's carry this spirit into every aspect of our lives, embracing our heritage with joy and a commitment to making a difference. Together, we're not just remembering the past; we're building a future filled with light, learning, and love.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Yitro: The Goldilocks Principle

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2025 9:35


    Send us a textSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    "I Have Come to My Garden" – The Chassidic Discourse that Defines Our Generation

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 41:05


    Send us a textThis class explores the seminal Chassidic discourse Basi LeGani, first written by the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, and later expanded upon annually by his successor, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson. This discourse outlines the purpose of creation: transforming the world into G‑d's garden, a place of divine presence. It introduces the responsibility of the “Seventh Generation”—our generation—to complete this mission and usher in the final redemption. Through themes of personal transformation, divine revelation, and the power of "holy folly," we uncover the Rebbe's call to action: to bring G‑d's presence into every aspect of the world.Key Takeaways:The Garden is Our World – Basi LeGani describes G‑d's desire to dwell in this physical world, not just in the heavens. Our task is to make the world a home for Him.The Mission of the Seventh Generation – Like Moses, the seventh leader in his lineage, our generation—the seventh since the Alter Rebbe—is tasked with completing the divine plan.Transforming Darkness into Light – The discourse emphasizes that our struggles with the “inner animal” are part of the mission; by channeling our desires toward holiness, we refine ourselves and the world.Holy Folly – True service of G‑d sometimes requires acting beyond logic, just as the Tabernacle was built from shittim (wood related to shtut, folly). We must counter worldly foolishness with a deeper devotion that transcends reason.A Call to Action – The Rebbe's words demand more than study—they require us to actively bring others closer to Torah and mitzvot, ensuring that no soul is left behind in preparing the world for Moshiach.#chabad #Rebbe #chassidic #basilegnai #lubavitch #LubavitcherRebbe #Shechinah #YudShevatSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Empowering Every Human: The Rebbe's Revolutionary Vision of Leadership and Redemption

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2025 25:02


    Send us a textOn Yud Shevat 5711 (1951), the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi MM Schneerson, revolutionized Jewish leadership. He declared a bold vision, not merely to anticipate Moshiach in a distant future, but to actively work towards this era in our lifetime. This audacious goal was set against the backdrop of post-Holocaust Jewish reality, challenging every Jew to contribute to this ultimate redemption.The Rebbe's approach to leadership was groundbreaking. He insisted on a partnership model, where he would guide, but each individual was responsible for their own spiritual and worldly contribution. This was exemplified in his Sunday interactions, where the simple act of giving a dollar for charity transformed recipients into 'shluchim,' agents of positive change and personal responsibility.The essence of the Rebbe's philosophy was beautifully encapsulated in his interaction with Gabriel Erem. Rather than focusing on his own greatness, the Rebbe redirected attention to the potential within every Jew. By redefining 'tzadik' and 'rebbe,' he democratized spiritual greatness, making it accessible to all. His teachings continue to inspire a vision where personal achievement and universal perfection are inextricably linked, empowering every Jew to be a leader in their own right.You can join Rabbi Bernath every Thursday at 9am EST for a fantastic conversation on Zoom. Just email rabbi@jewishndg.com to get the zoom link.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    The Plague of Darkness: The Battle Between Conscience and Corruption

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2025 29:27


    Send us a textThis class does a deep dive into the  psychological and mystical significance of Pharaoh's final confrontation with Moses before the tenth plague. Throughout the first nine plagues, Pharaoh displayed a surprising level of tolerance towards Moses, despite the devastation he brought upon Egypt. But after the plague of darkness, something shifted—Pharaoh snapped and threatened Moses' life. Why was this the breaking point? Through Kabbalistic insight, we explore the Pharaoh within us all: the force that disconnects intellect from heart, numbing us to truth. Like an addict resisting recovery, Pharaoh's descent into darkness mirrors the way we sometimes silence our own inner voice of conscience. Moses' slap was not just an act of defiance—it was a symbolic moment marking Pharaoh's complete spiritual collapse.Key Takeaways:Pharaoh vs. Moses as an Inner Struggle: Pharaoh represents the ego's resistance to change, while Moses is the voice of our moral conscience.Why Darkness Was the Breaking Point: The plague of darkness symbolizes the moment a person loses not only emotional awareness but also intellectual perception, making true transformation nearly impossible.The Danger of Losing Sight: A person may endure emotional and even intellectual corruption, but as long as they retain a glimmer of awareness—of something greater than themselves—there is still hope.The Addict's Battle: Many struggle with self-destructive behaviors, hating yet needing their inner “Moses.” The moment they fully reject that voice, they risk losing themselves entirely.Moses' Slap as a Spiritual Statement: The slap symbolizes that Pharaoh had lost all divine presence within him. He was no longer just a cruel oppressor; he was a man who had extinguished his own soul.This class challenges us to consider: Are we listening to our inner Moses, or are we allowing our Pharaoh to take over? And most importantly—have we reached a point of darkness where we no longer even see the battle?#Bible #Passover #Moses #BibleStudy #TorahLessons #Torah #Bo #Pharaoh #moshe #Kabbalah #TorahPortion #Sermon #Rabbi #chabad Eye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    The Thief Within: Unmasking the Ten Plagues of the Soul

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2025 42:15


    Send us a textThis lecture explores the profound parable of The Thief by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, who teaches that every soul contends with an inner thief—an inclination that robs us of our divine light. Drawing parallels between this concept and the Ten Plagues, Rabbi Bernath delves into how each plague symbolizes a distortion of the ten faculties of the soul, as described in Kabbalah. These ancient episodes of spiritual dysfunction mirror the psychological struggles we face today. Through understanding the anatomy of our soul and the symbolic meaning of the plagues, we uncover a roadmap to self-recovery and spiritual transformation.Takeaways:The Inner Thief: Recognizing the negative impulses within us is the first step to reclaiming our inner peace.Plagues as Life Lessons: The Ten Plagues symbolize spiritual dysfunctions in the soul, offering timeless lessons for introspection and growth.Refinement of the Soul: Each plague corresponds to a faculty of the soul—confidence, compassion, love, and others—highlighting the necessity to channel these energies positively.Path to Redemption: Liberation from our "Mitzrayim" begins with honest self-awareness, confronting our inner distortions, and returning to our divine purpose.The Power of Recovery: Even when the thief within seems to have consumed all, recovery and renewal are always possible.#Kabbalah #TenPlagues #Judaism #Jewish #Egypt #Mitzrayim #InnerThief #Sprirital #JewishHistory #Bible #Exodus #Vaera #TorahPortion #Torah #TorahLessons Create Harmony This is a podcast about setting an intentional rhythm, savoring life's blessings and...Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Eye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    What is Love Really?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2025 30:15


    Send us a text"What is Love?" Love is redefined beyond the conventional understanding of a mere emotion or a passive state of being. We emphasized that love is an obligation and a directive, as illustrated in Leviticus 19:18, which commands to "love your fellow as yourself." This idea suggests that love is not just a spontaneous feeling but an active choice and action. Before one can extend love to others, it's crucial to first develop a sense of love for oneself. This foundational self-love sets the stage for meaningful and authentic relationships with others.We further explored the idea that the essence of love is deeply rooted in the act of giving. It posits that love begins with giving and grows through consistent, thoughtful acts of kindness and generosity. This concept challenges the popular notion of love as a feeling that happens to us, suggesting instead that love is something we actively create through our actions. The more we give, the deeper our capacity for love becomes. This principle is encapsulated in the phrase, "First comes giving, then comes love," highlighting the transformative power of giving in cultivating and sustaining love. The chapter concludes by asserting that love is not just about feelings but about the deliberate and ongoing practice of giving, which ultimately shapes and strengthens our relationships.You can join Rabbi Bernath every Thursday at 9am EST for a fantastic conversation on Zoom. Just email rabbi@jewishndg.com to get the zoom link.Create Harmony This is a podcast about setting an intentional rhythm, savoring life's blessings and...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    What Would Moses Do? The Courage to Confront Injustice

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025 24:41


    Send us a textIn today's class Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores the qualities that made Moses the ultimate leader of the Jewish people, as demonstrated in three defining episodes from his early life. Moses' unwavering commitment to confronting injustice, even at great personal risk, offers timeless lessons on leadership and moral responsibility. As we face the terror threatening our brothers and sisters in Israel, Moses' example provides a powerful framework for navigating the tension between compassion and righteous might, underscoring that peace is achieved not through appeasement but by confronting evil head-on.Key Takeaways:1. Leadership Requires Action: True leaders, like Moses, act decisively in the face of injustice, regardless of the context or the identities of those involved.2. Moral Courage: At times, moral violence is necessary to protect the innocent and uphold justice, as in the case of Moses defending a Hebrew slave.3. The Dangers of Appeasement: History shows that appeasing evil leads to greater suffering, as demonstrated by the Oslo Accords and similar policies.4. A Balance of Strength and Compassion: While Isaiah's vision of peace inspires us, the path to achieving it sometimes demands force, as articulated by the prophet Joel.5. Timeless Leadership Model: Moses' early life teaches us that a leader must be willing to sacrifice personal comfort to confront evil and protect the vulnerable.#Israel #BibleStudy #Moses #Exodus #Torah #TorahLessons #Leadership #moshe #MoralResponsibility #MoralCourage#Isaiah #Joel #osloaccords #jewishleadership #MoralCourage #Peace Create Harmony This is a podcast about setting an intentional rhythm, savoring life's blessings and...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

    Parshat Shemot | Take Off Your Shoes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 5:54


    Send us a textSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

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