It Is Taught Tanya Podcast

Special Tu B'Shvat EpisodeBased in part on a discourse by the Lubavitcher Rebbe found in Toras menachem from the year 5722 (1962) Link to related Times of Israel BlogpostSupport the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss the importance of setting aside set times to learn Shluchan Aruch and practical halachos as well as Chassidus and how the main point of this learning and developing our prayer practice is to keep Torah and Mitzvos and to infuse our Torah and Mitzvos with more illumination and vitality.  Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapters 17 &18 Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss how working people (i.e those who don't have that much time to devote to meditation and prayer and are pre-occupied with worldly affairs throughout their day) can implement the principles of this tractate.  Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 16.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss how accepting the yoke of Heaven and having an awareness that G-d is our Master is something which is essential for everyone and how this should lead a person to self reflection and improvement.  Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 15.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we compare the lower levels of intent in both Torah learning and prayer in terms of where they ascend to. Kuntres Acharon, End of Essay 3. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the relativity of what is meant by spiritual ascension as it applies to the results from our actions and intentions. Kuntres Acharon, Middle of Essay 3.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the effects our prayer and Torah study have on high depending on our intentions or lack thereof. Kuntres Acharon, Beginning of Essay 3. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss why physical mitzvos are necessary to affect the supernal union of Male and Female. Kuntres Acharon, Essay 2Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss the advice the Rebbe Rashab has for those younger students who do not have enough knowledge of Chassidus to meditate and pray on the highest level in an authentic manner. Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 14.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we explore the spiritual effects of thought/intention and speech in regards to Torah learning as well as when both are present. Kuntrus Acharon, Essay 1. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the Shechina is likened to the heart which transmits its vitality all of the created worlds via the souls of the Jewish people, which are likened to the limbs in relation to the Shechina. Iggeres HaKodesh, Epistle 31.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.comSupport the show

In today's episode we discuss two different types of Tzedaka giving - one being "feminine" and one being "masculine" - and the different spiritual effects that each has. Iggeres HaKodesh Epistle 32.Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how a person should not diminish the frequency with which they are habituated to giving Tzedaka, nor the amount they are habituated to give. Iggeres HaKodesh, Epistle 30. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss why the Oral Torah is referred to as "Mother", the study of which, in particular the laws contained therein, reveals the level of "Crown", which surrounds and is higher than the Written Torah, which is referred to as "Father"Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 29. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how doing the practical mitzvos garb the soul with light from Lower Gan Eden, while attaching proper intention to the mitzvos while performing them, allows the soul to ascend to Higher Gan Eden. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 29. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the mitzvos can be likened to hollow pillars that elevate our souls to G-d's Attribute of Keter Above. Iggeres Hakodesh, Middle of Epistle 29.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the connection between Pleasure and Desire and how this relates to the Light of G-d that vests souls when we do Mitzvos. Iggeres Hakodesh, Middle of Epistle 29. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the mitzvos serve as garments for us to be able to access G-d's Light without ceasing to exist. Iggeres HaKodeshm Beginning of Epistle 29. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss those people who do not refine their character traits in spite of serving G-d through prayer and what they can do about that.   Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 13.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we explore the second part of the letter of condolence the Alter Rebbe wrote to Rabbi Levi Yitchak of Berditchov.Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 28. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the first part of a letter of condolence which the Alter Rebbe wrote to Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditzchov after the passing of his son R' Meir. Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 28.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the Tzaddik's continues to illuminate his followers after he passes away, even from the higher Neshama level.Iggeres HaKodesh, end of Epistle 27. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the impression the Tzaddik makes during their life through their Faith, Awe and Love remains after they pass away and is accessible to their students in a more essential way than it was during their life. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 27. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the life of a Tzaddik is never physical but rather is oriented towards Faith, Awe and Love (of G-d).Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 27.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the second half of the letter of consolation the Alter Rebbe wrote to his Chassidim after the passing of Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk.Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 27. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss the Rebbe Rashab's advice for someone who is not spiritual sensitive enough to be able to connect during his prayers properly due to him being overly content/comfortable with himself.  Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 12.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we begin discussing a letter of consolation the Alter Rebbe wrote to his followers after the passing of Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk. Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 27. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss what our focus will be in the Messianic Era when all of the fallen sparks have been redeemed. Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 26. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how every Jew has the obligation to come up with new Torah insights ("chidushim") and what this accomplishes. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 26. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the debate format in Talmudic study, serves to extract the sparks of Supernal Wisdom from their entrapment in exile. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 26. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss what the "Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil" means spiritually speaking, if it's not the study of Jewish Law. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 26. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the laws of the Torah will still be relevant in the Messianic Era.Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 26. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how Jewish law must also be termed the "Tree of Life" (and not the "Tree of Good and Bad"). Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 26. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss a citation from the Zohar concerning the Messianic Era. Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 26.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss step five of five of how to prepare oneself to pray - which is to try to cultivate a recognition through praying that one is standing before G-d when they pray.  Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 11, Part 4.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the conclusion of the Alter Rebbe's answer to the opponents of the teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov regarding the Schechina being vested within idolators.Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Alter Rebbe's advice on what to do if someone distracts you during your prayers or learning. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 25.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the bad overpowers the good in exile. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's Tanya we learn why it is important to speak the words out loud when praying or learning Torah. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epsistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

This is a special series in honor of Elul focusing on Prayer, based on Kuntres Hatefilla (Tract on Prayer) by the Rebbe Rashab ( Rabbi Sholom DovBer Schneerson)In today's episode we discuss step four of five of how to prepare oneself to pray - which is to arouse G-d's attribute of mercy on account of the great descent of your G-dly soul into this world. Kuntres HaTefilla, Chapter 11, Part 3. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we address how it is that G-d's Speech, which is One and Unified, radiates through the four general worlds. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how G-d's radiance flows down to our world in an exiled state. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Kabbalistic understanding of G-d's "Speech".Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Alter Rebbe's review of the teaching of the perpetuality of ex nihilo creation according to the Alter Rebbe. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Alter Rebbe's commentary on a teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov as to why anger is likened to idolatry. Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 25.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how one must make themselves appear as if they are standing in front of a king while praying. Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 24.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how one should not discuss personal affairs during times of communal prayers. Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 24. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the importance of learning the halachos of Shabbos specifically with a congregation of 10 (or more) Jews on Shabbos at Mincha time. We also learn about how a person should not separate themselves from the congregation during this learning time. Iggeres HaKodesh, end of Epistle 23. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Alter Rebbe's value for the practice of learning Ein Yaakov as well as practical Mitzvos in groups of (at least) 10 Jews on weekdays between Mincha and Ma'ariv prayers. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 23. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how upset the Alter Rebbe was when people would speak about frivolous matters before or after praying in synagogue. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 23. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss how the Shechina that is drawn down when ten Jews gather together hovers above them, as it is too intense and infinite a radiance to be vested within their souls while the souls are limited by physical bodies. Iggeres HaKodesh, Middle of Epistle 23. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show