MyLife: Chassidus Applied

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Post Shavuos  End of Sefirah  Lessons from Parshas Nasso  How to deal with estrangement between parents and children? Follow-up   Was the Rebbe loving? Follow-up  How do we address an issue without personalizing it?  What criteria do you use is discussing any given topic?  What would you advise someone whose public statements were misunderstood? 

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Shavuos  What exactly is the Torah and what happened at Mattan Torah?   When was the Torah written? Did it always exist just as G-d always existed, or did G-d write the Torah when He decided to create the world?  Does the Torah contain all of G-d's knowledge, or just the parts that relate to creation and to us?  If we were able to travel to a distant planet, would we be responsible to observe Torah and mitzvos there, or was the Torah only given on Planet Earth?  Was the Torah written all at one time or did it evolve and grow as a document and get edited into what it is today?  What exactly was given at Sinai – the written or the oral Torah?   Why is there a written and an oral Torah?   Why was it okay for the rabbis to write down the oral torah when it was prohibited to do so?  Why then can't we change other prohibitions?  Can there be mistakes in the oral Torah?  Since rabbinic Judaism in the oral Torah is filled with disputes, can we say that those that did not hold by it were on a higher state of Ahavas Yisroel, devoid of arguments?  Why don't the disputes indicate that there are mistakes in the oral Torah?  Since we ignore certain opinions in the Talmud could it be that we are mistaken in our practice?   How did the Avos do the mitzvos before they were given at Sinai?   How did they know Torah before it was given?  If Abraham performed all the mitzvos, why did he wait until age 99 to do a bris?  How could the Jews sleep and need to be awoken for the giving of the Torah?  Why is it considered special that the Jews said naaseh v'nishmah?  Did they say naaseh v'nishmah out of their own free will, or were they compelled to do so?  Why don't we count the 50th day of the Omer?  Why do we sing and dance on Simchas Torah and not on Shavuos when the Torah was given?   Why do we need two separate commandments, one to believe in Hashem, and another not to believe in false gods?  Why does G-d get so angry about idolatry, if other gods don't even exist?  Was the Rebbe loving?        Torah         Mattan Torah 

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Bamidbar  Did the Rebbe suggest that people should visit the Ohel on Lag B'Omer? Follow-up  The students of Rabbi Akiva  When Moshiach comes will there be a coronation ceremony like they made for King Charles of England but on a much grander scale?  Parents and children  Sholom Bayis  Can we ask for wealth? Follow-up  What should be our attitude toward healing methods, like chakra energy healing, which may originate from other spiritual or religious disciplines?    Is there any truth in other spiritual schools of thought? 

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Lag B'Omer  Lessons from Behar-Bechukosei  Why is G-d not responding to us and bringing the Geulah as he did to the Jews who cried out “why are we deprived?!”  Jewish Soul  How should we deal with difficult children? With children who reject their parents?  Why is Lag B'Omer an auspicious time for parents and children to reconnect? 

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • What is the unique work we need to do during this time period? • How is discussing the weekly parsha and time we are in part of applying Chassidus to our personal lives? • Chassidus applied to Pesach Sheni o Do we always have a second chance? o Is there hope after we have been deeply wounded? • Lessons from Emor o Is the Torah basically an instruction manual for how to live and operate in the physical world? o What personal message does this parsha offer us? o What is the best way to discipline children and students? o How do we discipline with love? o What is the story with the son of Shlomit? Why was he so mistreated and ultimately killed? What do we learn from this episode? • In these weeks of the Omer how can we access the corresponding sefira and draw down its flow into our lives? o What is the work related to Tiferes? o What is the work related to Netzach? • What is a soul and how do we connect with it? • How do I connect with a person who seems to be disconnected? • What are the ten powers of the soul and how can we use them to grow and become better people? • What is the definition of a Jewish soul? MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus #Uvalde

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to Beis Iyar o Who was the Rebbe Maharash named after? 01:20 o What is the significance of his birth on tiferes she'btiferes and the connection to l'chatchila ariber? 05:14 o What do we learn from the Rebbe Maharash? 11:20 • Lessons from Acharei Kedoshim o What personal message does this parsha offer us? 25:00 o How do we experience high levels of spirituality while integrating it into our material lives? 25:40 o Since only a soul in a body can perform mitzvos, why do we say “acharei mos kedoshim”? 27:39 • Chassidus Applied to Iyar o What is unique about this month? 20:40 o Is this an opportune month for healing? 23:41 o Is it a good idea to schedule doctor appointments and non-emergency surgeries during this month? 24:00 • Chof Ches Nissan/Moshiach: o What did the Rebbe mean with the words “do whatever you can to bring Moshiach” “with the lights of tohu in the vessels of tikun”? 36:10 o Could we say that new technologies like AI are a sign that we are in the beginning stages of the era of Moshiach? 41:00 • What should our attitude be to people plastering Citi Bikes with images of the Rebbe? 46:03 • Is there any legitimacy to “fire and brimstone” Judaism, attacking and criticizing others and suggesting that we are being punished for transgressions? 50:52 • What is the definition of a soul? 56:02 MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus #Uvalde

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Post Pesach What opportunities do we have at the end of Nissan? Why don't we say a version of al ha'nissim on Pesach? How do we explain that 4/5 of the Jewish people died during the plague of darkness? Why was prayer rejected as an option when the Jews were stuck between the Egyptians and the Red Sea? What is the source of the custom of Moshiach's Seudah on the eighth day of Pesach? What is the difference between Seudas Dovid Malka Meshicha on Motzei Shabbos and Moshiach's Seudah on Acharon Shel Pesach? Did the Jews build the pyramids? How does the redemption from slavery in Egypt over 3,000 years ago help us today to climb out of physical boundaries and limitations and become better people? What are the four levels or stages of geulah? Is there a fifth stage? Why can't Rabbis today undo the ruling about kitniyos on Pesach? Why don't Rabbis prohibit the use of foods that look like chametz? In what areas of our lives can we bring down spiritual blessings by doing physical acts? Chassidus Applied to Chof Ches Nissan What should we do to honor this day? What will the world look like when Moshiach comes? When we declare that we want Moshiach now is that a lack of a faith in G-d's plan to send Moshiach in the time He chooses? Will the first born become kohanim? How does counting the Omer correct a blemish in a particular sefira? What internal work do we need to do during the days of sefira? What is the relevance of the laws in the Rambam that are not applicable today? What should we do to feel less helpless in this increasingly polarizing and infuriating political environment?

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to Yud Alef Nissan o How should we honor this special day? o Did the Rebbe say that the best birthday present he would like to receive would be an increase in learning Torah? o Should we put more emphasis on learning the Rebbe's maamarim? o What were some of the important telegrams the Rebbe Rashab sent to the Rebbes parents before and after his birth? o What happened to the art and gifts the rebbe received at Yud Alef Nissan farbrengens? • Can you teach a class on how hanochos were written and published? • Lessons from Tzemech Tzedek's Hilula on Yud Gimmel Nissan • Lessons from Rambam's birthday on Yud Daled Nissan • Chassidus Applied to Passover o What is the central message of Pesach? o What is the significance of burning the chometz? o Why is it important to eat handmade instead of machine-made matzah? And why is it round? o Why is matzah sometimes called “bread of affliction” and other times “bread of freedom”? o If eating matzah represents humility, why don't we eat it every day of the year? o Should we refuse to invite any wayward children to the Seder? o Are Jews in prison required to do a seder? o Did the Jews build the pyramids? • What should we do about the recent discord in Israel? • Are the recent protests in Israel a form of hakhel? • A call for unprecedented Jewish unity: Invite a Jew you disagree with to your Seder MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus #Uvalde

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to Nissan, Tzav and Shabbos HaGadol o What unique energy radiates during this time? o What personal lessons does the parsha offer us? o Why is the Shabbos before Pesach called the Great Shabbos? o How does Shabbos HaGadol play itself out in our lives? • What insight can you give into the recent upheavals in Israel, with the right-dominated government creating reforms and having thousands of people protesting them? • Should we be concerned with the threat of Russia and other countries using nuclear weapons? • What do I do next after finishing reciting Kaddish for my late mother? • How should we deal with our child who wants to marry someone more modern? • How should we address the recent controversy around women becoming “halachik advisors”? Follow-up • Sholom Bayis o What if my spouse has a personality disorder? o How should we address different religious paths, such as one spouse is a committed Lubavitcher and the other more Litvish or Daati Leumi? • Feedback MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus #Uvalde

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Chof Zayin Adar  Did the Rebbe give us any hints or do anything unusual before Chof Zayin Adar?   What are we supposed to do after the Rebbe's stroke?  What were the Rebbe's last public words before Chof Zayin Adar?   What lessons can we learn from the occurrences of the painful years of 5752-5754 after 27 Adar? How did it affect you? Lessons from Beis Nissan  Please give a short summary and discuss a few innovative ideas of the Rebbe Rashab?  Did the artist Marc Chagall visit the Rebbe Rashab?  Would it be appropriate for our yeshivos to have art and music classes so we can help develop talented artists in our community?  Chassidus Applied to Vayikra   Why is the alef of Vayikra smaller than the other letters?  Why doesn't it say who called Moshe?  What is the spiritual significance of the various types of animal, grain, and incense Temple offerings? And how do we accomplish that today?  What is done if someone cannot afford an offering he is obligated to bring?  What is the spiritual significance of reading the daily Nasi in the month of Nissan?  Can you please comment on the recent controversy around women becoming “halachik advisors”? 

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: How do we increase in the joy of Adar after Purim? What work is required from us in the days between Purim and Pesach? Chassidus Applied to Vayakhel-Pekudei and HachodeshWhat lessons do we learn from the combination of Vayakhel and Pikudei? What is the first thing they did inside the Mishkan? What is the connection between the new moon and the Egyptian exodus? Chassidus Applied to 25 AdarThe creation and birthday of the world The birthday of the Rebbetzin How to resolve differences between spouses?What can I do about my spouse being emotionally unavailable? How can I bridge the gulf created between me and my spouse due to us not being on the same religious level? How do I maintain sholom bayis when my spouse is doing things that I find questionable? What can I do if I love my husband but don't respect him? How do I avoid going into survival/fight mode when my wife criticizes me? Is Yoga kosher? Follow-up:Can we ask for wealth? Psychedelics What is the Jewish approach to mental health?

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: •Chassidus Applied to Purim What is the primary message and lesson of Purim?Why was it important that the miracle be manifest and concealed in nature? Why does the miracle of Purim not cause us to refrain from saying tachnun in the month of Adar?How did Haman justify the killing of all the Jews due to one man, Mordechai, refusing to bow to him? What is the best response to anti-Semitism? Why did Haman's daughter defend the Jews? Why is the holiday named after the lots Haman drew? Is it a good time to buy a lottery ticket? What is the concept of v'nahapoch hu? Is the Rebbe's offer on Purim 5715 for wealth still relevant today? What can we learn from Vashti's decision to resist the king's command? Is it possible that Vashti's rebellion was an act of bravery? How does Vashti's role in the story reflect broader themes of power, gender, and agency in Jewish tradition? How can we use her story to inform our understanding of the social and political dynamics of our own time? •Drinking on Purim Is it forbidden to daven while under the influence of drugs or alcohol? How do we preform the requirement to drink on Purim until we don't know the difference between “cursed is Haman and blessed is Mordechai”? Would Aaron's sons have been allowed to enter the Temple drunk if it was Purim or Simchas Torah? Why didn't Rabba and Reb Zeira learn a lesson from the mistakes of Aaron's sons? • What is the meaning behind the fast day of Adar 9, and did the students of Shammai actually kill the students of Hillel? • Are disagreements bad? • Psychological interventions What is the Torah/Chassidus view on plant medicine and psychedelics? With the recent hype about using these methods to deal with trauma, abuse and addiction, how do we avoid the risks and irresponsible use of these experiences? Were the ketores and other rituals a form of mind-altering experience? What would the Rebbe advise about digging into and dealing with past traumas? Which interventions and therapies are acceptable? How about breathwork? EMDR?

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to 7 Adar What lessons do we learn from Moshe's birth and passing? Why is Moshe relevant to us today? What can I do if I feel incapable of facing my challenges and difficulties? • Chassidus Applied to Tetzaveh: What lessons do we learn from this portion? • If the Torah is G-d's absolute truth, how is it possible to ask two rabbis the exact same question and get two completely different answers? • How to treat a child who has wandered away from Yiddishkeit? What to tell my other children? • How do I do teshuva for a terrible sin? • Is the ego good for anything? • How does prayer work? What are its dynamics? What does Chassidus say about the power of prayer and how prayer has the power to change G-d's plans? Why are our prayers not being answered? Is prayer akin to magical powers? • How do we increase in joy in Adar?

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: Chassidus Applied to Adar What opportunities does this month offer us? Why is the entire month one of joy? How can we command one to be joyous – can emotions be forced? What is true joy and is it our natural state? How can we be joyous when faced with difficulty? What is this month's sign and tribe? Chassidus Applied to Terumah What lessons do we learn from this portion? Why do we need a physical Holy Temple? How do you build your home into a Mishkan and Mikdash? What is the significance of all the materials used in the Temple building? Since they were in middle of a desert, where did they get the wood to build the Mishkan? What contributions did the Rebbetzin make to the Chassidic movement? What can I say to keep my husband from watching the Super Bowl? Did the Rebbe ever say not to fly in a single propeller plane? Are earthquakes Divine punishments? Follow-up Names Dreams How to make prayers more stimulating? How best to pray for someone with a terminal illness? Are our prayers always answered?

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to 22 Shevat – 35 years o What is some of the history of Chof Beis Shevat? o How did it impact the Rebbe? o What is the significance of this day and the number of the day – chof beis, 22? o What are the main lessons of this day? o Can you please share some interesting stories about the Rebbetzin? • When you are given something, take it • In Lubavitch all is good • Chassidus Applied to Mishpatim o Did the Rebbe farbreng on Shabbos Parsha Mishaptim 5748? o What is the connection between this Parsha and 22 Shevat? o What lessons do we learn from this portion? o Why is the chapter called Mishpatim? • Yud Shevat: Did the Frierdiker Rebbe clearly say or subtly hint that the Rebbe should succeed him? • Follow-up: o Names of the Rebbeim o The kohen at the Frierdiker Rebbe's histalkus • Beshalach o How can we say that creating shidduchim, like the parting of the sea, is “difficult” for G-d? o Why did the women take their musical instruments with them when they left Egypt? o Is composing music a form of prophecy? • Should we interpret dreams? • What shall I do for help when I hate therapy? • What can I do about tensions between myself and my spouse around religion? • How to empower my husband and not become a nag? MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to 15 Shevat o Did the Rebbe refer to the new year of trees as Chamisha Asar B'Shvat instead of Tu B'Shvat? o What are the main lessons of this day? o What do we learn from a tree? • Chassidus Applied to Yisro o How do the three major events of this book – the Exodus, Sinai and the Mishkan – reflect on our lives? o What lessons do we learn from this portion? o Why did Mattan Torah follow Yisro's arrival? o What are some of the innovative ideas that Yisro introduced? o Did the Rebbe ever attribute the idea of sending shluchim all over the world to Yisro's advice to Moshe to delegate? o What does it mean that we are mamlechet kohanim? o What were the Ten Commandments preceded by thunder, lightning, and smoke, which terrified the people? Would it not have been easier to understand the Commandments and internalize them if it wasn't presented in such a frightening way? o Are the “Ten Commandments" a mistranslation of Aseres HaDibros? o Are the Ten Commandments universal laws for all people? o Should we be using the Ten Commandments themselves as a tool for publicizing the Noahide Laws? o If the Noahide Laws are a derivation of the Ten Commandments, why wouldn't the Talmud mention this fact when discussing the source in the Torah for the Noahide Laws? o How are all 613 Mitzvos hinted to within the Ten Commandments? o Is the authenticity of the oral law proven by the fact that there are 620 letters in the Ten Commandments corresponding to 613 scriptural and 7 rabbinic commandments? o Is the authenticity of the oral law proven by the fact that there are 620 letters in the Ten o Commandments corresponding to 613 scriptural and 7 rabbinic commandments? Why is coveting a neighbor's property considered such a big sin? • If Sinai enabled us to transform the mundane into holiness, why are some objects holier than others? • What does it mean to connect to G-d? • Does Torah and Chassidus allow the use of Ketamine and psilocybin for treating trauma, depression and anxiety? MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus #Uvalde

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Yud ShevatWhat is the mandate and main lessons of this day? What is the purpose of Chassidus and what is the unique role of the seventh generation? What is the central theme of Basi L'Gani and its message for our times? What is the primary idea of Basi L'Gani chapter 13, and the Rebbe's key additions in 5723 and 5743? When a Rebbe says a maamar does he prepare for it or is the shechina speaking through him? Why did the Frierdiker Rebbe start enlarging the yud in the second name of his signature leading up to Yud Shevat? Can you share some of the details around the histalkus in 5710? Did the Frierdiker Rebbe wear two yarmulkes? Is it a Lubavitch minhag to wear a double-covering on the head? What did the Frierdiker Rebbe mean when he said “we have to polish the buttons”? What is Yud Shevat's universal message for the world? Should we encourage non-Jews to follow their religion? Why did you not explain the Sheva Mitzvos to the evangelicals you spoke to? What are the different customs regarding naming children after the Rebbeim?Is it appropriate to mix names of two Rebbeim? Were the Rebbeim ever called by one of their names and not both? Do I need to call my children with all their names, or can I use a shorter version? Which is preferable: to name a child after the Frierdiker Rebbe or after the Rebbe's father? Do we have an explanation for the Rebbe and Rebbetzin not having children? Chassidus Applied to BeshalachWhat lessons do we learn from this portion? What is its connection to Yud Shevat?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Rosh Chodesh ShevatWhat is the significance of this month? What is its sign and corresponding tribe, and what lessons does it offer us? What is the connection between this month and Yud Shevat, the Frierdiker Rebbe and the Rebbe? Why are we all “water carriers”? Chassidus Applied to BoWhy does this portion combine both exile and redemption? What was the spiritual meaning behind the ten plagues? What is the significance of using a lunar calendar instead of a solar calendar? Is there a connection between sprinkling the blood of the Korban Pesach on the doorpost and mezuzas? What is today's equivalent to the slaughter of sheep, the deity of ancient Egypt? What is the meaning behind the mitzvah of Pidyon Haben, redeeming the first born? Can we sue modern day Egypt for reparations for the 210 years they forcefully enslaved us? What are some similarities and differences between the exile and redemption from Egypt and the current exile and future redemption? Since the imminent redemption is compared to the Egyptian exodus, why are we not all blessed with abundant wealth? What is the connection between the theme of the second book of Torah and its name Shemos? How much power do we have to refine the atmosphere around us (taharas ha'avir)? What is the doctrine and purpose of reincarnation? What connection does it have to the tree of knowledge and tree of life? Follow-up:Chassidic psychology Expanding 770

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to 24 Teves – 210 yearsWhat is the main contribution of the Alter Rebbe? What is the significance of the Alter Rebbe's Hilula on this day? Why did the Alter Rebbe oppose Napoleon instead of trying to transform the Western World? Why were the challenges in America more difficult than the ones in Russia? What did the Alter Rebbe teach us about the power of song? What is a chiddush of the Alter Rebbe that can help us daven better so that our prayers are answered positively? What is the best way to study Tanya in English? Why do we sing the Alter Rebbe's song only on special occasions? How should one pray? One person's journey from living like a robot to becoming emotionally alive. Why not develop a Chassidus-based psychology? Chassidus Applied to VaeiraWhy was the name Havaya revealed to Moses? What is the difference between G-d's name E-l Shaddai and Havaya? Why are there four expressions of redemption? What lessons do we learn from the ten plagues? What is the history behind the Alter Rebbe's discourse called “der frumer Vaeira”? Why are the plans to expand 770 deemed controversial by some in the community?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to ShemosWhy is Shemos called the “book of redemption”? What profound lessons to we learn from Egyptian exile and exodus about dealing with suffering? How can pain make us stronger? What was the power of women that redeemed the Jews from Egypt? What can I say to a friend who is suffering from a terminal illness? What is the relationship and difference between Tanya and Shaar HaBitachon/Chovos Halevavos in terms of bitachon and the most effective way to deal with life's challenges? More Chassidus Applied to ShemosWhat does it mean that “the house lit up” when Moshe was born? Why was Moshe called by a name given to him by Pharaoh's daughter, and not the name (Tov, Tuvia) given to him by his parents? Why was Moses not a “man of words”? How does Chassidus explain the test Pharaoh gave Moshe with the plate of diamonds and the plate of hot coals? Is there significance that our forefathers and Moses were shepherds? Why would Moshe accuse G-d of doing “evil to this nation” when G-d is perfect and only does good? Is pain a punishment, or is it doing us a favor by letting us know there is a problem that needs correction? Are we allowed to make fun of the villains in the Torah, or since they are mentioned in the Torah are we supposed to revere them? Chassidus Applied to 20 TevesWhat lessons do we learn from the Rambam's yahrzeit on this day? What similarities are there between the Rambam and the Alter Rebbe?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to 10 TevesWhat is the significance of this day? Why is the siege of the wall around Jerusalem so pivotal? How is it possible that we go from the brightest days of Chanukah into one of the darkest days of the Tenth of Teves, the beginning stage of the Temple's destruction? How could something so apparently negative and sad occur in Teves, which contains the word tov, good? Chassidus Applied to VayechiWhy is the chapter about Jacob's passing called Vayechi (lived)? Why do we say that Jacob's best years of his life were the 17 years he spent in Mitzrayim? And if so, why was he so adamant that he be buried in the Holy Land? Why did Jacob keep a “grudge” against Shimon and Levi for the massacre of Shechem? In Jacob's blessings to his children he tells us that great kings will come from Judah, great judges from Dan, great seafarers from Zevulun. Can we deduce which tribe performers originate from? What does it mean that Yaakov Avinu lo meis (Jacob our father did not die)? How could Joseph defile and embalm his father, something prohibited by the Torah? New Year:Is it appropriate to wish “Happy New Year”? What is the story with Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev about this? Should we celebrate when an evil person dies? Can homeopathy be used as a remedy? How can we ensure that good deeds should be done with consideration for others? Follow-up: Irreverent questions Previous week's Torah chapters:Miketz: Can Joseph's interpretation of Pharaohs dreams also be a life lesson for us about the importance of saving money and resources in case we need them in the future? Vayeishev: What was Joseph punished for asking the chief cupbearer to intervene on his behalf to get him out of jail?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Zos ChanukahWhat is unique about this day? Is Zos Chanukah an opportune time for blessings for having children? Is there a connection between Zos Chanukah and Yom Kippur? Is Chanukah associated with Sukkos? Are the eight lights of Chanukah related to Hakhel being the eighth year? Why don't we light all the lights at once, instead of gradually growing from day to day? Why eight days? Does someone need to have an actual menorah to do the mitzvah? What difference does it make if we light from left to right or right to left? Does posting photos of your Menorah on social media count as publicizing the miracle? Why are we not allowed to benefit from the Chanukah candles? Could the Greeks have actually “killed” our souls? With Chanukah allowing Jews sovereignty over Israel for a couple of more centuries, is there any present focus on reestablishing sovereignty in our land, apart from the Moshiach vision? What will be different in Messianic times that we will then hold like Beis Shammai and light the menorah in descending order? When inviting people over for Chanukah, how do I balance personal tznius and shlichus? Lessons from Rosh Chodesh Teves and Hei TevesWhat is the lesson in “body enjoying body”? What was the significance of the victory of the books? Chassidus Applied to VayigashWhy didn't Joseph notify Jacob that he was still alive? Do we still own the Land of Goshen? Who was Osnat the wife of Joseph? What lessons do we learn from Joseph telling his brother that “G-d, not you, sent me here”? Follow-up: Irreverent questions

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Chanukah How does Chanukah personify eternity? What is Chanukah's message for us today? Which miracle is greater – winning the war against the Greeks or discovering the oil? Why is the number eight so significant to Chanukah? Would the miracle be less if the flames burned, say, for six days? Why is the Menorah on the left side? What is a short synopsis of the Alter Rebbes maamar Ki Ner Mitzah in Torah Ohr where he explains why we put the mezuzah on the right and the menorah on the left? Why do we light the Menorah facing outside and after sundown, unlike the Menorah in the Temple? Why don't we light a flame every day? Why can't we use bulbs for the Chanukah lights? Is Yud Tes Kislev connected with Chanukah? Is there a connection between Chanukah and the yeshiva students of Tomchei Temimim being called lamplighters? How do we apply the lessons of Chanukah in the winter to the Southern Hemisphere? Are women included in the mitzvah of Chanukah? What is the concept of the shamesh of the menorah according to chassidus? Why don't we have a shamesh for shabbos candles? Are we allowed to read the book of the maccabees? Why are we allowed to use a dreidel considering that its origins are from a spinning top, called a teetotum, used in a pagan gambling game? Is there a significance that the letters on a dreidel nun gimmel hey shin are gematria 358 which is the same gematria as Moshiach? Can spinning a dreidel for fun somehow make Moshiach come faster? How can eating a meal be an offering to G-d? How do I keep my eye on a destination which I don't know? Follow-up: Why do I ask irreverent questions? Vayeishev: Were the ten martyrs punished for Joseph's ten brothers selling him into slavery?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Yud Tes Kislev250th yahrzeit of the Maggid of Mezeritch Why is Yud Tes Kislev referred to as the Rosh Hashana of Chassidus? Why was there a problem with the Alter Rebbe teaching Chassidus? Since we begin the new Tanya cycle on Yud Tes Kislev, what is a short synopsis of some of Tanya's most important lessons? Is Tanya geared toward both men and women? Is the idea of two souls a revolutionary innovation of the Tanya? What does it add to the fundamental Torah idea of the yetzer tov and yetzer hara? Are the Alter Rebbe's teachings his own chiddushim, or were they compilations of what he learned from his teachers? Is Tanya considered like a “portrait” of the Alter Rebbe? Did the Alter Rebbe write and edit all the contents of the Tanya or were some parts added by his students who heard the teachings from him? Is there greater emphasis in Chassidus Chabad on bittul than on dveikus? What do we learn from the Alter Rebbe's name Schneur, two lights? Did Karl Marx borrow concepts from Tanya for his Communist Manifesto? Chassidus Applied to VayeishevWhy could Jacob not have calm and peace in his life? Why did King David have to come from relationships such as Yehuda and Tamar giving birth to Peretz? Follow-upWomen leading the way to Geulah World Cup lessons Were the Jews originally dark-skinned? What is the source of the Rebbe negating the story about Moshe's portrait?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Yud KislevWhat is the significance of this day? Why was the Mitteler Rebbe arrested after the Alter Rebbe's spreading of Chassidus was vindicated? How is the geulah of the Rebbeim relevant to all Jews, not just Chabad? Why are there no portraits of the Mitteler Rebbe? What was the Mitteler Rebbe's kapelye? Why are we told the story about the Mitteler Rebbe not hearing the cry of the child? Who was Reb Aharon of Strashelye and why would he challenge the succession of the Mitteler Rebbe? Is there a difference between the avodah of the Alter Rebbe and the Mitteler Rebbe? What is the goal of a farbrengen? Yud Dalet KislevWhy did the Rebbe say that this day bound me to you and you to me? And that we should see fruits from our work? In honor of Henya bas Brocha Devorah Leah for a complete and speedy refuah shleimah Chassidus Applied to VayishlachWhat is the central message of the battle and reconciliation between Jacob and Esau? Why don't we find Jews training in self-defense? Did Jacob have a literal wrestling match with Esau's angel? What is the significance of Yakov's hip being dislocated; why that specific part of the body, to the point that we are not allowed to eat that part of an animal? Why can Jacob and Esau not live together in peace? HousekeepingWhy are some people trying to provoke you and hijack your wonderful program with their irreverent questions? Will there be another Chassidus Applied art contest? What books are your Tanya Applied classes based on? Is it appropriate to watch the world cup? Are there any lessons we can learn while watching it?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Why is Kislev called the month of Geulah? What is the meaning of Geulah? Chassidus Applied to Tes Kislev:What is the main contribution of the Mitteler Rebbe? Why is the Mitteler Rebbe compared to Binah? Chassidus Applied to VayeitzeiWhat personal lessons do we learn from Jacob's journey from Beer Sheba to Charan? What is the significance of Yaakov's dream of the ladder and what practical advice does it give us in our daily lives? Was Yaakov's 14 years of work a punishment for the 14 years he spent in the yeshiva of Shem V'Eiver? Who were Bilha and Zilpa? Why did Rachel steal her father's idols? Follow-upHow can we say that Rivka was only three years old when she married Yitzchak? Are nose rings appropriate today? Why did Abraham not tell Sarah about the Akeidah? Are there any authentic surviving paintings of the patriarchs or Moses? Is it wise to learn both tracks of Rambam daily – three chapters as well as one chapter? Were the original Jews dark skinned? PrayerWhy do we pray? Is prayer about cultivating community? What is kavanah and the proper way to pray? Are our prayers answered? Is it possible that my prayers weren't answered because I didn't pray properly? When we pray are we tuning in to different spiritual frequencies? Is that the reason why we assume different positions when saying certain prayers?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to ToldosWhy was Jacob deceptive in receiving the birthright and blessings? What do Jacob and Esau represent in our lives? What can we learn from Isaac and Rebecca to ensure that G-d blesses us with children? What was Esau thinking when he sold his birthright for... lentil soup? Why do we assume that Hashem is only capable of doing good? Is G-d beyond good and evil? Chassidus Applied to Rosh Chodesh Kislev: What happened on this day and what lessons does it offer us? Was the Kinus HaShluchim the Rebbe's idea? Is a Thanksgiving family dinner considered a Hakhel gathering or do we need to do something in the realm of Torah and Mitzvos? Should I start learning Gemara Yerushalmi November 14 with the new cycle? Who created G-d? Follow-upDoes the acronym of the Rebbe Rashab have any deeper meaning? Why don't we wear nose rings? Was Abraham wrong for not telling Sarah that he was instructed to sacrifice Isaac? Why did G-d test Abraham with ten tests but zero tests for Sarah? What is the difference between Malkitzedek and Abraham? Why are most of the great stories about Abraham told only in the Midrash? Is G-d invisible? Why did you criticize someone for having a sense of entitlement for asking G-d to fulfill His promise to reward us for giving tzedakah? Will there be another essay contest in the future?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Chof CheshvanWhat is the connection of the Rebbe Rashab to Keser? What were the Rebbe Rashab's two main contributions? Why is the 5th Chabad Rebbe called the Rebbe Rashab? What was his most important teaching? What can I do differently to manifest and reveal the blessings of the Rebbe Rashab that the students in his yeshiva would be successful? Chassidus Applied to Chayei SarahWhy is the chapter called Chayei Sara when it discusses her death? What is true life? Are there any lessons that singles can learn from Eliezer's successful mission in finding Rivkah for Isaac? Why did G-d bless the patriarchs with mundane things like children and land, and not something more spiritual, such as the world to come? If the patriarchs had difficulty raising their children properly, what chance do we have with ours? What parenting lessons, if any, can we learn from the patriarchs and matriarchs? What does it mean that Abraham's children will be like the stars? Is it appropriate for frum women and girls to wear nose rings today as they did in Biblical times? What is the difference between the head covering for women in Judaism and the head covering in Islam? How should we respond to the latest bout of antisemitic vitriol? Follow-upIf Abraham could have saved Sodom with just 50 righteous people, why were the Jews not spared during the Holocaust with many more than 50 righteous? Did Lot speak loshon ha'ra when he said that most of the people in Sodom are wicked? Is Lee Zeldin's loss a heavenly sign that he is being punished and publicly embarrassed for marrying a non-Jew?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to VayeiraHow could Abraham turn away from G-d to greet guests? Can you love G-d if you don't love people? What can we do today to merit that Hashem personally reveal Himself to us? If Malkizedek was wrong for blessing Abraham before blessing G-d, why was Abraham not punished for turning away from G-d to greet guests? Why was Abaraham harsh with his guests to entice them to thank G-d? Why did Abraham beseech G-d to save the evil criminals from Sodom? Why was G-d upset at Sarah for laughing when she was informed that she would have a baby at age 90? Do the Arabs hate us because their ancestor Ishmael was kicked out of his home by Sarah and Abraham? Why Did Abraham not defy G-d at the Akeidah, based on the law that a son is not supposed to listen to his father telling him to murder? Follow-upIf we finished the work of elevating sparks, why are we allowed to eat meat? Should we be honoring the Jewish husband of the non-Jewish vice president with lighting the menorah? How to overcome a challenge much bigger than we can cope with, without falling into despair? Why not say Hallel every day? Fertility Is it appropriate to buy a lottery ticket?Why is it not a form of gambling? Does buying more than one ticket indicate a lack of faith?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Lech Lecha and Zayin CheshvanWhat is the meaning of the statement that Parshas Noach is a melancholy week, but the end of the week is joyous due to the birth of Abraham; but the true joyous week is Lech Lecha, when we live with Abraham all week long? What can Abraham teach us today about dealing with our confusing times? What do we learn from the 7th of Cheshvan when the last Jews returned home after the holidays? What did Malkizedek do wrong by blessing Avraham before blessing G-d? Is our connection to the Patriarchs physical or spiritual? Chassidus applied to BereishisDoes Bereishis barah Elokim mean that in the beginning concealment (from the name Elokim) was created? What is the connection between the ten sefiros and the ten maamaros? Are there maamarim that explain the rakiya? Why was it necessary and what practical lessons do we take from it? Chassidus applied to NoachWhat exactly happened during and after the flood for Hashem to change the rule and now allow the consumption of meat? Are we able to quell our fears about global warming by remembering G-d's covenant of the rainbow? If the flood eradicated evil from the world, how is it possible that Noach's offspring could sin and build the Tower of Babel? Why was it a sin to build the Tower of Babel? What are your thoughts on the Miami Boys Choir going viral on social media? Should we vote for a Jewish candidate for governor who is married to a non-Jew? Can someone with severe PTSD use a phone on Shabbos?

• Chassidus Applied to Post Tishrei o What is special about this time as we transition from the holiday season into the regular year? 03:00 o How do we draw energy into our daily routines from the renewal of Rosh Hashana, the sanctity of Yom Kippur and the joy of Sukkos? 05:00 o What practical things can we do to tap into this energy? 10:14 o What does it mean that after the Tishrei holidays we need to “unpack the bundles”? 13:33 o What are some of the second chances given to those who didn't maximize the full energy of, or participate completely in, the Tishrei holidays? 14:14 o What happens after Simchas Torah? Is the dancing itself the container for blessings, or is there something additional I must do? 18:34 o Why do we only dance with the Torah on Simchas Torah and not every time we take out the Torah to read from it? 24:41 • Chassidus Applied to Hakhel o What is the significance of Hakhel today? 29:57 o How can we observe the spirit of Hakhel without a Beis Hamikdash and a physical king? 36:16 o Can the newly crowned King Charles serve as king to read the Torah for us? 40:00 o Is a Hakhel year the most opportune time for Moshiach to come? 41:20 • Why do some think that Simchas Torah must include getting drunk, and what can we do about it? 43:11 • Follow-up o Grooming young people for leadership positions 51:00 o Why not travel to Uman for Rosh Hashana? 52:02 o Creating change in your life 54:57

Chassidus Applied to Yom Kippur Why is this time of year so special? What opportunities does it offer us? What is the building of Malchus during the Ten Days of Teshuva? Should we fear Yom Kippur? As non-practicing Jews, what is the best way for us to participate in Yom Kippur? What does the word holy mean? Why did the High Priest pronounce the holy Tetragrammaton on Yom Kippur, and we are not allowed to do so? Why do kohanim wear special garments in the Temple? How is the Seder Avodah relevant to us today? How do the five prayers correspond to the five parts of the soul? Why do we go to the mikveh Erev Yom Kippur? Why do we have fast days when we are not supposed to punish our bodies? Isn't fasting distracting and counterproductive to being reflective and introspective? How are we so sure that we will be completely forgiven? Do we have a nuclear option in our davening that is so strong it guarantees Hashem will forgive us on Yom Kippur? What is the connection between Yom HaKippurim and Purim? Why do we say Kol Nidrei after we already did hatoras nedarim Erev Rosh Hashana? If regular laymen have the power to form a court for hatoras nedarim, why can't they form a court and rule that Moshiach must come immediately? Why do we need Yom Kippur if we already fooled the Satan before Rosh Hashana? Why do we say Baruch Shem out loud on Yom Kippur? If we say some prayers in Aramaic so that the prosecuting angels, who don't understand Aramaic, can't interfere, why aren't all prayers in Aramaic?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to SelichosWhat is selichos? Why is the first selichos recited at night? Chassidus Applied to Rosh HashanaHas anyone made a nice acronym yet for the new year 5783, tof shin pei gimmel? What is the significance of eating certain foods at certain times? What benefit do we achieve by saying the Hebrew words of davening in the siddur if we don't know what they mean? Do some people have more power to bless others? Is it advantageous to go to the top of a mountain to daven because it's closer to the heavens? What are your thoughts about a chabadnik going to Uman? What can I do to stop my husband from trying something strange this Rosh Hashana to bring Moshiach? Why 60 days and not 40? Is there special creative energy available every year on the 25th of Elul, when the world was created? What can a couple struggling with infertility do differently in the month of Elul to have the “king in the field” grant them a child? Can you give an example of something you actually changed in your life? Chai Elul: What does it mean that Achiye Hashiloni taught the Baal Shem Tov? Apologizing for having negative feelings Can we test G-d with tzedakah and expect reward? Are we guaranteed to get what we want when we give tzedakah? Are we allowed to attend the Queen's funeral in order to be respectful to this country?

Chassidus Applied to 15 Elul – 125th anniversary of the founding of Yeshivas Tomchei TemimimWhat is the significance and contribution of Tomchei Temimim? What was the Rebbe Rashab's goal with creating the Yeshiva, and did he succeed? I was in Tomchei Temimim throughout my life, but I struggle with what I'm supposed to stand for. What are some of the advantages, and the spiritual and physical responsibilities, of a Tamim? Chai ElulWhat is the significance of the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe both being born on the 18th of Elul? Would it be fair to say Chai Elul gives life to the entire month? What is novel about the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe? What do they have in common and how do they differ? What is the difference between Chabad and other types of chassidus and is any one more aligned than another with the Baal Shem Tov's approach? Why are there no chiddushim on shas from the Baal Shem Tov? What can we learn from the Baal Shem Tov going into the forest to daven and meditate? Are Rebbe's born or are they made? What was the main teaching of the Baal Shem Tov? How did he revolutionize the practice of Judaism? What is something we can do to honor the Baal Shem Tov and his teachings? Can you share your three favorite life-changing lessons from the Tanya? Should we commemorate 9/11? How should we react to the Queen of England's passing? What can we learn from the story about the restaurant whose kosher certification was revoked? Can giving tzedakah open up new channels of wealth and blessings for us?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus applied to the Month of ElulWhat is special about this month and how can we tap into its energy? How can we apply the work of Elul to our personal mission in life? Why do we say L'Dovid Hashem Ori starting Rosh Chodesh Elul? Why is it customary to check tefillin and mezuzas during Elul? Are we allowed to start praying for the new year in Elul? Are there things we are not allowed to pray for? What are the thirteen attributes of Divine compassion?What are practical ways we can benefit from the revelation of the 13 attributes in Elul? How can we access them? Where can we meet the “king in the field” – do we need an actual field? What is the correlation between having a beard and the 13 attributes of compassion? Can women and those without a beard access these attributes? What's the difference between the 13 attributes that Hashem told Moshe and the 13 attributes revealed to the prophet Micha? How were you able to remain composed when someone berated you in public? How should we react when someone criticizes us? Should we limit our requests from G-d for the New Year? Is there anything we can do in Elul about inflation and rising gas prices? Why are there no maamorim on Parshas Shoftim in Likkutei Torah? Chassidus Applied to Ki TeitzeiWhat do we learn from this parsha on how to fight our battles and face our challenges? How do we perform the mitzvah of obliterating Amalek in our times? What ever happened to Amalek? Do we know today who Amalek is? When Moshiach comes will we physically kill every member of Amalek or is the commandment just to kill the philosophy that they represent? What is the spiritual meaning of the mitzvah of returning lost objects to their owner? When we meet our soulmate is that a way of Hashem returning us a “lost object”? Is it appropriate to circulate a photo of the Rebbe's brother? And what should be our attitude to him?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: What should we be doing during the month of Elul?What is special about this month? Why is G-d compared to the “king in the field”? What are good middle ground resolutions for the new year that neither overreach nor underestimate our abilities? If G-d is more approachable in Elul, when He is like “the king in the field,” does that mean that He is less approachable the rest of the year? How can we practically experience renewal in the new year? Chassidus Applied to ShoftimWhat exactly is justice that we are obligated to pursue? Why were people killed for worshiping idols? Why is such foolishness taken so seriously? Is the Torah supportive of a monarchy? Lessons from Eikev and Re'ehWhy does the Rebbe quote "Aini Hashem Elokecha..." as proof that G-d is protecting the Land of Israel, when Rashi explains that this may include good or bad decrees? Why does G-d need us to bless Him? Since the Torah takes such care not to say anything negative, why are there curses? Follow-up:Why is Ahavas Yisroel not elaborated upon in Shluchan Aruch? Why does the crime of the tribe of Benjamin not carry over to the next generations like it is with Amon and Moab?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: What life lessons do we learn from the transition of the month of Av to the month of Elul? Chassidus Applied to Re'eh and its connection to this time of the yearWhat is the meaning of curses in the Torah? If they are truly blessings why are they expressed in negative terms? Why were the people obligated to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem three times a year? And what can we do today to connect and draw down similar energies? What is a nisayon (test), and what is its purpose? How does it elevate the Divine sparks? And how does it increase one's perception (daas)? What does it mean that G-d never gives someone a problem they can't handle? Preparing for ElulDoes the “king in the field” manifest in physical ways? How would you explain repentance to someone who is not that familiar with the concept, and how can we practically implement it? Can you provide a fresh perspective on the high holidays? Rebuilding the Beis HamikdashWhy don't the sages use positive and empowering terms instead of saying that in every generation the Temple is not built, it is as if that generation destroyed it? Where can I find texts that explain how the human being mirrors and corresponds to the Temple and its parts? Lessons from Eikev and Va'etchananIs there a connection between Eikev and Yaakov? Is there a connection between women covering their eyes when they light Shabbas candles and covering our eyes when we say Shema? Follow-up:Which is the happiest day of the year? What is the name of the niggun you sang? Why does the crime of the tribe of Benjamin not carry over to the next generations?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to the days following Tisha B'AvHow do we rebuild after loss? Lessons from Chof AvWhat is the significance of this day? And what is the best way to honor it? What is appropriate conduct and proper mindset for a Chabad chossid going to Alma Ata? What is expected of us during the second half of Av?Why did they break the axe after finishing cutting the wood on the 15th of Av – isn't that wasteful baal tashchis? Why was the tribe of Benjamin allowed to rejoin the community on the 15th of Av after their heinous crime? Which day is the happiest day of the year? What can we do during the two last weeks in the month of Av to get a head start on our work in Elul? May I ask you to sing a niggun? Should we be worried that if we turn away from Torah and mitzvos and turn to idolatry that Hashem won't be able to take us back because we have "married" someone else? Why isn't there more discussion about Ahavas Yisroel in Shulchan Aruch? Lessons from VaetchananWhy was Moshe told to stop after 515 prayers? What is the significance of Hashem Echod? Does a mezuzah have anything in common with tefillin? How far must we go in thinking good so that it will be good? Is there a guide for when and how we are allowed and supposed to complain and ask for things we need? Follow-upWhy was King David not allowed to build the Temple Does the Beinoni's battle end? A heartfelt niggun...

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Tisha B'Av nidcheWhat is the significance of Tisha B'Av being pushed off a day due to Shabbos? How do we reconcile the negative and positive elements in sadness? If the energy of a day is recreated each year on that day, why do we fast on the next day? Why do we need the Holy Temple when we draw down the Divine through our prayers? Why is the Beis Hamikdash such a central component of the Geulah? Why do we assume that life with the Third Temple will be better than it was during the first two Temples? After all the work that great men and women did over the generations, how can our sages say that a generation that didn't rebuild the temple is considered as if it destroyed it? What is the meaning of the verse Tzion b'mishpat t'podeh v'shaveha b'tzedaka? How exactly does learning about the Beis Hamikdash cause it to be recreated? When will the attacks in Israel ever end? How to avoid giving up after many disappointments? Chassidus Applied to 15 Av and NachamuWhy is the 15th of Av such a great holiday? If the Talmud says to diminish in joy when Av enters, why do we celebrate on the 15th of Av? What is the significance of Shabbos Nachamu? What do we do when our rabbis and role models let us down?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to the Three Weeks and Nine DaysWhat life lessons do we learn from this sad period? What does this time teach us about navigating the cycles of our own lives? If we believe that everything Hashem does is for the good, why do we mourn during the Three Weeks and Nine Days? Wouldn't it make more sense to increase in joy during these days to break through and counteract the negative events? Why are we prohibited from swimming during the Nine Days? Is it correct that the Rebbe opposed commemorating Yom HaShoah during the month of Nissan and that he preferred that it would be during the 3 weeks or 9 days? What's so special about the Holy Temple that we study about it during this time? Is it appropriate to watch holocaust movies on Tisha B'Av or the 9 days? And is it okay to watch movies that illustrate important lessons? Chassidus Applied to Matos-MasseiHow do I find relevance in everything the Torah says? How do we explain all killing and punishment, wars and revenge, anger and judgment, in this and other week's Torah chapters? What does it mean and how are we to interpret that in our daily lives? What should I do about my husband refusing to wear tzitzis during the hot summer? How far must we go in thinking good so that it will be good? What can be done about TV addiction? follow-up Chassidus question: Can we create peace between the divine and animal souls or are they in perpetual battle?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to 17 Tammuz NidcheWhat does this day teach us? What can we learn from the nidche? If Judaism doesn't believe in collective punishment, why do we fast and do teshuva for the sins of our fathers? How are the Three Weeks relevant today? Chassidus Applied to PinchasWhy was Pinchas granted the covenant of peace for his act of zealousness? Why did G-d wait until the daughters of Tzelofchad complained about not having an inheritance before writing new inheritance laws into the Torah for them? How should we react to new astronomical discoveries?How large is the universe according to the Torah? Why did G-d create the multitude of galaxies? Doesn't this render the Earth as nothing but a puff of a speck in the universe without much importance? Do these findings prove that the universe is billions of years old? Can we go on a hunger strike until G-d sends us Moshiach? What can I do about my addiction to TV? What was the Rebbe's intention in printing Tanyas in every possible location? Follow-up Chassidus question: How does Chassidus explain the Three Weeks?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to 12-13 Tammuz – 95 years laterWhat does this day teach us? Can we learn anything from this liberation regarding the situation in Russia today? Chassidus Applied to BalakWhat do we learn from this chapter? Why was enticing the Jews into lascivious behavior the only way to hurt them? What was the messianic prophecy of Balaam and how is it relevant to us today? What was the sin of Baal Peor and how does it apply today? Was Pinchas spearing Cozbi through her stomach a primordial form of abortion? Chassidus Applied to ChukasDo the suprarational chukim come from a higher spiritual source? What right did we have to enter the land of Canaan and murder men women and children and steal their land? What is the “song of the well”? Can you please comment on the passing of Dr. Zelenko? Gimmel Tammuz follow-up: What should we be doing other than what we have already done for the past 30 years? What is a Lubavitcher? July 4th follow-up: Did Torah inspire the Founding Fathers? Why are secular studies not taught in Yeshiva? Follow-upHow is tutoring practical? Wouldn't it be appropriate for all Jews to study secular subjects so that they can all contribute to society? Homeopathy and abuse: Can abuse itself be transformed into healing?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Post-Gimmel TammuzHow should we describe this day? How do we connect to the Rebbe today? Is it correct to say that one of the central themes in the Rebbe's teachings was not resting on one's laurels? Is Techiyas Ha'Maysim only in the hands of G-d, or can scientists figure out a way to regenerate DNA and bring people back to life? Can you give a short synopsis and explain the significance of the V'atah Tetzaveh maamar, the last one the Rebbe edited and distributed? Chassidus Applied to ChukasWhat do we learn from this chapter? What is the significance of a chuka and why is it engraved in us? Why was Moshe not supposed to hit the rock when the first time he was told to do just that? What should be our reaction and attitude to the reversal of Roe v. Wade? Why are secular studies not taught in our Yeshivos as it is taught in other schools? Chassidus question: If the tzimtzum is also part of Hashems “essential abilities” why do we seem to only praise the enlivening G-dly life force in a rock and not it's body that resulted from the tzimtzum? Aren't both aspects pure G-dliness?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to 28 Sivan and 3 TammuzWhy was the Rebbe's coming to America a watershed event? What does Gimmel Tammuz mean to us today? 28 years have passed since Gimmel Tammuz. How much longer do we have to wait? What can I do about my feelings of disappointment in the Rebbe? Why can't we unite and directly address our post-Gimmel Tammuz challenges? If prayers are not answered, how can we continue to trust G-d? If the Rebbe's promises did not get fulfilled, how can we continue to trust that they will be fulfilled in the future? Is it possible that since we did not have the right mindset to bring Moshiach, we will not merit to see it, like the scouts who did not enter the Promised Land? Is Moshiach only a mindset but not an actual event? Chassidus applied to KorachDid Karl Marx borrow ideas from Korach who said if everyone is equal why are some people higher than others? Why was Korach wrong? Why are secular studies not taught in Yeshiva? What is a chinuch al taharas hakodesh and what is the source for it? Gender issues – follow-up

Submit your question now at https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ask-rabbi-jacobson, or email: info@chassidusapplied.com. WEBSITE: https://www.chassidusapplied.com/ EMAIL US: info@chassidusapplied.com SPONSOR A MYLIFE: CHASSIDUS APPLIED EPISODE, OR EXPLORE OTHER GIVING OPPORTUNITIES: https://www.meaningfullife.com/sponsorships THIS WEEK'S TOPICS: • Chassidus Applied to Shelach o Why did Moshe send scouts? 02:20 o What mistake did the scouts make and what can we learn from it? 03:30 o Why were scouts sent if G-d promised us he would give us the land? 07:58 o Are we supposed to rely on G-d or on our own resources? 11:00 o Who were the maapilim? Why were they punished for taking the initiative and trying to enter Israel? 15:39 • What are the Rebbe's directives for the summer? 19:49 • How important is it to be with friends when going on shlichus to another Yeshiva? 26:47 • How do we address and deal with transgender issues? 30:27 o Are there only two genders according to the Torah? 31:49 o Why do we get offended when a person identifies as gender neutral – after all, isn't G-d not defined by a particular gender? 35:10 o Does the Torah recognize and permit gender change surgery? 35:14 o Should we be taking a stance or fighting the latest trends embracing transgenderism? 35:36 o What are your thoughts on the What is a Woman documentary by Matt Walsh? 35:26 • Follow-up: Is it appropriate for schools to have their students solicit for a fundraising campaign? 55:45 • Chassidus question: What is the reshimo? How can we apply it to life? 59:07 MyLife: Chassidus Applied is a weekly video webcast candidly answering questions from the public about all life matters and challenges, covering the entire spectrum of the human experience. The objective of the program is to provide people with inspired guidance and direction, empowering them to deal with any issue they may face. MyLife demonstrates how Chassidus provides us with a comprehensive blueprint of the human psyche as a microcosm of the cosmos, and offers us all the guidance we need to live the healthiest possible life and build nurturing homes and families, bringing up the healthiest possible children, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. #MyLife #Chassidus #Uvalde

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Post ShavuosHow do we maintain inspiration after the initial spark dissipates? If G-d gave every Jew the Torah for free, why are yeshiva tuitions so expensive? What positive changes can I expect now that I have finally counted Sefira all 49 days with a brocha? What do we learn from the seven days of tashlumin? Chassidus Applied to BehaalotechaWhat do we learn from lighting the Menorah in a way that the “flames rise on their own”? Why were the Levites commanded to shave off all their hair? How about their beards? Why did the Jews complain about the manna – the perfect food? Who were Eldad and Medad? Why was Miriam punished for criticizing Moshe? Is there a connection between Miriam waiting seven days and the mikveh? Is it appropriate for schools to have their children solicit their families for a fundraising campaign? Why are people so opposed to the government requiring yeshivas to teach more secular studies? Chassidus question: If there is a connection between Shemitah and Shabbos, why is Shemitah only observed within the borders of Israel but Shabbos is observed everywhere?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: What can Sinai teach us about the horrific shooting of innocent children in Texas? What is missing in our education system that can help prevent wanton violence? Chassidus Applied to Bamidbar and ShavuosWhy do we read Parshas Bamidbar before Mattan Torah? Who owns the Torah? What is right way of receiving and learning Torah? What is the significance of the Torah being given on Mount Sinai? How do we reconcile the census of the Jewish people with the teaching that we are not supposed to count people? What exact parts of Torah were given at Sinai? How did the Jews oversleep the night before Mattan Torah? Why is the 50th level of impurity considered a point of no return when we have a concept in torah that anyone can do immediate teshuva? Why do we eat dairy on this holiday? Why don't we read from the Torah every day? What's the difference between a hidden blessing and a revealed blessing? And why would anyone want a hidden blessing? Why are we told in the Torah about the negative actions of our forbearers? What did the Rebbe initiate 55 years this week – two days before the 6-Day War?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to BechukoseiDoes Torah provide us with a better and healthier life? What is the function of chukim (supra-rational) mitzvos, and what is its connection with engraving (chakikah)? Is Halacha (Jewish law) rigid and inflexible? How do you avoid being a “mechanical” Jew, preforming mitzvos robotically? Why are there curses in the Torah? Is Hashem breaking His promise to us every day Moshiach doesn't come? Is tithing just like paying taxes? How can we assure that our prayers get answered? Is there a secret prayer that is like a master key to open up the heavenly doors? What is the significance of the Ono B'Koach prayer and why do we say it when we count the Omer? What is the meaning of the few paragraphs we say after counting the Omer? Why do we say “L'Omer” and not “B'Omer”? Lag B'OmerWhat is the significance of Lag B'Omer being hod within hod? Why isn't the burial place of Rashbi unknown to us like that of Moshe's? Why do we light bonfires on this day? How should we address the deplorable behavior of some in Meron on Lag B'Omer? Did the Rebbe explain why putting on Tefillin can stop wars and terrorist attacks? Follow-upAbortion Yom Ha'atzmaut Pesach Sheni What can I do about inappropriate images I have seen in the past?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to Pesach SheniWhat personal message does this day offer us? How can we say that “it's never too late” when there are mistakes that cannot be reversed or corrected? If it's truly never too late, why isn't there a Pesach Shlishi, Riviei, etc.? Did the Rebbe ever say that Pesach Sheni is an opportune time for Moshiach to come? Lessons from 13 Iyar: 70th yahrzeit of the Rebbe's brother, Reb Yisroel Aryeh Leib Chassidus Applied to Lag B'OmerWhat is its personal relevance to us? Is there a connection between this day and Moshiach? Why is there a custom to use a bow and arrow on this day? Are any of its rituals taken from non-Jewish sources? Students of Rabbi Akiva:Why do we cease mourning on Lag B'Omer and on the other hand, we don't make weddings after Lag B'Omer? What lessons do we learn today from the students of Rabbi Akiva dying during this time due to disrespecting each other? When people disrespect each other today does it have a negative impact? How do we respond to a prominent rabbi arguing that we are not allowed to demand “we want Moshiach now” and other things the Rebbe initiated or endorsed? What can we learn from the rising gas prices? Iyar: Where do months come from? Is it alright for me to have linens with the image of butterflies embroidered on them? Chassidus question: Is there a difference between the energy generated on a Biblical holiday and a Rabbinic one? Will we celebrate these holidays after Moshiach comes?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: What can we do about the horrific terrorist attacks in Israel? Chassidus Applied to EmorWhy does the Torah discriminate against handicapped Kohanim by not allowing them to bring an offering? How do we explain seemingly harsh attitudes in the Torah, called a Torah of love and kindness? What do we learn from the Torah about sensitivity to others, especially the less fortunate? Why is it forbidden to slaughter an animal and its offspring on the same day? What is the story with the son of Shlomit? Why was he so mistreated by the tribe of Dan not allowing him to camp with them? Why is blasphemy such a severe crime that warrants the death penalty? Is there ever a situation when we do not show unconditional love to a child? How about one who is behaving in a destructive and criminal way? OmerHow could they bring an Omer offering of barley on the second day of Pesach when barley is one of the grains forbidden on Pesach? Why don't they announce the Omer count after morning services each day? What is the difference between Netzach she'be'Chesed and Chesed she'be'Netzach? What went wrong with Rabbi Akiva's students who did not respect each other? Was it a failure on the part of Rabbi Akiva and his yeshiva? How did Rabbi Akiva react to their death? Why are we told about this tragedy and what do we learn from it in educating our own students With abortion in the news, what is our perspective on this topic?

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Chassidus Applied to the month of IyarWhat energy and message does this month contain? What are the different acronyms of Iyar? What is true health and true healing? Lessons from Parshas KedoshimWhat is holiness? How is it different than goodness? What does the Kedoshim add to all the many other verses where we are told to sanctify ourselves? How can a Torah observant Jew be obnoxious? Why is love the “entire Torah” when many mitzvos are between man and G-d? Is eating and sleeping l'shem shomayim a mitzva equal to mitzvos like tefillin, shabbos and kashrus, because it falls under kedoshim ti'hiyu? How can the Torah speak negatively about people when there is a prohibition of loshon hara? Will committing not to sacrifice our children to Moloch help us have children? What do we learn from pigul? How do I explain to my children why we can't attend a Yom Ha'atzmaut event? How do I honor my mother who just passed away? Why isn't music used more often in shuls and Jewish institutions? Chassidus question: Can we be as holy as G-d?