SoulWords

The spiritual "offering" (Korban) is the process of drawing near to G-d by harnessing and dedicating one's animalistic drive—the "animal soul"—to holiness, which elicits a light far higher than the godly soul can reach alone. Throughout history, the enemy Amalek uses two tactics—direct coldness toward spiritual passion and a deceptive "Canaanite" disguise that encourages Jews to secularize their mundane lives. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayikra in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

A man writes that he has “never seen good in his life.” The Rebbe sharply challenges this claim: a person blessed with a spouse and children walking in the path of Torah cannot call himself deprived. Ingratitude blinds one to visible blessings—and may itself block further blessing in health and livelihood. Gratitude and joy reopen the channel. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-16.pdf

In a powerful letter to an educator discouraged by what he perceived as a lack of success in influencing his students, the Rebbe explains why despair is more dangerous than being overly satisfied. Influence, especially on youth, is never wasted—even if the results only become visible years later. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-15.pdf

The first letter of the evening, to a yeshiva bachur, explains how acceptance of Hashem's yoke begins with disciplined adherence to the yeshiva's daily schedule, without exceptions—even for seemingly holy reasons. Consistent structure, he explains, gradually cultivates genuine inner submission and spiritual growth. In tonight's second letter, the Rebbe addresses the letter writer's discouragement about finding a match, insisting both the possibility and the path exist—and urging him not to delay pursuing a shidduch through proper intermediaries. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-13-14.pdf

When a person feels a strong urge to help the public, how can he know if the motive is truly pure? The Rebbe explains why overanalyzing intentions can actually block good action—and offers a practical test for recognizing when a thought comes from a healthy source. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-12.pdf

The Rebbe firmly redirects a writer who had become interested in mystical “segulos,” urging him to abandon such paths and return to a far more reliable source of wisdom. In the same letter, he also challenges the writer's assumption that he lacks the ability to make a meaningful difference in helping others. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-11.pdf

When people unexpectedly come into one's life, it may reflect a deeper spiritual purpose. Just as physical food contains a divine spark that nourishes the soul, encounters between people can be opportunities to help another Jew strengthen their connection to Yiddishkeit. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-10.pdf

The Torah repeats the details of the Mishkan to emphasize that the ultimate revelation of the Divine comes not from the spiritual plan alone, but from its realization in the physical world. Tefillah is the ladder that lifts every part of a person—even the most mundane aspects of life—into connection with the Infinite. The concealment at the end of Sefer Shemos prepares the way for the deeper revelation that begins Sefer Vayikra, teaching that darkness itself becomes the catalyst for greater light. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Pekudei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Torah's wording that work “shall be done” teaches that a Jew's relationship to livelihood must remain external—performed with the hands but never allowed to occupy the heart and mind. The 39 melachos prohibited on Shabbos correspond to the activities used to construct the Mishkan, revealing that all human labor has the potential to transform the world into a dwelling place for Hashem. The joy of Adar reflects the ultimate transformation of darkness into light, revealing the deepest Divine presence specifically through the challenges of exile. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayekhel in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The brothers reflect on the structure of Jewish mourning, the experience of saying Kaddish three times a day, and some of the strange, funny, and sometimes questionable moments that happen during Shiva. Along the way they explore the psychological wisdom built into the halachos of Aveilus, the strange transitional period of Aninus, and why communal prayer can become an unexpected tool for processing grief. They also share stories—from cryptozoology museums to Shiva pranks—and reflect on how humor and structure help people navigate difficult moments in life.

The challenges facing Jewish youth have not disappeared—they have simply changed their disguise. The Rebbe warns that modern spiritual tests can be even more dangerous precisely because they appear clothed in the language of holiness. Looking back at earlier generations, he explains why Torah study alone was not enough, why even mussar proved insufficient, and why the inner fire of Chassidus became the force that enabled young people to withstand the storm. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-09.pdf

A student writes in despair, convinced his spiritual struggles prove failure. The Rebbe rejects this conclusion entirely. Inner turmoil is not proof of weakness—it can be the very fuel for powerful spiritual awakening. The key, he explains, is to stop endless self-analysis and redirect energy into action: helping others grow in Torah and mitzvos, maintaining the discipline of yeshiva life, and becoming a living example for one's peers. Through this, the confusion itself becomes a catalyst for growth. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-08.pdf

In the first letter of this class, the Rebbe acknowledges news about the beginning of Tomchei Temimim activities and blesses their success in spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus. He objects to delaying sharing Chabad teachings with someone until after leaving the hospital, explaining that both healing and Torah study should not be postponed. In the second letter, the Rebbe responds to a student who feels he has not changed after a year of study. The Rebbe explains that a person cannot judge himself objectively and attributes such discouragement to the yetzer hara. He insists real change must have occurred and advises practical steps to deepen spiritual growth. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-06-07.pdf

The Rebbe responds to a teacher who feels less motivated to teach a weaker class than the previous year's students. The Rebbe explains that the opposite should be true: students with fewer abilities should inspire greater dedication, since a person's purpose is to elevate their unique portion of the world using the talents Hashem gave them. Educating such students fulfills this mission and brings special reward. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-days-30-letters-5.pdf

The Rebbe urges a father to dedicate real time and energy to influencing his family with warmth and closeness, stressing that this is a matter of holiness and the continuity of the Jewish people. Time devoted to one's family is not a loss, but a sanctification of time itself, bringing further blessing and holiness. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-4.pdf

The letter responds to someone who says he lacks time and focus for spiritual matters and imagines things would improve if circumstances were different. The reply challenges this, noting that if one can concentrate on intellectual matters, one can do so for the Divine soul as well. Each person is placed in a specific time and situation with the strengths needed to fulfill their mission; speculating about alternative scenarios only weakens present responsibility. Instead, one must choose action in the current reality, especially as one connected to Chassidus is empowered to do so.

The letter praises the recipient's efforts but says they are far below what is truly possible—especially in Eretz Yisrael today. It points out that even secular leftist movements succeed because they act with passion, discipline, unity, sacrifice for the collective, and obedience to leadership—qualities Chassidus demands for holy work—while Chassidim often fail to fully harness the blessing available to them due to complacency or division. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-2.pdf

The fiery half-shekel teaches that true atonement comes when the fixed discipline of obligation is fused with the passionate upward striving of the soul, revealing the equal, essential core within every Jew. Eliyahu's rebuke of “vacillating" exposes that spiritual indecision rooted in self-interest is more corrosive than open rebellion, yet even those who waver can return with redoubled strength. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Ki Sisa in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Rebbe urges that in communal matters—especially chinuch—one must not rely on personal opinion or local entanglements, but listen to objective guidance from above. Just as people seek expert counsel in private affairs, how much more so must they heed the Rebbe's direction in matters affecting the many. The Igros Kodesh are the published volumes of the Rebbe's correspondence with people from every background and stage of life—addressing subjects ranging from profound scholarly matters to everyday concerns of health, family, finances, and emotional struggle—through which we gain a rare glimpse into how the Rebbe approached life itself, and from which we learn how to look at our own lives through that lens. For the thirty days leading up to 11 Nissan, the Rebbe's birthday, join us each night for a live class with Rabbi Shais Taub exploring another letter from Igros Kodesh. In honor of the 2nd birthday of Yehuda Meir ben Bracha Pesha and the yarhzeit of Yehuda's great grandmother, also on 11 Adar, Chavole bas Zev Velvel PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-1-1.pdf

The deepest dimension of Torah, like oil, must not merely inform the mind but permeate and transform the entire person. The incense service represents the highest form of avodah—private devotion that exists solely between the soul and Hashem. The Jewish mission is not to escape the physical but to transform it into a vessel for revealed G-dliness. True joy flows from a broad consciousness that reframes physical needs as gifts and aligns them with a higher purpose. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Tetzaveh in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The half shekel donation for the sockets of the Mishkan represent the bitul that serves as the foundation for everything else we accomplish in our lives. The capacity for folly that leads one astray must be transformed into “holy craziness,” a willingness to go beyond habit and limitation in the service of Hashem. Ufaratza means bursting past the confines of schedule and calculation that hastens the ultimate breakthrough of Mashiach. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Terumah in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Join of a 22 Shvat farbrengen in honor of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, livestreamed from the SoulWords House with Rabbi Shais Taub and special guest Rabbi Manis Friedman.

The laws of watchmen describe how different animal drives can cause a person to lose touch with their G-dly soul, with the sheep's pull toward social conformity emerging as the most subtle and dangerous challenge. Because Hashem lends each person their abilities out of essential love, no spiritual failure or lack of standing ever removes the obligation to learn Chassidus. A free loan reveals a glimpse of the infinite within the finite, since lending to another is considered lending to Hashem Himself, whose repayment is enduring and without limit. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Mishpatim in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The purpose of Matan Torah is to bring holiness into everyday life, so that ordinary activities are not separate from serving Hashem. What is considered “hidden” or “revealed” Torah depends on the needs of the generation, and in our time the teachings of Chassidus must be openly learned. Our generation's main spiritual challenge is excess ego, and Chassidus is the remedy that breaks down that excess. Physical health and material success are not rewards for spirituality, but tools meant to give a person the strength to serve Hashem with joy. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Yisro in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

In this powerful lecture marking the shloshim (30-day memorial) of his mother, Rivkah bas Avraham obm, Rabbi Shais Taub weaves personal memory with Torah insight in a way that is both intimate and intellectually arresting. Drawing on his mother's life as a speech pathologist, he explores what it truly means that the human being is defined by speech—how words emerge from the deepest levels of the soul, and how language can shape identity and destiny. Along the way, he shares formative childhood stories, including how she taught him to write, the first (and last) time he ever lied to her, and the quiet moments of parenting that profoundly shaped his inner life. The lecture moves beyond biography into unexpected territory, tracing a line from Tanya and Onkelos' description of the human soul as a “speaking spirit” to modern linguistic theory. Rabbi Taub recounts how his mother found support for Noam Chomsky's ideas about language in the writings of the Alter Rebbe, including a clip from Rabbi Taub's own conversation with Chomsky. He also reflects on her lifelong love of Chabad niggunim—first learned as a teenager from Zalman Schechter—and her remarkable positivity through twelve years of serious illness. Timed to Tu B'Shvat, the lecture becomes a meditation on the power of gratitude and positivity.

The Haftarah of Parshas Beshalach is the Song of Devorah (a woman) because women suffered more deeply under Pharaoh's decree against children, and therefore their joy in the redemption was greater than that of the men. Unlike Pharaoh, who stood between the Jews and their past (Egypt), Amalek stood between the Jews and their future (Torah), teaching us that while we rely on God to handle physical threats, we must fight with every ounce of our own strength against apathy or anything that cools our excitement for holiness. The "New Year for Trees" reminds us that true growth is defined by our ability to produce "fruits"—students and influence—that actually reveal their potential in the world. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Beshalach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Jewish people displayed immense courage by keeping the Egyptian deity (a sheep) in their homes for four days, teaching us that redemption comes from performing Mitzvos with pride and without fear. The difference between the letters Hey (Matzah) and Ches (Chametz) illustrates how humility allows for teshuvah. The Frierdiker Rebbe's unique approach was characterized by "going big" in actuality and prioritizing material aid to others as a necessary vessel for spiritual influence, rather than starting with rebuke. Amidst the confusion at the Red Sea, Nachshon ben Aminadav taught us to ignore the debates of competing factions and move decisively toward the goal even if it requires self-sacrifice. Biographical stories about the Frierdiker Rebbe, including his grandfather's prediction at his bris, receiving a "Chassidic kiss" (a Maamar) from his father, and being designated as a successor at age 17. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bo in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The plagues of Blood and Frogs teach us the way out of personal and collective Mitzrayim. Once Hashem announced the redemption, it became an irreversible reality—like an arrow already fired—because a good divine promise is never withdrawn, and our task is to live with the certainty that geulah is already present, awaiting revelation. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vaeira in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Pharaoh's decree to drown the boys and the girls live is seen in our day as well. The Haggadah's identification of "Amalenu" as “the children” teaches that toil is inherent to parenting. In a time of spiritual emergency, the model of Yehoshua ben Gamla teaches that preserving Torah demands mesiras nefesh from everyone, setting aside honor and comfort to educate the next generation. The Alter Rebbe teaches that by exerting ourselves in Torah study, we exchange the suffering of exile for spiritual labor. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Shmos in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The blessings of Asher teach that Kabbalas Ol (subservience/action, represented by the "foot") is not merely a stepping stone to Intellect (oil), but is actually the foundation that supports and surpasses it, granting the unique power to "gather lost souls" that the holier tribes cannot reach. The Midrash stating that Asher's "beautiful daughters married High Priests" teaches that through the humble "foot-work" of Kabbalas Ol (Asher), a parent merits to raise children of such spiritual caliber that—like the "one child" Isaac—a single one of them provides more Nachas and spiritual impact than a multitude. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayechi in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Yehuda's willingness to risk everything for Binyamin reveals that guaranteeing a Jewish child's future requires total responsibility and self-sacrifice. Yaakov sending Yehuda ahead to establish a yeshiva in Egypt teaches that Torah infrastructure must precede all else. Yosef's well-intentioned compromise shows that lowering Torah standards to make Judaism more palatable leads to unintended consequences. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayigash in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Galus is compared to a dream in which contradictions coexist, allowing us to seize any mitzvah opportunity without delay. The name Ephraim reveals how struggle and exile generate a deeper fruitfulness, through full engagement with the physical world. The differences between the Menorah in the Bais HaMikdash and the Chanukah lights highlight the mission to illuminate the public domain, expand light daily, and serve as Hashem's ambassadors in the world's darkness. Chanukah's unique level of "mehadrin min hamehadrin" reflects a service of pure love, choosing unnecessary spiritual excellence and true selflessness simply because that is Hashem's will. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Mikeitz in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Yaakov's example teaches us how to elevate the sparks of the physical world. The story of Potifar's wife reveals the deeper reality behind spiritual challenges. The Chanukah story reminds us of the power of educating children with zero compromises right from the very beginning. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayeishev in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

During Yaakov's years with Lavan, he was able to refine materiality by maintaining the proper attitude toward the physical world. The “donkey of Moshiach” represents three stages in the refinement of the physical. Why Kislev is the month of miracles and the revelation of the innermost dimensions of Torah. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayishlach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Rabbi Shais Taub sits down with Rabbi Yossi Pels, Executive Director of Chayenu, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about the weekly Torah booklet that has revolutionized daily Torah study for tens of thousands of Jews around the world. In this inspiring episode, they delve into: The founding story of ChayenuIts global reach and explosive growthThe life-changing power of consistent daily Torah study — especially Chitas and RambamReal-life stories from across the world showing how Chayenu brings structure, inspiration, and connection to Jews everywhere Whether you're a longtime Chayenu learner or discovering it for the first time, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the mission and meaning behind this extraordinary initiative. For a limited time, Chayenu is offering its largest discount ever — 50% OFF — generously subsidized by Chaya Mushka bas Esther, in honor of her birthday on 13 Kislev. This special offer brings the regular $220 annual print + digital subscription down to just $110, with free U.S. and international shipping. The sale's final 48 hours fall on Yud-Tes and Chof Kislev (December 9-10), an especially auspicious time to begin, and to encourage others to begin, the new Tanya and Hayom Yom cycles. Take this opportunity to subscribe today, and share this offer with a friend: Chayenu Sale: 50% OFF 1-Year SubscriptionUse promo code: 13KISLEV at https://chayenu.org/subscribeLimited time offer: Dec. 3-10, 2025 Offer valid only for new annual Chayenu subscriptions (not Chayenu3) and cannot be combined with other discounts. Spread the word: Become a Chayenu Ambassador! Join the WhatsApp group at https://chayenu.org/ambassadors and help inspire more Jews to learn Chitas, Rambam, and Daily Torah Studies with Chayenu. Inside the group you'll get inspiration, short videos, images, prize giveaways, and more – all ready to share to help you spread the word. You can also access ready-to-use promotional images for social media and email at https://chayenu.org/share. You can print an 8.5″×11″ poster in Color or Black & White and share at your Yud-Tes Kislev farbrengen. Post it in your shul, school, office, or simply hand one to a friend.

Building a Jewish home requires leaving spiritual comfort zones. True success in Galus is achieved not through assimilation but through complete trust and reliance on G-d. The inner dimension of Torah makes new levels of joy accessible to all. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayeitzei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Rabbi Shais Taub sits down with Dr. Stephen Shaya, a Chaldean physician, visionary, and philanthropist from Detroit. Dr. Shaya shares his remarkable story, from his family's ancient roots in Iraq's Mesopotamian heritage, to his global work in healthcare innovation and humanitarian outreach, and his first visit to the Rebbe's Ohel that deeply moved him. Together, Rabbi Taub and Dr. Shaya explore the intersection of faith, science, and purpose - discussing how the Rebbe's teachings inspire people of all backgrounds to bring light, compassion, and healing into the world.

The special qualities of Yitzchak are inherited by every Jew, granting them the ability to be unintimidated by the world and to successfully integrate transcendent spirituality into time and space. This explains the deeper significance of Yitzchak going to Gan Eden before his wedding, demonstrating the necessity of spiritual integration through self-nullification. The custom for a groom to receive Rabbinic ordination before marriage reveals how the eternal foundation of a home must be based on absolute Torah law. The necessity of Yaakov taking the blessings through cunning. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Toldos in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1. Happy Birthday for:Feiga Esther bas RivkahChaya Mushka bas Feiga Esther In honor of the yahrzeit of:Chaya Feiga bas Yitzchak Yaakov HaLevidedicated by her sister

12 Pesukim for Parents is a new series in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Twelve Pesukim. In this first class, we explore the opening verse—Torah Tziva Lanu Moshe—and the Rebbe's vision behind teaching these verses to children. This class helps parents understand what Torah Tziva truly means: conveying to our children the preciousness of Torah. Each video in this series will uncover another pasuk, offering insight into how parents can bring the Rebbe's vision to life in their homes.

Rabbi Shais Taub is joined by Yitzchok Aharon Pinkesz, author of Kosher Astrology: A Jewish Guide to Celestial Wisdom to explore one of the most misunderstood topics in Jewish thought. Together, they discuss what astrology really means through the lens of Torah and how to distinguish kosher astrology from forbidden practices, and what role the stars and constellations play in shaping our spiritual path. You'll even hear Rabbi Taub's own astrological chart.

Avraham and Sarah as body and soul; "listen to Sarah" means refining the body, the ultimate purpose. Eliezer's miraculous journey teaches us about the nature of redemption from exile. The double telling of Eliezer's journey highlights marriage's sanctity when founded on Torah and mitzvos. What Avraham used his circumcision for an oath. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The childhood story of the Rebbe Rashab crying over his yearning for G-d's revelation provides a powerful lesson for every Jew. The lives of Avraham and Yitzchak serve as contrasting and essential paradigms for achieving our purpose in life.This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.