SoulWords

True oneness is achieved not by avoiding multiplicity, but by harmonizing seemingly opposite forces under a single, divine reality. Torah study possesses an intrinsic, boundless value that transcends practical application, serving as the ultimate unifier between a Jew and the Creator. Shavuos is a propitious time to establish unwavering resolutions in daily study cycles, specifically through the tracking of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya. Giving the Torah in a desolate wilderness teaches that one must dive directly into intensive study immediately, rather than waiting for material or personal affairs to be perfectly organized. Pure obedience and physical action, such as marching on Tahalucha to share knowledge with others, allow a person to transcend the inherent limitations of intellect and emotion. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Shavuos in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2. EMERGENCY RELIEF FOR THE REITER FAMILY: Our community is heartbroken by the tragic passing of Devora Leah Reiter ע"ה, a 47-year-old mother of nine children who spent her life helping others. Please open your heart to this urgent cause. 100% goes directly to the family: https://charidy.com/reiterfamilyfund/..

Live from the SoulWords House on Rosh Chodesh Sivan, Rabbi Shais Taub, Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin, and Bruce Backman come together for a raw and wide-ranging conversation honoring the yahrzeit of Franz Kafka. Why does Kafka continue to speak so powerfully to the Jewish soul?What is the spiritual root of alienation?Why do sensitive souls often feel like strangers in the world?And what happens when Kafka's writings are read through the lens of Torah and Chassidus? לעילוי נשמת אנשיל בן חנוך EMERGENCY RELIEF FOR THE REITER FAMILY: Our community is heartbroken by the tragic passing of Devora Leah Reiter ע"ה, a 47-year-old mother of nine children who spent her life helping others. Please open your heart to this urgent cause. 100% goes directly to the family: https://charidy.com/reiterfamilyfund/..

Counting reveals the paradox that in holiness, quantity itself leads to quality. Even in a spiritual wilderness, we are meant to live a fully holy life—especially in the home and in the earliest stages of a child's education. True Jewish unity means uniting around Torah and mitzvos. Ahavas Yisrael is described on three levels—by the Baal Shem Tov, the Maggid, and the Alter Rebbe—each revealing a deeper way to love another Jew. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bechukosai in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.

Parshas Bechukosai contains a rebuke of seemingly harsh curses which are actually the loftiest Divine blessings in a hidden form; similarly, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, whose yahrzeit is Lag B'Omer, possesses the unique power through the inner dimension of Torah to decode this reality and reveal that hidden good as tangible, physical blessings in this world.

Shmita teaches us that Torah is not about escaping the physical world, but sanctifying it so completely that even our engagement with nature becomes an act of transcendence. Har Sinai shows us that true greatness requires the paradox of standing tall with absolute confidence while remaining completely humble before Hashem. The deepest form of avodah is not serving Hashem for personal growth, reward, or even spiritual refinement—but simply because His will is your will. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Behar in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The month of Iyar is uniquely defined by the mitzvah of counting the Omer, which creates a state of total alignment where every day becomes equally holy. Spiritual growth moves through three phases—initial rescue from above (Nissan), active refinement of the animal soul's passions (Iyar), and ultimate integration with the Divine (Sivan). The halachic nature of counting Sefira reveals that even if our current efforts feel limited, they possess the unique power to build the reality of the future redemption. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Emor in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Kedusha means living with a distinct Jewish identity in every aspect of life, transforming the mundane into a dwelling place for Hashem. True readiness for Moshiach comes from sanctifying even the permissible, reaching a deeper bittul that reveals the essence of the soul and of Hashem. Torah endures only when it is shared—helping others spiritually both sustains your own growth and fulfills your unique mission. In the “upside-down world,” those we uplift may be our greatest merit, revealing that every act of influence carries eternal reward. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Kedoshim in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Torah's command to “make a safeguard for My safeguards” teaches that protective boundaries are not additions to Torah but part of its design—provided they are kept with clarity, distinguishing between obligation and voluntary devotion in a world that requires such protection. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Acharei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The order of the four questions highlights the importance of minhagim. The story of R' Elazar ben Azarya leads us to appreciate how past reincarnations can help us practically. The proximity of the chacham and rasha shows us the importance of bringing every Jew close. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Pesach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

True faith is a mode of perception that reveals Hashem as completely beyond nature, allowing even "negative" occurrences to be seen as purposeful, miraculous messages of hidden good. Hashem deliberately leaves aspects of creation and our personal lives incomplete to teach us that true resolution—both personal and national—comes through bitachon rather than human effort. Anyone with any measure of influence is called upon to ensure that every Jew they can reach is provided with round, handmade Shmura Matzah to bolster their faith and health for the entire year. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Metzora in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Nissan represents a mode of serving Hashem that draws down the infinite beyond nature, where joy and divine choice override the limits of cause and effect. The Jewish soul is essentially bound to Hashem Himself, and expresses that bond by transforming the world through mitzvos in a way that brings lasting redemption. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Tazria in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

In this famous letter to Israeli President Yitzchak Ben-Tzvi, the Rebbe explains that wealth and influence are divinely entrusted responsibilities, obligating one to actively strengthen Torah and Jewish identity. Beyond this, the letter offers a rare personal glimpse, as the Rebbe shares his lifelong vision of redemption and explains why he avoids the title “president,” reflecting his deep, authentic sensitivity to the pain of the Jewish people in exile. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-30.pdf

The signs of a kosher animal serve as spiritual benchmarks to ensure our physical involvements remain refined. The juxtaposition of the Mishkan's inauguration with prohibitions against eating insects teaches that even the most spiritually exalted individual requires the discipline of divine decrees to remain grounded. King David's "leaping and dancing" before the Ark in this week's Haftarah represents a state of joy that transcends intellect, serving as a model for our own connection to Hashem as we approach the era of Moshiach. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Shemini in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Rebbe acknowledges the writer's improved health but challenges his confusion about priorities. Despite clear guidance, he is misreading his situation and considering reducing his involvement in Chabad. The Rebbe insists his true purpose is to focus on spiritual work in his current place, not pursue distracting alternatives for livelihood. Parnassah will follow with less struggle, while avoiding this path only adds unnecessary complications and concealment. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-29.pdf

In the first letter, the Rebbe responds to someone overwhelmed by a new position, claiming he has no time for learning, serving Hashem, or helping others. The Rebbe firmly rejects this, reminding him that a Jew's purpose is to serve his Creator. In the second letter, the Rebbe discourages the letter writer's practice of fasting, explaining that Chassidus does not promote afflicting the body. True avodah is refining the animal soul—through restraint in behavior, speech, and interpersonal conduct—without harming one's health, thereby preserving strength for Torah and mitzvos. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-27-28.pdf

Addressing the letter writer's concerns about balancing outreach with his own son's education, the Rebbe emphasizes that fulfilling the mitzvah of influencing others will not harm his child's chinuch—on the contrary, it will enhance it through the principle of mitzvah goreres mitzvah. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-26.pdf

Pesach is supposed to be a time of freedom—but for many parents raising sensitive or easily overwhelmed children, it can feel like anything but. In this webinar, Rabbi Shais Taub and Dr. Ilyssa Bass address the real challenges of preparing for Pesach with a “complex child”—kids who feel things more intensely, struggle with transitions, and can become overwhelmed by the demands of Yom Tov. No unrealistic expectations. No “perfect child” fantasy. Just practical clarity for a calmer, more manageable Pesach. Rabbi Shais Taub is the creator of Soul Parenting and has guided thousands of parents with a Torah-based approach to raising children. Dr. Ilyssa Bass is a psychologist and leading expert helping Jewish families parent children with complex needs. To register for our upcoming course: https://www.drilyssabass.com/joy

The Rebbe responds regarding a Chabad-affiliated agricultural school, emphasizing that its standards and spirit must fully align with Chabad values without compromise. The institution should not lower its standards for students who do not adhere to them. However, guidance should be given pleasantly—educating and inspiring rather than rejecting. The focus should be on promoting the positive through Chassidic farbrengens, stories, and niggunim, while maintaining appropriate safeguards. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-25.pdf

One must recognize that involvement in the Rebbe's work is a personal merit, not a favor being done. As long as one feels otherwise, no persuasion will help. Honest reflection and humility will lead to clarity, cooperation, and a more peaceful, productive path. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-24.pdf

In response to a letter proposing that identifying certain nations as lost tribes could hasten Moshiach, the Rebbe emphasizes that our direction must come from Torah and its clear guidance. Rather than pursuing speculative approaches, our focus should be on what Chazal teach—that redemption depends on teshuvah and good deeds. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-23.pdf

Jewish security is not determined by political reality but by spiritual alignment. A Jew's passion for Yiddishkeit must remain constant—both in inspiration and in struggle. Our finite effort awakens an infinite response from above that creates real success. Redemption follows a process: preparation and purification come before transformation.This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Tzav in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Rebbe writes to Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Small, acknowledging his longstanding connection to Chabad and asking him to support relief efforts for Sephardic Jews in crisis. Beyond the immediate need, the Rebbe emphasizes a broader principle: in matters of ahavas Yisrael, there is no concern for competition—on the contrary, one should welcome and encourage others to join and even expand the work. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-22.pdf

The first letter addresses a man overwhelmed by overthinking. The Rebbe urges him to stop analyzing his inner state and instead live simply: care for the body, act with sincerity, and begin without overplanning. The second letter teaches that how we look at others shapes them—seeing with a generous eye draws out their best and brings true nachas. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-20-and-21.pdf

A young man asks if he should follow his own preference as to where to study and is gently but firmly redirected: a yeshiva bachur is not guided by personal will, but by the guidance of his teachers. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-19.pdf

In this letter, the Rebbe thanks the noted Hebrew author Eliezer Steinman for writing about Chabad Chassidus—but then adds a deeper point. To write about something truthfully, it's not enough to understand it intellectually. You have to live it. Only when an idea becomes part of your own experience can you express it in a way that resonates most effectively with others. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-18.pdf

The Rebbe responds to a report of someone feeling spiritually discouraged. He explains that a feeling of brokenness can sometimes be constructive—like a seed that must first decay in the ground before it can grow—but only if it leads to renewed effort and increased action in Yiddishkeit. If, however, it weakens a person's resolve and diminishes their activity, it is not healthy bitterness but harmful sadness. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-17.pdf

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.