The Live Kabbalah Podcast ✨

✨ Sweetening the Judgments with Love ✨In the second chapter of Heichaltzu, the Alter Rebbe teaches that the real war against Midyan is an inner one—a struggle to unite discipline (Gevurah) with kindness (Chesed). When judgment stands alone, it creates harshness, separation, and even spiritual exile. But when infused with compassion, its true purpose is revealed: to guide, uplift, and reconnect us to Hashem.Like black fire written on white parchment, the details of Torah law are held within an infinite sea of Divine love. Our mission is to sweeten life's intensity with kindness, transforming conflict into harmony and revealing G‑d's oneness in the world.

The Zohar in Parshat Pinchas reveals that while the stars and constellations shape much of human destiny, they do not define it absolutely. Our astrological charts may set the framework of our lives, but like Avraham Avinu, who was lifted beyond the stars to receive the promise of a child, we too can transcend these cosmic boundaries. The key lies in true connection—living Torah deeply, not just learning it intellectually. When we align with the divine source above creation, we rise beyond the sway of the constellations and tap into a higher flow of blessing, where miracles become possible and destiny is rewritten from above the stars.Book an in-depth Soul Mapping Session with Rabbi Amichaihttps://www.livekabbalah.com/Mentoring-With-Rabbi-Amichai

In our recent learning from the Zohar on Parshat Pinchas (Zohar III:213, Resha Gimmel), we uncover a powerful mystical teaching about Yosef HaTzaddik, temptation, language, and the secret connection between Yosef and Pinchas.The Zohar opens with Rabbi Chiya patach—"Rabbi Chiya opened"—with the verse from Tehillim (Psalms 81:6), “Edut b'Yosef Samo”—“He established it as a testimony for Yosef when he went out over the land of Egypt.” This verse, the Zohar teaches, is not just historical commentary but a gateway into understanding Yosef's deep spiritual test and transformation.Yosef was granted the knowledge of all seventy languages, equal to Pharaoh, who was regarded as the most intellectually powerful man in Egypt. But the Zohar emphasizes something more: Yosef knew one language beyond them all—the Lashon HaKodesh, the holy tongue, Hebrew. This extra language was not merely linguistic but spiritual; it symbolized Yosef's connection to the Divine.The Zohar then shifts to the well-known story of Yosef and the wife of Potiphar. It explains that when she attempted to seduce him, Yosef pretended not to understand her words. Although he already knew Egyptian, he acted as if he was confused by her language—avoiding engagement with her advances day after day. Only when she physically seized his cloak did he become visibly confronted by the test. At that moment, the Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit, cried out within him, invoking the verse from Mishlei (Proverbs), “To guard you from the foreign woman, from the stranger who uses seductive words.”This moment of inner strength and restraint, says the Zohar, became Yosef's greatest testimony. The Adut—testimony—mentioned in the verse refers to his embodiment of the Sefirah of Yesod, the Divine attribute of foundation, which is deeply connected to sexual integrity and moral restraint.Because of Yosef's merit, he was granted an additional letter in his name: the letter "Hey", becoming Yehosef. In Kabbalah, the letter Hey symbolizes the Shechinah, the Divine Presence. It was now integrated into Yosef's very being, testifying that he had become a vessel for holiness.And then the Zohar draws a profound parallel: just as Yosef merited the Hey, Pinchas merited the letter Yud added to his name. Both letters—Hey and Yud—are facets of the Shechinah, representing different expressions of Divine energy. Yosef faced inner seduction and resisted. Pinchas faced societal collapse and acted. Both withstood immense spiritual pressure and aligned themselves with Divine will.Through this, the Zohar reveals a deeper mystery: Pinchas is rooted in the soul of Yosef. Both were alone in their moment of testing. Both chose righteousness. And both merited transformation—Pinchas ultimately becoming Eliyahu HaNavi, the eternal prophet.

In this opening class on the Alter Rebbe's foundational ma'amar Heichaltzu, we explore the inner war against Midian—the force of separation, judgment, and baseless hatred. Discover how this spiritual battle is at the heart of our long exile, and how Torah learning has the power to bring peace between the upper and lower worlds. With deep insights into the Divine Name, the purpose of creation, and the path to unity, this session sets the stage for personal and collective redemption.

A Zohar-based journey into the soul's hidden strength during exile. Discover how the Shechinah, Zion, Yosef, and Pinchas reveal your potential to break through darkness and awaken divine purpose.

In this powerful class based on the Zohar in Parshat Pinchas, we explore the deep mystical teachings on gilgulim—reincarnations—and the soul's mission across lifetimes.Why do some souls return in this generation? What does it mean to inherit a body in the resurrection? And how did Pinchas, through one courageous act, elevate not only his soul but also the souls of Nadav and Avihu, becoming Eliyahu HaNavi?This class reveals how each of us has the power to do profound tikkun (repair) even if we feel “less worthy” than the souls of past generations. Our sincere actions in this generation carry immense spiritual weight.

What does it mean to say Hineni — I am here — in our world today?In this powerful episode, I sat down with Levi Saada, founder of Hineni, a soulful movement and community rooted in presence, vulnerability, and authentic connection. From his early journey through healing, inner work, and plant medicine, to creating safe communal space in Yerushalayim, Levi shares the raw story of how Hineni was born — not as a concept, but as a lived experience.

This new series explores prayer not just as a ritual, but as a transformative relationship with G-d—our most powerful inner tool for healing, alignment, and co-creation.May this new series be a merit for the healing of Israel, for the redemption of the world, for the building of the Third Temple, and for the revelation of the Divine Presence in every corner of our lives. Join livekabbalah.com

A deep and timely conversation with Ani Lipitz on navigating the intensity of our times through somatic awareness, Kabbalistic insight, and spiritual tools for Geulah. We explore the power of the Yud in Yehoshua's name, nervous system healing, feminine and masculine energy integration, and how to stay present and connected in moments of crisis.

This week's Torah portion, Shelach, tells the dramatic story of the spies—meraglim—sent by Moshe to scout the Land of Israel. But the deeper question is: were they spies, or were they meant to be tourists?The mission, Rashi explains, was not necessary from G-d's perspective. G-d had already assured the people that the Land was good. But the people were afraid, uncertain. They wanted reassurance. So Moshe sends twelve leaders, one from each tribe, to "see" the land and report back—not to decide whether to go in, but to help envision what inheriting the land would look like.But something shifts. The Torah says "Vayelchu vayavo'u", they went and they returned—with a negative report. Why both verbs? Rashi explains: they already had a negative intention when they left. If so, why would Moshe send them?

This gentle, heart-centered meditation guides you into the stillness of the present moment—the place where your truest self and the Presence of Hashem are found. Through breath, awareness, and soft surrender, you are invited to release striving, thoughts, and identity, and rest in the quiet field of Divine being. There is nothing to do, nowhere to go—just the simplicity of being. Allow the breath to carry you home to your essence, to the now, and to the infinite embrace of G-d's presence within and around you.Join us on Live Kabbalah for live classes and meditations, as well as recorded classes and courses: www.livekabbalah.com

Who was the grandmother of King David? A royal Moabite who left everything to follow G-d and believe in herself. Ruth teaches us that we all begin in the field uncertain, unpolished, uninvited. But when we choose connection over comfort, service over self-serving, we become vessels for redemption. That is how Mashiach comes—not just on a cosmic scale, but in the quiet moments when we align with truth, when we listen deeply, when we allow wonder in, when we say “yes” from the depths of our being. Listen to this excellent class on one of the most remarkable women in history, the grandmother of King David.

On Shavuot, we don't just receive the Torah — we receive its deepest essence.The Book of Ruth is more than a beautiful story. It's a spiritual map of humility, courage, and the inner field where the soul seeks G-d. Ruth, the great-grandmother of King David, embodies the Sefirah of Malchut — receptivity, prayer, and royalty born of brokenness.We read Ruth to remember: Torah isn't just written in a scroll — it's whispered in the heart, revealed in loyalty, and lived through love.✨ Join us as we uncover the mystical secrets of Ruth, Malchut, and the true power of receiving.

In this soulful conversation, Rabbi Amichai Cohen speaks with Eli, a modern-day Kohen, about the deep inner meaning of the Kehunah—the ancient priestly lineage of Israel. Together, they explore what it means to serve as a spiritual healer, hold space with humility, and live in alignment with the divine flow of Shalom. From temple service to modern trauma work, from mystical texts to raw human experience, this episode is a journey into the heart of sacred service and what it means to be a vessel for healing in today's world.00:00 – Introduction: How Eli and Rabbi Amichai connected through the idea of priesthood03:15 – What is the Kehunah? Beyond the Temple rituals07:40 – The Kohen's role as a healer and peacekeeper12:05 – Why Kohanim didn't receive land—and how that builds trust16:45 – Ego, entitlement, and the dangers of spiritual power20:30 – Understanding Shalom as dynamic balance, not static peace26:10 – The inner heretic: healing begins with radical honesty31:20 – Tefillah as modern Avodah: the service of the heart38:45 – Birkat Kohanim and the symbolism of Samech and circular flow42:15 – Personal healing as the path to collective redemption48:00 – Final blessing: bringing Mashiach through service, not just prayer

Moshe's small Aleph and Adam's large Aleph represent two spiritual paths:One leads to humility, Divine connection, and inner wonder.The other leans into ego, self-focus, and disconnection from higher truth.In this powerful teaching, Rabbi Amichai Cohen explores the mystical meaning behind the small Aleph in Vayikra and the large Aleph in Adam, revealing a profound message for each of us—especially as we enter the month of Nisan, the time of miracles.

In this clip from our weekly Own Your Light session, Miriam explores the connection between speech, shame, and inner redemption as we journey from Purim to Pesach.We dive into the roots of Amalek, the spiritual meaning of Moshe's speech challenges, and how finding our voice is a key part of the redemption process—personally and collectively.This is part of the Live Kabbalah Community's weekly classes.Join us at www.livekabbalah.com#LiveKabbalah #HealingSpeech #OwnYourLight #PurimToPesach #InnerRedemption #JewishWisdom #SpiritualGrowth #ThroatChakra #VoiceHealing #Moshe #PesachPrep #Amalek #SafeSpaces

In this powerful and deeply healing session, Rabbi Amichai Cohen sits down with breakthrough coach and shadow integration expert Doron Yitzchak for a timely and soul-stirring conversation as we prepare for Pesach.

This week's Torah portion is Vayakhel, which is often read together with the following portion, Pekudei. These two portions share a unique connection, as they both recount the building of the Mishkan, the Tabernacle. Previously, in Parshiyot Terumah and Tetzaveh, Hashem commanded the construction of the Mishkan and its vessels. Now, in Vayakhel and Pekudei, we see the actual execution of those instructions.The Mishkan was built under the leadership of two great individuals: Betzalel ben Uri from the tribe of Yehuda and Oholiav ben Achisamach from the tribe of Dan. Rashi explains that Hashem specifically chose leaders from both the highest-ranking tribe (Yehuda) and the lowest-ranking tribe (Dan) to emphasize that the Mishkan belonged to everyone.

Purim & the Lunar Eclipse in Virgo: Surrendering ControlThis year, Purim aligns with a lunar eclipse in Virgo, a cosmic push to release control and trust the unknown. Virgo seeks order and clarity, while its opposite, Pisces, embraces mystery and faith.Like the Purim story, where hidden miracles unfolded beyond human planning, this eclipse asks us to balance effort with surrender. The concealed hand of Hashem is always at work, even in chaos.Let go of rigid expectations. Trust divine timing. In the space between clarity and mystery, true transformation happens.#Purim #LunarEclipse #Surrender #HiddenMiracles #DivinePlan #Kabbalah

Purim is the holiday of the unknown. It is about experiencing uncertainty, darkness, and even fear—yet knowing, deep inside, that something miraculous is forming. The Jewish people faced an existential threat, an annihilation decree looming over them. From their perspective, everything seemed lost. But in the background, Hashem was orchestrating a salvation beyond their comprehension. Only in hindsight did they realize how every detail was divinely arranged.Our lives often mirror this experience. We stand at junctures where the future is unclear, and fear grips us because we cannot predict the outcome. But Purim reminds us that even when we cannot see it, divine providence is at work.

Purim is one of the happiest and deepest holidays on the Jewish calendar. It is a time of joy so profound that it is said to be eternal. As the Megillah states, "These days of Purim will never cease among the Jewish people." But what is it about Purim that makes it so special?

Join us on the Live Kabbalah Podcast as we explore the power of shadow integration and what it truly means to experience a breakthrough. In this deep and insightful conversation with Doron Gibor, we uncover the hidden aspects of the self, the role of Kabbalistic wisdom, and how the Ana B'Koach prayer can elevate our consciousness.

As we step into the month of December, the energy of Sagittarius invites us to embrace a time of transformation and exploration. Sagittarius, known for its inquisitive nature, encourages us to remain open to learning and growth. This period is not just about accumulating knowledge for its sake but also about applying what we learn in meaningful ways. It's a time to share insights and wisdom with others, fostering a sense of community and connection. This energy is especially potent as we navigate through the various shifts happening in our lives and the world around us. December also marks a significant astrological shift with Pluto moving into Aquarius, signaling the beginning of a new era. This transition prompts a shift from a Capricorn mindset—focused on structure and tradition—to an Aquarian consciousness, which is more about embracing the unknown and seeing beyond the physical realm. It's a call to move away from fear-based thinking and toward a more holistic understanding of the world, where everything is interconnected. This shift challenges us to care for the world collectively, pushing us beyond our personal circles. The energy of Sagittarius aligns with the idea of the bow and arrow, symbolizing the stretch required to propel us forward. This metaphor illustrates how apparent setbacks or periods of reflection can actually serve as the launching pad for greater achievements. The month invites us to embrace vulnerability and flexibility, recognizing that true growth often comes from these moments of introspection and recalibration. It's about understanding that every event, even those that seem challenging, is part of a larger, beneficial process. As we navigate through this month, there's an emphasis on moving from intellectual understanding to heartfelt wisdom. This transition from head to heart encourages us to embrace inclusiveness and compassion, moving beyond rigid divisions of right and wrong. By tapping into the heart's wisdom, we can cultivate a more profound sense of peace and connection with others, recognizing the shared humanity that binds us all. This shift in perspective can open us up to new ways of communicating and relating to the world around us. Ultimately, the month of December, under the influence of Sagittarius, is about embracing change with an open heart and mind. It's a time to explore new possibilities, to learn and grow, and to share our discoveries with others. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute to a more compassionate and interconnected world. As we journey through this transformative time, may we find the courage to embrace the unknown and trust in the unfolding path ahead.

The universe is not an empty void but a vibrant symphony of creation, a masterpiece orchestrated by G-d. This grand composition is often called the Song of Creation or Perek Shira. This harmony surrounds us at every moment, inviting us to tune into our inherent connection to all existence.

The world is experiencing a powerful awakening of feminine energies, reflecting the expansion of global consciousness. Gevurah, one of the ten sefirot and a soul power within us, channels energy inward, fostering a deeper connection to our authentic selves. When our energy becomes scattered or overly tied to others' needs, we risk losing our sense of self in a cycle of people-pleasing. Healing begins with the essential practice of cultivating healthy boundaries.

How Sharing Our Differences Can Lead to Love, Connection, and Redemption. As technology evolves—from radio to social media—it opens new doors for sharing our beliefs, connecting us, though it can sometimes create division. In this class, we explore how our differences can become a powerful path to unity, love, and redemption. Guided by the spiritual wisdom of Kabbalah and Chassidut, we dive into the art of creating a true dwelling place for the Divine by living authentically and forming meaningful connections. Together, we journey beyond the ego's pull toward division and comparison, moving toward love and unity by embracing our deep interconnectedness with all of creation. This reflection reminds us that we are so much more than our roles and identities, inviting us to connect to our truest selves. This is part of our ‘Own Your Light' class series. Sign up to experience the full journey of wisdom, self-discovery, and spiritual growth!

Did you know? Every part of the universe, from plants to planets, sings a wondrous song to Hashem!

Dive into the spiritual significance of the Hebrew month of Cheshvan, often referred to as "bitter Cheshvan," and discover how this unique time can be a powerful period for building faith and hope. Explore the connection between the tribe of Menashe, the concept of the soul (Neshama), and the transformative power of prayer and introspection. Learn how to harness your inner strength during this month without holidays, as we prepare our vessels to receive future blessings. Join us in understanding the deeper meanings behind this transitional month and how it leads us to a greater spiritual journey.

Cultivating healthy boundaries and redirecting our energies back to ourselves is at the core of a loving relationship with ourselves and others. Without it, there is no authentic connection to ourselves; there is no me, you, or love in between. Many of us had a breach of our mental, emotional, and physical boundaries as children. As a result, our energies are enmeshed, or a brick wall is energetically around us that prevents us from developing trusting, loving, and safe relationships. There is so much to unpack and explore together 

As we begin the new year, we find inspiration in Jacob's journey: "And Jacob went upon his way." Was it his path—or the Divine path set before him? This class dives into the thrill of discovering Hashem's presence in our own journey forward. Join us for a powerful exploration and meditation on aligning with the higher path intended for us this year!

Rav Avraham Yitzchak Kook was a master of Torah and spiritual master of the heart. He was ahead of his time in understanding what our generation needs. In his work "Orot haTeshuva," Rav Kook breaks down what Teshuva—return—is really all about. In this class, we delve into the Teshuvan that our generation and world are really ready for.

This year is the year תשפ'ה, symbolizing the power that we have in our communication. פה also means “here” or presence. It is a year to be mindful and present to what is in our hearts and to communicate, share, sing, and express praise and gratitude from an authentic place of connection to ourselves and others ❤️

More than a regular "New Year" celebration, Rosh Hashana is a complete cosmic restart. Kabbalah explains that Rosh Hashana is celebrated on the sixth day of creation and not on the 25th day of Elul because the purpose of all of creation is that Adam—man and woman—should actualize their God-given potential.

We carry many old fear-based beliefs and perspectives that affect our relationship with G-d and the High Holidays. Beliefs and narratives that G-d is all about judgment, reward, and punishment prevent us from accessing the unconditional love and compassion available to us. Only by challenging and releasing the old narratives, beliefs, and perspectives can we make way for the new.

We are often the greatest self-critics. A Chassidic saying states, "More than the negativity of sin/mistake is the sadness and self-loathing that follows." In this class, we will explore the auspicious month of Elul, which helps us mend the perception of duality by recognizing that the Creator is found within all aspects of ourselves. In the Song of Songs, G-d is described as the "shepherd of the roses." What does the analogy of the rose have to do with the month of Elul and our lives? He is in the field of our lives and waiting for us to crown him in uncomfortable places. For this feeling of realization of innate Oneness within all parts of ourselves, we must learn to self-acceptance. What are we accepting when we self-accept ourselves, and how are we striving for higher things as we seek the Creator during this auspicious month? Watch the full class on Live kabbalah community: https://www.livekabbalah.com/Becoming-a-light-warrior

In this episode of the Live Kabbalah podcast, Rabbi Amichai is joined by special guest Jessie Shapiro, an Ontological Coach. Together, they explore the significance of inner reflection and discuss how grounding ourselves in the earth helps us connect more deeply with our emotions and bodies.

Elul is a time of reflection and introspection when we examine who we are and who we are becoming. The Alter Rebbe famously said that during the month of Elul, "the King is in the field." This is a reference to the potential of the month of Elul. During this month, the King—Hashem—is in the field and is more accessible than ever. In Shulchan, it says that even Torah scholars who learned all day closed their books and went into the field. The field is, of course, a metaphor for seeing G-d in all aspects of our lives. The Alter says that upon connecting to the King in the field, we can be assured of a good year when the king returns to his chamber and palace. This refers to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur when our fate and the world's fate are decided.

In this teaching we explore the profound Torah of the B'Nai Ysaschar, Rav Tzadok Ha'Cohen of Lublin and the Lubavitcher Rebbe for a deep understanding of the transaction of the months of Tammuz and Av to the auspicious month of Elul. Elul is a doorway and a portal in time that allows us to see that every situation we are placed in is exact. Once we find the door or gate, we can walk through to the other side and witness that everything is HIM.  There are many ideas here and it is worthwhile to lesson to the full class. The beginning is a bit technical yet we culminate with the simple yet profound lesson of working on our mind and heart as we find the doorway and opportunities that Hashem is giving us ✨ Join our community and live classes here: https://www.livekabbalah.com/Becoming-a-light-warrior

The 15th day of the month of Av stands out as one of the year's most potent days. According to the Talmud, Israel has seen no greater days than the 15th of Av and Yom Kippur. This date, marked by the full moon in Av, symbolizes the peak of descent following its ascent. From a Kabbalistic perspective, the moon embodies the Shechina—the feminine aspect of the Divine presence. Its ascent signifies the upliftment from exile and the realization of its Divine feminine potential of true wholeness.

In this enlightening episode of the Live Kabbalah podcast, Rabbi Amichai Cohen is joined by Doobie Sabbo, a master tour guide who has led thousands of groups through Israel, and pastors Rob and Allison Zimmerman, Christian friends of Israel who have dedicated their lives to global humanitarian efforts. Together, they explore the importance of Israel to the world, the role of the Christian community in supporting Israel, and the spiritual concepts of Tikun Olam and Bitachon. Despite the challenging times for Israel's tourism industry, this conversation brings hope, unity, and inspiration, as Rob and Allison share their experiences of supporting Israel during the current conflict. Tune in for a rich discussion that bridges faiths and underscores the power of prayer and solidarity.

In this captivating class, we explored the biography of the esoteric master of Kabbalah, Rabbi Yitzchak Luria Ashkenazi, the Arizal, the greatest Kabbalist of the past thousand years.  Recorded on the 5th of Av, 8/8/2024, the Hilula (day of passing) of the Arizal, we delved into his extraordinary biography, including his transformative years in Tzfat and the profound impact of his teachings, as captured in the "Eitz Chaim—The Tree of Life" by his devoted disciple, Rabbi Chaim Vital. Click here for an in-depth read on his life from our blog: https://www.livekabbalah.com/blog/The-Arizal

AnaRina Kreisman on the Rich History and Spiritual Essence of Jerusalem In this episode of Live Kabbalah's podcast, we heard from AnaRina Kreisman, the director of Align with Zion and a tour guide for the City of David Archaeological site. We delved into Jerusalem's 5,000-year history, from its ancient roots to Charles Warren's discovery of the City of David in 1867. We explored the significant 50-year alignment periods leading to its unification in 1967 and the relocation of the US embassy to Jerusalem in 2017. Our discussion covered the etymology of the name Jerusalem and its distinction from Zion. We also explored the spiritual heart of Jerusalem, the significance of aligning ourselves with this sacred city, and the meaning behind shaking off the dust. Ultimately, we reflected on the profound yearning for the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the Temple, contemplating what we have truly lost and what we aspire to regain. Connect with AnaRina https://www.alignwithzion.com and https://israelarchaeologicalproof.com

What is the difference between Destiny and Fate? Many of us think we know what these words mean. What is the actual definition and difference between the two? In this week's Torah portion- Pinchas, we learn about the division of the land of Israel to the tribes. This division was done by the casting of lots and via the Divine spirit. The casting of lots is called Go'ral in Hebrew or fate. Each tribe had its fateful inheritance. As it is in land there is in person. We all have our potential lots, which amounts to our fate. If that is fate, what is destiny? Join Rabbi Amichai and Live Kabbalah as we delve into this profound Torah concept as we aim to integrate this into our lives.

This powerful class discusses how to contend with our inner and outer darkness. The darkness we see in the world mirrors our inner darkness, yet we have the key to transmuting it into light, and it's called Rachamim- compassion. We know that the week's energy is encoded in the week's Torah portion. In the Torah portion of the week (July 19th), Balak, the king of Midyan, hires Ba'alam, a master of dark magic, to curse the children of Israel. However, not only do his curses fail, but they are also transformed into blessings. Often, the darkest events become catalysts for our most extraordinary light to emerge. This concept is reflected in the Parsha and the current month of Tammuz. Traditionally, Tammuz is considered a challenging month, yet it holds immense light waiting to be accessed.

One of the main pillars of life is the recognition that we can always start again. The great Chassidic masters said that even if someone commits the worst sins, they can and need to start again. What prevents us from starting again is the lack of belief in ourselves and in the Creator's infinite love and compassion.  While we are so harsh, shameful, and judgemental of ourselves, G-d looks at us with endless belief and love.  In this week's Parsha, we learn about the Red Heifer- Para Aduma, which can purify all impurities. The Torah calls this Mitzvah "the edict of the Torah." The entire Torah is found within this unexplainable Mitzvah.

The story of the spies, found in this week's Torah portion Shelach (Numbers 13-14), involves twelve leaders, one from each tribe of Israel, who were sent by Moses to scout the Promised Land of Canaan. Upon returning from their mission, ten of the spies reported that, while the land was indeed bountiful ("a land flowing with milk and honey"), its inhabitants were powerful, and their cities fortified, which led to their recommendation against attempting to conquer it. There are multiple explanations of the spies' actual intentions and mistakes. In today's class, I look forward to exploring this topic and its explanations and extracting valuable life lessons that can be applied to our daily lives. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/message

What is the secret of the Jewish spirit? Despite persecution throughout world history, the Jews survived the mightiest empires. The secret of the Menorah, which Kabbalah and Chassidut elaborate upon, captures the unity and essence of Divine connection or self-sacrifice, which is our essence.   The Menorah is a symbol of the Jewish people. Beyond its profound symbolism, it carries a message of hope and strength.   In our Parsha, B'Haalotcha, the Torah begins with the process of kindling the Menorah.  This week's Haftara (a portion from the prophets read every Shabbat after the Torah portion) is from Zachariah chapter 4.   The prophet Zachariah sees the image of the intact Menorah as a message of solace and comfort in the imminent return of the people to the land of Israel.  Zechariah, who prophesized during the Babylonian exile and before the Jews were able to return to Israel, describes a vision of the menorah that would stand in a rebuilt temple. The prophet is told that the menorah symbolizes the restoration of the kingdom of Judaea under the new king Zerubavel: "Not by might and not by power but by my [Divine] spirit."   The message of the Torah is eternal and gives us strength now, just as it has in the past. The secret of the Jewish people is intertwined with the message of light, unity, and the enduring spirit of Hashem, which guides and protects us. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/message

At the young age of 13, Adam contended with cancer in his right hip which was eventually amputated. In his journey as a paraplegic Olympian tennis player ranked 8th in the world, Adam had to quit his Olympic aspirations after sustaining another injury. This led him through a long trek in Africa, to South America, Australia, Israel, and ultimately to himself.Adam is a motivational speaker, coach, meditation teacher, and a role model for staying persistent amid adversity. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/message

What is the Kabbalistic essence of the month of Sivan? It is about instilling presence within contradictions.   The Torah says, regarding the month of Sivan, "They (the Israelites) encamped around the mountain." Our sages say that this was the first time true prevailing peace was achieved from an interpersonal point of view. After all the days of counting and inner accounting, the ultimate was achieved: mutual respect and love for one another. This was a precursor and an absolute must for the Torah to be given. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/message

What is holiness? The Ramban (Rabbi Moshe ben Nachman of Barcelona, Spain) says it means "removed from the mundane." In this week's Parsha Emor, we learn about the innate holiness found within the Kohen, which translates into a different level of responsibility they have towards the collective.  In truth, all of us are called Kohanim. As the Torah says, "I will make you a nation of Kohanim and holy assembly."  This means that holiness is found inside of us, as the verse says, "say (Emor) to the Kohanim In; the famous commentator of the Torah, Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki, Trois France), says that this means that the older Kohanim have an obligation of "illuminating" the younger ones. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/message

As we transition from the month of Nissan—Aries into Iyar Taurus, we transition into a different phase of consciousness, which is unique to Iyar and the month of May. The Arizal teaches about three phases of consciousness. These three archetypes are experienced on a superconscious level on the Seder night, and then we strive to internalize this experience. How do these phases reflect in our daily lives and what should we be more mindful for during the somewhat mindless material energy of Iyar/Taurus? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/livekabbalah/message