Zohar Ammud Yomi

We explore a mystical Hasidic teaching from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim on Parashat Emor—how Divine speech becomes healing or harmful depending on how we "combine the letters." Join me for a reflection on sacred interpretation, spiritual responsibility, and the redemptive power of words. I close the episode with an original spoken word poem inspired by this teaching.

In this episode, we explore a mystical passage from the Zohar (Pinchas 102:679) that unpacks the ancient Yom Kippur ritual of the two goats—one offered to YHVH, the other sent to Azazel. Through this lens, we reflect on the dual nature of spiritual work: reaching toward unity and compassion while also facing and integrating our inner shadows. Paired with teachings from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim, Meor Einayim, and Maor VaShemesh on the command to "be holy," we uncover a rich tapestry of insights about communal holiness, spiritual humility, and the ongoing journey of becoming. This episode is a deep dive into the paradox of wholeness: that holiness is found not by escaping the world, but by embracing it fully—together.

A soul-stirring teaching from Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl (the Me'or Einayim) on Metzora — how our words create worlds, how harmful speech diminishes Divine joy, and how Torah can heal and restore the sacred power of speech. A deep reminder: Every word we speak is sacred ground.

In this week's episode, we dive into a powerful teaching from the Me'or Einayim on Parashat Pinchas (with a nod to Shemini)—exploring the mystical link between Elijah, fiery longing, and the soul's role in the unfolding of redemption. Elijah, who is also Pinchas, carries the yearning of Nadav and Avihu—souls consumed in ecstasy. This gender-inclusive translation reveals how our own yearning, when united with mindful speech and sacred intention, becomes part of healing the world and restoring wholeness. Listen now to awaken the spark of Messiah within.

In this episode, we journey through the mystical depths of three Hasidic masters—Maor VaShemesh, Esh Kodesh, and Mei HaShiloach—each offering profound insight into how we navigate moments of spiritual and existential pressure. The Maor VaShemesh teaches us that the splitting of the sea was not just a miracle of nature, but a revelation of inner harmony—when kindness, strength, and integration merge, barriers dissolve, and hidden light is released. The sea within us parts when we align ourselves with the deepest compassion and spiritual clarity. The Esh Kodesh, writing from within the Warsaw Ghetto, dares to suggest something even more radical: that God, in infinite love, values the dignity of humanity so deeply that the Divine forgoes Divine honor for the sake of human honor. Even in a world on fire, this teaching insists that our worth is non-negotiable. The Mei HaShiloach reminds us that when God's will is hidden and the path unclear, we are called not to over-intellectualize, but to return to simple awe. In moments of doubt, we anchor ourselves in humility, choosing devotion over certainty. Together, these teachings offer a map for living with courage, humility, and fierce love—especially when we find ourselves between the narrow place and the sea.

This episode explores a luminous teaching from the Me'or Einayim on Parashat Tzav—revealing how Torah can elevate us when we tap into the Hidden Light the primordial radiance beyond words and time. We reflect on how true learning connects us to the Divine flow, where past, present, and future become one. The episode closes with a poem about burning our inner chametz—clearing space for renewal and revelation.

Episode Title: The Whisper That Calls Us Back In this episode, we explore a teaching from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim that reminds us a divine call to return echoes within us every day. Drawing on the image of Moses as the inner voice of spiritual awareness, we reflect on how to recognize subtle stirrings of the soul—even amid distraction—and how cultivating presence allows us to hear and respond to the sacred whisper inviting us home.

"They made the tzitz, the sacred crown…" (Exodus 39:30). How can lifting our eyes to the heavens help us uncover hidden wisdom — even in a fragmented and broken world? In this episode, we explore how the tzitz (sacred headplate) symbolizes the ability to see beyond surface reality and perceive the hidden divine unity beneath. Through the lens of the Ohr HaMeir's teaching, we reflect on how spiritual perception can transform even the most difficult and painful experiences into opportunities for deeper connection and healing.

In this episode we present two commentaries on the Torah portion Vayakhel-- one by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Ephraim of Sudilkov, the Degel Machneh Efraim, and one by Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the Esh Kodesh.

In this special Purim episode of The Neshamah Project, we explore two powerful teachings from the Esh Kodesh, Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, delivered in the Warsaw Ghetto in 1940 and 1942. The Piaseczno Rebbe teaches that the joy of Purim isn't dependent on circumstances—it's a decree, even when joy feels impossible. Through the mystical idea of Or Makif—a surrounding light beyond human merit—he shows that salvation and joy can reach us even in the darkest times. Join us as we reflect on how his words offer hope and strength, even when everything seems lost.

In this episode of The Neshamah Project, we explore a deep teaching from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim about the spiritual connection between work, wisdom, and rest. Drawing from the story of Bezalel, who built the Mishkan with divine wisdom, we uncover the powerful insight that spiritual experiences need to be grounded through action. But what happens on Shabbat, when that work is forbidden? How do we integrate spiritual insight without action? Through the lens of the Degel's teaching, we'll explore how Shabbat represents a state of spiritual completion—a moment when heaven and earth align naturally, and the work is to simply dwell in the divine presence. Join us as we reflect on how to hold spiritual insight in both work and rest, action and surrender.

In this episode of Rabbi Ben Newman offers poetic, interpretive translations of the Morning Blessings, and Modeh Ani inviting us to awaken with presence, gratitude, and wonder.

A commentary on Parshat BeShalach (specifically Exodus 14:15) by the Maor VaShemesh (R' Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl).

In this episode, we explore the Me'or Einayim's mystical reading of Parshat Bo, which sees the Exodus story as an inner liberation of our awareness from “Egypt.” The commentary teaches that even mundane labors or tough experiences contain hidden sparks of divine wisdom, if we bring mindful attention to them. Ultimately, we move from constricted consciousness to the full light of oneness, redeeming the Aleph hidden beneath the Bet.

In this episode of the Neshamah Project Podcast, Rabbi Ben Newman presents a deep exploration of Maor VaShemesh on Parashat Vaera. Through the lenses of Kabbalah and mindfulness, he unpacks the divine attributes of loving-kindness, awe and justice, and compassionate balance embodied by the patriarchs. Tune in to discover timeless wisdom for cultivating harmony and resilience in your spiritual journey and everyday life.

In this episode of The Neshamah Project, we explore the Degel Machaneh Ephraim's profound teaching on Shemot 9, reimagining the burning bush as a symbol for distracting thoughts in prayer and meditation. Through the lens of the Baal Shem Tov's wisdom, we delve into how these "foreign thoughts" are not obstacles but opportunities to elevate hidden sparks of holiness within them. Discover how this transformative perspective can enrich your spiritual practice, turning moments of distraction into profound connections with the divine. Join us in uncovering the sacred potential within the mundane.

This guided meditation and teaching recording is drawn from a session Rabbi Ben Newman led at the Dharmakaya Center for Wellbeing in Cragsmoor, NY, on December 22nd, 2024. The practice is inspired by Abraham Abulafia's mystical traditions, incorporating chanting, intentional head movements with the five vowel sounds, and mindfulness of the four dimensions—body, heart, mind, and spirit. It's a journey into spiritual awareness and connection.

In this episode, Rabbi Ben presents a profound teaching from the *Degel Machaneh Ephraim* on the transformation of Jacob to Israel. Through a mystical lens, we explore Jacob's wrestling with God and man, his ascent from constriction to expansiveness, and the deeper significance of his name change. Drawing on the *gematria* connection between *Elohim* (God) and *HaTeva* (nature), Rabbi Ben reveals how Jacob's journey symbolizes our own struggles to rise above the limitations of the natural world and find divine presence in every moment. Tune in to uncover the timeless wisdom of this story and its relevance to our spiritual growth today.

A teaching from the Degel Machneh Efraim on Parshat Vayetzei with an explanation for how it applies today and a guided meditation.

For those on Spotify who didn't get this episode because they didn't post it because it was "music," I have uploaded this again with some speaking at the beginning. Hopefully it will work this time for Spotify listeners.

In this episode, we explore a teaching from the Degel Machaneh Efraim on Abraham as the embodiment of the Torah, living a life woven with wisdom, awe, and divine presence. Through meditation and reflection, we uncover how Abraham's path invites us to cultivate spiritual wholeness and become vessels for Shechinah's abundant blessings in our daily lives.

In this episode, Rabbi Ben Newman guides a meditation on presence, inviting us to let go of past regrets and future worries. Rooted in ancient wisdom, this practice opens us to the freedom and quiet joy of being fully present, embracing the moment with compassion and awareness.

In this episode, Rabbi Ben Newman explores the Baal Shem Tov's insights on spiritual growth through a mystical lens. Reflecting on Parshat Noach, Rabbi Ben delves into how the Baal Shem Tov compares the spiritual journeys of Noah and Abraham, shedding light on their unique paths toward the Divine. Through stories and teachings, Rabbi Ben brings to life the Baal Shem Tov's metaphor of a parent guiding a child to walk, a beautiful analogy for how we strengthen our own spiritual resilience when moments of connection and distance arise. This episode offers listeners a chance to explore the rhythm of spiritual life, where closeness and distance both play essential roles in deepening our understanding and fostering a more vibrant inner journey.

In this episode Rabbi Ben Newman presents a guided meditation on teshuvah/returning.

In this episode Rabbi Ben Newman shares a story about how we view time from the Seer of Lublin.

In this episode, I present an interview I did with my friend Moshe Lev (Robert) Greenblatt in around 2004. He discusses early Jewish renewal, and his post Holocaust struggle with God. Here is his Wikipedia page:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Greenblatt_%28anti_war_activist%29

Commentary on Parshat Va-Era from Rabbi Ben Newman and Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl.

In this enlightening episode of the Neshamah Project, Rabbi Ben Newman delves into the profound depths of Parshat Shemot, guided by the insightful commentary of Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl. This discussion unveils the spiritual exile of awareness experienced by the Israelites in Egypt, a metaphor for our own times when consciousness can feel trapped by the mundane and material.

In this episode of the Neshamah Project, Rabbi Ben Newman delves into the mystical teachings of the Degel Machaneh Ephraim on Parshat Vayishlach, exploring its profound spiritual insights. Rabbi Newman offers a unique interpretation that emphasizes mindfulness and the elevation of the material world to divine consciousness. Join us for a journey through ancient wisdom, interpreted through the lens of modern spirituality and inclusivity, enriching our daily practice of finding the divine in every moment.

In this episode we delve into a commentary of Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl on Parshat Toldot.

Some readings from Rebbe Nachman of Bratslav on joy and suffering.

Four Worlds Meditation for Healing and Connection: Embark on a 20-minute transformative journey through the Kabbalistic framework of the Four Worlds. This meditation guides listeners from the tangible realm of Asiyah (Action) to the transcendent sphere of Atzilut (Emanation), fostering a deep connection to one's physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual layers. Designed as a beacon of solace, it offers a pathway to find strength, clarity, and unity, especially resonant amidst the challenges of recent events.

In this short meditation for Sukkot journey through the spiritual dimensions of the Seven Directions – East, South, West, North, Up, Down, and Inside. Embrace the elements of air, fire, earth, and water, and connect deeply with the realms of spirit, the Holy Blessed One, and the immanent divine presence. This serene session harmonizes your soul with the universe's energies, providing grounding, clarity, and a profound sense of connection. Set against a backdrop of tranquil music, this meditation is a soothing balm for the soul.

Join Rabbi Ben Newman in this evocative episode of The Neshamah Project as he delves into the profound theme of impermanence, symbolized by the fragile walls of the sukkah. Drawing inspiration from the Mei HaShiloach's tale of Rabbi Yehoshua's encounter with the Athenian sages, Rabbi Newman weaves together the teachings of Kohelet, the ephemeral nature of the sukkah, and the grounding practices of mindfulness. Listen deeply and let this episode guide you to embrace the delicate balance of existence, reminding us that to truly live, we must breathe in the 'air upon air' of our transient lives. An episode not to be missed as Sukkot approaches, offering spiritual tools for human thriving amidst life's ever-changing currents.

Step into the serene fields of Elul with this guided meditation. Tradition whispers that the Divine awaits us in these meadows, ready to listen and connect. Traverse a landscape of reflection, encounter the radiant Presence, and emerge with blessings and insights to illuminate your High Holy Days and beyond.

In this episode of the Neshamah Project, Rabbi Ben Newman delves into the celebration of Tu B'Av, the Jewish Day of Love. Historically, this summer holiday served as a day of matchmaking, where young women donned white dresses and danced in vineyards. It also marked a significant turning point in Jewish history: the day when intermarriage between Jewish tribes was permitted, ending age-old divisions. But beyond these traditions, Tu B'Av holds a deeper, mystical significance. Rabbi Newman examines teachings from the Talmud and Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl's work "Maor Einayim". He presents an understanding of Tu B'Av as a harbinger of the messianic era, a time of universal love and unity. The circle dance, a common feature of this holiday, is symbolic of a world without hierarchies and divisions. The episode concludes with an inspiring message of hope, patience, and the potential of human love to transcend all barriers.

In this episode, we talk to Rabbi Michael Strassfeld about the future of Judaism and Torah in honor of the Hebrew month of Sivan and Shavuot. Text sheet is here:https://bit.ly/sivantexts

A short teaching from Reb Zalman Schachter-Shalomi's book "The First Step: A primer of Jews Spiritual Life" called mmaleh kol almin.

In this episode we interview Rabbi Jill Hammer, Phd. on the topic of Shechinah in honor of the Hebrew month of Nisan. The text sheet can be found here: bit.ly/shechinahpdf

In this week's episode we present Hasidic teachings on parshat Vayakhel as translated by Dr. Arthur Green. If you would like to support the work of this podcast and receive bonus content, become a patron here: https://www.patreon.com/TheNeshamahProject

In honor of the Hebrew month of Adar this episode contains an interview with Professor Nathaniel Berman on Sitra Achra (The Other Side) and an exploration of Evil in the world, in the Divine and in ourselves. We follow a text sheet created by Professor Berman which can be found here: bit.ly/sitraachra . If you would like to donate to help support the Neshamah Project Podcast, become a Patron here: https://www.patreon.com/TheNeshamahProject (you also can get exclusive content like the unedited version of this interview)

In this episode I read a text sheet prepared by Professor Nathaniel Berman https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nathaniel_Berman on Sitra Achra (the Other Side)-- supernatural evil that can be found here: bit.ly/sitraachra

In this episode in honor of the month of Shvat when we celebrate Tu Bishvat (the New Year of the Trees), we have part one of our interview with Professor JH Chajes who wrote the recent book The Kabbalistic Tree (https://www.psupress.org/books/titles/978-0-271-09345-1.html) Also see ilanot.org. A wonderful discussion ensues! If you would like to purchase the book go to the above website and enter the code ILANOT for %30 off.

Reading texts on the idea of the Tree of Life/ Etz Chayyim in honor of the Hebrew month of Shvat. Here is the text sheet: bit.ly/etzchayyimtexts or bit.ly/etzchayyim

Service at Pleasantville Community Synagogue led by Rabbi Ben Newman and Rabbi Shoshana Leis on 1/13/23.

In this episode Rabbi Laura Duhan Kaplan (https://www.sophiastreet.com/) Leads us through a text sheet prepared by Professor Daniel Matt on the idea of Devekut in Kabbalah.l Here is a link to the text sheet to follow along: bit.ly/devekut

In this episode we present texts on the idea of "devekut" (clinging or cleaving to the Divine) as collated by Daniel Matt here: bit.ly/devekut in honor of the Hebrew month of Tevet.

In this episode we explore quotes from the Zohar and other traditional Jewish sources, as well as a piece by Emmanuel Levinas on the human soul, and how we may approach the Infinite within us by contracting our egos.

In this episode Rabbi Ben Newman leads a short guided meditation on Or HaGanuz, the Hidden Inner Light of Awareness.

In this episode Rabbi Ben Newman interviews the acclaimed Professor Daniel Matt on the idea of Or HaGanuz (the hidden light) in honor of the Hebrew month of Kislev, and in particular, this text sheet that he prepared on the topic: bit.ly/thehiddenlight

In this episode, we present teachings on Or HaGanuz (The Hidden Light) from a series of texts compiled by Professor Daniel Matt. The link to the text sheet can be found here: https://bit.ly/thehiddenlight