Podcasts about Baal Shem Tov

Learning Lessons in Tanya chapter 34 climaxes the essential importance of joy in all aspects of Inner Avodas Hashem. Kabalat HaTorah is the inner Luchos aka Tablets of Joy & Bitterness, learnt from Dovid Hamelech zya, the Baal Shem Tov, the strength of Rus to convert toviling in the deep waters of Efrat to bring out this inner Joy of Moshiach. Cover pic

#361> Sponsored by Zalmie Jacobs in memory of his grandfather Reb Yaakov Katz ben Shneur Zalman Hakohen Z'L and Zalmie's mother Chaya Golda bas Yaakov Hakohen and Liba Katz, all of whom were intrigued by and curious about the Baal Shem Tov and his progeny.> To purchase "Founder of Hasidism: The Quest for the Historical Baal Shem Tov": https://amzn.to/43d1DBi> To purchase "The Besht": https://amzn.to/4mqQOD8> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)> Intro/outro music credit Thank You Hashem Nation and TYHMusic, to listen to the "Back of the Wagon": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePOi7IPOjDoSupport the show

#360> Sponsored by Zalmie Jacobs in memory of his grandfather Reb Yaakov Katz ben Shneur Zalman Hakohen Z'L and Zalmie's mother Chaya Golda bas Yaakov Hakohen and Liba Katz, all of whom were intrigued by and curious about the Baal Shem Tov and his progeny.> To purchase "Founder of Hasidism: The Quest for the Historical Baal Shem Tov": https://amzn.to/43d1DBi> To purchase "The Besht": https://amzn.to/4mqQOD8> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)> Intro/outro music credit Thank You Hashem Nation and TYHMusic, to listen to the "Back of the Wagon": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePOi7IPOjDoSupport the show

התוכן בסיום מס' סוטה מדובר אודות ענינים שלכאו' אין ענין הברכה ניכר בהם בגלוי. וזהו ע"ד הענינים דבפ' בחוקותי, שקוראים כהכנה למ"ת, ובפ' כי תבוא "שאף שלפי הנראה דברי התוכחות אלו הם קללות, אבל לפי האמת אינם רק ברכות" כפי שזה כבר נתגלה בפנימיות התורה ובדפוס [לקו"ת פ' בחוקותי]. ועד"ז מסופר "מעשה רב" בנגלה דתורה [מו"ק ט: בקשר לרשב"י ובנו]. וכ"ה בסיום מס' סוטה שלומדים בימי ספה"ע כהכנה למ"ת. וזהו גם מה שהעבודה דימי הספירה קשורה עם קרבן העומר שהוא משעורים, ע"ד קרבן סוטה, שהתכלית בזה היא שיהי' "ונקתה ונזרעה זרע" – שמתברכים בזחו"ק. וכמ"ש ש"אם בחוקותי תלכו גו' – ונתתי גשמיכם בעתם וגו', וכפירוש הבעש"ט ש"גשמיכם" כולל ענינים הגשמיים. א' הענינים המבוארים בסיום מס' סוטה שמובן בפשטות שהכוונה בו הוא לטוב הנראה והנגלה הוא ד"בעקבתא שמשיחא חוצפא יסגי": שלאחר שכבר "כלו כל הקצין" צריך יהודי לתבוע ובכוחו לדרוש ביאת המשיח עד באופן של "חוצפא", כפס"ד ברור בתורה.משיחת אור ליום ה' פ' נשא, ערב חג השבועות ה'תשמ"ו ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=22-05-2025 Synopsis The end of Masechta Sotah (which is studied during Sefiras Ha'Omer as a preparation for the giving of the Torah) discusses events that seem not to be positive ones, similar to the passages in Bechukosai (which we read in preparation for the giving of the Torah) and Ki Savo, where, “although these words of rebuke appear to be curses, in truth they are nothing but blessings,” as has already been revealed and printed in the inner teachings of the Torah [Likkutei Torah on parashas Bechukosai]. There's also a story in this vein recounted in Nigleh [Moed Katan 9b, regarding Rashbi and his son]. This is also why service the days of Sefirah are associated with the Omer offering, which is brought from barley – like the offering of the Sotah, because the ultimate goal is that “she will be exempted and bear children” – blessed with living, enduring children. As the verse states, “If you follow My statutes…I will give your rains in their time…” and as the Baal Shem Tov explained, “your rains” (gishmeichem) includes physical blessings. One of the events described at the end of Masechta Sotah (which obviously is meant plainly in a positive sense) is that “In the times of the approach of Moshiach, impudence will increase”: after “all the end-times have passed,” a Jew can and must demand the coming of Moshiach, even in a manner of “impudence,” in accordance with the clear halachic ruling of the Torah.Excerpt from sichah of Wednesday night, parashas Nasso, Erev Shavuos 5746 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=22-05-2025 לזכות מושקא בת חנה חי' שתחי' ליום ההולדת שלה כ"ד אייר - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות

The Rebbe reflects on a teaching of the Abarbanel, adding the Baal Shem Tov's insight that spiritual work must involve the body. Chassidus reveals that even the soul will eventually receive vitality from the body. Thus, rather than rejecting physical life, one should sanctify it—knowing Hashem in all one's ways—bringing inner peace and deeper Divine connection. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5463

We at Shirat David Efrat are celebrating the Hilula of Rashbi continue the Tradition through Rebbe Akiva's main student Rebbe Shimon Bar Yochai through to the Arizal through the Baal Shem Tov to Rebbe Nachman ben Faiga Simcha by beginning Lag Bomer with a Siyum of the Special Torah in Likutei Moharan Chapter 37... Cover pic from the Trip to London we found a Sefirah Counting Shtiebel in the English Country side, picking up sparks all the way home

In this episode, we delve into the powerful declaration recited before counting the Omer: “For the sake of the unification of the Holy One, blessed is He, and His Divine Presence (Shechinah), in fear and love, to unify the name Yud-Key with Vav-Key in perfect unity, in the name of all Israel.”  This phrase encapsulates a central spiritual mission—to unify Hashem's name—and we explore how this idea is not only mystical, but deeply practical.From Pesukei D'Zimra to Shema, our daily tefillos are structured around this theme.  Drawing on insights from Chassidus, the Baal Shem Tov, Rabbi Nachum Ish Gamzu, and contemporary Torah thinkers, this episode offers a path to internalize that all is from Hashem—and ultimately for the good. By minimizing the delay between challenge and trust, between pain and perspective, we take real steps to unify His name and bring the world closer to the era of Moshiach.Join the Conversation! Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up. 

This week I have three stories for you the first is about a poor melamed who wants a blessing from the Ruzhiner Rebbe for wealth, the second about the naming of the Rebbe Maharash and the third how the Baal Shem Tov prepared the knife for shechting (slaughtering). If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/the-water-carrier-of-polotzk. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

Originates from the Baal Shem Tov, The Maggid & The Alter RebbeThe background and facts about this auspicious Nigun

התוכן ישנה תורה מהרב המגיד עה"פ בסיום חמישי דפ' אחרי "ושמרתם את חוקותי.. אשר יעשה אותם האדם וחי בהם! ע"ד משל ציצית, כשהם דוממים אין בהם חיות וכשיהודי עושה בהם מצוה אזי "וחי בהם"‏ – ‏הוא ממשיך בהם חיות שיהיו "לעבעדיקע ציצית", וע"ד מה שמסופר על הבעש"ט שפעם הסתכלו עליו וראו כי הציצית מתנענעות אצלו כדבר חי! הם נהיו בפועל ובגשמיות דבר חי! הביאור בתורה זו בחסידות: החיות שנמשך ע"י עשיית המצוות של האדם (התחתון) הוא חיות אלקי שלמע' מסדר ההשתלשלות, ועי"ז גם "עושים" כביכול את הציור דאדם העליון ("ועשיתם אַתם") וכו'.משיחת אור לי"ב ניסן ה'תשמ"א ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=05-05-2025 Synopsis The verse states (at the end of chamishi of parashas Acharei), “You shall observe My statutes…which a man shall do and live by them.” The Maggid explains this with the analogy of tzitzis: first the tzizis are an inanimate object, but when a Jew uses them for a mitzvah, the tzizis “lives by them” – the Jew draws life into them and turns them into “living tzitzis,” like the story of the Baal Shem Tov, whose tzitzis were seen moving like a living being – they literally and physically became alive. The explanation of this teaching in Chassidus is as follows: the vitality drawn down by the physical man is Divine life that transcends seder hishtalshelus – and it also “makes” the Supernal Man, so to speak (as the verse says, “and you shall do them” – spelled ועשיתם אַתם – “and you shall make”) etc.Excerpt from sichah of Wednesday night, 12 Nissan 5741 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=05-05-2025

Learn about some more of the Baal Shem Tov's foundational teachings, as well as the story of his Histalkus.-This episode is dedicated to the Tzeirei Hashluchim of the Rebbe to the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.Menachem & Mussia Sheyichyu Tiechtel.

This week I have three stories for you the first is about a young Chabad chassid serving on an Israeli air force base that gets in trouble for teaching Torah to the kids there, the second about the Baal Shem Tov and a dowry that he owes and the third about a simple yid learning a powerful lesson from Reb Mordechai of Chernobyl about parnasa. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/exactly-when-its-needed. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

When the Jewish heart starts beating again How a story of the Baal Shem Tov continued to bear fruit centuries later.(Achron Shel Pesach)

This week I have three stories for you. The first is about Ami Pykovski and what happens when he decides to shut down his big clothing store on Shabbos, the second about Reb Leib Sarah's, one of the closest Chassidim of the Baal Shem Tov wanting to move to the Holy Land and the last about the Sanzer Rebbe and a poor Jew who blows a large amount of tzedakah on fish for Shabbos. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/where-heaven-and-earth-kiss. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

This week I have three stories for you. The first is about a wealthy merchant who comes to the Baal Shem Tov to be blessed with children and then forgets it was the Baal Shem Tov that blessed him, the second about Rabbi Mordechai Dov of Hornosteipel helping a poor Jew and the third about Reb Hillel Paritcher and a wealthy merchant who wouldn't close his store for Shabbos. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/regards-from-yonah. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

התוכן [המשך] אף שענין זה, ההתבוננות בגודל העילוי להיות מציאות בפ"ע, מודגש ביום הולדת, אבל יש ללמוד מזה לכל השנה כולה: בכל בוקר, ובכל רגע (כתורת הבעש"ט), נעשה האדם "ברי' חדשה". ולכן, ביחס לחידוש מציאותו ביום זה, אינו יכול להסתפק בכללות עבודתו ופעולתו בעניני תומ"צ בימים שלפנ"ז, כיון שביום זה ניתנו לו כל ענינים אלו מן המוכן, וביחס לחידוש מציאותו ביום זה, אי"ז עבודה בכח עצמו. ומכיון ש"אדם לעמל יולד", עליו להתייגע ולהוסיף בעבודתו ביום זה כדי לעבוד את עבודתו בכח עצמו. והוראה זו נכונה אפי' לבן שבעים וכו' והוא "עשיר" בידיעות התורה וכו' – עליו לדעת שכ"ז אינם פעולות שלו שפעל היום! והיום עליו להיות "מציאות בפ"ע" ומובדל ממציאותו דאתמול, ולא להסתפק בלחזור מה שהוא כבר יודע אלא להתייגע לחדש בתורה היום! כהלימוד מה"שטורעם" דיום הולדת, שיכול להיות "מלמדים אותו כל התורה כולה" ושלם בגופו וכו' – אי"ז מגיע לגודל העילוי כשנעשה ברי' חדשה ומתחיל להתייגע מחדש בכח עצמו!ב' חלקים משיחת ח"י אלול ה'תשמ"ב ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=25-03-2025 Synopsis (Continuation.) Although this focus on the tremendous quality of becoming independent is emphasized on one's birthday, one must take a lesson from it for the entire year. Just like we learn from a birthday, that although one is taught the entire Torah in the womb and his body is complete etc., it doesn't even remotely compare to the quality of becoming a new being upon birth and serving Hashem through his own effort, the same applies to every morning and every moment (as the Baal Shem Tov taught), when a person becomes a new creation. Therefore, in his new reality of today, he cannot suffice with the accomplishments in Torah and mitzvos he has accumulated from before, because as far as today's reality is concerned, whatever he has from before is handed to him, and it's not service through his own effort. Since “man is born to toil,” he must toil and increase in his service today with his own effort based on who he is now. This lesson applies even if someone is seventy years old, etc. and has acquired a wealth of Torah and mitzvos etc.: Today, he must be an independent entity distinct from who he was yesterday, and therefore he must not suffice with merely reviewing what he already knows, but rather must toil and innovate in Torah today.2 excerpt from sichah of 18 Elul 5742 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=25-03-2025

When Boruch hosts the Holy Baal Shem Tov, he sees a wondrous sight- the Maharal of Prague visits the Baal Shem Tov during Tikkun Chatzos and tells the Baal Shem Tov to inform his host that he will expect a son who will have the Maharal's neshomo. This boy grew up to become the famous "Shpoler Zeide".

Once the Baal Shem Tov revealed himself, there were lots of new things that he taught, with new approaches. Find out what they are, here. _This episode is dedicated in honor of the birthday of Michoel שיחי' Wayden on י"ז אדר With brochos for health and success in all your learning, and to continue bringing Nachas and joy to your family and friends.By his parents Mayer and Sara Wayden

The Rebbe informs the recipient that he read the pan at the Ohel on the Previous Rebbe's yahrzeit and expresses confidence that the Rebbe will continue to advocate for his followers. He references teachings from the Rebbe Rashab and the Baal Shem Tov, highlighting the power of positive influence. He concludes with blessings for good news. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/adar/910

The Rebbe confirms reading the pan at the Ohel, blessing the recipient and his family. He urges continued spiritual and material assistance to others, citing the Baal Shem Tov's teaching on persistent kindness. He requests an update on someone's observance and concludes with blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/adar/911

The Rebbe urges the recipient to reject melancholy, emphasizing the Baal Shem Tov's teaching on serving Hashem with joy, especially for those immersed in Torah and prayer. He cites Zohar on the power of a joyful countenance and encourages internalizing this mindset in daily life. He concludes with blessings for complete healing and good news. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/014/005/5167

The Inner Secret of Purim. אור נפלא של פורים. Teachings AriZal &Baal Shem Tov.

The Rebbe urges organizing gatherings around Yud-Tes Kislev to strengthen the dissemination of Chassidus, Torah study, mitzvah observance, and character refinement. He highlights the Baal Shem Tov's teaching that spreading these wellsprings prepares the world for Mashiach and blesses the recipient with success in this mission. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/kislev/820

Episode #195: How The Gaon Reb Meir Margolis Became A Talmid Of The Baal Shem Tov

התוכן בקשר למ"ש רש"י בפ' תצוה (כח, ד) [בראשון דפ' תצוה] בענין האפוד שזה "כמין סינר.. שחוגרות השרות כשרוכבות על הסוסים", מספרים המלמדים שרש"י עצמו ראה פעם אשה רוכבת על סוס עם סינר כזה ומזה למד איך נראה האפוד [ואף שיכול להיות שהסיפור אינו אמיתי, הרי כמו הסיפורים שמספרים החסידים על הבעש"ט שמרוב ההתפעלות יכול להיות שהם שינו או הוסיפו בזה... (וזה הי' שבחו של אהרן בהדלקת המנורה ("להגיד שבחו של אהרן שלא שינה") – אף שידע גודל ענין הדלקת המנורה וכו' וזה הי' צריך לפעול עליו "שיצא מכליו" ובכ"ז הדליק את הנרות כדבעי בלי לשנות וכו'), בכ"ז, כיון שמדובר אודות גדול ונשיא בישראל, זה יכול להיות אמת, וה"הוראה" שבזה היא אמיתית]. וההוראה: מכל דבר שרואים צריך שיתוסף ענין בתורה.משיחת מוצש"פ תצוה ה'תשל"ט ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=02-03-2025 Synopsis Regarding Rashi's explanation [in rishon of parashas Tetzaveh (28:4)] that the Ephod was “like a type of apron…that noblewomen wear when riding on horseback,” cheder teachers tell the story that Rashi himself once saw a woman riding a horse with such an apron etc., and he used that to describe how the Ephod looked. Although it's possible the story isn't true, since it was said of a great leader of the Jewish people, it could be true, and the lesson from it is true. (This is like those who, out of excitement, alter or add details to stories of the Baal Shem Tov, which also explains why it was “Aharon's praise” that “he did not deviate” from lighting the Menorah it exactly as instructed: despite his spiritual passion from understanding the profound significance of lighting the Menorah etc., he didn't lose himself, and still managed to do it correctly.) The lesson is that everything one sees must lead to an increase in Torah.Excerpt from sichah of Motzaei Shabbos parashas Tetzaveh 5739 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=02-03-2025 לע"נ ר' מנחם מענדל ב"ר משה יוסף ע"ה הרשקוביץ ליום היארצייט שלו א' אדר. ת.נ.צ.ב.ה.

After R. Shmuel Tzadok goes away from life, his business affairs are handled by his son R. Yehudah Aryeh while his son R. Moshe learns Torah all day. However, within a few years, R. Moshe turns his back on the straight path and follows the lifestyle and customs of the local nobility. This causes anguish to his brother R. Yehudah Aryeh, who moves back to Prague to ease his pain.

Several weeks later, in Elul, R. Chaim Rappaport visits the Baal Shem Tov in Medzibuzh and hears the underlying story behind his mission to the abandoned estate. 160 years previously, a talmid chacham from Prague moved to Lvov. Known as “R. Shmuel Tzadok, the opponent of Kabbalah and Mussar", his hostility to Mussar, and to Kabbalah in which he had no faith, he implanted in his sons R. Moshe and R. Yehudah Arye.

Meanwhile, R. Chaim Rappaport must travel to an abandoned estate outside Lvov to learn the first four chapters of Hilchos Brochos. A torrential rain almost prevents the journey, but as soon as the Rov begins to learn, the clouds part and the sun shines forth. He drinks a cup of water from a nearby spring before returning to Lvov.

Back in Prague, R. Yehudah Aryeh slowly forgets about his brother R. Moshe's sorry state. He sends his grandsons to learn with the Tosfos YomTov, and one of them, Avraham Moshe, receives special instruction in Kabbalah. Soon, an old friend of the family reminds them that their ancestor R. Shmuel Tzadok was punished with a son like R. Moshe because he himself would ridicule those who studied kabbalah. Avraham Moshe is saddened to hear of his great-uncle Moshe's situation, and asks R. Eliyahu Baal Shem, recently moved to Prague for advice.

R. Eliyahu Baal Shem gives R. Avraham Moshe a set of instructions to arouse his great-uncle Moshe to teshuva. When he puts up a mezuzah on the front door of Moshe's house, this opens up the gates of repentance. As the Baal Shem Tov concludes the story 160 years later, the mysteries of hashgocho protis, Divine Providence, are revealed in all their detail, right down to the drink of fresh springwater R. Chaim Rappaport had enjoyed just a few weeks earlier on the site of the ruined estate of R. Moshe, son of R. Shmuel Tzadok.

The Baal Shem Tov sends his talmid Moshe Meshel to deliver two letters, both to residents of Lvov. The first, to the Av Beis Din R. Chaim Rappaport, contains mysterious instructions for an upcoming journey. The second, to R. Chaim Yisroel the Potter, is delivered in silence. Unbeknownst to anyone, Chaim Yisroel is a hidden tzaddik who must act soon to prevent a calamity.

Send us a textUnlock the mysteries of the human brain and discover why this remarkable organ is considered one of the most extraordinary creations, rivaling the wonders of the universe. Join us as we explore the intricate network of billions of nerve cells that govern our emotions, motor skills, and decision-making processes. We promise you'll gain a profound understanding of brain plasticity, the brain's incredible ability to adapt and compensate for its shortcomings, ensuring normal functioning despite challenges. This journey will reveal the uniqueness of human monotasking and the profound impact of focusing on a single task at hand.Reflect on the timeless wisdom of Moshe Rabbeinu and Rav Shimshin David Pincus as we draw meaningful parallels to the importance of being present in our daily lives. Inspired by teachings from the Baal Shem Tov, we delve into how distractions, like the incessant pinging of our phones, can detract from our ability to be truly present. Embrace the power of focus and presence, whether you're studying, sharing a meal, or catching up with a friend. Let this episode challenge you to be fully "there" in your moments, harnessing the extraordinary capabilities of your mind in a world filled with distractions.Support the showJoin The Motivation Congregation WhatsApp community for daily motivational Torah content!Elevate your impact by becoming a TMC Emerald Donor! Your much-needed backing is crucial for our mission of disseminating the wisdom of the Torah. Join today for just $18.00 per month. (Use your maaser money!) https://buy.stripe.com/00g8xl5IT8dFcKc5ky---------------- SUBSCRIBE to The Weekly Parsha for an insightful weekly talk on the week's Parsha. Listen on Spotify or 24six! Access all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our website, themotivationcongregation.org ----------------Questions or Comments? Please email me @ michaelbrooke97@gmail.com

התוכן מאסרו של אדה"ז בא כתוצאה מהפצת "שיטת חסידות חב"ד" לכלל ישראל, ומזה מובן שהגאולה של י"ט כסלו היא גם הגאולה והנצחון של כללות "שיטת חסידות חב"ד" – שזה יכול להגיע, וזה יגיע סוף סוף, לכל אחד ואחת מישראל, ובאופן של "פדה בשלום נפשי". החידוש של שיטת "חסידות חב"ד" על "חסידות הכללית" הוא, שזה יבוא באופן של הבנה והשגה, שזה משפיע על הרגש שבלב עד גם על המעשה. כי אע"פ שה"מעשה הוא העיקר", אבל רואים בפועל שכאשר זה בא ביחד עם ההבנה והשגה בשכל ועם רגש שבלב, אז המעשה הוא באופן גדול, עמוק וחי יותר. וכידוע תורת הבעש"ט עה"פ "כי תראה חמור .. עזוב תעזוב עמו", שאין לשבור את הגוף ונפה"ב, אלא אדרבה – לעבוד את ה' יחד אתם. ביחד עם ההוספה של שיטת חב"ד – שלא רק שכח המעשה מסכים לזה, אלא כל כחות הגוף, כולל השכל שבמוח, עובדים את ה'. הזכרון של חג הגאולה היום צ"ל באופן שזה יביא אור וחיות בעבודת ה' בהווה. א' השיחות דהתוועדות י"ט כסלו ה'תשכ"ט ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-02-2025 Synopsis Since the Alter Rebbe's imprisonment came as a result of disseminating the approach of Chabad Chassidus to all Jews, it is understood that the redemption of 19 Kislev was also the redemption and triumph of Chabad Chassidus – so that it can and ultimately will reach every single Jew, and in a manner of peace – “He has redeemed my soul in peace.” The novelty Chabad Chassidus compared to general Chassidus is the emphasis on intellectual comprehension and understanding, which influences the emotions of the heart and, ultimately, one's actions. For although “action is the main thing,” when action is accompanied by intellectual comprehension and heartfelt emotion, the action becomes greater and deeper, and attains more vitality, as we see in practice. As the Baal Shem Tov taught on the verse, “When you see a donkey (chamor)... you shall surely help along with him,” that one should not try to break the body and the animal soul, but on the contrary, to serve Hashem together with them – and with the additional dimension added by the Chabad approach, that not only does the faculty of action agree to it and serve Hashem, but all the faculties of the body, including the intellect of the mind. Our commemoration of 19 Kislev is not just a memory, but must inject light and vitality into our Divine service in the present.Sichah from farbrengen of 19 Kislev 5729 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-02-2025

This week I have two and more stories. The first is about a couple in Mezhibuz that the Baal Shem Tov takes on a journey, the second and more are stories of the Rebbe Rayatz and the Ramash in honor of Yud Shvat. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/a-town-full-of-boruch-moshes. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

When a fire threatens to destroy a small town, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi extinguishes the fierce flames with a glance. Later, a Russian Army captain who had sent soldiers to unsuccessfully fight the fire shares a story about the holy Baal Shem Tov with the Rebbe.

The Baal Shem Tov offers a brocho to a confident businessman, who turns it down. When the businessman loses his fortune 16 years later, he has a second chance thanks to the Baal Shem Tov's ruach haKodesh.

Let's keep RUNNING and JUMPING with MARIO !  There are more mystical secrets in these underground pipes of MUSHROOM LAND!!  Did you know, that when interviewed,  the Japanese geniuses who created this cute character, they said that they wanted you to fall in love with him. So, they made him lovable,  relatable, everyman . A SIMPLE WORKING man . But here lies a great secret. The foundation of CHASSIDUS ,  the teachings of the BAAL SHEM TOV , that even SIMPLE people can make COSMIC RECTIFICATIONS  UNIFICATION . Yes, even you can elevate SPARKS OF HOLINESS trapped for thousands of years in far away places!  specifically the most simple people can do things that no tzaddik can! If this idea interests you! Consider... Listening to the full episode on Spotify , Apple and other Podcast platforms.

התוכן כ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר סיפר פעם ע"ד המאמר שנאמר ע"י הבעש"ט, ובהוספות של הרב המגיד וכו', עה"פ [רביעי דפ' בשלח] "וישב הים לפנות בוקר לאיתנו" "אל תיקרי לאיתנו אלא לתנאו" – שבשעה שאמר הקב"ה המאמר (לבריאת הים) התנה שיקרע הים לישראל, ואם לאו "לא היו נמצאים הימים ולא נבראו במקום הזה, כי יתבטלו ממציאות הבריאה וכו'". ובזה יובן מארז"ל צדיקים עושים רצונו של מקום וכו'. ובזה יובן גם מ"ש רבי פינחס בן יאיר לגינאי נהרא "פלוג מימיך שאני הולך לדבר מצוה וכו' אם אין אתה חולק מימיך גוזרני עליך שלא יעברו בך מים לעולם", שהתנה הקב"ה עם מעשה בראשית שיעשו רצון הצדיקים אף שאינם בטבעם וכו'. וההוראה: יש לדעת שישנו תנאי משי"ב שבנוגע לעניני תומ"צ צריך ההעלם וההסתר שבעולם להבקע! אלא שהבקיעה בפועל היא ע"י מס"נ (קפיצת נחשון לים). וכמו בסיפור של רפב"י נבקע הנהר בפועל גם עבור בני לוי' שלו וגם עבור חמורו, ועד"ז בנוגע אלינו שמבלי הבט על המעמד ומצב שלנו, הרי "בני לוי'" אנו, שהולכים יחד עם נשיא הדור, ונבקעים כל ההעלמות וההסתרים גם עבורנו!ב' חלקים משיחת יו"ד שבט ה'תשי"ז ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=04-02-2025 Synopsis My father-in-law the Rebbe once told a story regarding the maamar of the Baal Shem Tov, with the additions of the Maggid etc., on the verse (in revi'i of Parashas Beshalach), “The sea reverted to its former strength,” and the teaching of our Sages, “ “Do not read it as ‘to its former strength (l'eisano)' but as ‘to its condition (l'tna'o),'” because when Hashem created the sea, He stipulated with it that it would split for the Jewish people – the Baal Shem Tov explains that if the sea would not split, “the seas would not exist and would not have been created in this place, for they will cease to exist in creation etc.” Based on this, we can understand the expression of our Sages that the Tzaddikim “perform the will of the Omnipresent etc.” This also explains what Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair told the Ginai River, “Ginai, part your water for me” for I am going to do a mitzvah, and “If you do not part, I decree upon you that water will never flow through you again” – because Hashem stipulated with the created beings that they would fulfill the will of the Tzaddikim, even if it defies their nature etc. The lesson is that one must know that all the hiddenness and concealment in the world is subject to a condition since the Six Days of Creation that it must split for the sake of Torah and mitzvos. Just that for the actual splitting to occur, one must jump into the sea with mesiras-nefesh like Nachshon. And just like in the story of Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair, the river split not only for him, but also for those accompanying him and even for his donkey – so, too, the hiddenness and concealment must split for us, regardless of our personal state, because we are accompanying the Nasi of the generation.Two excerpts from sichah of 10 Shevat 5717 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=04-02-2025

Chof-Alef Teves (19:07)

Chassidus Morning Class: This class was presented on Thursday, 16 Teves, 5785, January 16, 2025, Parshas Shemos, at Bais Medrash Ohr Chaim in Monsey, NY. This is the first class in a series on the discourse Basi Legani by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, presented at the Farbrengen of 10 Shevat 5725 (1965). This class explores the purpose of creation, how we revolutionize the world, what it takes to win the war against falsehood and darkness, and how the King splurges the most profound secrets and treasures to win the battle. We tell the story of the Rebbe explaining the game of chess to world chess champion Sam Reshevsky and how the Alter Rebbe assuaged the ire of Reb Pinchas of Koritz for spreading Chassidus. Why did the Vilna Gaon oppose Chassidus? What was the reason for the Baal Shem Tov revealing Chassidus?

Through the Baal Shem Tov's kindness and love, he helped create new Yiddishe communities. Find out how in this episode.

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 week I have three Baal Shem Tov stories for you, the first about how the Baal Shem Tov mistreats a Jew and bankrupts him and his family, the second about Reb Nochum of Chernobyl who is sent by the Baal Shem Tov to collect money for poor brides and the last about how the Baal Shem Tov makes a living. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/a-jew-never-stops-doing-what-they-started. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

00:00 Introduction 00:49 The Light of Moshe Rabbeinu01:54 Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and the Zohar03:58 The Teachings of the Arizal05:17 The Baal Shem Tov's Message06:38 Rabbi Nachman of Breslov's Legacy10:27 The Power of Gratitude17:14 The Heart and Trauma26:22 Gratitude in Good Times26:58 Lessons from Near Misses27:42 The Importance of Saying Thank You28:20 Challenges and Community29:30 Understanding the Role of a Gadol33:41 Physiological Reactions to Stress38:23 The Process of Birth and Spiritual Growth47:21 Embracing Challenges for Growth52:17 Final Reflections and Blessings

Unifying Light with Life. Ohr v'Chayus. The Alter Rebbe, the Arizal & the Baal Shem Tov. 19 Kislev --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ravpinsonpodcast/support

Discover how the Baal Shem Tov uplifted and encouraged the simple Yidden.

R' Shmuel BraunFinding Divine Gratitude: Rav Nachman's Teachings on Chanukah and Inner JoyThis episode is dedicated to Nes Yechaya bas Norah Chana and explores the deep teachings of Rav Nachman of Breslov on the significance of Chanukah and the concept of gratitude. Through the works of Kabbalah and Hasidic philosophy, the discussion delves into the profound levels of gratitude, highlighting the difference between will and pleasure, and the importance of recognizing and savoring joyful moments in life, as taught by the Baal Shem Tov and his successors. The script also ties in the relevance of Shabbos, the essence of Torah, and the mystical oil of Chanukah, ending with a thought-provoking connection to childbirth and the messianic future, emphasizing living with the recognition of every moment as an expression of God's unity and love.00:00 Introduction and Dedication00:11 Rav Nachman's Teachings on Chanukah and Gratitude01:28 Preface to Rav Nachman's Teachings: Kabbalah and Hasidic Philosophy03:48 The Concept of Sha'aShuei HaMelech06:36 Pleasure vs. Will: A Deeper Understanding08:57 Mindfulness and Gratitude: Lessons from Kurt Vonnegut11:44 Living with Emunah: The Teachings of the Baal Shem Tov14:36 The Essence of Shabbos and Messianic Living19:46 The Anxiety of the Week and the Tranquility of Shabbos22:44 Bringing Kedusha into the Mundane33:35 The Secret of Chanukah: Illuminating the Darkness37:37 Conclusion: The Birth of Mashiach Consciousness

The 300th episode! Unbelievable. This week I have two stories for you, the first is about an innkeeper who can't pay the rent and goes to Reb Elimelech of Lizhensk for help and the second about the Baal Shem Tov learning from a simple Jew what true faith in Hashem is. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/you-must-see-whats-after. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

This week I have three stories for you, the first is about a young Polish Jewish girl whose parents buy her a ticket to move to America in the early 1900s and her father begs her to keep Shabbos, the second about the brother in law of the Baal Shem Tov, Reb Gershon Kitover who wants to see a hidden Tzadik and the last about Rabbi Moshe Rosen asking the Lubavitcher Rebbe to let him retire at 70. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/the-hug-meant-to-last-a-lifetime. To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

There are times when a person feels like he is being pushed to his limits. He already experienced one difficulty, and then another was added, and then another. He feels like Hashem is picking on him, and he's having a very hard time understanding how Hashem could do this to him, especially since he learned about how much Hashem loves him. We must constantly remind ourselves that the only things that are valuable and eternal in this world is our service of Hashem. Everything else in this world is just a distraction. When someone is able to serve Hashem at a time of extreme difficulty, and continue trusting in Him that He's doing the best for him, that could accomplish what would normally take a person ten lifetimes to accomplish. Let us learn from one example in the Torah. The Zohar Hakadosh tells us there is nothing in the world that has the power to nullify a decree of death, plague, or sickness, like the Parasha of Akedat Yitzchak. Of course, this doesn't just mean reading the words, rather, it's understanding and internalizing them. What was so special about Akedat Yitzchak? Let us analyze for a moment some of the difficulties involved in this great test of Avraham Avinu. He was promised at the age of 70 a child that would take over his legacy and continue his life's mission. He then patiently waited for 30 years to have that child. He then invested all of his time and energy building up the child for 37 years, and then Hashem told him to sacrifice the child as a korban. On the surface level, it seems like a very cruel request, something beyond comprehension, coming from a loving and merciful God. Furthermore, Avraham was being asked to do something that he was preaching his whole life against. He would tell all of the idol worshippers that God didn't want them offering their children as sacrifices. Moreover, Hashem seemed to be contradicting what He already told Avraham, that Yitzchak would be the future of Klal Yisrael. It was such a difficult request that made no sense. Avraham could have had many questions here, yet he chose to trust Hashem and do the command with joy and zeal. The Sefat Emmet gives us a beautiful insight into how Avraham was able to overcome this monumental test. He said Avraham was a navi. He was able to see the future, that Moshe Rabbeinu and all of the greats throughout history were destined to come from Yitzchak. We know that every tzaddik brings so much nachat ruach to Hashem with his Torah and good deeds. With the Akedah, Hashem would be losing out on all of those greats. Hillel Hazaken, Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Yochanan, Rav and Shmuel, Abaye and Rava, the Rambam, Rashi, the Baal Shem Tov, the Gra, the Chafez Chaim, and so on. It must be that this one act of sacrifice was going to be greater than all the deeds of all of the greats throughout history combined. Avraham contemplated how special this was going to be for Hashem, and that's what gave him the chizuk, to do it with joy. And indeed, we are still benefiting today, thousands of years later from that one act. Avraham heroically passed the test and amazingly did not tell one person afterward what he did. He was purely L'Shem Shamayim. We only know about it because the Torah told us. Hashem put Avraham in the most difficult circumstance and asked him to do the incomprehensible. That is where all of Avraham's glory lies. Similarly, when a person finds himself in a very difficult situation in life, and it keeps getting more and more difficult to the point where he can't comprehend how Hashem could put him in such a situation, and he feels like he wants to turn the other way in anger and frustration, that is when he must give himself chizuk and say, if he is able to overcome this and continue serving Hashem with joy now, that could be more valuable than what he does for his entire life. One deed done under extreme difficulty is worth infinitely greater than deeds done under normal conditions. The greatest chesed that Hashem can give a person is the opportunity to earn an eternity of bliss. We are in this world on a mission, and Hashem who wants us to succeed always puts us in the exact circumstances we need to be in to achieve that success