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This week I have one long story for you. It's about Reb Adam Baal Shem of Ropshitz — one of the most powerful hidden masters of the generation before the Baal Shem Tov — and what he did when the king of Prague issued harsh decrees against the Jews. 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! Link to Two Cups of Tea, my first story video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3d48AFirymU Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/we-are-not-helpless 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 דוקא באותם דורות שבהם הי' מצב של יאוש וכו' נתגלו רזין דרזין דאורייתא (בתורת החסידות) עד לאנשים פשוטים. כי – היא הנותנת: מצד גודל אהבת הקב"ה לכאו"א מישראל – כידוע מאמר הבעש"ט שאהבת הקב"ה לכאו"א מישראל היא שלא בערך יותר מאהבת הורים זקנים לבנם יחידם שנולד להם לעת זקנותם – נותן ה' את ה"אבן יקרה" שבכתר המלך, רזין דרזין דאורייתא, כדי להציל על ידה את "בן המלך". וזה מתגלה ע"י תורת הבעש"ט והולך ומיתוסף מדור לדור. ומכיון שביאת המשיח תלוי' ב"יפוצו מעינותיך חוצה", הרי ככל שמתקרבים לביאת המשיח צריך להוסיף בזה ולהציל בכך בנו של הקב"ה ממות לחיים ממש. זהו רצון ה'! והכלי לזה הוא אהבה לכאו"א מישראל בלי הבדל, שהרי בכאו"א מהם ישנה נשמה שהיא חלק מאותו עצם, ודוקא עי"ז בנקל יותר לעורר את עצם הנשמה שלו ועד שזה יפעל על המחדו"מ שלו וכו'.משיחת יו"ד שבט ה'תש"כ [שנת המאתיים להסתלקות הבעש"ט] ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-06-2026 Synopsis The fact that the Jewish people were in a state of despair in later generations etc. is precisely why the deepest secrets of the Torah were revealed in this era (through the teachings of Chassidus), and even to simplest people: Out of His immense love for every single Jew (which is like the love of parents to an only child born to them in their old age, as the Baal Shem Tov taught), Hashem gives up the “precious stone from the royal crown” (the deepest secrets of the Torah) in order to save His child (the Jewish people). The precious gem is revealed through the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, and continues to increase from generation to generation. Since the coming of Moshiach depends upon “your wellsprings spreading outward,” therefore, the closer we get to the coming of Moshiach, the more we must add in spreading the wellsprings, which literally rescues Hashem's child from death to life. The vessel for this is to love every Jew without distinction, because all Jewish souls share the same essence, and loving another Jew makes it easier to awaken the essence of one's own soul, in a way that impacts him practically in thought, speech, and action.Excerpt from sichah of 10 Shevat 5720 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-06-2026
The Rebbe advises on gradually introducing a future son-in-law to Chassidus, emphasizing the father's responsibility in Torah education and including Chassidus as part of this obligation. He encourages finding suitable ways for this approach, especially in light of rabbinic teachings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/006/2049
The Rebbe thanks for the update on the students' studies, encourages more frequent public review of Chassidus, supports vocational training when appropriate, and stresses increasing Chassidus study among Moroccan students both in quantity and through their own initiative. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/008/2096
The Rebbe writes that while one must stand strong in defending Torah, mitzvos, and Chassidus, it is crucial to distinguish between opposing problematic issues and maintaining respectful conduct toward people. Even when disagreeing, care must be taken not to harm anyone's honor. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/008/2103
The Rebbe responds to a birthday notification, advising an aliyah to the Torah on Shabbos, giving charity before prayers, studying Chassidus in solitude, and reviewing the discourse with a group. He blesses the recipient with long life, Torah growth, and finding a good match. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/008/2097
The Rebbe responds to a letter about birthday observance on the second day of Shavuos, advising established customs such as reciting Tehillim, studying Chassidus, giving tzedakah before prayers, and wishing success in both spiritual and material matters. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/008/2116
The Rebbe writes to a young man on his birthday, encouraging him to accept an additional spiritual practice and to increase study in Chassidus. He also addresses overcoming negative thoughts by diverting attention and immersing oneself in Torah and prayer. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/007/2066
The Rebbe encourages the Nshei U'Bnos Chabad branch to utilize the days of Pesach to strengthen Yiddishkeit and Torah, especially in the teachings and customs of Chassidus. He emphasizes the special merit of righteous women in redemption and wishes them a kosher, joyous Pesach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/007/2075
The Rebbe acknowledges receipt of the letter about obtaining a driver's license and blesses the recipient with ample livelihood. He encourages setting times for both revealed Torah and Chassidus, guiding one's body and animal soul in line with Chassidic teachings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/007/2086
The Rebbe writes to Reb Shmuel about his upcoming journey to Eretz Yisrael, emphasizing the importance of spiritual preparation. He advises daily charity, study of Chassidus, and reflection before prayer, likening it to preparing for an audience with a king. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/006/2060
The Rebbe explains that it is not appropriate to express thanks for a mitzvah, as the reward of a mitzvah is the mitzvah itself. He encourages publishing Chassidic teachings in Italian and discusses details regarding printing and distribution, as well as other communal matters. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2024
The Rebbe addresses a correspondent's lack of business success, highlighting the importance of following his predecessor's guidance to first arrange a good marriage and then engage in business. He explains that true blessing comes through one's wife and encourages increased Torah and Chassidus study. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2009
The Rebbe clarifies that the main purpose of Agudas Chabad and Tzeirei Aguch is spreading Chassidus, its ways, and customs. Due to current circumstances, they must also strengthen general Judaism and public Torah study. Leadership should be responsible and adapt to local needs. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/008/2106
The Rebbe writes about the unique mitzvah each Jew has, emphasizing that for some, it is to inspire others and bring them closer to their Father in Heaven through the light of Chassidus. He encourages diligence in this mission, noting its impact on both spiritual and material blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2017
The Rebbe thanks the recipient for sending copies of letters and urges continued effort in collecting and forwarding Chabad Chassidus excerpts from Eretz Yisrael. He inquires about progress on editing Beis Rebbe in Hebrew, emphasizing the importance of including additional stories and material. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2010
The letter reflects on Yud Shevat, the yahrzeit of the Previous Rebbe, highlighting his self-sacrifice for guiding Jews in the pillars of Chassidus. The writer acknowledges the recipient's support in education and blesses him with success in communal and personal matters. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2008
The Rebbe writes to Reb Peretz about fulfilling one's mission in this world with peace of mind and body. He connects this to the merit of Chassidus and the birthday, blessing him with long life, success, and the spreading of Torah and Chassidus. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2022
The Rebbe encourages setting fixed times for learning Chassidus, emphasizing both consistency and internal commitment. He advises sharing Chassidus with others, checking mezuzos, giving charity before Shabbos, and maintaining three daily study sessions for spiritual growth and blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2011
The Rebbe writes about the immense merit in teaching Tanya, likening it to the Written Torah of Chabad Chassidus. He encourages teaching according to one's understanding, emphasizing that everyone has a place in its study and blessing the teacher and participants with success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2020
The Rebbe thanks the writer for sharing memories of the Rebbe Maharash and encourages him to use his influence to inspire others in Chassidus, especially Chabad. He emphasizes that sincere words always have an effect and blesses him with health and success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/005/2004
The Rebbe addresses educational approaches for Moroccan students in yeshiva, emphasizing the need to increase kindness and minimize strictness. He discusses methods for encouraging Torah and Chassidus study, the importance of positive influence, and adapting teaching to students' backgrounds. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/004/1970
The Rebbe writes about the importance of organizing farbrengen duties and distributing physical tasks among women to foster unity. He also encourages communal participation in mikveh expenses and stresses increasing study in Chassidus, especially around Shavuos. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/008/2114
The Rebbe expresses pleasure at the addition of source references in the recipient's book, noting it encourages deeper study. He suggests creating an index of topics from all the books to make it easier for readers to find specific subjects in Chassidus and teachings of Chassidic leaders. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/009/2142
The Rebbe addresses concerns about feeling diminished through teaching others Torah, explaining that such feelings are the work of the yetzer hara. He encourages continued involvement in communal needs, regular study of Chassidus, and learning with joy despite initial difficulties. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/012/2219
The Rebbe expresses concern over the recipient's son leaving a yeshiva where Chassidus is studied, emphasizing the necessity of learning the inner dimension of Torah in this generation. He urges that being in an environment conducive to such study is crucial for spiritual success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/009/2126
The Rebbe writes about the importance of uplifting students, emphasizing their mission to spread the light of Chassidus wherever they are. He urges mobilizing all resources and people under one's influence to expand the reach and impact of Torah and Chassidus, especially in Europe. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/008/002/2278
The Rebbe addresses whether to enter Tomchei Temimim in Lod immediately or delay for further study, emphasizing that Torah study—especially Chassidus—should not be postponed. He encourages immediate enrollment if accepted and highlights the spiritual benefits of learning both Nigleh and Chassidus. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/008/002/2260
The Rebbe writes that leaving Eretz Yisrael is permitted for Torah study only if the learning truly qualifies as Torah study according to halachah and Chassidus. He urges the recipient to ensure his learning meets this standard and blesses him with success in his journey and studies. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/008/002/2257
The Rebbe writes that the proposed rabbinic position is appropriate, but due to concerns about negative environmental influence, one should increase study in both revealed Torah and Chassidus. This will help withstand challenges, especially imagined ones, and positively impact the surroundings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/008/002/2252
The Rebbe writes that with proper attention to each student's nature and a balanced approach of firmness and pleasantness, one will succeed in teaching. He encourages maintaining regular study in Nigleh and Chassidus, and assures blessings for both material and spiritual success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/008/002/2261
The Rebbe expresses deep sympathy for the recipient's loss of his wife, sharing a story about the tzt"z and the importance of bringing comfort from thought into action. He encourages finding strength in Torah study, especially Chassidus, and offers blessings for a good year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/012/2216
The Rebbe addresses concerns about studying Chassidus, clarifying that it is not the study of Kabbalah and dispelling any fears. He encourages learning specific texts and explains that such study is essential and divinely ordained for this generation. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/012/2230
The Rebbe writes that sending a pan (petitionary note) is a sign of learning or beginning to learn Chabad Chassidus, which is for every Jew. He encourages spreading this study to one's surroundings and blesses the recipient for a good and sweet new year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/012/2236
The Rebbe outlines birthday customs, including aliyah to the Torah, giving tzedakah, and studying Chassidus. For those who merited a private audience (yechidus) with the Rebbe Rayatz, he advises reflecting deeply on that encounter and then learning from his teachings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/012/2226
The Rebbe explains why the teachings of Chassidus are called 'Chassidus,' emphasizing that the name reflects its purpose, similar to how 'Torah' describes its function. He also expresses concern about delays in sending Kehot books to Eretz Yisrael before Elul and Tishrei. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/011/2187
The Rebbe addresses the practice of publishing booklets dedicated to Torah innovations primarily from students, with rare contributions from faculty. He encourages including a Chassidus discourse in each issue and offers guidance on collaboration and discretion in publication. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/011/2192
The Rebbe outlines birthday customs such as aliyah, charity, and learning Chassidus. He addresses the question of donning Tefillin Rabeinu Tam, explaining it depends on one's knowledge of Chassidus and advises consulting one's mashpia for further guidance. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/011/2210
The Rebbe encourages perseverance in public study of Chassidus despite opposition, explaining such challenges are tests of resolve. He addresses the recipient's question about prayer timing, advising to prioritize proper preparation and intention, even if it means changing previous habits. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/010/2182
The Rebbe addresses the suggestion to completely nullify kollel activities, explaining that breaking another's involvement in permissible matters is not desirable. He encourages increased Torah and Chassidus study and urges the resumption of public Chassidus review by senior students. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/010/2170
The Rebbe encourages using gatherings, especially on special days, to inspire love of G-d, Torah, and fellow Jews. He stresses the importance of moving beyond one's limited circle to spread Chassidus among all Jewish groups, particularly through public farbrengens involving diverse youth. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/010/2183
The Rebbe addresses a correspondent's wish to be connected but not a chassid, explaining the true meaning of being a chassid and why learning Chassidus is necessary for those to whom it is revealed. He emphasizes that every generation has its unique spiritual needs and challenges. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/009/2136
The Rebbe addresses the importance of referencing teachings from Chassidus and Kabbalah when discussing core Torah principles, especially now that these teachings are widely accessible. He cautions against quoting controversial books, as this may inadvertently legitimize them for readers. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/009/2150
This week I have three stories for you for Gimel Tamuz, the yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. The first is about an unexpected encounter between Rabbi Tuvia Bolton and a traffic policeman. The second is about a Jewish soldier in the Korean War and the Lubavitcher Rebbe's tefillin. And the third is about a woman in Meah Shearim who couldn't stop smoking on 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/smoking-on-shabbos 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
May Hashem Find His Power: ”How Moshe Brought Healing to the Lowest" SpacesThis is the fifth class in a series on the discourse "V'atah Yigdal Na Koach Adnai," presented by the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Schnuer Zalman of Liadi, on Shabbos Shlach, 28 Sivan, 5566, June 14, 1806, published in Likkutei Torah Shlach. This class was presented by Rabbi YY Jacobson on Monday, Parshas Korach, 30 Sivan, 5786, June 15, 2026, at Bais Medrash Ohr Chaim in Monsey, NY.View Source Sheets: https://portal.theyeshiva.net/api/source-sheets/9940
28 Sivan: 3 Tammuz. Chapter 33.04: Rejoicing in G-d's Great Joy in Creating a Unified Home.A journey into the deepest teachings of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.The Tanya Applied radio show is broadcast every Saturday night, 10–10:30PM ET onWSNR 620 AM – Metro NY areaWJPR 1640 AM — Highland Park and Edison, NJOnline: www.talklinenetwork.comBy phone: Listen Line: 641-741-0389Many of us may be familiar with some of the central ideas in Tanya – including the battle of the two souls; what defines man and makes us tick; how we can control our temptations; how we can become more loving; what we can do to curb and harness our vices, like anger, jealousy, and depression; the formula for growth; how we can develop a healthy relationship with G-d; and why we are here. In this 30-minute program, you will learn how these ideas can be applied to your life today. You will discover secrets to a successful life that will transform you and your relationships.Rabbi Simon Jacobson is the best-selling author of Toward a Meaningful Life, and he is the creator of the acclaimed and popular MyLife: Chassidus Applied series, which has empowered and transformed hundreds of thousands through Torah and Chassidus.Now, Rabbi Jacobson brings his vast scholarship and years of experience to Tanya. Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson for this exhilarating journey into your psyche and soul. You will come away with life-changing practical guidance and direction, addressing all the issues and challenges you face in life.For more info: www.chassidusapplied.com/tanyaMusic by Zalman Goldstein • www.ChabadMusic.coms of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.A journey into the deepest teachings of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.
This week I have three stories for you. The first is about Reb Menachem Mendel of Kosov, who stops a wealthy traveler on the road and asks him for money — not for himself, but for reasons the traveler doesn't yet understand. The second is about the Trisker Maggid, whose chassidim knew he never really slept — and about a skeptic who decided to find out the truth for himself. The third is about Rabbi Reuven Grozovsky, a great Rosh Yeshivah who had one lifelong practice he never broke — until the morning a young, embarrassed student came to help him. 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/no-one-knows-what-tomorrow-may-bring 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
Have We Deprived a Generation of EXPERIENCING Yiddishkeit & Chassidus?This is the third class in a series on the discourse "V'atah Yigdal Na Koach Adnai," presented by the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Schnuer Zalman of Liadi, on Shabbos Shlach, 28 Sivan, 5566, June 14, 1806, published in Likkutei Torah Shlach. Rabbi YY Jacobson gave the class on Monday, Parshas Shlach, 23 Sivan, 5786, June 8, 2026, at Bais Medrash Ohr Chaim in Monsey, NY. The class focused on a letter Rabbi YY received from a Yeshiva boy lamenting how so many youth experience Judaism and Chassidus as something that can't really resonate with their most authentic selves; for it to be true, it must be miserable. He addressed the proper way to communicate Judaism, Chassidus, and Tanya, igniting a fire in the eyes of our students and children. The class explores the concepts in Tanya of "the mind ruling the heart," and "pushing away your feelings and cravings with two hands," as well as the "banuni," not focusing on emotions, but on thoughts, words, and actions.View Source Sheets: https://portal.theyeshiva.net/api/source-sheets/9932