A Jew who supervises the kashrut status of a kosher establishment
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Perspective, the key to success in your life's mission.
Its time we all take a good hard look at ourselves and be HONEST about where we are holding.
"If someone tells you there is Torah by the Goyim don't believe them. If they tell you there is wisdom by the Goyim, believe them." What is this wisdom and does it originate from the Torah or is it something else entirely?
The secret of Torah is the actual "magic" contained within which simultaneously changes a person while granting them their deepest desires.
We are Torah. And Torah is us.
How and why proper "self-love" is not just healthy but also the path to true emunah in Hashem.
Although widely accepted nowadays, the Zohar's acceptance came along with more controversy than you might expect.
In the classic song of Bar Yochai there is a line which translates to "when Hashem thought to make Man, he envisioned you (Rebbi Shimon)"—what was it about Rebbi Shimon Bar Yochai which made him worthy of such a compliment?
The true definition of the word "kadosh" is "separate" (as opposed to "holy"). This begs the question, whats so special about being separate?
A relationship can be based upon many different things but if you want it to endure there is one thing which reigns supreme.
Why Lashon Hara is one of the only "aveiros" which cause a negative physical response.
The talmidim of Rabbi Akiva seem to have really loved one another, so why was it such a big deal that they didnt respect each other?
Welcome to our daily Bitachon series. We're talking about living Yetziat Mitzrayim every day of our lives. As we say in Haggadah shel Pesach , Kol Yemei chayecha / All the days of your life. There was a great Ba'al Musar named Rav Yechezkel Levenstein. He was the Mashgiach of the Mirrer Yeshiva in Europe, and later of the Mirrer Yeshiva in America, and finally of the Ponevezh Yeshiva in Eretz Yisrael . He was one of the greatest Baalei Emunah of his generation, one of the greatest believers of his generation. And he based it all on constantly strengthening his belief in Yetziat Mitzrayim and living with it in a very, very real way every single day. So much so, that at his funeral, Rav Wolbe eulogized him saying, " We just lost the last person to leave Egypt." That sounds strange. We left Egypt in the year 2448. Rav Levenstein passed away in the year 5734. That's thousands of years. He wasn't a thousand years old! What Rav Wolbe meant to say is, in every generation you have to feel like you left. And Rav Levenstein was from the last of the people that really felt that way. He lived like he himself left. So at least during this time of the year, as we just marched out of Egypt and we're on our way to Har Sinai , we should still be in that state of mind. An example of this mindset is revealed in a story told about Chacham Avraham Ades, the grandfather of Chacham Yehuda Ades Shlita , Rosh Yeshiva of Kol Yaakov. He lived in Aleppo in the days when you didn't get a taxi ride, you got a donkey or camel ride through the desert. Rav Avraham was once waiting for a donkey to hire. He ended up hiring a Jewish donkey rider. But certain mafia- like Muslim donkey riders felt they owned that turf and were upset that a Jewish donkey rider was giving the rabbi a ride rather than one of them, not unlike today in different industries where people control the industry. One of these Muslim ruffians threatened the Rabbi, saying, " Wait until you get to the desert where no one's looking. Then you'll see what I'll do to you! " And what was Rabbi Ades's response Although this didn't necessarily happen during Pesach season, he replied, " God that took our forefathers through Egypt will protect me and watch over me. His outstretched hand is larger than your hand." He was full of courage and did not feel at all threatened. Sure enough, in the middle of the desert, when the Muslim driver bent down to pick something up, his donkey kicked him in the side and broke his ribs. He cried the rest of the way home, begging the rabbi for forgiveness. The lesson of the story is Rabbi Ades's immediate answer… God that took me out of Egypt. That was his feeling. Ke'ilu hu yatza / Like you got out. It's an event that happened to me . That's what's supposed to be on our minds. Who is Hashem? Hashem that took me out of Egypt. The biggest proof to this understanding is how Hashem introduced Himself to us the first time He spoke to us as a nation: " Anochi Hashem Elokecha Asher Hotzeticha Me'eretz Mitzrayim / I am Hashem your God that took you out of Egypt ." All the Rishonim ask, Why doesn't it say, "I am Hashem that created the world? Isn't that a seemingly greater feat?" We see from here that, no, creation is not enough to give us the Emunah and the understanding of Hashem. We have to have Yetziat Mitzrayim lenses on. We have to have the lens of getting out of Egypt. According to Rambam's list, Mitzvah number one, is to believe in the existence of God as is stated, Anochi Hashem Elokecha asher hotzeticha me'eretz Mitzraim / I am Hashem your God that took you out of Egypt . The more that I understand Hashem that took me out of Egypt, the more faith I have in Hashem, in His ability, in His power, in His control, in His supervision. That all came from Yetziat Mitzrayim . We have to live with that every single day of our lives. As the Rosh says in the Sefer Orchot Chaim , If you don't believe in, Asher Hotzeticha Me'eretz Mitzrayim, if you don't believe in the concept that God took us out of Egypt, with all those lessons, you don't believe in God. Because without that piece, it's not the God of the Jewish people. The Muslims believe in God, the Christians believe in God. But belief in the God of the Jews , is predicated on understanding Yetziat Mitzrayim . And as we've mentioned before, the Rabbis set it up in our daily prayers. Every Shahachrit prayer is full of Yetziat Mitzrayim . Keriat Yam Suf , Ga'al Yisrael . And as Rashi in Berachot quotes from the Yerushalmi , the way we prepare to pray every day is by bringing God down, by knocking on the door through talking about Yetziat Mitzrayim . I can't pray to God without wearing the lens of Yetziat Mitzrayim. Because Who am I asking? Who is this God? What can He do? How has He proven Himself? The credentials of God are Yetziat Mitzrayim . We read His diploma, so to say, every single day, before we ask Him. It's like when you walk into the doctor's office, and want to check out the diplomas on his wall before you ask him his opinion on a condition. That's what we do every single day. We read the diploma of Yetziat Mitzrayim, to have the proper lens and understanding of our Creator.
Seder night is truly a magical time but how does one overcome any stress and harness that "magic" to connect with their children, their spouse, and Hashem?
How structure defines one's values and why this is the essence of Torah.
So much of the Mishkan's beauty was totally hidden, this is not accidental but rather intentionally done and there is a major lesson we can learn from it.
Bein Hazmanim is not an "all or nothing" experience. Rabbi Stark explains what a successful Bein Hazmanim actually looks like, and how to achieve one.
Episode 143: The AHM crew is joined by Rabbi Gav Bellino, who comes prepared for Purim in a very special (and on-brand!) costume. Click here for Moshiach Energy Merch! Send us Modi Mail!118A Orchard St.PMB #208New York, NY 10002Modi's special "Know Your Audience" is available on YouTube now!For all upcoming shows visit www.modilive.com.Follow Modi on Instagram at @modi_live.Send us a textSupport the show
The secret to the Jewish people is that Hashem NEEDS us—and we NEED each other.
Taanis Esther is one of many fasts we keep, but something feels different about it compared to all other fasts. Rabbi Stark dives into the mystery of, and reason for, Taanis Esther.
The secret to Hashem's unbridled love for Klal Yisroel is the fact that He is "sameach b'chelki." The Mashgiach explains what that actually means.
A deep dive into Haman's conveniently warped view of the Jews.
In this episode of Shtark Tank, Rabbi Dr. Yosef Lynn joins us for a deep dive into the intersection of Mussar and Positive Psychology, and how these ideas can transform both personal and professional growth. As the Mashgiach of Machon Yaakov, Rabbi Lynn has dedicated his career to helping Bnei Torah integrate their learning into the workforce while maintaining their spiritual aspirations. He shares how understanding personal strengths, structuring learning effectively, and taking a proactive approach to marriage and career can unlock success and fulfillment.We also explore how organizations can foster healthier environments, the role of exercise in personal well-being, and practical strategies for overcoming digital distractions in today's workplace.You can check out his website, and connect with Rabbi Dr. Yosef Lynn on LinkedInYou can also check out his books: Nurture Their Nature: The Torah's Essential Guidance for Parents and Teachers Not A Partnership: Why We Keep Getting Marriage Wrong & How We Can Get It RightKey Topics Discussed: Machon Yaakov's Mission: How the yeshiva is designed to prepare students for success in both Torah and the workforce. Strength-Based Growth: Why identifying and leveraging your natural strengths is the key to thriving in all areas of life. Torah Learning That Works for You: Customizing your learning style and subject matter to maximize engagement and connection. Marriage & Family: The real definition of a healthy marriage (hint: it's not a partnership) and practical strategies for nurturing relationships amidst a busy life. Career Development: The importance of finding the right role rather than just focusing on job titles. Physical & Mental Well-Being: Why exercise isn't just a luxury but a necessity for high performance. Managing Technology: Strategies for staying present and minimizing distractions in an always-on world. Organizational Health: How company culture and team dynamics impact long-term success.Join Our Whatsapp Group! If you enjoy Shtark Tank, you don't want to miss our Quiet Whatsapp group, which includes updates, exclusive bonus content and more. You will also get the chance to submit questions for the show itself. Click Here to join.Additional Content is also available at shtarktank.org
Partying, eating meat, and drinking wine is fun and all but true "simcha" is the only thing which can keep one out of a state of deep depression.
The Mashgiach explains how 1 and 10 are really two sides of the same coin and how the journey from 1 to 10 actually bring "everything" full circle.
What was greater, the miracle of Kriyas Yam Suf or Klal Yisroel signing Az Yashir?
Unlock the secrets of negotiation and family unity rooted in the timeless wisdom of Judaism. Ever wondered how spirituality can transform from a solitary pursuit into a communal celebration? Join us as we reveal the profound lessons from the story of Moshe and Pharaoh, highlighting how engaging the entire family in spiritual practices creates a joyous and fulfilling religious experience. Through the wisdom of the esteemed Mashgiach, Rav Matis Yohu Solomon Zechon Levracha, discover how authenticity and enthusiasm in religious observance can inspire future generations to cherish their Jewish heritage.This episode is a treasure trove for parents aiming to enrich their children's spiritual lives and anyone eager to understand the essence of Jewish celebrations. We explore how treating Judaism as a genuine festival can foster a passionate, growth-oriented community. Through lively narratives and insightful reflections, see why embracing Jewish values with heartfelt joy is pivotal in nurturing a spiritually satisfying life for both young and old. Tune in to uncover how genuine passion transforms religious duties into uplifting family traditions.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
Rabbi Stark explains the significance of the number ten and why Hashem brought exactly ten makkos.
Ultimately, being a person who has hakaras hatov brings you closer to Hashem.
During these weeks of Shovavim, the Mashgiach talks about how one can ensure a healthy home for themselves.
The Bnei Yisroel were redeemed from Mitzrayim because they maintained their "Jewish Identity"—but weren't they simultaneously worshipping Avodah Zarah??
Many people fail to recognize the good because they feel doing so negatively effects how they are perceived. Such people could not be more wrong.
Rabbi Stark speaks about the "mehalech" and greatness of his rebbi, Rav Moshe Shapiro.
Parshat Vayigash: The Ohr Hachaim Hakadosh and the Sefardim!!? Why did the mashgiach missed the train?!?! Do I have to give Tzedaka to fakes???
What the Greeks failed to realize is that everything IS Torah.
The difference between the Avos and the Shevatim.
The mental gymnastics we do just do deny what others do for us.
How Yaakov differentiated himself from everyone (including the rest of the avos)
Hakaras hatov is not about the one being thanked, its about the one DOING the thanking!
Now that we understand how Yaakov is the synthesis of the middos of Avraham and Yitzchak, the questions is how does one practically apply this concept.
More than just recognizing the good, one must also realize how indebted they ought to feel.
Avraham represents chessed and Yitzchak represents din. Yaakov though is the total integration of both of these middos and how they need to be properly balanced.
We have all heard about the concept of Hakaras HaTov but do we know that is is MUCH more than merely saying thanks?
During these parshiyos, where we discuss the avos and their introduction of tefilah, the Mashgiach explains that the connection goes much deeper than you may think.
The idea of Yeshiva is not limited to a physical location but rather it is a way of life.
Yitzchak is mentioned the least of all of the avos in the Torah, but that is precisely the trait which Yitzchak embodied.
We all know what a "Yeshiva" is, but does anyone actually know what "yeshiva" means?
The difference between Chessed and Rachamim and how understanding Avraham's Chessed helps one to know Hashem.
During the long winter is precisely when one needs to understand the value of perseverance and to not quit at the first sight of disinterest.