Podcasts about Neshama

What does it actually look like to internalize the identity of the soul as our own? To approach our own reflection with a deep understanding of our essence, of the way it does not hinge on anything but the piece of G-d inside? In this episode, Shterna Ginsberg explores how to stop depending on others for your sense of self and find the infinite worth that lies within.|| To find more of Shterna's work, visit www.energizedliving.org. To sponsor an episode, please visit humanandholy.com/sponsor or email us at humanandholy@gmail.com.Human & Holy is currently on a season break. This episode originally aired in June 2022. * * * * * * *To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at info@humanandholy.comTo support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.* * * * * * *TIMESTAMPS0:00 - The Search for Sense of Self0:36 - Meet Shterna Ginsberg1:47 - What is the Neshama? 2:59 - Roots vs. Fruits: Why We Miss Our Essence4:34 - The Self-Care Problem: No Self to Care For6:09 - How to Bridge Concept to Experience7:21 - Hidden Hashem in a "Realistic" World8:07 - Power Dynamics: Who Controls Your Life?10:57 - Healthy vs. Unhealthy Dependency11:48 - The Inner Island of Love & Dignity13:41 - The Bell Story: Faith Must Be Practiced16:08 - Chochma, Bina, Das: Three Steps to Integration18:32 - Dealing with Inner Resistance & Toxic Self-Talk19:29 - Setting Up Your Internal "Fire Department"20:45 - The Shaitel Story: Practical Soul Identity22:37 - Essence vs. Personality: What's Really You?25:40 - "Just Be Nice"26:38 - No Excuses for Not Shining Your Light28:18 - Marriage Without a Self: The Dangerous Dynamic30:14 - "I'll Give You Everything for a Sense of Self"32:40 - Parenting from Wholeness vs. Neediness34:16 - The Apple Story: When Identity Depends on Details36:10 - Unconditional Love Requires Soul-Centered Identity38:21 - Root of All Problems40:45 - "You Are Worthy" - Empty vs. Soul-Based Truth43:08 - The Virtual Reality Experiment46:27 - Living in Hashem's Reality vs. Virtual Reality48:44 - Breaking Through the Barrier50:35 - Practical Integration: Using Daily Mitzvos52:28 - The Bell System: Connecting Dots in Your Day54:04 - Who Is the Self?

The Beracha of "Elokai Neshama" which we recite each morning is unique in that it does not begin with the word "Baruch." Normally, all Berachot begin with "Baruch," except in the case of a "Beracha Ha'semucha La'haveratah" – a Beracha that is instituted to be recited immediately after another Beracha. In the Amida, for example, the first Beracha begins with "Baruch," but all the subsequent Berachot do not, because they are recited immediately after the first Beracha and are thus "covered" by the "Baruch" at the beginning of the first Beracha. Seemingly, then, the Beracha of "Elokai Neshama," which is not part of a series of Berachot, should begin with the word "Baruch." There were some opinions who explained that this Beracha does not begin with "Baruch" because it is supposed to be recited immediately after the recitation of "Asher Yasar" in the morning. The "Baruch" at the beginning of "Asher Yasar" suffices also for "Elokai Neshama," and thus the introductory word "Baruch" is not required at the beginning of this Beracha. According to this view, one must ensure to recite "Elokai Neshama" immediately after "Asher Yasar" each morning, as "Elokai Neshama" was instituted to be recited after "Asher Yasar." However, Hacham Ovadia writes in his work Halichot Olam that this view is not accepted as Halacha. The reason why "Elokai Neshama" does not begin with the word "Baruch" is that a Birkat Hoda'a – a blessing which expresses thanks to the Almighty – differs from other Berachot in that it does not need to begin with the word "Baruch." As such, one is not required to recite "Elokai Neshama" immediately after "Asher Yasar." Nevertheless, the Poskim write that since in any event we must recite both these Berachot each morning, it is preferable to recite "Elokai Neshama" immediately after "Asher Yasar" in order to satisfy all opinions. Summary: Strictly speaking, one is not required to recite the Beracha of "Elokai Neshama" in the morning immediately after "Asher Yasar." However, as some Poskim maintained that this sequence should be followed, it is preferable to do so, since in any event they must both be recited each morning.

We are to begin our day, each day of our lives, by expressing our gratitude to Hashem for all the blessings He has granted us. Immediately upon awakening, we recite "Modeh Ani," thanking Hashem for restoring our souls, and we are then required to recite a series of Berachot known as "Birkot Ha'shahar" – the morning blessings. These Berachot thank Hashem for our ability to open our eyes to see, the ability to get out of bed and walk, and other basic functions of the body. They also thank Hashem for spiritual blessings, such as His having chosen us and given us the Torah. As parents, we know how much it means when a child expresses gratitude. The more our children acknowledge what we do for them and thank us, the more we want to do for them. But when children act ungratefully, and do not thank their parents, the parents will be less inclined to give them what they want. We are Hashem's children, and we owe Him an enormous debt of gratitude for the countless blessings He gives us each day, starting with life itself. The more we thank Him for the blessings we have received, the more He will continue blessing us. We therefore thank Hashem each morning for some of the precious gifts that He has given us. Rav Natrunai Gaon (9 th century, Babylonia) traces the origins of the Birkot Ha'shahar to the obligation to recite one hundred Berachot each day. This obligation was taught as a "Halacha Le'Moshe Mi'Sinai" – a law that Moshe heard at Mount Sinai and has since been transmitted orally from one generation to the next. In ancient times, there were no fixed Berachot, and everyone was expected to recite Berachot on his own, until reaching a total of one hundred each day. However, without a fixed text of Berachot, and without specific Berachot required at certain times and on certain occasions, people became lax, and failed to recite the obligatory one hundred Berachot. In fact, the Midrash relates that when a devastating plague ravaged the Jewish Nation during the time of King David, killing one hundred people a day, King David determined that this was caused by the people's failure to fulfill this obligation of reciting one hundred Berachot every day. He therefore issued an edict to ensure that people recite the required number of Berachot, and the plague suddenly stopped. Still, this obligation was not always fulfilled. Therefore, the Ansheh Kenesset Ha'gedola (Men of the Great Assembly), a group of scholars and prophets that was formed at the beginning of the Second Commonwealth, established fixed Berachot that we are required to recite every day, thus ensuring that we recite one hundred blessings over the course of the day. Included in these Berachot are the eighteen Birkot Ha'shahar that we must recite each morning. Indeed, the Shulhan Aruch discusses the Birkot Ha'shahar in the same Siman (chapter) in which he mentions the obligation to recite one hundred Berachot each day – indicating that, as Rav Natrunai Gaon explained, the Birkot Ha'shahar are related to this obligation. They were instituted to help ensure that a person recites the required amount of Berachot every day. As mentioned earlier, underlying the requirement of Birkot Ha'shahar is our debt of gratitude to Hashem. Not surprisingly, we find a close connection between the obligation to recite one hundred Berachot each day and the concept of gratitude. First, the 100 th chapter of Tehillim is the chapter "Mizmor Le'toda" – the song which was sung to express gratitude to Hashem, thus establishing an association between the number 100 and gratitude. And, the first two letters of the word "Modim" ("We thank") are Mem and Vav, which together in Gematria equal 46 – the Siman in the Shulhan Aruch that speaks of the obligation of one hundred Berachot. We might wonder, why is it necessary to recite these Berachot each and every day? Why does it not suffice for us to occasionally praise and thank Hashem for all He gives us and does for us? An important answer to this question is offered by the Rashba (Rav Shlomo Ben Aderet, Barcelona, Spain, 1235-1310). He writes that every morning, we must see ourselves as born anew. As the verse says (Echa 3:23), "Hadashim La'bekarim, Rabba Emunatecha" – G-d performs great kindnesses for us each and every morning by restoring our consciousness, by giving us a new day, showing us His trust in our capacity to achieve and accomplish. Yesterday's blessings do not suffice today, because today we have been created anew, and so we must express gratitude to G-d anew. The Berachot that comprise Birkot Ha'shahar thank Hashem for many things – such as our vision, our ability to stand up straight and walk, our clothing, our having been chosen by Hashem – but does not appear to be exhaustive. Rav Haim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868) raised the question of why the Sages did not institute a Beracha thanking Hashem for the ability to speak. It goes without saying that the faculty of speech is one of the human being's most important capabilities. In fact, the Torah says that when G-d created Adam, He infused within Him "Nishmat Haim" – "a living soul" (Bereshit 2:7), and Targum Onkelos translates this expression to mean "Ru'ah Memalela" – "a spirit that speaks." The power of speech can be said to be our defining characteristic, the quality that distinguishes the human being from other creatures in the animal kingdom. Why, then, do we not have a special blessing thanking Hashem for this most precious gift? An answer to this question appears in the work Petah Ha'debir by Rav Binyamin Pontremoli (Turkey, d. 1784). He notes the aforementioned verse, and Onkelos' translation, which teaches us that the faculty of speech is a function of the Neshama, the human soul. Now the Sages instituted as one of the Birkot Ha'shahar a special Beracha thanking Hashem for the soul which He has given us – the blessing of "Elokai Neshama." Hence, as the ability to speak stems from the Neshama, this Beracha which thanks Hashem for giving us our soul also thanks Hashem for the power of speech. (It would thus seem that if parents have a child who, G-d forbid, is not developing the ability to speak, or struggles with speech issues, they should have special intention when reciting the Beracha of "Elokai Neshama," and have in mind the child's soul through which they wish that he develop the faculty of speech.) Moreover, Rav David Abudarham (Spain, 14 th century), in explaining the Beracha of "Elokai Neshama," cites the verse in Tehillim (115:17), "Lo Ha'metim Yehalelu Y-ah" – "It is not the dead that will praise G-d." Once a person's soul is taken, he is no longer able to express Hashem's praises. Rav Abudarham notes the implication of this verse that the primary purpose of speech is to praise G-d. (This is indicated in the text of "Elokai Neshama," in which we say, "As long as the soul is within me, I give thanks before You…") Accordingly, it stands to reason that when we recite "Elokai Neshama" and give thanks to Hashem for giving us a soul, this includes an expression of gratitude for our ability to speak. A second answer to this question was offered by Rav Shmuel Alexander Unsdorfer (1920-2002), who explained that we express gratitude for the faculty of speech by reciting Birkat Ha'Torah – the blessing over Torah learning. The Misva of learning Torah includes the obligation to speak words of Torah and to transmit them to others, and so when we thank Hashem for this precious Misva, we automatically thank Him also for the gift of speech. A different question was asked regarding the omission of the faculty of hearing from the Birkot Ha'shahar. Clearly, our hearing is exceedingly important. In fact, if somebody injured another person and caused him to lose his hearing, he must pay compensation for the damages. Why, then, is this capability not included in our morning blessings? One answer given is that the ability to hear is included in the Beracha of "Ha'noten La'sechvi Bina Le'havhin Ben Yom U'ben Layla" – thanking Hashem for granting the rooster the knowledge to crow in the morning, thus waking people up. Of course, the rooster's crow is effective in waking people only because of the ability to hear, and so this Beracha implicitly expresses gratitude for the sense of hearing. Another answer is that the morning blessings thank Hashem only for those abilities which we lost, as it were, during the night when we slept, and were restored in the morning. Thus, for example, we thank Hashem for restoring our vision after our eyes were closed throughout the night, and for allowing us to get out of bed, stand upright and walk, after we spent the night lying down. Our sense of hearing, however, is unaffected by sleep; we can still hear while sleeping, and so this capability is not included in Birkot Ha'shahar. (Interestingly, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), in his work Mi'kavse'el, cites a Rabbi who wanted to apply this theory to explain why we do not recite a Beracha over the ability to speak. This Rabbi noted that some people talk in their sleep, and so this capability is not technically "lost" at night, such that we should give thanks for it when we wake up in the morning. The Ben Ish Hai dismissed this answer, noting that some people sleepwalk, and yet we still recite each morning the Beracha of "Ha'mechin Mis'adeh Gaber," thanking Hashem for the ability to walk. One might, however, distinguish between talking in one's sleep and sleepwalking, as a person who sleepwalks is not actually sleeping as he walks, whereas those who talk in their sleep really are still asleep and have not woken up to talk.) The Sefer Hasidim (Rabbenu Yehuda Ha'hasid, Germany, 1150-1217) writes that he once met an exceptionally pious individual who recited additional blessings each morning, thanking Hashem for each and every part of the body, and the Sefer Hasidim expressed great admiration for this practice. He noted the verse in Tehillim (84:3), "Libi U'bsari Yeranenu El Kel Hai" – "My heart and my flesh shall sing praise to the living G-d" – implying that each and every part of the body which functions properly is a sufficient reason to give praise to Hashem. A different verse in Tehillim (35:10) states, "Kol Asmotai Tomarna, Hashem Mi Kamocha" – "All my bones shall declare: G-d, who is like you?" Indeed, it is worthwhile to express our gratitude to the Almighty for each and every limb and organ in the body. The Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806), in his commentary to Sefer Hasidim, asserts that this righteous man could not have actually recited additional Berachot, for a Beracha that was not instituted by the Sages constitutes a Beracha Le'batala – a Beracha recited in vain, which is forbidden. Undoubtedly, this man expressed his gratitude to Hashem for all his working body parts without reciting formal Berachot. By contrast, Rav Meir Mazuz (1945-2025) suggested that this righteous man followed the opinion that one is permitted to create his own Beracha to give praise to Hashem. In any event, the truth is that we do not need additional Berachot – formal or informal – to express our gratitude to Hashem for everything in our body that works properly. The Tur (Rabbenu Yaakov Ben Asher, Spain, 1270-1340) notes that in the Beracha of "Asher Yasar," which one recites after using the restroom, we say that Hashem created "Halulim Halulim" (hollow spaces in the body). The Gematria of the word "Halulim," the Tur observes, is 124, and we recite this word twice, for a total of 248 – the number of limbs and organs in a person's body. This expression, then, alludes to all our body parts. Thus, when we recite "Asher Yasar," we give thanks to Hashem not only for the wondrous ability to eliminate the waste from our body, but also for each and every body part. The Rishonim (Medieval scholars) debate the question of whether a person recites a Beracha that is not applicable to him, because he unfortunately does not have the ability for which that Beracha gives thanks. For example, does a blind person recite the Beracha of "Poke'ah Ivrim," in which we thank Hashem for the gift of vision? The Rambam (Hilchot Tefila 7:7-8) writes explicitly that a person recites each of these Berachot only after performing the action referred to by that Beracha. For example, after standing upright, one recites the Beracha of "Zokef Kefufim" ("Who makes the bent upright"), and after getting dressed, one recites the Beracha of "Malbish Arumim" ("Who clothes the naked"). The Rambam writes that if, for whatever reason, a person did not experience that which a given Beracha speaks of, then he does not recite that Beracha. In the Rambam's opinion, the Birkot Ha'shahar resemble the Berachot recited over food, which one recites only when eating. By the same token, one recites each of the morning blessings only after receiving the benefit for which each blessing gives praise. The Shulhan Aruch follows this opinion. By contrast, the Kolbo (anonymous work from the period of the Rishonim), citing several of the Geonim, writes that every person recites all the Birkot Ha'shahar, regardless of whether or not he personally experiences these phenomena. According to this opinion, the morning blessings express gratitude not for one's personal experience, but rather for the general phenomena mentioned by these Berachot. Even if one is not, Heaven forbid, able to see, for example, he still recites the Beracha of "Poke'ah Ivrim" to praise Hashem for the phenomenon of vision. Common practice follows this view of the Kolbo. One of the interesting questions asked regarding the Birkot Ha'shahar relates to the Halachic principle that applies in situations of a "Beracha Semucha La'haveratah" – a Beracha which is recited immediately following another Beracha. Normally, when a Beracha is recited right after another Beracha, it does not begin with the word "Baruch." Thus, for example, the text of Birkat Ha'mazon consists of four Berachot recited in immediate succession of one another, and thus only the first Beracha begins with "Baruch." The three subsequent Berachot are covered, so-to-speak, by the "Baruch" which begins the first Beracha, and so they do not require the introductory word "Baruch." In the Amida prayer, too, only the first Beracha begins with the word "Baruch," whereas all the subsequent Berachot do not, because they are recited immediately after the first Beracha. When it comes to Birkot Ha'shahar, however, the blessings all begin with the word "Baruch," despite the fact that they are recited as a series of Berachot, one right after the other. Tosafot in Masechet Berachot (46) offer two answers. First, they explain, unlike the blessings of Birkat Ha'mazon and the Amida, the blessings of Birkot Ha'shahar were not instituted as a series of Berachot. The Sages did not require reciting them together in a particular sequence. As we saw, the Rambam maintained that one recites each Beracha as he experiences the phenomenon referred to by each Beracha, and the Rambam writes explicitly that there is no set order for these Berachot. The rule of "Beracha Semucha La'haveratah," Tosafot write, applies only to a series of Berachot which were instituted to be recited together in a particular order, and so it does not apply to Birkot Ha'shahar. Secondly, Tosafot suggest, this rule applies only to relatively lengthy Berachot, such as the Berachot of Birkat Ha'mazon and the Amida. The Birkot Ha'shahar, however, are very brief, and thus they require the introduction of "Baruch Ata Hashem." A person should not unnecessarily get involved in other matters before reciting the Birkot Ha'shahar. Ideally, the Hesed La'alafim (Rav Eliezer Papo, 1785-1827) writes, the first words that come out of a person's mouth in the morning should be words of praise and gratitude to Hashem. One should not write text messages, make phone calls and the like before reciting the morning blessings. The Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakov Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939) warns that according to the Kabbalah, unnecessarily delaying the recitation of Birkot Ha'shahar has the effect of allowing the Kelipot (negative spiritual energies) access to the person's soul, which can cause great harm. One should not be doing anything else while reciting a Beracha. This applies not only to Birkot Ha'shahar, but to all blessings that we recite. The Ben Ish Hai writes that "Lo Tiheyeh Ka'zot Be'Yisrael" – it should never happen that a Jew recites a Beracha while being involved in some other activity. And the Ben Ish Hai laments the fact that many people make this mistake. One common example is Netilat Yadayim – many people mistakenly recite the Beracha while drying their hands. One must ensure not to begin reciting the Beracha of "Al Netilat Yadayim" until after he finished drying his hands. Another common mistake is people reciting Birkot Ha'shahar while rushing to get to shul. This is improper. One should recite a Beracha while standing in place and doing nothing else, focusing his attention fully on the Beracha. The Taz (Rav David Ha'levi Segal, Poland, 1586-1667) writes that one who recites a Beracha while performing other activities is included in the Torah's harsh warnings against serving Hashem "Be'keri" – in a casual, haphazard manner, without focus and attentiveness. Rav Chaim Brim (1922-2002) tells that he once went to visit Rav Moshe Yehoshua Landau in the middle of the night. Rav Landau was in the restroom when he arrived, and so he waited. When Rav Landau came out, he recited the Beracha of "Asher Yasar" without realizing that he was being watched. Rav Brim said that at 2am, without realizing that anyone was around, Rav Landau recited "Asher Yasar" with greater concentration and emotion than most people have while reciting Ne'ila in the synagogue on Yom Kippur. We start our day by thanking Hashem for all the great blessings He has granted us. I had the occasion during my trips to Israel to visit Israeli soldiers who, unfortunately, sustained injuries that necessitated the amputation of limbs. They do not have the ability that the rest of having to easily get out of bed and move about. We need to appreciate these great blessings that Hashem gives us anew each morning, and try, as much as possible, to recite the Berachot with thought and concentration, truly appreciating all that Hashem does for us.

Neshama is more than a book about a girl who sees ghosts—it's a lyrical meditation on identity, intergenerational trauma, and the courage to stay true to your soul. In this moving conversation, acclaimed author and educator Marcella Pixley reflects on the origins of her novel-in-verse, the inner world of her spiky protagonist Anna, and why young readers deserve stories that validate complexity and bravery. We dive deep into inherited wounds, ancestral strength, Jewish identity, forgiveness without erasure, and how middle-grade literature can make even the hardest truths palatable. Marcella also reads some of her stunning poetry—and shares what's next.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the On Your Mind Community today:journeysdream.orgTwitterInstagramFacebookYouTube

Welcome to Daily Bitachon . We continue with pesukim of chizuk that are given in Megillat Eicha . We're now in Perek ג , Pasuk 24 : חֶלְקִי ה׳ אָמְרָה נַפְשִׁי, עַל־כֵּן אוֹחִיל לוֹ . Hashem is my portion says my soul, therefore I hope in Him. The Sefer Yedei Moshe points out something interesting. In the original words of Yirmiyahu when he speaks of hope, he says: זֹא ת אָשִׁיב אֶל־לִבִּי, עַל־כֵּן אוֹחִיל "Yet this I bear in mind, therefore I still hope." But in our current pasuk it says: עַל־כֵּן אוֹחִיל לוֹ *"Therefore, I hope * to Him." Why the difference? Why does the first phrase say simply "I hope," and the second say, "I hope in Him "? The Yedei Moshe , if you remember, pointed out that the term ochil means not only " I hope for the future, " but also "I hope for a future that actually turns around the past." We gave the mashal of a man whose building was destroyed by a missile, and then the government came and rebuilt it—even better than before. In the original hope mentioned earlier— חַסְדֵי ה׳ כִּי לֹא תָמְנוּ —the Yedei Moshe explains that Yirmiyah was referring to physical hope : hope in the face of physical difficulties and challenges that can be reversed and transformed. But now, in this pasuk , we're talking about spiritual challenges . No matter the negativity that occurred in the past, I can now reconnect to Hashem in a way that restores me—not only to where I was, but to something even greater . That's why this time it says: עַל־כֵּן אוֹחִיל לוֹ " Therefore, I hope in Him ." This expresses my hope that I can reconstruct the relationship I once had with Hashem—only deeper, more complete. And why is that? Because: חֶלְקִי ה ׳ / My portion is Hashem What does that mean? It means my neshama is a chelek Eloka mi-ma'al —a piece of Hashem above. I am inherently connected to Hashem. And because of that deep connection, it's always possible—and even natural—to return. Although it may be hard to imagine how a destroyed home, building, or life can be rebuilt—when it comes to spiritual failure , that spiritual lapse can indeed be reconstructed and rejuvenated . There's a lot of depth to this piece. The sefarim HaKadoshim tell us—particularly the Nefesh HaChaim in his first section—that the neshama has many parts. Some parts are within the body, and others are above us. We have five levels of the soul: Nefesh, Ruach, Neshama, Chaya, and Yechidah. Nefesh – the nefesh habehemit , the animal soul, the instinctual side of us—fight or flight, physical drives. Ruach – located in the heart, representing emotion. Neshama – in the brain, representing intellect. Chaya – soul that's above us, a that constantly feeds us inspiration from beyond. Yechidah – the highest part of the soul, rooted directly in Hashem. At that highest level, there is only One . Yechidah , from the word yachid —one, indivisible. Of course, Hashem is always One, but at that level, we recognize it clearly. There's no illusion, no separation. We're plugged in to absolute truth. And that's the source of all teshuvah —rejuvenation flows from this untouched, pristine connection that is never severed. Rav Wolbe explains that our five tefillot of Yom Kippur correspond to these five levels of the soul: Maariv Shacharit Mussaf Minchah And finally: Ne'ilah At Ne'ilah , we reach that final level— חֶלְקִי ה׳ אָמְרָה נַפְשִׁי /I realize my soul is rooted in HaKadosh Baruch Hu . That's the moment when true teshuvah happens. A place where sin cannot touch. A place where spiritual renewal is not only possible—but inevitable. And that is the deep hope that Yirmiyah speaks of in our pasuk —not just a hope for physical renewal , but a hope for spiritual return . The first time: זֹאת אָשִׁיב אֶל־לִבִּי עַל־כֵּן אוֹחִיל This I bear in mind—therefore I hope. The second time: חֶלְקִי ה׳ אָמְרָה נַפְשִׁי עַל־כֵּן אוֹחִיל לוֹ Hashem is my portion, says my soul—therefore I hope in Him . And the Yedei Moshe ends this beautiful idea by saying: והוא דקדוק נכון – This is a precise and meaningful nuance (between these two pesukim).

What Kind Of Day?

Am Yisrael - Guf & Neshama - Rabbi Rowe by Shapell's Rabbeim

What Is Neshama Yesaira?

A reference to the Neshama based on Chasidus.

Daf Yomi Shevuos Daf 39 by R' Eli Stefansky--00:00 - Good Morning00:13 - Guests00:31 - Emails06:09 - MDYsponsor.com07:30 - Questions of the Day09:03 - Amud Beis16:08 - Amud Aleph38:55 - Amud Beis59:25 - Have a Wonderful Day!Quiz - http://Kahoot.MDYdaf.com ----Mesechta Sponsors:Anonymous: Hatzlacha bruchnius U'vgashmius----Monthly Sponsors:ActualEyes: IHO David (Duvie) Merkin of Eastern Union and all Silver Spring daffersEli Dyckman:For the Refuah sheleimah of תינוק בן רבקה and רבקה בת גילהTCS Israel Powered by TALKNSAVE----Sponsor of the Week:Anonymous: In honor of Reb Eli, his family and the whole MDY staff to continue to spread Torah ----Sponsor of the Day:Anonymous:לע׳נ יהונתן בנימין ב׳ר אברהם צבי ע׳ה On his 26th YurtzeitJeffrey Slatus: Refuah Shleima for Yehonatan Eitan ben Bas Sheva BrachaAvrohom Mayer Farkovits: L'N My Cousin, Rochel Leah bas R' Moshe - Ruchie Shoretz, May today's learning be a Zechus for her Neshama and a source of comfort for the familyAnonymous: In honor of our son that he should continue to learn daf yomi with as much energy as possible ----MDY Kids Monthly:Kidnovations: Zechus for Fishel, Elchanan, Akiva  |  Rivky & Mrs Stefansky----Art of the Month​:Refuah Shleima for יהונתן איתן בן בת שבע ברכהFor a zechus for Reb Eli and the whole MDY staff to continue to make Torah so enjoyable for so many In honor of Yossi Klein & Mark Ashkenazi for all the work they do----Turning of the daf:Kidnovations LLC: In honor of our sons; Kalmo (12yr) & Yisrael (9yr) for learning Sanhedrin & Makkos with Reb Eli ♥Adar Global:Going "Global" to be mechazeik the MDY chevrah on the East Coast! C U there!Anonymous: In honor of ALL the holy tzadikim that work so hard to bring us the daf every day with no credit given.  ‘Nuff said_______________________________

Daf Yomi Shevuos Daf 36 by R' Eli Stefansky--00:00 - Good Morning00:36 - Guests01:11 - Emails06:58 - MDYsponsor.com08:54 - Amud Beis13:05 - Amud Aleph43:09 - Amud Beis54:23 - Have a Wonderful Shabbos!Quiz - http://Kahoot.MDYdaf.com ----Mesechta Sponsors:Anonymous: Hatzlacha bruchnius U'vgashmius----Monthly Sponsors:ActualEyes: IHO David (Duvie) Merkin of Eastern Union and all Silver Spring daffersEli Dyckman:For the Refuah sheleimah of תינוק בן רבקה and רבקה בת גילהTCS Israel Powered by TALKNSAVE----Sponsor of the Week:Anonymous: In honor of Reb Eli, his family and the whole MDY staff to continue to spread Torah----Sponsor of the Day:Moshe Ginsberg:לע״נ צבי אביש בן משה הלוי May his Neshama have AliyahAnonymous from Lakewood: In honor of Yossi Greenzweig for bringing over ten guys to Reb Eli shiurJoseph Strulovitch:יוסף פנחס בן חוה שרה חנה בת באשה הדס ברכה והצלחהAnonymous: Hatzlacha ----MDY Kids Monthly:Kidnovations: Zechus for Fishel, Elchanan, Akiva  |  Rivky & Mrs Stefansky----Art of the Month​:Refuah Shleima for יהונתן איתן בן בת שבע ברכהFor a zechus for Reb Eli and the whole MDY staff to continue to make Torah so enjoyable for so many In honor of Yossi Klein & Mark Ashkenazi for all the work they do----Turning of the daf:Kidnovations LLC: In honor of our sons; Kalmo (12yr) & Yisrael (9yr) for learning Sanhedrin & Makkos with Reb Eli ♥Adar Global: Going "Global" to be mechazeik the MDY chevrah on the East Coast! C U there!Anonymous: In honor of Mark Ashkenazi, 'Nuff said________________________________

*Special Episode* Shavuot 5785 This week's episode of the One Pasuk Podcast is generously sponsored by Erica & Robert Klein, my mother and father in law in commemoration of the yahrzeit of their precious granddaughter, Chana Tova, daughter of Rabbi Chaim and Shoshana Poupko. She was a bright shining burst of light, who taught us all that the quality of our time on this earth is not dependent upon its length. Her spirit, smile, and courage will always be remembered by us. We pray that Hashem continue to watch over her Neshama. Megilat Rut וַתֹּאמֶר רוּת אַל־תִּפְגְּעִי־בִי לְעׇזְבֵךְ לָשׁוּב מֵאַחֲרָיִךְ כִּי אֶל־אֲשֶׁר תֵּלְכִי אֵלֵךְ וּבַאֲשֶׁר תָּלִינִי אָלִין עַמֵּךְ עַמִּי וֵאלֹהַיִךְ אֱלֹהָי׃ But Ruth replied, “Do not urge me to leave you, to turn back and not follow you. For wherever you go, I will go; wherever you lodge, I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God. *Subscribe/Listen/Share onepasukpodcast.com* *Sponsor an episode ahavathtorah.org/podcast*  

SHABUOT 5785- RUTH HACE EL TIKUN DE LOT Y TRAE LA NESHAMA DE DAVID HAMELEJ.m4a by Rab Shlomo Benhamu

nefesh hachaim

We know that the essence of a person is his Neshama . The body is merely a casing, and death simply means that the person comes out of that casing and continues to live — just in a better place. There isn't even one split second when a person is not fully alive. The moment of death is only the moment when the casing is removed. Sometimes, we are privileged to see clearly — even in this world — the eternity of the Neshama. A rabbi once related that many years ago, he was hired by a shul to give a series of classes, for which he was promised $2,000 upon completion. He gave the shiurim, but the payment never arrived. The president of the shul told him that the check would come in the mail, but apparently, it slipped his mind — because it never did. About a year later, the rabbi happened to meet the shul's treasurer. They made small talk, and during the conversation, it came to light that the rabbi had never been paid. The treasurer was horrified and told the rabbi that he would personally take care of it and get reimbursed by the shul. He then took $1,000 out of his own pocket and handed it to the rabbi. Before parting, he said, "I personally guarantee you will get the second $1,000 as well." Just a few days later, the treasurer became very sick. He was hospitalized and, tragically, passed away within two weeks. Some time afterward, the rabbi of that same shul called the original rabbi to his office. As soon as he arrived, the rabbi handed him an envelope with $1,000. "This," he said, "is from the treasurer who recently passed away." Puzzled, the rabbi asked, "How did you know about the treasurer's promise? No one else knew — only he and I." The rabbi replied, "My wife had a dream. The treasurer appeared to her and told her he wasn't allowed into Gan Eden because of an unpaid promise. He asked that the money be given right away to fulfill his word." There was no way anyone could have known about that promise — except if the treasurer had truly come back from the next world to make things right. When a person passes away, his life does not end. He simply relocates — to a far better place. A man shared the following story that he heard firsthand from someone named Reuven. Reuven said that in Poland, during the Holocaust, a man lost his wife and was left raising their only son alone. At one point, they were separated, and the father was forced to flee for his life. He was almost certain that his three-year-old son had not survived. Four years later, one night, the man's wife appeared to him in a dream. She told him that their son was still alive and he must go find him. At first, he dismissed it as just a dream. But then it happened again. The father returned to his hometown and discovered that a righteous gentile had rescued several Jewish children during the war. He tracked this man down, entered his home — and there he saw his seven-year-old son. He recognized him immediately. ברוך ה׳ , he was able to raise his son in Torah and mitzvot, and eventually, the boy grew into a man who built a beautiful Torah family. Reuven concluded, "I know this story is true — because I was that seven-year-old boy. It was my mother who came to my father in a dream and told him I was still alive." The next world is very real. As it says in קהלת : וְיָשֹׁב הֶעָפָר עַל הָאָרֶץ כְּשֶׁהָיָה וְהָרוּחַ תָּשׁוּב אֶל הָאֱלֹקים אֲשֶׁר נְתָנָהּ — "And the dust will return to the earth as it was, and the spirit will return to God who gave it." If a person fulfills his mission in this world, he will experience the greatest bliss — for all eternity

nefesh hachaim

nefesh hachaim

nefesh hachaim

nefesh hachaim

nefesh hachaim

00:00 - Good Morning00:14 - Where am I?02:12 - Emails03:51 - MDYsponsor.com05:10 - Introduction07:58 - Amud Aleph23:54 - Amud Beis47:54 - Have a Wonderful Day!Quiz - http://Kahoot.MDYdaf.com----Mesechta Sponsors:Anonymous: Hatzlacha bruchnius U'vgashmius----Monthly Sponsors:לע״נ זכריה בן משה, לע״נ חיה בת יוסףParnasa Birevach for Baruch Tzvi Nissim ben Shoshana LeahJeffs Gourmet Los AngelesMoshe Aron & Miriam Landy: For the hatzlacha of all our childrenActualEyes: IHO David (Duvie) Merkin of Eastern Union and all Silver Spring daffers----Sponsor of the Week:Yumi Feig:לעילוי נשמת שיינדל בת הרב יחיאל מיכל ע"ה יארצייט ל"ג בעומר - להצלחה בכל ענינים----Sponsors of the Day:Ari Buckman: Lz"n the yorzite of my father today Yakov ben MosheAvrohom Mayer Farkovits: L'N My Paternal Grandfather, R' Dov ben R' Yisroel - R' Dov Farkovits, May today's learning be a Zechus for his Neshama & a source of comfort for the familyAhuva Berman: We would like to dedicate today's learning in honor of Shaul Baruch Ben Batya Raizel----MDY Kids Monthly:Kidnovations: Zechus for Fishel, Elchanan, Akiva  |  Rivky & Mrs Stefansky----Art of the Month​:Refuah Shleima for יהונתן איתן בן בת שבע ברכה-For a zechus for Reb Eli and the whole MDY staff to continue to make Torah so enjoyable for so many -In honor of Yossi Klein & Mark Ashkenazi for all the work they do----Turning of the daf:Kidnovations LLC: In honor of our sons; Kalmo (12yr) & Yisrael (9yr) for learning Sanhedrin & Makkos with Reb Eli ♥Adar Global: (Still!) Experts in International Financial ServicesAnonymous: In honor of the tzadik whose name we cannot say who shows us what is means to be a giver and tzadik________________________________

The Hid"a (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1807), in his work Moreh Be'esba (2:41), discusses the unique significance of studying Mishna (listen to audio recording for precise citation). He notes that the word "Mishna" has the same letters as "Neshama" ("soul"), indicating that studying Mishna has the capacity to cleanse and rectify the soul. Citing from the students of the Arizal, the Hid"a writes that when one learns Mishnayot from Seder Zera'im, the first section of the Mishna, which begins with Masechet Berachot, he should have in mind that he seeks to correct sins involving forbidden foods and Berachot recited in vain. The soul then receives a "Tikkun" (rectification) for these sins through the learning. When learning Seder Mo'ed, which discusses the laws of Shabbat and holidays, one should have in mind to correct sins involving the desecration of Shabbat and Yom Tob. When learning Seder Nashim, one should have in mind to correct sins relating to immorality, and sins involving vows (as Seder Nashim includes the laws of vows). When learning Seder Nezikin, one should have in mind damage that he may have caused to other people. When learning Seder Kodashim, one should have in mind to atone for having profaned his sacred soul, and for laxity in the Halachot involving preparing meat for consumption (slaughtering and inspecting the animal), as these Halachot are discussed in Seder Kodashim. Finally, when learning Sefer Taharot, one should have in mind sins involving family purity, bodily emissions, and laxity in the obligation of Netilat Yadayim. (Incidentally, the fact that laxity in Netilat Yadayim requires a special Tikkun reminds us of the importance of this Misva, and how careful we must be to fulfill the obligation of Netilat Yadayim properly.) The Hid"a adds that there is nothing as valuable as the study of Mishnayot in a loud, clear voice. Furthermore, he writes, Asher, Yaakob's son, stands by the entrance of Gehinam, and rescues anyone who has studied Mishna. This is the meaning of the verse, "Me'Asher Shemena Lahmo" ("From Asher – his bread is hearty" – Bereshit 49:20). The word "Shemena" has the same letters as "Mishna," suggesting that Asher benefits people who study Mishna. This is especially appropriate and worthwhile to bear in mind as we begin a new cycle of Daf Yomi, as the study of Mishna and Talmud offers us the special opportunity to rectify our souls and reach greater heights of holiness and spirituality.

LAG BAOMER 5785- MOSHE LLEVO LA NESHAMA DE RABI SHIMON ARA RECIBIR LA TORA by Rab Shlomo Benhamu

There is a widely-accepted, time-honored custom to light candle in memory of a loved one, or of a Sadik, during the Shiba mourning period, and each year on the Yahrtzeit. Although this practice is not mentioned explicitly anywhere in the Talmud, it might be alluded to in two places. First, the Gemara relates that before Rebbi (Rabbi Yehuda Ha'nasi) passed away, he gave his sons a number of instructions, one of which was that there should be a candle lit by his place. Rashi explains that Rebbi's soul returned to his home every Friday night to be with his wife, ad so he asked that there would be a candle lit by his place in honor of Shabbat. But the Yabetz (Rav Yaakob Emden, Germany, 1697-1776) suggests that this might be a basis for the custom to light a candle in honor of one's deceased parent, as Rebbi's instruction could be understood to mean that he wanted his children to light a candle in his honor. Another possible source is the Gemara's discussion in Masechet Berachot (53) of the Beracha "Boreh Me'oreh Ha'esh" recited over a flame on Mosa'eh Shabbat. The Gemara states that this Beracha may be recited only over a candle that was lit for illumination purposes, as opposed to "Ner Shel Metim" – "the candle of the deceased" – which is lit in honor of the deceased, and not for illumination. This would certainly indicate that there was a practice to light candles in honor of the deceased. However, this might refer only to candles lit around the deceased before burial, as opposed to our practice to light candles during Shiba and on the Yahrtzeit. In the writings of the Rishonim, we find mention of this concept in the Kolbo (by Rav Yehonatan of Lunel, Provence, late 13th-early 14th century), in the section discussing the laws of Yom Kippur. He writes that it is customary to light candles on Ereb Yom Kippur in memory of one's deceased parents. This custom is brought by the Rama (Rav Moshe Isserles, Cracow, 1530-1572) in his glosses to the Shulhan Aruch. The Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan of Radin, 1839-1933) writes that even the deceased are, in a sense, judged on Yom Kippur, and so we light candles in their memory as a source of merit for them. What's the explanation of this practice? How does lighting a candle benefit the soul of the deceased? One explanation is that lighting a candle in itself brings no benefit to the deceased, but when candles are lit in the synagogue, this fulfills a Misva which brings merit to the deceased's soul. Generations ago, candles were needed for illumination, and so lighting candles in the synagogue was a very important Misva. Indeed, it was customary years ago for people to donate oil for the lights in the synagogue in merit of a deceased parent. More generally, lighting candles enhances the atmosphere of the synagogue, and this, too, constitutes a Misva which brings merit to the deceased. (Interestingly, one contemporary work suggested that it would be appropriate to donate towards the synagogue's electric bill as a merit for the deceased, just as years ago people would donate oil for the lights.) According to this explanation, the value of lighting candles is only when it is done for a Misva, meaning, when the candles are lit in the synagogue. However, the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909), in his Torah Li'shmah, writes that the lighting itself brings comfort and joy to the soul of the deceased. He explains that a soul is like a candle, and similar entities are attracted to one another. Therefore, when a candle is lit at a place where the soul is present, the soul experiences some degree of enjoyment. However, the Ben Ish Hai emphasizes that this is relevant only in the place where the soul is present – namely, in the deceased's home during the Shiba period, or at the grave. According to the Ben Ish Hai, then, there is no purpose to light a candle in memory of the deceased in his or her home after the Shiba, or even during the Shiba if the mourning is observed somewhere other than the deceased's home. Regardless, the Poskim accorded great importance to this custom. It is mentioned in the major works on mourning (Gesher Ha'haim, Ma'abar Yabok). In fact, the Mishna Berura (261) writes that during the period of Ben Ha'shemashot after sundown on Friday afternoon, when it is permissible to ask a gentile to perform a Melacha (forbidden activity) on one's behalf when there is a great need, one may ask a gentile to light a Yahrtzeit candle. Meaning, if one forgot the light the candle before Shabbat, he may ask a non-Jew to do so during the period of Ben Ha'shemashot, because this is considered a matter of great need. Likewise, Hacham Bension Abba Shaul (Israel, 1924-1998) writes that if one has Yahrtzeit on Yom Tob and forgot to light the candle before Yom Tob, he may light it on Yom Tob (from a preexisting flame). This is considered a significant enough need to permit lighting a candle on Yom Tob. When lighting the candle, the Ben Ish Hai writes, it is proper to declare that the candle is being lit for the "Menuhat Nefesh" ("rest of the soul") or "Iluy Nefesh" ("elevation of the soul") of the deceased, mentioning the deceased's name. It is also proper to give some charity at the time the candle is lit. Some opinions say it is preferable to use oil for this candle, because the word "Shemen" ("oil") has the letters of "Neshama," whereas others say wax should be used, because the letters of the word "Sha'ava" ("wax") represent the verse, "Hakisu Ve'ranenu Shocheneh Afar" – "Awaken and rejoice, those who lie in the earth," the verse which speaks of the resurrection of the dead in the future. Summary: There is a time-honored custom to light a candle in memory of a deceased loved one during the Shiba mourning period, and on the Yahrtzeit. According to one view, the candles are lit in the synagogue as a merit for the deceased, whereas others explain that a candle lit in a place where the deceased's soul is present brings joy and comfort to the soul. Therefore, according to many opinions, the candles should be lit only in the deceased's home during Shiba, at the grave, or in the synagogue.

Sponsored by Moishe and Devorie David. Thank you for the last 3 years that you have been influencing us daily! May you and your wife see loads of Nachas from the whole family, and may we share in Simchos with the whole Orlofsky nation!

In this episode of the Z3 Podcast, artists Vanessa Hidary and Neshama Carlebach reflect on how their creative work and personal identities have been transformed in the wake of October 7. They share how their art has shifted toward activism, shaped by grief, urgency, and deep connection to their communities. The conversation explores the evolving role of Jewish artists, the contrasts between diaspora and Israeli experiences, and the ways art can offer healing in moments of rupture. Listen to these groundbreaking artists as they get deep and spiritual, making the case for art and activism as a genuine, necessary tool in building the world to come.Neshama Carlebach is an award-winning singer, songwriter and educator who has performed and taught in cities around the world. In the aftermath of the October 7th attacks, Neshama brought thousands of people together throughout the NY metro area for concerts that have raised over half a million dollars for Israel. Neshama is currently pursuing rabbinic ordination at The Academy for Jewish Religion.Vanessa Hidary is an international spoken word artist, educator, and advocate whose work has had a profound impact on both the Jewish community and beyond. She began performing her powerful poetry in New York City venues, becoming a pioneering voice for Jewish identity in the slam poetry scene. Inspired by her own Syrian-Jewish heritage, she founded the Kaleidoscope Project, a narrative-arts initiative that amplifies the stories of Jews of diverse backgrounds. In addition to her work in the arts, Vanessa has become a prominent advocate for Jewish unity in the wake of the rising antisemitism post-October 7th, 2023. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Artists and Context01:40 Impact of October 7th on Artistic Expression09:32 The Blurring of Personal and Artistic Identity10:59 The Responsibility of Artists in Times of Crisis18:42 Navigating Audience Expectations and Artistic Integrity26:12 The Role of Community and Family in Artistic Expression30:15 Looking Towards the Future for the Next Generation33:04 The Role of Art in Uniting Communities34:30 Navigating Division Within the Jewish Community36:47 The Impact of Personal Experience on Understanding39:08 The Responsibility of Jewish Artists43:46 The Connection Between Diaspora and Israeli Jews51:32 Spiritual Engagement and Activism54:14 The Journey of Learning and Identity58:07 Long-Term Commitment to Community and Identity

Harav Yussie Zakutinsky Shlita

Send us a textIn today's episode I am joined by Atara Weissberger—author, speaker, and holistic health coach—whose new book How to Soul invites us on a powerful journey of healing, faith, and self-discovery. In this conversation, we dive into the heart of her message: what it means to live from the soul, how to navigate pain with grace, and how to return to your truest self.And stick around for the end of the episode, where I'm joined by Rabbi Dov Lipman—educator, former Knesset member, and passionate voice for Jewish unity—for a powerful Torah takeaway that ties everything together with wisdom and perspective.Whether you're on your own healing path or simply curious about the intersection of wellness and spirituality, this episode is one you won't want to miss.YouTube: https://youtu.be/RHKfKesE2xg- - - - - Holy Health Podcast:Email: Holyhealthpodcast@gmail.comInstagram: @holy_healthpodcastwwwwHolyhealthpodcast.comHoly Health Official Podcast:https://www.buzzsprout.com/589555/9876240Holy Health YouTube Account:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrYPOvFawrjhH_2U7r61M2QMusach Haguf:Instagram: @darapt613@holy_healthpodcast- - - - -This podcast has been edited by Yakir Abelow of 'YA Joker productions'For more information contact:https://wa.me/c/972586918089Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ya_jokerproductions/

This week's learning is sponsored by Audrey Mondrow in loving memory of Bessie “Nanny” Mauskopf, Basha Leah bat Tzivia Chaya and Meyer Yehuda. "A very special mother. By example she taught me how to be a mother and grandmother. We miss her dearly. May her Neshama have an Aliyah." The Mishna in Negaim is similar to the Mishna in Shevuot regarding the two shades of white that are considered leprous in the Torah and the two that the Rabbis added, and elaborates a little more. The Gemara explains that the Mishna there doesn't match Rabbi Akiva's opinion as the Mishna connects between avot, main categories and toladot, sub-categories and Rabbi Akiva connects between the order of the shades of white, which would mean one main category, baheret, then the next main category, se’et, and then each of their sub-categories – first the one for baheret, then the one for se’et. From where do we know that this is Rabbi Akiva's position? The first attempt to find the source is unsuccessful but it is proven from a second source.  From where do we derive that baheret also has sub-categories if the word in the verse mentioning sub-categories, sapachat, is said in connection with se'et?  From where is it derived that the verses that obligate one to bring a sliding scale sin offering if one is impure refer to one who entered the Temple or ate sacrificial items? 

This week's learning is sponsored by Audrey Mondrow in loving memory of Bessie “Nanny” Mauskopf, Basha Leah bat Tzivia Chaya and Meyer Yehuda. "A very special mother. By example she taught me how to be a mother and grandmother. We miss her dearly. May her Neshama have an Aliyah." The Mishna in Negaim is similar to the Mishna in Shevuot regarding the two shades of white that are considered leprous in the Torah and the two that the Rabbis added, and elaborates a little more. The Gemara explains that the Mishna there doesn't match Rabbi Akiva's opinion as the Mishna connects between avot, main categories and toladot, sub-categories and Rabbi Akiva connects between the order of the shades of white, which would mean one main category, baheret, then the next main category, se’et, and then each of their sub-categories – first the one for baheret, then the one for se’et. From where do we know that this is Rabbi Akiva's position? The first attempt to find the source is unsuccessful but it is proven from a second source.  From where do we derive that baheret also has sub-categories if the word in the verse mentioning sub-categories, sapachat, is said in connection with se'et?  From where is it derived that the verses that obligate one to bring a sliding scale sin offering if one is impure refer to one who entered the Temple or ate sacrificial items? 

A man told me he hasn't been able to sleep in four nights since the tragedy occurred this past Shabbat. He thinks about it day and night, and so many questions come to his mind. He can't fathom such a thing could have happened. First and foremost, we must use our feelings as a springboard to value life more and understand how transient and fleeting this world is and how there's nothing more important than our service to Hashem. This is the only thing we bring with us. Regarding our feelings of feeling bad for the people who left the world, we must know every person has a Neshama, and the Neshama never dies. We should not think that our Neshama is something beyond us that we don't have such a connection to. We are our Neshama, our thoughts, our emotions, everything about us comes from our Neshama. The body is not what gives us life. It is just the casing that surrounds us. When a person passes on, the only change that occurs is that the person sheds his case. The person is still alive. He still has the same thoughts. He has the same feelings. He moves on and lives in another location, a place that is far better than the world that we live in. When the soul leaves the body, that is when life truly begins. And for a person who did his job properly in this world, and all the more so pure, innocent children, their journey to Gan Eden is the most beautiful experience. From the first moment, they are privileged to see the radiance of Hashem's She c hina , and Hashem does not leave them. He escorts them to their luxurious abode in Gan Eden, and their relatives and friends who have moved on to Gan Eden come out to greet them. The Neshama has the semblance of our physical bodies. That is why when someone sees a relative in a dream, the relative appears the same way that he did down here. This world is such a small part of our existence. The next world is what lasts forever. When a baby is in the mother's womb, it can't imagine that there's life beyond the womb, but little does it know, when it comes out, there's a whole world in front of it. The same is true of the next world. We can't imagine another world out there, but there is one far better than this world in every possible way. Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Sher was already in Israel when the Holocaust began. He eventually found out that his only son was amongst those who died Al Kidush Hashem back in Europe. When he found out, he gathered all his students together to give them chiz uk for the atrocities that were going on. Most of his students also lost many of their relatives. The rabbi began in a calm and peaceful tone. He started by saying a blessing for the bad tidings the same way he would on good tidings. And then he began describing to the students the delights and beauties that are awaiting in the world of truth. He said, "Imagine I was told that my son is in the upper story of my house right now, and he is filled with all the goodness that can possibly be experienced. Anything he wants, he could have. He is in a place of bliss and tranquility. The only issue is that the door to get in is locked, so I can't get in. Wouldn't I still be so happy for my son? This is the way we should feel about all our relatives. They are in the highest places in Gan Eden, enjoying with Hashem." When someone goes to Gan Eden, we don't have to feel bad for them. They have everything. It is us back here who are going to miss them. There is so much out there that we can't see. Hashem puts every person where they need to be for exactly how long they need to be there. One of the expressions that we use to comfort the mourners is hamakom yenahem etchem . The Sefat Emmet asks, why do we use the word etchem in plural? Even if there's only one mourner, we say etchem or tena c hamu min ha shamayim . We use the plural form of the word you. He answers, the phrase is meant to comfort not only the mourner, but the soul that departed. Because when the soul sees the mourners crying, he wants to tell them, "Don't feel bad. I'm right here, I'm fine. It's so much better for me now. You don't understand." Hashem does not allow the mourners to see the neshama , however. So the neshama feels bad for the mourners. When a visitor comes to the mourner, he brings consolation to the neshama as well, because the visitor is doing what the neshama wants to do, cheer up the mourner. And that is why we say hamakom yenahem etchem . May Hashem comfort you in plural, both the mourners as well as the souls that have departed. One should never think that if someone lives for a short amount of time and accomplishes, he would have accomplished more had he been given more time. The midrash tells us, Moshe Rabbeinu lived 120 years, leading the Jewish people in the desert for 40 years, bringing down the Torah to Am Yisrae from Shamayim . Shemuel Hanavi , however, lived for just 52 years. He served the people and carried their burdens while he was the leader. And the pasuk in Tehillim in Perekh 99 equates Moshe and Shemuel. And from here, our rabbis learn, it's not about the amount of time a person has. If the person did what he was supposed to do in the amount of time that Hashem has given him, he will gain the full reward in the next world. If someone is taken at a young age, the family and friends are going to miss him, but they should never feel bad that they are missing out. The ones who left the world don't care to be missing out on anything here. They are in a much better place. May Hashem console the mourners and may all of us become inspired to improve our ways and get closer to Hashem.

Learning Weekly in Lessons in Tanya chapter 31, we continue identifying with the Neshama and Nefesh Elokai to healthfully grow the child within, discipline the animal soul, and join a community that we shine as an individual

Unlock the secrets of Everyday Judaism with our latest episode, a journey through faith, law, and the soulful essence of human connections. Explore the surprising notion of escaping from a mugger as a mitzvah and how the Torah guides us in self-defense and moral clarity. We'll traverse the fine line between caution and courage, delve into the significance of the Tachanun prayer, and discuss when its omission is more than just ceremonial, but a profound statement of joy or reverence.Our discussion doesn't stop there; we navigate the unique challenges of observing Shabbat amidst life's unpredictabilities. Learn practical strategies for maintaining Shabbat observance, even when emergencies call for our attention. From using "shinui" to creatively adhere to Shabbat laws, to managing items like keychains and muktza, we provide actionable insights that harmonize religious devotion with modern living. These insights aim to empower listeners with the tools to uphold tradition without sacrificing life's daily responsibilities.Finally, embark on a spiritual exploration of the soul's journey and the divine choreography of relationships. With the Torah as our compass, we discuss how nurturing relationships can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. We'll reflect on the mystical bond of marriage and how each soul is destined for a unique journey. Whether navigating the search for a life partner or appreciating the intricate dance of marriage, this episode promises to inspire a deeper appreciation for the ties that bind body, soul, and the divine. Join us as we share stories and wisdom that illuminate the path of meaningful bonds and personal transformation.In this episode of Ask Away we address various questions including:Is it a Mitzvah to run away from a mugger?What is Muktzeh?When does the Neshama/soul enter the body, at birth? Conception?How do we understand the bond of Marriage?And much more ... Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #24) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 12, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#AskAway, #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Jewishtradition, #JewishRituals ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock the secrets of Everyday Judaism with our latest episode, a journey through faith, law, and the soulful essence of human connections. Explore the surprising notion of escaping from a mugger as a mitzvah and how the Torah guides us in self-defense and moral clarity. We'll traverse the fine line between caution and courage, delve into the significance of the Tachanun prayer, and discuss when its omission is more than just ceremonial, but a profound statement of joy or reverence.Our discussion doesn't stop there; we navigate the unique challenges of observing Shabbat amidst life's unpredictabilities. Learn practical strategies for maintaining Shabbat observance, even when emergencies call for our attention. From using "shinui" to creatively adhere to Shabbat laws, to managing items like keychains and muktza, we provide actionable insights that harmonize religious devotion with modern living. These insights aim to empower listeners with the tools to uphold tradition without sacrificing life's daily responsibilities.Finally, embark on a spiritual exploration of the soul's journey and the divine choreography of relationships. With the Torah as our compass, we discuss how nurturing relationships can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. We'll reflect on the mystical bond of marriage and how each soul is destined for a unique journey. Whether navigating the search for a life partner or appreciating the intricate dance of marriage, this episode promises to inspire a deeper appreciation for the ties that bind body, soul, and the divine. Join us as we share stories and wisdom that illuminate the path of meaningful bonds and personal transformation.In this episode of Ask Away we address various questions including:Is it a Mitzvah to run away from a mugger?What is Muktzeh?When does the Neshama/soul enter the body, at birth? Conception?How do we understand the bond of Marriage?And much more ... Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #24) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 12, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#AskAway, #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Jewishtradition, #JewishRituals ★ Support this podcast ★

What Is The Benefit?

00:00 - Good Morning01:17 - Breakfast Sponsor02:21 - Guests03:35 - MDYsponsor.com 07:34 - Mazal Tov08:07 - Questions of the Day09:05 - Amud Aleph27:39 - Amud Beis52:12 - Have a Wonderful Day! Quiz - http://Kahoot.MDYdaf.com----Mesechta Sponsors:Refuah Shelaima for Yosef Chaim Shmuel ben Alte Nechama, From His Grateful Family-For הצלחה ברוחניות ובגשמיות-Larry Cohn: In memory of Yechiel Moshe Ben Chaim v'Yetta, who started learning Daf Yomi at age 70 and continued for 32 years until he was nifter​-For the unity of the Jewish people​-Glenn Esterson: With love & gratitude from Wilmington NC. Thank you for enriching my life with Torah----Monthly Sponsors:לע״נ זכריה בן משה לע״נ חיה בת יוסף-Leilui Nishmat Yaffa Bat Simcha. Refuah Shlema Yisrael Yaakov ben Malka-Zchut Parnasa Birevach for Baruch Tzvi Nissim ben Shoshana Leah-Kidnovations LLC: In honor of Uncle Elchanan & Fishel. A zechus for Akiva Simcha Ben Fayga, a shidduch for רבקה יהודית בת יפה חיה & a THANK YOU to Rebbitzen Stefansky-With הכרת הטוב from anonymous-Shprintzy & Alan Gross:לע""נ The yahrzeits of our Father's: שלמה זלמן בן יצחק אייזיק ז""ל & בנימין אייזיק בן צבי הירש הכהן ז""ל----Weekly Sponsors:Dov Eisenberger: In honor of the Bergen Hatzalah MDYers. The Monsey fire fighters had their turn :)----Daily Sponsors:Mordechai Sapoznick: Lezaicher Nishmas my Rosh Yeshiva, Horav Chaim Leib Epstein zt"l, Horav Chaim Leib ben Rav Yosef Dovid Haleivi. The Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshiva Zichron Meilech. Also a close talmid of Horav Aharon Kotler zt"l. May his neshama have an aliyah!-לע""נ ראובן ב""ר אברהם הלוי Levin Who's Yahrtzeit is today, May his Neshama have an Aliyah. By his grandson Peretz Chaim Levin. Mazel Tov to Morei V'Rabi on the birth of his newest granddaughter Adira Jacobs, V'Chen Yirbu! May she give much Yiddishe Nachas to her family & Klal Yisroel-לע"נ טויבע בת ר' ישראל ע"ה - לע"נ שלמה אלימלך בן ר' מנחם ע"ה-לזכות שלום בית נחת מהבנים בריאות הצלחה ופרנסה טובה בשפע רב עד בלי די ליצחק בן דינה יוטא ושושנה מלכה בת יוכבד רבקה----Art of the Month​:For a zechus for Reb Eli and the whole MDY staff to continue to make Torah so enjoyable for so many -In honor of Yossi Klein & Mark Ashkenazi for all the work they do----Turning of the daf:Kidnovations LLC: In honor of Elchanan Pressman & Fishel. A zechus for Akiva Simcha Ben Fayga, a shidduch for רבקה יהודית בת יפה חיה & a THANK YOU to Rebbitzen Stefansky-Adar Global: Experts in International Financial Services-לזכות רפואת התינוק יחזקאל ידידיה בן נחמה שיינדל_________________________________

Maya Namdar began her career in the fashion world as a merchandiser for trendy boutiques in Soho. She graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology, majoring in fashion buying and merchandising. She founded and owns Maya's Place, designing fashionable looks that radiate beauty and femininity without compromising modesty. Maya is the mother of Liel A"H, her 15-year-old daughter who passed away in a car accident in December 2021.   Liel was an extraordinary girl who had a lofty Neshama. She had a contagious smile that lit up the world. She lived, loved, laughed & learned" for herself and everyone around her. Liel loved to help people and make them smile, especially those in the outer circle. She didn't do it because she felt she had to- she did it because she wanted too; it was her essence. Maya shares her inspiring story and perspectives in this incredibly meaningful episode.

Harav Yussie Zakutinsky Shlita

00:00 - Singing00:33 - Good Voch00:51 - Emails/Guests08:15 - MDYsponsor.com11:18 - Amud Beis11:58 - Amud Aleph30:32 - Amud Beis50:03 - Have a Wonderful Week!Quiz - http://Kahoot.MDYdaf.com----Mesechta Sponsors:Refuah Shelaima for Yosef Chaim Shmuel ben Alte Nechama, From His Grateful Family-For הצלחה ברוחניות ובגשמיות-Larry Cohn: In memory of Yechiel Moshe Ben Chaim v'Yetta, who started learning Daf Yomi at age 70 and continued for 32 years until he was nifter​-For the unity of the Jewish people​----Monthly Sponsors:לע״נ סיליה בת דבורה​-לעלוי נשמת בנימין מאיר בן זאב דוד הי״ד​-לע״נ זכריה בן משה לע״נ חיה בת יוסף-Yosef Ben Chaya Sara for parnassa B'revach-As a zechus for our children & tremendous parnassa-Leilui Nishmat Yaffa Bat Simcha. Refuah Shlema Yisrael Yaakov ben Malka-Kidnovations LLC: In honor of my Uncle Reb Elchanan Pressman & Fishel. It should be a zechus for Akiva Simcha Ben Fayga, a shidduch for רבקה יהודית בת יפה חיה & a THANK YOU to Rebbitzen Stefansky for selflessly giving up her husband for the klal. It should be a zechus for a year filled with Mazel, Bracha, hatzlacha, Parnassa B'revach & Refuah----Shiur Sponsors:L'Refuah Sheleima Mordechai Simcha Ben Chana Minna a young father who needs our tefillos sponsored by his family-Heidi Wietschner: First Yahrzeit of my father Allen Schaeffer - Avraham Ben Yitzchak a"h 4 Tevet-Peretz Chaim Levin: L”N Hillel Yaakov ben Beryl Leib Saydowitz, Hashem Yimkom Dom'om, whose Yahrzeit was on Shabbos. He was Ne'herag Al Kiddush Hashem while coming home from Maariv near Punivitch Lithuania in the early 1900's. May his Neshama have an Aliyah. By his great grandson-Lzchus a refuah shelayma for שלמה זלמן בן עתרה רחל, the son of a member of the shiur who is in need of rachamei shamayim----Kollel Week:In memory of Simcha and Gitel Stern, lifelong supporters of Torah----Art of the Month​:For a zechus for Reb Eli and the whole MDY staff to continue to make Torah so enjoyable for so many -In honor of Yossi Klein & Mark Ashkenazi for all the work they do----Turning of the daf:Bercovici Family​:In Honor of the MDY DAF Champions: ​Leo, Shamshi Szlafrok, Uncle Fredi and Mr. Gross.​-L'Refuah Shleima for our fearless leader & Chief Chaim Gavriel ben Tzivia Lana. By the members of the Monsey Fire Department-Yaakov Citron​:CitronFilms - Strategic video production​_________________________________

Chanukah - Making Shalom Between the Guf and Neshama

This week I have three stories for Yud Tes Kislev, the Rosh Hashana of Chassidus. The first is about two Misnagdim that come to the Alter Rebbe for advice, the second about a young many drafted into the Czar's army who comes to the Rebbe Maharash for a blessing and the last about a donor who would not give me after the Frierdiker Rebbe passed away. 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-same-neshama-just-a-different-body. 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 - Good Morning00:16 - Happy Birthday R' Eli!01:56 - Emails08:17 - MDYsponsor.com10:58 - Question of the Day12:48 - Amud Beis19:23 - Amud Aleph37:14 - Amud Beis40:07 - Upcoming Shiurim53:10 - Have a Wonderful Day!Quiz - http://Kahoot.MDYdaf.com--Anonymous - For the safe and speedy return of all the hostages&לע״נ זכריה בן משהלע״נ חיה בת יוסף&Yosef Ben Chaya Sara for Parnassa B'revach&Refuat hanefesh and guf for Breina Bina bat Miriam baila, Ora bracha bat breina bina, Netanel Kalev ben ora bracha&For a fast and complete refuah sheleyma for Shmuel Nechemia ben Hinda&לע״נ סיליה בת דבורה&לעלוי נשמת בנימין מאיר בן זאב דוד הי״ד&Refuah Shelaima for Yosef Chaim Shmuel ben Alte Nechama, From His Grateful Family ​&Yaakov Citron: Excited to meet everyone at the Shabbaton​&Anonymous from Lakewood: As a zuchus for Reb Eli and the chevra for a safe trip & thank you to Yossi and Mark​​&In honor of מורי ורבי Reb Eli שליט״א's birthday. May he and his family be bestowed with all the Brachos. Much Hakaras HaTov for giving me back my portion of the תורה הקדוש. L'Zecher Nishmas my namesake's Yahrtzeit פרץ בן הלל יעקב Saydowitz Who was born near Punivitch Lithuania. May his Neshama have an Aliyah. By his great nephew Peretz Chaim Levin​&Sponsored by Kidnovations LLC in honor of Rebbi U'mori, HaRav Eli Stefansky on his Hebrew birthday!

2 section- defense of Rav (Rabanan agree abt Shabbat) and source for distinction regarding wound that returns/doesn't (blood to body), discussion about types of creatures/situations liable for killing and liability of removing items from life source (kotzer)

1 section- discussion about types of creatures/situations liable for killing and liability of removing items from life-source (kotzer)

In today's episode we discuss how the Tzaddik's continues to illuminate his followers after he passes away, even from the higher Neshama level.Iggeres HaKodesh, end of Epistle 27. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

5785 Season Click ⁠here⁠ for sources