Podcasts about Pirkei Avot

The Mishnah in Pirkei Avot teaches us how deeply beloved we are to Hashem — not only did He give us His precious Torah, but He also expressed His immense love by telling us just how valuable that gift is. Shavuot is a time to appreciate the Torah as our guiding light and to reflect on the responsibility that comes with such a gift. The pasuk in Tehillim states: " טוֹב לִי תוֹרַת פִּיךָ מֵאַלְפֵי זָהָב וָכָסֶף " — "The Torah of Your mouth is better for me than thousands of gold and silver pieces" (Tehillim 119:72). The mefarshim are puzzled: how can something eternal like the Torah be compared to something as finite and physical as gold and silver? One explanation is that, as physical beings, we naturally place high value on material wealth. The pasuk is providing a relatable point of comparison. To us, there is no greater earthly treasure than vast amounts of gold and silver — and yet, the Torah tells us its value pales in comparison to the Torah's worth. Hashem instilled within us an affinity for wealth specifically so we could begin to grasp, on our own terms, just a fraction of the Torah's true value. Yet, there lies a danger. Sometimes we become so enamored by the mashal that we lose sight of the nimshal — the deeper truth it's meant to teach. The Magen David explains this with a parable: A king wanted his subjects to appreciate his glory, so he adorned his officers in every province with the finest clothing, using wealth from the royal treasury. He hoped people would say, "If the officers are dressed like this, how much greater must the king be!" But instead, people fixated on the officers and forgot the king entirely. This is what happens when we glorify physical wealth and forget that it's merely a tool to help us appreciate the infinitely greater glory of Torah. Another pitfall comes when people view mitzvot as mere tools to achieve physical rewards. For example, someone may take on a 40-day acceptance to refrain from lashon hara in hopes of achieving a personal salvation. In such cases, the mitzvah becomes a means to an end — the salvation is the focus, not the growth. But this perspective is flawed. Physical rewards are minor side effects of the real reward — the mitzvah itself. No worldly pleasure could ever equal the spiritual elevation one receives from performing even the smallest mitzvah. If someone doesn't receive the outcome they were hoping for, they should still rejoice in the merit of having fulfilled a mitzvah. And if the desired outcome is granted, it should not diminish the value of the mitzvah, nor should one think it was only worthwhile because it "worked." The mitzvah brings a person closer to Hashem, elevates the neshama , and yields eternal benefit. The Chatam Sofer writes, to truly benefit from a mitzvah, one must first value it. Chazal tell us that tzitzit protect a person from sin — yet some wonder why they don't feel that protection. One reason might be a lack of appreciation for the mitzvah itself. If we don't value our mitzvot, we don't engage with them fully — and we miss out on their spiritual power. The same is true for all mitzvot. If a teacher of Torah to children understood that the world stands in the merit of what he is doing, he would never interrupt his class to check a message. If he truly internalized what the Kav HaYashar teaches — that 18,000 angels gather the words spoken by children learning Torah — he would not trade his role for anything in the world. Every word of Torah we learn is more precious than any material success this world can offer. Let us take the time to appreciate what we are privileged to do each day and thank Hashem for the indescribable zechut of sharing in His most precious gift — the Torah.

Rabbi Rebecca Schatz's Shabbat Teaching at Temple Beth Am, Los Angeles, May 24, 2025. (Youtube/Zoom)

Lag Baomer/Parshas Emor"Who is wise- one who learns from every person”- Pirkei Avot.

Emoções#4 PIRKEI AVOT , ÉTICA DOS PAISCURTIU A AULA?FAÇA UM PIX RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM E NOS AJUDE A DARMOS SEQUÊNCIA!#mistica #judaismo #fe #almajudaica #D'us #Deus #Kedusha #tzadik #Tsadik #hashem #emuna #teshuvah #emunah #judaismo #chassidut #mistica #leijudaica #rambam #maimonides #halacha #ahava #amor #torah #rebe #rebbe #respeito #midot #Akiva #lagbaomer #avot #pirkeiavot #humildade #arrogância #brigas #amor

Rabbi-Dr. Michael Berenbaum's Shabbat Teaching at Temple Beth Am, Los Angeles, May 10, 2025. (Youtube) Special Guest: Rabbi Michael Berenbaum.

Por que muitos AMORES terminam em BRIGAS? Como dois IRMÃOS podem BRIGAR?Emoções#4 PIRKEI AVOT , ÉTICA DOS PAIS CAP. 4CURTIU A AULA?FAÇA UM PIX RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM E NOS AJUDE A DARMOS SEQUÊNCIA!#mistica #judaismo #fe #almajudaica #D'us #Deus #Kedusha #tzadik #Tsadik #hashem #emuna #teshuvah #emunah #judaismo #chassidut #mistica #leijudaica #rambam #maimonides #halacha #ahava #amor #torah #rebe #rebbe #respeito #midot #Akiva #lagbaomer #avot #pirkeiavot #humildade #arrogância #brigas #amor

Pirkei Avot 2:12 "All-Encompassing Avodah" by Rabbi Avi Harari

Minhagim During The Omer - Pirkei Avot by Rabbi Avi Harari

O que te deixa NERVOSO? ÓDIO gratuito tem cura?Emoções#3PIRKEI AVOT - ÉTICA DOS PAISCURTIU A AULA?FAÇA UM PIX RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM E NOS AJUDE A DARMOS SEQUÊNCIA!#mistica #judaismo #fe #almajudaica #D'us #Deus #Kedusha #tzadik #Tsadik #hashem #emuna #teshuvah #emunah #judaismo #chassidut #mistica #leijudaica #rambam #maimonides #halacha #ahava #amor #torah #rebe #rebbe #respeito #midot #Akiva #lagbaomer #avot #pirkeiavot #humildade #arrogância

Amarás o próximo como a ti mesmo, é possível?Emoções#2 PIRKEI AVOT = ÉTICA DOS PAISAMOR AO PROXIMO A base de toda a Torá é "amarás o próximo como a si mesmo", explicam nossos Sábios, que esse preceito inclui 5 maneiras de cumprir:Receber hospedes em casa; Apoio e ajuda aos Noivos a fazerem um lindo e alegre casamento; Visita aos enfermos; Preparação e enterro dos falecidos; Consolo aos enlutadosCURTIU A AULA?FAÇA UM PIX RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM E NOS AJUDE A DARMOS SEQUÊNCIA!#mistica #judaismo #fe #almajudaica #D'us #Deus #Kedusha #tzadik #Tsadik #hashem #emuna #teshuvah #emunah #judaismo #chassidut #mistica #leijudaica #rambam #maimonides #halacha #ahava #amor #torah #rebe #rebbe #respeito #midot #Akiva

ARROGÂNCIA & Humildade - PIRKEI AVOT Emoções#1 AMOR AO PROXIMO A base de toda a Torá é "amarás o próximo como a si mesmo", explicam nossos Sábios, que esse preceito inclui 5 maneiras de cumprir:Receber hospedes em casa; Apoio e ajuda aos Noivos a fazerem um lindo e alegre casamento; Visita aos enfermos; Preparação e enterro dos falecidos; Consolo aos enlutadosCURTIU A AULA?FAÇA UM PIX RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM E NOS AJUDE A DARMOS SEQUÊNCIA!#mistica #judaismo #fe #almajudaica #D'us #Deus #Kedusha #tzadik #Tsadik #hashem #emuna #teshuvah #emunah #judaismo #chassidut #mistica #leijudaica #rambam #maimonides #halacha #ahava #amor #torah #rebe #rebbe #respeito #midot #Akiva #lagbaomer #avot #pirkeiavot #humildade #arrogância

Lets explore a powerful and timeless topic — the coming of the Messiah. Why is belief in the Messiah so central to Jewish faith? How does it shape our daily lives, our hopes, and our future?We'll discuss:What Judaism teaches about the coming of the MessiahWhy belief in the Messiah isn't just about the future — it's about how we live todayThe emotional and spiritual strength that comes from believing in redemptionHow hope for a better world drives personal growth and communal unityIf you liked this, you'll love my book Living Beautifully - how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot

Welcome to our daily Bitachon class as we are continue with the Haggadah, even though we're past the Seder , with important lessons that are timely. In the piece Baruch Shomer Havtachato we quote the Brit Ben HaBetarim where Hashem tells Avraham, Your children are going to be sojourners in a land that's not theirs, work for 400 years and toil. A nd also the nation that's going to work them, Dan Anokhi, I'm going to judge them." Rabbenu Yonah quotes this pasuk with an important lesson in his commentary to Pirkei Avot , Perek 1 Mishna 15 where the Tanna tells us אמור מעט ועשה הרבה. / Say a little and do a lot Rabbenu Yonah explains, כשתבטיח את חבירך לעשות בעבורו דבר, אמור לו מעט ועשה הרבה, והוא מדרך המוסר והחסידות,. /When you guarantee your friend (we're getting in the wording of Baruch Shomer Havtachato ) to do something, say a little bit and do a lot. This is the way of Musar , it's the way of Hasidut . You don't say I'm going to give you a million dollars. Say, I'll help you out with your house, I'll give you a hundred thousand and then you give the guy the million. Where do we learn this from? ולמדנו אותו מאברהם אבינו ע"ה שאמר, "ואקחה פת לחם" (בראשית יח, ה-ח) ואחר כך, "ויקח חמאה וחלב ובן הבקר אשר עשה" We learn it form Avraham Avinu , who said, I'll get some bread, and he ended up getting butter milk, and the cow. This is a very high midah. It's learned from Hashem , as are all our great Middot . Havei Domeh Lo , We have to be like Him. Hashem has these Middot . Where do we see it? Say Chazal , in Avot d'Rabbi Natan , למדוהו מהבורא ית' שלא הבטיח אלא בשתי אותיות שנאמר (בראשית טו, יד), "דן אנכי", - וגאלם בעשרים ושבעה מלות, Hashem promised Avraham Avinu with two words, Dan Anokhi , but He he ended up redeeming them with 27 words… הנסה אלקים לבוא לקחת לו גוי מקרב …גו" או I n Devarim 4,34, He uses so many words to describe how He punished the goyim . Not just the two words, Dan Anokhi . It developed into so many more words. And Rav Saadia Gaon says something unbelievable: . אם כשהבטיח את אבותינו בשני אותיות נעשה להם כמה נסים ונפלאות, על הגאולה העתידה לבוא שנכתבו בה כמה דפין וכמה קונדריסין וכמה ספרים מהבטחות, וכמה נחמות בישעיה, ירמיה, יחזקאל, ותרי עשר, על אחת כמה וכמה כי נפלאים יהיו מעשיו ונפשינו יודעת מאד, Hashem promised our forefathers with two words (Dan Anochi), And yet how many wonders, how many miracles, which are 50, which are 250, broken down over here, from two words. So on the redemption that's going to come in the future, how many pages? How many notebooks? how many books? How many promises are there? How much consolation is there? In Yeshaya, Yirmiyah, Yehezkiel and Tre Asar? The Navi is full of promises and comforts. Imagine what that's going to be- exponentially. It's going to be wondrous. How wondrous His deeds are going to be, and we're going to know it good and well. What does that have to do with us, every day of our lives? ויש לאדם לחשוב בדבר ולתת אותו אל לבו כי שכר גדול יהיה לו מפני הבטחון/ Think about this. and to put it on your heart. You get great reward from the bitachon, great reward from relying on Hashem about these things. This is something extremely important. When you sit down and learn some Navi , and you read of the promises, say , I believe that. I know Hashem is Baruch Shomei Havtachato, He keeps it. History proves it. Look what two words did! Now imagine what we're getting in the future. That is an opportunity. Rav Yerucham Levovitz, in his sefer , Daat Chochma U'Musar , volume 3, page 2, says something unbelievable. He says there is a fundamental way that Hashem acts. First, He promises. Why does He promise? Why does He guarantee? The reason is that the one that was guaranteed this will have full faith, and feel guaranteed. And that's what brings about the fulfillment. Hashem promises, and then we earn the zechut, by relying on Him. That's what makes it come true. He says, that's the only way it happens. He says this is an important understanding of the ways of Hashem, and it's a tremendous foundation. You can't get there if you don't go through the emunah and bitachon . And in order to exercise emunah and bitachon , Hashem gives us a havtacha , He gives us a guarantee , And our job is to be batuach , to feel guaranteed in His promise. He says that's what happened with Avraham Avinu . In Bereshit 15:6 .it says וְהֶאֱמִ֖ן בַּֽיהֹוָ֑ה וַיַּחְשְׁבֶ֥הָ לּ֖וֹ צְדָקָֽה׃ / This emunah gave Avraham Sedaka , meaning it gave us righteousness . And if we'd be lacking in that, we wouldn't have the fulfillment of the promise. He says we see the same concept by Yetziyat Mitzrayim . In Shemot 6,7-9 , where it says, Vyedatem Ki Ani Hashem/ And you will know I am Hashem, the Seforno says, Your job is to think and delve that all of this is going to come true. Because if I am the All-powerful, supervising God, there's no question I'll do what I promised. I'm going to bring it upon you. And when you think about this, then you'll be fit that I bring it about. So why didn't it happen right away? Because They were enslaved in work and therefore not able to have bitachon, like Avraham Avinu who did have the bitachon . Rav Yerucham says something fascinating – It was not their fault. The Torah says clearly that it was not their fault. They couldn't have bitachon because they were so oppressed. But he says, that's the system. That's the way it works. You need to have bitachon . And if you don't have bitachon , we can't bring it about. That's Darkei Hashem Yitbarach / the way of Hashem. You can't get anything unless you first rely on Hashem. That's the way Hashem works. And if you're missing a little bitachon , it's not going to come through. Rav Yerucham continues and says, every step of Yetziat Mitzrayim worked like this. He quotes another Seforno , on the pasuk in Shemot 12,11 where it talks about how to eat the korban Pesach - With girded loins, your shoes on your feet, your stick in your hand. Why? Says the Seforno, To show their reliance, without a doubt, to Hashem. They were ready to get on the road, ready to leave the jail while in the jail! Hashem set it up. Like the Gemara in Eruvim , 22A says, Hayom la'Asotam , Today we do, Machar lekabel sachar, Tomorrow we get paid off . Why did Hashem set it up that way? Because that's our Avodah , to work hard here, not to see anything and believe it's going to happen in the future. He goes on and says, when they went out into the desert, the pasuk in Shemot 12,39 says, Sedah lo Asu lahem / They did not prepare provisions for themselves. Rashi says, This tells the praise of Jewish people. They didn't say 'How can we go out to a desert without any food?' They relied on Hashem , they went out, and that's why Hashem says, I remember the kindness of youth, when you followed Me into the deser t. He says, this level of emunah only happens if a person has bitachon , bli safek klal , with no doubt at all . He has it in actuality . It's not in theory, he has it in his pocket. That's how we went out. How do you take your family out to the desert? Because I see the food in front of me.

Welcome to our daily bitachon class. As our community is reeling from the tragedies that occurred on Shabbat , I'd like to leave our Haggadah discussion for the day. There's a story that's told over that a skit or a play about a certain tragic event during the times of the Holocaust was shown, and people were extremely moved. They all cried and were very jarred from the play. Somebody asked the Brisker Rav , why it was that when people heard about the Holocaust, and how six million Jews died, they were not bawling and crying, but they were bawling and crying from this small skit of what happened. Rav Brisker answered that if you have a very large piano that you're trying to get it into the house, as much you turn and twist, the piano won't get in. But if you have something smaller, you can get it in. This is similar to our brains, which are made in such a way that it has a certain capacity to hold things, and certain things, it just can't hold. Something of with the magnitude of the Holocaust can't be held, but when a smaller snip of a larger tragedy comes by a person, they're able to hold it and process it and that causes the emotions to flow. And when a tragedy of the magnitude where a mother and two children are killed in such a sudden way, the term is used Alah Mavet beChaloneinu/Death has come through our window. The Rabbanim explain that when someone comes into a house, they usually knock on the door. That's the regular way of doing things. Coming through the window means you snuck in. So Alah mavet bechaloneinu/Death came through the window means there was no warning. There was no sickness. Someone was taking a walk on a Shabbat afternoon with their family, and this came out nowhere, and something like that is just too big to process. It's too big to figure out, especially in the early stages, when people are looking for answers. But there really is no answer. It's really just a time for emotion and crying. The Mishnah in Pirkei Avot , Perek 4 , Mishnah 18 tells us Rav Shimon ben Elazar says וְאַל תְּנַחֲמֶ נּוּ בְּשָׁעָה שֶׁמֵּתוֹ מֻטָּל לְפָנָיו / Al tenachamenu B'shaah shemeto mutal lefanav / Do not comfort someone when the dead is still lying there. Rabbenu Yonah explains that because at this point in time, trying to comfort the person is just going to cause anger, and cause the person to say things he doesn't want to say. The Sefer Midrash Shemuel says more than that, B'vadai yimna milhitnachem . He will for sure refuse to be comforted, to accept the will of God. If anything, the person might say improper statements. Nechama means comfort . But as we've said in the past, nechama also means to have a different look at things . Rashi says vayeinachem means God looked at it differently. Nachum Ish Gamzu , said Gamzu l'tova , and the root of his name is Nachum , which we call a reframe , But there are times when there's no place for a reframe. It's too raw and too big for a reframe, and at those times, there is nothing to be said. That's why, quite often Rabbis are put in the position to answer the question, What's going on here ? In other words, Rabbi , reframe this for me. And the answer is, Right now is not a time for that. It's not a time for looking for answers. It's a time to cry. It's a time to stay with this shock and the emotion of what happened and process it and see if it can somehow get inside of you. A lot of times when we're looking for those answers, we're trying to get rid of that uncomfortable feeling of sadness, of confusion, because it's too hard to deal with. So answer it for me. But it's not the time. The sefer Mili DeAvot on that same Mishnah in Pirkei Avot brings a proof from Hashem. He quoted the Yalkut Shimoni in Yeshayah , where it says in Yeshayah 22:12, Hashem calls out to the angels to cry, to bemoan that the Bet HaMikdash was destroyed. And it says Bikshu malachim l'nachamo , the angels wanted to comfort God, V'lo ratza lehitnachem / And God did not want to be comforted. And it goes on to say, Al ta'itzu l'nachameni / Do not try, don't push yourselves not to give Me comfort . It's not the time. That's my little thought for today. I don't feel it's the right time for people to start looking for answers or reframes or comfort. It's too early. It's too raw. It's a time to sit with that emotion of sadness. And although it may sound like it, I'm not coming from a therapeutic approach. This is a Mishnah in Pirkei Avot based on Rishonim . Now, if it sounds like it rings from the world of therapy, that's because Torah was here before therapy, and there's a time for mourning and there's a time for crying. And as uncomfortable it may be to sit with these emotions of sadness and questions, and whatever it may be, that's really what one is supposed to be doing right now. We don't like to cry, but it's a time to cry.

Rav Segal ensina o livro do Maharal sobre Pirkei Avot, o Derech Chaim.

At the very northern edge of Israel, the town of Maalot-Tarshiha sits overlooking the Galilee. The warmth of the people, the spectacular scenery, and the wisdom from Rabbi Weizman make Maalot a destination for Israelis and tourists.Iris Haski owns and operates a guest house in Maalot. For more information or to book accommodations, click here: https://www.booking.com/Share-FNh9K1 or call (or WhatsApp) Iris at +972545826682 and mention that you heard about her guest house from Shmuel Bowman.

Jesus sees a woman and is moved with compassion to respond. But what about all the other women, humans, creatures, who also needed his compassionate response??? And what about the root causes of her suffering - Shouldn't he have fixed the systems instead??? Jesus sees a woman - really looks at her - and is moved to respond. May we who seek to follow Jesus do the same. May we, out of (legitimate!) concern for scalability and systems, never overthink our way to paralysis when given the opportunity and impulse to respond with compassion. Goodness knows, our country and our world need all the compassion that each one of us can muster.Sermon begins at minute marker 6:02Luke 7:1-17ResourcesBibleWorm podcast: Episode 625 – A Centurion's Slave and a Widow's Son, Amy Robertson and Robert Williamson, Jr“A Jesus Who Troubles,” sermon on this text by Pastor Megan Ramer (sermon begins at minute 15:35), 2021."Do not be daunted by the enormity of the world's grief. Do justly, now. Love mercy, now. Walk humbly, now. You are not obligated to complete the work, but neither are you free to abandon it." (Rabbi Tarfon, from the Pirkei Avot, 2:16)“Blessing in the Chaos,” by Jan Richardson; also appears in her book The Cure for Sorrow: A Book of Blessings for Times of Grief (79), 2016.Kate Bowler quote, from an instagram reel, February 2025.Vivek Murthy quote, taken from the Kate Bowler reel linked above.VT Hymn 647, There Is A Balm in Gilead. Text & Music: African American Spiritual. Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from ONE LICENSE, license #A-726929. All rights reserved.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Morning Blessings (Birkot HaShachar)—a powerful series of prayers that set the tone for the day. These blessings, recited each morning, guide us in cultivating gratitude, mindfulness, and connection with the world around us. We'll explore their meaning, how they shape our mindset, and practical ways to integrate their lessons into our daily lives. Key Takeaways:

Judaism gives us the tools to hold both joy and pain simultaneously. Few understand this better than Rabba Yaffa Epstein, The Jewish Education Project's Senior Scholar and Educator in Residence, who tragically lost her nephew, Yakir Hexter z”l, while fighting in Gaza one year ago.  Yakir was much more than a soldier—he was a brilliant Torah student, a talented artist, an athlete, and a bartender with his own signature cocktail. In this week's episode of Adapting, Rabba Yaffa shares Torah in Yakir's memory, drawing wisdom from Ben Zoma in Pirkei Avot and from Yakir himself, emphasizing the responsibility we all have as spectators to step in and make a difference. Rabba Yaffa juxtaposes her grief with welcoming a beautiful baby girl named in Yakir's honor within the same week, reminding us that we can find light and inspiration even in the darkest of times. This episode was produced by Dina Nusnbaum and Miranda Lapides. The show's executive producers are David Bryfman, Karen Cummins, and Nessa Liben. This episode was engineered and edited by Nathan J. Vaughan of NJV Media. If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star rating and review, or even better, share it with a friend. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and be the first to know when new episodes are released. To learn more about The Jewish Education Project visit jewishedproject.org where you can find links to our Jewish Educator Portal and learn more about our mission, history, and staff. We are a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York. 

In this heartwarming episode, we dive into the power of morning prayers to set the tone for your day. Today's focus? Self-appreciation and understanding. Life gets busy, and we often overlook the most important relationship we have: the one with ourselves. These simple yet profound prayers are designed to help you connect with your inner self, embrace your uniqueness, and find peace in the present moment.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the universal struggle with prayer. Why does it sometimes feel so hard to connect, to find the words, or to stay consistent in prayer? Together, we explore the deep spiritual dynamics that can make prayer challenging and uncover the profound insights behind two distinct types of prayer: the Leah prayer and the Rachel prayer. We discuss: - The Struggle to Pray: Common reasons why people find it difficult to pray, from distractions and doubt to feelings of inadequacy or a lack of connection. - Leah vs. Rachel Prayer: The difference between the personal, Leah prayer and the global Rachel prayer. Whether you're a seasoned prayer warrior or just starting to reconnect with your spiritual side, this episode offers relatable insights and actionable ideas to deepen your prayer life. Connect with Us:We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts on prayer and which type of prayer resonates most with you. Connect with us on Instagram @itsgilaross or send us an email at gilaross@gmail.com . Don't Miss an Episode!Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review to help others discover the show.

If a person gets taken advantage of or is wronged by another individual or business and then the person sees how much that other individual or business is flourishing as a result, he may begin to feel that it pays to do the wrong thing because those who do, get away with it and enjoy from it. But there could be nothing further from the truth. The Mishnah says in Pirkei Avot that Hashem who created the world and sees everything that goes on, He is also the Judge, the Witness and the Plaintiff. He never forgets anything. He does not show favoritism in judgment and He cannot be bribed. And for everything that people do, they are held accountable. The yetzer hara makes a person think that he can do wrong and get away with it, but the Mishnah warns, אל יבטיתך יצרך – a person should not let his yetzer hara convince him that he could escape, because Hashem is the most righteous and fairest Judge. Everybody will get what is coming to them. If someone was taken advantage of and was meant to have the money that was stolen from him, he'll get it back. And if it was not meant for him, then the one who took advantage of him was just acting as a messenger to take away what wasn't his. However, that messenger is fully held accountable for choosing to do wrong and will be brought to justice for the crime unless he makes teshuva . It may appear that people get away with things for years, but that does not mean that Hashem is not holding them accountable. When the goblet was found in the sack of Binyamin and the Shevatim had to return to the viceroy, Yehuda told him, "What can we say? האלוקים מצא עוון עבדיך - Hashem has found the sin of your servant." Why was Yehuda speaking about Hashem to this leader? Because Yehuda knew, everything happens only from Hashem. And if they were suffering this torment, it must be because of an avon they committed. He was regretting selling Yosef as a slave now, seeing that he and his brothers may also become slaves. This episode took place 22 years after they sold Yosef, yet Yehuda saw it as a clear consequence for that action. Sometimes Hashem brings kapara to a person shortly after he sinned, sometimes it takes years, sometimes decades and sometimes not until in the Next World, but every action that a person does is always taken into account and nothing ever goes unnoticed. Therefore, we should feel calm, knowing that no matter what other people do or try to do to us, we are always in Hashem's hands and He is the fairest, most righteous Judge. Moreover, we should never let our evil inclination convince us to do wrong or take revenge because there is accountability. Those who harmed us will not get away with it. And we should never harm others either. Our sole focus should always be doing the will of Hashem. And if we do, we will always come out on top.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this heartfelt episode, we dive into the beauty, challenges, and questions surrounding prayer. Whether you're new to prayer, struggling to find meaning, or looking for ways to deepen your connection, this episode offers insights, encouragement, and practical guidance. We'll explore: The purpose and power of prayer. What to do when your prayers feel unanswered. FAQs: Common questions people ask about prayer. Join us as we uncover the timeless wisdom behind prayer and discover how it can be a transformative tool in your spiritual journey. Prayer is a deeply personal journey. It's okay to have questions, moments of doubt, or challenges. The important thing is to keep showing up and finding ways to make prayer meaningful for you. Follow us on Instagram: @itsgilaross Have questions about prayer? Email us at gilaross@gmail.com.

How familiar are you with Torah? It's an important question because a lot of people simply remember the grand journey Moses takes and how he leads the people to Israel, and boom! You have the Torah. But it's so much more. In fact, outside of the 5 books of Moses you have The Talmud and Kabbalah and you have Pirkei Avot and you have this thing called Oral Torah versus Written Torah. Somewhere within the wide scope of what's considered Torah, you'll come across this book and wonder what's so special about this guy named Zohar.  The mysteries and wisdom of The Zohar is well known and studied by Rabbi Natan Halevy. His precise and detailed work has been a lifetime achievement passed down from generation to generation within his family. Rabbi Halevy teaches Chaz Volk, host of Bad Jew, the depths, teachings, and relevance of this essential piece in Jewish literature.   00:00 Introduction 07:13 Oral Torah 10:04 Essential teachings 14:53 The power in reading 19:04 Zohar predicts cell phone addiction 22:30 Connection to Israel, Torah, and God deeply 24:39 Balancing study with life's responsibilities is challenging. 28:08 Alleviating depression, spreading holiness. 32:42 God's existence is fundamental 33:41 Practicing mystical teachings today About Rabbi Natan Halevy: I grew up in Los Angeles, and with my parents and siblings, attended Kahal Joseph where I had my Bar Mitzvah in 1994. As the child of Iraqi parents, I have a powerful sense of the strong culture and traditon I come from. In 2005 I received my Rabbinical ordination from Rabbi Yitchak Yaroslavsky at Yeshivat Tomchei Tmimim in Israel. I then served as an assistant Rabbi in Chabad of Great Neck, NY before I returned to Los Angeles in 2008. I love studying all facets of Torah—from the Bible to the Talmud to the inner parts of Torah. I also have knowledge of many other modalities and philosophies that I feel may support us as Jews and people in this modern day and age. My wife Bracha and our children – Yosef Hayim, Menucha, Menachem, Noam, and Shimon – are very happy to be working with the wonderful Kahal Joseph community. Contact Rabbi Natan Halevy: RabbiHaLevy@KahalJoseph.org IG @kahaljoseph SPECIAL THANKS TO THE SPONSOR OF THIS EPISODE: JEWISH BIG BROTHERS AND BIG SISTERS OF LOS ANGELES! Become a big today! JBBBSLA.org/mentorship Connect with Bad Jew:  BadJew.co https://linktr.ee/badjew BadJewPod@gmail.com Ig @BadJewPod TikTok @BadJewPod

Wisdom for achieving real job satisfaction, and warnings about insincere fame

Hi everyone! Welcome back to another episode of The Chai on Life Podcast. I'm Alex Segal, and today I am so excited to have Ruchi Koval on to speak all about her latest book, Soul Purpose.Ruchi is a parenting coach and motivational speaker who has inspired personal transformation in thousands of people. She is the co-founder and Associate Director of the Jewish Family Experience, an innovative shul and outreach community in Cleveland, Ohio. She has been a Jewish educator for two decades, leading self-development mussar groups for adults and teens, and mentoring educators around the world. Ruchi is also a musician, author, mother of 7, and grandmother. She is a Momentum Educator, inspiring thousands of women on their journeys in Israel. She is also the author of three books: "Conversations with God," “Soul Construction,” and her newest book, “Soul Purpose,” as we mentioned which was just released a couple months ago. Find Ruchi on Instagram; on her blog at outoftheorthobox.com; and her two podcasts. Download her “Ruchi Koval” app to listen to many of her lectures online. Soul Purpose takes the teachings of Pirkei Avot and makes them way more approachable. Each day in the 365-day daily reader takes a line from Pirkei Avot and explains it in layman's terms, helping anyone understand its meaning more coherently and effectively. Each entry ends with an intention so you can really go into your day thinking about the idea further and applying the teaching to your own life in a practical way.If you want to listen to Ruchi read each entry, you can join the WhatsApp group she mentioned here:https://chat.whatsapp.com/FSylDrVqdFRBpw0bkF2qyXIf there is someone you want to see on The Chai on Life Podcast, email me at alex@chaionlifemag.com or send me a DM @chaionlifemag. Thanks again, see you next week!

Chanukah is a time of light, celebration, and reflection, but its message goes deeper than oil that lasted eight days. It's a story that beautifully weaves together miracles from above and the incredible power of human effort. In this episode, we dive into the dual lessons of Chanukah: recognizing divine intervention while embracing the transformative power of self-help and personal initiative. Join us as we explore: The balance between relying on miracles and taking action in our own lives. How the Maccabees' courage and determination are a blueprint for resilience and self-reliance. Ways we can apply these lessons to overcome challenges and light up our own lives. The enduring relevance of Chanukah's message in today's world. Reflection Questions: How do you balance taking initiative with trusting in forces beyond your control? Have you ever experienced a “miracle” that began with your own effort? What steps can you take to create light in your own life and for those around you? Actionable Tips: Start Small: Just as the Maccabees did, take one bold step toward your goal and trust the process. Notice the Miracles: Reflect on moments in your life where unexpected help or outcomes emerged. Connect With Us: Follow us on Instagram @itsgilaross for more insights and inspiration. Share your Chanukah reflections or personal stories of miracles at gilaross@gmail.com Chanukah teaches us that while we can hope for miracles, we also have the power to create them. Tune in to learn how this timeless lesson can bring light and strength into your life! For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

Deep dive into the wisdom of Hanukkah, with nostalgic "favourite Hanukkah memories"

We celebrate the "new year" of Hassidut (a revolution in Jewish feeling), and do a deep dive into the idea of being a witness - in court and in life.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq Chanukah isn't just a celebration of miracles and light; it's also a profound lesson about the different kinds of illumination we bring to our lives. In this episode, we explore the two types of lights we see in life and what it teches us about the daily grind of consistency and the moments of unexpected brilliance. Join us as we discuss: - The symbolic meaning of the menorah's lights and their relevance to our personal journeys. - How consistency in small, everyday actions creates the foundation for meaningful living. Reflection Questions: - How do you stay consistent in your daily responsibilities and routines? - When was the last time you experienced a moment of “miraculous” inspiration? - How can you bring more light—both steady and extraordinary—into your life and the lives of others? Connect With Us: - Follow us on Instagram @itsgilaross and Facebook for more insights into the wisdom of Chanukah and beyond. - Share your reflections or stories of light and miracles at gilaross@gmail.com This Chanukah, let's learn to honor the grind while celebrating the sparks of the miraculous. Tune in to find the inspiration to light up your life every day!

Last week, AJC CEO Ted Deutch traveled to Philadelphia to meet with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for an in-depth discussion on combating antisemitism, ensuring the future vitality of Jewish communities in Pennsylvania and beyond, and addressing the challenges posed by rising political polarization both locally and nationally. “When it comes to antisemitism . . . there is no nuance. Antisemitism, bigotry, and hatred in all forms is not okay. Everyone in a position of public trust . . . has a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity and speak out against it,” said Governor Shapiro. AJC is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. AJC neither supports nor opposes candidates for elective office. Watch: AJC CEO Ted Deutch, Gov. Josh Shapiro Say Fight Against Antisemitism Must Be Bipartisan Listen – AJC Podcasts: The Forgotten Exodus: with Hen Mazzig, Einat Admony, and more. People of the Pod:  Mijal Bitton on What It Means to Be a Jew Today The Next Chapter in Catholic-Jewish Relations What's Next for the Abraham Accords Under President Trump? Honoring Israel's Lone Soldiers This Thanksgiving: Celebrating Service and Sacrifice Away from Home The ICC Issues Arrest Warrants: What You Need to Know Follow People of the Pod on your favorite podcast app, and learn more at AJC.org/PeopleofthePod You can reach us at: peopleofthepod@ajc.org If you've appreciated this episode, please be sure to tell your friends, and rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. __ Transcript of Conversation with Ted Detuch and Josh Shapiro: Manya Brachear Pashman: Last week, AJC CEO Ted Deutch traveled to Philadelphia and sat down with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro for a conversation about antisemitism, the future of Jewish communities in Pennsylvania and across the nation, and growing political polarization not only in Philadelphia but throughout the country. The conversation was so powerful, we wanted to share it with a wider audience. So, I turn it over to Ted and Governor Shapiro.  Ted Deutch:   I'm going to start just by fessing up to something that I tried to do, that I fortunately failed at. I don't often tout my failure, but there was a time some number of years ago, Governor, where I thought that your future should take you to the United States House of Representatives. I tried to convince you to run for Congress, and you had other plans. Fast forward many years, thank God I was wrong, and thank you for the remarkable job you've done as governor of Pennsylvania.  Josh Shapiro:   Thank you. It's so good to be with you.  Ted Deutch:   Obviously, it's a really great to be with you. But I had, I wanted to break the ice just a little bit, if I may, with just some quick questions, just to lose, just to loosen you up a little, if that's alright. Josh Shapiro:   Do I not seem loose? I feel pretty loose.  Ted Deutch:   Alright, very quickly. Favorite eagle of all time? Josh Shapiro:   You know what I was on Eagles pregame live just yesterday, before the Birds played the Steelers. Birds beat the Steelers, by the way. And I got to sit next to Jaws. Ron Jaworski, and like, it was just a normal day. I was a little bit starstruck. So I guess I'd go with Jaws. Yeah.  Ted Deutch:   Alright. Better play-by-play announcer– Merrill Reese, Gene Hart? Josh Shapiro:   Oh my God, come on. All right. That's like asking me to pick between my kids. Ted Deutch:   Alright, I'll move on. Moving on, moving on, moving on. Some people here who don't, the handful who don't really get this at all, and my staff, who's saying, why are you doing this. Josh Shapiro:   Merrill Reese by the way is about to get inducted into the Hall of Fame for, they do once a year, they do an announcer, and Merrill just won that award this year. Pretty amazing.  Ted Deutch:   He is amazing. Best Philly movie ever made?  Josh Shapiro:   Rocky. Ted Deutch:   Easy. Thank you. Inappropriate question, perhaps at an AJC dinner, provolone or swiss? Josh Shapiro:   I do enjoy provolone, but I'm not a cheesesteak guy, so. We have a kosher governor's residence. I can't be out eating cheesesteaks.  Ted Deutch:   It was a bit of a trick question, I'll admit. And then we'll just finish this off. Favorite Israeli food? Josh Shapiro:   Falafel, but not from some fancy restaurant, though I do love Goldies and I love Michael, but on some like stand in the middle of nowhere in Israel, it's always delicious. Ted Deutch:   This also gives me an opportunity to acknowledge Tsach Saar, who is the Consul General of Israel. Thank you very much for being here. All right, I tried. Thanks for playing along.  Josh Shapiro:   Did I not do well? You did try.  Ted Deutch:  You did great. You did great. Thank you.  Josh Shapiro:   No more lightning round? Ted Deutch:  I have more. Josh Shapiro:   Now we got to do this serious stuff? Ted Deutch:   We do. And frankly, look, your answer to the silly question about cheesesteaks is the perfect lead in to my first question for you. The first governor, I grew up in Bethlehem, the first governor I remember was governor Milton Shapp, who was born Milton Shapiro. So in that respect, you're actually the second Governor Shapiro in Pennsylvania's history. He was governor from 1971 to 79.  But you are Governor Shapiro. You're a proud Jew who dismisses a question about cheesesteaks because you have a kosher home. You quote Pirkei Avot in your life as governor and the speeches that you give. It's so clear, and we and everyone has come to know how important Shabbat dinner is for you, with your family. Your Judaism matters to you a lot, and for those of us who are so involved in the community, it's something that obviously we admire. But I would love to hear a little bit more about how it informs what you do and why it's so important. Josh Shapiro:   I want to just say on a serious note, how grateful I am to AJC for the important work that you do every day, how grateful I am to Ted, who's been a friend for more than a decade. How thankful I am to the leaders here who raise money and do this important work. For Mark, who I think asked me to do this like a year ago, and has checked in with me each month to make sure he's going to do it. I'm proud to do it, and to the Liebmans, and everyone, I appreciate what you all do.  I just celebrated, Lori noted the other night that I've been in public office for 20 years, and I'm a proud public servant. I think public service is a noble profession, and the reason I am in public service, it's fitting that my dad is here tonight, is because of my family and because of my faith. Both draw me to service. Our faith teaches us that, as you mentioned, I quote Pirkei Avot. I quote it in a synagogue. I'll quote it at a Kiwanis Club. I was proud to quote it from the pulpit at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, just a couple months ago, that no one is required to complete the task, but neither are we free to refrain from it. Meaning each of us has a responsibility to get off the sidelines, get in the game and do our part.  Now, doing our part can come in a lot of different ways. Some people do their part in a courtroom. Some people do their part in a business. Some people do their part through charitable work, like here at AJC. For me, my part is through public service. My part is through serving my community, and I'm honored to do it. I share that with you because as I was getting ready to launch my campaign for governor, you may recall I was attorney general at the time, a group of us came together and said, Well, how do we want to kind of reintroduce you to the good people of Pennsylvania as you launch your campaign? You could start by talking about a policy or for some initiative you want to get past, but actually what I wanted to do was talk about the issue I just mentioned to you, what drew me to want to serve in the first place. Why I was even contemplating running to be your governor.  And so we had a long conversation about what motivates me, Ted, and why I do this. To me, being able to bring together family and faith was really important, and the best way to show that is by doing what I do every single Friday night since I was a kid, and what we continue to do, and that is having Shabbat dinner with my family.  And so the first ad in my campaign was all of us sitting around the Shabbat dinner table. Now, fun fact for all of you, I think we filmed it like on a Tuesday, so it really wasn't Shabbat. My kids remind me of that, but we did have everything on the table. And what was so interesting about it was, after the ad started running, and I would show up in communities where there aren't a lot of Jews, if any Jews, in Pennsylvania. Folks would grab me and say, Hey, I saw your ad. That was great. I want to tell you what Sunday lunch is like after I get home from church. I want to tell you what Christmas dinner is like in our family. I want you to know what we experience when we leave our place of worship.  And in a lot of ways, it actually brought me closer together with the community. We were able to see one another in a deeper way. I think faith has allowed me to get into living rooms and conversations and communities in a much deeper way than perhaps I ever could before, as I think it is critically important if you want to be a public servant, to be true to who you are and express that to folks. So I'm proud of who I am. I'm proud of the way I've lived my life. I'm proud of the way Lori and I are raising our four children, and I appreciate the fact that the good people of Pennsylvania acknowledge that and open themselves up and share that back with me as I go out serving them as their governor.  Ted Deutch:   The importance of Shabbat dinner, part of it, obviously is your Judaism, but it also anchoring for your family. And for everyone that you interact with to know that on Friday nights, that's the time for your family. There's something there in a time of really polarizing politics and fragmentation of society, there's something there that we should learn from, right? Josh Shapiro:   I just think making sure you're committed to family, you're committed to yourself at some key moments, each day, each week, is really important. Lori and I live crazy lives right now, running all over the place. I'm not complaining. I asked for this, and I love what I do. I hope you can tell the joy that I have every day in serving you as your governor. And no matter where we are during the week, we always know, Friday night we're going to be together. We always know that it's going to be a moment where we can be with the kids and have conversations with them.  And I'll be honest with you, Ted. I mean, some of it, of course, is the prayers and the rituals and the religious aspect of it, but so much of it is just the family part of it, and being grounded in that, and knowing that that will be our moment during the week, whether we're at the governor's residence or our home in Montgomery County, we are always together Friday night, and it's something we don't compromise on. I think it's important that you've got to set those boundaries. You got to say what's important. And that's exactly what we do. Ted Deutch:   It's especially important to have time to be together in this period where, for almost 15 months, the community has really, in so many ways, struggled. We had the deadliest attack on the Jewish community since the Holocaust, the equivalent, just in terms that people in America can try to understand. The 1200 people, the equivalent of 45,000 Americans, God forbid, if you use the same ratios, the equivalent of 7000 people being taken hostage. Now still, 100 hostages still being held beneath Gaza. It's been really hard for the community.  And yes, Israel has fortunately made advances, and from a geostrategic standpoint, is doing better. But this has still been really difficult for the community, for those of us who care about Israel, and then layer on top of that, the antisemitism that we've seen, that you've been so outspoken about in the work that you do. How, again, given what's at your core, is it hard sometimes with the way that we're feeling, the way that you feel as a committed Jew, in the face of all this, to speak about it? Do you ever feel that you need to hold back because this is all so personal to you? Josh Shapiro:   I never feel like I need to hold back. I think it is always important to speak out. But I also think it is important that we have two separate conversations, one about antisemitism and the other about Israel. When it comes to antisemitism, I think it is critically important that folks understand: there is no nuance in that conversation. Antisemitism, hatred, bigotry in all forms. It is not okay.  And everyone, everyone in a position of public trust, everyone has a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity, to speak out against it, and it doesn't matter who is sharing those sentiments. If they're members of your own party, if they're people who you otherwise might agree with on some other issue, we have a responsibility to speak out against it, and we have a responsibility as a community to be unified against antisemitism, hatred, bigotry, in all forms. There is no nuance on that.  When it comes to the issue of Israel and foreign policy and Middle East policy, that's a far more gray area. And I think it is important to continue to speak out in support of Israel, and I think it is also acceptable, if one wants to respectfully criticize a policy coming from the Israeli government, there is a difference there. And so what I try and do is not hold back in any way, but to make sure folks understand we are having two different conversations.  We got to speak out and stop antisemitism in our communities, and yes, we can express an opinion as it relates to the policies in Israel or by the Israeli government. And I think it is also critically important to acknowledge the very real fact that there is antisemitism in this country. There is antisemitism in this Commonwealth, and it is on the left and it is on the right, and there is no one party that has a clean record on it, and we've got to make sure that no matter who is putting forth those words of hate, they are condemned. Ted Deutch:   AJC is fiercely non-partisan in the way that we do our work and recognize and talk constantly, try to make the point exactly the way you have. That there's antisemitism, wherever it is, we have to call it out. But that it's harder for some to see it or to call it out when it's among their friends, in their own party, than if it's in the other party. This was something that I dealt with as a member of Congress. But when it when conversations turn to you during the election and people refer to you as Genocide Josh. Josh Shapiro:   Yeah, I saw that.  Ted Deutch: Yeah. There are those, I think we have to acknowledge it's on both sides. And clearly there are those on the far left who don't want to criticize Israel, but have now taken the position that Israel essentially has no right to exist. That then bring that into that kind of language, which is clearly antisemitic in the way it's applied. How do you deal with that?  Josh Shapiro:   I must tell you, it did not upset me and it didn't affect me. What did upset me was the way those attacks against me made other people feel. As I was traveling across this commonwealth, across the country, folks would come over to me and tell me, you know, I saw what they said about you, and it was making them feel less safe in their communities. It was making them feel less safe in their schools or on their college campuses. That upset me.  And on that I felt a responsibility to try and lift them up and strengthen them, and let them know that they should be proud of who they are. I'm proud of who I am, and sort of help them brush off the noise and recognizing and I think this is an important point, that while a lot of that noise did exist, and it is empirically true that antisemitism is on the rise, and thank God for groups like AJC doing this work. The vast, vast, vast majority of people that I come across every day, they're good people. They're not bigots, they're not spewing hate, they're actually looking to try and figure out ways in which we can bring people together. That is what I see.  And so I'm comforted by that every day. I'm not offended or upset by the attacks that people make against me, even the antisemitic attacks against me. What I get upset about, what I worry about, is how it makes other people feel, and whether that causes them to retreat or causes them to maybe not do something they were going to do or not, go somewhere where they were going to go. That is upsetting to me, and I try and spend as much time as I can with the people who are affected by that, to try and make sure they have the strength to continue to go forward and lead by example in a way that gives them the strength that they need to move forward.  Ted Deutch:   And sometimes, while the overwhelming majority of people are good, I agree with you, and I think it's important for us to realize that the data tells us that the vast majority of Americans are supportive of Israel as well, and are overwhelmingly opposed to antisemitism. Small numbers can do real damage. And that's what we saw on a number of college campuses, where the the protests, some of them going back to October 8, which were not protests about, obviously, about the Israeli government, but just protests in support of Hamas, some of these protests in support of a terror group, really put people at risk.  And you were very clear in the way that you approach that, right here in Philadelphia and around the state. How should, now that we're 15 months in, AJC has worked with universities around the country to try to ensure that they're doing what they need to to fight antisemitism. From your perspective, how are they doing, how are we doing, 15 months later?  Josh Shapiro:   I commend AJC for the important work they've done on college campuses. And I don't know if John Fry is still here, the president of Temple University, and an outstanding leader who was at Drexel University for some time and now is at Temple. He's an example of a strong leader dealing with these challenges on campus. And there are others to be sure.  Look, I think it is critically important that we protect people's first amendment rights to be able to protest on campus, protest on our streets, they of course, have to follow the rules of the road, whether on campus or in a city, Commonwealth, you name it, but they should be able to express themselves. But that expression is not okay if you're violating the rules of the campus, the rules of the city or the community. It's also not okay if it puts other people at risk. Universities have a moral and a legal responsibility to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and to this country to keep all students safe on campus. And for some universities, I think they were willing to forgo that responsibility, or it got a little bit out of balance. Some universities were willing to accept a little bit of hate over here, but no hate over here, and that's not okay. Hate and bigotry in all forms, needs to be condemned. All students need to be safe on campus, and yes, there should be places where students can express themselves and have their views heard. So while I realize there's a lot of gray area when it comes to figuring out exactly where that line is, I do think it's important everybody adhere to those basic principles.  And there are many colleges and universities here in Pennsylvania that are. I think, candidly, Penn lost its way. They are working to get back. I think Susanna Lachs-Adler and others. Susanna has done really wonderful work, and there's some important work there happening under their interim president. I think they are moving in the right direction there, and many other universities are as well.  And so I hope, to get to the heart of your question, 15 months later, we're in a position where students feel safe, to be able to both go to class and to be able to protest within the bounds of the rules on campus, and that we continue to be balanced in our approach there.  Ted Deutch:   When there is messaging sent, whether from faculty or from student groups or from other places on campus that say you are not welcome in this group, or, frankly, in this classroom, simply because you are a Zionist, simply because you believe in the modern state of Israel, that that also can't be acceptable because of what it says, the message that it sends to students, and how it puts people at risk. Josh Shapiro:   Without question. I mean, if you're a student on one of these campuses, you literally have a legal right to be safe in these communities and on these campuses. And university leaders have to remember that. I gotta tell you, these students, they're scared. You know, Hanukkah last year was sort of right around the time that these protests were really kicking up and students were incredibly scared. I heard from a number of students at Penn who reached out to me, reached out to my wife, and we decided to forgo lighting our hanukkiah for the first night at the governor's residence. Got in the trucks, drove to Penn, and we lit the hanukkiot at Penn's Hillel with those students. We wanted to make sure that they knew their governor, their first lady, had their backs, and that they were going to be safe on campus.  And that we were going to make sure that university leaders ensured their safety and their well being on campus. Again, I want to be really clear. Students have a right to protest. Their voices should be heard. I think students have helped usher in change in this country for generations. We want to hear their voices, but not at the expense of the safety and well being of any other student. That's where you got to draw a line. Ted Deutch:   You have, you've talked a lot about building a coalition to combat hatred, and you've invoked Rabbi Heschel, and you've invoked his work with Dr. King during the Civil Rights era. And it's, I think it's true for so many of us, that having invested so much time in those really important relationships, there was some disappointment with response after October 7, and yet, the only option, from our perspective, is to double down. One, because it's the right thing to do, and two, because the Jewish community represents .02% of the population in the world. We need allies. And this has been really central to AJC. And I know Stephanie Sun is here, co-chair of Papaja, and I think Anthony Rosado, co-chair of the Latino Jewish Coalition is here. And I appreciate their being here and their leadership. This is a really important way to continue to combat antisemitism and simultaneously to make sure that Zionists, the people who believe in Israel, aren't excluded.  Can you just talk about, I know this is important to you. Can you talk about how to build those kinds of coalitions that will help our community and and beyond? Josh Shapiro:   You have to build coalitions if you want to make any progress here in this Commonwealth and in the country. I'm actually the only governor in the entire country with a divided legislature, right? So I've got a State Senate led by Republicans, State House led by Democrats. I literally can't get a bill to my desk unless some number of Democrats and some number of Republicans support it.  And so you're forced to have dialogue. You're forced to come together. That's naturally who I am, trying to bring people together. But I want you to know it is. It is required here in Pennsylvania if we want to make progress. We made a hell of a lot of progress, fixing an unconstitutional education system, cutting taxes six times, hiring over 1000 new state troopers and police officers in Pennsylvania, and passing some of the most sweeping criminal justice reforms ever in the history of Pennsylvania. At the same time, we've been able to invest $3 billion in private capital investment to create over 130,000 new jobs. I've only been governor two years. We're getting a lot of stuff done.  I share this with you because we understand the critical importance of building coalitions. Now I'll tell you who else understood that, the person whose portrait hangs in my office right above my desk, William Penn. I share that with you because when William Penn helped build what is now the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, he built this as a place that would be warm and welcoming for all, where people of all different faiths would be forced together to actually work together to make progress in this commonwealth. That was his vision, and I view it as my responsibility, as someone who's been handed the baton from William Penn, and actually a whole lot of people in between, of course, to pick up on the work that was done before I got here and to continue it, in the spirit that that Penn started. A spirit where we want to make sure we respect people, no matter what they look like, where they come from, who they love, who they pray to, and that those folks are represented around the table.  And when they're around the table, and they feel like they have the freedom and the safety to be able to talk and to share their ideas and their views and their policies, that's what's going to allow us to build a coalition, to be able to get meaningful things done, to be able to make progress. You mentioned Heschel and King. I've had a lot of conversations about Heschel and King with Reverend Warnock, who I think is one of the great leaders in our country.  He gave me the privilege of being able to speak at the pulpit at Ebenezer Baptist Church where Dr. King was, of course, the prayer leader there. We spoke about Heschel and King from Ebenezer, the need to be able to bring the black community and the Jewish community closer together, to be able to do this important work. My friend David's here. He's done work with Operation Understanding and other organizations like that, that bring people from different walks of life together.  And if we can do that more, we can understand one another, we can reduce the amount of hate and bigotry in our community, and we can make progress in the spirit of William Penn, to fill in the work that Heschel and King started, and to be able to create a safer community for all of us. Ted Deutch:   I want to follow up on this note of bipartisanship. You talked about the division and the legislature in Harrisburg, and I want to just focus on Israel for a moment. We have, you have, sorry, it's been a long time since I lived in Pennsylvania. Josh Shapiro:   You're still one of us. You're a Birds fan.  Ted Deutch:  Thank you. Thank you very much.  Josh Shapiro:   And he went to Camp Ramah. This guy's got a whole pedigree. Ted Deutch:   Lehigh Valley, in my blood. Look, if you think about support for Israel in Pennsylvania, there were two pro Israel Democratic senators. There will now be a pro Israel Democratic senator in Senator Fetterman, whose support has been nothing short of spectacular. You have strong Republican support, including from my good friend, Congressman Fitzpatrick from the area as well. And in many ways, it's a good reminder of the importance of bipartisan support for Israel.  As we look into the future, given the challenges that Israel faces, is that Pennsylvania model of bipartisan support from both senators and bipartisan support from House members and a Democratic governor, is that the model that we should continue to expect to see around the country and will both parties continue to be as strongly pro Israel as they could be? Josh Shapiro:   Look, I'm a proud Democrat, and I want to make sure that the Democratic Party continues to stand with Israel, and I'm going to continue to do my part to raise my voice, to ensure that it does. I lament the fact that in recent years, the issue of Israel, so to speak, has become weaponized in our political system. I think Israel is far safer and far stronger when the relationship that elected officials in America have is on a really bipartisan or nonpartisan basis. And I think there have been some organizations, quite candidly, that have tried to throw a monkey wrench in that idea, and instead have injected too much partisanship into that relationship. In the long run that makes Israel less safe. Maybe in the short run, given the way the political dynamics are in the country today, it could work to Israel's advantage. But mark my words, in the long run, politicizing America's relationship with Israel is not in the best interest of Israel long term, from a safety and a security standpoint.  And so I believe the Pennsylvania model is the right way, where we've got Republicans and Democrats alike standing up and speaking out in support of Israel, and by the way, challenging Israel, where Israel needs to be challenged, and also making sure that we are speaking with a unified bipartisan voice against antisemitism, and where antisemitism rears its ugly head, no matter what political party or affiliation or left leaning or right leaning person said it, or group said it, that we join together in standing up and speaking out against it. I think there's something to our Pennsylvania model, and I'd like to see it more across the country.  Ted Deutch:   I want to thank you really so much for this conversation, and I want to give you a chance to end with this, for all of the challenges that we're facing, it's kind of a heavy conversation. What is it that you're most hopeful about at this moment, thinking about our community and the future and your life and your world? Josh Shapiro:   You know, I get asked a lot like, how do you stay so optimistic and so upbeat, given all the challenges there are out in the world, and there are so many challenges, there's challenges like what we're talking about here tonight with antisemitism. There's other challenges that the world is confronting, and probably in another 40 days or so, we're going to confront even more challenges in this country.  But what, what I think keeps me so up and so hopeful every day is the privilege I have to serve as your governor and travel around to different communities and different neighborhoods and just meet people who are doing remarkable things every day. It is a privilege I wish every Pennsylvanian had. To go and to see these nonprofits who are doing life saving and life changing work. To see the incredible work that's happening in some of our skyscrapers here in Philly and our farmlands out in rural communities across Pennsylvania. There are so many people who are literally changing the world, doing tikkun olam in their neighborhoods.  And you know what? They're not down by the news cycle that I know really can bum a lot of people out. These people give me hope, and these people fuel my energy every day to go out and do this work as governor, and they make me optimistic and hopeful. And so while I leave you with this, while I understand the critically important role AJC plays to continue to combat hatred and bigotry and antisemitism, and you do a great job doing that work, while we're focused on those negative things that we've got to combat, I hope you'll also take a moment to appreciate the positive in our communities and understand that there is so much good out there and so many people doing so much good. And that is what fuels me. That's what keeps me up and excited.  And that is what I think you know, really, in many ways, in the spirit of Penn, we get to see every day in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. So we need to continue to do this hard work that AJC calls us to do. But let's never lose sight of the positivity that's out there that fuels my optimism every day. Ted Deutch:   We're so grateful. Governor Shapiro, thank you very, very much.  Josh Shapiro:   Thank you. Thank you, Ted.   

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In a world where apologies are increasingly performed on public platforms like social media, how do we navigate the deeply personal and nuanced act of forgiveness? In this episode, we explore the controversy of seeking forgiveness online, the complexities of letting go of hurt, and how to discern when it's time to repair or release a relationship. Join us as we delve into: The rise of social media apologies: Are they genuine or performative? How to process hurt and determine whether to offer forgiveness. When it's time to work on a relationship and when it's better to walk away. Reflection Questions: How do you feel about public apologies on social media? Do they seem authentic or hollow? Is there a hurt you're holding onto that you're ready to release? How do you decide whether to mend or end a challenging relationship? Connect With Us: Follow us on @itsgilaross on Instagram or Facebook for episode updates and deeper discussions. Share your thoughts or forgiveness journey with us at gilaross@gmail.com Forgiveness, whether personal or public, is a complex and deeply human process. Tune in for insights and tools to help you navigate this journey with clarity and compassion.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq Friendships are one of the most rewarding yet complex aspects of life. In this episode, we dive into the art of navigating friendships, from how we treat others to mending and balancing relationships, and even letting go when necessary. Whether you're looking to strengthen connections or move forward with grace, this episode is packed with insights to guide your journey. 1. How We Should Treat Others. 2. How We Can Change the Relationship 3. How to Bring Back Balance into a Relationship: 4. How to Let Go of Grudges: Friendships are dynamic, and nurturing them takes time and care. Whether you're strengthening a bond, finding balance, or learning to let go, every step brings you closer to healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Don't forget to share this episode with a friend—it might just spark an incredible conversation! Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram: ⁠@itsgilaross⁠ Email us your friendship stories or questions: ⁠gilaross@gmail.com⁠ Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and spread the art of friendship far and wide!

The wisdom from 2,000 years ago teach us how to judge others. And the guidance is surprising and welcoming.

There is a teaching in Pirkei Avot that says that the mouth of the well was made during the first Shabbat of creation. We have long accepted it to be Miriam's well, but what if it's the well from this week's parsha - the one Jacob encounters after his dream, and where he meets Rachel for the first time? If it's that well, then maybe we, like Jacob, have to find the well, roll off the stone, and discover what exists underneath. 

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this heartwarming and insightful episode, we dive into the art of building meaningful friendships. Why are friendships so vital to our well-being? How can we deepen our connections with others, and what does it take to maintain these bonds over time? Whether you're looking to strengthen existing relationships or forge new ones, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice to help you navigate the world of friendship. Listener Challenge: This week, do one thing to invest in friendships! Connect with Us: Follow us on Instagram: @itsgilaross Email us your friendship stories or questions: gilaross@gmail.com Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and spread the art of friendship far and wide!

Ruchi Koval is a parenting coach and motivational speaker who has inspired personal transformation in thousands of people. She is the co-founder and Associate Director of JFX (Jewish Family Experience), an innovative community in Cleveland, Ohio. She has been a Jewish educator for two decades, leading self-development groups for adults and teens, and mentoring educators around the world. Ruchi is also a musician, author, mother of 7, and grandmother. She is a Momentum Educator, inspiring thousands of women on their journeys in Israel. She is also the author of three books: "Conversations with God," “Soul Construction,” and her newest book, “Soul Purpose: Your Daily Dose of Wisdom from Pirkei Avot.”    Find Ruchi on Facebook and Instagram; on her blog at outoftheorthobox.com; and her two podcasts. Download her “Ruchi Koval” app to listen to many of her lectures online.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq What does it mean to live a good life? In this episode, we explore the inspiring story of Sarah, one of the most influential figures in Jewish history, to uncover timeless lessons about defining and achieving a life of meaning, fulfillment, and purpose. Sarah's life was far from simple—marked by challenges, resilience, and unwavering faith. We'll delve into what we can learn from Sarah about cultivating joy, gratitude, and connection even in difficult times. **Subscribe and Share**: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

Can hanging out with a bad person cause "bad vibes" in the air?

"Appoint a rabbi (teacher) and acquire a friend." What does this 2,000 year old riddle actually mean?

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq What differentiates the patriarchs and matriarchs from other Biblical personalities? We delve into some of their personalities and the challenges they had throughout their lives and we see something profound that can teach us what to expect in our lives and how we can achieve balance. **Subscribe and Share**: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, we explore the complex and often hidden roots of self-sabotage. Why do we sometimes act in ways that go against our own best interests? Through insights from Torah, we unpack the underlying fears and limiting beliefs that contribute to self-sabotaging patterns. From procrastination to negative self-talk, self-sabotage can appear in many forms, subtly hindering our progress in both personal and professional realms. Self-sabotage can ultimately hold us back from our true potential. By identifying its roots, we can begin the journey toward self-acceptance, resilience, and freedom from these limiting patterns. **Subscribe and Share**: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

As Americans race to the polls to make their voices heard in the impending election, uncertainty about the future permeates the air. On this episode of TEXTing, Elana Stein Hain and Leora Batnitzky examine three musings from Pirkei Avot on the function of government; They discuss election anxieties, the purpose of governing bodies, and the importance of voting in this crucial election.   Episode Source Sheet   You can now sponsor an episode of TEXTing. Click HERE to learn more.    JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST FOR MORE HARTMAN IDEAS

Get one of the last few copies!! For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, we dive into the core elements that shape the Jewish spiritual experience. We explore the "DNA of Judaism" through three foundational concepts: the fear of God, the pursuit of self-mastery, and the Jewish perspective on our relationship with God. These principles not only frame Jewish spirituality but also serve as a guide for leading a meaningful and purpose-driven life. By unpacking each of these elements, we uncover how they connect deeply to our daily lives and to the greater purpose of Jewish faith. Key Themes and Takeaways: 1. Fear of God: Reverence and Awe - What It Means: Fear of God is often misunderstood as fear of punishment, but in Judaism, it's about cultivating awe and respect for the Divine. This reverence shapes how we conduct ourselves, make decisions, and approach the ethical dimensions of life. 2. Self-Mastery: - What It Means: In Jewish thought, self-mastery isn't about suppressing our desires but rather elevating them to serve a greater good. It's about self-discipline, resilience, and aligning our behavior with our values. 3. Our Relationship with God: Connection and Partnership - What It Means: The Jewish relationship with God is built on a foundation of connection and partnership. Rather than seeing God as distant, we view the Divine as an active presence in our lives, guiding, supporting, and challenging us. --- Closing Thoughts: Together, the fear of God, self-mastery, and our relationship with the Divine form the "DNA of Judaism." These elements remind us that our lives are not random but meaningful, with opportunities for growth, connection, and service. By integrating these principles into our lives, we carry the torch of Jewish wisdom and share its light with the world. Subscribe and Share: If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to our podcast to continue exploring the deeper layers of Jewish life. Please share with others who may be seeking inspiration, as we continue to bring timeless teachings into everyday conversation.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq We have a mitzvah to be happy on sukkot 1. How can we be told to be happy?? 2. Wouldn't having to sit in an uncomfortable sukkah detract from our happiness? Let's discover what happiness is and how to achieve it Subscribe and Share: If this episode inspired you to keep going, please subscribe and share it with others who may need help in their own journey of making change stick. Let's continue to learn and grow together!

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq In this episode, ahead of Yom Kippur we take a deep dive into what it really takes to make meaningful, lasting changes in our lives. We'll explore how we deal with failure, the role of effort and resilience in creating change, and the problems with procrastination. More importantly, we'll share strategies to help you push through setbacks and make your efforts stick for the long term. Some themes: - Understanding failure as an inevitable part of any change journey. - How to reframe failure not as a dead end, but as a learning experience that helps refine your approach. - The importance of a growth mindset: viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth rather than reasons to quit. - Why procrastination is often a barrier to change, leading to delay and avoidance. - Recognizing the small wins along the way and celebrating progress, even if it's not perfect. - How to foster self-compassion throughout the process and give yourself grace while striving for progress. -- Change is hard, but it's also possible with the right mindset, effort, and tools. This episode is a reminder that failure doesn't mean you've reached the end of the road—it's just a bump along the way. By pushing through procrastination, building resilience, and focusing on consistent effort, you can turn your goals into reality and make lasting change stick. Subscribe and Share: If this episode inspired you to keep going, please subscribe and share it with others who may need help in their own journey of making change stick. Let's continue to learn and grow together!

The astonishing answer to why knowledge of what we should and shouldn't do is not enough to help us change. And what we need instead. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my almost sold out book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq -- Any questions or feedback, get in touch gilaross@gmail.com

In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful stories of personal transformation in the Bible: the journey of Rachav (Rahab). Once known as a harlot in the city of Jericho, Rachav made a bold decision that changed her life forever. Her story challenges us to think about the capacity for change, redemption, and how people can rise above their past to embrace a new identity and purpose. Lessons for Today - What we can learn from Rachav's story about personal change and transformation in our own lives. - How to apply Rachav's journey to our own lives, whether it's through forgiveness, starting fresh, or encouraging others on their path to change. Subscribe and Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and share it with others who may find inspiration in Rachav's incredible story of transformation! Let's keep exploring how ancient wisdom can illuminate our paths today. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my new book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

Pirkei Avot 1:15 "Hillel & Shamai" by Rabbi Avi Harari

Pirkei Avot 1:14 - Caring For Yourself & Others by Rabbi Avi Harari