Podcasts about Rebbe

The Rebbe giving his Brocho after Mincha on Erev Yom Kippur

Tes Tishrei - Erev Yom Kippur (17:18)

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The Yom Kippur Perspective: Unbound, Forgiven, Free Yom Kippur is the holiest day of the year, a time when we abstain from physical pleasures and rise to angel-like clarity. From Kol Nidrei's haunting melody to Neilah's closing cry of Shema, the day carries us from release to renewal. The Rebbe explains that Kol Nidrei is not about G-d's forgiveness, that comes with the day itself, it is about freeing ourselves from the vows, guilt, and limits that keep us bound. Only then can our truest self emerge, ready to be sealed in the Book of Life. In honor of Eretz Yisroel, May G-d protect our brave soldiers and return all the hostages in Gaza immediately. Dedicated in loving memory of Edward Ben Efraim, Shlomo Ben Edward, and Yirachmiel Daniel Ben Gedalia.

Rosh Hashana and Tashlich

In honor of Vov Tishrei, the yahrzeit of the Rebbe's mother, Rebbetzin Chana, this class delves into a profound teaching from Likkutei Sichos (Vol. 19, pp. 291-297). The Rebbe revolutionizes our understanding of prayer, drawing lessons from the prophetess Chana's example to reveal how asking for our needs can be the ultimate expression of our connection to the divine. Discover how this perspective deepens our approach to prayer and strengthens our bond with Hashem.

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Vav Tishrei Any recollections of Vav Tishrei 5725? Why did the Rebbe honor his mother by explaining Rashi's commentary on the parsha? Can you tell a story about the Rebbe's mother to inspire us as we head into Yom Kippur? Why is this the holiest day of the year? What is the personal significance of this day? Does G-d need to “atone” for suffering He has caused us? Why lekach? Is Yom Kippur a joyous day? Why do we fast? Why is Yom Haki-purim compared to Purim? What is the connection to a lottery? Why two goats? Should we fight our enemies or transform them? What are some suggestions the Rebbe made to help win the Yom Kippur war? Can we do some of those things this Yom Kippur to win today's war? Kaporos Kol Nidrei Ki Hinei KaChomer Why do we say in Avinu Malkeinu that “we have no accomplishments”? Why were the ten martyrs killed? V'tiher Rabbi Yishmael How should we react to the embarrassing conflicts in our own shul? Chassidus Applied to Yom Kippur  Yom Kippur Prayers How should we react to countries like England, France and Canada declaring a Palestinian state? Can we expect peace in Israel if we have no peace in our communities? 

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Why does Rosh Hashana offer us new opportunities and possibilities? Erev Rosh Hashana • Why is it customary to visit the gravesite of the righteous before Rosh Hashana? • Please describe how to write a letter to the Rebbe at the Ohel. Or do you write to G-d in merit of the Rebbe? • What is the connection to the Tzemach Tzedek's birthday on Erev Rosh Hashana? Chassidus Applied to Rosh Hashana • What is the personal significance of this day? • What is the connection between Rosh Hashana being the birthday of the human race and it being the Day of Judgment? • What does Judgment mean? • What does it mean to be written in the Book of Life? • Why don't we always see the fulfillment of our prayers? • How can we create the proper containers for G-d's blessings? • Are we allowed to ask for physical success and wealth? • Is there one prayer to focus on? • Why do we read on Rosh Hashana the story of Chana praying for a child? • What do we learn from Chana about how to pray? • Why is praying for our needs not a lack of faith in G-d's plans for us? • How do we balance both extremes of focusing on coronating G-d as King and our own needs? • How can we mere mortals crown G-d as our King when G-d is completely beyond us and our comprehension? • Is there truth to the story with the Rebbetzin asking that blessings for the new year should be directed to Klal Yisroel instead of to her personally? • What is the meaning of the Alter Rebbe saying that he davened on Rosh Hashana with his “shtender”? • Why is parnasa for the year determined during the reading of the "Mizmor L'David" recited on Rosh Hashana evening? • Can I dip my apple in sugar? Rosh Hashana 5786 • What is the significance of Rosh Hashana falling on Tuesday? • What acronym can be suggested for the year Tov Shin Peh Vav? Shofar • Is there a connection between the commandment to make and sound trumpets to the shofar that we blow today on Rosh Hashana? • What is the difference between a regular shofar and "the great shofar"? • Why does the sounder of the shofar look at the community after blowing the shofar? • Was it important to look at the Rebbe when he sounded the shofar? • What is the connection of Rosh Hashana with the Baal Shem Tov hearing that Moshiach will come when his wellsprings are spread outward?What can we do to ensure that Hashem will have mercy on the remaining hostages and have them all safely freed?What is the connection of Rosh Hashana with the Baal Shem Tov hearing that Moshiach will come when his wellsprings are spread outward?

Haazinu

Erev Rosh Hashana & Rosh Hashana

The Rebbe discusses a new possibility to resolve Kfar Chabad's housing issue through foreign-currency loans with government guarantees and mortgages to secure investments. If viable, suitable lenders may be found. The Rebbe seeks an opinion and adds words of encouragement on Divine Providence before the new year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/013/5767

Zevachim 12 – Friday – 4 TishreiBy Rabbi Moshe Benovitz, Managing Director of NCSY, Rebbe at Reishitזבחים דף יב, דף יומי

vayelech

התוכן [מסרו לכ"ק אד"ש שטענדער מ"בית ספר למלאכה – כפר חב"ד"] פעם שאל אדה"ז את בנו אדה"א "במה התפללת בר"ה העבר", וענה ש"התבונן במאמר וכל קומה לפניך תשתחוה, בהביטול של הקומה דא"ק". והביאור: "א"ק" הוא ר"ת "אדם קדמון" שקאי על כל סדר השתלשלות, ומכיון שבר"ה מתחדשת הבריאה דכל סדהשת"ל, ולכן התבונן איך שכל סדהשת"ל מתבטלת בתכלית – "לך תשתחוה". וזה פועל שה' מקבל את בקשת בנ"י בר"ה "מלוך על העולם כולו". אח"כ שאל אדה"א את אדה"ז "במה התפללת", וענה "מיט דעם שטענדער". והביאור: למרות שה"שטענדער" אינו אלא "דומם", ה"ה מסייע לאדם בעבודת התפילה (וכד'), ההתחברות של המתפלל עם ה', ע"י שמניח עליו את הסידור וכד', וכן ברוחניות – הביטול שע"י ההתבוננות בזה ש"אין עוד מלבדו" גם ב"שטענדער" הוא יותר מע"י ההתבוננות של "בעל ציור" בהשכל ש"וכל קומה לפניך תשתחוה"! ההוראה: גם לאחרי העבודה של חודש אלול, אי"ז מגיע לנקודה העיקרית – הקב"ע של ר"ה שהיא ביטול והנחת עצמותו לגמרי שלא לפ"ע השכל ומדות, אלא ע"ד ה"שטענדער"!ג' חלקים משיחת אור לכ"ט אלול ה'תשכ"ב, ער"ה ה'תשכ"ג ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=21-09-2025 Synopsis [At the farbrengen, the Rebbe was presented with a shtender produced at the vocational school in Kfar Chabad.] The Alter Rebbe once asked his son, the Mitteler Rebbe, “With what did you daven last Rosh Hashanah?” The Mitteler Rebbe replied that he had meditated on the words, “And every being of stature shall prostrate itself before You” – the bitul of the komah of Adam Kadmon, which refers to the entire Seder Hishtalshelus; since on Rosh Hashanah the creation of the entire Seder Hishtalshelus is renewed, he meditated on how the entire Seder Hishtalshelus is completely nullified, it “shall prostrate itself before You,” which causes Hashem to accept the request of the Jewish people on Rosh Hashanah to “Reign over the entire world.” The Mitteler Rebbe then asked the Alter Rebbe, “With what did you daven?” and he replied, “With the shtender (lectern).” The explanation is as follows: Although the shtender is only an inanimate object, it assists a person in his service of tefillah, connecting the person to Hashem by holding the siddur etc. Similarly, in the spiritual sense, the bitul attained by meditating on the idea that “There is nothing besides Him” even in a shtender is greater than the bitul attained by a person's intellectual meditation on the idea that “every being of stature shall prostrate itself before You.” The lesson is that even after the service of the month of Elul, one has not yet reached the essential point – the kabbolas ol of Rosh Hashanah, which is absolute bitul and setting oneself aside, not in accordance with the intellect and emotions, but like the shtender.3 excerpts from sichah of Thursday night, 29 Elul 5722, Erev Rosh Hashanah 5723 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=21-09-2025 לזכות דבורה לאה בת מושקא שתחי' ליום ההולדת שלה כ"ח אלול - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות*לע"נ הרב משה יצחק בן הרב לוי ע"ה פארסט – שלוחו של הרבי למדינת הולנד – ליום היארצייט שלו כ"ח אלול. תנצב"ה.

Rosh Hashanah & Parshas Nitzavim: Crowned With Life As we stand before Rosh Hashanah, Moshe's words in Parshas Nitzavim ring out: “You are all standing today before Hashem.” Every Jew together, bound in unity, choosing life with purpose and with G-d. The Ramban and the Rebbe remind us that this covenant is not history—it is alive, renewed each year through our choices. To crown G-d as King is to embrace meaning, faith, and resilience, even in times of pain. In honor of Eretz Yisroel – May G-d protect our brave soldiers and return all the hostages in Gaza immediately. Dedicated in loving memory of Edward Ben Efraim, Shlomo Ben Edward, and Yirachmiel Daniel Ben Gedalia. Listen now at ParshaPerspective.com

Elaborating on the days, which lead up to Rosh Hashana 5716

Some words of encouragement as we enter into Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur 

The Rebbe blesses him for the new year with ksiva v'chasima tova for a good and sweet year in gashmiyus and ruchniyus, great success with his students in spreading Torah with yiras Shamayim, and abundant Chassidishe nachas from all his children, in peace of body and soul. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1222

The Rebbe, though satisfied in part, reminds that “good is good, but better is expected.” Temimim must be true “lamps to illuminate,” serving as role models in Chassidus, prayer, nigleh, and derech eretz, influencing their peers. He awaits good news and blesses them with success in Torah and yiras Shamayim. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/005_igros_kodesh/001_tishrei/1224

The Rebbe blesses him for a good, sweet year with success in studies and yiras Shamayim. Regarding travel, since Divine Providence placed him in Australia to spread Chassidus, he should continue this work, at least in part, and later seek other roles. Even imperfect intent still brings true benefit. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1223

The Rebbe will read his pan at the Ohel before Rosh Hashanah. Regarding visiting Eretz Yisrael after Sukkos, he questions the appropriateness in a Shemitah year. He also inquires about his son, following earlier discussions, and concludes with blessings for a good and sweet year in gashmiyus and ruchniyus. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1221

As we prepare for 5712, the Shemitah year, the Rebbe teaches its message: to pause from materialism, live wholly “Shabbat LaHashem,” and unify all of life—Torah, work, and daily needs—in service of Hashem. With such resolve for the new year, we merit a good and sweet year in revealed goodness. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1215

The Rebbe relates that naming a child is the parents' decision, as stated by the Frierdiker Rebbe. He advises saying Psalm 20 (“Lamenatzeach”) before sleep, repeating the verse “Ya'ancha” with intent. He will read the pan at the Ohel and blesses the family with a good and sweet new year materially and spiritually. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1208

The Rebbe thanks for the update on the Shepparton yeshiva and advises not to move to Melbourne until student numbers suffice, as one doesn't leave a beis midrash before a new one is ready. A teacher's talents should remain for the yeshiva unless no conflict arises. He blesses them with a good, sweet year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1209

The Rebbe notes that Chai Elul, birthdays of the Baal Shem Tov and Alter Rebbe, brings vitality into all aspects of Elul—teshuvah, Torah, tefillah, and gemilus chasadim, as reflected in its acronyms. He extends heartfelt blessings to him and his family for a good and sweet year in both gashmiyus and ruchniyus. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1210

The Rebbe is pleased to hear of the Chai Elul farbrengen with study of the Frierdiker Rebbe's talks, surely awakening love of fellow Jew, Torah, and Hashem—unified as taught by the Baal Shem Tov and Alter Rebbe. He blesses that resolutions be fulfilled and wishes a good, sweet year in gashmiyus and ruchniyus. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1211

The Rebbe comforts him not to worry about health, as Hashem guides the birurim toward revealed good. He is pleased with his efforts to strengthen Yiddishkeit for others, which brings light and blessing also to him, aiding success in Torah, Chassidus, and all matters. Concludes with blessings for a good, sweet year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1220

The Rebbe urges learning maamarim together before and during the Yamim Noraim, when all souls stand united before Hashem. He recounts the Baal Shem Tov, Maggid, and Alter Rebbe's teachings on uniting love of Hashem, Torah, and Israel—especially loving every Jew simply as a Jew—opening the “Upper Gate” and hastening the true Geulah. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1213

The Rebbe sends the Rosh Hashanah kuntres, urging it be studied in groups, as Torah is acquired through humility and connection with others. He recalls the Frierdiker Rebbe's story of extending Rosh Hashanah's light through chassidus study, and encourages all to do likewise, drawing its radiance into every aspect of life. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1214

The Rebbe is pleased by the Chai Elul farbrengen, noting success comes once work is begun, even if attendance is small at first. Regarding his position as shochet, he should currently focus on poultry until the issues with large-animal shechita are resolved. He will mention all named at the Ohel and blesses for a good, sweet year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1212

On the threshold of 5712, a Shemitah year, the Rebbe urges Jews everywhere to rise above “earthliness,” reject false ideals, and infuse all of life—even material pursuits—with holiness through Torah and mitzvos. With such resolve, we will merit a good and sweet year filled with revealed blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1216

The Rebbe blesses the members of “Nusach Ari,” “Tzemach Tzedek,” and “Lubavitch” shuls for a good, sweet year. He stresses the weight of these sacred names and the duty to uphold them—growing membership, especially youth, adding Torah and Chassidus study with farbrengens, making each shul vibrant and full of light. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1217

The Rebbe affirms his public efforts will only expand channels of livelihood and bring true Yiddishe nachas from his daughter. He mentioned the family at the Ohel on Chai Elul for blessing and success, and advises correcting any harm to Jews in business. He ends with wishes for a good, sweet year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1218

The Rebbe is glad her husband feels better and her son helped in business, hoping for continued good news. He praises her organizing a women's Chevra Kadisha, a great merit of true kindness, and prays we soon merit techiyas hameisim. He blesses her and her family with a good, sweet year. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/004_igros_kodesh/elul/1219

Send us a textThe Power and Process of Forgiveness: In this episode of From The Inside Out Podcast with Rivkah & Eda, we explore forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of letting go of past resentments to lead a fulfilling life. The discussion covers various methods of achieving forgiveness, including writing unsent letters and understanding that forgiveness is a deeply personal process not necessarily linked to others' actions. The episode touches on poignant topics like self-forgiveness, collective trauma, and the transformative effect of forgiveness, offering listeners insightful perspectives as we approach the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah.EPISODE SPONSORSKEREN HASHANAEven if we resolve to give charity every day, it's easy to miss a day, to forget, or to get distracted.Imagine the opportunity to partner daily with the Lubavitcher Rebbe in giving charity. 72 years ago, the Rebbe, launched an initiative to ensure that every person has the merit of daily tzedaka-giving. The Rebbe established a special fund that would guarantee not a day goes by without contributing to charity, it is called Keren Hashana.There are many great organizations to give charity to daily…the Rebbe stated that those who wish to rely on him for their daily giving can donate to this fund. The first daily giving fund. The Idea: You donate in amounts which reflect the number of days in the coming year–this year 354–and Keren Hashana disburses the charity on your behalf -- twice every day! Once before Shachris and once before Mincha. This guarantees that you will give Tzedaka every day of the Year. It's not important how much you give, the idea is to give Tzedaka every day.In the past year alone, millions of dollars were distributed towards these social services. How is the money distributed? Where does the money go? The funds are donated through Machne Israel Chabad HQ in support of those less fortunate, single-parent households, educational subsidies for Torah education, emergency assistance, Hachnosas Kallah to holiday grants, and a host of other initiatives made possible through Chabad's global network. This past year, a significant amount of money was directed in support of our brothers and sisters in the holy land of Israel.Join with thousands from around the world and become a Keren Hashana partner. Be a giver every day and donate online at: MyKerenHashana.orgGUEST BIORabbi Yisroel Bernath, is a Chabad rabbi, relationship coach, matchmaker, and storyteller whose work sits at the intersection of soul, psychology, and Jewish wisdom. Known affectionately as “The Love Rabbi,” for over two decades he has helped hundreds of individuals and couples navigate the complexities of the human heart, from heartbreak to healing, from resentment to forgiveness.Rabbi Bernath lives in Montreal with his wife Sara and their six children.Find out more about Rabbi Bernath at TheLoveRabbi.com or on Instagram at @montrealrabbi CHAPTERS00:00 Opening and Sponsors06:12 Understanding COMMUNITYJoin the Community! Connect with us on socials to discuss Episode 101, share insights, and continue the conversations you want to have:

Many people have the custom each morning to read "Hok Le'Yisrael" – a collection of texts that includes passages from the Tanach, Mishna, Halachic works, Zohar, and other sources. "Hok Le'Yisrael" follows a regimented schedule, with different pieces of texts being recited each day. Often, the people who read "Hok Le'Yisrael" do not understand the material they read. The question arises whether a person may read "Hok Le'Yisrael" in the morning before reciting Birkot Ha'Torah. Halacha requires reciting Birkot Ha'Torah before learning Torah for the first time in the morning, but does this apply even if one reads Torah literature without understanding the text? Does this qualify as "learning" with respect to the obligation of Birkot Ha'Torah? Rav Schneur Zalman of Liadi (first Rebbe of Lubavitch, 1745-1812), in his Shulhan Aruch Ha'Rav, distinguishes in this regard between the Tanach and other texts. When one reads verses from the Torah, Nebi'im or Ketubim, this constitutes Torah learning regardless of whether or not he understands what he reads. When it comes to all other texts, however, reading them qualifies as Torah study only if one understands the material he reads. Similarly, the Mishna Berura cites the Magen Abraham (Rav Abraham Gombiner, Poland, 1635-1683) as stating that if one reads "Ezehu Mekoman" – the chapter of Mishna which is customarily read during the "Korbanot" section each morning – without understanding the text, this is not considered Torah study. This is true also of "Rabbi Yishmael Omer," the paragraph which is customarily read in the morning, listing the thirteen methods by which the Sages extracted Halachot from the Biblical text. If a person does not understand this passage, reading it does not qualify as Torah learning. This rule has ramifications with regard to Ereb Pesach, when it is customary for firstborns to participate in a Siyum celebration in order to be absolved from the "fast of the firstborn" (Ta'anit Bechorot) on this day. Hacham Ovadia Yosef writes that a Siyum is effective in absolving the firstborns of their obligation only if the person making the Siyum truly understood all the material in the Masechet (tractate of Talmud) which he completes. Simply reading the words does not suffice. The exception to this rule is the Zohar, the reading of which qualifies as Torah learning even if one does not understand what he reads – and even if he does not read the words correctly. This is the ruling of the Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) and of Rav Haim Palachi (Turkey, 1788-1868). The words of the Zohar have such power and potency that reading them has the effect of absorbing the content into one's being even if he does not understand what he reads. It is told that the Arizal (Rav Yishak Luria, 1534-1572) once advised somebody to read five pages of Zohar each day as a Tikkun (rectification) for his soul. And many have the custom to read from the Zohar Hadash each day during the month of Elul, until Yom Kippur, because the reading itself brings great spiritual benefits, even if one does not understand the text. Therefore, one who reads Zohar in the morning must first recite Birkot Ha'Torah. This exception is unique to the Zohar. Other Kabbalistic works – such as Sha'ar Ha'kavanot and the teachings of the Rashash (Rav Shalom Sharabi, 1720-1777) – elucidate and expound upon the teachings of the Zohar, and thus simply reading them without understanding what they say does not qualify as Torah learning. Returning the case of those who read "Hok Le'Yisrael," since this reading includes passages from the Tanach, one must recite Birkot Ha'Torah before reading this text in the morning, even if he does not understand anything he reads. This applies also to somebody who wishes to read Tehillim in the morning – he must first recite Birkot Ha'Torah, even though he does not understand the verses he recites, because Tehillim is part of the Tanach. In conclusion, it should be emphasized that although reading Tanach and Zohar without understanding the text qualifies as Torah study, we should always aspire to understand to the best of our ability. The sin of "Bittul Torah" (neglecting Torah) is normally defined as wasting time which could have been used for Torah, but it includes also wasting one's capabilities which could have been used to understand Torah. G-d gave us intellectual skills, the ability to comprehend, and we must utilize these powers to understand as much Torah as we can to the greatest extent possible. Today, when virtually every Torah text is available with translations and commentaries, there is really no excuse for reading any part of Torah literature without understanding the material. Summary: If one wishes to read verses from the Torah – such as Tehillim – in the morning, he must first recite Birkot Ha'Torah, even if he will not understand the text he will be reciting. This applies also to someone who wishes to read passages from the Zohar which he does not understand. Reading any other Torah text, however, does not qualify as Torah study unless one understands what he reads, and thus one who reads in the morning other Torah texts without understanding does not need to first recite Birkot Ha'Torah.

This is Part 2 of “613 Books” podcast, producer Heather Dean's interview with Chasidic scholar and educator, Rabbi Levi Shmotkin, author of “Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe.” In the universal quest for coping with the inevitable challenges that threaten our peace of mind, and after years of studying the Rebbe's vast correspondence, conducting interviews, and sifting through the archives, Rabbi Shmotkin writes about twelve themes on emotional wellness from the Rebbe's counsel. They are clear, sensible, and sometimes surprising tools for building a strong and resilient self despite life's setbacks. Drawing from 3,000 years of Jewish wisdom, the Lubavitcher Rebbe zt”l would firmly and lovingly advise each of them how to attain inner health, harmony, and wholeness. Through poignant excerpts from letters, compelling stories, and practical takeaways, Letters for Life makes the Rebbe's wisdom accessible to all. It is an enlightening and enthralling read for any person seeking emotional equilibrium in an off-balanced world. SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week! = = = Show Notes: Featured Guest: Rabbi Levi Y. Shmotkin Featured Book: Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe Purchase Link: Chabad.org/lettersforlife To Purchase in Israel: https://www.sifreiorhachaim.co.il/product/letters-for-life/ To Purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Life-Guidance-Emotional-Lubavitcher/dp/0826690149 Email Rabbi Shmotkin: lettersforlife@chabad.org Visit the website: https://Lettersforlife.info = = = = = = = Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger Michael's contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.net/en/home/ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week! = = = = = = = About the Lubavitcher Rebbe: The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, is widely considered the most influential rabbi in modern history. His influence transcended sectarian and geographic borders, with people from all walks of life seeking his wisdom, comfort, and counsel. As the seventh leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, he personally mentored hundreds of thousands through meetings and correspondence. The Rebbe advised world leaders and influential figures including Robert F. Kennedy, Yitzchak Rabin, Menachem Begin, and Benjamin Netanyahu. For more information, visit: https://TheRebbe.org

Mrs. Swerdlov shared her stories and memories from spending Tishrei with the Rebbe and her connection with Rebbetzin Chana.Help make Farbrengens like this happen!https://cash.app/$livingchassidushttp://Paypal.me/livingchassidushttps://livingchassidus.org/donate/Zelle: 205-937-9914https://www.venmo.com/u/LivingChassidus

Nitzovim

In the second of the three Berachot that comprise Birkot Ha'Torah – the series of blessings we recite each morning over Torah learning – we include a prayer that we and all our descendants should be devoted students of Torah. Some Rabbis teach that one should have special intention when reciting this prayer that his children and all his offspring should grow into Torah-committed adults. This second Beracha concludes, "Baruch Ata Hashem Ha'melamed Torah Le'amo Yisrael" – "Blessed are You, O G-d, who teaches Torah to His nation, Israel." This formulation reminds us that Hashem Himself teaches us Torah. Although we are, of course, required to invest maximum effort and exertion in the pursuit of Torah knowledge and understanding, we cannot attain any knowledge or comprehension without Hashem's assistance. Whenever we attend a class, or open a book to learn, Hashem is there with us teaching us the material, and it is only because of Him that we know all that we know and understand all that we understand. I was privileged to learn with several great Rabbis who, when they encountered a difficult passage or a difficult concept, and were struggling to understand the material, they turned to Hashem and prayed for His help. They truly understood that G-d is "Ha'melamed Torah Le'amo Yisrael," that He is the one teaching us whenever we learn. This text of the Beracha should also remind us of the great stature of Torah educators. I once visited the Skverer Rebbe together with a prestigious educator in our community, and the Rebbe turned to him and asked what he did. He replied that he teaches Torah. "You are emulating your Creator," the Rebbe said. "He is a teacher – and you're following in His ways." Teaching Torah is a special privilege, and a job which should elicit our respect and esteem – if for no other reason that a Torah educator is doing precisely what Hashem does. The final blessing of Birkot Ha'Torah concludes, "Baruch Ata Hashem Noten Ha'Torah" – "Blessed are You, Hashem, who gives the Torah." Significantly, we speak of Hashem giving us the Torah in the present tense. He did not give our nation the Torah only once, at Mount Sinai. Every time we learn, He is giving it to us anew. Each and every day, and at every moment, we have the opportunity to renew our connection to Hashem by receiving the Torah from Him. We must cherish every such opportunity and seize every moment we can to strengthen our bond with our Creator by inviting Him to give us the Torah anew.

Every morning, we recite Birkot Ha'Torah – a series of blessings over Torah learning. This series consists of three different Berachot. The text of the first Beracha resembles that of other blessings recited over Misvot. We thank Hashem "Asher Kideshanu Be'misvotav Be'sivanu Al Dibre Torah" – who commanded us to study Torah. Just like we recite a Beracha over other Misvot – such as over the Misva of Sisit, the Misva of Tefillin, Netilat Yadayim, and many others – we likewise recite a Beracha over the Misva of Torah learning, which is the most important of all the Misvot that we perform. This first Beracha, then, is a standard Birkat Ha'misva – blessing recited over a Misva. In the second Beracha, we beseech Hashem to make the words of Torah "sweet" and enjoyable for us and for all Am Yisrael ("Ve'Ha'areb Na Hashem Elokenu Et Dibreh Toratecha Be'finu…"). We ask that the experience of Torah learning should be uplifting and exhilarating, and not a burdensome task that we do only because we are required to. The Rebbe of Sochatchov (Rav Avraham Borenstein, 1838-1910), in the introduction to his work Igleh Tal, laments the fact that many people mistakenly assume that enjoying Torah study undermines the sincerity of the Misva. They think if one receives enjoyment and satisfaction from the experience, then he loses the element of "Li'shmah" – learning Torah "for its sake," purely for the Misva. In their view, the highest level of Torah learning is studying without any enjoyment, without enthusiasm, learning the material solely for the sake of fulfilling the Misva. The Rebbe of Sochatchov writes that this is a grave mistake, as to the contrary, enjoyment is an integral component of the Misva of Torah learning. The Misva is not only to learn Torah – but to reach the point where learning Torah is thrilling, and a source of immense joy and satisfaction. The Rebbe of Sochatchov explains that when a person enjoys learning, then the material he learns is fully absorbed into his being, and transforms him. The Zohar teaches that when a person learns with joy and enthusiasm, this experience has the effect of empowering and emboldening his Yeser Tob (good inclination), so it can overcome his Yeser Ha'ra (evil inclination). Indeed, many stories are told of great Sages who exuded unbridled joy when learning Torah. When they arrived at a new understanding or new insight, they would erupt in song and dance to celebrate. Of course, we are required to learn even when it does not provide us with joy and satisfaction, but we must always strive to experience the joy and sweetness of Torah. Thus, in the second of the three Birkot Ha'Torah, we ask Hashem to make Torah learning enjoyable for us, so we can observe this precious Misva at the very highest level. In the third blessing of Birkot Ha'Torah, we express our gratitude to Hashem "who has chosen us from among all the nations, and has given us His Torah." Torah is the greatest of all gifts, enabling us to access the divine wisdom and connect to Hashem, and so we recite this Beracha to thank Hashem for this extraordinary gift, the privilege to study His Torah. A number of writers addressed the question of why we do not recite a Beracha after we learn Torah, just as we recite Birkat Ha'mazon or a Beracha Aharona after eating. If we recite a Beracha before we enjoy the delight of Torah learning – the way we recite a Beracha before enjoying food – then why do we not recite a Beracha afterward – the way we recite a Beracha after enjoying food? The Rashba (Rav Shlomo Ben Aderet of Barcelona, 1235-1310) answers, very simply, that the Sages did not institute the recitation of a Beracha after the performance of a Misva. They established Berachot to be recited before the observance of certain Misvot, but not afterward. There are several Misvot enacted by the Sages for which they instituted Berachot to be recited afterward – such as Megilla reading, which is followed by the Beracha of "Ha'rab Et Ribenu" – but we never find a Beracha recited after the fulfillment of a Biblical obligation. The Bet Yosef offers an additional answer, explaining that one never truly finishes learning Torah. Whenever we are not learning Torah, we are tending to our necessary affairs with the intention of returning to our Torah study as soon as possible. We don't finish learning – we only take temporary breaks and then resume our studies. Therefore, there cannot be a Beracha to be recited when one finishes learning.

*Chai Elul: Yom HaHoledes of The Baal Shem Tov and The Alter Rebbe.   This audio file includes facts and stories about Chai Elul. This file is comprised of 4 short voice files which were originally posted in our Zichronos of the Rebbe whatsapp Group. Listening time is about 26 min. Due to its length you may need to download it to a computer.  *Gut Yom Tov!* 

On this episode of “613 Books” podcast, producer Heather Dean interviews Chasidic scholar and educator, Rabbi Levi Shmotkin, author of “Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe.” In the universal quest for coping with the inevitable challenges that threaten our peace of mind, and after years of studying the Rebbe's vast correspondence, conducting interviews, and sifting through the archives, Rabbi Shmotkin writes about twelve themes on emotional wellness from the Rebbe's counsel. They are clear, sensible, and sometimes surprising tools for building a strong and resilient self despite life's setbacks. Drawing from 3,000 years of Jewish wisdom, the Lubavitcher Rebbe zt”l would firmly and lovingly advise each of them how to attain inner health, harmony, and wholeness. Through poignant excerpts from letters, compelling stories, and practical takeaways, Letters for Life makes the Rebbe's wisdom accessible to all. It is an enlightening and enthralling read for any person seeking emotional equilibrium in an off-balanced world. SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week! = = = Show notes: Featured Guest: Rabbi Levi Y. Shmotkin Featured Book: Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe Purchase Link: Chabad.org/lettersforlife To Purchase in Israel: https://www.sifreiorhachaim.co.il/product/letters-for-life/ To Purchase on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Life-Guidance-Emotional-Lubavitcher/dp/0826690149 Email Rabbi Shmotkin: lettersforlife@chabad.org Visit the website: Lettersforlife.info = = = = = = = Show Announcer for 613 Books Podcast: Michael Doniger Michael's contact info, voice-over samples, and demo: https://michaeldoniger.net/en/home/ SUBSCRIBE to “613 Books” Podcast and discover new books every week! = = = = = = = About the Lubavitcher Rebbe: The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, is widely considered the most influential rabbi in modern history. His influence transcended sectarian and geographic borders, with people from all walks of life seeking his wisdom, comfort, and counsel. As the seventh leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, he personally mentored hundreds of thousands through meetings and correspondence. The Rebbe advised world leaders and influential figures including Robert F. Kennedy, Yitzchak Rabin, Menachem Begin, and Benjamin Netanyahu. For more information, visit: https://TheRebbe.org

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: What should be our focus as we begin the third week of Elul?  What is unique about the month of Elul? Why is the entire month of Elul not a holiday due to the revelation of the Divine compassion during this month? Why does Elul include V'Dodi Li (from above), which seems to be primarily during the holidays in Tishrei? Why am I not seeing the blessings that I asked for from the “king in the field”? What else can I do to help reveal these blessings?Did the Rebbe say that the parable of the “king in the field” teaches us that influential people need to go into the fields to greet regular people and make sure they have everything they need physically and spiritually? Is there a correlation between the king leaving his palace and going into the field to the concept of dira b'tachtonim, the king leaving the higher worlds and dwelling in the lower worlds? If we are meeting the “king in the field” why do we wait an entire month to coronate Him? Is there a connection between Elul and education? How can an emotionally unhealthy person prepare for the New Year?What can be done about the dissonance between being extremely religious in certain areas and despicable in human relationships? What is the significance of this day? How did Chassidus come to address the abovementioned dissonance? How does Chai Elul infuse more life into Elul to help us get ready for the new year? Do we know of other “new” souls besides the Alter Rebbe? What lessons can we learn from this week's Parsha? Chai Elul Ki Tavo 

Rabbi Yosef Levin is a shliach in the Silicon Valley from before it was known as the Silicon Valley. Before that he grew up in Belfast and Sunderland and went to yeshiva in Brunoy, Kfar Chabad and Morristown. In this episode, Rabbi Levin shares his recollections of his years in Yeshiva, the hanholo in Brunoy who didn't believe there can be spoiled milk, the first hookups with the Rebbe's farbrengens, as well as his first and hardest years on shlichus in Northern California, the "valley of very dry bones."____Support this podcast at: ⁠https://www.hflpodcast.com/donate⁠___If you would like to sponsor an episode or advertise on the podcast please reach out to bentzi@yuvlamedia.com____This week's episode is brought to you by "This World Is A Garden," a new film and live concert production by Yuvla Media based on the Rebbe's first talk, Bosi Lgani.Combining beautiful cinematography with a live performance by a string quartet, this production is a meditation on hope and holding on to a vision even as time passes by.Now you can bring this groundbreaking experience of Bosi Lgani to your community.For more info please visit: ⁠https://www.yuvlamedia.com/thisworldi..⁠.____Homesick for Lubavitch is a project of Yuvla Media.Bentzi Avtzon is a filmmaker who specializes in telling the stories of thoughtful and heartfelt organizations. Business inquiries only: hello@yuvlamedia.comConnect with BentziWebsite | ⁠https://www.yuvlamedia.com⁠

Send us a textIn honor of Elul and Rosh Hashanah, we're re-releasing one of the most cherished conversations ever recorded on From the Inside Out Podcast, our 2019 interview with Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks זצ״ל. This was not only one of our very first episodes, it was also Rabbi Sacks' final recorded interview before his passing.[Watch the extended video podcast here: https://youtu.be/QO9LPKJvnYU] What began as a conversation about Jewish identity, morality, and mentorship, became a masterclass in faith, leadership, and the quiet power of humility. From the Rebbe's influence to his love story with Elaine, from confronting self-doubt to transforming the “I” generation into a “we” — this episode is packed with spiritual insight and deeply personal reflections.Whether you're hearing it for the first time or returning for another listen, may Rabbi Sacks' timeless wisdom inspire you in this season of renewal.Topics include:How the Rebbe changed Rabbi Sacks' lifeThe hidden strengths of self-doubtThe surprising power of WhatsApp over the pulpitElaine Sacks' role in shaping Rabbi Sacks' leadershipThe shift from an “I” to “we” societyWhy the question “Why do bad things happen to good people?” has no answerElul as a time of clearing space, not piling on resolutionsHow spiritual gifts increase when shared