Podcasts about shabbat shalom

Do you see the big picture? Can you trust G-d to provide for you? Join guest speaker Rabbi Dr. Bruce Tucker of Congregation Beth Judah in Ormond Beach, Florida, as he focuses on the struggle to release what we fear to lose to the L-rd, and how doing so can advance our purpose and relationship with G-d. In both times where you are strong and times where you are weak, choose to intentionally put your trust in the Messiah, Yeshua. Shabbat Shalom!Leviticus 25.1-11; Leviticus 25.20-23; Jeremiah 17.5-8; Jeremiah 32.6-7; Jeremiah 32.13-17; 2 Corinthians 4.5-7; 2 Corinthians 4.16-18; 2 Corinthians 5.1-8Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

In Parashat Behar, we are introduced to the mitzvah of Shemitah — the command for a landowner to let his land rest for an entire year. The Gemara in Sanhedrin teaches that one of the reasons behind this mitzvah is to remind the landowner that the land ultimately belongs to Hashem. It is Hashem who determines how much produce the land will yield and when it will be given. The farmer's efforts do not add to or subtract from that decision. This lesson applies to all forms of livelihood. The mitzvah of Shemitah teaches us that parnasah comes only from Hashem, and it is He who decides when and how much a person will receive. In the case of Shemitah, Hashem even provides extra produce before the seventh year begins — showing that He already knows who will follow the mitzvah and provides accordingly. More broadly, the Chovot HaLevavot gives guidance on how to approach our work with the proper mindset. In Sha'ar HaBitachon, perek dalet, he writes that Hashem does not instruct a person which job to take or what merchandise to sell. Therefore,it is only logical to conclude that a person's responsibility is to pray to Hashem for guidance and trust that He will guide him to the business that he wants him to be in. If the options in front of a person are equal in spiritual terms, he can be confident that whichever one he chooses is the one Hashem wants for him. Even if, in hindsight, another option appears to have been more successful or profitable, it does not mean the person made a mistake. Similarly, a person must know that he is never stuck — he can leave a job that no longer suits him — but he also must know that wherever he was until now was part of Hashem's plan. When it comes to Torah and mitzvot, however, Hashem has given us clear instructions. That is where our choices matter most. In the physical realm, though, where no clear command exists, Hashem takes responsibility to guide us where we need to be. For example, if a girl is offered a potential shidduch and chooses to date a certain boy who seems to be the best match, but ultimately it doesn't work out — and later she finds that another suggestion proves to be the right one — it does not mean she made the wrong choice. It also does not mean that had she chosen differently from the start, things would have been smoother. Hashem had reasons for wanting her to go through the earlier process. Every experience, even unsuccessful ones, shapes a person and contributes to his or her growth. The key is to avoid regret when it comes to decisions in the physical world. We must believe that Hashem is constantly guiding us. Even if new information comes to light that would have changed a decision, it still doesn't mean the decision was wrong. If Hashem had wanted us to act differently, He would have arranged for us to have that information sooner. Whenever we feel regret — thinking we would have been more successful or happier had we chosen differently — we must see that as an opportunity to strengthen our emunah. It is Hashem who decides our financial success, and what has occurred until now was never dependent on our choices. Success is not about choosing the right job, field, or investment. It's about placing our trust in the One who controls all outcomes. It is not the business or merchandise that brings parnasah — only Hashem does. To Him, it doesn't matter which field we choose. We are always led to choose what we are meant to choose, and our parnasah is exactly what Hashem has decreed for us. Our decisions never change that. Shabbat Shalom

On today's supernatural Friday podcast, we share a testimony of a bank robber who robs the wrong bank, and it leads to his salvation.  Be blessed and enjoy the mercy of God in this story.  

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Torah StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah in the resplendent Name of Yahusha HaMashiach be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Word StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

The pasuk in this week's parasha , Emor , says: מִמּוֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם תָּבִיאוּ לֶחֶם תְּנוּפָה "From your dwelling places, you shall bring bread that shall be waved." ( Vayikra 23:17) This refers to the shtei ha-lechem offering brought on Shavuot . The Sefer Zara D'Yosef brings a beautiful homiletical interpretation from the author of Melo HaRo'im al HaShas . Some people believe that the reason they have a good parnasah is because their business is in a great location—throngs of people pass by, and many of them stop in to make purchases. To such thinking, the Torah responds with astonishment: מִמּוֹשְׁבֹתֵיכֶם תָּבִיאוּ לֶחֶם Do you really think it's from your moshavot —your location—that you bring in bread? The Torah then says: תְּנוּפָה This word, tenufah , which usually refers to the waving of the offering, can be understood here as: tenu peh —"give your mouth," meaning tefillah . The true source of parnasah is Hashem , and we must turn to Him in prayer. That is the real source of blessing. One reason Hashem made it that we need parnasah is so that we would be constantly drawn to ask Him for it. There is nothing more beneficial than having a close connection with Hashem , speaking to Him at all times. We should never take anything for granted. Rav Elimelech miLezhensk once had a student who received a weekly stipend and had all his meals provided for. Thinking he no longer needed to pray for parnasah , he stopped doing so. That same day, when meals were distributed, this student was the only one not given a fork. It took so long to receive one that by the time he got it, his food was cold. Rav Elimelech told him, "Even for a fork, you must pray to Hashem ." Rav Shmuel Tefilinsky wrote in a kuntres that if someone is struggling with parnasah or being pressured by a creditor, he should not think that a poor decision or particular event caused his situation. Hashem orchestrates all circumstances. He alone decides how much a person will earn or lose, and He has infinite ways to provide for someone. Sometimes, Hashem doesn't even need to send money—He fulfills our needs in other, unexpected ways. One man shared that he lived in what he called a "little hole"—a tiny attic apartment, barely big enough for a table, bed, and lamp, far above the other floors in a building. When people asked about his future plans, he always said, "I want an apartment in Yerushalayim." Everyone thought he was unrealistic—he couldn't even afford a regular apartment in a cheaper area, and yet he was dreaming of Yerushalayim, where apartments were well over two million shekels. His wife urged him to be more practical. But he would say, "No matter what apartment we get, we'll need money we don't have. Since Hashem is the source of that money, and He owns all the gold and silver in the world, there's no difference to Him whether He gives us 800,000 shekels or 2.2 million. It's all the same to Him." Every day, he prayed from the depths of his heart for an apartment in Yerushalayim, where he hoped to live a more spiritual life. One day, walking through a Jerusalem street, a man approached him and asked if he knew anyone looking for an apartment in Yerushalayim. "I am," he said immediately. The man pointed to a nearby building and explained that the apartment there had been on the market for years. Every deal had fallen through at the last minute. Now, the owner was desperate and willing to sell it for nearly half the original price. The man visited the apartment—it was spacious and just what he wanted. The price: under one million shekels. If someone had told him that people would eventually be begging him to buy an apartment in Yerushalayim at an affordable price, he would have said it sounds impossible. But with Hashem , nothing is impossible. He bought it and moved into his dream apartment. All because of tefillah and emunah . Parnasah comes only from Hashem , and He can provide everything a person needs—whether through money or without it. Shabbat Shalom

On our supernatural Friday Podcast, we share a story of a missionary who was kidnapped for sharing the gospel and experienced a great trial, but the Lord worked a miracle through it all.  Listen in and be inspired by such faith.  

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Word StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Torah StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah in the resplendent Name of Yahusha HaMashiach be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Parashat Emor [Leviticus 21:1-24:23] is perhaps best known for chapter 23, which describes the holidays and is the Torah reading on the 2nd day of Passover and the first 2 days of Sukkot. It is surrounded by laws related to the priesthood [including restrictions on contact with the dead and whom priests are permitted to marry] and a collection of laws which features one of the few narratives in Leviticus, the curious case of the blasphemer [24:10-22]. It is a spirited discussion; we hope you enjoy it! We are fortunate to take note of the release of Edan Alexander, and continue to pray and hope for the release of all the remaining captives in Gaza, both the dead and the living. We continue to keep in mind the soldiers defending Israel as part of the Israel Defense Forces, may they be removed from harm's way. Shabbat Shalom.

Parashat Acharei Mot-K'doshim [Leviticus 16-20] is another double parashah. Acharei Mot is mostly known because it is read on Yom Kippur, chapter 16 about Yom Kippur in the morning, and chapter 18, traditionally, about the forbidden sexual relationships in the afternoon. K'doshim is perhaps best known for what Rabbi Aqiva recognized as the great principle of the Torah, v-ahavta l-rei'akha kamocha, you should love your neighbor as yourself [Lev. 19:18]. We took note that this verse is paired with a later one [19:34], which commands love of the resident alien in our midst as well. It is hard to pass up the rich text of Leviticus 19, the beginning of the Holiness Code, and so we discussed some of the laws that spoke to us. We also discussed at some length the difference between Leviticus 19 and Exodus 20, which share many of the same laws but cast them in different lights. The Ten Commandments are addressed to the individual who belongs to a nation; chapter 19 is an exercise in community formation. While there is never enough time to discuss all that we want, there is always next week, and next year! We continue to keep in mind the hostages you remain in Gaza, and pray fervently that they will be speedily returned to their families. We also keep in mind the soldiers defending Israel as part of the Israel Defense Forces, may they be removed from harm's way. Shabbat Shalom.

Where do you find resilience? Do you rebound easily? Join guest speaker Rabbi Dr. Bruce Tucker of Congregation Beth Judah in Ormond Beach, Florida, as he emphasizes the L-rd's reminders that He is the source of all that we are, and that we can be uplifted when we pursue Him. G-d can ease any discord or dysfunction, because He has ultimate strength, love, and compassion. Shabbat Shalom!Leviticus 16.1-4; Leviticus 18.1-5; Leviticus 19.1-4; Leviticus 19.15-18; Amos 9.11-15; 1 Corinthians 8.1-6; 1 Corinthians 10.1-4; 1 Corinthians 10.13; 1 Corinthians 11.23-26Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

Leviticus 16:1-18:302nd Corinthians 2:12-17Hebrews 9:6-28LEARN GODS INSTRUCTIONS AND THINGS WILL GO WELL WITH YOU.

In Loving Memory of Zechariah Ben Sarah A'H and to Commemorate Sam and Zach's shared Birthday Sponsored by their Families Friends and Loved Ones Parashat Kedoshim commands us: " לא תקם ולא תטור " —do not take revenge and do not bear a grudge. The Sefer HaChinuch explains that the root of this mitzvah is to help a person internalize that whatever happens to him, even through the actions of other people, is ultimately a manifestation of Hashem's will. Similarly, the Chovot HaLevavot teaches that if someone harms us, we should not attribute it to that individual, but rather recognize it as part of Hashem's plan. Our proper response should be to give the person the benefit of the doubt, accept the hardship as atonement for our sins, and continue treating the person with kindness as if nothing happened. Although this is emotionally difficult and the desire for revenge can be powerful, trusting Hashem's commandments brings far more long-term joy than the fleeting satisfaction of retaliation. While it may take time to see, the righteous response always proves fruitful. A real estate agent named Reuven shared a personal story that illustrates this concept powerfully. He had closed a deal for an old friend, Jack, who then "forgot" to pay the agreed-upon commission. When reminded, Jack delayed, then disputed the fee, eventually avoiding Reuven entirely. Though the amount owed was significant, Reuven decided not to pursue it aggressively. Months later, Reuven prayed Mincha in a shul he didn't usually attend and unexpectedly encountered Jack. Reuven greeted him warmly and gently reminded him about the money. Jack exploded with rage, shouting and accusing Reuven of harassment in front of the entire shul. He hurled insults, and Reuven—devastated and humiliated—left in silence. Though tempted to defend himself, Reuven remained quiet. He later cried from the pain but reminded himself that he was serving Hashem by staying silent in the face of insult. That night, he took a walk and tried to follow the teachings of Chovot HaLevavot . He told Hashem he accepted the experience as a kapara for his sins, gave Jack the benefit of the doubt, and even decided to forgive him fully. Reuven even sent word to Jack that the debt was forgiven. A few months later, on Erev Yom Kippur , Jack called to apologize and offered to pay half the debt. Reuven reminded him it had already been forgiven, but Jack insisted on making partial payment to clear his conscience. Later, Jack struggled to sell his house for over a year. Because of their history, Reuven kept his distance. But when they met again, Jack confided his frustration and desperation. Reuven offered to help sell the house—and Jack, understanding full well what that entailed, agreed. With siyata dishmaya , Reuven sold the house within two weeks and earned a commission forty times greater than the original debt. Had he acted differently—harbored resentment or retaliated—he likely would have received nothing and lost the future opportunity altogether. By responding as Hashem commands, Reuven earned not only immense spiritual merit but also blessing in this world. The lesson is clear: we always win by following Hashem. No matter how difficult the test, if we trust in Him, He will guide us to reward and peace. Shabbat Shalom

On today's Supernatural Friday podcast, we share a testimony of a young lady whose parents tried to abort, but God!!! In this story, we see many layers of miracles and hope for all.  Listen in and receive.  

Tazria-Metzora [Leviticus 12-15] is the first in a series of doubled parashiyot in the Book of Leviticus. With its emphasis on afflictions of the body, some caused by disease and some caused by natural processes, it has been a test for those seeking to find homiletical material connected to the text. It has been well said that doubling up makes the task easier in that there is only one difficult week, rather than two. Nevertheless, the parashiyot do raise some fascinating questions for the modern mind. Can we envision a priestly Judaism in 2025? Should we place as much emphasis on the body as a tool for religious expresssion as our ancestors apparently did? What might we learn from the biblical example where the issue of tumah and taharah [impurity and purity] with respect to tzara'at [often translated, mistakenly, as leprosy] is decided by the priest rather than the disease itself? And finally, the bayit ha-menuga, the house afflicted by leprosy, is one of 3 cases [the other two being the stubborn and rebellious son (Deuteronomy 21:18-21) and the city given over to idol worship (Deuteronomy 13:13-19], where one sage said the case never happened and another said he had personal witness. What do we make of two thoroughly incompatible opinions on the same page of the Talmud? Since this is the week, too, of Yom Ha-zikkaron [Israel's Memorial Day] and Yom Ha-atzma'ut [Israel's Independence Day], we discussed these as well [we recorded Sunday night, 4/27/2025]. We feel even more keenly the plight of the hostages who remain in Gaza, and pray even more fervently for their speedy release and for the safety of all those who defend Israel as part of the Israel Defense Forces. Shabbat Shalom.

It is forbidden to extend the greeting of "Shalom" to a mourner within twelve months of the passing of his or her father or mother, Heaven forbid. A person who has recently suffered such a loss is not in a position to experience "Shalom," and this greeting is thus inappropriate during this period. A mourner is allowed to extend such a greeting to others; the prohibition applies only to others greeting a mourner with the word "Shalom." It is permissible to extend other kinds of greetings to a mourner, such as "good morning," "good health," and the like. The Sages enacted this prohibition only with regard to the specific greeting of "Shalom." With regard to the common greeting of "Shabbat Shalom" on Shabbat, the Shulhan Aruch, in the laws of mourning, records a custom (based on the Talmud Yerushalmi) to allow extending the greeting of "Shabbat Shalom" to mourners on Shabbat, and this is, indeed, the accepted practice. It is also permissible to extend to a mourner the greeting of "Shalom Alechem" that is customarily exchanged after Birkat Ha'lebana. The reason for this greeting is that since we recite several verses about the downfall of our enemies ("Tipol Alehem Emata Va'fahad…"), we greet one another with "Shalom Alechem" to make it clear that we did not have one another in mind when we expressed our hopes for our enemies' demise. Thus, this greeting is intended not as a friendly gesture, but rather to avoid possible misunderstandings and ill-will, and it is therefore permissible to extend this greeting to a mourner. Furthermore, this greeting is formulated in the plural form – "Alechem" – and thus refers to the entire congregation, and not only to the particular individual that one addresses, and for this reason, too, one may extend this greeting to a mourner. It is forbidden to give a mourner a gift throughout the twelve-month period after a parent's passing. There is no greater "friendly greeting" than a gift, and one therefore may not give a gift to a mourner within twelve months after the passing of his or her parent. This discussion applies only to one observing Abelut (mourning) over a father or mother, Heaven forbid. In the case of one who lost another family member, Heaven forbid, these restrictions apply only during the first thirty days, but not afterward. Summary: It is forbidden to greet a mourner with the greeting of "Shalom," or give a mourner a gift, within twelve months of the passing of his or her parent. It is permissible, however, to extend other greetings, and to greet a mourner with the greeting of "Shabbat Shalom" on Shabbat, and with the "Shalom Alechem" greeting customarily extended after Birkat Ha'lebana. In the case of the passing of another family member (as opposed to a parent), these Halachot apply only during the first thirty days.

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Torah StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah in the resplendent Name of Yahusha HaMashiach be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Word StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

May 3 2025Leviticus 12:13-59, 14:1-15:33 2 Kings 7:3-20Mark 5:1-43Luke 17;1-37 from the Complete Jewish Bible

How far can you see? Are you frustrated by uncertainty? Join guest speaker, Pastor Matt Johnston, from North Metro Church, as he recognizes the limits of what we can see, and that G-d can abide with us and be our guide as His vision is vastly greater. Invite Him to dwell with you always, even if your horizon is limited, because you can take comfort and have joy knowing that He holds the future. Shabbat Shalom!Exodus 13.20-22; Psalm 90.1; John 1.14; John 15.9-11Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

In Parashat Tazria , the Midrash relates a poignant story about a Kohen who served his community by diagnosing tzara'at . After losing all his wealth, he faced the painful dilemma of how to support his wife and children. With no viable options in his hometown, he resolved to leave Israel in search of livelihood. As he prepared to depart, he trained his wife—his only possible successor—in the laws of tzara'at . He taught her: "Every hair has its root, and the condition of the hair reveals the state of that root. If a hair becomes dry and colorless, it indicates that the affliction at its root is severe. But if the hair remains healthy, then the affliction is healing." His wife asked, "What if there are two hairs growing from one root?" He replied, "Each hair has its own root and is sustained individually." With profound insight, his wife responded, "If Hashem created a source of sustenance for every single hair, then surely He created sustenance for each one of your hairs—and for each of our children's hairs. And if Hashem is so meticulous in sustaining even a single hair, how much more so will He provide for you and our family." Her words, full of Emunah and clarity, convinced him to remain in Israel. Struggling with Parnassah is an intense and painful challenge. Chazal teach that if all other forms of suffering were placed on one side of a scale and poverty on the other, poverty would outweigh them all. Yet because the test is so great, the spiritual opportunity it offers is equally immense. The Chovot HaLevavot writes in the Shad HaBitachon that if a person's Parnassah is delayed in coming, he should think in his heart of how Hashem brought his Nishama down from the Kisei HaKavod into this world to do a job specifically at this time in history. The world has a 6,000 year plan and for reasons that only Hashem knows, He placed this person's Nishama specifically at this time. The same Hashem is the One in charge of giving him his Parnassah and he is the One who is holding it back now. And He knows that this is what is going to enable him to succeed in his mission. There is nothing better for a person than to go through the current period with his Parnassah delayed in coming. If he can internalize this and trust that Hashem is doing what's best for him, it would make him so great. It is very possible that the whole test is just to see how the person will respond and perhaps in the Zichut of the proper response, his future Parnassah will come in abundance. A man shared his experience: he had launched a promising business venture with two investors ready to commit both capital and valuable ideas. At the final moment, both investors inexplicably withdrew. Undeterred, he pivoted to another opportunity, this time drawing serious interest from a large institutional investor. The deal appeared certain—so much so that plans were being made for post-investment operations. He prayed fervently. But again, without clear explanation, the investor backed out. One by one, other prospective clients also disappeared.He was left bewildered, caught in a whirlwind of hope and disappointment. He has been praying and improving in Torah and mitzvot but is seeing no success in Parnassah. Of course, he should continue praying and improving but the greatest thing he could do is to accept with love that Hashem was behind everything that happened and it was all for his best, for him to fulfill his purpose in this world. We hope Hashem will shower him with Parnassah but in the meantime, he can rise to great levels by trusting Hashem and understanding that he was acting in his best interests. He can feel calm and composed knowing that he is in Hashem's hands and he could radiate that emunah to his family. The spiritual elevation he will get from that avodah will be worth more than any Parnassah that anyone could ever have. The tests in Parnassah are very difficult but that just means that the rewards for overcoming them are that much greater. Shabbat Shalom.

Join us today on our supernatural Friday Podcast as we share a testimony of a man who was arrested and imprisoned for the gospel yet God never left nor forsook him until he was free.  Watch this and then pray for it. Miracles in your own life today.  

When people face hardship, their instinctive response is often to seek extra mercy from Hashem. They might take on new halachic stringencies, elevate their level of kavanah during tefillah , and pray with greater emotion, sincerity, and even tears. They do their best to act with heightened spiritual awareness, all in the hope that these efforts will bring about a salvation. But when time passes and the situation doesn't improve—or even worsens—it becomes increasingly difficult to keep that spiritual momentum going. Some begin to feel that their prayers and efforts are going unnoticed. "If Hashem isn't responding," they wonder, "why should I keep trying?" For some, this disillusionment may evolve into frustration or anger, leading them to distance themselves from mitzvot or religious observance altogether. They may begin to question whether Hashem truly cares. But we must hold on to a critical truth: Hashem cares more than we can possibly understand . The fact that we haven't received what we've asked for is not a sign of divine indifference. Rather, it is a reflection of Hashem's infinite wisdom. He sees the complete picture—past, present, and future. He knows our mission in this world, and what is best for us at every stage, even when we cannot comprehend it. And when the struggle to stay spiritually committed intensifies, our avodah becomes all the more meaningful. Hashem cherishes every sincere effort we make—especially when it is difficult. A man in the real estate business shared his story. His industry had been facing a downturn, and one failed deal after another left him with no leads and growing discouragement. He reached a low point and, for the first time in his life, contemplated skipping shul on Shabbat. In frustration, he told himself he wouldn't go. That Friday afternoon, he had his usual call with a business associate—a non-Jewish Irish gentleman with whom he regularly discussed the market, business trends, and more. Every week, their call ended with the man wishing him, "Shabbat Shalom." But this week was different. As they were about to hang up, instead of the usual farewell, the man simply said, "Okay, go to shul now," and then ended the call. The timing was uncanny. For the first time in decades, this man had planned not to go to shul , and here was Hashem sending him a message—through the mouth of a gentile associate—urging him not to break his lifelong habit. It was a moment of clarity. Hashem had been watching and cherishing each one of this man's tefillot for over fifty years. He didn't want him to miss even one. The man went to shul that night, full of gratitude. He thanked Hashem for the unexpected chizuk , and for reminding him how deeply valued his efforts are. Yes, business may be tough. Life may feel overwhelming. But that should never diminish our trust in Hashem or our commitment to His mitzvot. In fact, when maintaining emunah is hardest, that's when it shines brightest.

Join Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa fellowship for a two-part look at parsha "Shmini," Leviticus chapters 9 through 11. The Erev Shabbat (Friday evening) reading begins with the story of the "eighth [shmini] day" and the events leading to the deaths of Aaron's two eldest sons. And it completes with the instruction of what is "food," and what is not. The confluence certainly suggests there is a connection, regardless of what we may have been told by many who, "by your traditions, make the commandments of YHVH of no effect." The Erev Shabbat reading: https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/SSM-4-25-25-Shmini-teaching-podcast-xxx.mp3 As seems to be so often the case, the Torah portion story this week has a relevance to current events that demonstrates the timelessness of the message, as the lawless claim that "no one is above the law," has become a sick joke. Mark notes that there has been much discussion over the centuries of why "Aaron kept his peace," or remained silent, after the death of his two oldest sons, Nadab and Abihu. One of the explanations might be that he realized, after the 'golden calf,' that he, himself, had arguably deserved, but been spared, a similar fate. So, why those two? What did they really do? Even though Scripture explicitly tells us, questions remain. Because, "to whom much is given, much is expected." Shmini: "No One is Above the Law. And they Knew, or Should Have Known." https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WT-CooH-4-26-25-Shmini-NO-One-is-Above-the-Law-Knew-or-Should-Have-podcast-xxx.mp3 The combined two-part reading and Sabbath midrash:

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Torah StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah in the resplendent Name of Yahusha HaMashiach be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Word StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

Leviticus 9:1-11:47,2nd Samual 6:1-7:17Acts 10:1-11:18Many Christians quote PETER about the vision he had regarding the sheet to justify their eating of pork, snakes and rodents ... but here we hear if only they had read on they will see it had nothing to do with actual food.

Our Sages teach us that the world stands on three pillars: Torah , Avodah , and Gemilut Chasadim . Rabbi David Najjar found a fascinating allusion to this concept in a Passuk from this week's Parashah, Shemini . The Passuk states: " ואת העולה המציאו אליו לנתחיה ואת הראש ויקטר על המזבח " — referring to the korban olah . Rabbi Najjar notes that the initial letters of the phrase " ואת העולה המציאו אליו " spell out the divine name with which Hashem created the world — suggesting a connection to the creation of the universe itself. Since the Passuk discusses the korban olah , it clearly alludes to Avodah , one of the world's foundational pillars. Furthermore, the first letters of " לנתחיה ואת הראש " form the word " לוה " — meaning "lent," a reference to Gemilut Chasadim . The final letters of the words " אליו לנתחיה ואת הראש " spell out תושיה" " , a term associated with Torah , as seen in the Passuk from Mishlei: " נצור תושיה ומזימה " ("Guard sound wisdom and discretion"). Hence, this single Passuk subtly contains allusions to the three pillars upon which the world stands. Additionally, another Passuk in the Parashah — " וירא כבוד ה' " ("The glory of Hashem appeared") — has the same gematria (numerical value) as " בצדקה וחסד " ("through charity and kindness"), reinforcing the idea that performing acts of kindness and giving charity is a form of honoring Hashem. Hashem often presents us with opportunities to give tzedakah or perform chesed as a test of our faith and character. Parting with our time or money can be difficult, but we must remember: we never lose by honoring Hashem. He is fully capable of repaying us many times over. One individual shared that a rabbi he knew reached out, requesting help with the final $12,000 needed for a down payment on a home. The rabbi promised to repay $1,000 monthly over the next year. Although it was a significant sum, the man agreed to help. Shortly after, an unexpected announcement regarding the tariffs put all of his orders on hold, causing him to reconsider. However, he reminded himself that he had already committed — and more importantly, that the rabbi needed the funds. He overcame his hesitation and sent the full $12,000. A few days later, he unexpectedly received a check from the IRS for nearly $15,000. Neither he nor his accountant could explain it — until it became clear to him: this was all a test from Hashem. He was never meant to have to give up that money, Hashem just wanted to see if he would be able to part with it in the performance of this great Mitzvah of lending money. Another man shared a similar story. A friend urgently needed $315, and without hesitation, he handed over his credit card. Due to a minor credit card fee, he ended up paying $324. Less than an hour later, he returned home to find that the fencing work he'd commissioned had just been completed. The invoice totaled $3,324 — but the contractor offered to reduce the charge to an even $3,000. The amount waived? Exactly $324. These stories beautifully illustrate the divine providence and care Hashem shows those who give generously. Acts of tzedakah and chesed not only honor Hashem — they bring His blessings into our lives. Shabbat Shalom.

Join us today on our Supernatural Friday podcast as we share a testimony of a Muslim man who had a dream and an encounter with Jesus and now serves as a pastor.  Listen in and be encouraged by this story.  

Parashat Sh'mini [Levitcus 9-11] is the third parashah in Levitcus, and features the culminating ceremony for the inauguration of the mishkan, what Baruch Levine calls “The Initiation of Formal Worship” in his JPS Commentary on Leviticus. It culminates with the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu, which we discuss at some length. We also touch upon Yom HaSho'ah, Holocaust Remebrance Day, which is observed Wednesday evening, April 23, and Thursday, April 24. We are ever mindful of the hostages, dead and alive, and hope for the speedy return to their families. We pray that the soldiers defending Israel as part if its Defense Forces are removed from harm's way. Shabbat Shalom.

This shabbat is shabbat/yom tov sh'vi'i of Pesach, the shabbat that coincides with the 7th day of Pesach, which is a holiday. In Israel, where Eliot is for the birth of his 2nd granddaughter, it is the last day of Passover. In the Diaspora, Sunday [April 20th] is the 8th and concluding day of Passover. For the rabbis, the 7th day of Passover was the day when the Israelites crossed the Sea of Reeds [sometimes mistakenly referred to as the Red Sea], which culminated with the song, Az Yashir [Exodus 15:1-21]. Our conversation focused almost entirely on the passage itself through the Sea of Reeds, and some of the elements of the song, which appears in two versions, one led by Moses, and a shorter one led by Miriam. We continue to be mindful of the hostages still in Gaza, both the dead and the living, and the need for them to be returned to their families. In this season of redemption, we pray that redemption speedily comes to those held captive. We also keep in mind the soldiers defending Israel as part of Israel's Defense Forces, may they be removed from harm's way. Shabbat Shalom v'Chag Sa'me'each.

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Word StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Torah StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah in the resplendent Name of Yahusha HaMashiach be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

What can Pesach tell us about what is to come? Do you desire G-d's care? Join Rabbi Eric Lakatos of Congregation Tikvat Yisrael in Cleveland, Ohio, and chairman of the International Alliance of Messianic Congregations and Synagogues as he deep dives into Passover and how it can inform our past, present, and future. G-d loves us so much that He has a plan to ultimately deliver us if we choose Him and accept his love. Shabbat Shalom!Exodus 14.29-31; Exodus 15.1-2; 2 Samuel 22.1; 2 Samuel 22.47-51; Song of Songs 2.1-13; Song of Songs 6.3; Luke 22.15; Deuteronomy 4.29-30; Revelation 14.1-5; Revelation 15.1-8; Jeremiah 23.5-8; Revelation 20.9-10; Romans 10.9-10Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

On today's Supernatural Friday Podcast we share a testimony of a Jewish man from Galilee and his supernatural encounter that changed his life.  Listen in and let this testimony speak hope to you. 

The final Torah portion reading from the Book of Exodus is parsha "Pekudei" (the 'Accounts', Exodus 38:21 through the end of the Book) and it begins with exactly that: a recounting of the gold, silver, and brass that were used to complete the mishkan, or tabernacle in the wilderness. Again, too, there is much detail, almost to the point of redundancy, but for what appears to be an important reason. Almost word-for-word, what we had been told they WERE to do, is now recounted that they did. And, over and over again, it was "as Yahuah commanded Moses." Surely there is a lesson there. The Erev Shabbat reading: https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/SSM-3-28-25-Pekudei-teaching-podcast-x.mp3 This parsha seems to give an answer to the question, "Why?" Why build that 'mishkan' together? Why is that phrase "as Yahuah commanded Moshe," repeated eighteen TIMES in this parsha alone? Why does this still matter? Especially now? "Pekudei: As YHVH commanded Moshe - we had still better know and do" https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/WT-CooH-3-29-25-Pekudei-As-YHVH-Commanded-Moshe-so-WE-had-better-DO-podcast-xxx.mp3 The combined podcast is here:

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Torah StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah in the resplendent Name of Yahusha HaMashiach be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Shalom, mishpacha! Welcome to our weekly Word StudyThank you for joining and may Yahuah our Aluah be with you and your family this Shabbat! Shalom!If you are led and would like to donate:PayPal: Ahav~Love Ministry

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

We begin the Seder with the Ha Lachma Anya , which speaks about the matzah and ends with the words, "Now we are still in Galut. We hope to be in Eretz Yisrael with the Beit HaMikdash before next year's Seder." Rabbi Ronen Sharabani gave a beautiful explanation in his new Haggada Me'afar Kumi about why we begin with this. Chazal tell us that the final ge'ula will take place in the month of Nisan. So, when the month begins, all of Klal Yisrael is hoping to be in Yerushalayim with the Korban Pesach by the night of the Seder. However, if Lel HaSeder arrives and once again Mashiach has not come, it could cause a person to enter the Seder with feelings of despair, thinking: "We've made this request of L'shanah Haba'ah B'Yerushalayim every year of our entire lives—and it still hasn't happened. What's going to give us chizuk to think that things will ever change?" For this, the Rabbis tell us to begin the Seder speaking about the matza. The Seforno writes on the pasuk describing Yosef Hatzaddik being rushed out of prison that this is the way of all salvations that Hashem brings—they come in an instant. Even when it looks like there's no hope in sight, things can suddenly change. And this is what happened in Mitzrayim. The pasuk says they were rushed out of Egypt without enough time for their dough to rise. Matza is the symbol of an instant salvation. And so it says about the future geula : פתאום יבוא אל היכלו —Mashiach is going to come suddenly. When we internalize that the salvations of Hashem come in an instant, we will never despair, because we know everything can change in a moment's notice. What we see today has nothing to do with tomorrow—and the same applies to the difficulties people are currently experiencing. No matter how long it's been, no matter how dismal it seems, salvation can always come in an instant. A woman told me she got married about twenty years ago and was looking forward to a joyful home filled with children. After seven long years of waiting for their miracle, they were blessed with a precious daughter who indeed filled their hearts with the joy they had hoped for. For years after that, they tried every possible method to have another child, but it wasn't working. They delved deeply into learning and practicing emunah , and then, with the advice of their rabbi, they decided to take a pause from all their efforts and instead focus on enjoying the life they had. Especially since they were making so many efforts, they risked attributing success or failure to their own actions rather than to Hashem. They spent a year focusing more on spirituality, adopting a healthier lifestyle, eating better, exercising regularly, and appreciating everything Hashem had already given them. Then they went back to the doctor to try another treatment. Everything was looking good. They were awaiting results from a certain test, and when the results came back positive, they were thrilled. Even the doctor was elated. He told them they needed to repeat the test two more times. The second time, the numbers were even better. But on the third test, the results took a turn the other way. After eight long years of waiting for their second child, it appeared that once again they were going to be let down. That night, they called a hotline for emunah , and amazingly, there was a story shared about a childless couple who had been told by their doctor that they would never have children. The husband went for a drive afterward to clear his mind, and when he returned home, he found that his wife had set the table with their finest china. She told him, "We're going to celebrate all we have, despite the sorrowful news." The next morning, at 5 a.m., they received a phone call from the fertility clinic saying it had been a mistake—and that she actually was going to have a child after all. This woman and her husband took that story as a direct message from Hashem. They picked themselves up and enjoyed that Shabbat more than ever. They sang with their 8-year-old miracle girl. They expressed gratitude and celebrated all the blessings that Hashem had given them. That Motzaei Shabbat , they went for another test, and amazingly, everything changed for the better. Baruch Hashem , that year, they were blessed with their second miracle baby. The salvations of Hashem always come in an instant. This is the chizuk we give ourselves at the beginning of the Seder, and this is something we must always keep in mind. B'ezrat Hashem , we should see the Geula Shelema and celebrate this holiday in Yerushalayim with the Korban Pesach. But even if that doesn't happen— even then —it doesn't mean the geula can't come a second later. Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach.

Join us on today's supernatural Friday Podcast as we share a story of a young lady from Nazareth whose life in Israel was completely transformed by Yeshua.  

The pasuk in this week's parsha states: " ויקרא אל משה וידבר ה' אליו מאהל מועד לאמר " - Hashem called to Moshe, and then Moshe entered to speak with Him. At the end of Parashat Pekudei, it says that Moshe was unable to enter the Ohel Mo'ed because the cloud of Hashem had descended upon it. However, in Parashat Mishpatim, it states that Moshe entered the cloud of Hashem at Har Sinai, which seems to indicate that he was able to enter. The Ohr HaChaim explains that in that instance, it first says " ויקרא אל משה " , meaning Hashem called Moshe in first. A person cannot simply enter a place where the Shechina resides. However, if Hashem calls the person in, then it becomes possible. That is why Parashat Vayikra begins with Hashem calling Moshe to enter the Ohel Mo'ed. What did Moshe do to merit this calling? The Shevet Mussar explains that Moshe did not contribute any donations toward the Mishkan, even though he was in charge of its construction. Specifically because he did not contribute, Moshe was chosen for this role—so that no one could ever claim personal credit for building Hashem's house. The Midrash states that the phrase " כאשר צוה ה' את משה " appears 18 times regarding the Mishkan. It gives a parable of a king who commanded his servant to build him a palace. On each part that the servant built, he wrote the name of the king—on the walls, on the pillars, on every detail of the palace. When the king entered and saw his name everywhere, he said: "My servant has honored me so much, and yet I am inside while he remains outside." Immediately, the king called his servant to enter the palace. Similarly, when Hashem instructed Moshe to construct the Mishkan, Moshe "wrote" on everything " כאשר צוה ה' את משה " . Hashem saw that Moshe had given Him all the honor, while he himself remained outside. In response, Hashem called Moshe inside. The phrase " כאשר צוה ה' את משה " reflects Moshe's complete self-nullification. He did not take any credit for his role; rather, he attributed everything to Hashem. Even though Moshe did not physically build the Mishkan, he stood by the workers, reminding them that their strength and talent came from Hashem. He even reminded Betzalel, despite his wisdom, not to lose focus and to recognize that all his abilities were granted by Hashem. The one who did not physically labor was the one invited in—because he gave Hashem the most honor. Humility, in which a person attributes everything to Hashem, brings Hashem honor. In turn, Hashem honors that person. The letter Aleph in Vayikra is small. The Gemara explains that in Moshe's humility, he wanted it to appear as Vayikar (without the Aleph ), implying that Hashem " ויקר -happened" to appear to him, rather than explicitly calling him. He wrote the Aleph small so it would not seem as though he was exceptionally deserving. In the end, Hashem used the extra ink from the small Aleph to make Moshe's face shine. Moshe's name is absent from the Haggadah because Yetziat Mitzrayim was meant to teach for all generations that Hashem alone controls the world. One of the reasons Moshe was chosen as the leader was because he was willing to remove himself from the story and give all credit to Hashem. His humility allowed him to gain immeasurably. Each day, we have the opportunity to serve Hashem in this way. The more we attribute everything we have and do to HaKadosh Baruch Hu , the more He rests His presence upon us. If we internalize that all success comes solely from Him, we truly honor Hashem—and in that merit, may He call us closer to Him. We all desire closeness with Hashem. The path to achieving it is through humility—by recognizing that everything we have and everything we accomplish is entirely from Him. Shabbat Shalom.

Join us today for our Supernatural Friday Podcast as we found and share a testimony of a jewish man in Jerusalem that we delivered and set free by the power of Yeshua.  

Living Emunah 2738 Parashat Pekudei: No Matter What In the beginning of parashat Pekudei, the Torah calls the Mishkan, the Mishkan of testimony. One of the things it testified to was Hashem's great love for us. The Mefarshim are bothered why the Torah repeats so much about the Mishkan in parashiyot Vayakhel and Pekudei, after they were already mentioned in Terumah Tetzaveh. Some explain the Jewish people were commanded to build a house for Hashem before they did the Chet Haegel. After they committed that grievous sin, they felt so distanced from Hashem and feared they would never be able to bring His presence down to dwell amongst them. However, after they made Teshuva, Hashem told Moshe to tell the Jewish people that He wants the exact same Mishkan built with every detail and that He was going to dwell with them. And that is why the details are repeated after the Chet Haegel. We see from here that no matter what a Jew does, Hashem always wants him back. We should never feel that because of our sins that Hashem doesn't want us. All we have to do is say that we are sorry and Hashem will be waiting with open arms, kavyachol, to bring us closer. Rabbi Snir Gueta told a story about a young woman named Shlomit. After years of waiting for a child, her parents were blessed with her birth. Tragically, a few years later, her mother fell ill and passed away, leaving her father to raise her alone. He tried his best to connect to his daughter and give her all the love and attention that he could. As she grew during her teenage years, she began drifting from the religious path that he was trying so hard to keep her on. As she got older, she drifted further until she was constantly arguing with her father about religion. She told him outright she was not interested in being religious. Her father kept telling her that he promised her mother that he would raise her to be a true Bat Yisrael, but she wouldn't change. One day she told her father she was leaving home and moving to India. Her father yelled at her, saying that she was being so insensitive, ignoring his request and leaving him all alone. She apologized for leaving him, but said she was going no matter what. Her father, in a moment of desperation, said to her, "If you leave, you are not welcome back. I will never forgive you for this." Her friends were waiting outside, and she left. She was in India for three years. At that time, one of her friends from Israel traveled there, and when she saw her, she hugged her, telling her how much she missed her. And then she gave her her condolences over the death of her father. Shlomit couldn't believe what she was hearing. She had no idea that her father passed away. She began crying uncontrollably, regretting the nonsense that she had been involved in over the past three years, completely abandoning her father and Hashem. She took the next flight back to Israel, and went straight to the cemetery, searching for her father's grave. When she finally found it, she sat there, crying, begging for him to forgive her. She said, "Please, Abba, I made the worst mistake. I will come back to Hashem now. All I want is for you to forgive me." She then went to the Kotel. She stood right by the mechitza between the men and women, and pulled out a piece of paper and wrote a note to Hashem, asking Him to please show her if her father forgave her for what she did. She put the note in the wall, and it immediately fell out. There was no room in any hole there for her note. She saw by the edge of the mechitza, in the men's section, an opening, and she put it there. When she put it down, another note fell out. She picked it up, and saw the name Shlomit bat Chana. She opened it, and began to read, and started to tremble. It said, "Borei olam, my daughter is in India, please bring her back to Teshuva. Her name is Shlomit Bat Chana. If I could talk to her right now, I would tell her that I forgive her for everything. All I want is for her to come back to You, Hashem." Shlomit broke out in tears, and thanked Hashem, and fully came back to Torah and Mitzvot. A human father is willing to take his daughter back, no matter what she does. All the more so, Hakadosh Baruch Hu wants every one of His children back, no matter what they have done. Hashem loves and wants every Jew close to Him. All we have to do is be sincere. Shabbat Shalom.