Podcasts about shabbat shalom

All year long, a person naturally gets his sense of security from the things that surround him. He has a house with strong walls and a solid roof. He has money in the bank, a good job, insurance, doctors, family, and people he could call when he needs help. And without realizing it, a person can start to feel, "I am protected. I'm secure." On Sukkot, Hashem tells us to leave our house. We go and sit under the s'chach, a roof that does not give us any real physical protection. And this is the Yom Tov that the Torah tells us, more than any other, is the holiday of simcha, of happiness. Because Hashem is teaching us that one of the greatest sources of happiness is knowing Who is really protecting us. A person thinks his house protects him, but how many things could happen inside the strongest house? He thinks his money protects him, but money could disappear in an instant. He thinks a certain person could help him, but that person could suddenly be unable to help. None of those things offer any real protection. They are just the means that Hashem uses to protect us. For seven days, Hashem tells us, "Come outside. Leave behind the illusion of security and come sit with Me." Chazal tell us that Sukkot commemorates the Ananei HaKavod, the Clouds of Glory that surrounded the Jewish people in the desert. There, they were in one of the most dangerous places imaginable—a desert without protection, without food, and without water. And yet, Hashem completely protected them, providing food, shelter, climate, and everything they could possibly need. And this is one of the reasons why Sukkot is Zman Simchateinu. There is an enormous joy that comes when a person realizes, "I don't have to be the one to hold my life together, because Hashem is holding it for me." We spend so much energy trying to create security. We wonder, what's going to be with my parnassah? What's going to happen with my child? What's going to happen with my health? What's going to be next year? And we try to build thick walls around ourselves to make sure nothing can go wrong. But then, on Sukkot, we enter the sukkah and Hashem reminds us: You don't need thicker walls; you need more emunah. The sukkah is called the Tzila D'Mehemnuta, the Shade of Emunah. We sit there and remind ourselves, "Hashem, this is where I'm the safest—not because the walls are strong, but because here I recognize that You are with me." A father once took his young son on a trip. At one point, they had to walk along a very narrow path, and the boy became frightened. His father said to him, "Hold on to me." The boy grabbed his father's jacket tightly and continued walking. A few minutes later, the path became even more difficult. The father looked down and said, "Give me your hand." The boy said, "Don't worry, Dad. I'm already holding you." His father replied, "There's a very big difference. If you're holding me and you become frightened, you might let go. But if I'm holding your hand, I'm never letting go." This is one of the messages of Sukkot. We sometimes think our security depends on how tightly we are holding on—how carefully we plan, how much money we have saved, how many connections we have, and how well prepared we are. But on Sukkot, we realize that our security does not come from how tightly we are holding on to things. It comes from knowing that Hashem is holding us. When we walk into the sukkah, we should look at the s'chach and say, "Hashem, I am in Your hands. My family is in Your hands. My parnassah is in Your hands. My health is in Your hands. My entire future is in Your hands." And there is no safer place in the world. Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom.

On our Supernatural Friday Podcast, we share one of the most amazing testimonies of salvation and deliverance we have heard.  Listen to this testimony and enter into a new hope for others.  

The Middle East continues to change rapidly.In this edition of Messianic World Update, Monty Judah examines the latest developments surrounding the war involving Iran, U.S. policy in the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, the Houthi rebels, Israel, Gaza and the upcoming United Nations General Assembly.The program also looks at questions surrounding U.S. military involvement, NATO, Iran's nuclear program, Russian intelligence support for Iran, worldwide oil and diesel supplies, and the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz.The discussion then turns to the UN General Assembly, Mahmoud Abbas, the Gaza war and a controversial film concerning Israel's military actions. The transcript presents competing claims surrounding the film and Israel's response to those allegations.Monty also discusses Israel's political landscape, the upcoming Knesset elections, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, opposition leaders and the political divisions inside Israel. The episode concludes by focusing on the approaching Yom Kippur and Feast of Tabernacles season, concerns about possible attacks, prayer for Israel and the nations, and the biblical promise of the Messiah's return and Kingdom.As the world continues to change, stay informed, stay in the Scriptures, and continue to pray.Watch, like and subscribe for more Messianic World Update programming from Lion and Lamb Ministries.The program also encourages viewers to learn more about Lion and Lamb TV, the ministry's streaming channel, and the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles gathering.Shabbat Shalom!

shabbat reading for Christians Complete Jewish Biblepage: 234Deuteronomy 32:1-52page: 722Hosea 14:2-10page: 726Joel 2:15-27page: 1507Hebrews 12:14-29page: 15151 Peter 1:1-2:25

Discover the powerful connection between the Jewish High Priest's ritual on Yom Kippur (the Day of Atonement) and the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Lebanon's future is at the center of a major diplomatic push as President Joseph Aoun meets French President Emmanuel Macron and Jordan's King Abdullah II in Paris. The talks come as Israel and Lebanon explore a possible security framework, including what could eventually replace UNIFIL in southern Lebanon.In this episode of the Israel Daily News Podcast, Shana Fuld breaks down the history behind the Israel-Lebanon conflict and explains why UNIFIL has remained in southern Lebanon for nearly 50 years.The discussion covers the origins of UNIFIL, the PLO's presence in southern Lebanon, Israel's 1978 and 1982 operations, Hezbollah's emergence, and the aftermath of the Second Lebanon War.Shana also explains the current proposal being discussed: Israeli forces could withdraw as the Lebanese military moves into southern Lebanon and Hezbollah is disarmed. But Israel says the Lebanese army must prove it can actually remove Hezbollah from the area before an Israeli withdrawal can take place.The episode also covers:

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

Complete Jewish Bible ****ROSH HASHANA**** page: 19 Genesis 21:1-22:24page: 185Numbers 29:1-6page: 2981 Samuel 1:1-2:10page: 599 Jeremiah 31: 1-19page: 14761 Thessalonians 4:13-18page:14381 Corinthians 15"50-57page: 143Revelations 11:15-19:10Lord help us to understand and trust you more.

Parashat Nitzavim-Va-yelekh [Deuteronomy 29:9-31:30] is the last of the 7 shabbatot of comfort following Tisha B'Av [the 9th of Av, commemorating the destruction of the 2 temples, among other disasters to befall the Jewish people]. The Torah reading puts forth the claim that the covenant being concluded is not just with the people in the Plains of Moab, but also those who are not there [29:14], which was the spring board for the beginning of our discussion. We then moved on to the passage 30:11-20, which contains the verse made famous by the story of the Oven of Akhnai, לא בשמים היא [lo ba-shamayyim hee, “it is not in heaven”]. This led to a discussion of teshuvah [return to God or repentance] and tahanun [the penitential prayers recited after the amidah]. Finally, we considered some verses from Va-yelekh [31:7-8] regarding the appointment of Joshua as the successor to Moshe, with the command to חזק ואמץ [hazaq ve-amatz, “be strong and resolute']. Since we will not be recording next week, when the first day of Rosh Hashanah coincides with Shabbat, I would like to take this opportunity not only to wish everyone a Shabbat Shalom but a Shanah Tovah!

Do you ever feel that a relationship in your life is struggling? How can you restore those connections? Join guest speaker Rebbetzin Candyce Hyslip of Congregation Baruch HaShem in Phoenix, Arizona, as she offers a path towards reconciliation between us and those we have had difficult relationships with by utilizing the spiritual principles Scripture lays out for us. You can become a repairer of broken walls if you pursue and accept forgiveness and show love to others. Shabbat Shalom!Isaiah 51.3-4; Malachi 3.23-24; Isaiah 58.12; Psalm 51.4Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

The Ma'amar Mordechai writes at the beginning of Parashat Nitzavim that we always read Nitzavim before Rosh Hashanah to teach us that at this time of year, we are supposed to be praying on behalf of our friends every single day. The Perach Shoshan explains a beautiful hint in the words Atem Nitzavim Hayom . The word Nitzavim means standing, and Chazal tell us that standing is a reference to tefillah. Atem Nitzavim Hayom —we're all standing together in tefillah at this special time before Rosh Hashanah. Then he quotes the Be'er Heitev, who brings down in halachah that during this month, when a person writes a letter to his friend, he should bless him that he should be inscribed and sealed for a good year. Thus, we should be praying for our friends as well. At this time, we are supposed to be giving out blessings to others, wishing good things upon them and praying that they receive them. This is a time when we need extra love and unity. We are all going to come together to proclaim Hashem the Melech, and we should do it together as one. The Baal HaTurim writes on the words Atem Nitzavim that just as the Jewish People stood together in unity at Har Sinai, so too they stood together then, and so too must we stand together now. We should be thinking about each other, caring about each other and praying on behalf of each other. And there is a great zechut when we do that. A man told me that last year, he and his friend were working together in the same company. Things there were getting worse and worse until eventually they weren't making any money. They finally decided together that they were going to leave. They had no idea where they were going to go or what they would do next, but they decided they were going to learn Shaar HaBitachon together every single day. They learned as chavrutot and grew together in bitachon and emunah. They also made up that each one would pray for the other to find a good job. After some time, someone reached out to one of the men with a job opportunity. He went for an interview and liked what he heard. While they were still going back and forth, he heard about a second opportunity. He looked into that one as well and felt it would be much better for him. The first company told him there was no urgency, and if he wanted to pursue the other opportunity, it wouldn't be a problem. He should just let them know. In the end, he was hired by the second company. That very same day, the first company called him and asked what he had decided. He told them he had just accepted another position, but then he added, "I have a friend who is also looking for a job." That friend immediately went down for an interview, and they hired him on the spot. The two friends who had left their jobs together, learned Shaar HaBitachon together and prayed for each other every single day were both hired exactly three months after leaving their previous jobs—and they were both hired on the exact same day. This is a beautiful example of what Atem Nitzavim could look like in our own lives. Two people growing together, strengthening each other and each one sincerely praying for the other's success. And then Hashem looked down upon them and answered both of their tefillot together. As Rosh Hashanah approaches, we all have so much that we need and so much that we're praying for. But we should also utilize this special time to think about what others need. We should pray for our friends, bless them and genuinely want Hashem to give them everything they need. When Hashem sees all of His children standing together with love and unity, each one wanting the best for the other, that is a great zechut. May we all wish good upon each other and pray for each other, and in that zechut, may Hashem bless everyone with a wonderful and beautiful new year. Shabbat Shalom

The official high temperature at St. Louis Lambert International Airport on September 4, 2026, was 100°F, reached at approximately 2:30 p.m.The daily record was 104°F, established in 1954, so the record was not tied.The Detroit Tornado, Category 4/5 Hurricane Lowell, & Record-Shattering Heat Description & Chapter Breakdown:Join Simcha for a high-octane, extreme-focused journey across a wild week in the atmosphere.From powerful Category 4 hurricanes to historic metropolitan tornadoes and record-tying 104°F heartland heat, we dive deep into the synoptic physics of a planet in overdrive. Chapters:00:00 - 02:15 | The Tropical Kinetic Fury: Hurricane Lowell's explosive 150 mph winds, a potential Category 5 track toward Hawaii, and the disruption of the Pacific trade winds by Hurricane Karina.02:15 - 05:30 | The Detroit Tornado Breakthrough: An in-depth meteorological analysis of the Thursday, Sept. 3rd east side touchdown—the first within Detroit city limits since 1997. We unpack the CAPE, shear, and storm-relative helicity that fueled it, plus a heroic story of survival.05:30 - 08:00 | Record Heat & Tying 1954: Tracking the oppressive late-summer heat dome across the Central U.S., including St. Louis tying its all-time daily record of 104°F.08:00 - 11:15 | The Backdoor Cold Front & Retrogradation: How a digging Eastern Canadian trough is squashing the Bermuda High and physically shoving (retrograding) the entire heat dome back over the Western Rockies.11:15 - 13:30 | Alaska's Anomalous Atmospheric River: A look at the moisture plume carrying precipitable water values a staggering plus-four standard deviations above normal, bringing inland drenchers and mountain snows over 5,500 feet.13:30 - 15:00 | Inspirational Close & Good Shabbos: Simcha reflects on the majestic grandeur of our global atmosphere and extends weekend blessings to listeners worldwide.Hashtags: #WeatherWithEnthusiasm #ExtremeWeather #DetroitTornado #HurricaneLowell #HeatWave2026 #Meteorology #ShabbatShalom

Welcome to Daily Bitachon. This is our final Shabbat before Rosh Hashanah. Over the past year, we have frequently discussed the profound importance of honoring Shabbat—especially leading into a year where Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, when Shabbat serves as our primary defense advocate in the heavenly court. This is our crucial opportunity to give our ultimate honor and respect to Shabbat. The Ben Ish Chai ( Parashat Pekudei , Year 2) comments on the placement of the Menorah opposite the Shulchan (the Table of the Showbread) in the Mishkan. The Menorah consists of a central shaft from which three branches extend on either side. He explains that the central shaft symbolizes Shabbat. Naturally, one might assume that if the seven branches correspond to the seven days of the week, you would count linearly from right to left: Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday on the right, making Wednesday the middle branch. The Ben Ish Chai explains that this is a mistake. The core of the Menorah is the center, which is Shabbat. The three branches on one side represent the three days leading into Shabbat—Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday—while the three branches on the other side represent the days extending outward from Shabbat—Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Shabbat stands squarely in the center. This principle is rooted in the Gemara ( Pesachim 106a) regarding legal documents: Kamei shabta ("before Shabbat") refers to Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Lebatar shabta ("after Shabbat") refers to Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. This dynamic directly informs practical Halacha: Havdalah: While ideally recited on Motza'ei Shabbat , one may technically recite Havdalah until Tuesday afternoon (provided one has not eaten beforehand), because Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are a direct continuation of the preceding Shabbat. Embarking on a Ship: The prohibition against embarking on a sea voyage within three days of Shabbat begins on Wednesday, as Wednesday marks the start of the days designated as "before Shabbat." Shnayim Mikra Ve-Echad Targum: Ideally, the review of the weekly Torah portion should be completed on Shabbat before Kiddush or Mincha. The next acceptable window extends until the following Wednesday, before the preparation for the next Shabbat begins. Both the Ben Ish Chai and the Shlah HaKadosh ( Parashat Pekudei ) explain that the Neshamah Yeteirah (the extra soul granted on Shabbat) arrives and departs in three distinct spiritual stages: Nefesh , Ruach , and Neshamah . On Wednesday , we begin receiving the Nefesh (the baseline vitality, connected to physical action and the liver). On Thursday , we receive the Ruach (the emotional dimension, connected to the heart). On Friday , we receive the Neshamah (the intellectual and spiritual height, connected to the mind). Following Shabbat, this extra spiritual energy gradually departs in reverse over Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. We live in a perpetual cycle of either preparing for Shabbat or carrying forward its residual light. This concept is reflected in the Friday night piyyut composed by the Arizal, Asader Lishvachin : "Yemina u-smala u-veinayhu khallah" —to the right and to the left, and between them walks the Bride. Just as a bride is escorted down the aisle with her parents on either side, the Shabbat Queen is flanked by the days of the week on both sides. The Source of All Blessing Shabbat is Mekor HaBeracha —the source of all sustenance, success, and prosperity. When we enter Shabbat, we invoke the three foundational categories of agricultural and economic blessing mentioned in the Torah ( Devarim 11:14): Dagan (Grain) Tirosh (Wine) Yitzhar (Oil) Just as the miracle of the oil with the prophet Elisha required a small vessel of oil to initiate the flow of blessing, spiritual abundance requires an earthly anchor. On Shabbat, we establish vessels for all three categories: We light the candles ( Oil / Yitzhar ) We sanctify the day through Kiddush ( Wine / Tirosh ) We break bread over the challah ( Grain / Dagan ) By engaging these elements, we channel divine blessing into every area of our livelihood. This is why many have the custom to position the Shabbat table in clear view of the candles. While standing for Kiddush with the cup of wine in hand, one looks at the candles, with the challah resting on the table—bringing all three components into harmony. As the verse states in Mishlei (10:22): "Birkat Hashem hi ta'ashir" —the blessing of Hashem brings wealth. That blessing refers directly to Shabbat, which is blessed above all other days ( u-verakhto mi-kol ha-yamim ). The Ben Ish Chai adds another insight regarding the Kos shel Beracha (the cup of blessing). A human hand possesses 14 knuckles/joints across the five fingers (three in each of the four fingers, and two in the thumb). The word for hand, Yad ( יד ), has the numerical value of 14. This corresponds to the standard 14 meals eaten during the seven weekdays (two meals per day). Shabbat introduces the 15th meal— Seudah Shelishit . The number 15 represents the fullness of divine blessing, matching the 15 words of Birkat Kohanim (the Priestly Blessing). When holding the Kos shel Beracha in the palm of the hand, the hand acts as the complete 15-part vessel to receive and contain the blessing flowing from Shabbat. Honoring Shabbat Before Rosh Hashanah As we have emphasized, spiritual and physical channels only function when they are treated with honor: If you respect your clothing, it will keep you warm. If you respect a Talmid Chacham , you benefit from his merit. If you respect Shabbat, the blessings of Shabbat will sustain and elevate you. Failing to honor Shabbat blocks the flow of blessing not out of punitive anger, but as a spiritual reality. The prophet Yeshayahu (58:13) instructs: "Ve-chibadeto me'asot derachecha... ve-kadosh Hashem mechubad" —you shall honor it by refraining from your everyday pursuits. As we enter the final Shabbat of the year, make a conscious commitment to elevate your Kavod Shabbat (honor of Shabbat). Now is the moment to reflect, repair any past lapses, and resolve to honor Shabbat with greater care and dignity. When Rosh Hashanah arrives, Shabbat will stand as an advocate of peace and merit on our behalf. Shabbat Shalom. May we all internalize the honor of Shabbat, tap into the wellspring of all blessings, and merit the fulfillment of the prayer: Tachel shana u-virchoteha —may the new year and its abundant blessings begin!

Why is believing that Yeshua is the Messiah a Jewish belief? Does G-d have a plan for His people? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he spotlights the importance of knowing the context of Scripture and for Jewish believers to maintain our identities as G-d called us to be witnesses to the truth of His Word. We must understand the context of Scripture to more deeply seek its meaning and better stand up for the Jewish people. Shabbat Shalom!Romans 9.4-5; Jeremiah 31.30-32; Romans 11.28-29; Isaiah 49.14-16; Luke 4.16; Acts 17.1-2; Matthew 1.21; 1 Corinthians 9.20-22Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Parashat Ki Tetze [Deuteronomy 21:9-25:19 is, to use a phrase that Eliot likes to use, the most mitzvah dense parashah, meaning there are more mitzvot in this parashah, over 70 of the 613, than in any other. That astounding fact raises some intriguing questions, the first one perhaps being why? Why this parashah? Do we say to ourselves when we get here, this is really what the Torah is about? This was the foundation of our conversation. Along the way, we happened to discuss some of the laws! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parashat Ki Tavo [Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8] features one of my favorite Torah passages, the ritual of the bringing of the first fruits. The Israelite farmer is instructed to bring his first fruits to the kohen [priest] and recite a sacred history, recounting how his ancestor was a wandering Aramean who descended to Egypt few in number, became a great and numerous nation, was treated badly, enslaved, and oppressed until God heard his outcry and saw his affliction and rescued him with signs and wonders and led him to the Promised Land. And now having settled on the land the farmer brings his first fruits as a sign of God's redemptive power and as a fulfillment of the divine promise. The rabbis take this passage and make it the heart of the Passover seder in the wake of the destruction of the Temple. Redemption no longer takes place in the Land in historical time; it takes place through the telling of the story at a meal infused with symbolic meaning. Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

Click this link for the new Living Emunah from Artscroll on Tefillah https://www.artscroll.com/ Books/lemtfh.html This week's parasha opens up with the words, "כי תצא למלחמה על אויבך – when you go out to war against your enemy." The Zohar HaKadosh writes that אויבך-your enemy is referring to the יצר הרע – our evil inclination which means the Torah is calling our struggle with the evil inclination a war. Sometimes people get down on themselves because they always have to struggle to do anything proper in religion. "Nothing is ever easy," they say, and they feel like that means that Hashem doesn't want their service. Others get down because they feel that they are so evil. "Why can't we be happy for other people's good fortune?" They think to themselves, or, "Why is it so hard for us to forgive people?" We must internalize the fact that everybody is created with an evil inclination and it is that inclination which enables us to bring glory to Hashem. The Mabit writes there would be no kavod (glory) to Hashem if we only had our pure neshama that wants to do good all the time. All of the glory comes when we subdue that evil inclination and serve Hashem despite the pull the other way. We should not feel down when we have inclinations towards evil. We should feel excited at our opportunity to bring glory to Hashem by overcoming them. The sefer Nafshi Cholat Ahavatcha uses this Mabit to give us chizuk when it comes to praying. Many times the yetzer hara gets us to not pay attention to what we're saying when we're praying. And even when we try hard and extra hard to focus our minds, our minds still manage to somehow wander and we become frustrated. The natural tendency of a person in that situation would be to just stop trying and say to himself, "It's not helping anyway so why should I bother?" And even if a person does manage to want to make an attempt after he failed, the yetzer hara tells him, "Now you're going to start concentrating? You already messed up most of the prayer. Of what value is it now to have kavana for just one paragraph?" We must think to ourselves, it's exactly the opposite. Because it has been so difficult to concentrate, that is precisely why every word that we do concentrate upon afterward is so precious. That is what brings all the glory to Hashem. Hashem has so much satisfaction when we battle this inclination and then we overcome it. There is no glory in a computer being able to know the meaning of the words, because that's what it's programmed to do. But for a person who has so many thoughts flying through his mind and still manages to focus on some of the words he's praying to Hashem, that is extremely valuable. We should never underestimate the value of concentrating on even one word of the tefila. As the Chovot HaLevavot says, what might seem to be small in our eyes is very big in the eyes of Hashem. For someone who is jealous of his friend's successes and he cries to Hashem for help because he wants to improve in his middot and he works on himself and he reads sefarim that help him with those middot and finally after months, or even years, he is able to be happy for another person, that is where all the glory is because he did battle and he overcame that terrible, evil inclination. If someone feels his inclinations are so evil, and he says to himself, "I'm such a bad person," he is not understanding it properly. It just means he has a greater opportunity to serve Hashem by overcoming it. We are in constant battle with this yetzer hara, but that's the will of Hashem for us, to go to war against it, to do our best to overcome it and if we're fighting hard, we'll merit the continuation of the pasuk, "ונתנו ה' אלוקיך בידך – Hashem will help us beat him." Don't get down, don't feel bad when you have those inclinations. Fight them. Do your best. Every victory is so precious and brings such glory to Hashem. Shabbat Shalom.

Do you often hear from G-d? How do you prepare for Rosh Hashanah? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he harkens us to take more time and intention to listen and give an opportunity to G-d to let us know His thoughts so that we can be well-nourished in our walks with G-d and in life. The month of Elul is one we need to stop and listen in, as the King is in the field. Shabbat Shalom!Deuteronomy 6.4; 1 Kings 19.11-13; John 10.27; Deuteronomy 30.10; Psalm 27.4; James 1.19Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

This episode features the final interview with worship leader Brian Doerksen, reflecting on his decades of songwriting, the importance of cultural rootedness, and his approach of "writing into the gap." He discusses projects like Royal Anthems and his new album "Love for a Lifetime," written to celebrate and sustain long-term love. Brian shares candid wisdom for couples facing challenges—recommitment, practical habits like weekly dates, and finding grace in the cracks of life—and leaves a lasting testimony about music, faith, and legacy.

Parashat Shoftim [16:18-21:9] is another rich parashah in Sefer D'varim [Book of Deuteronomy]. Jeffrey Tigay divides into two major sections: Civil and Religious Authorities [16:18-18:22] and Judicial and Military Matters [19:1-21:9]. Our conversation also divided into two parts: a discussion of 16:20, with its key phrase צדק צדק תרדוף [tzedeq tzedeq tirdof; Justice, justice you shall pursue] and some laws of warfare. We recorded on the eve of the first day of Rosh Hodesh Elul. Tomorrow night we begin reciting Psalm 27 in evening and morning prayer services, formally ushering in the High Holy Day Season. Shabbat Shalom!

Welcome to Shabbat Dinner Party, an auditory exploration through a Shabbat dinner. In this episode, we meet resident Shabbat expert Neil Spears, Gefilteria's Jeffrey Yoskowitz and Liz Alpern, and comedian Mike Liebenson.  Resources: Mike Liebenson's comedy on Instagram Learn more about The Gefilteria  Listen to Liz and Jeffrey's podcast, Meet Me At The Deli  Learn more about Judaism Unbound  Shabbat Dinner Party is a production of Judaism Unbound. Senior Producer is Joey Taylor, and Executive Director is Miriam Terlinchamp. This episode was mixed by Justin Newton. Send us your comments, recipes, and Shabbat thoughts: mishkin@judaismunbound.com

Spouting Off with Karen Kataline Mob Movies, Media Narratives, COVID Grievances, Iran, and the Politics of Cultural Memory Karen Kataline joins Vic Porcelli, with Ken Williams appearing in a later segment, for a wide-ranging conversation about The Sopranos, Tulsa King, mafia films, Billy Joel, Charlottesville, Jewish identity, Shabbat, World War II memory, Dr. Anthony Fauci, COVID-era grievances, Iran, President Trump's strategy, political hypocrisy, and the vigilante film Miss Meadows. Guest Spotlight: Vic Porcelli Vic Porcelli leads the interview segment with Karen Kataline, moving freely between entertainment, politics, religion, history, and current events. The transcript also includes a later excerpt in which Ken Williams joins the discussion, suggesting that the source combines material from more than one Vic-and-Karen radio segment. The Sopranos, Vincent Pastore, and Mafia Culture The conversation opens with humor about Italian identity, The Sopranos, and Vincent Pastore's character Salvatore “Big Pussy” Bonpensiero. Vic and Karen discuss Pastore's final scene, his appearances in other productions, and the appeal of actors who became closely associated with mob roles. They also mention Tony Sirico, Goodfellas, the 1996 HBO film Gotti, and a Pepsi commercial in which Pastore plays a mafia-style character. Tulsa King, Blue Bloods, and Steve Schirripa Karen and Vic compare their reactions to Tulsa King, agreeing that the series began strongly but became stranger as it continued. They then discuss Steve Schirripa's work in both The Sopranos and Blue Bloods, along with Tom Selleck and Magnum, P.I. Vic shares stories from a “Dinner with The Sopranos” promotion featuring Schirripa, Federico Castelluccio, and John Ventimiglia, including a humorous “Godfather test” before an interview. Violent Films, John Wick, and Personal Viewing Limits The pair reflect on why mob movies can be entertaining even for people who dislike graphic violence. Karen says she avoids certain violent films, especially before sleep, while Vic jokes that John Wick is treated as a love story by some viewers. Their exchange highlights the difference between enjoying stylized crime stories and wanting to limit exposure to disturbing material. Billy Joel, Charlottesville, and Competing Political Narratives The discussion shifts to Billy Joel, his father's story, Jewish identity, and Joel's public criticism of Donald Trump. Karen argues that the commonly repeated interpretation of Trump's Charlottesville remarks was a political hoax and says the Southern Poverty Law Center helped reinforce a false narrative. Vic likewise criticizes Joel for accepting that interpretation. These are the speakers' political claims and opinions and are not independently verified in the transcript. Shabbat, Jewish Tradition, and World War II Memory Vic asks Karen about “Shabbat Shalom,” and she explains the Jewish Sabbath as beginning Friday at sundown and ending after dark on Saturday. She describes the Sabbath as historically rooted in Saturday observance and calls Vic a “righteous Gentile” because of his support for Jewish people. Vic then recounts his father's World War II service and possible involvement in liberating a concentration camp, prompting Karen to compare his silence about wartime trauma with the reluctance of many veterans to discuss what they witnessed. Dr. Fauci, COVID, and Karen Kataline's Airline Experience Karen strongly condemns Dr. Anthony Fauci and describes the COVID period as a deliberate worldwide deception. She recounts being removed from an American Airlines flight, saying it was not simply about masking but about her emotional reaction and attitude toward what was happening. She connects propaganda, public coercion, and unwillingness to question authority with broader historical lessons, including how populations can be manipulated. These are her personal experiences and political interpretations. Iran, President Trump, and Strategic Retaliation In a later segment with Vic and Ken Williams, Karen discusses attacks involving Iran and supports retaliatory action. The speakers portray President Trump as pursuing a deliberate waiting strategy against a regime they consider untrustworthy and dangerous. A short Trump audio clip states that attacks will be answered more forcefully. Karen says she hopes the larger goal is to remove the Iranian regime and free the Iranian people, while acknowledging that the true strategy cannot be openly revealed. Political Hypocrisy and Nazi Comparisons The conversation then turns to accusations involving Nazi imagery and political double standards. Karen argues that some people loosely call political opponents Nazis while minimizing actual extremist symbols when those symbols appear on someone they support. The speakers frame this as an example of partisan inconsistency and selective outrage. Miss Meadows and the Citizen Vigilante The final topic is the film Miss Meadows, starring Katie Holmes as a prim, cheerful schoolteacher who is also a vigilante. Karen interprets the character's phone conversations and tap dancing as self-soothing responses to childhood trauma rather than hallucinations. She praises the contrast between the character's polite appearance and violent actions, while Vic suggests continuing the broader discussion of citizen vigilantes in a future segment.

How do you see G-d through distractions? Is your faith like a checklist? Join guest speaker Ben Mendelsohn of Jews for Jesus as he spotlights the importance of the way our relationship with G-d is structured- as one that first establishes grace and mercy, while our acts to follow Him are the result. Faith was never meant to be a competition or chore, and once we embrace His love, we can experience true peace and joy. Shabbat Shalom!Habakkuk 2.4; Romans 1.17; Galatians 3.11; Hebrews 10.38; Romans 14.17; Isaiah 55.8; Isaiah 55.12; Mark 10.21; Luke 22.61; Acts 7.56Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

The actual reading should have been August 8th 2026Complete Jewish Bible ( we inadvertently repeated last weeks pharasha and then tried to save it the best we could.)page: 210 is the correct one for this week Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17page: 523Isaiah 54:11-55:5page: 14291 Corinthians 8:1-13Thank you God, please have mercy on us!

Dr. Francis Miles shares a powerful testimony of how his staunchly Catholic father heard an audible voice while praying the rosary, calling him by name and saying, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." That encounter led the father to seek his son, receive salvation, and bring the whole family to faith. This episode encourages listeners not to give up on loved ones, highlighting God's supernatural ways and the importance of praying for the salvation of family members.

Parashat Re'eh [Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17] is filled with interesting material, including the centralization of the cult in the Temple in Jerusalem, false prophets, dietary laws, the sabbatical year, and a holiday calendar. In our conversation this week we focused on simhah [joy], and how to understand the commandment to rejoice. We hope you are happy with it! Shabbat Shalom!!

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

Complete Jewish Bible reading at home with us 8-1-26page: 206 Deuteronomy 7:12-11:25page: 515Isaiah 49:14-51:3page: 1506Hebrews 12:1-29be regular do this all the time do not be stiffnecked like your ancestors were back in the day and many are like that today they do not want to know Gods instructions.

Marty Derricotte recounts his first clear experience of God's voice during a couples' retreat, where a vision of snow and family members led him to confess past sins and forgive others. The episode follows how this supernatural moment brought reconciliation, forgiveness, and ultimately the salvation of his parents.

Complete Jewish Bible reading 7-25-26page: 216 Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9page: 519Isaiah 51:12-52:12page: 1245Matthew 18:1-35thanks be to God for opening the way for us!

This episode shares the testimony of Yisrael, an Orthodox Israeli who, after traumatic war experiences and travels abroad, meets believers in South Africa, studies the Hebrew New Testament, confronts rabbinic answers, and prays to know if Yeshua is the Messiah—leading to a life-changing spiritual encounter and new faith. We release the power of testimony and encourage you to speak with eternal perspective. 

Parashat Va-et'hanan [Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11] features the Ten Commandments and the 1st paragraph of the Shema, to which we customarily refer as the Shema and Ve-ahavta. There are also a number of p'suqim [verses] which made their way into the liturgy. And there is still more. For example, the discerning reader/listener will note that part of the reading will seem familiar, due to the fact that it is the Tisha B'Av morning reading. Off hand, I believe this is the only time a Shabbat Torah Reading includes a Torah Reading for a special occasion earlier in the week. Despite the richness of the parashah, we spent most of our time talking about Tisha B'Av, the Jewish national day of mourning, since we recorded Thursday afternoon. Near the end we worked in the parashah, discussing Moses' final plea to God to be allowed to enter the Promised Land. With Tisha B'Av now behind us, we look forward to Shabbat Nahamu [haftarah from Isaiah 40:1-26, which has its own riches]. We have progressed another major step toward the High Holidays, little more than seven weeks away. Shabbat Shalom! Please note that we will not be recording next week. Our next scheduled Parashah Talk is for Re'eh, the week of August 8th. Stay tuned!

Do you struggle to let go of grudges? Have you had to deal with trauma? Join guest speaker Rabbi Matt Rosenberg of Restoration Seattle in Washington as he reflects upon the release Joseph had from any need for revenge or bitterness and how we too can be free of those burdens and pains, because G-d can lift it all from us. We are called to overcome evil with good and release records of wrongs, especially when it is beyond what makes sense to the eyes of man. Shabbat Shalom!Genesis 50.15-21; Leviticus 19.16-18; Romans 12.17-21; Genesis 50.24-25 Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

On our Supernatural Friday episode, we featured a young lady who died on the operating table for nine minutes and says she was taken to heaven. She recounts encountering overwhelming light and love, seeing her younger self, and experiencing forgiveness and freedom from guilt and shame. The episode explores her emotional and spiritual transformation, the power of God's love to cover past hurts and sins, and encourages listeners that healing and restoration are possible through faith.

Monte Judah examines the rapidly escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, Israel's military strategy, growing political opposition to Israel in America, and what these developments may mean through the lens of biblical prophecy. Join us for this week's Messianic World Update from Lion and Lamb Ministries.Uscreen Timestamps (29:18 Runtime)00:00 Introduction 00:40 U.S. Military Operations Against Iran 02:28 Iran's Negotiating Tactics 05:18 Strait of Hormuz Strategy 08:17 Iran's Underground Nuclear Facilities 10:04 Houthis & Red Sea Threats 11:35 Military Campaign Expands 13:31 Israel's Current Role 16:10 U.S.–Israel Defense Partnership 18:37 Lebanon Security Update 20:12 Gaza & Hamas Operations 21:50 American Politics & Israel 24:08 Media Coverage and Prophecy Perspective 26:42 Looking Ahead 28:08 Closing RemarksContinue growing in your faith throughout the week with LionandLamb.tv, your home for biblical teaching from a Messianic perspective. Watch weekly programs featuring Monte Judah and special guests as we explore Bible prophecy, the Hebraic roots of the faith, current events, and practical discipleship.Looking to go deeper?• The Greater Exodus — Learn more about God's prophetic plan: https://thegreaterexodus.com/• Monte Judah Teaching Collection — Books, studies, and teaching series: https://www.messianicmarketplace.org/collections/monte-judah• Lion and Lamb Ministries — Discover our ministry, events, and free resources: https://www.lionandlambministries.org/• Messianic Marketplace — Browse books, Bible studies, gifts, and educational resources: https://www.messianicmarketplace.org/• Yavoh Magazine — Subscribe to our free monthly Messianic magazine, available in digital or print: https://www.yavohmagazine.com/As these prophetic days continue to unfold, your partnership helps us proclaim the Gospel of Messiah, teach the whole counsel of God, and equip believers around the world.Support Lion and Lamb Ministries today at: www.LLGive.comThank you for standing with us as we proclaim God's Word, support Israel, and prepare believers for the return of our Messiah.Shabbat Shalom!

Shabbat Weekly Reflection

We spend a lot of time making different calculations. We think about what's going to bring us the greatest benefit, what's going to produce the best outcome, and what will help us accomplish the most. That's a good approach when it comes to our physical lives, but when it comes to avodat Hashem, there is a different rule. Our job is not to calculate what we think will accomplish the most. It is to do exactly what Hashem asks us to do and trust that His calculations are infinitely greater than ours. Rabbi Eliyahu Lopian brings out this lesson very clearly in the first of this week's two parashiyot. In Parashat Matot, Hashem tells Moshe Rabbeinu to go to war against Midyan, and immediately afterward he would leave this world. Rashi, quoting the Midrash, points out the greatness of Moshe Rabbeinu. Even though he knew that fulfilling this command would bring about his own death, he did not hesitate for a moment. He fulfilled Hashem's command with joy and without delay. Rabbi Lopian notes that we find what appears to be a different approach by Yehoshua bin Nun. Hashem also commanded Yehoshua to wage war and conquer Eretz Yisrael, and after that mission was complete, his life would come to an end. Chazal tell us that Yehoshua delayed the war, and as a result, he lost ten years of his life. Rabbi Lopian explains that Yehoshua had the best of intentions. He knew Moshe Rabbeinu's prophecy that after Moshe died, the Jewish people would eventually stray from the proper path. Yehoshua understood that as long as he remained alive, it was considered as if Moshe was still alive, because Chazal teach that as long as a student lives, it is as if his rebbe is still living. Indeed, the Jewish people remained loyal to Hashem throughout Yehoshua's lifetime, and only after he died did they begin serving avodah zarah. Yehoshua therefore made a calculation. If he delayed the war, he would live longer, and Klal Yisrael would remain on the proper path for a longer period of time. It seemed like a wonderful calculation. Moshe Rabbeinu could have made the very same calculation. He could have thought, "If I delay the war against Midyan and remain alive longer, I'll continue leading the Jewish people, and they too will remain on the proper path." But Moshe Rabbeinu did not make calculations. Hashem told him to do something, and he did it immediately. In the end, Yehoshua's calculation accomplished just the opposite of what he intended. Instead of gaining years, he lost ten years of his life, and consequently, the Jewish people strayed from the proper path earlier than they would have had he fulfilled Hashem's command immediately. Moshe Rabbeinu, on the other hand, only gained. Because he fulfilled Hashem's command without delay, the prophecy that the Jewish people would stray from the path was postponed until after Yehoshua's passing. Hashem fulfilled the prophetic words אחרי מותי כי השחת תשחיתון to mean not only after Moshe's death, but after the death of his faithful student as well. By trusting Hashem, Moshe accomplished far more than he ever could have by making his own calculations. Very often we also make calculations when it comes to Torah and mitzvot. We say, "I know I should give tzedakah, but first I want to become more financially secure." "I know I should spend more time learning Torah, but right now I need to build my career." "I know I should do this mitzvah, but maybe if I wait a little longer, it will work out better." Our job is not to calculate how Hashem's commands will produce the best results. Our job is to do what Hashem wants now. Hashem, Who sees the past, present, and future all at once, has already made every calculation. Living with emunah means recognizing that Hashem's calculations are infinitely greater than ours. If we do our job by fulfilling His will with joy and without delay, trusting that we only gain by listening to Him, then we will fulfill our mission in this world properly. Shabbat Shalom

A dramatic testimony of a Hindu man who experienced a vision of a bottomless pit and, crying out to Jesus, was miraculously pulled into the light, forgiven, and transformed. After his conversion he faced rejection at home but received a new heart and calling, becoming a minister; this episode offers hope and encouragement through the power of God and Scripture.

The Midrash at the beginning of this week's parasha Pinchas says, אמר הקב"ה בדין הוא שיקבל שכרו – Hashem said that Pinchas deserved the reward he was getting for the act he performed. The mefarshim ask the question, doesn't everybody who does a mitzvah deserve the reward that comes as a result of performing it? Why is the Midrash singling out Pinchas, saying that he deserved his reward? The sefer Vaveh HaAmudim quoted an answer given by the sefer Zichron Yitzchak - even though everyone who does a mitzvah deserves reward for it, most of the time, there is some type of praise or honor that the person gets as a result of the performance of that mitzvah which takes away some of the reward. Receiving praises from others or being acknowledged for a deed reduces the full amount of the reward of that mitzvah. Hashem may still give the person the reward but it is no longer called "fully deserved". Pinchas however did not only not receive praises for his actions, he was even ridiculed for them. Therefore, he can be called deserved of the reward that he was getting. On one occasion, somebody from Rav Shach's family saw the Rosh Yeshiva with tears in his eyes. At that time, he was very old. The family member asked the Rosh Yeshiva what was wrong and if he could offer his assistance. Rav Shach replied he was thinking about what he was going to bring with him to the Heavenly Court after he leaves this world. The family member then pointed to the sefer Avi Ezri that was open on the table, a four volume masterpiece written by Rav Shach as a commentary of the Mishneh Torah of the Rambam which is used in every yeshiva throughout the entire world. Rav Shach replied, "Yes, it is a good sefer , but I got too much recognition from it. It's value has been diminished." A relative of the Chofetz Chaim once came to the Rabbi to ask him if he should travel to America to help collect money for a yeshiva that was struggling financially. The Chofetz Chaim told him he should go and he even gave him a beracha for success. The day the relative was leaving, he came back to the Chofetz Chaim to get a departing beracha . The Chofetz Chiam gave him the beracha and then told him, "Hashem gave us a Torah with 613 mitzvot in it. Due to our sins, we lost the Beit HaMikdash and according to my calculation, there are only 271 mitzvot left that we can perform nowadays - 77 positive commandments and 184 negative commandments. I felt that it was my obligation to clarify these 271 mitzvot for Klal Yisrael and therefore, I just wrote a sefer explaining each one of them. I want this sefer to have success. I want it to be completely leshem Shamayim . I need somebody to sponsor it, but I have three conditions: #1 – his name should not appear on the sefer , #2 – he himself should ask that his name doesn't appear on the sefer , and #3 – only one person should give the entire sum. Please try to find someone during your travels abroad." The man traveled by boat to America. After a few weeks, he arrived in New York but developed a very strong cough there and a doctor advised him to spend some time in a warmer climate in Florida. When the man arrived in Florida on Thursday, he had no idea where he was going to stay. To his surprise, there was a religious Jew waiting on the platform there. He introduced himself as Yerachmiel, saying he stands there every Thursday warning Jews who arrive not to go to certain "kosher" hotels and shuls that were not really reliable and were run by the wrong people. Rav Yerachmiel invited him for Shabbat and he enjoyed it very much. After Shabbat, he asked Yerachmiel about the yeshiva he was collecting for, as well as the new sefer being put out by the Chofetz Chaim. But he forgot the conditions that the Chofetz Chaim gave him. Yerachmiel said he would love to sponsor the sefer , but on 2 conditions: #1 – he would be the only sponsor, and #2 – his name wouldn't be on the sefer . The man then realized this was min haShamayim , the same conditions the Chofetz Chaim asked for were offered by this man. Decades later, after the Chofetz Chaim had already left this world and Rav Yerachmiel had married off all his children, Rav Yerachmiel's entire family moved to Israel. One day, his son-in-law, who was at that time a big talmid chacham , was walking in Bnei Brak and that relative of the Chofetz Chaim saw him and recognized him. He called him over and said, years before this, his father-in-law sponsored the Sefer HaMitzvot of the Chofetz Chaim. The talmid chacham had no clue that his father-in-law did that. When he told his father-in-law about it, Rav Yerachmiel turned pale and started crying out loud. He said, "I can't believe this was told to you. I gave a lot of tzedaka in my lifetime, but I got so much honor from it. There was one thing that I felt consoled by – sponsoring this sefer that nobody knew about, just me and Hashem and one other person. Now, what am I going to come with to Olam Haba ?" Mitzvot are great, but when we do them without any recognition, they become infinitely greater. Shabbat Shalom.

In this third and final installment in Parshat Pinchas we find out the process of appointing Yehoshua the new leader and learn all about Karbon Talmid and the many Karbanot of the holidays and Rosh Chodesh. Enjoy and Shabbat Shalom!

Do you keep up with the news around the world? Does the pressure you feel from life ever become difficult to bear? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he urges us to seek G-d when battling the intense and typically unfair ways the adversary and the world try to drag us down. When you turn towards G-d and seek His path, you can not only survive, but thrive and grow through any attack or trial comes your way. Shabbat Shalom!John 16.33; John 10.10; Isaiah 5.20; Isaiah 59.19 (KJV); 1 John 4.4; Romans 8.38-39Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Michelle Steele recounts her descent into cocaine addiction, a near-death encounter where she found herself in hell, and the miraculous intervention that led her to accept Jesus and be set free. This episode offers a powerful message of hope and restoration for anyone trapped by addiction or despair, showing how faith can bring new life.

In this week's parasha , Korach staged a rebellion against Moshe and Aharon, telling them that they took all the good positions in Klal Yisrael for themselves. Chazal tell us, Korach's actions were motivated by jealousy. He saw others around him being promoted to different positions and he didn't get any of them for himself. He convinced himself, and others, that his motives were purely l'shem Shamayim , but deep down it was all about his own honor. Sometimes, people feel bad about their positions in life. They look around at others and see that this person is the president of a shul and that person is the president of a school, this one runs his own business, that one heads his own chesed organization, and the list goes on. A person may feel, what am I worth? I don't do anything big. Nobody knows about me, I'm just an average, regular guy . If that person would instead think, it's okay, I don't need honor or recognition. I don't need to be famous. Then, his job would become very valuable – working on his middot and becoming humble is an extremely precious avodah . But, if his position leads him to feel worthless and all he does is crave honor and is jealous of everyone around him, then his misery will know no end and he will be seriously lacking in his avodat Hashem. What is the attitude he should have? The Dubno Maggid explained with a mashal . There was once a king who gave his slaves different fields of his to work on. To one of his slaves, he gave many fields to plow and to seed, etc. The other slave only got one field to work on. That slave went to the king to complain. He said, "Why do I only get one field while the other slave got so many?" The king replied, "What difference does it make to you how many fields you work on? Are they your fields? Less fields means less work. You both belong to me. You're complaining that you don't have to work as hard as your friend? Must be you're planning on taking things from the fields for yourself so you want more so you could steal more." This, says the Dubno Maggid, is what Moshe told Korach: If your motive in getting positions is to serve Hashem then it wouldn't bother you what you got. What difference would it make to you if that's what Hashem wants from you? Must be you want the position for yourself so you could take honor. This is what we have to internalize. People may feel inferior for not having lofty positions like others they know, but if they could internalize that we are all working for the same boss – He is the One who gives out positions like it says, והמתנשא לכל ראש. What difference does it make what position we get? If we are doing what our Master wants, we'll be considered a perfect worker. If anything, it's just the opposite: The less honor we get the more real our service is to Hashem. Everybody has a special job to do, to serve Hashem to the best of his ability in the circumstances Hashem puts him in. If he does his job with joy and humility, then he'll be rewarded the same as anyone else who did his job, whatever Hashem wanted that person to do. The job doesn't matter as much as doing whatever we are asked of correctly. Shabbat Shalom.