Podcasts about shem tov

Water in The Rock, or The Rock in the Water? This newletter is lengthy, so let it serve for two Shabbats. There will be no newsletter next week due to visiting Jacob's Tent services Up to the Mountain. In the last several newsletters, we've taken a close look at the many prophecies embodied in Yeshua's walk on the water of the Galilee in Matthew Fourteen. How different was Yeshua's perception of the walk than Peter and the other disciples'! For the one who was the water in the Rock…and the Rock…in the wilderness for the Israelites, it was no problem to also be the Rock in the water to his students. “He alone spreads out the heavens and treads on the waves of the sea…” (Job 9:8) Sometimes it helps to put the Gospel of Matthew back into its original Hebrew text. While no one is certain of where that text might be (only fragments are known to survive), there is a version whose provenance can only be traced so far back in Jewish history, yet it is quite accurate considering it was used by a less-than-friendly readership. It is the Shem Tov's Evan Bohan version from the Fourteenth Century. The differences between the Hebrew and Greek texts are not drastic. To Yeshua, the stroll on the Galilee during the storm was perceived much differently than his students, who perceived it as dangerous, chaotic, and "contrary." In the Hebrew Matthew version, the word for contrary is neged, or opposing, opposite. Neged has a good side, too, for Adam's wife Chavah was his ezer kenegdo, or “helper opposite him,” which brings balance. When opposition is a helper, it is because in spite of the opposition, the overall purpose is to achieve unity walking in the Word. The opposite helper pulls the weight of the yoke beside the other, ensuring the burden does not get dragged in endless circles, but can go straight. For example, grace and truth are not opposed to one another. One cannot be practiced at the expense of the other. In Yeshua, they work together. Sarah wasn't such a good helper when she suggested Hagar as a solution to their problem, but she was a good helper when she advised Abraham to send away Ishmael, who had not internalized the righteousness of his father and threatened the inheritance of Isaac. The disciples did not see the waves of the storm as their ezer kenegdo, or helping opposition, but as a destructive force. They were just rowing in circles in the middle of the Galilee, taking on water. Galilee does indeed imply circles in Hebrew, like a roll or spool, and a wave is a gal, pronounced gahl (not to be confused with other gals). This is perhaps what it has in common with the “circle of the earth,” and why from Isaiah's prophecy, Galilee came to be called “Galilee of the Nations.” In Jewish tradition, Moses hid the Rock that followed them in the wilderness in the bottom of the Galilee before he died, which explains why Yeshua would have made his early home near the Galilee and begun his ministry there. The Rock was both the water in the Rock, the Rock, and the Rock in the water. It also explains how Yeshua's ministry prepared the way for the nations to hear the Gospel message from his disciples: “But there will be no more gloom for her who was in anguish; in earlier times He treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt, but later on He shall make it glorious, by the way of the sea, on the other side of Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles. The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them.” (Is 9:1-2) As the region of the Galilee represented the Gentile nations in the time from Isaiah to Yeshua's ministry, so the disciples were dispersed to proclaim the Light of the Word Yeshua to the scattered of Israel as well as the Gentiles who dwelled among the raging waves of tormenting wickedness. Even as we are rescued, we are tested of the Ruach HaKodesh, the Holy Spirit,

Welcome to the Jew and Gentile Podcast.   Text the Jew and Gentile your comments, questions, concerns (OY!), and news at: 424-444-1948   Donate today:    MUG-ON-A-MUG With your gift of $10 or more to FOI Equip, you to can have your very own Mug-on-a-Mug. Your generous donation helps to expand the important work of teaching the Bible from a Jewish perspective while raising up new FOI volunteers and representatives serving Jewish communities all around the world.   Visit gofoi.org/mug to make your gift today and receive your own Jew and Gentile Podcast Mug-on-a-Mug.   Oy, look at Steve's punim! FROM THE SCRIPTURES Matthew 5:17   “Do not think I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets.  I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.” FOI Equip Classes:   A Guide to the End of the World THOMAS ICE MAY 8, 15, 22   Did you know God has provided a guide to understanding the end of the world? For many, thinking of the world's end brings fear and anxiety, but it doesn't have to be that way. In this month's FOI Equip class, Dr. Thomas Ice will explore the Olivet Discourse in Matthew 24 and 25, revealing how its message offers clarity, joy, and peace. Discover how God's prophetic roadmap points to Jesus' return and learn practical applications from this teaching. Join Dr. Ice as he unpacks biblical prophecy and its relevance for our lives today!   Register: foiequip.org   FOI Resources  Get a free one-year trial subscription to Israel My Glory https://israelmyglory.org/subscribe/ Get Involved with Friends of Israel Gospel Ministry https://www.foi.org/outreach   Chris Katulka's book: Israel Always foi.org/israelalways   Steve Herzig's book: Jewish Culture & Customs foi.org/jcc   Christmas is Jewish Finding Messiah in Passover messiahinpassover.org   Harbingers Daily https://harbingersdaily.com/ In the News:   Mossad seizes 2,500 document Syrian files on executed spy Eli Cohen https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-854436?utm_source=jpost.app.apple&utm_medium=share#google_vignette   Spanish PM claims Israel's Eurovision participation shows EBU's double standard https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/culture/article-854587   UK, France, Canada warn of ‘concrete actions' if Israel doesn't halt war, boost aid https://www.timesofisrael.com/uk-france-canada-warn-of-concrete-actions-if-israel-doesnt-halt-war-boost-aid/ Former hostage throws out first pitch at Fenway as Red Sox host Jewish Heritage Night https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/former-hostage-throws-out-first-pitch-at-fenway-as-red-sox-host-jewish-heritage-night/ Yiddish Word of the Day: Drash—Give a sermon, discuss an interpretation of the text

Israel and Zionism: Could I have picked a hotter topic? Well, cool your jets, man. Sam Brody, PhD, an associate professor of religious studies at University of Kansas, is going to bring a nuanced view of Zionism, theology, politics, and the ever-in-the-news dilemma of the nation-state of Israel by exploring an early thinker on the topic who's most famous these days in bookstores for his religious work alone: Martin Buber. If there are terms you don't get as you listen, stop and look them up. It's not too deep. Then, bask in Brody's thoughts on the evolving thinking of Buber, whom he says brings an “anarchist” reading to the Bible to support his ideas about what kind of people the Jews are and what kind of place Israel could be. His book is Martin Buber's Theopolitics (what a fantastic word!), published in 2018 by Indiana University Press. Sure, the academic hardback is $90, but the ebook is only $9.99. Don't be a cheapskate. When I asked what people completely new to Buber should dig into first—how they should order their first dive into the life and ideas of this empathetic Jewish philosopher famous for his ideas on relational thinking—he recommends some books at the tail end of the podcast (before Brody's recommendations, I recommend you read a way-too-short and over-simplified snapshot about Buber here, and if you're into philosophy, head here): I and Thou, in many old and new versions all over, here in a 100th anniversary reissue Buber's Hasidic stories (here or here, all available in earlier cheaper editions, too) about the great Eastern European rabbis—and the first of them, the Ba'al Shem Tov—from the past few centuries who focused on making Judaism more attainable and emotional overly scholarly and intellectual Thinker Paul Mendes-Flohr, of blessed memory—either reading his book on Buber or watching a talk he gave about the book in synagogue “Then after that,” Brody says in our interview, “you can read my book.” After speaking to Brody, I think about the clash of politics and theology in a way, way different way. So this interview was, without exaggerating, eye-opening and mind-shifting for me. May it be for you, too!

Orit Esther Riter​ is an Emuna Energizer, Renowned Inspirational Speaker, Author and the Practicing Founder of the First Haskamah-Approved Torah-Centric Energy Therapy Program.   After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 19 years ago, ​Emuna was the answer to Orit Esther's healing, growth, and building of a solid foundation with Hashem. So much so, Orit Esther redirected her culinary chef career to a more meaningful path of spreading ​Emuna.  Orit Esther believes that every soul is beautiful and holds positive energy and light that deserves to shine​ and therefore single-handedly began an Emuna ​movement worldwide​ devoted to helping others heal from trauma and pain. ​   Her diverse healing techniques, teachings, programs and courses are found on the Or Emuna Therapeutic Healing Academy platform at oremuna.org and are based on the transformative teachings of the Holy Ba'al Shem Tov​. Her teachings focus on practical strategies to restore emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health​.   Orit Esther's end goal - supercharge those who attend the programs to embark on the ​Emuna movement of Torah consciousness in the most palpable and applicable way in our dor hageula, the generation of Mashiach.​ You can write to Orit Esther at oremunausa@gmail.com   This episode has been sponsored by:      ►Colel Chabad Pushka App   The easiest way to give Tzedaka download the Pushka app today    https://pushka.cc/meaningful   Get Tickets to Nafshi Here!   https://colelchabad.events/?src=meaningful ______________________________________   ► PZ Deals     Download the PZ Deals app and never pay full price again!   https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp ______________________________________   ►Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years!   Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/txgUI   ______________________________________   ►Town Appliance   Visit https://www.townappliance.com    Message Town Appliance on WhatsApp:    https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp ________________________________ ► Koren Publishers   From Gemaras, Chumashim, Siddurim to Tenach and best selling titles, Koren is the go to place!   10% off everything at www.korenpub.com with code MEANINGFUL at checkout. ________________________________ ► NRS Pay    NRS Pay is honest, clean credit card processing.   Check out    https://nrspay.com  for more information   ________________________________   ►Toveedo     The Jewish videos your kids will love all in one happy place!      Stream unlimited videos on your phone, tablet, laptop, desktop, and smart TV.    From new releases, to your favorite classics, and exclusive originals, there's always something new to discover.   Use MM10 for 10% off     See our full library on  https://toveedo.com   ________________________________________ ►Pesach With Bordeaux    Join Nachi Gordon, R' Daniel Kalish, R' Jonathan Rietti + More at Pesach With Bordeaux this year!! Message them for rates and booking https://api.whatsapp.com/send?phone=13476996120&text=Hey!%20I'm%20interested%20in%20some%20more%20information%20about%20Pesach%20With%20Bourdeaux.%20   —————————————————— ► Growtha   We get you more than traffic. We get you more leads.   https://growtha.com/meaningful     Subscribe to our Podcast      Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/2WALuE2      Spotify: https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO      Or wherever Podcasts are available!  

When people take upon themselves to do extra mitzvot as a zechut for something they want, they may feel disheartened if they don't receive what they hoped for. Heaven forbid, they might even regret the extra effort they invested in performing that mitzva. We must never lose sight of the real purpose of this world. The true gain is always the mitzva itself. If a situation we are experiencing inspires us to do more mitzvot, we have already achieved the ultimate goal. If we truly understood the value of a single mitzva, we would realize that any physical gain pales in comparison. If we really grasped what this world is about, we would gladly take upon ourselves additional mitzvot just to have the zechut that Hashem grants us more opportunities to fulfill more mitzvot. The Sefer Sas B'Imratecha shares a story about two older boys who were still unmarried. They decided to travel to Tzfat to immerse in the mikveh of the Arizal and to pray at kivrei tzaddikim. They also planned to spend Shabbat there. They set out on a Friday morning, but delay after delay and unprecedented traffic left them on a bus near Teveria with only half an hour remaining before Shabbat. Fortunately, they had a friend in Teveria, so they got off the bus, hoping to locate his house and have a place to stay for Shabbat. They hailed a taxi but couldn't provide the driver with a precise address. With just ten minutes left before Shabbat, they decided to get out in a nearby neighborhood. Desperate, they approached the closest building and knocked on the first door they encountered. The ba'al habayit opened the door and saw two young men standing there with suitcases. After they quickly explained their situation, he happily invited them to stay for Shabbat. They changed and set off for shul. During the meal, they shared with their host the challenges they faced that day and how they ended up in Teveria with only minutes to spare before Shabbat. The baal habayit reassured them, saying, "It was all min haShamayim . Do you think it was a coincidence that you were dropped off near my house? Do you think it was random that you knocked on my door? Let me explain what happened today." He continued, "We were in need of a yeshua, so my wife and I traveled to Ukraine to pray at the kever of the Ba'al Shem Tov. We found ourselves there for Shabbat without any food, unsure of what to do. Then we met a group of Jews from America. They were so warm and welcoming, inviting us to join them for Shabbat. We had the most beautiful Shabbat, with an abundance of food for every meal. We thanked our hosts and praised Hashem for sending us such kind individuals to take care of us. "Before we left Ukraine, we returned to the kever of the Ba'al Shem Tov. Inspired by the incredible hachnasat orchim we experienced, we prayed for the zechut to fulfill this mitzvah ourselves. "We returned from our trip this morning. My wife was utterly exhausted, but she quickly prepared food for Shabbat so she could rest. Later in the day, our married children called to invite us to spend Shabbat with them. However, we were already asleep when they called. Instead, they cooked for us and delivered an entire Shabbat meal. Suddenly, we had double the food we needed. "Then, the doorbell rang, and you two were standing there. At that moment, everything fell into place. We prayed for the zechut of hosting guests, and Hashem not only prepared all the food but also sent the guests we longed for right to our doorstep." That Shabbat, the atmosphere was electrifying. They sang zemirot, shared divrei Torah, and experienced a truly uplifting Shabbat. One week later, a shadchan contacted one of the boys and suggested a shidduch with the daughter of the family who hosted them. A month later, they celebrated their engagement. Even if the shidduch had not happened, the story would still be incredible. The couple understood the value of a mitzvah and prayed to Hashem for the opportunity to fulfill it. Hashem orchestrated so many events to grant them that opportunity. The shidduch was a beautiful bonus. But the main purpose of this world is Torah and mitzvot, and whenever we have the zechut to perform any mitzvah, we should recognize it as our greatest gain.

Hi everyone! Welcome back to another episode of The Chai on Life Podcast. I'm Alex Segal and today, I am speaking with Orit Esther Riter, an Emuna Energizer (I love that), a Renowned Inspirational Speaker, Author and the Practicing Founder of the First Haskamah-Approved Torah-Centric Energy Therapy Program.After being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 19 years ago, ​emuna was the answer to Orit Esther's healing, growth, and building of a solid foundation with Hashem. So much so, she redirected her culinary chef career to a more meaningful path of spreading ​emuna. Orit Esther believes that every soul is beautiful and holds positive energy and light that deserves to shine​ and therefore single-handedly began an emuna ​movement worldwide​ devoted to helping others heal from trauma and pain. Her teachings are based on the work of the Holy Ba'al Shem tov and focus on practical strategies to restore emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health​.In this episode, we go deep into Orit Esther's story — staring way before her diagnosis, and how she persevered through all of the challenges along the way. We learn how she found Hashem in different ways at different points along the journey, and how relationship grew and matured as she did.The ups and downs are vast, yet the way she cultivated emuna and real healing in it is the most inspiring. It's impossible to hear this story and not feel inspired to work on your emuna and really grip it with all that you have.In a time now, in Kislev, and in the world when we're experiencing darkness, Orit Esther's story will bring you back to the light. Her story will invigorate you and remind you why we're doing all of this, what the grounding force is when you live a life with Hashem, and how and why to consistently get back to it.I'm so honored to have powerful woman on the podcast and so excited for you to hear her message. So now, let's get into my conversation with Orit Esther.Gain more from Orit Esther below:oremunaenergy.comGet her books on Amazon:Turn Around 180 Degrees in 180 DaysTurn Around Your EmotionsTurn Around Your Life with the Ba'al Shem Tov

Hello to you listening in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada!Coming to you from Whidbey Island, Washington this is Stories From Women Who Walk with 60 Seconds (and a bit more for a story) for Story Prompt Friday and your host, Diane Wyzga.How do we get good at turning toward the uncertain future?How do we sustain ourselves, and each other?How can we help each other, even--or especially--those with whom we don't agree, through the revolutions ahead?  I have an idea. We can share our stories. Here's one.The great Polish rabbi, Israel ben Eliezer, also known as the Ba'al Shem Tov, deeply loved his people.  Whenever they were troubled or persecuted he went to a sacred place in the forest, lit a sacred fire, and said a special prayer asking God to protect his people. It was enough and the people were saved. But in time the Ba'al Shem Tov died.  Later, his disciple, following in his master's footsteps, went into the same part of the forest and said, “Creator of the Universe, I do not know how to light the sacred fire, but I do know the special prayer; please, hear me! and help your people.” And it was enough.Generations passed and when the next Rabbi saw how his people were being persecuted, he went into the forest and said, “Oh, Lord, I don't know how to light the sacred fire, nor do I know the special prayer, but I still remember the place.  Help us! Protect the people”  And the people were protected.Decades later, a very elderly rabbi seeing his people being persecuted, spoke to God saying, “I don't know how to light the sacred fire, nor do I know the special prayer, and I can't even find the place in the forest. All I can do is tell you this story and hope that you will hear me. Please help the people!”  And again the people were spared.Story Prompt: When we find ourselves lost in the forest, do not know how to light the sacred fire, or say the special prayer, we can share our stories. What else might we do to help each other? Write that story!You're always invited: “Come for the stories - stay for the magic!” Speaking of magic, would you subscribe and spread the word with a generous 5-star review and comment - it helps us all - and join us next time!Meanwhile, stop by my Quarter Moon Story Arts website to:✓ Check out Services I Offer https://www.quartermoonstoryarts.net/services/,✓ For a no-obligation conversation about your communication challenges, get in touch with me today✓ Stay current with Diane as “Wyzga on Words” on Substack and on LinkedInStories From Women Who Walk Production TeamPodcaster: Diane F Wyzga & Quarter Moon Story ArtsMusic: Mer's Waltz from Crossing the Waters by Steve Schuch & Night Heron MusicAll content and image © 2019 to Present Quarter Moon Story Arts. All rights reserved. 

In today's episode we discuss the conclusion of the Alter Rebbe's answer to the opponents of the teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov regarding the Schechina being vested within idolators.Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 25. Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Alter Rebbe's commentary on a teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov as to why anger is likened to idolatry. Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 25.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

Parshas Matot-Masei: Tribes and Journeys. Read the post at: https://jewishprolifefoundation.org/pro-life-blog/parshas-matot-masei-tribes-and-journeys The Torah learning and activity of a fetus in its mother's womb https://shulchanaruchharav.com/halacha/the-torah-learning-and-activity-of-a-fetus-in-its-mothers-womb/ To learn more about the Baal Shem Tov, we recommend Dr. Henry Abramson's entertaining and informative lecture. Who Was The Ba'al Shem Tov? Founder of Hasidism Jewish History Lecture Dr. Henry Abramson https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjwJFC4wYPg This Torah portion includes warnings from the Almighty to safeguard Jewish culture by dispossessing the tribes currently inhabiting the land and destroying their idols and shrines. The Seven Nations of Canaan This is a comprehensive treatise on the biblical writings of this commandment. https://seforimblog.com/2015/07/the-seven-nations-of-canaan/ At the Jewish Pro-Life Foundation, we're making the original pro-life religion pro-life again! News, education, enlightenment and spiritual renewal. Saving Jewish Lives & Healing Jewish Hearts by providing the Jewish community with Pro-Life Education, Pregnancy Care and Adoption Referrals, and Healing After Abortion. To learn more visit https://jewishprolifefoundation.org/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JewishProLifeFoundation/ Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JewishProLife Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCk8B3l4KxJX4T9l8F5l-wkQ Follow us on MeWe: https://mewe.com/i/cecilyroutman Follow us on Gab: https://gab.com/JewishProLife Clouthub: https://app.clouthub.com/forum#/users/u/ProLifeCecily Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cecily-routman-3085ab140/ Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cecilyroutman/ Follow us on Gettr: https://gettr.com/user/prolifececily Follow us on Brighteon Social: https://brighteon.social/@ProLifeCecily Follow us on Rumble: https://rumble.com/c/JewishProLifeFoundation Follow us on TruthSocial:https://truthsocial.com/@prolifececily Follow us on Telegram: https://t.me/JewishProLife Follow us on Podcasts: https://jewishprolife.libsyn.com/ Donate: https://jewishprolifefoundation.org/donate  In Israel: https://jewishprolifefoundation.co.il The Jewish Pro-Life Foundation is an IRS approved 501(c)3 non-profit educational  public charity. We are committed to Torah and Jewish Tradition. We are not affiliated with any political organization or any other religious organization or movement.

Dr. Yanina Purim-Shem-Tov, Executive Vice Chair of Emergency Medicine at Rush Medical Center discusses the significant changes in nursing due to issues like low compensation and staffing shortages, which have created new opportunities such as increased mobility within the profession. She emphasizes that despite technological advancements, the need for human labor to support these innovations remains crucial.

Explaining the Wisdom of Harav Yehuda Amital zt"l (Part 19), by Rav Moshe Taragin In light of the recent publication of the sefer לעולם יהא אדם, מתורותיו של הרב יהודה עמיטל, Rav Taragin discusses with his talmidim many of the issues brought up in his rebbe's sichot: Tefilla as a Barometer of Authenticity and Spirituality; The Ba'al Shem Tov's Assurance to his Talmidim; Focusing on the "Little Things" 

A Daily Dose of Chassidus with Rabbi Shmuel Braun

Most people have this terrible habit of determining how their lives are going by comparing themselves to others. They look around at other people's homes, careers, children, vacations, and so on, and then see how their own lives compare to other people's lives. This is a very unhealthy way to live. This creates a lot of anxiety, and makes it all but impossible to experience fulfillment and contentment in life. People who live this way are often bitter and resentful when they see other people's success and blessings, because that success and those blessings are understood as indications of their own failure. To gain a proper perspective on this problem, let us turn to the mitzva of birkat kohanim , which the Torah presents in Parashat Naso. Every morning, the kohanim stand in front of the shul and confer a blessing upon the rest of the congregation. Hashem says to Moshe, דבר אל אהרון ואל בניו לאמר: כה תברכו את בני ישראל, אמור להם – “Speak to Aharon and his sons, saying: So shall you bless the people of Israel: Say to them…” Rather than simply command the kohanim to pronounce the blessing to the people, Moshe was to first tell the kohanim , כה תברכו את בני ישראל – “So shall you bless the people…” At first glance, this seems redundant. What is the meaning of this introductory statement – כה תברכו ? The answer to this question might be found in a different pasuk , one of the more famous pesukim in Tehillim (121:5): ה' צלך על יד ימינך – “G-d is your shadow on your right side.” The Ba'al Shem Tov explains that Hashem is our “shadow” in the sense that He acts toward us the same way that we act. If we are kind and generous to people, then He is kind and generous to us. If we celebrate other people's successes and sincerely want to see them blessed, then Hashem looks at us the same way. This is much easier said than done. It is so hard to hear about somebody's blessing that we don't have and feel genuinely happy for that person. It is so hard for a person with older unmarried children to celebrate when his or her friend's daughter gets engaged. It is so hard for people struggling to pay their bills to feel happy for their neighbors who are renovating their home. But perhaps we can make this challenge easier by remembering the concept of ה' צלך , Hashem being our “shadow.” If we wish for the success of others, then Hashem will wish for our success, too. If we want the best for the people around us, then Hashem will want the best for us. This concept is expressed by the word כה , which literally means, “like this.” כה alludes to the fact that Hashem deals with us the same way we conduct ourselves. The way we look upon others determines the way Hashem looks upon us. Moshe was therefore commanded to turn to the kohanim and tell them, כה תברכו את בני ישראל . The first and most important blessing they can give Beneh Yisrael is the message of כה , teaching them that Hashem deals with them the way they deal with others. Without this concept, we will be unable to enjoy any berachah that we receive. No blessing in our lives will ever make us happy if we are constantly comparing ourselves to other people, because there will always be people with more than what we have. And thus birkat kohanim must begin with כה תברכו , with the message that we must wish for the good fortune of other people so that Hashem will wish for our good fortune. Only then can we receive the many blessings that Hashem wishes to bestow upon us. This message is taught by the kohanim , because they are the descendants of Aharon, the person who embodied this concept. The Torah tells that Aharon rejoiced when his younger brother, Moshe, was appointed leader of the nation ( וראך ושמח בלבו – Shemot 4:14). He felt no jealousy and no resentment; he felt only joy. This is the model we should aspire to, as this quality is what enables us to enjoy life's blessings. Let us, then, try to overcome our natural feelings of envy and competition, to truly rejoice over other people's good fortune. We will then find ourselves so much happier with our lives, and we will then make ourselves worthy of Hashem's abundant blessings.

Join Yael and Schwab as they delve into the world of 18th-century Jewish mysticism through the life of Hillel Ba'al Shem and his manuscript "Sefer HaCheshek." Exploring failed miracles and comedic exorcisms with humor and humility, they contrast Hillel's legacy with the revered Ba'al Shem Tov, uncovering profound philosophical insights and historical context, from Kabbalah to controversies surrounding figures like Shabbetai Tzvi, sparking captivating conversations about faith, belief, and the human condition. This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we're produced by Rivky Stern. For more on Hillel Ba'al Shem, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jAk-0caPNldFuatKkAvwLjilQzLrBFk41Q-n2HBwcSI/edit?usp=sharing This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living

Yahrtzeit Yomi #866!! יט כסלו (Shabbos) Maggid of Mezeritch רב דֹּב בֶּער ב״ר אברהם המגיד מִמֶּזְרִיטְש (1704 - 1772) ----------------------------------- Shabbos, 19 Kislev, marked the 251st Yahrtzeit of Harav Dov Ber, the Maggid of Mezeritch ZTL (1704 - 1772). Rav Dov Ber was the foremost disciple of, and ultimate successor to, the founder of Chassidus, Rav Yisroel Ba'al Shem Tov. A brilliant child prodigy, he went to Lvov to learn under the great Pnei Yehoshua, while still a youngster. After the Ba'al Shem Tov's petirah, the authority of Rav Dov Ber was recognized by one and all. Among his illustrious talmidim were: the Rebbe Reb Shmuel Shmelke HaLevi Horowitz, and his brother, Reb Pinchas HaLevi Horowitz, the Ba'al Hafla'ah; the Rebbe Reb Zushya and his brother, Reb Elimelech of Lizhensk; Rav Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev; Rav Nachum of Chernobyl; and the Ba'al Hatanya, Rav Shneur Zalman of Liadi. I would like to share a wondrous illustration of the great brilliance of Rav Dov Ber, which he exhibited as a mere child. When Dov Ber was a young boy in Yeshiva, the Rebbi was teaching the talmidim the dispute between Rashi and Tosafos regarding the correct conduct for one who finds himself in the middle of his “silent shemoneh esrei” (עמידה), when the chazzan is reciting קדושה: Rashi (סוכה לח: ד״ה הוא אומר ברוך הבא) is of the opinion that he should stop davening and listen to the chazzan, and it will be considered as if he himself recited the words (שומע כעונה). Tosafos (ברכות כא: ד״ה עד) object to Rashi's statement, because if his listening is considered as though he himself actually said the words, that would constitute an interruption in his personal shemona esrei!! (״אדרבה - אי שומע כעונה, הוי הפסקה אם שותק!!״) Young Dov Ber proposed an ingenious answer to Tosafos' question: “Chazal teach us that when it comes to Mitzvos, Hashem considers a thought like it's an actual deed, but when it comes to Aveiros, He does not - ״מחשבה טובה הקב״ה מצרפה למעשה, וכו׳״ (See Kiddushin 40a). “So”, said little Dov Ber - “as regards the Mitzvah of saying Kedusha, it is considered as if he said the words, as that is a Mitzvah. But as regards the sin of interrupting his Shemoneh Esrei, since that act is an Aveirah, it would not be considered as an interruption!!” (עיין משנה ברורה סימן קד, ס״ק כח) (NOTE: Ultimately, Tosafos end up agreeing with Rashi in practice, and that is the how the Shulchan Aruch paskens in 104:7 - ״אינו פוסק לא לקדיש ולא לקדשה, אלא ישתק ויכון למה שאומר שליח צבור ויהא כעונה״!!) זכותו יגן עלינו!! -------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------ To dedicate or sponsor, please contact 917-841-5059. First come, first served. Monthly sponsorships are $540. Weekly sponsorships are $180. Daily sponsorships are as follows: Dedications (l'Zecher Nishmas, Zechus shidduch/refuah/yeshuah, etc.) are $50. Sponsorships (fliers, advertising, promotions, additional links, etc.) are $100. The cost to request and sponsor a Tzaddik that is not included on the following list is $180. Kislev Yahrtzeits!! 1. The Rebbe Recovers 2. Rav Aharon Kotler/Rav Nosson Meir Wachtfogel 3. Rav Yaakov Moshe Kulefsky 4. Nevuas Zechariah 5. Maharsha/Rav Boruch Ber 6. Rav Michoel Dov Weissmandel 7. Megillas Taanis 8. Rav Eliezer Geldzahler 9. Mitteler Rebbe 10. Rav Isser Zalman Meltzer 11. “Kislev Providence” 12. Maharshal/Bas Ayin 13. Ravina brei D'rav Huna 14. Reuven ben Yaakov Avinu 15. Rabi Yehudah HaNasi 16. 2nd Modzhitzer Rebbe 17. Alter of Novardok/Rav Shlomo Heiman 18. Bostoner Rebbe 19. Mezeritcher Maggid 20. Rav Yitzchak Hutner 21. Yom Har Gerizim/Rav Tzvi Pesach Frank 22. Rav Shalom Mordechai Schwadron 23. Galya Masechta 24. Chaggai perek 2/Sdei Chemed 25. Aruch LaNer 26. Ra'avad III 27. Pri Chadash 28. Rav Eliyahu Meir Bloch 29. Cheshek Shlomo Share the Yahrtzeit Yomi link with your contacts!! https://chat.whatsapp.com/JimbwNtBaX31vmRDdnO3yk

In today's episode we discuss the conclusion of the Alter Rebbe's answer to the opponents of the teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov regarding the Schechina being vested within idolators.Iggeres HaKodesh, End of Epistle 25.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

In today's episode we discuss the Alter Rebbe's commentary on a teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov as to why anger is likened to idolatry.Iggeres HaKodesh, Beginning of Epistle 25.Music by Shoshannah.   Follow us on:  Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, InstagramTo sponsor an episode or for any other inquiries, email: itistaught@gmail.com Support the show

The content you've all been waiting for. Nick is joined this week by their good friend, Biata, to discuss the 2013 prequel animated film, Monsters University. A podcast ten years in the making, the two finally sit down to watch and discuss this often overlooked Pixar film. Is it deserving of an hour long podcast? You'll have to listen to find out. May 25, 2023. Host: Nicholas LaDue (@nick_ladue) Guest: Biata Shem-Tov (@biatatata) produced by fountain house

The core theology of Chassidus

The core theology of Chassidus

This week we finish our two-part series in partnership with Encounter honoring Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut. We share stories from American Jews who found moments of humanity and mutual respect and understanding with Palestinians, helping to bridge the distance between cultures, countries, and continents. We also bid l'hitraot (see you soon!) to Josh as he leaves Chutzpod for other projects.

This week is our first of two episodes in partnership with Encounter in honor of Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israeli Memorial Day and Independence Day, respectively). We share the stories of two Israelis and two Palestinians on their experience seeing "the other," and how it has helped them believe a different future is possible. This is a must-listen episode; we hope you return to it again and again. 

"The Rambam is responsible for the weakening of faith!"

קְרִיעַת יַם סוּף vs מַעֲמַד הַר סִינַי

Hilchot Pesach part 4

A Daily Dose of Chassidus with Rabbi Shmuel Braun Manifesting- the Hasidic way.

1) Visit of the Czar 2) Cross Examination and questions and answers, 3) Kidush Levana 4) Visit of the Ba'al Shem Tov and the Maggid of Mezrirch.

Part 1 of this talk, Reb Brian Yosef and Joel share thoughts and perspectives on Divine Providence, dreams, spiritual awakening, meditation, and the importance of how to integrate awakening experiences into our daily lives, in an enduring way. Also, seeing beyond our human conditioning into our deeper self, our Soul, and the intellect as a tool for spirituality. Buddhism and Judaism are compared and contrasted, things like 'Mu-shin,' or 'no-mind,' the mystical aspect of life seeing into emptiness or Reality. What is Kabbalah: what does it mean? who is it for? what does it offer? Kabbalah, Chasidism, The Ba'al Shem Tov and the historical developments of Judaism's spirituality. What and why does spirituality benefit people? Bio: Reb Brian Yosef Schachter-Brooks is a Jewish spiritual teacher and musician. He has been teaching the practice of Presence (meditation, mindfulness) and Judaism since 2006, and founded Torah of Awakening in 2016. He is the author of Kabbalah for Beginners, published by Rockridge Press, and Integral Jewish Meditation – Three Portals of Presence for Spiritual Awakening.Reb Brian Yosef received s’miha (ordination) as Minister of Sacred Music (Reb Yosef Briah Zohar, Menatzeiakh, Ba’al Tefilah) from Reb Zalman z”l (2012), Spiritual Teacher and Awakener of Souls (Morei Rukhani uM’oreir N’shamot) from Shaykh Ibrahim Baba Farajaje (may his secret be sanctified) and Rabbi SaraLeya Schley (2012), certification as Teacher of Jewish Meditation (Moreh L’hitbodedut) from Dr. Rabbi Avram Davis (2004), and holds a Bachelor in Music from the Eastman School of Music (1991).

Sifting through a dense catalog of state regulations in search of some inspiration for the High Holy Days - with some help from the Ba'al Shem Tov and Abraham Maslow. 

oday I talked to Rabbi Wayne Allen about his book Thinking about Good and Evil: Jewish Views from Antiquity to Modernity (U Nebraska Press, 2021). Starting with the Bible and Apocrypha, Rabbi Allen takes us through the Talmud; medieval Jewish philosophers and Jewish mystical sources; the Ba'al Shem Tov and his disciples; early modern thinkers such as Spinoza, Mendelssohn, and Luzzatto; and, finally, modern thinkers such as Cohen, Buber, Kaplan, and Plaskow. Each chapter analyzes individual thinkers' arguments and synthesizes their collective ideas on the nature of good and evil and questions of justice. Allen also exposes vastly divergent Jewish thinking about the Holocaust: traditionalist (e.g., Ehrenreich), revisionist (e.g., Rubenstein, Jonas), and deflective (e.g., Soloveitchik, Wiesel). Rabbi Allen's engaging, accessible volume illuminates well-known, obscure, and novel Jewish solutions to the problem of good and evil. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

oday I talked to Rabbi Wayne Allen about his book Thinking about Good and Evil: Jewish Views from Antiquity to Modernity (U Nebraska Press, 2021). Starting with the Bible and Apocrypha, Rabbi Allen takes us through the Talmud; medieval Jewish philosophers and Jewish mystical sources; the Ba'al Shem Tov and his disciples; early modern thinkers such as Spinoza, Mendelssohn, and Luzzatto; and, finally, modern thinkers such as Cohen, Buber, Kaplan, and Plaskow. Each chapter analyzes individual thinkers' arguments and synthesizes their collective ideas on the nature of good and evil and questions of justice. Allen also exposes vastly divergent Jewish thinking about the Holocaust: traditionalist (e.g., Ehrenreich), revisionist (e.g., Rubenstein, Jonas), and deflective (e.g., Soloveitchik, Wiesel). Rabbi Allen's engaging, accessible volume illuminates well-known, obscure, and novel Jewish solutions to the problem of good and evil. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

oday I talked to Rabbi Wayne Allen about his book Thinking about Good and Evil: Jewish Views from Antiquity to Modernity (U Nebraska Press, 2021). Starting with the Bible and Apocrypha, Rabbi Allen takes us through the Talmud; medieval Jewish philosophers and Jewish mystical sources; the Ba'al Shem Tov and his disciples; early modern thinkers such as Spinoza, Mendelssohn, and Luzzatto; and, finally, modern thinkers such as Cohen, Buber, Kaplan, and Plaskow. Each chapter analyzes individual thinkers' arguments and synthesizes their collective ideas on the nature of good and evil and questions of justice. Allen also exposes vastly divergent Jewish thinking about the Holocaust: traditionalist (e.g., Ehrenreich), revisionist (e.g., Rubenstein, Jonas), and deflective (e.g., Soloveitchik, Wiesel). Rabbi Allen's engaging, accessible volume illuminates well-known, obscure, and novel Jewish solutions to the problem of good and evil. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

oday I talked to Rabbi Wayne Allen about his book Thinking about Good and Evil: Jewish Views from Antiquity to Modernity (U Nebraska Press, 2021). Starting with the Bible and Apocrypha, Rabbi Allen takes us through the Talmud; medieval Jewish philosophers and Jewish mystical sources; the Ba'al Shem Tov and his disciples; early modern thinkers such as Spinoza, Mendelssohn, and Luzzatto; and, finally, modern thinkers such as Cohen, Buber, Kaplan, and Plaskow. Each chapter analyzes individual thinkers' arguments and synthesizes their collective ideas on the nature of good and evil and questions of justice. Allen also exposes vastly divergent Jewish thinking about the Holocaust: traditionalist (e.g., Ehrenreich), revisionist (e.g., Rubenstein, Jonas), and deflective (e.g., Soloveitchik, Wiesel). Rabbi Allen's engaging, accessible volume illuminates well-known, obscure, and novel Jewish solutions to the problem of good and evil. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

oday I talked to Rabbi Wayne Allen about his book Thinking about Good and Evil: Jewish Views from Antiquity to Modernity (U Nebraska Press, 2021). Starting with the Bible and Apocrypha, Rabbi Allen takes us through the Talmud; medieval Jewish philosophers and Jewish mystical sources; the Ba'al Shem Tov and his disciples; early modern thinkers such as Spinoza, Mendelssohn, and Luzzatto; and, finally, modern thinkers such as Cohen, Buber, Kaplan, and Plaskow. Each chapter analyzes individual thinkers' arguments and synthesizes their collective ideas on the nature of good and evil and questions of justice. Allen also exposes vastly divergent Jewish thinking about the Holocaust: traditionalist (e.g., Ehrenreich), revisionist (e.g., Rubenstein, Jonas), and deflective (e.g., Soloveitchik, Wiesel). Rabbi Allen's engaging, accessible volume illuminates well-known, obscure, and novel Jewish solutions to the problem of good and evil. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

In this moving conversation with Rabbanit Yafit Clymer, we explore the contributions made by the Ba'al Shem Tov to the world of Torah and his commentary on the parsha's opening list of desert encampments.

Rav Moshe Weinberger shares several personal stories about his Rebbe, Rav Dovid Lifshitz and how the Klausenburger Rebbe had a special motherly care for all those who needed to be uplifted. Rav Weinberger is the founding Morah d'Asrah of Congregation Aish Kodesh in Woodmere, NY (https://www.aishkodesh.org/) & has served as Mashpia in Yeshiva University since 2013 (https://www.yutorah.org/rabbi-moshe-weinberger/). Rav Weinberger is a noted speaker who draws upon a vast array of sources in his shiurim. The diverse currents of the MaHaRal, RaMChal, Ba'al Shem Tov, Vilna Gaon, Rav Tzadok HaKohen, Rebbe Nachman, The Ba'al HaTanya, Rav Kook and others merge within him and are transmitted to countless Jews of all backgrounds thirsting for knowledge, inspiration and guidance. Rav Weinberger has also been intimately involved in Jewish education and outreach for almost thirty years. He has developed a library of shiurim on T'filah, Chassidus, Hashkafah, Rav Kook's sefarim,the Aish Kodesh's sefarim, among others, that are listened to by men and women all over the world

Sefirah: Narrative Revealing the Hidden Sefirot (1) BEHIND THE SCENES: Core, Hidden and Revealed Faculties Ayin Beis Volume 1, Discourse 25, V'Avraham Zokon 5673, Chapter 96 p. 185-186 Short Summary: Long Summary: Yet, the meaning in R' Shem Tov's words -- that the sefirot tell the story of "hidden thoughts" -- is that the containers reveal not only the energies of atzilus, but also that the energies in the containers of the sefirot of atzilus reveal the source of these sefirot in the ten hidden sefirot, that is in the ten hidden sefirot as they extend and begin to manifest. They also reveal a sense of the the core hidden sefirot (prior to their manifesting). We will understand this with an example of human faculties, which are rooted in the core faculties in the core soul. At the core they are not faculties in any way at all, only that the faculties come from there. The core faculties -- which we can say is the level of yechida -- are similar to the core soul (which us beyond all the five dimensions, including yehcida), in the sense that is it totally shapeless (peshitus). They are the level concealment that has no substance (he'lem she'ayno b'metzius), like a flint stone, which is not even a source for the faculties. Source implies 1) some substance, 2) the beginning of a process, as well as 3) that the source is impacted by the process. All these elements are not possible in the core, which 1) has no substance, 2) precedes the process, 3) is not impacted by the process. The core faculties are expressed, but not the way a source expresses itself. We can say that the core faculties don't emerge from the core soul rather that the core soul "carries" within it, from its inception, all the archetypal faculties. The core faculties in turn produce the source faculties, which now can be defined as a "source," that is not yet a revealed faculty, but neither is totally abstract; it is now in the category of faculty, though not revealed. This is called "hidden transmission" (hamshocho ne'elemes), the power to conceive (koach ha'maskil), which cannot be defined as expressed intellect, but is in the world of intellect nonetheless. It is beyond (defies) actual concepts, but is not beyond (does not defy) the category of intelligence.

Sefirah: Narrative WHY DO WE NEED ATZILUS? Ayin Beis Volume 1, Discourse 25, V'Avraham Zaken 5673, Chapter 95 p. 183-185 Short Summary: Long Summary: R' Shem Tov's words, that the sefirot tell and reveal the hidden thoughts is not simply referring to the containers revealing the energies, but that the general spheratic structure, of energies and containers, reveal the divine energy higher than atzilus. The explanation in this can be understood by first appreciating the role and function of atzilus. Atzilus reveals the divine into existence. As it says in the Zohar (II 22b, Parshat Bo), that the ten sefirot are in order for us to perceive and know the divine (attributes). Without atzilus we wouldn't be able to have an understanding, comprehension and feelings for the divine. G-d could obviously create existence without the interface of atzilus. But then we (through our own tools) would not have a way to become aware of and to sense the divine. Because existence on its own, by definition, conceals the divine. Indeed, it is this concealment that allows existence to come into being as an independent entity. Especially if existence would have been created without atzilus, then there would have been no progressive manifestation (hislabshus) of the divine in the process of creation, thus there would have been no connection and relationship between the creation and its source. The interface of atzilus allows for this relationship, and for there to be divine awareness in existence. Though creation itself dictates that there is a creator, and also that the creator is infinitely beyond us, thus giving us a sense of the eminence (hafloah) of the divine -- yet: this awareness itself is 1) due to atzilus, 2) only a general awareness, no details, and 3) even the eminence of the divine (sensed by a creation that is infinitely inferior) is not the true definition of grandeur, because what type of eminence is it to say that something is greater than a lowly crass (self-absorbed) existence (yesh)?! It is only through atzilus -- which reveals the hidden divine power of the finite (the ten hidden sefirot) and expresses the divine in a form of structure -- that allows our (airtight) existence to connect, become aware and feel the divine. Our existence was created as a "new," independent, entity, which conceals its source; atzilus emerged as an entity that is not "new," but one that reveals the hidden divine, and reveals it in a way that can be received by existence. Due to the emanation of atzilus manifesting in specific divine attributes, faculties and emotions (the ten sefirot: chochma, binah, chesed, gevurah etc.), existence has in it (the capacity for) comprehending and experiencing (feeling) the divine in detail. As the Zohar says, that because the divine energy contracted and channeled into specific attributes we are able to perceive the divine through His attributes. As the Pardes explains (this Zohar), that this is also through the containers which shape and define the energy.