Podcasts about Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

How Should Tehillim Be Said?

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

אֲחֵינוּ כָּל בֵּית יִשְׂרָאֵל, הַנְּתוּנִים בַּצָּרָה וּבַשִּׁבְיָה, הַמָּקוֹם יְרַחֵם עֲלֵיהֶם We say this heartfelt tefillah, asking Hashem to have mercy upon all of our brothers who are currently in danger. A question has been asked: Why do we say "Achenu kol Beit Yisrael" — all of the Jewish people? It seems to imply that every Jew is in danger, even though the threat may be limited to a specific location or group. The answer is that when one Jew is in pain , every Jew feels that pain. This is the strength of our nation — a people bound together by heart and soul. And it is in that merit — that we feel the suffering of our fellow Jews as our own — that we pray for הַמָּקוֹם יְרַחֵם עֲלֵיהֶם , that Hashem will indeed have mercy upon them. During World War I, the Chafetz Chaim was seen sleeping on a hard bench, using his hands as a pillow. Concerned for his health, his relatives asked him why he wouldn't sleep in a bed. He replied, "How can I sleep comfortably when thousands of my brothers are in danger, gripped with fear and uncertainty?" We are not being asked to sleep on a hard bench. But we must recognize that the deeds and prayers we offer on behalf of our brothers and sisters are the very zechuyot — the merits — that bring salvation. The pasuk in Parashat Beha'alotekha tells us: וַהֲיָה אִם־תֵּצֵא מִלְחָמָה בְּאַרְצְכֶם... וַהֲרֵעֹתֶם בַּחֲצֹצְרוֹת וְנִזְכַּרְתֶּם לִפְנֵי ה' אֱלֹקֵיכֶם וְנוֹשַׁעְתֶּם מֵאֹיְבֵיכֶם "When you go out to war in your land… you shall sound the trumpets, and you will be remembered before Hashem your God, and you will be saved from your enemies." When we do something that makes us remembered favorably to Hashem then Hashem saves us from our enemies. We have already seen extraordinary siyata dishmaya in the miracles that have occurred this past year. Hashem can destroy all of our enemies in a moment. He can ensure that not a single additional life is lost. But it is our tefillot and ma'asim tovim that will determine that outcome. We know how much Hashem appreciates every kabbalah that we make and sometimes He shows us that right away . A woman shared that she was going through a difficult time and wanted to take on something meaningful. One night, while folding laundry, she decided to cut her wig shorter for the sake of modesty — something she found very hard to do. At the same time, she decided to make her chore time more meaningful by listening to a Torah shiur. She randomly picked a class. In the middle of the shiur, the rabbi began to speak about the power of accepting kabbalot. He explained how something that seems small to us is actually huge in the eyes of Heaven — and he gave the exact example of a woman cutting her wig for modesty. Out of thousands of possible shiurim, she had chosen the one that perfectly reflected her personal decision. Hashem was clearly showing her how valued her efforts were. Another woman had been trying to get married for many years. She recently decided to take on something new as a zechut. She calculated how many Shabbatot remained before Rosh Hashanah and decided that she would treat each one like the queen it is. She committed to buying a new outfit for each Shabbat — without looking at the price — solely to honor Shabbat. She spent over $5,000 — a huge amount for someone living paycheck to paycheck. Just four days later, she received a check for $5,772 for work she had done in the past and didn't know if she would ever be paid for. It was as if Hashem was saying, "I see what you're doing, and I'm with you." Hashem loves every step we take to come closer to Him. We may not always see the results immediately, but we know with certainty that every tefillah , every perek of Tehillim , every act of growth , brings salvation — both for ourselves and for all of Am Yisrael . May Hashem fulfill our tefillah: וְיוֹצִיאֵם מִצָּרָה לִרְוָחָה וּמֵאֲפֵלָה לְאוֹרָה וּמִשִּׁעְבּוּד לִגְאֻלָּה, הַשְׁתָּא בַּעֲגָלָא וּבִזְמַן קָרִיב And have compassion on all our brothers and sisters.

When Does Speaking Between the Arm and Head Tefillin Require Repeating the Beracha? A fundamental rule in Halacha is that one should not interrupt between related stages of a single Misva. With regard to Tefillin, once a person recites the Beracha of "Lehani'ah Tefillin" and places the Shel Yad , he must immediately proceed to place the Shel Rosh , without any interruptions in between. Any unnecessary pause—especially speech —is considered a Hefsek (interruption), and in certain cases, it invalidates the initial Beracha. This is the ruling of Maran in the Shulhan Aruch (O.H. 25:9), which states: "One should not speak between the donning of the Shel Yad and the Shel Rosh. If he did speak, he must recite another Beracha on the Shel Rosh." This ruling is rooted in the Gemara (Menahot 36a), which teaches that both Tefillin are part of one extended Misva. The Beracha on the Shel Yad is intended to cover both the arm and head Tefillin —provided no interruption occurs. Speaking, therefore, severs this connection and requires a new Beracha. What Type of Speech Counts as an Interruption? Not all speech is treated equally. Halacha distinguishes between: Speech unrelated to the Misva (e.g., "How are you today?" or "Did the Yankees win?") — This is considered a clear Hefsek. One must repeat the Beracha , saying "Al Misvat Tefillin" before placing the Shel Rosh. Speech related to the Misva (e.g., "Pass me my Tefillin Shel Rosh," or "I need to adjust the knot") — This is discouraged , but it is not considered a full interruption. A new Beracha is not required , though one should avoid such speech whenever possible. The Ben Ish Hai (Parashat Vayera, 7) writes strongly against any talking, even related to the Misva, and encourages placing both Tefillin with total focus and silence. Nonetheless, he rules that speech about the Tefillin does not invalidate the Beracha. The Mishna Berura (25:36) clarifies that even a brief word or short phrase—if not directly related to Tefillin—is sufficient to be called a Hefsek and require a new Beracha. What About Gestures, Movement, or Sounds? Actions such as gesturing, nodding, or pointing are not considered interruptions , since the mouth remains silent and the Beracha is not disconnected from the Misva. Similarly, clearing the throat or making an involuntary sound does not constitute a Hefsek. Even so, some opinions advise avoiding all forms of distraction—verbal or physical—between Shel Yad and Shel Rosh in order to maintain the full sanctity of the process. What If One Began Another Beracha by Mistake? Another case that often arises is when someone begins saying a Beracha by habit or mistake. For example, after placing the Shel Yad, he begins, "Baruch Ata…," thinking he needs to recite a Beracha before the Shel Rosh. If he says "Baruch Ata…" but stops before saying Hashem's Name , he should immediately stop and not complete the Beracha . This is not considered a Hefsek. If he says "Baruch Ata Hashem…" but realizes the mistake mid-sentence, he should conclude the phrase with "Lamdeni Hukecha" , a verse from Tehillim (119:12), which turns the phrase into a pasuk and avoids a Beracha Levatala. If he completes a full, unrelated Beracha—such as "Shehakol" or "Asher Yasar" —he has certainly interrupted and must repeat the Beracha for Tefillin . This case is discussed in the Ben Ish Hai and the Mishna Berura , and the solution of "Lamdeni Hukecha" is accepted by both Ashkenazim and Sephardim. Summary: No speech is allowed between Tefillin Shel Yad and Shel Rosh. If one speaks unrelated words , he must repeat the Beracha , saying "Al Misvat Tefillin" for the Shel Rosh. If the speech is related to the Misva , no new Beracha is needed, but it is still discouraged. Gestures or movements are not considered interruptions. If one starts a Beracha by mistake , he should either stop immediately or redirect it to a pasuk if Hashem's Name was already mentioned. Remaining silent between the two Tefillin ensures a smooth and spiritually complete fulfillment of this daily Misva.

Rabbi Vann

Rabbi Vann

#366> Episode sponsored by American Intifada: Israel, the Gaza War and the New Antisemitism. To purchase the new book: https://amzn.to/4e6V5bh> To purchase the Hebrew new biography: https://ozvehadar.us/baal-haakedah-Biography/> To purchase Sarah Heller-Wilensky's book about the Philosophy of Rabbi Yitzchak Arama: https://www.bialik-publishing.co.il/index.php?dir=site&page=catalog&op=item&cs=5224> To purchase the new Akeidas Yitzchak HaMevuar: https://ozvehadar.us/akeidas-yitzchok-hamevuar/> To purchase "Meir Tehilloas" on Tehillim by Rabbi Meir Arama: https://ozvehadar.us/meir-tehillos-hamevuar-tehillim/> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show

The Rebbe advises to shift focus entirely to positive matters, especially words of Torah, as even a little light dispels much darkness. He suggests immersion in the mikvah (Tvilas Ezra), daily charity before prayer, and regular study of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya as established by the Previous Rebbe, all without making a vow. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5516

The Rebbe advises to shift focus entirely to positive matters, especially words of Torah, as even a little light dispels much darkness. He suggests daily charity before prayer and regular study of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya as established by the Previous Rebbe, all without making a vow. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5516

In this weeks class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath reveals the Torah's timeless wisdom for navigating today's anxious, high-speed world. Rooted in a single verse from Parshat Behaalotecha, we uncover how the cloud that guided the Jewish people through the desert wasn't just GPS, it was G-d's embrace, offering a blueprint for emotional resilience. Drawing on deep Talmudic insight, the story of the Mishkan, and modern-day inspiration like the heroism of Natan Sharansky, this class is a journey into the eye of the storm… where true serenity lives.Takeaways:* The "Magic Pill" for Stress: A single Torah verse can reframe your entire emotional state.* G-d's Embrace Is Constant: Just like a baby in its mother's arms, we can move through chaos and feel held.* Work ≠ Work: The Torah's definition of melachah (creative labor) holds spiritual secrets for how to balance doing and being.* The Sanctuary Within: Whether building or dismantling, stillness comes from knowing you're in the same Divine space.* Tehillim as a Lifeline: Learn how Psalms became the spiritual oxygen for Natan Sharansky—and how they can be for you, too.* Don't Just Know the Psalm. Know the Shepherd.Support US and Win BIG www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Send us a textIn this weeks class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath reveals the Torah's timeless wisdom for navigating today's anxious, high-speed world. Rooted in a single verse from Parshat Behaalotecha, we uncover how the cloud that guided the Jewish people through the desert wasn't just GPS, it was G-d's embrace, offering a blueprint for emotional resilience. Drawing on deep Talmudic insight, the story of the Mishkan, and modern-day inspiration like the heroism of Natan Sharansky, this class is a journey into the eye of the storm… where true serenity lives.Takeaways:* The "Magic Pill" for Stress: A single Torah verse can reframe your entire emotional state.* G-d's Embrace Is Constant: Just like a baby in its mother's arms, we can move through chaos and feel held.* Work ≠ Work: The Torah's definition of melachah (creative labor) holds spiritual secrets for how to balance doing and being.* The Sanctuary Within: Whether building or dismantling, stillness comes from knowing you're in the same Divine space.* Tehillim as a Lifeline: Learn how Psalms became the spiritual oxygen for Natan Sharansky—and how they can be for you, too.* Don't Just Know the Psalm. Know the Shepherd.Click HERE to purchase a raffle ticket www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Welcome to Daily Bitachon. We continue where we left off in the previous lesson on the concept of bitachon gamur b'lo safek/to have reliance on Hashem without a doubt —based on a pasuk in Yeshayah : V'nish'an al Hashem k'dosh Yisrael/They will rely on Hashem, the Holy One of Israel, b'emet, in truth . The Sefer Ikarim says there in Ma'amar 4 Perek 49 that this bitachon gamur b'lo safek strengthens a person and doesn't weaken him. He quotes a pasuk in Tehillim, and follows that up with another two pesukim to prove his point. The first one is a pasuk in Yeshayah, Perek 40 Pasuk 30-31 וְיִעֲפ֥וּ נְעָרִ֖ים וְיִגָ֑עוּ וּבַחוּרִ֖ים כָּשׁ֥וֹל יִכָּשֵֽׁלוּ׃ Youths may grow wear and tire And young men can constantly tumble. It's possible that, as strong and vibrant as the young are, they will become weary and tired.But, וְקוֹיֵ֤ יְהֹוָה֙ יַחֲלִ֣יפוּ כֹ֔חַ יַעֲל֥וּ אֵ֖בֶר כַּנְּשָׁרִ֑ים יָר֙וּצוּ֙ וְלֹ֣א יִיגָ֔עוּ יֵלְכ֖וּ וְלֹ֥א יִיעָֽפוּ׃ But those who hope in Hashem will have renewed strength, they will grow wings like eagles. They will run and not grow tired. They will walk and not grow weary. Sefer Ikarim explains this to mean that because this man hopes in Hashem, his hope gives him strength. His hope doesn't weaken him, even though he hasn't yet received what he wants. Rather, since his hope is the kind that feels guaranteed—he knows it's going to happen, he knows the sun is coming up in the morning—that gives him more strength. It's a snowball effect. Hope causes strength, and the strength causes more hope. And it goes in a cycle. He says that's what David HaMelech meant when he said kaveh el Hashem—hope to Hashem, chazak v'ya'ametz libecha v'kaveh el Hashem—strengthen your heart and be courageous, and again hope to Hashem. Most of us understand this to mean —and there's truth to it—that you hoped to Hashem and weren't answered, so what do you do? You have to go and work on yourself again to build up hope again. The Sefer Ikarim is not learning it that way. He's saying the first kaveh el Hashem already did something. You hoped to Hashem, and even though you weren't answered, you didn't walk away weak. That hope to Hashem made you stronger, because you were hoping in a way where you felt it was going to happen. And his words are: התקוה סבת החוזק והחוזק סבת התקוה / The hope causes strength, and strength causes even more hope. It's interesting to consider the context of these pesukim in Yeshayahu, which is actually the Haftara of Parashat Lech Lecha. Hashem is asking, " Why are you saying Nistrah darki me'Hashem? Why are you saying Hashem is hiding? That He's not looking at you? That He doesn't know what's going on? He says Hashem is the One who created the world: lo yi'af v'lo yiga—He doesn't get tired, He doesn't get weary. And then it says: Noten laya'ef koach—the One who gives strength to the weary, . This is an extremely relevant point, because every single morning, we say the beracha : Hanoten laya'ef koach, and this pasuk is the source for the that beracha! What a tremendous chiddush! Each morning, you can have in mind that hanoten laya'ef k'oach means kovei Hashem yachlifu ko'ach Hope to Hashem and have renewed strength Where does the ko'ach come from? The ko'ach comes from the fact that we hope in Hashem. Someone who hopes in Hashem gets more strength and more energy. What an unbelievable concept—the snowball effect of hope. But it can not be a hope that's doubtful, or a "maybe hope ," or an "I hope so" kind of hope. It has to be a guaranteed hope. The D'rashot HaRan, in D'rush 6, cites this pasuk as well, about relying on Hashem in truth. He adds that certain people do things in a doubtful way, like: im lo yo'il, lo yazik—if it won't help, at least it won't hurt. And I've heard people say, " I'll go through with it, sure…whatever. I'll give money to charity—it won't help, but it won't hurt." Im lo yo'il, lo yazik—if it doesn't help, at least it won't hurt is not the attitude we're supposed to have in our bitachon. It can't be like a vitamin B12 shot—Is it dangerous? No. It may not help, but won't hurt. Or like a vaccine—maybe it'll hurt. You want to do things that you know for sure are going to help, not just a "maybe." That is the kind of bitachon that will strengthen us.

Listen to what the Baal Shem Tov taught his Talmidim about the simple yidden, and what lesson Reb Dovber took from it.

Raphi Fulcher's Musical Journey and Life as a Black Orthodox Jew   In this episode, Raphi Fulcher, also known as Hebrew, discusses his unique background and perspectives. Growing up as the youngest of six children to parents who converted to Judaism in the 1960s, Raphi shares his experiences moving across different states and eventually studying in Israel. Currently a project manager in digital marketing, Raphi is also a passionate musician. He talks about his musical influences, family background in music, and the transformative experience of performing live. Raphi sheds light on the challenges of dating within the Orthodox Jewish community as a Black man and the importance of finding a partner who understands and is prepared for those challenges. He also discusses the significance of Torah values and the importance of addressing 'otherness' in the Jewish community. Additionally, Raphi shares insights into his music career, Jewish music festivals, and his aspirations to create music that heals and educates.   00:00 Introduction and Background 00:36 Religious and Professional Journey 03:05 Musical Beginnings 04:20 First Performance and Health Struggles 07:24 Stage Name and Identity 09:00 Growing Up Orthodox 20:46 Dating Challenges 29:14 Navigating Relationships and Conversion 30:44 Qualities I'm Looking for in a Partner 32:24 Challenges in Finding the Right Match 35:10 The Birth of a Jewish Music Festival 37:14 Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Music 43:21 The Deeper Meaning of Cain and Hevel 48:45 Practical Advice for Facing Fear 51:39 Sharing My Music and Inspirations   https://www.hebromusic.com https://www.instagram.com/hebromusic/ https://www.youtube.com/@Hebromusic   www.JewishCoffeeHouse.com franciskakay@gmail.com   About Raphi: Raphi Fulcher is a man on a mission, a soldier, or a “soulja,” if you will, in the army of Hashem. So intent is he on spreading his message of acceptance and brotherhood through rap and hip hop music, that he performs under the name Hebro, a Fulcher-ism that declares his intent to use his artistic abilities to better the world as he serves in the ranks of God's military. The youngest of six children born to African-American parents who converted to Judaism 43 years ago under the guidance of Rabbi J.J. Hecht, the then-assistant to the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Fulcher hails from a family of gifted vocalists. The singer, songwriter, rapper and producer lived in Crown Heights until he was four and spent his formative years in North Carolina, St. Louis and Israel. It was during his time as a student at Queens College that Fulcher, whose full name is Raphael Ohr Chayim, discovered his gift for singing publicly. “I was on the board at Chabad of Queens College and we staged musical events. I found that I had a deep passion for live performance,” Fulcher told The Jewish Link. After spending a Lag B'omer at the Chevra Ahavas Yisroel synagogue, Fulcher found himself falling in love with Crown Heights and he spent the next five years there, enjoying the unique warmth of the community and honing his musical voice. Deeply enamored with rap, hip hop, reggae and R&B music, Fulcher decided that the time had come to bring those genres to Jewish audiences, albeit with all new lyrics. “Just the music and the rhythm are very powerful and could resonate with a lot of people if we had positive, uplifting content,” said Fulcher, who previously performed under the name Hebro. “I kept imagining how powerful it would be if I added a real element that would allow listeners to vibe out to the rhythm, with lyrics that have meaning and purpose. I don't think you can deny that it is Jewish music.” Having stretched his musical wings on stage with Matisyahu, Nissim Black, Moshav Band, Lipa Schmeltzer, Zusha and others, Fulcher decided three years ago that it was time to share his God given gifts with the world in a debut EP titled Genesis. “It is an album that is inspired by Tehillim, by King David's work,” said Fulcher. “When I imagine David Hamelech performing during his life, I imagine that his music had rhythm and spirit and with all due respect, I don't think it sounded like the typical 'Jewish' music we hear today in the orthodox world” Genesis, featuring seven original compositions, will be released on March 17th, Rosh Chodesh Nissan. Fulcher is looking forward to sharing his music at a release party taking place at The Loft and Rooftop at 83 Essex Street on Manhattan's Lower East Side of Manhattan which will also feature up and coming talents Izzy Gilden, DJ Kamilly, Simple Man and others. His soon to be released Souljass music video, featuring one of the tracks on the EP, tells the story of Cain and Hevel, which Fulcher sees as the start of baseless hatred in the world. “I want to shed light on being fearful of what we don't control or understand,” said Fulcher. “There is a message there in Cain's conversation with Hashem, when he says he doesn't know where his brother is. If we focused on the other person, if we were conscious of one another, and were tolerant of each other, we would be able to bring about the ultimate redemption.” Still, Fulcher, a resident of the Wesley Hills section of Monsey, is subtle with his messaging. “I consider myself a chasid of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and his teachings and his mission,” said Fulcher. “That is what I wanted to do with this album of songs about redemption and while I may not mention that concept by name, it is there in broader terms and in a way that will allow more people to enjoy the music.” With an edgy style that is simultaneously youthful and appealing, Fulcher is a crossover artist who can appeal to the masses, but also has his priorities straight. Passionate about his music, he is even more dedicated to his religious observance. As someone with close ties to Chabad, Fulcher feels strongly about his own obligation to improve the lives of others. “My ultimate mission with my music is to do my part to bring redemption,” explained Fulcher. “I consider this to be my shlichut and I believe each of us has to bring the world to a higher state of perfection by doing chesed, by reaching out and not just harboring light, but shining light out onto the world.” Having been the only African-American student in the yeshivos he attended since first grade wasn't always easy, admitted Fulcher, but it was an experience that prepared him for his future. “It was challenging for myself and for my peers,” said Fulcher. “It was a reality that none of them had ever dealt with before and it was new for them. Still, growing up as an African-American Jew in a white Orthodox Jewish world gave me the experience to understand the potential of breaking down the barriers of fear and difference while creating an opportunity for growth. B'nei Yisrael come in all shapes and colors and sizes and the sooner we can all handle that the sooner we will all be b'simcha.”

The Rebbe advises continuing Torah study during the summer, noting its power to bring blessing and healing. He encourages daily Tehillim, checking mezuzot, and reassures that since hatavat chalom was recited, the past dream is good and needs no further thought. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5504

The Rebbe clarifies that righteous non-Jews have souls from the good in Kelipat Noga, not from complete impurity, and cites sources on converts. He advises that if one has an older brother, he should request full permission before pursuing a match. He concludes with encouragement to maintain daily study in Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5492

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

The Rebbe explains that refraining from Torah study due to illness is like refusing medicine because one is sick. Torah itself brings healing, and one must persist in learning—at least the daily portions of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya. The Rebbe encourages optimism in recovery and expresses hope for good news, both spiritually and physically. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5487

Welcome to Daily Bitachon. We are now getting back to the 'meat and potatoes' of regular topic Bitachon, after our hiatus for lessons from the Hagada Shel Pesach . Rabbenu Yonah, on Mishleh chapter 3, tells us that an important facet of Bitachon is knowing that a human being has no impact on you. . No human being can help you, and no human being can harm you, Zulati yigzor Hashem / unless Hashem makes that decree . He explains that this is what Arur hagever asher yivtach ba'adam / Cursed is the one that relies on a person means ; he thinks that people can do things for him . Another pasuk in Yirmiyah says chidlu lachem min ha'adam / Refrain from people" . This means refrain from relying on people . One has to know that in truth, a human being lacks any ability to harm him . He quotes many familiar pesukim, such as one from Hallel, which says Hashem li lo ira ma ya'aseh li adam , David Hamelech is saying, " Hashem is with me, I'm not afraid what people are going to do" . When a problem comes, a person should realize that everything is in the hands of Hashem . Pnei levavo muadot el Hashem / The face of his heart should be focused on God. Whenever there's a problem, one should focus on God; not on the one that's hitting him, but on the One that is ultimately in charge . He cites a pasuk in Tehillim which has an important lesson, not just for our daily bitachon, but also for one of the most pivotal times of the year . . He quotes the pasuk , Hinei k'einei avadim el yad Adonehem / Our eyes are to You, God like a slave is to his master," and he uses this pasuk as a description of bitachon . The eyes of the slave are towards his master b ecause, as the Hovot Halevavot says in Shaar HaBitachon, a baal bitachon must feel like a servant who is controlled by his master; that no one can impact him but his master . Rabbenu Yonah explains that David Hamelech is saying, " Our eyes are on You God, like a servant is on his master. In a similar vein, the Hovot Halevavot explains why Shaar HaBitachon/Gate of Reliance on Hashem comes after Shaar Avodat Elohim/ Gate of Serving Hashem) . This is because serving Hashem is connected to bitachon, a servant has an obligation to rely on his master because only his master can take care of him . . This is the pasuk of Hinei k'einei avadim el yad Adonehem . As we've said many times, the Anshei Knesset HaGedolah, who wrote our tefillot , based the text of the tefilot on pesukim . Rav Wolbe used to say that the siddur is the Torah Sheba'al Peh/ the Oral Law. And Oral Law is always based on the Written Law. . After we blow the shofar, we say Hayom harat olam / Today is the birth of the world, Hayom ya'amid bamishpat/ Today is the day that God judges kol yetzurei olam/all the creations, And He treats them, Im kevanim im ka'avadim / either like children or like servants Im kevanim / if we're children, then, rachameinu k'rachem av al banim / have mercy, like a father on a child. - There is a level of Jewish people called, Banim atem l'Hashem Elokeichem / We act like children, He treats us like children- But what about Im ka'avadim ? What if we're like servants , which means we don't have that father-son relationship in a way that we're deserving of the mercy of God? What do we do then? The answer is, Enenu lecha teluyot / Our eyes are towards You, Ad shetechoneinu / Until You have chen on us, matnat chinam, v'totzi la'or mishpateinu / and we're going to have a judgment that is a shining judgment" And this, Im ka'avadim eineinu lecha teluyot / Our eyes are on You, comes from this pasuk in Tehillim: k'eneh avadim el yad adoneihem / Like servants are looking to their master " . This means that one of the techniques that we have to be successful in Rosh Hashanah judgment, or any judgment for that matter, is to have bitachon and realize that no matter what happens, ultimately, no one can harm us and no one can help us. We have to rely on Hashem . That is supposed to be our attitude in any trying situation . k'eneh avadim el Yad adoneihem / Like servants have their eyes on their master .

The story is told that on one Erev Rosh Hashanah, Rav Bunim of Peshischa came to his Rebbe, the Chozeh of Lublin, to receive a berachah. However, he noticed that the Chozeh was hesitant. At the time, Rav Bunim had a successful business, but the Chozeh revealed to him that he had seen a decree in Heaven that during the coming year, Rav Bunim would lose all of his parnassah. On Yom Kippur, Rav Bunim poured out his heart in tefillah, with sincere tears and deep emotion. Though his business later faced serious challenges and was nearly shut down, not only was it saved — his parnassah actually doubled. When Rav Bunim returned to the Chozeh on Erev Pesach, the Rebbe greeted him warmly and told him he knew with certainty that Rav Bunim's tefillah on Yom Kippur had shaken the heavens and changed the decree from hardship to great blessing. This story reminds us that our tefillot can do wonders, but only if we truly believe in their power. The Nefesh Shimshon explains that when Avraham Avinu established the tefillah of Shacharit, he didn't merely create a morning prayer; he infused it with his own spiritual energy and power. Every time we pray Shacharit, we do so with the merit and spiritual momentum of Avraham Avinu behind us. The same is true for Yitzchak Avinu, who established Minchah, and Yaakov Avinu, who established Arbit. These tefillot were not only composed — they were charged with the deepest essence of the Avot, and that strength continues to support our prayers today. Similarly, every time a person opens a Tehillim, they are not just reading words on a page — they are connecting to the neshama of David HaMelech. Each word of Tehillim is imbued with his spiritual strength, his longing, his struggles, and his closeness to Hashem. Hashem is already close to us, waiting to hear our every word. But now we understand that our tefillot are not coming from us alone — they are carried by the koach of those who established them. Chazal teach us that there is special power in a tefillah that comes with kavanah and tears. When we realize just how valuable our prayers are and how much they can accomplish, we gain new strength and motivation to pray with deeper emotion and sincerity. One woman shared her personal experience: she had been struggling with shidduchim for years. The suggestions that came her way were few and far between, and none of them seemed right. Still, she prayed daily to Hashem to send her the right zivug. What kept her emotionally afloat was the fact that she had good friends that she was close to, and then one day out of nowhere, one of her closest friends who had gotten married told her she would no longer be able to continue their relationship. This news was devastating to her. She spoke to this friend every day. She was her lifeline of support. Shortly afterward, she traveled to Eretz Yisrael. Before returning home, she went to the Kotel to pray. Instead of complaining and bemoaning her fate, she decided to channel all of her pain and emotion into the most heartfelt tefillah. She cried to Hashem for her zivug and in her words, it was the most powerful tefillah she had ever made. The very next day, upon returning home, she received a call from a shadchan with a new suggestion — the man she would soon marry. These stories illustrate that tefillah has the power to change everything. It is up to us to believe that Hashem is listening, and that every word we say matters. We are never alone. When we pray with heart and connect genuinely to Hashem, we can draw down brachot that are far beyond anything we could expect. As the pasuk says: קָרוֹב ה' לְכָל־קֹרְאָיו לְכֹל אֲשֶׁר יִקְרָאֻהוּ בֶאֱמֶת (Tehillim 145:18) Let us strengthen ourselves to approach tefillah not as a routine, but as a living bridge to the Ribbono Shel Olam — a moment to pour out our soul, to draw from the merit of the Avot and tzaddikim, and to unlock the gates of blessing with every sincere word we say.

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

How did David cope with the many trials described in his previous psalms? What tactic did he employ to alter his perception of all his troubles? The key lies in this beautiful song. We will also learn something about praise that may shock you! For more teachings by Grant Luton (and to print the notes), visit our website: https://www.TorahTodayMinistries.org And when you visit, be sure to subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter, which will keep you up to date with news, photos, and upcoming events at Torah Today Ministries.

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

The Rebbe directs the writer to study the kuntreisim Toras HaChassidus and Limud Toras HaChassidus for a clear explanation of the distinction between Mussar and Chassidus. He explains that the soul, though spiritual, becomes connected to physicality through the body, which can even obscure the G-dly soul. He encourages the regular study of Chitas (Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya). https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5474

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

Tehillim 132: קומה ה' למנוחתך (conclusion), by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom When was Psalm 132 composed - and why? In this conclusion of a two-part shiur, we examine the longest of the שירי המעלה - Psalm 132. This psalm, evidently devoted to the city of Yerushalayim and the Divine choice of both the place and the Davidic line, is especially appropriate as we prepare to celebrate the 58th anniversary of the reunification of Yerushalayim under Jewish sovereignty. Noting that the psalm speaks in different voices, we note numerous related texts in Tanakh that may have either been inspired by, or been the inspiration for our psalm. קומה ה' למנוחתך, אתה וארון עוזך. And, indeed, may we soon see a fulfillment of the promise ואויביו אלביש בשת, ועליו יציץ נזרו.

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Chof-Hey Iyar (18:35)

Tehillim 132: קומה ה' למנוחתך, by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom What was the occasion that motivated the composition of Psalm 132? A special shiur as we prepare for Yom Yerushalayim. In this first part of a two-part shiur, we examine the longest of the שירי המעלה - Psalm 132. This psalm, evidently devoted to the city of Yerushalayim and the Divine choice of both the place and the Davidic line, is especially appropriate as we prepare to celebrate the 58th anniversary of the reunification of Yerushalayim under Jewish sovereignty. Noting that the psalm speaks in different voices, we note numerous related texts in Tanakh that may have either been inspired by, or been the inspiration for our psalm. קומה ה' למנוחתך, אתה וארון עוזך. And, indeed, may we soon see a fulfillment of the promise ואויביו אלביש בשת, ועליו יציץ נזרו. Source sheet >>

The previous psalm (Psalm 63) described how David dealt with physical enemies who were out to kill him. But in this psalm, David addresses the issue of hidden and anonymous spiritual enemies. A close study of this psalm can be a great boost to one's faith and peace. For more teachings by Grant Luton (and to print the notes), visit our website: https://www.TorahTodayMinistries.org And when you visit, be sure to subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter, which will keep you up to date with news, photos, and upcoming events at Torah Today Ministries.

David HaMelech tells us in Tehillim, וצדקתך ירננו , which the Sha'arei Chaim explains to mean that even when we face difficulties, we are meant to respond by singing to Hashem. How is that possible? The pesukim before reveal the secret: דור לדור ישבח מעשיך —each generation should relate to the next the chesed they have seen from Hashem in their lives. ודברי נפלאותיך אשיחה —David HaMelech would constantly speak, even in everyday conversation, about the wonders of Hashem. וגדולתך אספרנה —he would speak of the endless greatness and kindness Hashem bestows upon the world. זכר רב טובך יביעו —our mouths should overflow with praise for Hashem's goodness like a spring that never runs dry. If a person constantly talks about Hashem's kindness, then when something happens that appears negative, it won't shake him. He'll already be fortified with the understanding that Hashem only does good. The Midrash says that from the day Hashem created the world, no one sang shirah until Bnei Yisrael sang אז ישיר at Keri'at Yam Suf. The Sfat Emet asks: we know Adam HaRishon sang shirah— מזמור שיר ליום השבת —as did others. What does it mean that no one sang until Az Yashir? He explains that until that moment, people only sang about the salvation after it came. But at Yam Suf, Bnei Yisrael reached a higher level—they sang about the difficulties too, because they saw that even the hardships were part of Hashem's goodness. אמר אויב ארדף אשיג —they sang about Pharaoh chasing them. מי כמוך באלים ה׳ —they declared; Who is like You among the mighty, Hashem? Chazal explain on this phrase: מי כמוך באלמים ה׳ —Who is like You, Hashem, who remains silent when the worst seems to be happening? How could Hashem be silent when the enemy entered the Beit HaMikdash to destroy it? When Titus HaRasha stabbed the parochet and blood came pouring out? When the resha'im tormented His beloved people in Mitzrayim and, centuries later, in Nazi Germany? At Yam Suf, Bnei Yisrael understood the greatness of Hashem: that He could remain silent because only He saw the ultimate good in every moment. Even the most painful events, seemingly caused by human actions, were all orchestrated by Hashem for our benefit. In the Haggadah, we say: לבן ביקש לעקור את הכל -וירד מצרימה . The mefarshim ask, what's the connection between Lavan wanting to destroy Yaakov and the descent to Mitzrayim? They explain that Lavan's switching of Rachel for Leah led to the shevatim being born from different mothers. Rachel, being the more beloved wife, caused the brothers to feel resentment toward her son, Yosef. That led to Yosef being sold—and eventually to the entire family descending to Egypt. This wasn't really Lavan's doing. Hashem had planned it from the time He told Avraham Avinu that his children would be strangers in a land not their own. Nothing is random. People are not in control—only Hashem is. And He does everything for our good. The more we speak about His hashgachah, His chesed, and His love for us, the more these truths will sink into our hearts. Then, when difficulties arise, we'll have the strength to sing even through the pain. In the future, Hashem will reveal to us all the good behind every event. But if we can trust Him now—before the light shines through—and sing in the darkness, we will reach the highest spiritual levels.

Today's Talmud pages, Shevuot 15 and 16, raise a difficult challenge, claiming the one must not recite any incantations in an effort to heal the sick. Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin joins us to explain why this prohibition does not mean we should stop reciting Psalms for the sick. In what way is each of us his or her own walking, living prayer? Listen and find out.

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

A man once informed the Chazon Ish that a plane with 70 passengers had crashed and there were no survivors, לא עלינו . He proceeded to tell the rabbi the cause of the crash. The people who were there were eager to hear what the Chazon Ish would say about the incident—to hear the Torah perspective and gain the proper outlook on such a terrible tragedy. The Chazon Ish responded that this is not the way the story should be told. The correct way to describe it is like this: The Creator of the world decreed that 70 individuals were to end their lives on that day. And so, He gathered them all onto one plane. There was one man who was not included in that decree, and so Hashem made him miss the flight. There was someone else who hadn't planned to fly that day, but when he heard that there was a free seat, he joined the flight—not because of bad luck, but because it had been decreed for him to pass away that day. Whether an event happens or does not happen depends solely on the word of Hashem. Human actions are merely the vehicles that bring about the plan that Hashem has already set in motion. This is pure אמונה . A person must internalize that causes are not what determine events. First comes the decree of Hashem, and only afterward come the apparent causes. If someone is meant to have a certain amount of money, it is not his actions that produce the result—it is the decree of Hashem that brings it about. That being said, a person should know he never has to do anything shady to receive what is meant for him. Hashem has infinite ways of giving a person פרנסה , and when someone is presented with an opportunity to earn it through lying or cheating, it is a test for him to overcome. He will never lose by doing what is right, and although he may not see immediate benefit, that's all part of the test. Those who act with falsehood may see immediate gains from their actions, but if the money they earned was truly meant for them, they would have received it in a Kosher way. And if it wasn't meant for them, they will ultimately lose it. A man told me he asked his sons if they wanted to contribute money to a betting pool on a certain sporting event. Most of them said yes, but one of them—who is a rabbi—said he didn't feel comfortable betting on a sporting event and declined. The next day, the four who participated won a total of $12,000 and divided it equally, giving each person $3,000. One of the siblings said to the rabbi that he felt bad the rabbi didn't join, because he could have won a lot of money. The very next day, the rabbi's name was called in an auction at his children's Yeshiva, and he won a gift certificate worth $3,500. He saw clearly that if he is meant to earn money, Hashem has infinite ways of giving it to him. The more Emunah a person has, the more confident he becomes that Hashem is involved in every moment of his life. Sometimes it feels like Hashem is not there—but that is exactly when we need to use our Emunah the most, and understand that He is with us, listening to every word we say and watching every action we take. A woman told me she was going through a difficult time and decided to open her Tehillim and start reading from the beginning. When she reached near the end of פרק ס״ו (chapter 66), she lifted her eyes and wondered if Hashem was really listening to herTehillim. She then looked back down into the book and, astonishingly, the next words were: אכן שמע אלוקים, הקשיב בקול תפלתי In truth, Hashem has heard; He has paid attention to the sound of my prayer. Exactly what she had been wondering was answered in the very next line she was about to read. She felt so comforted, sensing the closeness of Hashem. And although she was in a difficult time, that moment gave her the strength to persevere. Hashem is in control of every last thing that happens at every moment of every day. It is up to us to recognize that and act accordingly.

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

Insights and comments could be sent to Jonathan@thepararshapodcast.comThey will be addressed during our daily classes to enhance the discussion.For Parasha & Navi Special Classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-parasha-podcast/id1525436805Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/6w6PD5kC5vi9qqJ8VDU0JV?si=939c0262383e4c1cFor Navi classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-navi-podcast/id1549133051Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/2WxjXKNXllLVr9p1enQIc8?si=71de5d3ff961455dFor Tehillim classes, please visit:Apple podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tehillim-podcast/id1588773372Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/show/79ooU0LqW7FF8Zh5YfJAkp?si=a33c064f60374646For Ketuvim classes, Please visit:Apple Podcast link:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ketuvim-podcast/id1734069288Spotify link:https://open.spotify.com/episode/5pMd7hhOBAb1Oy2RhWMX0H?si=8da277c698b94890 #Parasha #Navi #Torah #Bible #Wisdom #psalms #songs #Tehillim

If you knew that dangerous men were hunting you to kill you, what would you pray for? Protection? Rescue? Superpowers? David found himself in exactly this predicament but prayed for none of these things. What did he pray for? Join us as we explore this short but beautiful and inspiring psalm together. For more teachings by Grant Luton (and to print the notes), visit our website: https://www.TorahTodayMinistries.org And when you visit, be sure to subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter, which will keep you up to date with news, photos, and upcoming events at Torah Today Ministries.

The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 42:3) writes that if one keeps his Tefillin in a bag which is exclusively designated for Tefillin, then once he placed his Tefillin in the bag, he may not then use the bag to keep money inside it. The bag at that point becomes a "Tashmish Kedusha" – an article designated for the purpose of a sacred article – and thus may not be used for money. The Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan of Radin, 1839-1933) clarifies that the Shulhan Aruch mentions money only as a common example, and in truth, this Halacha applies to all items which are not sacred like Tefillin. Even things which are used for a Misva – such as a Siddur or Tehillim – may not be placed in the bag designated for Tefillin. Likewise, one may not keep in this bag the mirror he uses to help position the Tefillin on his head, or the marker he uses to paint his Tefillin. Many people keep their small Tefillin bag in a larger bag, which is used also for their Tallit and Siddur. Since this larger bag is not designated exclusively for Tefillin, it may be used for other items, even items which are not used for a Misva, such as money. This Halacha is discussed by Hacham David Yosef (contemporary) in his Halacha Berura (vol. 3, p. 301; listen to audio recording for precise citation). Summary: A bag which is designated exclusively for Tefillin may not be used to hold anything else, even a Siddur. However, if one keeps his Tefillin bag in a larger bag together with his Tallit and Siddur, then since the larger bag is not designated exclusively for Tefillin, he may keep anything else – even money – in that larger bag.

It is forbidden to enter a cemetery, or to come within four Amot of a grave, while one's Sisit are exposed or while wearing Tefillin. Public Misva observance in close proximity to a grave is an insult to the deceased, as it appears as though one taunts the deceased who no longer has the opportunity to perform Misvot. One is therefore not permitted to display his Sisit or wear Tefillin in a cemetery or near a grave. Likewise, it is forbidden to study Torah or pray within four Amot of a grave. One may, however, speak words of Torah or Hit'orerut (religious inspiration), or recite Tehillim, near the grave for the purpose of bringing merit to the deceased's soul. Sephardic custom similarly allows reciting Kaddish for the deceased by his grave. One must conduct himself with respect and decorum in a cemetery. Frivolity and laughter are forbidden in a cemetery. Halacha also forbids using the cemetery in a disrespectful manner, such as by bringing animals to graze there, or running an irrigation system through it. One may not eat or drink in a cemetery, even if his intention is to recite Berachot to benefit the soul of the deceased, as this is disrespectful. Smoking in a cemetery is likewise forbidden. One may not sit or step on a grave. A number of sources (Eliyahu Rabba 224:7, Kaf Ha'haim Sofer – Orah Haim 224:41) record the practice to place a small stone or piece of grass on the grave before leaving the cemetery, as an indication of, or testament to, one's visit to the grave. Others, however, claim that one specifically should not place anything on a grave, as this is disrespectful. This was the custom of the Kabbalist Rabbi Sulman Musafi. Summary: It is forbidden to publicly perform Misvot in a cemetery, but one may speak words of Torah or recite Tehillim in a cemetery to benefit the deceased's soul. One must conduct himself respectfully and reverently in a cemetery; joking, eating, drinking and smoking are forbidden.

Yom HaAtzmaut | Psalm 126: BeShuv Hashem et Shivat Tzion, by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom Why are we described as "like dreamers" upon the return to ציון?  Since those miraculous days of 1948, there have been several proposals to amend the National Anthem with the recitation of Psalm 126 - בשוב ה' את שיבת ציון; famously, Menachem Begin read the entire Psalm in the Rose Garden before signing the Camp David Accords in 1979. The sense of seeing ancient prophecies fulfilled in our day and before our eyes is a powerful one, and this psalm uniquely captures that feeling of הגדיל ה' לעשות עמנו. We examine the psalm, first discussing the issue of authorship and period of the composition of Tehillim and then the method used to study Biblical poetry, specifically Tehillim. Barukh Hashem, in our day, we are experiencing the רינה of the harvesters, sadly mixed with the דמעה of the sowers. Source sheet >>