SoulWords- Full Library: Recent Episodes
Rabbi Shais Taub
Rabbi Shais Taub has delivered Torah lectures and classes to audiences on six continents. He writes a popular weekly column in Ami Magazine and is the author of the bestselling book, G-d of Our Understanding: Jewish Spirituality and Recovery from Addiction as well as several groundbreaking works on Tanya including: the Tanya Map teaching tool, the Soul Maps curriculum, and the audio series Mapping the Tanya. He currently serves as scholar-in-residence at Chabad of the Five Towns in Cedarhurst, NY. His lectures and classes may be found on SoulWords.org.
The signs of a kosher animal—split hooves and chewing the cud—represent the spiritual balance and continual self-examination necessary to elevate one’s involvement with the physical world. The King’s accessibility in Elul is not permission to remain comfortably “in the field,” but an invitation and empowerment to improve. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Re'eh in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/3ec000d...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1l8nh...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
In accordance with the Rebbe’s request that gatherings be held on his father’s yahrzeit to study his teachings, this Chof Av farbrengen explores the life and Torah of Harav Levi Yitzchok Schneerson—from his heroic leadership under Soviet persecution to newly revealed documents surrounding a 1937 show trial. At its center is a remarkable letter thanking his son, the Rebbe, for a pair of shoes, which becomes a profound lesson about engaging with, elevating, and ultimately overcoming a hostile world.
Presented by Rabbi Shais Taub of SoulWords and Rabbi Elkanah Shmotkin of Jewish Educational Media.
📖 Study Companion Download: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18w_C...
💰 Donate to Keren Levi Yitzchak: https://KerenLeviYitzchak.org
Just as recognizing the symptoms of an illness brings us halfway to the cure, understanding the stages that lead to exile enables us to begin bringing about redemption.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/e15f4f3...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g5YO...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The cities of refuge teach that Torah provides a clear path to safety and that every Jew must become a living signpost, actively guiding others toward Torah even when the results of those efforts remain unseen. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Va'eschanan in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/d27b235...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HVC9...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
Just as Parshas Devarim marks the Jewish people's descent from the miraculous existence of the wilderness into ordinary life in the Land, Shabbos Chazon teaches that every descent into physicality is ultimately for the sake of a greater ascent and a more permanent dwelling place for Hashem. The extraordinary joy of Shabbos Chazon reflects the hidden reality that the destruction of the Beis HaMikdash is itself part of the process that leads to the eternal redemption, where every apparent loss ultimately produces an even greater gain. Like a teacher who momentarily withdraws from a student in order to grasp an even deeper insight to share, Hashem's seeming concealment during exile is itself an expression of His deepest love, calling us to strengthen our yearning for Him until the final redemption. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Devarim in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/4c9ee50...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iT2g...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The 42 wilderness journeys represent the continuous human obligation to treat yesterday's spiritual plateaus as today's limitations and to constantly move forward, whether climbing to higher spiritual rungs or breaking out of a low state with a single step.This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Matos-Masei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/08c4f08...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13XsO...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
Sometimes leadership remains silent because a particular individual is destined to step forward and do something great, as Pinchas did. Moments of spiritual crisis demand that we leave our comfort zones and speak heartfelt words that awaken another Jew's soul without endless calculations, just as Pinchas acted without waiting for explicit sanction from the court. Just as each tribe received its portion of Eretz Yisroel randomly by lottery, every Jew is assigned a unique spiritual mission that is not based on what seems logically suited to them, but on Hashem's purpose for their soul. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Pinchas in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/4688075...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1skrM...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The crouching stance of the lion in Bilaam's prophecy demonstrates that even when subjected to the physical constraints of exile, the Jewish people maintain an untamed, independent spiritual nature that is periodically reinforced by unmistakable, nature-shattering miracles. The deceptive spiritual authority claimed by the negative forces of Bilaam and Amalek is completely neutralized when a person internalizes a parallel matrix of active awe and love of Hashem. The psychological argument from Laban that one must temporarily disconnect from G-d and compromise spiritual values to achieve material career success is defeated by implementing a spiritual guardrail, which transforms mundane daily work into a holy ascent rooted in the absolute surrender of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Balak in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/1a12943...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AIlG...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The three wilderness miracles correspond to three modes of spiritual influence—internalized growth, transcendent empowerment, and accessible transmission—and teach that every Jew carries a spark of Moshe, empowering us to take responsibility for the spiritual wellbeing of others. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Chukas in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/fd75526...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kOIk...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The priestly gifts teach that holiness must receive the first and finest portions of our lives, and when we dedicate our best time, energy, and resources to Hashem rather than our leftovers, we create a vessel for both spiritual and material blessing. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Shlach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.
📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/7b69fcf...
📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lKFG...
📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
True Jewish leadership, exemplified by Moshe and Yehoshua, means embracing and uplifting every Jew, even when doing so requires self-sacrifice. Tzitzis must be attached to a tallis because while the tzitzis represent the individual mitzvos, the tallis represents their transcendent source, teaching that we cannot fully grasp the true nature of the mitzvos and must therefore observe them in a way that transcends logic, thereby eliciting blessings from Hashem that transcend nature. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Shlach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/a71d528... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_e7J... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The Menorah reflects both the diversity and unity of the Jewish people—many distinct paths joined in a single mission to radiate divine light and revealed love into the world. From the laws of the Menorah we learn that every Jew has a role in igniting the flame of other Jews, but the method must remain faithful to the Rebbe’s directive and rooted in the highest standards of Pnimiyus HaTorah. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Behaaloscha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/18479c1... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NqEO... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
The Sotah serves as the archetype for understanding the soul’s relationship with Hashem: even when there is distance or straying, the bond itself remains unbroken, and through teshuvah the rupture can become the source of even deeper connection. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Naso in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/543b82a... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13l-D... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
ה, a 47-year-old mother of nine children who spent her life helping others. Please open your heart to this urgent cause. 100% goes directly to the family: https://charidy.com/reiterfamilyfund/..📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/12c2b1b... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1V5Ov... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf...
ה, a 47-year-old mother of nine children who spent her life helping others. Please open your heart to this urgent cause. 100% goes directly to the family: https://charidy.com/reiterfamilyfund/..
Counting reveals the paradox that in holiness, quantity itself leads to quality. Even in a spiritual wilderness, we are meant to live a fully holy life—especially in the home and in the earliest stages of a child’s education. True Jewish unity means uniting around Torah and mitzvos. Ahavas Yisrael is described on three levels—by the Baal Shem Tov, the Maggid, and the Alter Rebbe—each revealing a deeper way to love another Jew. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bechukosai in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/9387f91... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ov0v... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf..
Parshas Bechukosai contains a rebuke of seemingly harsh curses which are actually the loftiest Divine blessings in a hidden form; similarly, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, whose yahrzeit is Lag B’Omer, possesses the unique power through the inner dimension of Torah to decode this reality and reveal that hidden good as tangible, physical blessings in this world.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/cba2f56... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NWY2...https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EkFI... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Shmita teaches us that Torah is not about escaping the physical world, but sanctifying it so completely that even our engagement with nature becomes an act of transcendence. Har Sinai shows us that true greatness requires the paradox of standing tall with absolute confidence while remaining completely humble before Hashem. The deepest form of avodah is not serving Hashem for personal growth, reward, or even spiritual refinement—but simply because His will is your will. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Behar in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/838489c... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eUAn... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The month of Iyar is uniquely defined by the mitzvah of counting the Omer, which creates a state of total alignment where every day becomes equally holy. Spiritual growth moves through three phases—initial rescue from above (Nissan), active refinement of the animal soul’s passions (Iyar), and ultimate integration with the Divine (Sivan). The halachic nature of counting Sefira reveals that even if our current efforts feel limited, they possess the unique power to build the reality of the future redemption. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Emor in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/538877d... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eMXb... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Kedusha means living with a distinct Jewish identity in every aspect of life, transforming the mundane into a dwelling place for Hashem. True readiness for Moshiach comes from sanctifying even the permissible, reaching a deeper bittul that reveals the essence of the soul and of Hashem. Torah endures only when it is shared—helping others spiritually both sustains your own growth and fulfills your unique mission. In the “upside-down world,” those we uplift may be our greatest merit, revealing that every act of influence carries eternal reward. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Kedoshim in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/42cfa10... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1D00N... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The Torah’s command to “make a safeguard for My safeguards” teaches that protective boundaries are not additions to Torah but part of its design—provided they are kept with clarity, distinguishing between obligation and voluntary devotion in a world that requires such protection. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Acharei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/8f21261... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1m67S... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Elazar ben Azarya leads us to appreciate how past reincarnations can help us practically. The proximity of the chacham and rasha shows us the importance of bringing every Jew close. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Pesach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/8d8c854... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qq__... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
occurrences to be seen as purposeful, miraculous messages of hidden good. Hashem deliberately leaves aspects of creation and our personal lives incomplete to teach us that true resolution—both personal and national—comes through bitachon rather than human effort. Anyone with any measure of influence is called upon to ensure that every Jew they can reach is provided with round, handmade Shmura Matzah to bolster their faith and health for the entire year. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Metzora in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/31db564... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MRgG... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Nissan represents a mode of serving Hashem that draws down the infinite beyond nature, where joy and divine choice override the limits of cause and effect. The Jewish soul is essentially bound to Hashem Himself, and expresses that bond by transforming the world through mitzvos in a way that brings lasting redemption. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Tazria in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/f086726... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1pwlq... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
In this famous letter to Israeli President Yitzchak Ben-Tzvi, the Rebbe explains that wealth and influence are divinely entrusted responsibilities, obligating one to actively strengthen Torah and Jewish identity. Beyond this, the letter offers a rare personal glimpse, as the Rebbe shares his lifelong vision of redemption and explains why he avoids the title “president,” reflecting his deep, authentic sensitivity to the pain of the Jewish people in exile.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-30.pdf
s Haftarah represents a state of joy that transcends intellect, serving as a model for our own connection to Hashem as we approach the era of Moshiach. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Shemini in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/f100048... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KPAo... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The Rebbe acknowledges the writer’s improved health but challenges his confusion about priorities. Despite clear guidance, he is misreading his situation and considering reducing his involvement in Chabad. The Rebbe insists his true purpose is to focus on spiritual work in his current place, not pursue distracting alternatives for livelihood. Parnassah will follow with less struggle, while avoiding this path only adds unnecessary complications and concealment.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-29.pdf
s practice of fasting, explaining that Chassidus does not promote afflicting the body. True avodah is refining the animal soul—through restraint in behavior, speech, and interpersonal conduct—without harming one’s health, thereby preserving strength for Torah and mitzvos.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-27-28.pdf
s concerns about balancing outreach with his own son’s education, the Rebbe emphasizes that fulfilling the mitzvah of influencing others will not harm his child’s chinuch—on the contrary, it will enhance it through the principle of mitzvah goreres mitzvah.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-26.pdf
Pesach is supposed to be a time of freedom—but for many parents raising sensitive or easily overwhelmed children, it can feel like anything but. In this webinar, Rabbi Shais Taub and Dr. Ilyssa Bass address the real challenges of preparing for Pesach with a “complex child”—kids who feel things more intensely, struggle with transitions, and can become overwhelmed by the demands of Yom Tov. No unrealistic expectations. No “perfect child” fantasy. Just practical clarity for a calmer, more manageable Pesach. Rabbi Shais Taub is the creator of Soul Parenting and has guided thousands of parents with a Torah-based approach to raising children. Dr. Ilyssa Bass is a psychologist and leading expert helping Jewish families parent children with complex needs.To register for our upcoming course: https://www.drilyssabass.com/joy
The Rebbe responds regarding a Chabad-affiliated agricultural school, emphasizing that its standards and spirit must fully align with Chabad values without compromise. The institution should not lower its standards for students who do not adhere to them. However, guidance should be given pleasantly—educating and inspiring rather than rejecting. The focus should be on promoting the positive through Chassidic farbrengens, stories, and niggunim, while maintaining appropriate safeguards.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-25.pdf
One must recognize that involvement in the Rebbe’s work is a personal merit, not a favor being done. As long as one feels otherwise, no persuasion will help. Honest reflection and humility will lead to clarity, cooperation, and a more peaceful, productive path.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-24.pdf
In response to a letter proposing that identifying certain nations as lost tribes could hasten Moshiach, the Rebbe emphasizes that our direction must come from Torah and its clear guidance. Rather than pursuing speculative approaches, our focus should be on what Chazal teach—that redemption depends on teshuvah and good deeds.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-23.pdf
Jewish security is not determined by political reality but by spiritual alignment. A Jew’s passion for Yiddishkeit must remain constant—both in inspiration and in struggle. Our finite effort awakens an infinite response from above that creates real success. Redemption follows a process: preparation and purification come before transformation.This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Tzav in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/2279492... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DyF9... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The Rebbe writes to Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Small, acknowledging his longstanding connection to Chabad and asking him to support relief efforts for Sephardic Jews in crisis. Beyond the immediate need, the Rebbe emphasizes a broader principle: in matters of ahavas Yisrael, there is no concern for competition—on the contrary, one should welcome and encourage others to join and even expand the work.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-22.pdf
The first letter addresses a man overwhelmed by overthinking. The Rebbe urges him to stop analyzing his inner state and instead live simply: care for the body, act with sincerity, and begin without overplanning. The second letter teaches that how we look at others shapes them—seeing with a generous eye draws out their best and brings true nachas.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-20-and-21.pdf
A young man asks if he should follow his own preference as to where to study and is gently but firmly redirected: a yeshiva bachur is not guided by personal will, but by the guidance of his teachers.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-19.pdf
In this letter, the Rebbe thanks the noted Hebrew author Eliezer Steinman for writing about Chabad Chassidus—but then adds a deeper point. To write about something truthfully, it’s not enough to understand it intellectually. You have to live it. Only when an idea becomes part of your own experience can you express it in a way that resonates most effectively with others.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-18.pdf
The Rebbe responds to a report of someone feeling spiritually discouraged. He explains that a feeling of brokenness can sometimes be constructive—like a seed that must first decay in the ground before it can grow—but only if it leads to renewed effort and increased action in Yiddishkeit. If, however, it weakens a person’s resolve and diminishes their activity, it is not healthy bitterness but harmful sadness.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-17.pdf
disguise that encourages Jews to secularize their mundane lives. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayikra in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/2279492... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BVvg6G0Daba-qxrp69wkjsBs5LSvIH_M/view📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
A man writes that he has “never seen good in his life.” The Rebbe sharply challenges this claim: a person blessed with a spouse and children walking in the path of Torah cannot call himself deprived. Ingratitude blinds one to visible blessings—and may itself block further blessing in health and livelihood. Gratitude and joy reopen the channel.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-16.pdf
In a powerful letter to an educator discouraged by what he perceived as a lack of success in influencing his students, the Rebbe explains why despair is more dangerous than being overly satisfied. Influence, especially on youth, is never wasted—even if the results only become visible years later.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-15.pdf
s second letter, the Rebbe addresses the letter writer’s discouragement about finding a match, insisting both the possibility and the path exist—and urging him not to delay pursuing a shidduch through proper intermediaries.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-13-14.pdf
When a person feels a strong urge to help the public, how can he know if the motive is truly pure? The Rebbe explains why overanalyzing intentions can actually block good action—and offers a practical test for recognizing when a thought comes from a healthy source.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-12.pdf
The Rebbe firmly redirects a writer who had become interested in mystical “segulos,” urging him to abandon such paths and return to a far more reliable source of wisdom. In the same letter, he also challenges the writer’s assumption that he lacks the ability to make a meaningful difference in helping others.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-11.pdf
When people unexpectedly come into one’s life, it may reflect a deeper spiritual purpose. Just as physical food contains a divine spark that nourishes the soul, encounters between people can be opportunities to help another Jew strengthen their connection to Yiddishkeit.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-10.pdf
The Torah repeats the details of the Mishkan to emphasize that the ultimate revelation of the Divine comes not from the spiritual plan alone, but from its realization in the physical world. Tefillah is the ladder that lifts every part of a person—even the most mundane aspects of life—into connection with the Infinite. The concealment at the end of Sefer Shemos prepares the way for the deeper revelation that begins Sefer Vayikra, teaching that darkness itself becomes the catalyst for greater light. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Pekudei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/56e967e... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Lr8D... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The Torah’s wording that work “shall be done” teaches that a Jew’s relationship to livelihood must remain external—performed with the hands but never allowed to occupy the heart and mind. The 39 melachos prohibited on Shabbos correspond to the activities used to construct the Mishkan, revealing that all human labor has the potential to transform the world into a dwelling place for Hashem. The joy of Adar reflects the ultimate transformation of darkness into light, revealing the deepest Divine presence specifically through the challenges of exile. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayekhel in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/e9589f9... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1d1z9... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The brothers reflect on the structure of Jewish mourning, the experience of saying Kaddish three times a day, and some of the strange, funny, and sometimes questionable moments that happen during Shiva.Along the way they explore the psychological wisdom built into the halachos of Aveilus, the strange transitional period of Aninus, and why communal prayer can become an unexpected tool for processing grief.They also share stories—from cryptozoology museums to Shiva pranks—and reflect on how humor and structure help people navigate difficult moments in life.
The challenges facing Jewish youth have not disappeared—they have simply changed their disguise. The Rebbe warns that modern spiritual tests can be even more dangerous precisely because they appear clothed in the language of holiness. Looking back at earlier generations, he explains why Torah study alone was not enough, why even mussar proved insufficient, and why the inner fire of Chassidus became the force that enabled young people to withstand the storm.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-09.pdf
A student writes in despair, convinced his spiritual struggles prove failure. The Rebbe rejects this conclusion entirely. Inner turmoil is not proof of weakness—it can be the very fuel for powerful spiritual awakening. The key, he explains, is to stop endless self-analysis and redirect energy into action: helping others grow in Torah and mitzvos, maintaining the discipline of yeshiva life, and becoming a living example for one’s peers. Through this, the confusion itself becomes a catalyst for growth.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-08.pdf
In the first letter of this class, the Rebbe acknowledges news about the beginning of Tomchei Temimim activities and blesses their success in spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus. He objects to delaying sharing Chabad teachings with someone until after leaving the hospital, explaining that both healing and Torah study should not be postponed.In the second letter, the Rebbe responds to a student who feels he has not changed after a year of study. The Rebbe explains that a person cannot judge himself objectively and attributes such discouragement to the yetzer hara. He insists real change must have occurred and advises practical steps to deepen spiritual growth.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-06-07.pdf
The Rebbe responds to a teacher who feels less motivated to teach a weaker class than the previous year’s students. The Rebbe explains that the opposite should be true: students with fewer abilities should inspire greater dedication, since a person’s purpose is to elevate their unique portion of the world using the talents Hashem gave them. Educating such students fulfills this mission and brings special reward.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-days-30-letters-5.pdf
The Rebbe urges a father to dedicate real time and energy to influencing his family with warmth and closeness, stressing that this is a matter of holiness and the continuity of the Jewish people. Time devoted to one’s family is not a loss, but a sanctification of time itself, bringing further blessing and holiness.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-4.pdf
The letter responds to someone who says he lacks time and focus for spiritual matters and imagines things would improve if circumstances were different. The reply challenges this, noting that if one can concentrate on intellectual matters, one can do so for the Divine soul as well. Each person is placed in a specific time and situation with the strengths needed to fulfill their mission; speculating about alternative scenarios only weakens present responsibility. Instead, one must choose action in the current reality, especially as one connected to Chassidus is empowered to do so.
The letter praises the recipient’s efforts but says they are far below what is truly possible—especially in Eretz Yisrael today. It points out that even secular leftist movements succeed because they act with passion, discipline, unity, sacrifice for the collective, and obedience to leadership—qualities Chassidus demands for holy work—while Chassidim often fail to fully harness the blessing available to them due to complacency or division.PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-2.pdf
exposes that spiritual indecision rooted in self-interest is more corrosive than open rebellion, yet even those who waver can return with redoubled strength. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Ki Sisa in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/a754ff9... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qsVE... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The Rebbe urges that in communal matters—especially chinuch—one must not rely on personal opinion or local entanglements, but listen to objective guidance from above. Just as people seek expert counsel in private affairs, how much more so must they heed the Rebbe’s direction in matters affecting the many.The Igros Kodesh are the published volumes of the Rebbe’s correspondence with people from every background and stage of life—addressing subjects ranging from profound scholarly matters to everyday concerns of health, family, finances, and emotional struggle—through which we gain a rare glimpse into how the Rebbe approached life itself, and from which we learn how to look at our own lives through that lens.For the thirty days leading up to 11 Nissan, the Rebbe’s birthday, join us each night for a live class with Rabbi Shais Taub exploring another letter from Igros Kodesh.In honor of the 2nd birthday of Yehuda Meir ben Bracha Pesha and the yarhzeit of Yehuda’s great grandmother, also on 11 Adar, Chavole bas Zev VelvelPDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-1-1.pdf
The deepest dimension of Torah, like oil, must not merely inform the mind but permeate and transform the entire person. The incense service represents the highest form of avodah—private devotion that exists solely between the soul and Hashem. The Jewish mission is not to escape the physical but to transform it into a vessel for revealed G-dliness. True joy flows from a broad consciousness that reframes physical needs as gifts and aligns them with a higher purpose. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Tetzaveh in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/7bc378c... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jekS... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The half shekel donation for the sockets of the Mishkan represent the bitul that serves as the foundation for everything else we accomplish in our lives. The capacity for folly that leads one astray must be transformed into “holy craziness,” a willingness to go beyond habit and limitation in the service of Hashem. Ufaratza means bursting past the confines of schedule and calculation that hastens the ultimate breakthrough of Mashiach. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Terumah in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/e8e6c0c... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zz4d... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Join of a 22 Shvat farbrengen in honor of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, livestreamed from the SoulWords House with Rabbi Shais Taub and special guest Rabbi Manis Friedman.
The laws of watchmen describe how different animal drives can cause a person to lose touch with their G-dly soul, with the sheep’s pull toward social conformity emerging as the most subtle and dangerous challenge. Because Hashem lends each person their abilities out of essential love, no spiritual failure or lack of standing ever removes the obligation to learn Chassidus. A free loan reveals a glimpse of the infinite within the finite, since lending to another is considered lending to Hashem Himself, whose repayment is enduring and without limit. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Mishpatim in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/70b9c7a... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Tq-q... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/..
The purpose of Matan Torah is to bring holiness into everyday life, so that ordinary activities are not separate from serving Hashem. What is considered “hidden” or “revealed” Torah depends on the needs of the generation, and in our time the teachings of Chassidus must be openly learned. Our generation’s main spiritual challenge is excess ego, and Chassidus is the remedy that breaks down that excess. Physical health and material success are not rewards for spirituality, but tools meant to give a person the strength to serve Hashem with joy. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Yisro in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/84cc5de... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SnZ6... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/..
In this powerful lecture marking the shloshim (30-day memorial) of his mother, Rivkah bas Avraham obm, Rabbi Shais Taub weaves personal memory with Torah insight in a way that is both intimate and intellectually arresting. Drawing on his mother’s life as a speech pathologist, he explores what it truly means that the human being is defined by speech—how words emerge from the deepest levels of the soul, and how language can shape identity and destiny. Along the way, he shares formative childhood stories, including how she taught him to write, the first (and last) time he ever lied to her, and the quiet moments of parenting that profoundly shaped his inner life.The lecture moves beyond biography into unexpected territory, tracing a line from Tanya and Onkelos’ description of the human soul as a “speaking spirit” to modern linguistic theory. Rabbi Taub recounts how his mother found support for Noam Chomsky’s ideas about language in the writings of the Alter Rebbe, including a clip from Rabbi Taub’s own conversation with Chomsky. He also reflects on her lifelong love of Chabad niggunim—first learned as a teenager from Zalman Schechter—and her remarkable positivity through twelve years of serious illness. Timed to Tu B’Shvat, the lecture becomes a meditation on the power of gratitude and positivity.
—students and influence—that actually reveal their potential in the world. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Beshalach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/d94df26... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KNo-... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
(a Maamar) from his father, and being designated as a successor at age 17. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bo in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/9ec5605... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dvsdLq9M21K6Iik5G3RGB458rNMOa38t/view📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
The plagues of Blood and Frogs teach us the way out of personal and collective Mitzrayim. Once Hashem announced the redemption, it became an irreversible reality—like an arrow already fired—because a good divine promise is never withdrawn, and our task is to live with the certainty that geulah is already present, awaiting revelation. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vaeira in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/25768fe... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rl1d... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
as “the children” teaches that toil is inherent to parenting. In a time of spiritual emergency, the model of Yehoshua ben Gamla teaches that preserving Torah demands mesiras nefesh from everyone, setting aside honor and comfort to educate the next generation. The Alter Rebbe teaches that by exerting ourselves in Torah study, we exchange the suffering of exile for spiritual labor. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Shmos in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/3cfeb83... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Rzy4... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Isaac—a single one of them provides more Nachas and spiritual impact than a multitude. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayechi in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/79b813d... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1krla... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Yehuda’s willingness to risk everything for Binyamin reveals that guaranteeing a Jewish child’s future requires total responsibility and self-sacrifice. Yaakov sending Yehuda ahead to establish a yeshiva in Egypt teaches that Torah infrastructure must precede all else. Yosef’s well-intentioned compromise shows that lowering Torah standards to make Judaism more palatable leads to unintended consequences. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayigash in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/5e39742... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1GSp_... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
reflects a service of pure love, choosing unnecessary spiritual excellence and true selflessness simply because that is Hashem’s will. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Mikeitz in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/f44a6a9... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zyrd... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
s wife reveals the deeper reality behind spiritual challenges. The Chanukah story reminds us of the power of educating children with zero compromises right from the very beginning. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayeishev in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/63352bb... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aU3J... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
During Yaakov’s years with Lavan, he was able to refine materiality by maintaining the proper attitude toward the physical world. The “donkey of Moshiach” represents three stages in the refinement of the physical. Why Kislev is the month of miracles and the revelation of the innermost dimensions of Torah. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayishlach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/5d7f5ae... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a9z4... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
White and share at your Yud-Tes Kislev farbrengen. Post it in your shul, school, office, or simply hand one to a friend.
Building a Jewish home requires leaving spiritual comfort zones. True success in Galus is achieved not through assimilation but through complete trust and reliance on G-d. The inner dimension of Torah makes new levels of joy accessible to all. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayeitzei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/2413dd2... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1bj9j... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
s teachings inspire people of all backgrounds to bring light, compassion, and healing into the world.
The special qualities of Yitzchak are inherited by every Jew, granting them the ability to be unintimidated by the world and to successfully integrate transcendent spirituality into time and space. This explains the deeper significance of Yitzchak going to Gan Eden before his wedding, demonstrating the necessity of spiritual integration through self-nullification. The custom for a groom to receive Rabbinic ordination before marriage reveals how the eternal foundation of a home must be based on absolute Torah law. The necessity of Yaakov taking the blessings through cunning. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Toldos in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.Happy Birthday for:Feiga Esther bas RivkahChaya Mushka bas Feiga EstherIn honor of the yahrzeit of:Chaya Feiga bas Yitzchak Yaakov HaLevidedicated by her sister📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/0e85ace... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FCvh... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
12 Pesukim for Parents is a new series in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Twelve Pesukim. In this first class, we explore the opening verse—Torah Tziva Lanu Moshe—and the Rebbe’s vision behind teaching these verses to children. This class helps parents understand what Torah Tziva truly means: conveying to our children the preciousness of Torah.Each video in this series will uncover another pasuk, offering insight into how parents can bring the Rebbe’s vision to life in their homes.
Rabbi Shais Taub is joined by Yitzchok Aharon Pinkesz, author of Kosher Astrology: A Jewish Guide to Celestial Wisdom to explore one of the most misunderstood topics in Jewish thought. Together, they discuss what astrology really means through the lens of Torah and how to distinguish kosher astrology from forbidden practices, and what role the stars and constellations play in shaping our spiritual path. You’ll even hear Rabbi Taub’s own astrological chart.
s journey highlights marriage’s sanctity when founded on Torah and mitzvos. What Avraham used his circumcision for an oath. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/25c8c4a... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16GQ1... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
s revelation provides a powerful lesson for every Jew. The lives of Avraham and Yitzchak serve as contrasting and essential paradigms for achieving our purpose in life.This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/3efa00e... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10zfh... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
Avraham’s journey of Lech Lecha describes the spiritual path of every soul; the lives of Yishmael and Yitzchak reveal two distinct paradigms for raising a Jewish child. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Lech Lecha in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/261431a... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/10UPY... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
s duty to help the spiritual welfare of all interconnected Jewish souls. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Noach in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/3427cbd... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CWNa... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
What if one idea could change the way you experience your entire year? In this sicha, the Rebbe shows how a single insight from Shabbos Bereishis transforms the way we live. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bereishis in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/84e1f8b... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18R0v... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...
In Part 3 of "High Holidays & the 12 Steps," we explore the themes of joy and interconnectedness as embodied in Sukkos and Simchas Torah. Discover why these are considered the "highest holidays," representing the culmination of Rosh Hashanah's surrender and Yom Kippur's atonement, and how they relate to practicing spiritual principles in all aspects of life.
In honor of Vov Tishrei, the yahrzeit of the Rebbe's mother, Rebbetzin Chana, this class delves into a profound teaching from Likkutei Sichos (Vol. 19, pp. 291-297). The Rebbe revolutionizes our understanding of prayer, drawing lessons from the prophetess Chana's example to reveal how asking for our needs can be the ultimate expression of our connection to the divine. Discover how this perspective deepens our approach to prayer and strengthens our bond with Hashem.
Part 2 of "High Holidays & the 12 Steps" looks at Yom Kippur and the mechanics of "at-one-ment." Getting rid of our character defects isn't just about cleaning house; it first requires a fundamental surrender to a Higher Power.
Part 1 of High Holidays & the 12 Steps: spiritual prep for the Jewish New Year through the lens of recovery. In this Rosh Hashanah class, we explore surrender, vision, and beginning again—translating core 12-step ideas into practical avodah for the Days of Awe. Part 2: Yom Kippur. Part 3: Sukkos.
This special presentation on the Rebbe's father, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, focuses on his teachings and the self-sacrifice to preserve his writings.
Donate to Keren Levi Yitzchak:magbis.org/keren-levi-yitzchak
An honest and compassionate discussion on the subject of shidduchim, led by Rabbi Shais Taub along with Tziporo Grodko of Stories of Hope. Recorded at a special Tu B'Av event at the Soul Words House, this video features a deep dive into tough questions submitted by the online community and live Q&A from the in-person audience.
Partner with SoulWords by contributing at https://charidy.com/rst and help bring powerful, life-changing wisdom to countless others. Your support makes a big impact in funding the creation of inspiring projects that uplift and transform lives.
Rabbi Shais Taub updates students of his popular Shaar Habitachon series, which was recorded five years ago, sharing how the principle of Bitachon has played a crucial role in the continued growth of SoulWords. The video serves as a heartfelt call to everyone who studied Shaar Habitachon with him, inviting them to partner with SoulWords by contributing to https://charidy.com/rst to help spread life-changing wisdom with others.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams sits down with Rabbi Shais Taub for a surprisingly personal and wide-ranging conversation. He shares his own struggle with dyslexia, the overlooked power of neurodivergence, and his thoughts on what’s really broken in our political system. From meditation and conscious breathing to the spiritual roots of leadership and even the mind-bending concept of remote viewing, this conversation goes places few political interviews ever do.
👉 Partner with SoulWords to support more content like this: https://charidy.com/rst
Thank you to our sponsors:
⚡️ Electric & Beyond
From wiring small fixtures to tackling large commercial projects or installing backup generators, they deliver unmatched quality. For all your electrical needs, contact Electric & Beyond at 718-4BEYOND—that’s 718-423-9663.
📱 Integration HD
Their innovative systems let you control lighting, audio, video, HVAC, security, and more with just a tap. Transform your home into a smart haven with Integration HD. Reach them at 516-612-0677 to explore the possibilities.
Join a farbrengen live from the SoulWords House, in honor of 12-13 Tammuz, the Liberation of the Previous Rebbe. Rabbi Shais Taub tells the amazing true-life story of the Previous Rebbe's arrest and liberation while Eli Marcus shares chasidic melodies to commemorate and relive this auspicious day.
The Rebbe's Maamar "Vayishlach Yehoshua" was first delivered on 28 Sivan, the anniversary of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin's arrival in the USA. The discourse examines the Biblical stories of the spies sent by Moshe and later by Yehoshua and presents them as two models of personal development.
Be a part of our ongoing campaign: Charidy.com/RST
In honor of Lag b'Omer, study actual excerpts of the text of Zohar as illuminated by the teachings of the Rebbe. A livestream event from the SoulWords House.
The thirtieth class of the "30 Letters in 30 Days" series, held live for women at the SoulWords House on 11 Nissan, focuses on a letter the Rebbe wrote on his birthday, 11 Nissan 5711, to a woman about the topic of faith as a key to emotional wellbeing.
In a letter to secular Isareli politician, Dr. Bentzion Dinur, the Rebbe explains that there can be no freedom of the body without freedom of the soul.
The Rebbe commends famed author, Eliezer Steinman, for his significant role in spreading Chassidus to communities that otherwise might not have encountered it. The Rebbe asks Steinman to contemplate what merit he could have had in the past that led him to have the further merit of spreading chasidus to so many.
The Rebbe explains to a chosid why the greatest guarantee he can have is a promise from a tzadik and the tremendous powers that are transferred to one who carries out the tzadik's charge.
Two letters of the Rebbe bring out different insights from the fact that in our generation we are unable to fast the way those in previous generations did.
The Rebbe responds to the complaints of a yeshiva student that his activism is interfering with his own Torah study.
In a letter to a woman, the Rebbe extols the great virtue of the Jewish women in Egypt and explains how they serve us an example for all of us.
In this letter thanking someone for a donation, the Rebbe explains the incredible importance of providing for the yom tov needs of others as the preparation for one's own Pesach.
The Rebbe explains why he refers to the letter writer as "G-d-fearing" when he himself admitted he was not yet Torah observant.
In a letter to a "Yiddishist" who expressed concern about receiving correspondence from the Rebbe in English, the Rebbe explains the necessity of sometimes using non-Jewish languages in communication. The Rebbe highlights the importance of conveying messages and teachings to all Jews, regardless of language barriers, to help bring them closer to Torah and mitzvot.
In the first letter of this class, the Rebbe explains to someone why it's not enough to merely want to do things that make you spiritually strong; you have to actually do them. In the second letter, the Rebbe takes exception with the letter writer's saying that he has had "an unnaturally (bad) year."
The Rebbe writes to a young woman that the formula for true happiness in life and in marriage is a full commitment to Hashem's Torah.
The Rebbe writes to a man who is worried about various issues in life and sets him on a path of positivity.
The Rebbe writes to Rabbi Nissan Nemanov about the importance of Chassidim seizing every possible opportunity to connect with the Rebbe.
The Rebbe writes to parents who are conflicted about their son's desire to allow his beard to grow. The Rebbe gives a surprising explanation as to why this is an ill-advised idea.
In a letter to a yeshiva bochur, the Rebbe emphasizes the importance of discerning the tricks of the yetzer hara when facing challenges in a new environment.
We study two powerful letters from the Rebbe addressing Israeli soldiers, focusing on the spiritual significance of their self-sacrifice and service.
In this letter, the Rebbe addresses the decision to build a Holocaust memorial in Paris. He emphasizes the importance of using resources to help the living in urgent need, both physically and spiritually.
In this class, the Rebbe explains the significance of reporting back with good news. He emphasizes how sharing positive updates brings increased blessings upon the letter writer.
The Rebbe urges a father to overcome his timidity and ensure his daughter fully understands the laws of Jewish marriage, emphasizing the impact on future generations.
The brothers talk about mourning and saying Kaddish after the passing of their father, of blessed memory.
Discover the Rebbe’s profound advice to a woman who lost her teaching job, offering a powerful perspective on setbacks and resilience. This class explores how challenges are part of a greater process and how to face them with faith, strength, and renewed purpose.
In this English letter, the Rebbe offers comfort to parents who lost a child in a shocking tragedy. The Rebbe emphasizes the eternality of the soul and how the soul relies on its loved ones still here on earth.
Exploretwo letters from the Rebbe to Rabbi Dovid Leselbaum regarding his interactions with Israeli politician Yaakov Zerubavel. The Rebbe advises Leselbaum on how to engage with Zerubavel, emphasizing the power of truth to ultimately prevail.
The Rebbe responds to blessings he received from his chassidim and highlights how these blessings were amplified by being accompanied with Torah study and tzedaka.Give tzedaka on the Colel Chabad pushka app. https://colelchabad.org/pushka-app/
In this letter, the Rebbe addresses the issue of talking during davening. But instead of simply condemning the behavior, the Rebbe offers a deeper perspective—one that challenges us to see the bigger picture of what it means when a Jew interrupts their daily routine to come to shul and pray.
In this letter, the Rebbe addresses a teacher who was struggling with discouragement and self-doubt, to the point of leaving the profession. The Rebbe offers a profound perspective on exhaustion, self-perception, and the Yetzer Hara’s tactics to bring a person down.
In this heartfelt lecture, Rabbi Shais Taub shares personal stories and life lessons from his father, Dr. Gershom Taub OBM, in honor of the upcoming shloshim (30-day memorial) of his passing. With warmth and wisdom, Rabbi Taub reflects on the values, teachings, and memories that helped shape him. A touching tribute to a beloved father and an inspiring message for every soul.
We conclude our study of this work with chapters 7 and 8 in which the Mitteler Rebbe explains why the ruler is in a unique position to give a true and just ruling on his case.
In chapters 5 and 6 of the discourse we examine the quality of Malchus (royalty) and explain how it is, like Tiferes, a representation of the "central vector."
Rabbi Shais Taub shares three powerful spiritual tools for increasing our emotional wellbeing. Delivered in Lakewood, NJ on Nov 26, 2024.
How do we respond to the devastating tragedy of Rabbi Tzvi Kogan’s brutal murder by terrorists in the UAE? In this video, we explore how to process such an unfathomable loss and find strength to go on. Drawing upon the Rebbe’s teachings, we uncover guidance for navigating grief, pain, and the challenge of continuing our mission even in the face of darkness. May this reflection bring comfort and inspiration during this difficult time.
In this class we cover chapters 3-4 of the discourse and examine more deeply the idea of the "middle vector" called Tiferes.
Toward a better understanding of the spiritual mechanisms behind governmental power, Chapter 2 of the Mitteler Rebbe’s discourse, focuses on the three axes—right, left, and center—within the Sefiros.
The Mitteler Rebbe’s letter known as Baad Kodesh was written to appeal for justice during his imprisonment, and explains how Divine authority flows through earthly rulers to enable just governance. In this first class, we study Chapter 1 (of seven chapters) of the letter.
The holy tzadik, R' Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, is renowned for his passionate advocacy on behalf of the Jewish people, always defending them before the Heavenly Court. However, less widely known are his profound Torah teachings and the beautiful melodies he composed. To honor the Berditchever’s yahrzeit on 25 Tishrei, world-renowned speaker Rabbi Shais Taub and acclaimed recording artist Eli Marcus pay a heartfelt tribute to R' Levi Yitzchak’s legacy, bringing together his powerful teachings and soulful niggunim.Join us for this meaningful celebration of the life and teachings of R' Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev, and immerse yourself in the warmth of his enduring legacy.
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to a caller who is unsure of how to properly observe Shemini Atzeres / Simchas Torah this year in light of the events of one year ago.
In honor of 13 Tishrei, Yahrzeit of the Rebbe Maharash, hear a story about how the Rebbe Maharash as a young man offered wise counsel to his father, the Tzemach Tzedek. The Rebbe analyzes the narrative highlighting the profound lessons we can all learn from it.(Based on Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 4, pp. 1361-1363)
Why aren't there two days of Yom Kippur? What makes Die Hard fun? What are the riddles of the rabbi of Baghdad? Brothers Shais and Dovid Taub discuss this and more on this latest edition of your favorite podcast.
Through teshuvah, even those far from holiness can reveal their inner connection to G‑d, elevating the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy.
We study Chapters 7-8 and conclude the maamar.
In this part of the maamar, the Rebbe explains how the "king in the field" analogy does not depict an "arousal from Above" inasmuch as it only reveals that which the people had inside of them all along—namely, a desire to be close to the king. Furthermore, the response of the people causes an elevation in the king himself.
We study Chapter 6 and the beginning of chapter 7.
The Rebbe gives a novel interpretation of the reason for the king's smile in the Alter Rebbe's famous parable of the King in the Field.
Chapters 4 and 5.
The twenty-two letters are building blocks that through re-arrangements and substitutions, diminish the original power of the creative energy so that different creating beings can emerge. This diminishing effect may be likened to the sun's light reflected by the moon.
In this maamar, the Rebbe revisits the Alter Rebbe's famous maamar Ani L'Dodi which employs the metaphor of the king in the field to explain the uniqueness of Elul. We begin by contrasting Elul with the High Holidays, describing them as an arousal from below and an arousal from Above, respectively.
The Ten Utterances of creation are only rightly called such from the subjective perspective of the created beings.
In this class we conclude the maamar with the study of chapters 8 and 9. We learn how there are two levels of redemption that each of us must go through and how these correspond to the redemption in macrocosm through Moshiach.
Using the metaphor of the sun and its rays, we come to better understand the nature of Hashem's attributes in relation to His essence. Just as the sun’s rays are relatively non-existent when compared to the sun itself, so too are the Divine attributes one with Hashem's essence.
The possibility for forgetting Torah derives from a viewpoint that perceives a separation between transcendent and the immanent Divine energies. This is also the root of the debacle of the worship of the Golden Calf.
The Essence of G-d cannot be described by even the loftiest attributes, so why do we speak of Hashem as "wise" or "compassionate" etc? In this chapter, the Alter Rebbe gives us context for understanding the proper usage of these terms.
The unification of Sovev and Memaleh can also be understood as corresponding to the names Havaye and Elokim. This unification makes it possible to live within time and space but not prioritize the material world as an end unto itself.
Chapters 4 and 5 of the maamar.
Having explained in chapters 1-7 how Hashem is the only true existence and that the worlds are not something "other" than Him, we now turn our attention to the oneness of Hashem in terms of Himself. Hashem is a simple oneness, not a composite of attributes.
How does the concept of Bitachon (trust in G-d) apply to earning a living? Rabbi Shais Taub speaks about the spiritual principles of financial success without distraction or worry.
Drawing on the mystical teachings of Chassidus and Kabbalah, Rabbi Shais Taub explores masculine and feminine paradigms in marriage and relationships. This enlightening talk offers practical insights and a clear understanding of gender dynamics rooted in Jewish spirituality which will bring clarity to those seeking to deepen their insights into male-female interactions.
This maamar of the Rebbe is based on a maamar of the Alter Rebbe in Likkutei Torah which describes how to instill in oneself the feeling that the Torah is truly new everyday.
Chapters 1-3 of the maamar.
The second session of the all-day workshop on Judaism and recovery begins with a guided meditation on acceptance followed by a round of Q&A.
This video is PART 2 of an intensive all-day workshop entitled "Practicing Acceptance in our Lives and in the Steps" which was conducted in London, UK on July 4, 2024.
We conclude Ch. 7 with a further explanation of Tzimztum and how it is possible for Hashem to fill all worlds while simultaneously not being limited by them.
For those interested in exploring 12-Step recovery from a Jewish spiritual perspective, Rabbi Shais Taub utilizes texts from the Big Book of AA and the 12 and 12 to discuss how Jews in recovery can integrate their faith tradition into their lives in a manner consistent with sustained recovery.
This video is PART 1 of an intensive all-day workshop entitled "Practicing Acceptance in our Lives and in the Steps."
These sessions were recorded during an intensive, all-day workshop in London, UK, on July 4, 2024.
In the final two chapters of the maamar, we learn that the level of selflessness achieved through our Torah study after the Giving of the Torah surpasses that of the Avos. Furthermore, through Torah study, we attain true freedom, embodying the concept of "personal redemption."
On the 28th day of Sivan in 5701 (1941), the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin arrived safely on American shores, marking not only a miraculous escape from war-torn Europe but also the beginning of a new era in history. This moment heralded a transformative bottom-up approach to self-improvement and global refinement, setting the stage for a profound shift in how we engage with spirituality and our collective mission to perfect the world.
In Chapter 7, we explore the concept that despite Hashem's transcendence, He is present within space and time through His attribute of Malchus. Additionally, we examine the Alter Rebbe's interpretation of the Lurianic concept of Tzimtzum, clarifying that it does not imply Hashem literally withdrew Himself to allow for finite creation, but rather concealed His light.
In chapters 7 and 8 of the maamar we continue to contrast the way that Torah was accessible to the Patriarchs and the way in which we are able to access it now after Matan Torah. In the words of the Midrash, before Matan Torah, the Torah was like the fragrance of the oil whereas after Matan Torah it is like the oil itself.
In chapters 5 and 6 of the maamar we learn about the way that the events of Matan Torah permanently changed reality and how this is reflected in three aspects: 1) the Giver of the Torah, 2) the recipients of the Torah, and 3) the Torah itself.
In chapter 6, we are finally able to understand the statement in the verse with which we began chapter 1. "Know today and take it upon your heart that Hashem is Elokim; there is no other." Because the Divine Names of Hashem and Elokim are really one, therefore, even the concealment that makes creation appear to exist independently is also G-d. As such, there is truly nothing but Him.
Chapter 5 is very short but very challenging. Based on the Rebbe's explanations, we try to unpack the basic message of the chapter which is to obviate misunderstandings regarding tzimtzum that may arise from Chapter 4.
Chapter four of the maamar explains the meaning of the four letters of Hashem's name and describes how they are expressed not only in the soul but in the body as well.
Chapter 4 answers the question that was asked at the end of the previous chapter. How it is that creation is not nullified out of existence before Hashem? The answer is that Hashem's restraining power allows His creative power to conceal itself in a way that created beings can retain a sense of independent selfhood.
This maamar was originally delivered by the Rebbe on the second day of Shavups 5729 (1969.)
In this class, we cover the first three chapters of the maamar in which the Rebbe begins to analyze a maamar of the Rebbe Maharash of the same name that was delivered 100 years earlier. The central theme is the idea of Hashem's words at Sinai being directed to the individual.
This maamar was originally delivered by the Rebbe on the second day of Shavups 5729 (1969.)
In this class, we cover the first three chapters of the maamar in which the Rebbe begins to analyze a maamar of the Rebbe Maharash of the same name that was delivered 100 years earlier. The central theme is the idea of Hashem's words at Sinai being directed to the individual.
Rabbi Shais Taub visits Avi Fishoff's support group for parents in crisis, to present the valuable life lessons he learned while winning the trust of a couple of frightened stray cats. He draws parallels between putting these cats at ease and similar behaviors in interpersonal relationships that convey safety and security especially to those experiencing emotional dysregulation due to trauma.
Rabbi Shais Taub visits Avi Fishoff's support group for parents in crisis, to present the valuable life lessons he learned while winning the trust of a couple of frightened stray cats. He draws parallels between putting these cats at ease and similar behaviors in interpersonal relationships that convey safety and security especially to those experiencing emotional dysregulation due to trauma.
In Chapter 3, the Alter Rebbe illustrates how, based on what we have learned in chs 1-2, it is a logical conclusion that all of created reality is non-existent relative to the Divine energy that constantly brings it in to being,
In Chapter 3, the Alter Rebbe illustrates how, based on what we have learned in chs 1-2, it is a logical conclusion that all of created reality is non-existent relative to the Divine energy that constantly brings it in to being,
Torah is the wisdom of Hashem while mitzvos are His will. This idea will help us to understand why there are various different levels of Torah study but when it comes to mitzvah observance all Jews are placed in the same category as those who have done mitzvos and therefore will merit resurrection.
In this class, we complete the study of the maamar with Chapters 4 and 5.
Rabbi Shais Taub delivers the key note address at an evening dedicated to putting an end to shame and stigma connected to anxiety and depression. The event was organized by CATCH (Creating A Team of Courage and Hope). For more information about CATCH visit: https://www.catchsupport.org/
In Chapter 2 of Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah, the Alter Rebbe uses the mechanics of the miraculous Splitting of the Sea to give us a logical way of understanding why creation must be constant and continuous.
Reb Menachem Ze'ev "Volf" Greenglass (1917-2010) was a unique educator and role model who raised a generation of students in Lubavitch's yeshiva in Montreal. His only son-in-law, Rabbi Dovid Cohen, joins Rabbi Shais Taub in an interview discussing Rabbi Greenglass' life and teachings.
Chapter 1 of Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah introduces the idea that all of created reality is composed of arrangements of the 22 letters of the Holy Tongue and that it is the Divine Speech that issues for these letters that causes all of creation to continue to exist rather than revert into nothingness.
Join Rabbi Shais Taub as he brings the mystical Ten Sefiros to life, straight from the core texts of Kabbalah and Chassidic philosophy. This session isn't just an overview—it's a deep dive into sacred writings like the introduction to Tikunei Zohar and Igeres HaKodesh, chapter 15. Rabbi Taub translates ancient wisdom into practical insights that resonate with our everyday lives. Discover how these fundamental Kabbalistic concepts can transform your understanding and spiritual practice.
The Lubavitcher Rebbe's discourse Kol Yisrael begins with the Mishnah that is recited before the study of Pirkei Avos stating: "All Israel has a portion in the world to come." In this lesson, covering chapters 1-2 of the maamar, we question why even those souls that reside in the highest levels of heaven will need to come back down to the physical world in order to experience resurrection after the coming of Moshiach.
We begin the second volume of Tanya known as The Gate of Unity and Faith (Shaar HaYichud Ve'HaEmunah) which explains the oneness and unity of Hashem. In this introduction, the Alter Rebbe explains why we need to understand this subject matter as it is the foundation to developing proper love and awe of Hashem.
We begin the second volume of Tanya known as The Gate of Unity and Faith (Shaar HaYichud Ve'HaEmunah) which explains the oneness and unity of Hashem. In this introduction, the Alter Rebbe explains why we need to understand this subject matter as it is the foundation to developing proper love and awe of Hashem.
Rabbi Shais Taub leads a guided meditation session at the Kansas City Recovery Retreat. The focus of the meditation is on the idea of G-d's complete "Everything-ness" and how we can surrender our separate egos to that reality to experience greater serenity and, most importantly, increase our usefulness to our Maker.
Co-founder of AA, Dr. Bob, once said that the entire 12-Step program could be summed up as: 1) Trust G-d, 2) Clean House, 3) Help Others. In that spirit, Rabbi Shais Taub presents a 1-hour overview of the 12 Steps of recovery structured into "three phases of freedom" corresponding to three months on the Jewish calendar as well as three phrases in the verse (Song of Songs 1:4) "Draw me, we will run after you; the king brought me to his chambers."
This was delivered as the step workshop at the Kansas City Recovery Conference in 2024.
First we review last week's class and get into a very lively discussion of the importance of getting Jews to eat matzah on the night of Pesach. We then continue with the maamar and learn about how the matzah we eat possesses the advantages of various different spiritual levels all at once.
Text-based study of the Rebbe's maamar Matzah Zo 5749. This class covers Chapters 3-4 of the maamar.
Join Rabbi Shais Taub and Dr. Jacob L. Freedman in a thought-provoking discussion on mental health, addiction recovery, and Pesach. Delve into the intersection of spirituality and mental well-being as they share insights and strategies for personal growth during the holiday season. Gain valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges and finding inner strength amidst adversity. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own journey or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers practical wisdom and compassionate guidance.
To purchase the Four Cups Haggadah: https://a.co/d/1dWimj7
What is the reason why we eat matzah at the Seder? In the Haggadah, we say that the reason is because "our ancestors did not have time for their dough to rise before the Holy One revealed Himself and redeemed them." But is that the actual reason why we eat matzah? Is it not because we were commanded to do so? Analysis of the reason why we eat matzah leads us to understanding different spiritual levels that can be attained through eating matzah on Pesach.
Text-based study of the Rebbe's maamar Matzah Zo 5749. This class covers Chapters 1-2 of the maamar.
Modern life has disconnected us from the rhythms of the cosmos. However, during an eclipse, we collectively look up and are reminded that the universe is in motion, hinting at the existence of a Divine Creator.
Day 339: Positive Commandment 191, 214; Negative Commandment 311, 58; Positive Commandment 221; Negative Commandment 263, 264; Conclusion
Day 338: Negative Commandment 46; Positive Commandment 190; Negative Commandment 56, 57; Positive Commandment 192, 193
Day 337: Positive Commandment 187; Negative Commandment 49; Positive Commandment 188, 189; Negative Commandment 59
Learn about the connection between the Lubavitcher Rebbe's Purim gathering in Brooklyn in 1953 and Stalin's sudden demise in Moscow. Rabbi Shais Taub meticulously maps out the historical timeline, providing compelling visual aids to illustrate the extraordinary sequence of events.
Explore the paradoxical mission of the soul, torn between the intense desire to transcend the body and the necessity to return in order to make a dwelling place for Hashem in this world.Based on Chapter 50 of Tanya.
As we conclude the maamar with the study of the ninth and final chapter, we delve even more deeply into the true nature of Hashem's relationship with the Jewish people. Even at the loftiest levels where there is no compelling reason for Hashem to choose one way or another, the Jewish people are essential to Him. For our part, we mirror Hashem's choice by devoting ourselves to Hashem in ways that transcend logic.
Day 319: Negative Commandment 280; Positive Commandment 177; Negative Commandment 276, 274
In order to make space within Himself for us, Hashem "contracts" His Infinity, so to speak. When we contemplate on the fact that this is all done in order to create the possibility of a relationship with Him, it will trigger within us reciprocal feelings of wanting to "contract" ourselves for Him, ie. to prioritize His will even at the cost of our personal desires.Based on Chapters 48-49 of Tanya.
Based on what we have learned so far, we understand that the randomness of a lottery allows for the possibility of Haman's wicked plot succeeding. We now explain why it didn't actually work by introducing a new way of understanding G-d's "choice" in choosing the Jewish people.Chapter 8 of the discourse.
Embodiment may be considered both a prison for the soul as well as its path to spiritual freedom.Continuing the theme introduced in Ch. 46 of Tanya which explains the reflective nature of the heart, Ch. 47 asks how we can feel G-d's love for us that He exhibited when taking us out from Egypt when it happened so long ago. The answer is that we can view every moment as "Egypt" and whenever we connect to Him through Torah and mitzvos, this is our "Exodus."
Having left off with the question of why Haman's evil plot was unsuccessful, the maamar now turns its focus to King Achashverosh. We learn that the level of divinity symbolized by Achashverosh refers to a transcendent plane where the categories of ends and beginnings lack any practical distinction. Consequently, the rule of Achashverosh was characterized by a time of seeming divine indifference, where evil appeared to have been allowed to prevail without incurring G-d's immediate judgment. Why then did Haman still feel the need to cast a lottery to carry out his plan?Chapters 6 and 7 of the maamar.
In Chapter 46 of Tanya, we learn about a mechanism by which we can automatically trigger intense feelings of love for our Creator. This is based on the Solomon's wisdom that "As water reflects a face, so does one heart reflect another heart."
The idea of a lottery represents a level of reality that transcends not only intellect but even will. This is the level of G-dliness known as "Ba'al HaRatzon" which means the master of the will. On that level, atonement for violation of G-d's will is possible. After understanding this, however, we are left with the question why Haman would have attempted to invoke such a concept that facilitates atonement for the Jewish people. The answer is that within the system of creation, Haman knew that he could not defeat the Jews. However, if he could access the level of randomness, there was at least a possibility that his plan would succeed.Chapters 3-5 of the discourse.
What is the proper way to memorialize a loved one who has passed? How do we as Jews comfort those who have suffered a loss? This lecture was delivered at the Levi Yitzchak Library in Cedarhurst, NY which is named for Levi Yitzchak Wolowik a"h who suddenly and tragically passed away in his sleep at the age of nine.PLEASE PLEDGE A MITZVAH IN LEVI'S HONOR AT: https://mitzvosforlevi.com/
When one meditates on the idea of the soul's descent into a body, this should arouse our sense of compassion for its plight. This then can activate our feelings of love of G-d described by the kabbalists as "kissing" and "hugging."Based on Ch. 45 of Tanya.
Symbols of cultural identity that inspired Jewish boomers are not meaningful to Gen Z. Is this the end of Judaism or a new beginning? Rabbi Shais Taub suggests that the only thing left is to explain the mystical truth about the uniqueness of this physical world.Recorded in front of a group of college students from Aish UK on a trip to NYC.
The name Purim refers to the "pur" or the lottery cast by Haman to choose the month in which to carry out his evil plan. Why is the name of the holiday connected with attempted tool of destruction? We begin to explain that the idea of a lottery, which features both on Purim as well as Yom Kippur, refers to a level beyond the normal framework.Chapters 1-2 of the discourse.
Join Rabbi Shais Taub in a guided meditation based on Chapter 44 of Tanya, which helps one to cultivate a deep love for Hashem by contemplating His role as the source of our life. This is the meditation known as "My Soul, I desire You."
Day 286: Positive Commandment 196; Negative Commandment 233; Positive Commandment 234, 233; Negative Commandment 261
In this class, we give a review of the main themes covered so far in the previews chapters and we study the final chapter which explains the paradox of how the levels we have learned about called "ohr" (light) and "shem" (name) can coexist. We discuss two main ways in which we can perceive Hashem's presence in creation: Hashem as He gives life to the world and Hashem as He gives existence to the world something from nothing.Chapter 8 of the discourse.
Second part in a series that takes a spiritual look at ethical dilemmas in Jewish thought. In this lecture, Rabbi Taub examines three concepts in depth:1. The mitzvah to be "fruitful and multiply" as applied to non-Jews particularly in the Holy Land.2. A brief sketch of why the Torah view on abortion does not fit neatly into pro-choice or pro-life.3. When are we permitted to deviate from the truth?
The Divine energy that is referred to as "shem" (name) is hidden more deeply in creation than other kinds of Divine energy, however, it also reveals a deeper level of Divinity. The most deeply hidden G-dliness is closer to the actual Essence of the Creator than forms of creative energy that are more revealed.Chapters 6-7 of the discourse.
A spiritual look at ethical dilemmas in Jewish thought. In this lecture, Rabbi Taub examines three concepts in depth:1. What is the actual reason why one should not repeat someone else's ideas without attribution?2. Why is it preferred to slaughter an animal on Shabbos to feed a sick person even if non-kosher meat is available?3. Why are we forbidden from turning over an individual to be killed in order to save a group?
Day 262: Negative Commandment 299; Positive Commandment 202, 203; Negative Commandment 270
A meditation for generating a powerful love of G-d by redirecting feelings of love we already have for things of this world. This level of love is described in Ch. 43 of Tanya as "ahavas olam" (a love derived from the world.)
Day 261: Positive Commandment 181; Negative Commandment 309, 298; Positive Commandment 184
Having previously discussed the Divine creative energies known as ohr (light), chayus (life), and koach (power), we now introduce the category of shem (name) which refers to the idea that Hashem "speaks" the world into being.Chapter 5 of Basi LeGani 5744.
Day 260: Positive Commandment 247; Negative Commandment 293, 297; Positive Commandment 182
Based on Ch. 42 of Tanya, we examine the role of "da'as" in transforming abstract, spiritual ideas into experiential knowledge. Rabbi Taub presents a guided meditation on the power of G-d evident in a sunset.Third in a series on Tanya and meditation.
Since the time of their leaving Egypt, the mission of the Jewish people has been to refine the sparks of Divine energy that are hidden in this world. But is the Divine light really so concealed or is it in fact everywhere we look and in everything we see?This class covers Chapters 3-4 of the maamar.
The three levels of meditation (hisbonenus) are rungs on a ladder. Based on Hayom Yom 20 Tammuz. Meditation after study focuses on sensing the intellect of the concept; meditation before prayer focuses on sensing the vitality of the concept; and meditation during prayer focuses on sensing the G-dliness of the concept.
In this keynote address at the Kesher Nafshi shabbaton, Rabbi Shais Taub challenges the premise of "crisis chinuch" and argues that parents need to tap into not only the unconditional love but "unconditional pride" in every child. Rabbi Taub also discusses the importance of vulnerability, honesty, and authenticity in our families and community.
Text-based study of the Rebbe's yearly 10 Shvat "Basi LeGani" maamar recited on the anniversary of the passing of his father-in-law and predecessor. The maamar from the year 5744 (1984) corresponds to the present year 5784 (2024.)This class covers Chapters 1-2 of the maamar.
A basic introduction to "hisbonenus," a Chabad chasidic meditative practice. The particular meditation that Rabbi Taub guides the class through is taken from Chapter 41 of Tanya and is a meditation specifically designed to foster feelings of awe of G-d.
Christopher Hitchens once formulated a compelling argument that widespread atheism was an inevitability. It helped me better understand my faith.
This advice is so simple it hardly deserves to be considered a life hack except for the fact that the vast majority of people will not be willing to do it. It's the difference between exhausting yourself trying to gain acceptance and being appreciated for who you truly are.
The Blood Brothers talk about miracle oil, saving lives, googly eyes, Chinese accident victims, flying to Martha's Vineyard with Alan Dershowitz, and lots of other stuff in this latest edition to their podcast.
Chapters 7-10 of the maamar explain the role of the soul's essence in the alignment and integration of all soul levels as well as its ability to transform darkness into light.
Neurodivergent children (such as those with ASD, ADHD, and others) carry a unique light that is often unrecognized which can lead to pain and isolation. It is up to parents to help their children discover and embrace that which makes them special and help them to shine their light.Emphasizing Carl Jung's insight "the greatest burden on a child is the unlived life of the parent," Rabbi Taub retells the Biblical story of Leah and her daughter Dinah as a case study of the effects that a parent's unfulfilled destiny has on a child.Recorded live on 19 Kislev at Bais Menachem of North Miami Beach
Our connection to the mitzvos--even those that have reasons that we can understand--is ultimately suprarational. It is this level of devotion to Hashem's will that the Hellenists sought to eradicate as symbolized by their purposely defiling the oil in the Temple.Chapters 4-6 of the maamar Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738.
Chapters 1-3 of the Rebbe's discourse Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 are studied in this text-based class. We examine the meaning of the number eight and its connection to transforming darkness to light.
This lesson covers Ch. 52 in Tanya in which we further explain the concept of the "brain" of each plane of existence that was mentioned in Ch. 51.
In the final chapter of the discourse Mayim Rabim we learn about how ordinary mundane life actually contains tremendous spiritual potential. The return to our everyday lives after the excitement of the High Holidays is compared to the soul's embodiment on the physical plane following its having been in the spiritual realms.
Chapter 51 of Tanya takes us back to the discussion of the power of action that came up in Chapter 35 where mitzvos were compared to oil which fuels the flame of G-dly revelation. To better understand this, we ask a question: What does it mean that the Divine Presence rested in the Holy of Holies when we know that there is no place devoid of Hashem?
Previously we explained that although the mayim rabim (worries about making a living) are from a lofty spiritual source, the soul is from an even higher source, ie the Essence of G-d. However, we also said that the purpose of the descent into embodiment was so that the soul can have an even greater ascent. But how can it ascend higher if it is already coming from the highest level?
Concluding the theme of love and awe of Hashem begun in Ch. 41, a new type of love is introduced here in Ch. 50 that is in a whole different category from all previously discussed forms of love.
Avraham our father was one person against the world. And yet he also became a great leader and ambassador to people of all nations. This is the Jewish paradox. And the reason why some of us may be feeling very alone.
The soul descends from a place of spiritual perfection and is plunged into the harrowing conditions of embodiment. All of this is actually a descent for the sake of a subsequent ascent. The soul in heaven is a "tzadik" but the embobied soul can become a "baal teshuvah," an incomparably greater level in closeness with Hashem.
Finishing Ch. 49 of Tanya and the subject of "reciprocal love." In this class, we deal at length with the idea of Hashem "choosing" the Jewish people.
The flood waters of financial worries are rooted in the lofty spiritual level known as Tohu. Yet the source of the G-dly soul is ultimately even higher. The G-dly soul's love of G-d is likened to the fire that is hidden inside of a coal or on an even higher level, the potential spark that remains in a flint stone even after it has been submerged in water.
Embark on a journey into the heart of Jewish resilience and the profound paradox of sustaining joy and tranquility in the midst of pain and turmoil. Rabbi Shais Taub imparts a collection of compelling stories that illuminate the unique Jewish ability to remain irrationally positive and hopeful even when it hurts.
Day 183: Positive Commandment 54; Negative Commandment 156, 229; Positive Commandment 16, 79
Studying the Rebbe's discourse Mayim Rabim 5738, which metaphorically compares financial worries to a flood, inundating us like raging waters. Despite their overwhelming nature, these concerns not only fail to extinguish our spiritual passions but, unexpectedly, end up fueling and strengthening them. Chapters 1 and 2 of the discourse.
Day 179: Negative Commandment 114; Positive Commandment 55; Negative Commandment 115, 116
Chapter 48 of Tanya discusses the concept of Tzimtzum whereby the Infinite makes room for thew finite.
Day 170: Negative Commandment 120There are 339 total days in the yearly cycle of Rambam study. Today we have reached the midpoint with exactly 169 days studies and 169 days ahead of us, with Hashem's help.
Day 165: Negative Commandment 89; Positive Commandment 39, 29; Negative Commandment 81; Positive Commandment 30
Day 163: Negative Commandment 124; Positive Commandment 88, 83; Negative Commandment 155
Day 162: Positive Commandment 66; Negative Commandment 147; Positive Commandment 67; Negative Commandment 102, 103, 138
Day 161: Positive Commandment 89; Negative Commandment 145, 148; Note About Varying Customs
Day 158: Positive Commandment 60; Negative Commandment 100, 98; Positive Commandment 62; Negative Commandment 99
Day 156: Negative Commandment 74; Positive Commandment 61; Negative Commandment 91, 92, 93
Day 155: Negative Commandment 75, 76; Positive Commandment 24; Negative Commandment 69, 70, 71
Day 154: Negative Commandment 68, 165; Positive Commandment 31; Negative Commandment 77, 78
Join Rabbi Shais Taub in this insightful pre-Yom Kippur talk as he explores "The Art of Self-Reflection." Understand why real Teshuva requires recognizing your own greatness, and how this is achievable through a profound relationship with a Tzaddik who sees your soul, even when you may not see it yourself.
Day 150: Positive Commandment 22; Negative Commandment 67; Positive Commandment 35; Negative Commandment 83, 84
Day 147: Negative Commandment 169, 170; Positive Commandment 183; Negative Commandment 228; Positive Commandment 20
Day 144: Negative Commandment 223; Positive Commandment 134, 141; Negative Commandment 230, 231
Day 140: Negative Commandment 149; Positive Commandment 132; Note About Varying Customs
Day 123: Positive Commandment 121; Negative Commandment 211; Positive Commandment 123; Negative Commandment 212
Chapter 47 of Tanya continues the theme of reciprocating love begun in Chapter 48. How to feel that the Exodus is happening right now.
Explore the essence of masculinity and femininity, their harmonious interplay in relationships, and how embracing these divine traits can strengthen the bonds of love within marriage. Gain invaluable insights into fostering emotional intimacy, mutual respect, and appreciation for each partner's unique strengths.
Rabbi Shais Taub shares a spiritual view on neurodiversity according to the Torah. He speaks about the challenges and the gifts of having an unusual way of viewing reality as well as how people who are neurodiverse can be more compassionate with themselves.
Chapter 43 describes two levels of awe and two levels of love as well as how each may be attained.
Day 93: Negative Commandment 161, 162; Positive Commandment 38; Negative Commandment 160, 158, 159
Concluding chapter 42, we speak about the idea that the vastness of the creation is merely a visual cure to remind us of the infinitely greater kingship of Hashem.
Day 85: Positive Commandment 220, 218; Negative Commandment 358; Positive Commandment 219; Negative Commandment 359
During the Three Weeks of mourning for the destruction of the Bais Hamikdash we engage in its rebuilding by studying the laws of its construction. In this spirit, Rabbi Shais Taub shares spiritual lessons we can learn from the Bais HaMikdash and apply in our own lives.
Beginning Ch. 42 and the subject of the "internal Moshe Rabenu" that it makes it possible for us to relate to Hashem in a personal way.
Day 53: Positive Commandment 166; Negative Commandment 327; Positive Commandment 167; Negative Commandment 328, 199
Day 52: Positive Commandment 162; Negative Commandment 325; Positive Commandment 163; Negative Commandment 326
Day 51: Positive Commandment 159; Negative Commandment 323; Positive Commandment 160; Negative Commandment 324
Day 50: Positive Commandment 165; Negative Commandment 329; Positive Commandment 164; Negative Commandment 196
Families with a narcissistic parent often choose one child to be a scapegoat. What happens when this child finally breaks free from the toxic family system? We look at a Biblical model for this in the relationship between Yaakov and his father-in-law Lavan.
Chapter 40 of Tanya concludes our discussion of kavanah (intent) and its effect on our mitzvos.
Finishing Chapter 39 and the discussion of the various levels of intent and the worlds to which they correspond.
Follow up Q&A after the presentation on Parenting with Love.This event was recorded in Crown Heights at a Junior Nshei Chabad event on May 2, 2023.
Many of us have come to realize that some of the old models of harshness and domination are no longer desirable or effective. But what do we replace them with? Is gentle parenting synonymous with permissive parenting? Is there a way to help our children be the best versions of themselves without crushing them? In this talk given in Crown Heights, Rabbi Shais Taub draws upon the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe to outline an approach to loving parenting that really works.This event was recorded in Crown Heights at a Junior Nshei Chabad event on May 2, 2023.
Day 16: Negative Commandment 35, 38, 36, 37, 34, 43, 44, 40, 39, 41, 45, 171Day 16: Negative Commandment 35, 38, 36, 37, 34, 43, 44, 40, 39, 41, 45, 171
Day 15: Negative Commandment 11, 12, 13; Positive Commandment 185; Negative Commandment 25, 22, 48, 50, 51, 30, 33, 31, 32
Day 13: Negative Commandment 10, 47, 60, 6, 5, 2, 3, 4, 15; Positive Commandment 186; Negative Commandment 23, 24
The name of this week's Torah portion Emor literally means "speak." Why is it important that we speak? What is the special power of speech?
We begin Ch. 39 in which we continue our discussion about the different levels of kavanah (intent.) What is the difference between instinctive and intellectual emotions?
Day 9: Positive Commandment 207; Negative Commandment 302; Positive Commandment 205; Negative Commandment 303
The Torah reading of Kedoshim begins: "You shall be holy because I, the L-rd your G-d, am holy." Why is this single statement considered to be the foundation of mitzvah observance?
Concluding Ch. 38, we discuss the two levels of kavanah (intent) that may accompany a mitzvah. One level is referred to as "human" while the other is called "animal."
The Rebbe responds to a woman with a severe aversion to social situations and explains to her that every person, without exception, can only function properly within the society of other human beings.
The Rebbe tells a young man who has begun to study full time in yeshiva that dedicating a period of one's life exclusively to Torah study is the best preparation for a successful life.
What should our attitude toward mundane activities be? How do we prioritize between spiritual affairs and practical concerns?
The Rebbe gives a new perspective to a young man who complains that his peers who are not religious seem to be more successful in life than him.
Listen to this class while you clean for Pesach and enhance your Seder. Rabbi Shais Taub shares short, mystical insights on passages from the Passover Haggadah that you can share with your friends and family.
The Rebbe gives advice to a mother who experiences pervasive, unwanted thoughts about calamity and disaster.
The Rebbe encourages a father who has recently committed to grow a beard and advises him not to be intimidated by scoffers.
We conclude Ch. 37 and our discussion of the importance of physical action as the means for transforming the physical world into a home for Hashem.
The Rebbe gives advice to a young woman who finds it difficult to make friends in her new seminary.
In a public letter to all Jews everywhere, the Rebbe explains one of the messages of Pesach: in a short amount of time one can experience a radical transformation from one extreme to the other.
In the first letter, the Rebbe responds to artist Meir Ben Uri's critiques of the cover art of the Talks and Tales monthly magazine.In the second letter, the Rebbe explains to a mother why true Jewish education must continue after bar mitzvah.
A letter to Rabbi Yechiel Michel Dabruskin encouraging him to continue his work with Rumanian immigrants. Rather than viewing this as a burden, he should see this as an opportunity to help himself by helping others.
To someone complaining of pain in his feet, the Rebbe recommends a specific spiritual path to healing.
Why does the Torah require one to bring a sin offering for an inadvertent sin? What is the point of atoning for something that was an accident? The answer can only be understood by first explaining the Torah's view on our subconscious motives.
Continuing Ch. 37 and the explanation of how our physical mitzvos transform the world. We come to understand that the soul did not come to this world for its own fixing but rather to fix the world. We also learn why tzedaka is the quintessential mitzvah.
The Rebbe guides a teacher regarding a student whose mother is complaining about his refusal to partake in sports and other physical activities.
The Rebbe urges Israeli politician, Eliezer Livneh, to take the initiative to introduce a more religious tone to his new organization.
The paradox of this week’s double Torah portion teaches us how to make great groups and great individuals.
The Rebbe helps a young man overcome his feelings of failure and guilt so that he can move on and plan a future for himself.The Rebbe writes to the administration of the Chabad yeshiva in Montreal on the occasion of the yearly fundraising event and explains to them the eternal and enduring role of Moshe Rabeinu.
The Rebbe comforts a couple who lost their son and gives them direction on how to best benefit the departed's soul.
We begin Chapter 37 of Tanya in which we begin to describe the precise mechanics whereby our mitzvos transform the physical world into a dwelling place for Hashem.
A newly observant yeshiva student complains that his current yeshiva is not living up to his expectations and says he wants to leave. The Rebbe gives him another way of looking at things.
In this week's portion, Moshe makes a financial audit of the charitable contributions made toward the building of the sanctuary in the desert. Why does Rashi say that Moshe counted "the weight" of the donations made by the people and not the value?To answer this question, we must answer another question: What is the value of a mitzvah that is performed without feeling?
The Rebbe responds to a woman who says that her life has never been good and she therefore expects that it will never be good.
The Rebbe writes to a mother about her dilemma over whether to give her children food that may not be up to her usual standards of kashrus.
The Rebbe writes to an Israeli judge about the secret to reaching the younger generation in Israel. Even when Jews have been uprooted from their tradition, the connection to Judaism is still present inside of their souls.
How is it possible that so many people were enticed to worship the Golden Calf? And more importantly, how did all of the women successfully resist?
Two letters are learned in this class. First, the Rebbe responds to a rabbi who has chosen to leave his congregation and explains to him that one is not allowed to merely do what is best for oneself while neglecting the community. In the second letter, the Rebbe speaks about the importance of telling every Jew you meet, without exception, about the importance of going to the Ohel.
The Rebbe writes to Louis Finkelstein of the Jewish Theological Seminary about the need for every individual to fully use their G-d-given potentials to have a positive effect on the world and, in his specific case, to use his influence to introduce more practical observance of mitzvos among his movement.
In response to someone who says that he is afraid to identify as Chabad because he does not want to have to learn chasidus, the Rebbe gives several reasons why the letter writer should reconsider his apprehension.
Joy is one of the most important ways of serving Hashem. The need to do teshuvah to repair past wrongs is no exception, for even that must be done joyfully.
The Rebbe encourages a young educator, Rabbi Yosef Marton, to throw himself enthusiastically into his holy work as well as advising him on how not to be dissuaded by the naysayers.
A letter to the chapters of N'she U'Bnos Chabad (Chabad Women's Organization) highlights the importance of ahavas Yisrael and relates a story of the Baal Shem Tov to help explain the love that we must have for our fellow Jew.
The Choshen (breastplate) of the High Priest did not function properly in the 2nd Temple. How is this a metaphor for Exile? (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 11, pp. 137-138.)
In Ch. 36 of Tanya we continue to impress upon the beinoni why physical action is so important by explaining that the whole purpose of creation lies within the physical.
Rabbi Taub responds to viewer’s questions about how to navigate the marital relationship In keeping with the mashpia/mekabel roles. NOTE: Viewers are advised to watch Parts 1 and 2 before delving into this Question & Answer session.
Hashem wants there to be chesed in the world. In order for that to happen, someone’s gotta give and someone’s gotta receive. Here’s what to think about when you’re the one receiving.
What are the real causes of shame and self-consciousness and what can be done to overcome them? The answer lies in understanding the mysterious "tachash" animal (sometimes translated as a unicorn) whose colorful skins were used to decorate the sanctuary in the wilderness.
Beginning of Chapter 36. The ultimate purpose for the creation of all worlds takes place on earth, not in heaven.
Please give to our yearly campaign! If you enjoy these Tanya classes, use this special link: charidy.com/rst/tanya In this class, we finish Ch. 35 and the discussion of the primary importance of action over emotion.
Class in honor of the Jewish New Year for Trees delves into seven biblical trees and what we can learn from them. The Tree of Knowledge, the Tree of Life, the olive tree discovered by the dove after the flood, the grape vine brought by the spies, and the date palm and the cedar of Tehilim (Psalms.)
Beginning Ch. 35, we know focus on a new theme. What is the purpose of life? What is the point of the beinoni's struggle?
Spreading the inner secrets of the Torah will bring Moshiach. But you need to "translate" these ideas into relevant language.
Rebbetzin Shterna Sarah, wife of the Rebbe Rashab and mother of the Frierdiker Rebbe, was the last Chabad Rebbetzin to serve in the town of Lubavitch. Far too few know her story or even that her resting place is just a few feet from the Ohel of the Lubavitcher Rebbes in Queens. In honor of her yahrzeit on 13 Shvat, Rabbi Shais Taub shares a glimpse into her amazing life.
Who is "the French Shais Taub"? Why was the Alter Rebbe against Napoleon? What is the greatest cultural export of France? Can bitachon bring you a million dollars? Find out the answers to these questions (and more) as R' Yahir Elbaze, shliach from Paris, France, joins Rabbi Shais Taub in the SoulWords studios. Support Rabbi Elabaze's new Chabad House in Paris: https://www.allodons.fr/jl92
Chapter 34 of Tanya concludes the theme of joy that we began in Chapter 26. We take joy in providing a home for Hashem in this world through our Torah study and giving tzedakah.
We know the precise times of two events in this week's parsha. The slaying of the firstborn took place at midnight and the actual exodus from Egypt took place at noon the next day. Based on a Michtav Klali of the Rebbe from 5744, we learn the significance of midnight and noon in our personal lives.
Four fifths of our people did not leave Egypt at the time of the Exodus. Why will the coming redemption with Moshiach be different? Why is the answer to the wicked son of the Haggadah to remind him that if he had been in Egypt he would not have been redeemed? We will understand all of this in light of a little known story about when the Lubavitcher Rebbe reached out to chess master Bobby Fischer who had renounced his Jewish identity.
Finishing Ch. 33. More about why Hashem gets such delight from us "letting Him in." Rabbi Taub shares an epiphany he had about the old Groucho joke "I would never want to be part of any club that would have someone like me as a member."
When experiencing stress, it can be extremely difficult to feel present in our own lives. We go into our own heads and get caught in a loop of distracting thoughts. Rabbi Shais Taub speaks about a deep, spiritual perspective that we can use as a tool for embracing the current moment so that we actually "show up for our own lives."
Was Moshe starting up with Hashem or was he expressing fascination with Hashem’s ways? And what does this mean for me?
Rabbi Asi Spiegel of Tzfas, Israel joins Rabbi Shais Taub in the SoulWords studios to discuss his work teaching chasidus near the resting place of the Rashbi. From there, the conversation touches upon many topics such as understanding Israeli culture and what it takes to properly translate chasidus into any language.
What is the purpose of bonding and emotional connection in parenting and how is it accomplished? Rabbi Shais Taub addresses parents of Chaviva High School in Cleveland, OH to discuss the Jewish way in creating emotional trust and safety in our homes so that our children may flourish.
Why are we here? What's life all about? And do we really have any say in the matter?These were the questions I was told to speak about as they drove me from London Heathrow to my speaking engagement where a crowd was already gathered.
Chapter 33 continues the theme of JOY begun in Ch. 26. The specific form of joy that we focus on in this chapter is the unique happiness we feel when we feel close to Hashem.
What is the symbolism of the burning bush? Here is one explanation from a maamar of the Frierdiker Rebbe. It's talking about two opposite fires: the passion of the righteous for G-d and the passion of the wicked for earthly pleasures. The Torah is the solution for how to survive both of these.
There are many reasons why some of us feel perpetually anxious. In this second lecture in a series on Emunah & Anxiety, Rabbi Shais Taub addresses some of the underlying conditions that can place an extra burden on our allostatic load. He uses the expression "spiritual canaries" to describe people for whom life itself can be incredibly stressful.
Concluding Ch. 32 -the HEART of TANYA- we discuss how to love even those people who behave in ways that are objectively hateful.
Find out why Chapter 32 is the "heart of Tanya." How does the identity shift outlined in Chapter 31 lead to a radical change in our relationships with others.
Yaakov blessed the sons of Yosef to "prosper like fish" which is explained to mean that they should be protected from the evil eye. What about being "fish-like" protects us from being damaged by the jealousy of others? (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 25, pp. 11-12.)
A further discussion of the spiritual paradigms of masculine and feminine. In this follow up episode we focus specifically on applications in the area of marital intimacy.
Are we stressed because of the stories we tell ourselves or do we tell ourselves stories because we are stressed. King Solomon's wisdom provides us with two powerful spiritual tools for ridding ourselves of these personal "mythologies" that we use to explain our suffering.
Okay, this week's 2-minute Torah thought is a little bit on the cute side. Please forgive me.
Just before they were separated for twenty-two years, Yaakov shared a final message with his son Yosef. How did these words keep Yosef alive through all of his trials and travails? What message would you want to be your last to your child?
Concluding Ch. 31, we discuss the role of healthy frustration with the body and taking joy in the delight of the soul.
Beginning Ch. 31, we address the burning question that now arises: what if the methods of unflinching personal stocktaking outlined in the previous chapters bring on a negative emotional state? If we established in Ch. 26 that joy is essential, how could we employ methods that may cause us to feel bad?
The inner dimension of the Torah reveals how the Jewish people are united as a single, inseparable entity. We must express this unity in every way possible in our day to day lives.This is an excerpt from a longer Farbrengen.לזכות העניא בת ברכה דבורה לאה
Continuing Ch. 30 in which we are charged with humbling ourselves before all, even the wanton sinners. Is our struggle as intense as theirs or are we coasting?
What is the most appropriate reward for a good deed? The opportunity to more good deeds! (Based on Sichos Kodesh 5734, vol. 1, p. 212.)
Why did the Jewish people gather once in seven years at the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and how is this idea still relevant today? Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to a Hakhel gathering in London, UK about the significance of Hakhel gatherings and the necessity of having embodied experiences of Judaism.
Discover the deep meaning hidden behind this deceptively simple child's game. Find out how the Chanukah toy known as the dreidel contains within it symbolism about the nature of existence and the ultimate destiny of the Jewish people.
Why did Yaakov behave so obsequiously toward Eisav at their reunion when he was supposed to have been guaranteed to be a master over his brother? We learn from the Alter Rebbe in prison that our objective is not destruction of the opposition but to refine it and win it over to our side. (Based on Likkutei Shichos vol. 15, pp. 298-301.)
Deeper meaning and practical takeaways from the chasidic discourse Lcha Dodi which describes the spiritual dynamics of marriage. In partnership with Mikvah.org.
How can Bitachon (trust in G-d) make a practical difference in our lives? And how do we move into the headspace and heartspace of total reliance on G-d that brings about these results? Rabbi Shais Taub discusses some of the groundbreaking ideas presented in a published talk of the Lubavitcher Rebbe (Likkutei Sichos Vol. 36, p. 1) that explains how "think good, it will be good" really works.Followed by live Q&A.לזכות העניא בת ברכה דבורה לאה
Chapter 30 of Tanya begins by citing the teaching of our Sages to be humble before all people. But how can we legitimately feel humility before everyone, even those who are extremely morally weak?
Concluding Ch. 29 of Tanya, we explain the underlying mechanics of why removing the complacency of the ego automatically leads to an influx of faith. Also, we discuss this generation's need for alternative, gentler methods for ego reduction.
Not for the faint of heart. Continuing Ch 29, we get into the details of the self-administered process for smashing the ego.
How did our patriarch Yaakov finally separate himself from his abusive father-in-law Lavan? What can we learn from this story about how to deal with people whose fragile egos feel assaulted by our very existence?Based on Hasvaaduyos 10 Kislev, Shabbos Parshas Vayeitzei 5746 pp. 655-656 and 664-666.
When Yakov received the blessings from his father Yitzchak he was dressed like his wicked brother Eisav. Why was it important to be blessed while wearing such a costume?
Which is more essential to life: material security or spiritual clarity? Looking at the first Jewish home, our mother Sarah's tent, we can answer this question and also settle an ideological debate between two great 20th century Jewish psychologists, Abraham Maslow and Viktor Frankl.
This week, we begin Chapter 29 which addresses the serious issue of spiritual apathy. What are the underlying causes for this condition and how is it remedied?
Part of the impact that a mitzvah has on the world is related to the physical effort that it requires us to expend. Avraham's healing process after his circumcision was thus essential to his bris milah having the fullest possible effect. (Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 5, p. 82.)
Should we be concerned when high profile celebrities spread anti-Jewish hatred? The answer is contained in this week's Torah portion of Vayeira.
In Chapter 28, we discuss what to do if we cannot concentrate during prayer because of distracting thoughts.
There is no real contradiction between personal growth and being an activist who helps others. The way that we discover our inner talents is by going out into the world and dealing with other people. (Based on Sefer HaSichos 5749 p. 47.)
The story of Avraham's travels in the Torah reading of Lech Lecha leads to a discussion about whether doing G-d's will is supposed to actually make our lives better.
Rabbi Taub and Avi are joined by Cantor Mendy Herz on this walk where they discuss October 31, the Lubavitcher Rebbe's visit to the Satmar Rebbe, the spiritual symbolism of walking, online antisemitism vs. online philosemitism, and other topics all on a 1.4 mile walk.
From the fact that Noah looked for signs that the flood was over we learn the importance of looking for signs of Moshiach's arrival. (Based on a sicha from 10 Tammuz 5745.)
The Jewish people have always turned to the words of Torah for comfort and strength. What important lesson does the story of Noah's Ark teaching us about the need to immerse ourselves in the holy words of Torah?
Continuing chapter 27, we discuss more of the positive contributions of the person who struggles with internal immoral impulses.
Premier episode of a new series (with Hashem's help) of Rabbi Taub and his friend Avi walking around Five Towns talking about stuff. Exercise for the mind, body, and soul.
On this walk, we discuss the synagogue of Holocaust survivors that was magically transformed once a year by special visitors, Rabbi Taub's first public speaking gig, the importance of going beyond our limits, and how the spiritual and material are both one.
How the first three verses of Torah may be read as the story of each of our lives. (Based on an article from HaKria V'HaKedusha.) In observance of the 2nd yahrzeit of R' Shneur Hirsch a"h.
Our Sages tell us that Torah begins and ends with kindness. What do these two acts of kindness teach us about when to turn to Hashem for kindness? And what parallel does this have with our journey through the High Holiday season? (Based on Igros Kodesh, vol. 2, Letter #169.)
The victory over all external enemies in the time of Moshiach will reflect the victory over all internal challenges achieved through the process of self-refinement culminated on Sukkos. (Based on sichos of Sukkos 5724 in Sichos Kodesh pp. 13-14.)
We sit in the sukkah to commemorate the clouds that Hashem protected us with when we left Egypt. What does the High Holiday season have to do with clouds? Water, representing our physicality, evaporates in the sunlight of spirituality until it becomes a refined mist. Then we start the cycle all over again on a higher level with the Prayer for Rain on Shemini Atzeres. (Based on 4th Night of Sukkos 5750 in Hisva'aduyos 5750 vol. 1 pp. 163-4.)
The "heavens" and the "earth" in our lives are Torah and mitzvos. Torah is checking in with heavenly truth and mitzvos is applying that here on earth. When Moshiach comes, the world will be completely refined and we will be close to the earth in the most ideal way. (Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 9, pp. 204-214.)
Beginning Chapter 27. We discuss the negative repercussions of shame and how to overcome feelings of moral self-condemnation.
Highlights from the Yom Kippur prayers are explained along with cantorial accompaniment from Chazan Mendy Herz.
Prepare for Rosh Hashanah prayers with insights about some of the highlights of the services. Cantorial accompaniment provided by Chazan Mendy Herz.
How do we remain joyous even when beset by painful feelings of guilt? Why is guilt so dangerous? What is the productive response when it arises? Concluding Chapter 26.
Live from Crown Heights, a gathering in honor of 18 ("Chai") Elul, the birthdays of the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe.
Continuing Chapter 26, we discuss the spiritual approach to maintaining joy even when beset by serious life problems.
How can we make the most of the upcoming school year? Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to new seminary students before the first day of school.
Successful teaching always comes down to one thing: the trusting, caring relationship between teacher and student. It is not knowledge or eloquence that makes a great teacher but the capacity to care.
This presentation was made at the beginning of the academic year staff orientation for Shulamith High School in the Five Towns, NY. https://www.shulamithhs.org/
We begin Chapter 26 which speaks of the necessity of serving Hashem joyfully. Why is joy so important?
The parable of the King in the Field has inspired Jews for centuries during the days of the month of Elul. But how can we explain such a lofty idea to small children? Rabbi Shais Taub explains based on the talks of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.
In this class we study Chapter 25 and finally conclude the long argument begun back in Chapter 18 that explains how to channel our soul's most primal survival instincts.
Concluding Chapter 24 and the explanation of the complete disconnect from Hashem that is brought about at the moment of sin.
In honor of the yahrzeit of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, the father of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, study a letter that he wrote to his son. The letter gives a taste of the Rebbe's father's complex, technical, and esoteric style as well as a glimpse into their personal relationship.
Exile is not normal and Tisha B'Av, as we know it, is not a day we should ever become comfortable with.
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks live on Tisha B'Av from Beth Gavriel Bukharian Congregation in Forest Hills on the Chazaq Tisha B'Av marathon.
Spiritual tools for emotional wellbeing based on the classic Shaar Habitachon. Recorded live at Evergreen Estates. In memory of Sima bas Mordechai HaKohen
We begin Chapter 24 which discusses the state of complete separation from G-d rendered by sin.
Concluding Chapter 23 of Tanya which describes the levels of oneness with G-d achieved through Torah study and the performance of mitzvos.
We begin Chapter 23 of Tanya which describes the levels of oneness with G-d achieved through Torah study and the performance of mitzvos.
Chabad centers from eastern and central Massachusetts gather for a special evening of tribute to the Lubavitcher Rebbe in honor of his yahrzeit on 3 Tammuz. Rabbi Shais Taub speaks about the Rebbe's vision for healing the world through uplifting the individual.
Chapter 22 of Tanya explains that idolatry is really just the belief that anything can exist outside of Hashem.
Chapter 21 of Tanya continues to discuss the metaphor of speech as a way of understanding how creation is one with the Creator.
Chapter 20 of Tanya describes the relative non-existence of created reality by way of a metaphor of speech.
In honor of the 28th yahrzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, a grand farbrengen with inspiration for Rabbi Shais Taub and Rabbi Yussie Zakutinsky, niggunim led by Jewish music superstar Benny Friedman, with master of ceremonies Nachi Gordon.
Chapter 19 of Tanya describes the instinctive nature of the G-dly soul by comparing it to a flame. Rabbi Taub connects this lesson to the Hayom Yom of 21 Sivan.
The Rebbe writes to the great Sefardic sage, the Baba Meir (son of the Baba Sali) Abuchatzeira about maintaining a connection to a tzaddik who has passed away. In a second letter, the Rebbe writes to philanthropist Julius Stulman about the need to rise to a higher spiritual level to receive the blessings of a departed tzaddik.
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks live in Crown Heights about the challenges and the advantages of parenting children in our unique age.
The Rebbe responds to a rabbi who has questions about the wording of a Lubavitcher's bar mitzvah invitation.
In this letter written to R' Shlomo Chaim Kesselman, the Rebbe urges his chasidim to reach out to Jews beyond their own community and speak to them about the importance of connecting to the Previous Rebbe.
Chapter 17 continues describing the purpose of meditation as producing emotions. It explains the meaning of the verse from the title page "This matter is very close to you..." and how that can be true even though it seems to go against our personal experience.
Chapter 16 describes the "tevunos" or quasi-emotional appreciations of Hashem felt by the Beinoni through meditation.
In Chapter 15 we learn about two distinct levels of Beinoni and the inherent value of struggle.
Concluding Ch. 14, we discuss the double language of the oath first mentioned in Ch. 1.
Chapter 14 of Tanya. We discuss the internal state of the Beinoni and the monologue that we can recite to ourselves to motivate ourselves to choose the right behaviors even when we feel conflicted.
We conclude chapter 12 of Tanya, continuing to describe the dichotomy that is the Beinoni.
We begin chapter 12 of Tanya which discusses the Beinoni. What is it that distinguishes a Beinioni from both a Tzaddik and a Rasha?
Chapter 11 deals with the very wide spectrum of personalities encompassed by the tern "rasha v'tov lo." We also contrast this level with that of the "rasha v'ra lo" who is incapable of remorse.
Chapter 10 concludes with a discussion of the "men of ascent"—another way of describing the unique personality of the complete tzaddik.
We begin Chapter 10 which speaks about two levels of tzaddik—the complete and the incomplete. What is the difference between them? How does a tzaddik regard the selfish gratification of physical pleasure?
In our study of Chapter 9 we are introduced to the parable of the two kings fighting over the small city, which helps us to understand the nature of the conflict between the two souls.
In our study of Chapter 8 we delve deeper into an understanding of the spiritual status of that which is halachically forbidden as well as how it affects the person who indulges in it.
Concluding chapter 7, we discuss the power of teshuvah to transform past sins into merits. We also discuss how to rectify the spiritual damage caused by the emission of seed in vain as well as forbidden relations.
Continuing chapter 7 and discussing how permissible acts require mindfulness in order to be elevated to holiness.
We begin Chapter 7 and discuss more in depth the idea of the "neutral" kilipah called nogah.
Learning chapter 6. The composition and modes of expression of the animal soul. The definition of holiness.
Chapter 4 of Tanya. We now learn about the soul's three "garments" of thought, speech and action as modes of expression.
End of Chapter 2. How to reconnect with your own G-dly essence. The role of having a relationship with a tzaddik.
Starting Chapter 1 of Tanya, asking questions about the categories of Tzaddik, Rasha, and Beinoni.
At a celebration of the Rebbe's 120th birthday hosted by Chabad of Long Island at the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Rabbi Shais Taub tells the story of the Rebbe's life and leadership as a narrative that parallels developments in human flight.
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to a gathering of head staff of Lubavitcher summer camps to inspire them for the summer ahead. Based on a sicha from the Lubavitcher Rebbe from 20 Av 5743, it is explained how the purpose of camp is to experience "taanug" (pleasure) in one's Judaism and that this is an even higher level than the education one receives the rest of the year in yeshiva.
What do teenagers need from their parents in order to grow up to be strong and successful adults? How can we give selflessly to our teenaged children?
How are each of the "Four Sons" from the Passover Seder really an only child? Learn how to see the Oneness in your children's souls. For more information about Rabbi Taub's upcoming parenting course go to SoulWords.org/Parenting
The final letter of the 30 Letters in 30 Days series is learned at a special farbrengen at the Ohel.
This letter, written to R' Chaim Zalman ("Chazak") Kramer of the illustrious Kramer family of early Chabad supporters in America, underscores the importance of education as the future of the Jewish people.
The Rebbe writes to someone who has experienced the favorable resolution of a problem regarding which they have written to the Rebbe in the past.
The Rebbe writes to a father and husband who says that he was rejected from a job opportunity because of his beard.
The Rebbe writes to a teacher about the importance of focusing on the small, everyday details that ultimately make the biggest difference in a child's life.
The Rebbe writes to the Shomrei Shabbos Free Loan Society on the occasion of their yearly dinner and explains the unique spiritual greatness of the mitzvah of giving a loan. In memory of R' Yochanon Gordon and R' Shimon Goldman. Dedicated by their Families.
The Rebbe guides parents whose adult son has strayed from the path of Jewish observance.
The Jewish people never managed to leave Egypt; they had to be removed by Hashem. From the story of the Exodus we can learn what it means to be stuck in a situation from which we cannot extricate ourselves and how to allow Hashem to do for us what we cannot.
The Rebbe writes to a father about his son who is extremely preoccupied with concerns of how he will make a living.
The Rebbe explains why writing often to report one's activities will bring out hidden potentials and abilities that would otherwise lie dormant.
The Rebbe explains why it's so important to make a personal habit of writing to the Rebbe with good news.
The Rebbe explains what it requires for the blessings of a Rebbe to be effective. Just as rain only makes things grow after plowing and planting, so must the recipient of a blessing make adequate preparations for the blessing to take hold.
The Rebbe outlines the program for a women's gathering to honor 10 Shvat, the yahrzeit of the Previous Rebbe.
The Rebbe responds to someone who wants to know how to get started carrying out Chabad outreach activities.
The Rebbe writes to his relative Mrs. Devorah Leah Horenstein that nostalgia and memories must bring to practical action.
The Rebbe writes to a group of young women and protests the self-deprecating manner in which they describe themselves.
The Rebbe writes to a mashgiach in the Toras Emes yeshiva in Jerusalem about the importance of educating students beyond their academic studies.
The Rebbe asks someone who deals with Israeli soldiers if he can encourage them to correspond with him.
The Rebbe writes to a teachers' union warning them about the irrevocable harm that can be caused by a teachers' strike.
The Rebbe expresses pain about young people who are overly fixated on how they will make a living in the future.
The role of a Jewish school was once merely to ensure that a child become an educated Jew. Today, however, the school's purpose is far more basic than that, i.e. to see to it that the child remain within the fold of Judaism. Torah institutions must appeal to all kinds of Jews and it is not worth the risk of turning someone away by affiliating the school with anything connected to politics or partisanship.
Each one of us has a special mitzvah in which we are meant to shine more than others. One must be extra vigilant about this particular mitzvah and realize that the evil inclination will try to distract us from it even by getting us to do good things that are not our special mitzvah.
The Rebbe gives advice to Rabbi Herschel Shusterman a"h of Chicago about dealing with both youth and adults.
The Rebbe writes to a husband who blames his lack of spiritual growth on his wife. The Rebbe does not accept this excuse and implores him to resolve his own lack of clarity and then he will see that his wife is his greatest support.
This letter was written by the Rebbe to a young bride encouraging her to be an "early adopter" of certain chasidic customs including covering her hair with a "sheitel."
The inaugural class of a series on studying the published letters of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Rabbi Taub provides a brief background about the letters printed in Igros Kodesh and then studies one letter.
This letter was addressed to the men and boys of Kfar Chabad in Israel and discusses the need to balance chasidic fervor with attention to one's home life as well as how one can actually enhance the other.
Over the years, the Rebbe answered tens of thousands of letters, a portion of which are printed in the series known as Igros Kodesh. In these letters, we find a treasure trove of compassion, wisdom, faith, and practicality—but perhaps most importantly, a direct path to personal insight into the Rebbe's approach to a vast range of life's issues.
Join Rabbi Shais Taub together with people from all over the world in studying Thirty Letters in Thirty Days during the month leading up to the celebration of the Rebbe's 120th birthday on 11 Nissan.
SoulWords.org/Letters
The Four Cups Haggadah is a new Passover Haggadah full of spiritual insights for those in recovery. Rabbi Shais Taub, author of the Jewish recovery classic "G-d of Our Understanding" speaks with Rabbi Nechemia Schusterman about the background behind this new resource for the recovery community. #recovery#twelvesteps For more information or to order the Four Cups Recovery Haggadah go to: https://fourcups.org
Rabbi Shais Taub searches for the quintessential Jewish joke by examining the main tropes of Jewish humor. In the process, he tells dozens of classic Jewish jokes. Hilarious and thought-provoking.
Rabbi Shais Taub asks a group of Yeshiva University students why they think they came to Crown Heights for Shabbos.
Does consciousness exist separate from the body? How does the soul experience memories of its life in this world? How can we communicate with loved ones who are in heaven? Rabbi Shais Taub discusses the Jewish view of how consciousness operates after the passing of the physical body.
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to parents of children in crisis about the need to adopt a spiritual view of one's children. Rabbi Taub discusses "unconditional pride" and what it means to see each child as a soul.
(This talk was presented as a keynote presentation at the Kesher Nafshi retreat.)
In a presentation combining military strategy, European history, psychology, and kabbalah, Rabbi Shais Taub explains why the Alter Rebbe told his grandson the Tzemach Tzedek that the chasidic approach to personal refinement was actually based on the battle strategy of Prussian King Frederick the Great.
In order to understand this cryptic statement, we delve into the fascinating history of the "world war" that took place between all of the European empires during the Alter Rebbe's youth and how Frederick the Great of Prussia developed a new battle strategy which was then identified by the Maggid's son, R' Avraham the Malach, as the conduit for revealing a brand new strategy for waging the inner battle between the animal and G-dly souls.
Look at some of the fascinating similarities between these two great rabbis whose yahzreits are 20 and 24 Teives respectively.
Do your children know who they are? In this class, Rabbi Shais Taub explains how identity is the foundation of education.
Other topics covered include: proper use of incentives and rewards, how to teach values to very young children, and what to do about children asking "deep" questions.
This class was recorded at a gathering of graduates of the Parenting from the Inside Out Webinar who met at the Ohel of the Lubavitcher Rebbe to pray for each other and their families.
The Bais Yaakov (son of the Izhbitzer) explains a deeper truth about sins against G-d and how they reconcile with a divine plan that can never be abrogated. In the parsha, Yosef explains to his brothers that they did not send him to Egypt but rather G-d sent him. What Yosef was trying to communicate to them was that even if they were sinning, their actions still aligned on a deeper level with a G-dly intent.
R' Tzadok HaKohen in his Resisei Layla describes the mystical meaning of the holiday of Chanukah. In this class, we learn sections of chapter 57 which explain why the story of Chanukah was never recorded as a book of the Jewish Bible but instead is a story that is told by the flames of the Menorah.
A discussion between brothers Shais and Dovid Taub about adopting a “Moshiach mindset” regarding modern social and political trends. Recorded for the Tut Altz learning program from Merkos 302.
The Bnei Yisaschar explains how the 36 lights of the eight nights of Chanukah help us get ready for the revelation of spiritual light that will take place when Moshiach comes.
The Alter Rebbe writes a letter to his chasidim after his release from prison warning them not to gloat over their adversaries. Rather, he explains, they should conduct themselves like Yaakov our father who responded to G-d's kindnesses toward him by feeling exceedingly humble.
The Shelah explains the deeper reason why Yaakov Avinu spoke about marital intimacy in ways that may seem inappropriate to us.
In honor of the month of Kislev, the month of the revelation of the inner dimension of Torah, Rabbi Shais Taub discusses how various mystical concepts from the kabbalah are applied practically through chasidus. These spiritual ideas, when implemented in day to day life, make up your "spiritual toolkit."
The unique praise of Yaakov Avinu is that all of his offspring followed in his path. What was Yaakov Avinu's secret to success in marriage and raising children?
In an edited farbrengen from 5725, the Rebbe explains how success at home has to do with knowing when to not really be present and when to be completely focused.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 5, pp. 376-378.
The Sfas Emes explains that the greatness of Sarah our Matriarch is that no matter what was going on in her life, she retained her connection to G-d so that, from her perspective, it could truly be said that every day of her life was "a good day."
The Shem MiShmuel asks how Avraham could plead for mercy on behalf of the people of Sodom when they were so cruel to others. Isn't kindness to the Sodomites actually cruelty to their victims?
The Ben Ish Chai explains how Avraham Avinu was able to exhibit astounding alacrity when it came to doing mitzvos yet when he needed to deal with mundane matters he remained emotionally detached.
How Noach fell short as the spiritual leader of his generation. A textual study of the Kedushas Levi (R' Levi Yitzchak Berditcherver) on the Torah portion of Noach.
At the Thursday Night Men's Cholent class.
What’s the difference whether we view Judaism as our cultural heritage or we view Judaism as G-d’s program for us how to live?
A Midrash says that in the merit that Avraham told his guests, "recline yourselves under the tree," his descendants were given the mitzvah of sukkah. We know that shade from a tree is not a valid sukkah. Why was Avraham’s “proto-sukkah” a decidedly un-kosher sukkah?
Avraham's rooted tree is the symbol of human greatness while the detached branches that we use as s'chach represent growing beyond the heights of finite potential.
Based on Reshimos #62.
A pre-Yom Kippur talk on the necessity of rising above toxic shame and embracing teshuvah with joy.
What does the Torah portion of Vayeilech reveal about the hidden joy within Shabbos Shuvah?
Based on Sefer HaSichos 5749 pp. 6-7.
Is your relationship with Hashem business or personal? As we head into the Shmita year it is important for each one of us to answer this question. Rabbi Shais Taub explains why.
Rabbi Shais Taub talks about creating a meaningful yom tov for those recovering from trauma.
The Rebbe's "Education Campaign" (Mivtzah Chinuch) is remarkable in a number of ways including the idea that children are not only supposed to receive an education but also act as educators themselves. This class describes the history of this campaign as well as its connection to the Lag B'Omer parades, children's rallies, and the Twelve Pesukim.
Eleventh in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
Is everything G-d does really for the good? If so, are we meant to always feel that way?
Two classic Aramaic translations of a single word represent two different perspectives on evil.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19, pp. 133-139.
Understanding the relationship between a leader and his people from the fact that Moshe was blamed for the sin of the Golden Calf although he was not present when it happened.
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 21, p. 175.
The Torah describes the mitzvah of the arm Tefilin as an action ("you shall bind them... on your arm") whereas the mitzvah of the head Tefilin is described as a state of being ("they should be... on your head.") What is the legal and mystical distinction between these two expressions? What does it teach us about the difference between the mind and the heart?
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 39, pp. 22-29.
In our day, Moshiach must be much more than an abstract belief. We must begin to live with an awareness of Moshiach's imminent arrival.
Tenth in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
Rabbi Shais Taub at the Evergreen Estates Women's Day of Learning addresses the topic of what our teens really need most from us today.
In this week's portion, Moshe blesses the people "May you be multiplied one thousand-fold and may G-d do for you that which He said about you." What are these two blessings? And why is the second one so vague?
Hear the strange story of when the Baal Shem Tov and his students bankrupted a poor man by literally eating him out of house and home. What does this teach us about the need to pray? And how is this connected to the Alshich's explanation of Mother Rochel's tears? Why do we need to cry out to Hashem for Moshiach?
Based on Hiva'aduyos, vol. 34, p. 209.
In this week's Haftarah, the prophet Yirmiyahu rebukes his people: "They say to the wood, 'You are my father,' and to the stone, 'You gave birth to me.'" What are the "stone" and "wood" of our day? How do we identify and rectify the idol worship in our own lives?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17, p. 145.
The Rebbe's tefilin campaign began in 1967 on the eve of the Six Day War as a manner of invoking merit and Divine protection for the Jewish people. It quickly became apparent that it was also much more than that. What is the unique and enduring significance of the tefilin campaign?
Ninth in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
The worship of Ba'al Peor was considered loathsome even by pagans. How were so many Jews in the wilderness attracted to it?
The truth is that the core belief of Ba'al worship is very much alive and prevalent today in the worldview known as materialism.
How do we combat this popular ideology that reduces all reality to physical things? How do we bring an appreciation for spirituality back to this world?
Based on Reshimos #50.
The Babylonian Talmud says that the walls of Jerusalem were broken by the Babylonians on 9 Tammuz while the Jerusalem Talmud says it happened on 17 Tammuz. How do we reconcile these two accounts?
What is the "Butterfly Effect" or the "Alternate Timeline Theory"? Is there a concept in Torah that historical events have the potential to go in two very different directions?
How should we view seemingly negative events in our lives?
Based on Sichos Kodesh 5741, vol. 4, pp. 175-7.
The Torah portion of Chukas describes the passing of Aharon and how his loss was greatly mourned by the Jewish people. Why was Aharon so universally beloved? And what can we learn from this about our own hidden potential?
Based on Sichos Kodesh 5741, vol. 4, pp. 439-440.
Why do we prayer toward the Land of Israel? What is the advantage of praying a holy place? Are the places other than Israel that also afford us this advantage? Where on earth is heaven considered a "local call"?
Rabbi Taub studies an excerpt from a talk by the Rebbe about the unique advantage of prayer at the resting place of the righteous.
This text-based class took place at Beth Rivkah Seminary in Crown Heights.
Booklet prepared courtesy of Lahak Hanachos.
Why did 250 followers of Korach accept a challenge that they knew would lead to their deaths? And why did Moshe tell them that he empathized with their desire?
In preparation for the Rebbe's yahrzeit on 3 Tammuz, we consider the Rebbe's call for every Jew to assume a role of leadership.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 18, pp. 187-195.
Why do we have to know that the mission of the Spies took place "in the days of the ripening of the grapes"? What eternal lesson is there for us? How is life like a grape? Why are the Spies described as "men"? What does this teach us about the differences between men and women in terms of their approach to integrating spirituality with the material world?
Also, how did Kaleiv know that the spies could no longer be trusted just because they answered Moshe's questions out of order?
Based on Hisva'aduyos 5750 vol 3, pp. 342-3.
How can mothers of young children make the best use of the summer and some of the challenges it brings when the children are home?
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to the inaugural gathering of BRanches, an initiative to unite mothers of Bais Rivkah students.
Anyone could light the Menorah in the Temple, even a non-kohen; yet only a kohen could prepare the wicks and oil. What is the deeper meaning of this law and how does it apply to our lives?
Whose responsibility is it to light the fame of Yiddishkeit in the hearts of other Jews?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 2, p. 317.
Every country takes a census. What is unique about the census of the Jewish people is that it is carried out directly by none other than Moshe himself. We see from this that when it comes to anything dealing with the Jewish people, nothing less than the most dignified treatment is called for. This helps us understand the greatness of each individual Jew.
We may also apply this lesson to the task of raising children. What meditation did the Rebbe recommend to a young father to help him be a better parent? Also, the Rebbe describes what a person should think about when he sees a Jewish baby in a stroller.
Based on 28 Iyar 5745 to N'shei Ubnos Chabad, Hisvaaduyos 5745 vol. 4, pp. 2092-5.
In this week's portion of Bechukosai, the Torah promises us: "And I will remove the wild beast from the land." The Midrash relates an argument between R' Yehudah and R' Shimon as to exactly what this will mean in the times of Moshiach. Will there no longer be wild beasts or will the wild beasts become tame?
How does the Rogatchover Gaon explain this dispute and connect it to the prohibition of chametz on Pesach? How does this give us insight into two approaches to managing the inner conflict with our own wild side? What does the "evolution" of chametz over the 49 days of Sefira teach us about personal transformation?
Likkutei Sichos, vol. 7, pp. 188-197.
When does Torah say that we need to be forced to give? What did the Lubavitcher Rebbe tell a philanthropist's wife about the secret of giving? What is the difference giving that is human and giving that is G-dly?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 17, pp. 255-66.
What do you do when it seems that even Hashem has given up on you? The question arises based on Rashi's commentary that the future Destruction of the First Temple was already hinted to in the Torah. We examine the paradigmatic story of Elisha ben Avuya seemingly being rejected from doing repentance.
Based on Toras Menachem 5746 vol. 3, pp. 195-6, 208-9.
Dr. Janina Fisher, PhD talks to Rabbi Shais Taub about topics including what it really means to identify the Jewish community as a "traumatized community;" how children's spirituality and faith are influenced by the kind of relationship they have with their parents; and healing from trauma as a personal and collective redemptive process.
Dr. Janina Fisher, PhD is a licensed Clinical Psychologist and Instructor at the Trauma Center, an outpatient clinic and research center founded by Bessel van der Kolk. Known for her expertise as both a therapist and consultant, she is also past president of the New England Society for the Treatment of Trauma and Dissociation, an EMDR International Association Credit Provider, a faculty member of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute, and a former Instructor, Harvard Medical School.
For more information about the Fresh Start Retreat Center visit www.thefsrc.com or call 888-373-7481.
Rabbi Shimon Russell, LCSW, talks to Rabbi Shais Taub about the topic of religious trauma in the observant Jewish community.
Rabbi Shimon Russell is a psychotherapist in private practice in Jerusalem. He holds an MSW from Rutgers Graduate School of Social Work and completed the Clinical externship program at the prestigious Ackerman Institute for Family Therapy in NY.
For more information about the Fresh Start Retreat Center visit www.thefsrc.com or call 888-373-7481.
Dr. Reggie Melrose, PhD talks to Rabbi Shais Taub about topics including the limits of talk therapy; why people with trauma have a special ability to help others with trauma; and the plight of "sensitive souls" for whom life itself can be traumatic.
Dr. Reggie Melrose, PhD is the best-selling author of The 60 Seconds Fix. She is a well-known international speaker and consultant specializing in the application of current neuroscience to educational practice and parenting. She completed Dr. Peter Levine’s Somatic Experiencing (SE) three-year training program to become an SE Practitioner.
For more information about the Fresh Start Retreat Center visit www.thefsrc.com or call 888-373-7481.
Dr. Kenneth M. Adams talks to Rabbi Shais Taub about topics including addiction as an intimacy disorder; the negative cycle of shame in addiction particularly in religious communities; and how the last "spiritual assignment" of the parent is to allow their adult children to shift loyalties from their family of origin to the family they are building with their spouse.
Dr. Adams is a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a CSAT supervisor, and CSAT training facilitator as well as an EMDR practitioner. Dr. Patrick Carnes, internationally recognized expert on sex addiction, wrote the following in his review of Dr. Adam's first book, Silently Seduced: “Ken Adams, is one of those rare combinations of competence as a writer, clinician, and researcher. This book is developing a loyal readership fast, which is probably because Ken is one of the more astute observers of the connections between shame, abuse, and sex addiction.”
For more information about the Fresh Start Retreat Center visit www.thefsrc.com or call 888-373-7481.
Jacob Ham, PhD talks to Rabbi Shais Taub about topics including "epigenetic" transmission of Holocaust trauma in Jewish families; the effects of childhood neglect on adults; and how the opposite of trauma is learning to live in the present.
Jacob Ham, PhD is Director of the Center for Child Trauma and Resilience in New York and Associate Clinical Professor at the Department of Psychiatry of the Icahn School of Medicine.
For more information about the Fresh Start Retreat Center visit www.thefsrc.com or call 888-373-7481.
Part 2 of a two part webinar on the topic of religious parents whose children have chosen a different path.
Part 1 of a two part webinar on the topic of religious parents whose children have chosen a different path.
What is the key to emotional healing? What are common traps that people fall into when trying to better themselves? Where does Yiddishkeit come into the picture? What do you need to know before starting any program of self-improvement?
Whether it is therapy, recovery, or any other approach, there are certain basic principles one needs to know in order to do it successfully and al pi Torah. In this 2-part webinar, Rabbi Taub will answer these questions and much more. Whether you have been working on yourself for years or just now thinking of getting started, this is for you.
Rabbi Shais Taub is well known as a compassionate spiritual guide who provides Torah-based support to people of all walks of life. He will address these essential topics which you will be able to apply to your own growth.
What is the key to emotional healing? What are common traps that people fall into when trying to better themselves? Where does Yiddishkeit come into the picture? What do you need to know before starting any program of self-improvement?
Whether it is therapy, recovery, or any other approach, there are certain basic principles one needs to know in order to do it successfully and al pi Torah. In this 2-part webinar, Rabbi Taub will answer these questions and much more. Whether you have been working on yourself for years or just now thinking of getting started, this is for you.
Rabbi Shais Taub is well known as a compassionate spiritual guide who provides Torah-based support to people of all walks of life. He will address these essential topics which you will be able to apply to your own growth.
Rabbi Shais Taub is renowned for his sensitive and wise answers to the questions that so many of us are facing. In his column Ask Rabbi Shais Taub in the Ami Magazine as well as his two books The Ami Letters Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 he has shown his tried and true formula for delving to the heart of the matter. Now he wants to teach you how to do the same thing.
Learn skills such as:
How to figure out what someone is really askingHow to validate and encourage even while disagreeingHow to answer the questioner not the questionHow to find the solution in the problem
Rabbi Shais Taub is renowned for his sensitive and wise answers to the questions that so many of us are facing. In his column Ask Rabbi Shais Taub in the Ami Magazine as well as his two books The Ami Letters Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 he has shown his tried and true formula for delving to the heart of the matter. Now he wants to teach you how to do the same thing.
Learn skills such as:
How to figure out what someone is really askingHow to validate and encourage even while disagreeingHow to answer the questioner not the questionHow to find the solution in the problem
The most obvious expression of an essence is in its lowest manifestations. Indeed, the Torah which is beyond even the highest of worlds is described as being the remedy for the lowest problems of the lowest world.
(Chs. 18-19)
The conclusion reached by each of the four levels of Torah interpretation is compatible with that of all the others.
Furthermore, within each level we repeatedly see the theme of how the particulars are not in contradiction with the whole.
(Chs. 16-17)
We revisit the sod interpretation of Modeh Ani that souls are restored when Malchus unites with Yesod. How does chasidus explain this in a way that we can understand?
(Ch. 15.)
The remez interpretation of Modeh Ani is that it alludes to the Resurrection of the Dead that will occur in the times of Moshiach. How can we compare something as mundane as waking up each morning to something as monumental as the resurrection?
The drush interpretation of Modeh Ani is that just like Hashem returns our souls to us, so should we not hold on to the assets of a debtor even though such a prohibition may seem impractical and even senseless.
(Chs. 13-14)
The explanation of Modeh Ani according to chasidus is that nothing can defile the purity of a Jew's simple gratitude expressed in this prayer.
The pshat explanation as illuminated by chasidus is that the only true life is a connection with Hashem. From the perspective of the four levels of the soul, G-d enhances one's life. From the perspective of yechidah, G-d is one's life.
(Chs. 11-12)
The number of subjects dealt with in Torah is infinite. We will focus on the Modeh Ani prayer because of its foundational nature and use it as our example of how the four levels of Torah interpretation differ from one another as well as how chasidus illuminates all of them.
(Chs. 9-10)
Chasidus not only helps to explain ideas on the levels of pshat, remez, drush, and sod; it brings out a completely new vitality in all of these levels.
(Ch. 8)
The various innovations brought about by chasidus are but outer manifestations of its true essence, the concept of yechida. We use oil as a metaphor to describe the paradoxical nature of yechida and every essence—while it remains distinct from all parts it is simultaneously found in all parts.
(Chs. 6-7)
To better understand the essence of Chasidus, we need to first understand the essence of Moshiach. The end of exile, the proliferation of G-dly knowledge, the change in the natural order, and even the revelation of eternality within time are all but manifestations of the essential point of Moshiach. The essence of Moshiach is that the "yechida" of all the worlds will be revealed.
(Chs. 4-5)
The four proposed definitions of chasidus (ch. 1) are all just particular manifestations of the essence of chasidus, but they do not capture the essence of chasidus which is infinite.
Similarly, all good and truth that may be found in any manmade system may be found in Torah, but this is not the essence of Torah.
On the Essence of Chasidus (Chs. 2-3)
What is chasidus and what was its chief innovation? We look at four possible answers: 1) Chasidus saved the world from spiritual crisis; 2) Chasidus is an ethical system for going beyond the letter of the law; 3) Chasidus is a system for transforming one's character traits; 4) Chasidus is a language for communicating kabbalistic ideas in relatable terms.
The campaign for Torah study began with the Rebbe's call to "conquer the world through the study of Torah." What is so transformative about Torah study? How do we make Torah part of our lives?
Eighth in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
The great and overarching principle of the Torah is "Love your fellow as yourself." This is also the tenth of the Rebbe's ten Mitzvah Campaigns. What is the meaning of "ahavas Yisrael" practically and conceptually?
Seventh in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
It is a positive commandment to write one's own Torah scroll. How is this mitzvah fulfilled through participating in a communal Sefer Torah?
What is the fascinating story behind the Jewish Children's Sefer Torah which was written in 1981?
Sixth in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
The mitzvah of Taharas HaMishpacha (literally "family purity") is the core of Jewish life. It governs the intimate life of Jewish spouses and preserves the sanctity of that relationship.
Fifth in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
In 1974 the Rebbe launched the campaign known as Bais Malei Sefarim, literally "a home full of books." What is the importance of furnishing one's home with an abundance of holy books?
Fourth in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
Why is tzedaka considered the quintessential mitzvah? In what way does tzedaka accomplish more than any other mitzvah?
Third in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
The campaign for Shabbos candles (neiros Shabbos Kodesh or neshek) was launched by the Rebbe to combat spiritual darkness in the world. How can even one small candle bring light to the whole world?
Second in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
The Mezuzah campaign was launched in 1974 and received added attention and urgency in connection with the Ma'alot massacre in May of that year. How does the mezuzah protect us? Why did the Rebbe compare a mezuzah to a helmet worn by a soldier on the battlefield?
First in a series of classes on the mitzvah campaigns ("Mivtzaim") of the Rebbe and part of the "Every Home a Sanctuary" initiative at Chabad of the Five Towns. Dedicated in memory of Dina Leah Rosenzweig OB"M.
Our Sages say that Torah both begins and ends with an act of kindness. Is this only to teach us the importance of kindness or is there a deeper lesson?
From a letter written during Aseres Yemei HaTeshuvah 5705, the Rebbe explains an amazing lesson for each of us in our own spiritual highs and lows of life.
Based on Igros Kodesh vol. 2, p. 1-3.
Following the Song of Haazinu, it says that Moshe and Yehoshua taught the song together. Rashi explains that this was in order that the people should not later question the authority of Yeshoshua when he became Moshe's successor.
Why was this important and why did most people misunderstand who Yehoshua was?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 29, pp. 199-202.
The Torah reading of Nitzavim always comes before Rosh Hashanah. How does its opening verse of "all of you are standing today... to pass into the covenant with G-d" teach us the secret for preparing for the New Year? And what's the difference between tolerance and interdependence?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 2, pp. 398-401.
In this week's Torah portion, a word appears twice that has no exact parallel in Scripture: "he'emarta" and "he'emircha" in the verses "G-d has set you apart to be his nation" and "You have set G-d apart to be your L-rd." Rashi says that the only similar word in Scripture is in Psalms where it says "the sinners are proud (yisamru) of their sins." Why does this word describing G-d's special relationship with his people appear in a verse with such a negative connotation? Why did the Berditchiver tell the sinner that he was jealous of his reward in the World to Come? When is it good to be proud of your sins?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 9, pp. 162-174.
The month of Elul is described as a powerful time when G-d is accessible or "the king is in the field." How is this connected to the Torah portion of Ki Seitzei?
Rashi comments on a verse in this week's portion that we should follow the rulings of Torah judges “even if the judge tells you that right is left, and that left is right." Does this mean that if reality is one way, and a rabbi makes a halachic decision the opposite way, the Torah wants us to go against reality?
The answer can be found in the difference between laws that respond to reality and laws that create reality.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 5, pp. 127-8.
This week's parsha contains the prohibition against destroying even one stone of the Bais Hamikdash. How then, according to His own rules, did Hashem permit Himself to tear down the entire building, unleashing all the pain and tribulations of Exile that came with it?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 29, pp. 11-14.
What is the deeper spiritual meaning of the mitzvah to feed one's animals before oneself?
The Rebbe unlocks a hidden message in a story from the Talmud (Pesachim 3b) about the wheat and barley harvests and reveals a central teaching about spiritual growth.
Based on Sefer HaSichos 5750, pp. 277-280.
This week's Haftorah begins with the prophecy: "Nachamu, nachamu ami, comfort, comfort my people." Why the double expression of consolation?
The answer can be found in the strange Talmudic story of R' Akiva laughing upon seeing foxes walk out of the ruins of the Temple.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 19, pp. 67-79.
In this week's portion we read: “You are the least of all the peoples." How can something so tiny be so powerful? At a Purim farbrengen, the Rebbe compared the power of the Jew to the power of the atom bomb. Based on Toras Menachem Vol. 2, pp. 313-319.
We look at two perspectives on Jewish identity. What is the difference between being Jewish "in spite of" and being Jewish "because of"? What is the difference between mourning and yearning? And why does Jewish identity, like a car, need to have both a "windshield" and a "rearview mirror"?
Based on Shabbos Chazon, Tisha B'Av Nidche, 5748, Hisva'aduyos pp. 114-121.
The Baal Shem Tov taught that each and every one of us will go through forty-two stages in our lives corresponding to the forty-two travels of the Jews in the wilderness.
Does this mean that our biography is already written? Is everything "pre-scripted"? Also, some of the incidents in the wilderness were disasters where our forefathers made terrible choices. Does that mean we're fated to make these same choices?
Based on a farbrengen from Mattos-Masei 5719.
This week's reading tells us how the tribe of Reuven conquered land from the Emorites and renamed their cities. What is the connection between Reuven and the concept of renaming cities? And what is the connection between this episode and the Three Weeks?
To answer these questions, we look at the transformative power of positive language.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 33, p. 198.
How does Moshe's handling of the case of Tzelafchad's daughters teach us about the dangers of partisanship and how it can cloud objective thinking?
Based on a sicha from the 3rd Night of Sukkos, 5747, Hisva'aduyos pp. 209-211.
On the verse from Bilaam's prophecy "a ruler will come forth from Jacob," Rashi explains, "this is Moshiach who will 'rule from sea to sea and from the river to the ends of the earth.'"
What does it mean to "rule from sea to sea" in one's own life? What is "the river" and how does that take each one of us "to the ends of the earth"?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 38, pp. 100-102.
In the Laws of the Red Heifer, Maimonides adds a few extra words that seem to be out of character. The Rebbe analyzes their significance as a powerful lesson to us about Jewish "trigger words."
What words trigger you as a Jew? What words evoke an instant and intense reaction? Is Moshiach a trigger word for you? Does your search engine think so?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 28, pp. 135-136.
After Korach's failed rebellion against the High Priesthood, the Torah delineates the division of labor between kohahim and levi'im. The name Levi means "attachment," specifically attachment to G-d. But the function of the Levi was to assist the Kohein and the Kohein was the one who actually performed the service. How do we understand this discrepancy?
Why did the Rebbe tell Bibi Netenyahu in 1988 that he, the Rebbe, was only starting his work? What do you and I have in common with the Chief Rabbi of England and America's first African-American female member of Congress? And what gift can we give the Rebbe on 3 Tammuz?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 28, pp. 115-123.
Why are the libation offerings discussed immediately after the debacle of the spies?
Why did R' Yochanan say that anyone who says Shema without tefilin is like someone who brings a sacrifice without libations?
What is the story of the Alter Rebbe's niggun "K'ayal"? How did it reach us? What is its meaning? Why does it juxtapose two seemingly unrelated verses?
Why does every spiritual high need to be expressed in practical deed?
Based on Maamar Lehavin Inyan Parshas HaNisachim, Shlach 5747.
Why did G-d prevent the entire nation from tasting garlic and other flavors in the manna just because this would damage nursing mothers? What lesson does this teach us about the power of the individual?
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 33, pp. 76-77.
This week's portion contains the mitzvah to confess one's sins before G-d. As the Rambam writes in his Sefer HaMitzvos, "We were commanded to confess our sins before G-d when we repent." Interestingly, though, the Rambam does not count repentance itself as a mitzvah. What does it mean that teshuvah is not a mitzvah?
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 38, pp. 18-25.
The Torah portion of Bamidbar is always read before Shavuos. What is the connection between this portion whose name means "in the desert" and the holiday of receiving the Torah?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 8, pp. 236-9.
The mitzvah of the sabbatical year allows the land to rest and replenish itself every seven years. Lest one be concerned, "What will we eat in the seventh year" the Torah tells us that "the sixth year will give three years' worth of bounty."
But if the land is so depleted in the sixth year that it needs to rest, how can the sixth year produce three years' worth of food?
To understand this paradox, we look at another paradox, the fact that there was a college campus where the Chabad House stopped serving matzo ball soup because the kids didn't know what it was.
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 27, pp. 189-190.
In the parsha of Emor, we learn about many rules of kohanim including that their slaves can eat terumah. Since we don't give terumah to kohanim today and we don't have slaves, what can we possibly learn from this?
According to our Sages, eating without a blessing is like misappropriating consecrated property. How is it possible that making a blessing can change this status?
To understand this, we have to answer the question: With all his money, what is the only way that Bill Gates could ever get to fly an F-15?
Based on Sefer HaSichos 5751 vol. 2, p. 847.
The mitzvah of orlah, not eating the fruit of a tree for the first three years has an element which is difficult to understand. For the first three years, the fruit is forbidden; in the fourth year, it is holy; finally, in the fifth year and after, it is spiritually neutral. Why is the ultimate state not holy but ordinary?
To understand this, we must explain why it's better to have more money than to go to a higher place in heaven.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 7, pp. 134-8.
The Kohen Gadol's special clothing on Yom Kippur was never used again, even on a future Yom Kippur. What does this teach us about the “mechanics” of atonement. How can a person “undo” his past?
To understand this, we must come to a better understanding of what the Rambam writes that a true penitent is actually not the same person he was when he sinned.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 28, pp. 224-5.
Before Moshiach’s coming, says the Talmud, “all governments will turn to heresy. ”Why should wholesale moral degradation be a sign of imminent redemption? The Talmud explains by citing a counterintuitive law from this week’s Torah reading: “He has turned completely white; he is pure," meaning that if one's whole body turns the color of the tzara'as malady, he is actually pronounced ritually pure.
How are we to understand the Talmud’s prediction about Moshiach as well as this strange law of tzara’as?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 32, pp. 77-83.
When should we expect Moshiach to arrive? What should be the basis of our faith in his arrival?
An answer can be found in this week's portion where we read about the prohibition against a kohen drinking wine before entering the Holy Temple. According to the Rambam, this prohibition stands today, which means that Moshiach can arrive with a fully functional Temple in less than twenty-four minutes.
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 2, pp. 618-9 and Sichos Kodesh 5715, p. 335.
What does it mean to be truly alive? Based on one understanding of the laws of the thanksgiving offering, the greatest life is actually when life is challenged, disrupted, and threatened.
Based on Hisva'aduyos 5745 vol. 4, pp. 2520-2526.
What does it really mean to make a sacrifice? What is true selflessness?
In addition to the regular animal and flour offerings brought to the Holy Temple, people could also volunteer to donate wood to be used as fuel on the altar. These "wood offerings" give us insight into what selflessness really means.
Based on Likkutei Sichos, vol. 22, pp. 7-13.
This week's Torah portion contains the prohibition against kindling a fire on Shabbos.
What does this teach us about the role of spiritual inspiration in Jewish life?
Based on Sicha of 22 Shvat, Sefer HaSichos 5749 vol. 1, pp. 225-237.
Why were the Ten Commandments given on two tablets? What does this teach us about the equal importance of the "do's" and the "dont's" of Judaism?
We look at the often overlooked importance of the things that we don't do, offering the great Jewish baseball player Sandy Koufax as a prime example.
Based on Hisva’aduyos 5751, vol. 2, pp. 353-354; Sichos Kodesh, Yom Simchas Torah 5733, pp. 81-83.
According to a sketch made by the Rambam, the decorative goblets on the Menorah were upside down. How can we understand this when the halacha is that all items in the Sanctuary need to be right side up? The answer requires us to turn some of our assumptions on their head.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 21, pp. 164-171.
Why is this name of this portion "Terumah" (lit. "donation") when the main point of the portion is what the donations were used for—namely the construction of the Sanctuary?
To understand this, we examine the unique transformational effect of giving.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 21, pp. 146-155.
This week's portion is the source for the idea that we should seek medical treatment when in need of healing. But if Torah says we should go to doctors, why does the Talmud say: "the best of doctors are bound for purgatory? Clearly this does not mean what it seems to.
We need to also understand how healing actually works. Also, when should one listen to the doctor and when should one not listen?
Based on Toras Menachem vol. 16, pp. 100-101; Likkutei Sichos, vol. 36, p. 274; Toras Menachem, vol. 15, p. 16; Likkutei Sichos, vol. 31, pp. 264-267.
Why does it say that the Jewish people were doing their laundry before the revelation at Sinai? And what does this teach us about the proper relationship between the shepherds of the Jewish people and their flock?
Based on Hayom Yom, 5 Sivan.
How do you deal with people and situations that leave a bitter taste in your mouth?
Find out by analyzing a strange story that takes place in this week's Torah reading about the bitter waters at Marah.
Why does Midrash say that the waters became bitter only after the Jews arrived? Why did the waters in their canteens turn bitter, too? What does this teach us about dealing with negative people and situations?
Based on 15 Shvat 5720, Hisva'aduyos vol. 27 pp. 361-3.
Which takes precedence in Torah—the person or the group? Does Judaism promote an individualist society or a collectivist society?
For an understanding of the true nature of Jewish identity, we look at the first mitzvah performed by the Jewish people while still in Egypt, the Pesach offering.
Based on Michtav Klali Pesach 5739 reprinted in Likkutei Sichos vol. 17, pp. 435-439.
Hashem told Moshe to deliver his messages to Pharaoh in Hebrew, a language that Pharaoh did not even understand. Why was this? And what surprising lesson can we learn from this about effective communication? How is this skill also useful in dealing with our own ego when it refuses to listen to reason?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 16, pp. 73-75.
What is the most important idea to know in Judaism?
The name of the second book of the Five Books of Moses is known as Shmos in Hebrew, meaning "names." How is "names" a fitting title for a book about how the Jewish people descended into and left Egypt?
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 6, p. 243.
Before his passing, Yaakov asks his son, Yosef, to bury him in Chevron although he did not do the same for Yosef's mother, Rachel. Yaakov then proceeds to explain his reasons to Yosef, as Rashi says, "I know that your heart is troubled with me about that."
But why was Yosef troubled? Did he doubt his father until he heard an explanation?
To understand this we need to first appreciate why Jews ask so many questions. Why can't we just accept things without questioning?
Based on Hisva'aduyos 5746 vol. 2, pp. 312-313.
"And to his father [Yosef] sent... from the best of Egypt." Says Rashi: "This is old wine."
Why did Yosef specifically send his father old wine after twenty-two years of no contact?
We know you can be nostalgic for the past but can you be nostalgic for the future as well? Find out how there are souvenirs that remind us of where we have been and souvenirs that remind us of where we want to go.
Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 10, pp. 158-9.
Why did Yosef have the same dream twice? And how is this different than Pharaoh who also had the same dream twice? The answer lies in understanding how each of us simultaneously lives in two realities--the spiritual and the material. This is also connected to the time-honored custom of giving "gelt" (gifts of money) to children on Chanukah.
Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 3, pp. 805-810.
"And [Yosef] asked Pharaoh's officers who were with him in prison... 'Why are your faces sad today?'" (B'reishis 40:7.) How did this seemingly small act of asking two fellow prisoners how they were feeling lead to a massive ripple effect? What does this teach us about the enormous power of "small" acts of kindness? How is this lesson connected to 19 Kislev and Chanukah?
Based on Shabbos Parshas Mikeitz, Shabbos Chanukah 5734, Sichos Kodesh 5734 vol. 1, p. 204-213.
Following their dramatic showdown, Yaakov tells Eisav that he will meet him at Mt. Seir, but never shows up there. Based on this story, the Gemara says that if a non-Jew asks a Jew where he is going the Jew should name a point beyond his immediate destination lest the non-Jew lie in wait for him at his true destination and ambush him. Being that the commentaries on the Talmud ruled long ago that this concern no longer applies, the Rebbe asks what relevance this teaching has for us today.
Rabbi Shais Taub explains by way of a story that took place in 1991 when Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch’s Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky arranged for the European Regional Kinus HaShluchim to take place in the then USSR.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 20, p. 164.
The Torah tell us that Rachel was beautiful but that Leah had "bleary eyes"? On a deeper level, this describes two personality types—the conventional spiritual beauty of the perfect tzadik and the unconventional spiritual beauty of the struggling penitent. It is the latter who has a special power to take on the spiritual darkness of this world and refine it. One such story is about a young man who wanted more than anything to remain in yeshiva but his Rebbe sent him to drive a tractor.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 35, pp. 152-154.
Rashi says that Yitzchak became blind from the smoke of the idolatrous incense of Eisav's wives. Why did the smoke not blind anyone else? We can begin to understand this by way of three stories: R' Nochum Chernobyler didn't see a non-kosher food item, the Lubavitcher Rebbe didn't see Bob Dylan, and a teenage boy didn't see an inappropriate billboard.
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 5, pp. 139-140.
Rashi tells us of the years of the life of Sarah: "They were all equally good." Knowing what we know about all of the ups and downs of Sarah's life, is it really possible to say that all of her years were equally good? The answer comes from a deeper consideration of what it really means to lead "a good life."
Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 35, pp. 92-93.
Undoubtedly, one of the most dramatic events in all of the Bible is the Akeida (binding of Yitzchak as a sacrifice.) Yet after this climactic event, this week's portion continues with five more verses of a seemingly technical nature. What is the reason for this seemingly anticlimactic conclusion?
Based on Toras Menachem 5749 Vol 1, pp. 348-349.
-
How do you become popular without selling out? How do you appeal to the masses without diluting your message? We learn a powerful lesson in reaching out to others while remaining authentic to ourselves from the transformation of Avram the genius into Avraham the man of the people. (Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 25, p. 68.)
-
How do we deal with those people with whom we vehemently disagree? Avraham tells Lot, "Please part from me; if [you go] left, I will go right, and if [you go] right, I will go left." This sounds like a separation, yet Rashi says it means, "Wherever you dwell, I will not distance myself from you, and I will stand by you as a protector and a helper." How are we to understand this? And what lesson does it teach us about finding common ground? (Based on Sefer HaSichos 5750, pp. 96-109.)
A piece of essential advice for Jewish parents is hidden in the first Rashi of the Torah portion of Noach. We need to tell our children stories, especially stories of the righteous men and women throughout our history.
Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 9 pp. xiv-xv.
We often think of raising children in terms of disciplining them and reining them in. But what about teaching them to be a little bit wild once in a while? Is there a place for that as well?
A profound lesson in education is taught to us at the very beginning of human history as the deeper meaning behind the fact that both Kayin and Shais had descendants named Chanoch.
(Based on Likkutei Sichos Vol. 35 pp. 7-14.)
Siyum celebration following the completion of a class on the classic Shaar HaBitachon (Gate of Trust) from Rabenu Bachaye's Chovos HaLevavos.
At the "top of the ladder" of development in bitachon, the 10th level, one becomes disgusted by mundane things for their own sake and not used for the service of G-d. At this level, one actually has pleasure and excitement in his connection with G-d. He enjoys his relationship with G-d more than spiritual people enjoy the world to come. The motivation for serving G-d is the connection itself. What level trust do you have in Hashem today and can you go higher?
(Chapter 7)
As we climb the "ladder" of trust, we come to the highest levels of equanimity where we never wish to be in a situation different than the one we are currently in.
(Chapter 7)
We discuss factors that can damage bitachon. Ignorance about G-d, Torah, and how the world works can be detrimental to one's trust in G-d.
(Chapter 7)
Continuing with the seven fundamental flaws of the pledge taker attitude. Don’t set preconditions; start serving G-d the best you can right now.
(Chapter 6)
The "collateral takers" are making a fundamental error in their approach to serving G-d. We discuss seven reasons for their mistake.
(Chapter 6)
One who trusts in G-d does not rely on any person so he doesn’t feel threatened by anyone. G-d is providing the resources, not any human. He worries only about his spiritual connection because that is something he can control.
(Chapter 5)
Continuing with the seven ways in which the one who has bitachon differs from the one who doesn’t have bitachon when earning a livelihood. We discuss people's emotional attachments to their work and how the one who has bitachon will not separate his mundane and religious life. His work is actually a form of worship of G-d.
(Chapter 5)
How one who has bitachon goes about earning a livelihood in contrast with one who does not have bitachon.
(Chapter 5)
The selfless person will make use of material things to do G-d's will, but never just for personal gratification. In doing so, everything in this life is transformed into a tool for serving G-d.
(Chapter 4)
More about our belief in reward and punishment. There is a higher level of reward that is disproportionate to our deeds. It therefore requires trust in order to believe that we will receive it.
(Chapter 4)
Four more reasons why spiritual reward and punishment are not clearly stated in Tanach.
(Chapter 4)
Three (out of seven) reasons why spiritual reward is not discussed clearly in Tanach.
(Chapter 4)
The importance of bitachon in spiritual matters that involve other people such as performing acts of kindness. Avoid ulterior motives as well as seeking credit for your deeds. If you do receive honor remember that you were only the tool G-d chose for helping others.
(Chapter 4)
More about trust as it relates to discharging our spiritual obligations. There’s no rule book on material matters so we have to have trust; but when it comes to morality we know what we should be doing and the rules never change. It is proper to have trust in spiritual matters once you have put forth effort and only need help finishing. You need to choose what’s right first.
(Chapter 4)
How to have trust in spiritual matters. When it comes to material matters, we need to trust that G-d will take care of things. But with spiritual matters, we need to use the free choice G-d gave us to actually improve our situation.
(Chapter 4)
We discuss how to deal with our enemies and those who have hurt us. The person was only a messenger but the damage was decreed by G-d.
(Chapter 4)
More about how trust in G-d factors in our interpersonal relationships. Not relying on people actually allows us to be genuine with them and have a real bond.
(Chapter 4)
Trust in G-d is essential to healthy interpersonal relationships. Either you’re a stranger, or among people. When you feel like a stranger it’s time to connect with G-d. We’re all strangers. Rabenu Bachaye offers comfort for the lonely and isolated person.
(Chapter 4)
Some healthy self-talk to meditate on when we’re financially stressed: There’s a right moment for everything, and G-d will provide you your livelihood when it’s time. If you only get what you need right now with no surplus it’s alright.G-d is giving you a livelihood based on what’s perfect for you and your unique needs.
(Chapter 4)
One need not overwork or work unethically to get the money that is coming to him. Neither should one be mnentally preoccupied with making a living. Fear is the product of a toxic meditation. Faith is the antidote.
(Chapter 4)
People often think that associating with wealthy people will somehow make them wealthy also and that this will bring them honor. But wealth itself isn’t honor; spending it properly is what is honorable.
(Chapter 4)
There are two levels of sustenance: one's own personal needs, and the needs of those one provides for (family or employees). There are three possible errors one can make when in the position for providing for others. Either he might feel that he must compromise his values to get the money for all those he’s providing for; or he thinks it’s all for his own personal use; or he provides for others and reminds them that he’s doing them a favor.
(Chapter 4)
One can do nothing to increase the amount of wealth that G-d has already allotted for him. Likewise, a healing only works because G-d wants it to. Sometimes a livelihood and healing come from a place other than where one was looking for them. We must pursue natural means in order to conceal the miracle of G-d providing wealth and healing but the natural means do not actually have power to help or hurt us.
(Chapter 4)
We continue to discuss appropriate ways of exhibiting trust in G-d. Even if one has trust, he still must act responsibly.
(Chapter 4)
Just because G-d is running the world, doesn't mean you are allowed to put yourself in danger. One should not engage in risky behavior.
(Chapter 4)
How to have proper reliance on G-d in one's material as well as spiritual matters. These categories also have many detailed subcategories which will be covered in the following classes.
(Chapter 4)
Continuing the fifth preface, when making a vessel for a livelihood, choose a job that’s suited to you; and when you do it keep in mind that you’re fulfilling G-d's desire for people to work. Don’t become attached to a particular job, thinking it is the source of your livelihood. G-d is the only source of livelihood.
(Chapter 3)
Continuing the fifth preface, sometimes righteous people seem to be working very hard for sustenance and wicked people seem to get everything handed to them. We look into some reasons why the righteous may face difficulties in receiving a livelihood as well as why the wicked may sometimes prosper.
(Chapter 3)
Continuing the fifth preface, the reason G-d makes there be so many steps in maintaining our needs is in order to test us. One who passes this test will be given his sustenance without work.
(Chapter 3)
The fifth preface: G-d's decree is the only real cause for anything. All other causes are just intermediaries in a process. When procuring those things that lie outside of ourselves, we must rely only on G-d by obeying His will for us.
(Chapter 3)
Rabbi Taub answers several questions from students. No new text is covered in this class.
The fourth preface: obeying G-d's will. When G-d makes rules for us, He's trying to take care of us. Certainly, G-d can also be kind to those who are undeserving, however, trusting in G-d means following His program for us as outlined in Torah.
(Chapter 3)
The second preface: G-d knows what we are really thinking.The third preface: Trust must be exclusively in God not combining trust in something else with trust in G-d.Doctors are but conduits through which G-d sends healing much like work is but a conduit through which G-d sends a livelihood.
(Chapter 3)
Everything in creation is under G-d's complete control. In order to understand this we need to discuss the nature of existence and how G-d creates something from nothing.G-d alone creates something from nothing. We will gain no benefit from trying to manipulate the ‘somethings’ of the world. God determines how and where all the ‘somethings’ go at each moment.We discuss the Rebbe's metaphor of "sewing wallets" in order to have more money.
(Chapter 3)
We introduce the Five Prefaces, one of which is to recognize that the seven qualities discussed in the previous lessons are found in G-d alone.
(Chapter 3)
We examine the Scriptural proofs that show how G-d has each of the qualities enumerated in the previous class. The way we know that G-d has these qualities is not through logic alone, because G-d is not bound by logic. We know G-d has these qualities from how He transmits and communicates Himself to us, which is through the Torah, hence we use Scriptural sources. G-d uniquely possesses all of the qualities that elicit trust.
(Chapter 2)
What are the traits that elicit our trust? One worthy of our trust is compassionate, attentive, powerful, knows what’s good for us, is in constant control and complete control, and is kind to even those who are undeserving. Our trust will be complete if indeed we find one who has every single one of these qualities.
(Chapter 2)
The Author's Introduction concludes with an overview of the seven chapters of Shaar HaBitachon.In a letter written to R' Mendel Shemtov a"h regarding health issues, the Rebbe tells him to learn Shaar HaBitachon. Rabbi Taub shares that this letter was one of the main inspirations for this class.
We begin Chapter 1. What does trust really mean? Trust is a feeling.
(Chapter 1)
One with trust in G-d won’t feel the need to work difficult jobs such as working for the government. When choosing a livelihood, one never needs to make religious compromises.One who has trust will not be aggravated with life because he knows G-d is choosing a better good for him than he can for himself. G-d takes care of us like a mother takes care of her baby. She swaddles and changes her baby which might feel uncomfortable to the baby, but it’s all for the baby's good and she’s doing it out of love. When we’re feeling discomfort we have to remember that G-d is taking care of every detail.
(Author's Introduction)
Someone who trusts in G-d is happy when he has money because he can give charity and happy when he doesn't have money because he doesn't have to worry about protecting his wealth. His sense of security doesn’t come from money and his identity is not based on having or not having it. He views money as something that is passing through his hands at the moment and he only needs to make sure it gets to the places it's meant to go.
(Author's Introduction)
Continuing the list of ten advantages of bitachon over alchemy.
(Author's Introduction)
Rabenu Bechaye uses the example of an alchemist to bring out the advantages of trust in G-d. What is an alchemist and why is this a useful example even in our times? We begin the list of ten advantages of bitachon over alchemy.
(Author's Introduction)
In answer to a student's question, Rabbi Taub explains that whatever source one relies on for sustenance will appear to have that power even though the truth is that only G-d is in charge.
There are those that trust in other people, mistakenly believing that this will grant them security. Trusting in G-d means that we don’t need to rely on others. We are meant to love other people, not put our hope in them. By trusting only in G-d we are free to actually bond with people in a genuine way, without emotional manipulation, because we don’t rely on them or fear them.
(Author's Introduction)
G-d desires the natural order and for us to make "vessels" for His blessings to reach us. We discuss the mistake of relying on money for security. Money can be lost, spent on doctor bills, or even cause problems. Someone who trusts in G-d does not rely on wealth for peace of mind or security. He does his part to make vessels for G-d's blessings knowing that G-d will take care of him.
(Author's Introduction)
In this first lesson, we begin to study the author's preface to his work and examine the definition of trust as well as the difference between trust and belief.
Among the points discussed is that by choosing to believe in a ‘caretaker’ other than G-d, we cause ourselves to feel like we are actually dependent on that thing instead of G-d. A parable of the Dubna Maggid helps us to understand the foolishness of this exchange.
(Author's Introduction)
After a hiatus, the Blood Brothers return with a special pre-Sukkos edition of their show. They discuss why cats are afraid of cucumbers as well as various examples of the "makif" encompassing force.
This third installment of our show is all about threes! Why was Torah given in the third month? Why does discovering the truth require three viewpoints? Why are there three stooges and to which three sefiros do they correspond according to kabbalah?
This episode is dedicated in memory of Moshe Hersch ben Shlomo Nasan HaLevi (Moe Howard.)
If humor can be a "Trojan horse;" the difference between legitimate art and propaganda; how the National Security Administration can help you learn chasidus; the connection between the Rashbi, the Ari Zal, the Baal Shem Tov, and Moshiach; Laffy Taffy jokes; and much, much more.
Buckle up for this 43-minute whirlwind conversation of deep Torah ideas and humor that moves so quickly from subject to subject you’ll have to watch three times just to catch it all.
Topics from this episode include: Pesach Sheini; synagogue architecture; whether or not people with social anxiety tend to pray longer; if green laser pointers are more dangerous than red laser pointers; Chinese whispers, Chinese apples, and the Chinese government; and much, much more.
All Jewish holidays represent different aspects of the Jewish people's relationship with G-d while Shavuos represents the relationship itself.
Why is Shavuos also called "Atzeres" which means "holding back"? Why are there no special mitzvos associated with Shavuos? Why are Pesach and Sukkos seven days while Shavuos is only one day? These questions are answered by understanding Shavuos as a "blank check" between the Jewish people and G-d.
Rabbi Taub leads a farbrengen in honor of Lag B'Omer at the Baal Shem Tov Library in Flatbush.
Lag B'Omer is the day of passing of Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai, author of the holy Zohar. As such, the day is fundamentally connected to the dissemination of the secrets of the Torah. Lag B'Omer is also "hod sheb'hod." What is the connection between the attribute of hod and the revelation of the inner dimension of the Torah?
This musical Lag B'Omer gathering with Rabbi Shais Taub and singer Eli Marcus took place in Morristown, NJ at the Rabbinical College of America's "Taste of Yeshiva" program for visiting college students.
Among the subjects discussed were: the true definition of loving one's fellow and the lessons we can learn from the life of Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai.
On the occasion of the 100th yahrzeit of the Rebbe Rashab on 2 Nissan, we look at the tumultuous final days before his passing and his enduring legacy for all of us.
On the night when the Jewish people left Eygpt they were confined to their homes, as it says (Shemos 12:22) "No one shall leave the entrance of his house until morning." We can learn from this several important lessons applicable to current events.
Is Jewish identity collectivist or individualist? Are there no Jews without the Jewish people or no Jewish people without Jews? The first mitzvah performed by the Jewish people, the korban Pesach, holds the answer.
How are we to understand the Torah prohibition against the Jewish people returning to Egypt when many great Jews throughout the ages including the Rambam lived in Egypt? We offer several explanations according to halacha as well as the explanation of the Ari Zal according to kabbalah. What is the lesson for us?
Matzah can only be made with dough that is able to become chametz. But why do we have to take such risks when making matzah? The answer to this question will lead us to understand the "high-risk" investment that Hashem has taken by implanting each one of us with an ego.
A deeper reading of the details of the Megillah—particularly those involving Haman's plot against the Jews—reveals an underlying truth about the unbreakable bond between Jews and G-d.
How do we get the strength to go on when we cannot see G-d's plan for us? One of the lessons of the Purim holiday is how to respond when life makes no sense.
In honor of Tu b'Shevat, the New Year for Trees, we examine some of the spiritual lessons that we can learn from trees in general and the five species of fruits associated with the Land of Israel in specific.
Various spiritual lessons that we can learn from trees, particularly the "seven species" associated with the Land of Israel.
A special musical farbrengen in honor of 24 Teives, the anniversary of the passing of the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. Rabbi Shais Taub is joined by Eli Marcus and guests.
A history of the period of the Alter Rebbe's life leading up to his passing on 24 Teives, 5513 (1813 CE) during the Napoleonic Wars in Russia.
Over the millenia of Jewish history, Rabeinu Moshe ben Maimon HaSefardi remains a unique figure. This talk presents a brief biography of the Rambam followed by a look at some of his works and their effect on Jewish life today.
Massive oil-burning street lamps lit up the whole city of Jerusalem at night during the water-drawing celebration.
But why were the wicks of these lamps made specifically from the old shorts and belts of the priestly garments?
Based on a talk from the Rebbe on Sukkos 5714 we can answer this question by understanding how to joyously overcome our most carnal desires and transform the deep, dark shame of the past into sweet, holy light.
Based on 3rd Night of Sukkos 5714 from Toras Menachem vol. 10, pp. 64-68.
Why do we ask G-d on Yom Kippur to forgive us "for the sin we committed with the evil inclination"? Aren't all sins committed with the evil inclination?
Chasidus explains that this means the specific sin of not properly channeling the energy of the evil inclination and using it as a force for good. Many people, particularly our youth, who often seem to be rebelling are in truth spiritually seeking. Their energy only needs to be directed.
Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of Adam, the first human being. On Rosh Hashanah we are thus reminded that one person is an entire world. How do we translate this idea into inspiration and action for the New Year?
Based on a Michtav Klali from 5723.
Rabbi Taub addresses top professionals in the field of speechwriting at the European Speechwriters Conference at King's College of Cambridge University.
What's more important--soul or body, spiritual or material? The answer lies in the paradox embodied by the Hebrew month of Sivan, the third month of the Jewish calendar. Particularly relevant to our generation is the day of 28 Sivan, when the Rebbe and Rebbetzin arrived in America.
Excerpt of a farbrengen at Tiferes Bachurim's "Torah Discovery Week" for visiting college students.
In anticipation of 3 Tammuz, the yahrzeit of the Rebbe of blessed memory, a group gathers at the Ohel, the Rebbe's resting place, for "a meeting of souls" event.
Various live demonstrations bring chasidic metaphors to life giving us a glimpse into the reality that there is truly only One.
Which are greater? The Torah's positive commandments or its prohibitions? In this debate, Rabbi Manis Friedman argues for the do's and Rabbi Shais Taub argues for the dont's.
An adult's relationship guide stressing the importance of healthy boundaries, self-respect, and emotional sobriety.
What single men can know about themselves as men now that will prepare them better for marriage in the future. What does it really mean to be a mashpia? What is the spiritual archetype of masculinity? Why do men need to get married in order to serve their G-d-given purpose in life?
This talk was hosted by the Adai Ad Institute, an organization promoting shalom bayis, in Crown Heights and delivered to students from several rabbinic studies programs.
What should you say and what should you not say? When are you helping and when are you making things worse? This talk, presented to rabbis and educators in Crown Heights, provides guidelines for those who act as "first responders" in advising people on resolving their own marital issues.
What is the most important quality for a person to have in order to be successful in their marriage? How do we make ourselves receptive to blessings in our marriage and in life in general?
An appreciation of the spiritual roots of masculinity and femininity helps us to better understand the male-female dynamic as we know it. We ask how masculine and feminine paradigms are present in the higher realms and how they influence our relationships here in this world, particularly in marriage.
Why did 24,000 students of Rabbi Akiva all perish? What is a "love martyr"? How do we stop trying to control others and start loving them for who they are?
Lessons in healthy, loving relationships from the author of the Zohar, Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai.
The Jewish approach to happiness differs fundamentally from the way the world at large views it. Is happiness a goal or a means to a goal? Is happiness a right or an obligation?
Toxic thinking, like fear and worry, can remove us from the here and now, causing us not to be present in our own lives. By learning to be G-d-conscious in each moment we are able to show up for each moment and to do so with courage and serenity.
A short talk on the Chassidic approach to parenting and the attitude and mind-set a parent should adopt towards their child. This talk was delivered by renowned chassidic author and scholar, Rabbi Shais Taub at a Neshamos.org event "Advocating for Emotional Wellness" on November 17th 2019 in Brooklyn, NY.
Before you can teach a child how great our Torah is, you must teach the child how great he or she is. Rabbi Shais Taub to Parents of ULY Crown Street.
Rabbi Taub addresses the CounterForce Principals Conference in Boro Park attended by over one hundred Jewish school principals.
Rabbi Taub addresses parents at Beth Rivkah High School in Crown Heights, Brooklyn about how to raise emotionally healthy teens.
What incentives drive us to do mitzvos? What is the key difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation? And what does it have to do with the prohibition of "new flour"?
How do we raise our daughters to want to commit their lives to Torah? We lift them up.
This talk, presented at the annual dinner of Beis Chaya Mushka Monsey, discusses the education of girls and young women in the context of two different types of self-sacrifice which correspond to the two holidays of Pesach and Shavuos.
What do parents do when a child just doesn't "fit the mold"? At the annual dinner for Legadel, a London UK organization that provides support to children who are not thriving in school, Rabbi Shais Taub presents words of encouragement and inspiration about how the job of parents is to cherish that which makes each child different rather than stifle it.
On the occasion of his father's yarhzeit, the Rebbe teaches a kabbilistic interpretation of the Mishnah studied on a yahrzeit:
"A needle which is placed on the step [leading down to a mikvah] in a cave, and the water is moved back and forth, as soon as a wave has passed over it, it becomes ritually clean."
On the importance of seeing the uniqueness of every child. A special talk for parents and educators in honor of the shloshim memorial of 19-year-old Dina Leah Rosenzweig a"h.
Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to the 12th grade of Beis Rivkah High School about the meaning of visiting the Rebbe's Ohel.
Rabbi Taub addresses the Menachem Foundation’s Kinus Hamechanchos on their theme (The Advantage of Light from Dark) as it relates to Tu B’Av and seeing the potential within every child.
Can you see your child as a soul?
In this guided meditation we try to align ourselves with the truth that our child is intrinsically worthy, infinitely worthy, and unconditionally worthy.
What is the deeper meaning of kaddish as well as the other Jewish customs connected with death, grief, and mourning? This talk describes the connection between traditional Jewish mourning practices and the kabbalistic view of the journey of the soul. The significance of shiva (seven days of mourning) and shloshim (thirty days) is described as corresponding to phases in the soul's transition away from embodiment. We also look at the meaning of observing a yarhzeit (anniversary of passing) and Yizkor (memorial prayer recited on holidays) from the perspective of honoring the soul's journey.
A guided meditation just before the onset of Shabbos in order to get into a Shabbos frame of mind. (Delivered at the National Jewish Retreat.)
This guided meditation simulates the chasidic practice of “hisbobenus” contemplation. Rabbi Shais Taub gently guided you through various thoughts on the theme that G-d is the only true existence.
Text-based study of the Lubavitcher Rebbe's inaugural discourse. Lesson 1 of 4, this class covers chapter one of the text.
What do you do when you've broken free from your limits? Break free again.
Text-Based Study of Maamar Lehavin Inyan Pesach Sheni, 5738 with Rabbi Shais Taub.
This discourse was recited by the Rebbe on 13 Iyar, 5738 in honor of the yahrzeit of his brother, R' Yisroel Aryeh Leib, and published in edited form on 14 Iyar 5738.
The Rebbe’s discourse Matzah Zu 5749 on the spiritual significance of the matzah we eat on Pesach.
The maamar (discourse) begins with this well known passage from the Haggadah: “This matzah that we eat--for what reason? Because the dough of our fathers did not have time to become leavened before the King of the king of kings, the Holy One, Blessed be He, revealed Himself to them and redeemed them.”
The Rebbe’s discourse Matzah Zu 5749 on the spiritual significance of the matzah we eat on Pesach.
The maamar (discourse) begins with this well known passage from the Haggadah: “This matzah that we eat--for what reason? Because the dough of our fathers did not have time to become leavened before the King of the king of kings, the Holy One, Blessed be He, revealed Himself to them and redeemed them.”
The Rebbe’s discourse Matzah Zu 5749 on the spiritual significance of the matzah we eat on Pesach.
The maamar (discourse) begins with this well known passage from the Haggadah: “This matzah that we eat--for what reason? Because the dough of our fathers did not have time to become leavened before the King of the king of kings, the Holy One, Blessed be He, revealed Himself to them and redeemed them.”
Text-based study of the maamar recited by the Rebbe in honor of the yahrzeit of his mother, Rebbetzin Chana in 5725 and then edited and published in honor of the thirty-days of morning for the Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka.
A melody composed in Chevron and brought to Lubavitch. The words are from the liturgical poem by R' Yisrael Najaro. (Song at 3:00.)
Melody composed by the Schapiro brothers of the famous Slavita printing press. (Song at 3:12.)
This melody, an ode to a knitting machine, was composed by R' Sholom Charitonov. (Song at 4:08.)
The melody, known as the "Niggun Hisorerus Rachamim Rabim," was composed by the Baal Shem Tov's student, R' Michel of Zlotchov. (Song at 2:33.)
This niggun traces back to the times of the Alter Rebbe and is one of the earliest Chabad niggunim. It was heard in the home of the Rebbe's father, R' Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, and transcribed by Israeli pianist Verdina Shlonksy.
Rabbi Shais Taub and Eli Marcus talk about some of the background and meaning of this song.
Composed by the third Chabad Rebbe, the Tzemach Tzedek, to be sung at the resting place of his sainted mother, Rebbetzin Devorah Leah.
Rabbi Shais Taub and Eli Marcus discuss the background and meaning of this soul stirring melody.
The Alter Rebbe composed this short song of "running and returning" to the words of two different Biblical verses. "As the deer pants thirstily by the water brook..." "...and you shall place them as frontlets between your eyes."
Rabbi Shais Taub and Eli Marcus discuss the background and meaning of this timeless melody.
R' Mendel Horodoker composed the Niggun Hishtapchus HaNefesh (Melody of the Outpouring of the Soul) as an expression of longing.
Rabbi Shais Taub and Eli Marcus discuss the background and meaning of this stirring song.
Returning to the metaphor of the wick, the oil, and the flame (ch. 35) we explain how it is that we reveal G-d's Presence in this world.
All forms of love studied until now are from the "right side" which represents "chesed." This unique love, "the love like gold," however, is from the "left side" which represents "gevurah." It is a fiery desire to leave the body, which is ultimately redirected back to the body in order to do G-d's will in this world.
In order to create finite worlds, G-d concealed His infinite light through the process of tzimtzum (Ch. 48.) If G-d contracted His light for us, all the more so must we feel moved to set aside our own comforts for Him (Ch. 49.)
Arousing mercy for the plight of the G-dly soul is a means for generating love for G-d (Ch. 45.)
"As water reflects a face so does the heart of a man to his fellow" (Mishlei 27) describes the reciprocal nature of love. When one thinks about G-d's love for us shown at the time of the Exodus, it will cause us to feel love for G-d (Ch. 46.) The Exodus does not only refer to the historical liberation from Egypt but to our personal ability to transcend bodily limitations and be close to G-d in the present (Ch. 47.)
The lower level of awe is necessary in order to do mitzvos; the higher level of awe comes as a result of doing mitzvos. "Ahavah rabbah" (great love) is a gift from Above; "ahavas olam" (worldly love) is developed by meditating on creation (Ch. 43.)
The love called "my Soul I desire you" is loving G-d because He is your life; the love called "Like a son who strives" is loving G-d more than your life. Both are based on natural feelings that are magnified through meditation (Ch. 44.)
Is awe of G-d a small matter? Yes, for Moshe it is--and for the "spark" of Moshe within each of us, namely, the faculty of daas that allows us to focus on abstract concepts until they feel real to us.
In order to develop sufficient feelings of awe and love to serve G-d, one must meditate on such subjects that lead to these feelings.
Action and feeling are like body and soul. The feeling (kavanah) with which a mitzvah is performed intensifies its impact.
The process through which the physical world is transformed into the place where G-d's Essence will be revealed, is the physical performance of mitzvos using physical objects.
The purpose of all creation is that there be this physical world, the place of ultimate concealment, where G-d desires to be revealed most of all.
Since managing the inner conflict between the souls is a lifelong struggle for the beinoni, he may question if his mode of serving G-d actually has any value. The comfort for the beinoni is to realize and understand that it is action that is most important.
Another method for attaining joy is by considering the fact that since the destruction of the Temple, "The Holy One has no other sanctuary in this world than the four cubits of halachah. Thus, by engaging in the study of Torah at appointed times, one will be gladdened upon the realization that he merits to act as G-d's "host" in this world.
This joy, and other joys described in these chapters, in no way precludes a person from also feeling frustration over the limitations of his body and animal soul. As stated in the Zohar, "Weeping is lodged in one side of my heart and joy is lodged in the other."
One method for attaining joy is by contemplating G-d's absolute Oneness, meaning that even in this world, He is present. By doing so, we actually fulfill the very purpose of our existence which is to provide G-d a "dwelling place" in this lowest world. Thus, our joy is double and redoubled--we are happy that He is close to us; He is happy that He has a dwelling place in this world; He is happy for our happiness; we are happy for His happiness.
The advice in the previous chapter, that of redefining our self image as soul-centered rather than body centered, is also the way to fulfill the commandment "Love your fellow as yourself." Only our bodies divide us; our souls are one.
(Significantly, the number 32 in Hebrew is ל"ב which also spells the word "lev" meaning "heart." This reminds us that ahavas Yisrael is the "heart of Tanya.")
Continuing the theme begun in the previous chapter, namely leveling the false pride of the animal soul, we now discuss the importance of feeling humble before those who may be on a lower rung of religious observance (Ch. 30) and clarify that bitterness, as opposed to depression and apathy, can be a productive emotion (Ch. 31.)
We Addressing the problem of "timtum halev" (blockage of the heart) which causes a person not to feel. In this chapter, apathy is identified as an even more dangerous emotional state than sadness. Solutions are given for combatting the problem, primarily the use of personal inventory as a method of breaking down the complacency of the animal soul.
Negating the popular misconception that if you experience distracting thoughts during prayer it means your prayers are worthless. The opposite may even be true.
Not only should one who has sinful impulses not be ashamed, he should rejoice in the opportunity to curb these impulses and thereby do a mitzvah.
How do we overcome worry over spiritual problems, namely the guilt over past sins? (Second half of Chapter 26.)
What is the importance of joy? And how does one rid oneself of worries over material problems. (First half of Chapter 26.)
Another way of finding motivation to do mitzvos is by activating the soul's latent love for G-d. All Jews possess the capacity to make the ultimate sacrifice in order not to be separated from G-d. If one understands how all sin separates one from G-d, and every mitzvah connects one to G-d, he or she will find sufficient motivation to adhere to all of the mitzvos.
"It is very close to you--in your mouth, in your heart, to do it." Even the regular person can change his or her emotions enough to muster sufficient motivation to produce behavioral results. This is done through meditation.
"The brain rules over the heart," which at first referred to impulse control and reigning in the impulses of the heart, now is explained to also mean changing the heart by slowly creating new feelings through meditation.
Just as there are two types of tzadik and rasha, there are two types of beinoni--"one who serves" and "one who has not served." The struggle of the beinoni has inherent value. Without it, it is as if he does not even serve G-d, for service is only that which requires us to go beyond our established pattern.
We cannot change our feelings at will, but we can control our behaviors. The beinoni need not feel the love and awe of G-d that a tzadik does. Instead, the beinoni focuses on the three "garments" of thought, speech, and action.
We continue to learn about the personality of the beinoni. Emotionally, the beinoni is no different than a rasha, yet behaviorally he resembles a tzadik.
The beinoni is one who experiences the inner conflict of a rasha yet whose behaviors are indistinguishable from those of a tzaddik. The beinoni manages this by exercising the natural superiority of the mind over the heart (hamoach shalit al halev.)
The tzaddik is the one who has defeated his or her animal soul either incompletely by neutralizing it or completely by transforming it. The rasha has not defeated the animal soul and sometimes allows it to gain control of the modes of expression (garments.)
These chapters look at the unholiness within our own animal soul as well as in the universe around us. Just as the G-dly soul is composed of ten holy powers and expresses itself through three modes of holy behavior, so does the animal soul possess ten unholy powers and express itself through ten unholy modes of behavior (Ch 6). In the world around us, there is neutral negativity which can be elevated and refined (Ch. 7), as well as irredeemable negativity which must be avoided (Ch. 8).
Torah study is unique among all mitzvos, for all other mitzvos are "garments" for the soul while the study of Torah is "food." Whenever we study Torah, we fuse and unite our minds with Divine will and wisdom and this has a permanent effect on how we see the world.
The G-dly soul seeks expression through three modes or "garments"--namely, thought, speech, and action.
The make up and composition of the G-dly soul is the "ten soul powers" or "kochos hanefesh" which correspond to the Ten Sefiros. These soul powers are further subdivided into three intellectual and seven emotional capacities.
The "second soul" described in Tanya is the impulse for losing oneself in the Oneness of G-d. This chapter describes the selflessness of the "nefesh elokis" (G-dly soul) as opposed to the self-preservation of the "nefesh habehamis" (animal soul.) This soul is equally present within every Jew regardless of their spiritual standing. This is one's true self which one reveals by being connected to a tzadik.
Is perfection attainable? The Tanya redefines our understanding of what it means to serve G-d.