Talks classes
| Category Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Shabbos | Talks on Shabbos |
| Chanukas Habyis | |
| Marriage | |
| Death And Mourning | |
| Informal Talks On Various Topics | This section has random discussions on relevant topics. |
| Scholarly Random Thoughts And Topics | Scholarly random thoughts and topics |
| Education | |
| Emuna And Bitachon (faith And Trust) | Emuna and Bitachon. Faith and Trust. |
| Simcha (joy) | Joy. Simcha. |
| Teshuva | Teshuva |
| Tzedaka And Gemilas Chasadim | Tzedaka and Gemilas Chasadim The Alter Rebbe holds that the answer to our limitations in Avoda in these generations is by giving more Tzedaka. |
| Jew And Love Of Fellow Jew | Jew and love of fellow Jew |
| Kashrus | |
| Kibud Av Vaaim | Kibud Av VaAim One of the ten Commandments that should be so easy yet so many struggle with this. |
| Parnassah/ Earning A Livelihood | Here are different classes on the topic of Parnassah and different issues and challenges that can crop up and how to deal with them. |
| Class Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Two Views of the Inner Meaning of the Chasuna (Wedding) | The first thing that happens between a couple is their wedding - is it superficial or a microcosm of their whole life together? This class is a comparison of two ma'amarim (discourses) on the (chasuna) wedding day. One from Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson (the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe) from 5689 (1928) and one from Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson (the Lubavitcher Rebbe) from 5714 (1953). Rabbi Paltiel speaks to a group of young men including a chosson (groom) in preparation for a wedding. |
| Aishes Chayil | A beautiful analysis of Aishes Chayil prefaced by several stories. Recorded at a talk given at a Toronto Shabbaton. |
| Kibud Av VaAim short thoughts | What should be so easy can be so hard.
What would Chassidus add to Kibud av vaAim?
Beis Rivkah high school (5776/ 2105)
When we find our parents not perfect tell yourself (like it is written in Iggeres HaKodesh 25) this i not them this is the will of God.
I honor them because of the divine command. |
| T'shuva | The Chassidic approach (to Teshuva)- Don't be afraid of Him (He's your Father). Do it out of love. |
| Parshas Toldos (a lesson in Chinuch) 5780 (2019) | Parshas Toldos (a lesson in Chinuch) 5780 (2019)
Aisav is greater but extreme, Yaakov is balanced and sustained.
The lesson in our lives.
First Version: Yeshiva.
Second Version: Chicago, Rosh Chodesh Kislev Farbrengen |
| What's the difference between Emuna and Bitachon (BR Seminary 5780/ 2019) |
What's the difference between Emuna and Bitachon? Faith is like the air we breath, we must have it and it is basic to our existence. Trust is a choice under trying times to טראכט גוט וועט זיין גוט. There is an ill unique to our generation where people have Bitachon and not Emuna. |
| 4 Marcheshvan 5720, Dor Haflaga Lesson |
4 Marcheshvan 5720, Dor Haflaga Lesson Class One: You survive a holocaust, rebuild correctly and not selfishly The lesson from this for Chinuch Class Two: The cities and towers must be of Torah and they are forever and you "even" get fame as a secondary reward. |
| Mitzvas Lo Sisna and Ahavas Yisroel Perek 2 | Perek 2, Class 9
The idea of loving and not hating, and not even thinking hatefull thoughts.
Tanya Iggeres HaKodesh 23 נא ונא וכו' ואיש את רעת רעיהו אל תחשבו וכו' כמחשבת עבודה זרה ממש
Rambam does say it positive (הלכות דיעות פרק ו' הלכה ד) but Hilel and Chassidus see a point in the indirect form.
Perek 2, Class 10.
Inside. Why is the Gemara indirect (or negative): what you don't want done to you don't do to your fellow, rather than positiveL DO onto others what you want done to you (as it is in רמב"ם הלכות דיעות םרק ז' הלכה ד)?
Answer because it is hinting also to thought: don't think of another badly, as per אגרת הקדש כ"ב at the end.
This doesn't mean you don't see the fault, it is מקיף, part of the entire person., as we see our own faults.
Example court of law.
Perek 2, Class 11.
In Tanya Chapter 32 two reasons are given why Ahavas Yisroel is the entire Torah:
1) To raise the Neshama up, (which was discussed at length until now)
2) To bring Hashem down (which really means דירה בתחתונים) and that depends on Ahavas (and Achdus) Yisroel, as through our unity He rests (as per אגרת הקדש סימן ל"א).
Perek 2, Class 12.
Introduction, the Rebbe explains the expression ופירש הבעל שם טוב ז"ל (In Shaar Hayichud VihaEmuna Perek 1) to mean to spread out and reveal (though it has a source in מדרש תהילים)
Similarly when הלל says ואידך פירושרא הוא (according to the second point in Ahavas Yisroel- to bring G-dliness down) that when there is the Ahava, Hashem is brought down through one of the Mitzvos.
Example: Talsi, Malchus, Bittul, Yirah. |
| Story Telling (Beth Rivkah Seminary 5780/ 2019) |
Story Telling The place of telling stories in our culture. When is telling stories that didn't happen exactly as told education and when is it lying. A story that is true, even when it isn't, is educational. What about negativity and sadness, and learning about the hardships of "the real world". |
| Mitzvas Lo Sisna and Ahavas Yisroel Perek 1 | Perek 1, Class 1.
This class introduces the Ma'amar and explores the Chinuch, the Gemara and the Arizal's suggestion that everyone say each day (in the morning) הריני מקבל עלי מצות עשה של ואהבת לרעך כמוך
We further explored the Kabbalah that says that all Souls are parts of the Neshama of Adam HaRishon and that this is the basis for the idea of ערבות (Guarantor-ship).
Perek 1, Class Two: Introductory class.
Explaining "אדם העליון" and the idea of אצילות and התכללות as apposed to תהו and תערבות.
The משל is from the רבינו בחיי and his referencing the idea of כח ההמרה which is the idea of cellular regeneration.
This order and finitude adds up to אין סוף not because it's infinite but because it's order is infinite.
Living forever is a Mashal for Atzilus.
Perek 1, Class Three: Introduction continued.
Atzilus really works because of M"A- a deeper sense of purpose.
M"A comes from the forehead (while revelation comes from אח"פ and עינים- the orifices in the "face of א"ק"), which is a great concealment on the hand and an expression of the ("face") essence on the other.
Perek 1, Class Four: a little inside.
Adam HaRishon general Soul includes us all.
Perek 1, Class 5:
We read inside.
Adam includes all Neshamos as one, but then they manifest and separate.
Ahavas Yisroel is that even as they are manifest they (can be) are one because of the source, M"A.
Perek 1, Class 6:
The Hiskalelus is rooted in the fact that in Adam we were all one actually and because of the interconnection between each of us and all of us, we can continue being one even down here.'
The Rebbe proposes that this has to do with the fact that on the (Ohr) Neshama level we are still one.
We added that in later Ma'amarim (especially in עין בית) the Rebbe explains that it is really because of the body and the Keli and that is really where the extra Bittul presides.
Perek 1, Class 7: Continued from class 5, why and how we are all connected.
However I would like to explore Gilgul Neshamos and the idea that all Neshamos in "Guf" are born before Moshiach comes.
Perek 1, Class 8:
תמים יהי' לרצון
Davening is like a Korban and like a Korban it must be whole so I mustn't hate any Yid, because if I did I'd hate and dis-include part of myself from my "Korban". |
| Simcha, Letter (15 Elul 5711) with commentary | The Rebbe writes to someone about Simcha but insists that it be for Hashem and not for the Rebbe
Simcha SHel Mitzvah vs Simcha BiTaharasah |
| Letter from the (Previous) Rebbe about meaning of Upsherin |
This short class enlightens the מנהג ישראל תורה היא, the Jewish custom, about waiting three years to cut a little boy's hair. Many ideas are touched on here. This class is accompanied by a PDF that Rabbi Paltiel prepared for the Upsherin of one of his own sons. It includes Chassidus from two Chabad Admorim about this subject with commentary and more. |
| Short talks on the Topic of Chanukas Habayis |
1) Bringing a Korban vs. building a Beis HaMikdash |
| The Rebbes response to severe illness | The Rebbe's words to people whose relatives were near the end and their reactions.
What is a Rebbe meant to do?
|
| Class twelve of reflections on Aveilus |
These classes were given to the Bochurim of Yeshivas Lubavitch Cincinnati after the Passing of their beloved teacher הרב חיים שניאור זלמן בן הרב שלום שמעון יעקב שליט"א Baras. Class One: A talk on how Jewish people approach mourning. 1) Tzadok Hadin, we accept that we cannot understand 2) Sometimes you just cry 3) We don't make Hashem right, but we accept, "no questions on Hashem". 4) what about the Rebbe's Bracha לאנגע גיזונטע חסידישע יארען? 5) אמונה Faith is like the air we breathe, בטחון is a choice of how we approach the challenge. |
| Kashrus- the spirit of the law |
Kosher an overview. This class includes many stories and inspirational anecdotes from the Rebbe and others to support keeping kosher not only to the letter of the law but also to its spirit. We touch on לא תאכל כל תועבה that what is not Kosher is abominable. The Rebbe introduced the two Mivtzoim Kosher and Taharas Hamishpacha at the same farbrengen and explained that these Mitzvos done in private determine the lasting adherence of Jews (including young ones, "the next generation") into the future. Kosher heals and prevents illness. Eating only "our own" is the real basis for this idea. The issues of חלב עכו"ם, בישול עכו"ם and פת עכו"ם. The idea that there should be a separation between Jews and non-Jews, and that food brings us closer together. What the Torah says about that. Kosher and Moshiach. |
| Our children are everything | An overview of the basic attitudes in Chinuch given at Maon Noam outreach center.
Five points: 1) Shalom Bayis 2) Being a living example at home 3) the ongoing conversation in a Jewish home 4) school 5) friends. We have more influence over our children than we think. We must use it, but without too much emotion. |
| Freedom, only free people can give (5779/ 2018). | The irony is that people don't give when forced only when they are free. because giving takes strength not weakness. |
| sichos on aveilus | [audio mp3="https://insidechassidus.org/wp-content/uploads/sichos-on-aveilus-.mp3"][/audio] |
| Class 11 of Reflections on Aveilos | Shloshim
Given at the Shloshim for אייזיק יצחק בן שלמה ורחל דינה ע"ה.
A man who had every reason not to live and lived life to the fullest.
What is Shloshim (and more). |
| Is socialism against Torah? (5778/ 2018). | Religious Jews are socially conservative does that mean that they are fiscally conservative as well?
Which path is better? Is there a better path? |
| The ways of G-d (5778/ 2018). | Why would Hashem allow Lincoln to be assassinated at the end of the Civil War and let him finish the good he started?
Change doesn't happen easy. |
| Soul (Avrohom) and body (Exodus from Egypt) and the birth of a nation (5778/ 2018). | A talk given in Minnesota on the meaning of the Jewish people.
The Jewish Soul relate back to Avrohom Avinu.
The Jewish Body relate to the time the Jewish people left Egypt crossed the Yam Suf and received the Torah, and were Chosen.
A nation is צבו"ר= צדיקים בינונים ורשעים a nation means even the worst member is a complete member,
This is what G-d wants: a people.
Vladimir Posner: a Jew cannot be defined by any social criterium. Because we are our Neshama!
Ask our Enemies:
Hitler: because Jews are weak and create weakness in the world through their compassion and kindness.
Stalin: because Jews are revolutionaries and they couldn't be control.
This is a dichotomy; and the TRUTH of what a JEW is lies here.
But the TRUTH of the Jew requires both of these; and when a Jew is busy only with one of these poles (in a Polar way) he is sick. |
| ראה אנכי נותן לפניכם תשמ"ג | Class One.
Based on the Alter Rebbe's Ma'amar in Likutei Torah,
This class, which is the first of two is dominated by what appears to be the Rebbe's questioning the Alter Rebbe:
The Alter Rebbe explains that after Mattan Torah (some part of) the Jewish Neshama is revealed.
He goes as far as explaining this regarding a Jew (whose 'Yud' is revealed) in his feelings of regret fro sin which he does not -even- act upon. The questions this exclusion of the Jew with no regret.
The Rebbe finds a way to include him as well, the fire will brighten later on.
The Crown of the Yud.
Class Two.
Each Letter of Havaya is another aspect of the Neshama of each and every Yid, when this is not complete not is not good
it is corrected through Teshuva (even during the Golus itself).
Elul already includes all that will follow from it. |
| לא היו ימים טובים לישראל התשמ"ג. | 15 Menachem av is opposite Tisha Bi'Av
Ahavas Yisroel is opposite Sinas Chnom and brings the Geula.
This Ma'amar focuses singularly on loving a fellow Jew (very powerful). |
| The second part of this מאמר discusses the idea of אהבת ישראל וואס בריינגט צו אחדות ישראל | וה' פקד את שרה תשמ"ג
Class one.
Mazal is the source for Children health and Parnassa.
In the case of Jewish people, this is the level of אין which is interpreted to be the deepest level possible.
We reach and affect the מזל through an עבודה on the level of בכל מאדיך which is the יחידה.
Class Two.
This class discusses that the Yechida בכל מאדיך discussed before that brings blessings all the way down to the physical level also has a similar affect on the Sefiros and Kochos that they should achieve התכללות and ultimately התאחדות.
In human terms this is the ideas of אהבת ישראל and the higher level: אחדות ישראל, which is reached by the revelation of the יחידה. |
| Machar Chodesh.. 5722. | This Maamr is really a "Im Kesef talve" Maamar.
This Ma'amar which deals with Gemilas Chasadim, places this Mitzva not only above Tzedaka, but above all the Mitzvos:
Tzeadaka corrects BY"A, Mitzvos enhance Atzilus, GeMaCh touches the Ein Sof and it has nothing to correct, change or improve. So, the reward for touching Keser, is touching Keser itself.
How all this ties on with the ideas of mashpia and Mikabel, The moon's disappearance in order to be reborn. |
| VaAira 5712. | Also known as 'Der Frumer VaAira'.
Class One.
"The Frumer VaAira" of the Alter Rebbe (origionally) reviewed by the Rebbe in 5712.
The Ma’amar is being taught in two classes.
This class overviews the Ma’amar and some of its' history.
It then explores the 'Zoche' person who need not do Teshuva because 1) he reaches Hashem through Torah and Mitzvos (that are one with Him) and 2) never wastes a second and never loses any 'L’vush’. He is therefore worthy of Moshiach with no need to do Teshuva.
Class Two.
1) why must Teshuva be a prerequisite to Moshiach? Is there not the option of not sinning in the first palace?
2) Ki Lo Yidach Mimenu Nidach... (nothing is lost) doesn't mean of Jewish Souls but of Godly sparks,
3) Consequently, virtually no person is in fact above the need to correct what he wasted from the Godliness he was given (even if it is only a moment of time).
4) How one can inspire himself to feel so bad about wasting short amounts of time.
5) In fact teshuva reaches higher than the (rare) perfect person.
6) VaAira.... Keil Shakai... Havaya this is the Tzadik and the Ba'al Teshuva. |
| The Alter Rebbe. | "Der Frumer vaAira" (5554).
Long Version (Yeshiva, 5773/2013).
The Alter Rebbe's Maamar about no sparks (or Jews) being lost, that it may (not only include but) necessitate Teshuva davka, and it cannot happen without this.'
Short overview (Beis Miodrash Linashim, 5773/2013).
review of "the Frumer VaAira" of the Alter Rebbe. |
| 15 Menachem Av- The celebration of T'shuva. (5773/2013). | The 15th of Menachem Av celebrates the idea of T'shuva and the joy the opportunity brings (it actually reverses the churban Beis HaMikdash) that is even more exhilarating than Yom Kippur. |
| HoRaisa Derech Teshuva... | (From the Slichus) of Tzom Gedalia.
Horaisa Derech Teshuva Livas Hashoveiva. The poem included in the Tzom Gerdalia Slichus (as is the case with much of this Slichus) it's more about Aseres Yemei Teshuva than about Gedalia. |
| TESHUVA origins. | Examples of Baalei Teshuva. |
| Balance (healthy) vs. Compensator (invalid) , like the Tzadik and the Ba'al Teshuva. (5774/2013). | The invalid is disqualified from working in the Beis haMikdash, why?!
Because he is not about balance but compensation, and and the Beis HaMikdash is all about balance.
The advantage of the 'Compensator' also known as the Baal Teshuva. |
| Thoughts | A thought on Teshuva. |
| An important conversation (5777/2016). | This discussion took place in Beth Rivkah seminary as oart of our Tanya class.
We explore the classic idea of Teshuva in contrast tp the changes the Rebbe introduced to how we should do Teshuvah. |
| Margila ... Drava 5746. | The Teshuva and Davening nowadays must be done only with joy because 1) We're too low to afford any kind of sadness 2) We've completed all aspects of sad Avoda. The question is still, how is the Tachlis of Totah Teshuva and Maasim Tovim. He explains that the point of Torah is to know Atzmus which is achieved through Teshuva and good deeds. |
| ויהיו חיי שרה ה'תשמ"א. | Class One.
Simcha is explored in this class:
Joy allows for complete Avodas Hashem;
It involves great humility.
It needs to be constrained so that it not result in something unholy.
<
strong>Class Two.
The issue of Murgash (external and demonstrative passion) that was described as undesirable in the last class, is the Avoda of: Chava, Noach and Sara.
Only Sara manages to handle it correctly.
This is why her death and age are recorded in so much detail.
Twice it says חיי שרה to connote 1) her achievement and 2) That her achievement is hers.
Class Three.
Lesson מעשה אבות סימן לבנים.
We are in the position to be BeSimcha and show it.
This is connected to ביום השלישי יקימנו ונחי' לפניו. |
| Chayey Sara 5712. | Class One.
Chayey Sara, Chava Noach and Sara shared the Avoda of bringing Bittul into Murgash [as opposed to Adam and Avrohom whose task was in the realm of the Bilti Murgash]. Noach tried a bittul of Chochma (wine, pinimyus Bina is Chochma) and failed; Sara tried a Bittul of malchus and succeeded because she was connected to Avrohom Avinu.
(next class: Simcha).
Class Two.
Simcha: 1) Joy reveals the atzmus created through the avoda of Dira BiTachtonim, 2) The prerequisite to joy is humility, 3) The joy (before the original sin was naturally) without murgash., 4) Nowadays the joy is bimurgash, and we must therefore have the joy hidden and the Yirah revealed.
The Rebbe's new approach. |
| Shmues # 2. Joy II. | A powerful talk on the avoda of simcha (joy). Packed full of stories and lots of warm Yiddish atmosphere. The talk is in English but includes Yiddish phrases and words (98% translated so everyone can understand). This recording was made at a Malave Malka (post-Shabbos gathering) in 2007. If you miss a point or the end of a story due to the Yiddish, let us know and we will send you a translation! |
| Shmues # 1. Joy I. | This talk was given as a video conference for a group in the UK in 2007.
Note: The sound in this audio file was amplified April 24 11AM. If it was too quiet for you in the past you may want to try downloading it again. |
| בסוכות תשבו ה'תש"ם. | This class discusses אמונה which us מקיף and how we affect התישבות in this מקיף as the פסוק says בסוכות תשבו. |
| Ki Tisa 5711. | Class One.
Emuna is discussed in this class.
The Ma'amar explains that a Goy has Emuna only on the level of Mimalei Kol Almin.
He explains that even on this level there is a difference between Knowledge and Emuna.
By Yidden there are three levels of Emuna: 1) From Mimalei, (here also the Yid's Emuna is different than the Goy's), 2) From Sovev, all is one on this level, 3) In Atzmus.
Neshamos Yisroel comes from Machashava, Alu BiMachshava, higher than Machshava.
Class Two.
In this class we learn about the need for Moshe Rabbeinu: Every Jew has in his Neshama Emuna but it can be makif, like the thief who prays that Hashem grants him success at theft.
The internalization of faith, comes from Moshe who because of his oneness with Atzmus can strengthen our faith.
The class also explored (briefly) the beginning and end of the Ma'amar about Ki Tisa, the idea that Moshe doesn't simply count, he empowers and not only the actual Moshe but each and every Moshe in each and every subsequent generation. |
| Shalom Mordechai Rubashkin (5778/ 2017). | Thoughts on the most recent series of Miracles.
1) Yerushalayim is announced as the capital and there is no real reaction in the world.
2) Family stays together even when things aren't perfect.
3) When one goes through this kind of suffering comes out purged and pure. |
| Is life good but bad happens or is life bad where we try to survive? (5777/ 2017). | A blurb; we quote the RaMbaM from More Nivuchim section three chapter 12. |
| A short blurb on daily life and what we take for granted. (5775/2015). | |
| The Jewish people are a supernatural people. (5775/2015). | This little talk was a response to a question a student asked, it explores what it means that Jewish people are different, they are a nation of God, of miracles and even in Golus we live a different life.
|
| How do we know that Torah is true. (5773/2013). | the non-answer that is the best answer of all. |
| Is the world a good place where bad things happen or a bad place where good things happen? | Class One.
The world is a jungle (by itself) and G-d's garden because of G-d's involvement.
The Even Ezra's justified pessimism and the RaMbaM's extra-ordinary optimism.
Do bad things happen to good people? According to the RaMbaM not as much as people say and think.
It is so much on our hands.
Three levels of bad: 1) natural, 2) communal, 3) individual.
Class Two.
The miracle of civics and the order of community and civilization, it is from G-d.
Naturally everything can fall apart מארגען אין דער פרי but with the divine involvement it is GOOD.
When we are tested we do all we can to "say it's good" אין עוד מלבדו.
The sun was shining.
להשכילך בינה.
The only explanation is השגחה פרטית לפי שיטת הבעל שם טוב.
Class Three.
The good we see in the agnostic camp is the direct influence of G-d. |
| Series to Shluchos on Emuna and Bitachon, Spring 5776/ 2016. | Talk One.
Introduction, stories and overview.
1) Three meanings of Emunah: A. higher than reasonable bond, B. we nurse from our mother as an infant, C. Proffiect at it like a craftsman.
2) Jewish and non-Jewish faith, Sovev Kol Almin.
Talk Two.
3) Faith that is personalized is alive and brings great joy.
4) Strong faith and weak faith, we all have very strong moments of faith and weak moments. We celebrate the strong moments, and survive the weak moments, by going back to our childhood upbringing.
5) Knowledge vs. faith. Faith is a pre (or super) commandment and Knowing God intellectually is the first Mitzvah.
<
strong>Talk Three.
6) Knowledge of God is the first commandment, knowledge of His unity is the second.
7) Achdus Hashem means that the world is one with Him [the idea that he is one s part of the first Mitzvah].
8) Three levels of Avhdus:
A. RaMbaM: he controlds the tools of creation. [The tools are themselves creations so the control isnt entirely exact].
B. Kabbalah: He controls the tools, but the tools are the s'firos and are thus perfect in their unity with Him and each other, making His Oneness with the world and His control perfect.
C. Chassidus: the world itself is Godliness.
Talk Four.
9) The 13 thirteen principles of Faith, are divided into three great principles: A.The Creator, B. Communication between Creator and His creation, C. Consequense, reward and punishment.
We read the 13 Principles inside and discussed each of them.
Talk Five.
10) Levels of faith: The men of Yericho skipped ברוך שם and for them it was right, because they were on the level of יחודא עילעא, but for the rest of us it would be dishonest and wrong.
11) The Ruziner (as a child) and the Alter Rebbe: stepping away from יחודא עילעא to do the Mitzva of loving God. It also allows for בירורים.
12) Introduction to בטחון and אמונה.
אמונה is a state of mind: I live in God's world [faith vs. superstition].
בטחון is a choice to trust God to give revealed good, and thus create the vessel for the revealed good.
[בטחון without אמונה is impossible and not Jewsih].
Talk Six
13) |
| Two talks to the Shluchim on Bitachon and Emuna. | Talk One. (Sivan 5770).
PDF
Bitachon.
Lizchus Refua Shlaima for Levi Deitch A"H.
We live in God's world and God is good so His world is good as well.
Talk Two (Shvat 5774).
Emuna.
To place belief above doubt absolutely. |
| Shmues #1. | what does Avodah mean? |
| Shmues #2 - | Fruits of Yeshiva Study |
| Shmues # 3. | The Chassidus of Learning Torah
The 2nd shiur in a 2-part series on the Chassidus of Tefillah (Prayer) and Learning Torah
Each shiur is self-standing |
| Shmues # 4, Kashrus |
In the first class of our new Kashrus series, Rabbi Paltiel addresses the question, "Why do we eat kosher food?". He draws on Rashi, Sforno, Rasag, and Rambam and clearly lays out the stark contrasts between these great commentators. This class is packed with information and presents a substantial taste of the original language from these sources. A truly motivational class both in terms of the avoda of kashrus as well as the avoda of Torah study. We will prepare study guides with all the texts to go along with this series - with Hashem's help. Great listening for the long hours of cleaning, kashering and kosher cooking ahead! |
| Shmues # 5 A Jewish Beard. | This class is a discussion of beards including halacha, brachas brought by a beard, the mystical interpretation of the prohibition against shaving, and stories of how communities and individuals have dealt with wearing a Jewish beard in the "modern" world. |
| Shmues # 6 A thought on the reasons for Mitzvos. | Class.
1) To improve character, 2) to elevate one's thoughts and values, 3) Leshaim Yichud (Kabbalah). |
| Shmues # 7 the Tanya's secret. | Tanya, a holy book written by a holy man that embraces the Yezter Hara.
This class given at Beth Rivkah Seminary on 24 teves 5775,
In this class it is underscores that the Tanya is a most encouraging (rather than discouraging) book, as it accepts the struggle of the ordinary person.
Ideally it empowers one to 'never sin again',
but one who cannot, learns from the Tanya never to give up! |
| Shmues # 8 Vegetarianism | Vegetarianism
A thought on the Jewish perspective to this very modern question.
The world keeps changing (what it considers important) Torah doesn't change at all. |
| Shmues # 9 Holiness | Holiness
What makes something holy and something else is not holy?
Purity and Holiness. |
| Shmues # 10 Mikra and Kabalah | Mikra and Kabbalah (a thought).
Why the TaNaCh doesn't get the attention it deserves, and how this is different it Pnimiyus HaTorah. |
| Shmues # 11 Action. | A religion of ritual.
[A class on a Ma'amar that has a broader ramification]
The class involved a Mashal amd a Nimshal.
The Mashal: The idea that Yiddishkiet is (called) a religion of ritual. hat bothers people about that and why is it right?
The Nimshal: Although creation is based on divine concealment, but there is an aspect of revelation in the finished and end product which we call שטח.
התחלקות והתכללות. |
| Shmues # 12 One lives when he learns to pause in life. | ופנה לסובב take a look around.
An excerpt from a Siddur class about the powerful energy and the gentle precision needed to get through life.
And that the bridge between them is the ability to pause and hesitate. |
| Being a Mashpia on others | Beis Rivka seminary (5774/2014).
how can young people who are still so dependent on their Mashpiim be a Mashpia for another? |
| Reinforcing Natural Emuna (Belief) | This talk focuses on aspects of chinuch (education) including: how to make a connection with young students, reinforcing a child's natural belief in Hashem, and teaching good middos (behavior). Rabbi Paltiel gave this talk in 2004 at the teacher's appreciation dinner at the end of the school year for B'nos Menachem in Brooklyn. |
| Chassidishe Chinuch (5777/ 2017). | A talk given at the conference on Chinuch that took place in New York the week of Gimmel Tamuz.
The class begins with ideas about child rearing (in the mind of the Rebbe) in general.
Then we move on to Chassidishe Chinuch: Fire and honey.
Faith and development of the mind.
1) Kabbalas Ol, 2) Involvement in the behavioral aspects of Yiddishkeit, 3) altruism in children. |
| Chinuch. | Pittsburgh, Pa. 11 Nissan 5777/ 2017.
Chinuch cannot be a reaction to the way we were raised; that is not parenting, but living out our childhood through our Children.
Chinuch means deciding what we want our children to be and work to make it happen.
"I want my children to be like me". |
| Oholei Torah Melave Malka (5777/ 2017) | A talk on balance, faith, and hard work. |
| וחי בהם, we must learn to live as Jews not to suffer. (Toronto 5776/ 2016). | Often what separates us from our children is the hardships we may have known that our children don't know and want no part of.
Understanding this will allow us to raise them, differently than we were raised so they should be the same as we are. |
| Parenting - It's Never Too Late | This is a wonderful talk on parenting that will make you laugh and provide you with many useful ideas whether you are planning to be a parent, in the middle of raising children, or a grandparent. Teachers will also find much value here. The talk was originally given on the occasion of Pesach Sheni but it is relevant year round.
Note: The yiddish phrase referred to is "Nitoh kein farfallen" ("It's never too late")
Chinuch Shiur in S. Africa 2008 - Part 1
Chinuch Shiur in S. Africa 2008 - Part 2 |
| Short Thoughts | Thought One.
Tzoros, what won't destroy you will strengthen you (5775/2014).
Hardships either bring the best or worst out of us, we survive by having Bitachon and learning to stop playing God.
Thought Two.
Mishna Neshama
A thought on why we study Mishna to help along the Neshama of a deceased relative.
Thought Three.
אחרי מטתו של ר' יקתיאל מנחם בן ר' שרגא ע"ה ראפ
|
| Class Ten | Rabbi Avremel Levitansky, a talk (in two parts) given on the occasion of his tenth Yahrtzaait.
Part One.
Stories.
Anecdotes about him, and some incredible stories about his relationship with the Rebbe and the Rebbe's relationship with him.
Part Two.
He made everyone feel as though they were him while around him.
The lesson is to hold on to some of that in a real way. |
| Class Nine. | The Twenty third Yahrtzait of Ari Halberstam HaYa"D.
When we look only only forward and when we afford ourselves to look back.
A Kadosh, What is Mesiras Nefesh Al Kidush Hashem.
What the Soul does for us and what we do for the Soul.
Lessons:
We Need G-d.
We need one another. |
| Class Eight. | Why Mishnayos in conjunction with a Yahrtzeit and a deceased person (beyond משנה אותיות נשמה)
Neshamos of the deceased on the level of light not life, Mishnayos keeps them somewhat closer to life. |
| Class Seven. | What to tell the Children?
PDF
A letter from the Rebbe telling a father how and what to tell his his children about the [passing of their mother.
The class explores the Rebbe's idea that death is only a physical separation but not a real disunion.
The class explores the controversy of this idea which the Rebbe shared hundreds of times with so many people.
The information shared here is not certain by any means we are putting it up in spite of the uncertainty. We expect to be judged favorably. |
| Class Six. | To Nediv's Friends
Given at the end of shiva to the friends of Nediv Kehati who passed away so suddenly at the age of thirty.
This class makes three points:
1) feel, there is value in just crying, even our Rabbeiim cried.
2) Accept, as angry as you are you never need God more than right now, accept Him and His judgement.
3) act, make someone else not lonely. |
| Class Five. | A letter that explains sadness and mourning (5775/2014).
This class is a class on a letter written to the Chossid Reb Eliyahu Shmuel Kahanov on the occasion of the passing of his wife,
In this class the idea that emerges is that there is a difference between sadness by Tzadikim and by ordinary people. |
| Class Four. | Tragedy (5774/2014).
Part of a Shiur given (at the Yeshiva) after the passing of Mrs. Rashi Minkowitz. |
| Class Three. | When what happens is overwhelming (5774/2014).
A talk given in Beis Rivka Seminary after the passing of Mrs. Rashi Minkowitz. |
| Class Two | Healing through joy.
This shiur was given to provide chizuk to a community in the wake of a tragic event. |
| Class One (5767/2006). | Reflections on Aveilos (Mourning). A shiur given on the occasion of the 2nd yarhtzeit of Chanie Kolodny (a"h) |
| 6 Kislev 5777 (2016). | The Rebbe and Rebbetzin's תנאים. |
| 15 Menachem (5774/2014). | Marriage.
This class discusses Marriage, Teshuva, and free will. |
| Shalom Bayis Shiur in S. Africa 2008 | Part One. MP3
Part Two. MP3
|
| 11. Vayakhel Moshe 5712 |
Class One. 1) Moshe gives instructions the day after Yom Kippur about correcting the sin of the Golden Calf. This requires total Bitul of the Avoda Zara idea on all levels. This is achieved by a totally indifferent attitude toward Parnassa, which makes Parnassa something we do only because we MUST and accordingly one does it with great Mesiras Nefesh יגיע כפיך כי תאכל אשריך וטוב לך. Class Two. 2) Just as Parnassa is done so indifferently that it ends up being a chore, so too קבלת עול מלכות שמים on the highest level is where the person has no personal interest, only what Hashem wants. This also overturns the sin of עגל which is עבודה זרה. Class Three. 3) This is the end of the Ma'amar explaining the Pesukim-- Vayakheil, to gather all aspects of all Yidden and the world in general, and join them together in the effort of making a דירה לו יתברך בתחתונים. This is through work ששת ימים תעשה מלאכה, so we can have משיח, which is שבת שבתון that is earned through indifferent involvement in מלאכה, as indicated in the very same words: ששת ימים תיעשה מלאכה. |
| Class One Hundred and Thirty One, Shabbos (before Mattan Torah) and the Manna |
Class One Hundred and Thirty one, Shabbos (before Mattan Torah) and the Manna. |
| What will be is happy what was is sad- why (5777/2017). | The Gemara says: אין והי' אלא לשון שמחה and אין ויהי אלא לשון צער
Why?
Potential is infinite in it's possibilities, what is actual even jn the best case scenario is limited.
How the Rebbe looked at children. |
| G-d's covenant with non-Jews (5777/2017). | He broke for because he didn't want continuing hurting so many people. |
| Mysticism (5777/ 2016). | A thought, the craze and what is wrong with it. |
| RaMbaM and Philosophy (5776/ 2016). | A thought. |
| The miracle of every day (5775/2015) | |
| Living as a Jew is harder than dying as one (5775/2014). | a novel (perhaps extreme) insight into why so many people are having so much trouble keeping their children frum is because we have yet to learn how live like Jews. |
| Hippies and infinity (5775/2014). | This thought, which was part of a Siddur class, asks the question, why do we fear infinity? and answers the question using the Hippies as a model.
What is the alternative ti infinity if, in fact, infinity can be very dangerous. |
| Ta'amei HaMitzvos, a thought (5774/2014). | 1) To improve character, 2) to elevate one's thoughts and values, 3) Leshaim Yichud (Kabbalah). |
| Yom HaAtzmut, (5775/ 2015). | What is our issue with Zionism if we support the state?
everything Jewish Must be religious. |
| Zionism and ChaBaD (Yom HaAtzmaut and the Rebbe). (5774/2014). | A thought.
The Chabad Rabeiim were traditionally very anti Zionism, but that seems to have changed when Israel became a state, how can we make sense of our philosophy. |
| The World is a Globe. (5774/2013). | The world is really like a (in the image of God) man, who is famously horizontal, but it is 'curled up' in a fetal state what would happen when it would be born? |
| Prophecy nowadays (5774/ 2013). | Prophecy is very infrequent nowadays but it maybe higher than it was during the era of prophecy. |
The first thing that happens between a couple is their wedding - is it superficial or a microcosm of their whole life together? This class is a comparison of two ma'amarim (discourses) on the (chasuna) wedding day. One from Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson (the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe) from 5689 (1928) and one from Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson (the Lubavitcher Rebbe) from 5714 (1953). Rabbi Paltiel speaks to a group of young men including a chosson (groom) in preparation for a wedding.
A beautiful analysis of Aishes Chayil prefaced by several stories. Recorded at a talk given at a Toronto Shabbaton.
What should be so easy can be so hard.
What would Chassidus add to Kibud av vaAim?
Beis Rivkah high school (5776/ 2105)
When we find our parents not perfect tell yourself (like it is written in Iggeres HaKodesh 25) this i not them this is the will of God.
I honor them because of the divine command.
The Chassidic approach (to Teshuva)- Don't be afraid of Him (He's your Father). Do it out of love.
Parshas Toldos (a lesson in Chinuch) 5780 (2019)
Aisav is greater but extreme, Yaakov is balanced and sustained.
The lesson in our lives.
First Version: Yeshiva.
Second Version: Chicago, Rosh Chodesh Kislev Farbrengen
What's the difference between Emuna and Bitachon? Faith is like the air we breath, we must have it and it is basic to our existence. Trust is a choice under trying times to טראכט גוט וועט זיין גוט. There is an ill unique to our generation where people have Bitachon and not Emuna.
4 Marcheshvan 5720, Dor Haflaga Lesson
Class One: You survive a holocaust, rebuild correctly and not selfishly The lesson from this for Chinuch
Class Two: The cities and towers must be of Torah and they are forever and you "even" get fame as a secondary reward.
Perek 2, Class 9
The idea of loving and not hating, and not even thinking hatefull thoughts.
Tanya Iggeres HaKodesh 23 נא ונא וכו' ואיש את רעת רעיהו אל תחשבו וכו' כמחשבת עבודה זרה ממש
Rambam does say it positive (הלכות דיעות פרק ו' הלכה ד) but Hilel and Chassidus see a point in the indirect form.
Perek 2, Class 10.
Inside. Why is the Gemara indirect (or negative): what you don't want done to you don't do to your fellow, rather than positiveL DO onto others what you want done to you (as it is in רמב"ם הלכות דיעות םרק ז' הלכה ד)?
Answer because it is hinting also to thought: don't think of another badly, as per אגרת הקדש כ"ב at the end.
This doesn't mean you don't see the fault, it is מקיף, part of the entire person., as we see our own faults.
Example court of law.
Perek 2, Class 11.
In Tanya Chapter 32 two reasons are given why Ahavas Yisroel is the entire Torah:
1) To raise the Neshama up, (which was discussed at length until now)
2) To bring Hashem down (which really means דירה בתחתונים) and that depends on Ahavas (and Achdus) Yisroel, as through our unity He rests (as per אגרת הקדש סימן ל"א).
Perek 2, Class 12.
Introduction, the Rebbe explains the expression ופירש הבעל שם טוב ז"ל (In Shaar Hayichud VihaEmuna Perek 1) to mean to spread out and reveal (though it has a source in מדרש תהילים)
Similarly when הלל says ואידך פירושרא הוא (according to the second point in Ahavas Yisroel- to bring G-dliness down) that when there is the Ahava, Hashem is brought down through one of the Mitzvos.
Example: Talsi, Malchus, Bittul, Yirah.
Story Telling The place of telling stories in our culture. When is telling stories that didn't happen exactly as told education and when is it lying. A story that is true, even when it isn't, is educational. What about negativity and sadness, and learning about the hardships of "the real world".
Perek 1, Class 1.
This class introduces the Ma'amar and explores the Chinuch, the Gemara and the Arizal's suggestion that everyone say each day (in the morning) הריני מקבל עלי מצות עשה של ואהבת לרעך כמוך
We further explored the Kabbalah that says that all Souls are parts of the Neshama of Adam HaRishon and that this is the basis for the idea of ערבות (Guarantor-ship).
Perek 1, Class Two: Introductory class.
Explaining "אדם העליון" and the idea of אצילות and התכללות as apposed to תהו and תערבות.
The משל is from the רבינו בחיי and his referencing the idea of כח ההמרה which is the idea of cellular regeneration.
This order and finitude adds up to אין סוף not because it's infinite but because it's order is infinite.
Living forever is a Mashal for Atzilus.
Perek 1, Class Three: Introduction continued.
Atzilus really works because of M"A- a deeper sense of purpose.
M"A comes from the forehead (while revelation comes from אח"פ and עינים- the orifices in the "face of א"ק"), which is a great concealment on the hand and an expression of the ("face") essence on the other.
Perek 1, Class Four: a little inside.
Adam HaRishon general Soul includes us all.
Perek 1, Class 5:
We read inside.
Adam includes all Neshamos as one, but then they manifest and separate.
Ahavas Yisroel is that even as they are manifest they (can be) are one because of the source, M"A.
Perek 1, Class 6:
The Hiskalelus is rooted in the fact that in Adam we were all one actually and because of the interconnection between each of us and all of us, we can continue being one even down here.'
The Rebbe proposes that this has to do with the fact that on the (Ohr) Neshama level we are still one.
We added that in later Ma'amarim (especially in עין בית) the Rebbe explains that it is really because of the body and the Keli and that is really where the extra Bittul presides.
Perek 1, Class 7: Continued from class 5, why and how we are all connected.
However I would like to explore Gilgul Neshamos and the idea that all Neshamos in "Guf" are born before Moshiach comes.
Perek 1, Class 8:
תמים יהי' לרצון
Davening is like a Korban and like a Korban it must be whole so I mustn't hate any Yid, because if I did I'd hate and dis-include part of myself from my "Korban".
The Rebbe writes to someone about Simcha but insists that it be for Hashem and not for the Rebbe
Simcha SHel Mitzvah vs Simcha BiTaharasah
This short class enlightens the מנהג ישראל תורה היא, the Jewish custom, about waiting three years to cut a little boy's hair. Many ideas are touched on here. This class is accompanied by a PDF that Rabbi Paltiel prepared for the Upsherin of one of his own sons. It includes Chassidus from two Chabad Admorim about this subject with commentary and more.
1) Bringing a Korban vs. building a Beis HaMikdash
The Rebbe's words to people whose relatives were near the end and their reactions.
What is a Rebbe meant to do?
These classes were given to the Bochurim of Yeshivas Lubavitch Cincinnati after the Passing of their beloved teacher הרב חיים שניאור זלמן בן הרב שלום שמעון יעקב שליט"א Baras.
Class One: A talk on how Jewish people approach mourning. 1) Tzadok Hadin, we accept that we cannot understand 2) Sometimes you just cry 3) We don't make Hashem right, but we accept, "no questions on Hashem". 4) what about the Rebbe's Bracha לאנגע גיזונטע חסידישע יארען? 5) אמונה Faith is like the air we breathe, בטחון is a choice of how we approach the challenge.
Kosher an overview. This class includes many stories and inspirational anecdotes from the Rebbe and others to support keeping kosher not only to the letter of the law but also to its spirit. We touch on לא תאכל כל תועבה that what is not Kosher is abominable. The Rebbe introduced the two Mivtzoim Kosher and Taharas Hamishpacha at the same farbrengen and explained that these Mitzvos done in private determine the lasting adherence of Jews (including young ones, "the next generation") into the future. Kosher heals and prevents illness. Eating only "our own" is the real basis for this idea. The issues of חלב עכו"ם, בישול עכו"ם and פת עכו"ם. The idea that there should be a separation between Jews and non-Jews, and that food brings us closer together. What the Torah says about that. Kosher and Moshiach.
An overview of the basic attitudes in Chinuch given at Maon Noam outreach center.
Five points: 1) Shalom Bayis 2) Being a living example at home 3) the ongoing conversation in a Jewish home 4) school 5) friends. We have more influence over our children than we think. We must use it, but without too much emotion.
The irony is that people don't give when forced only when they are free. because giving takes strength not weakness.
[audio mp3="https://insidechassidus.org/wp-content/uploads/sichos-on-aveilus-.mp3"][/audio]
Shloshim
Given at the Shloshim for אייזיק יצחק בן שלמה ורחל דינה ע"ה.
A man who had every reason not to live and lived life to the fullest.
What is Shloshim (and more).
Religious Jews are socially conservative does that mean that they are fiscally conservative as well?
Which path is better? Is there a better path?
Why would Hashem allow Lincoln to be assassinated at the end of the Civil War and let him finish the good he started?
Change doesn't happen easy.
A talk given in Minnesota on the meaning of the Jewish people.
The Jewish Soul relate back to Avrohom Avinu.
The Jewish Body relate to the time the Jewish people left Egypt crossed the Yam Suf and received the Torah, and were Chosen.
A nation is צבו"ר= צדיקים בינונים ורשעים a nation means even the worst member is a complete member,
This is what G-d wants: a people.
Vladimir Posner: a Jew cannot be defined by any social criterium. Because we are our Neshama!
Ask our Enemies:
Hitler: because Jews are weak and create weakness in the world through their compassion and kindness.
Stalin: because Jews are revolutionaries and they couldn't be control.
This is a dichotomy; and the TRUTH of what a JEW is lies here.
But the TRUTH of the Jew requires both of these; and when a Jew is busy only with one of these poles (in a Polar way) he is sick.
Class One.
Based on the Alter Rebbe's Ma'amar in Likutei Torah,
This class, which is the first of two is dominated by what appears to be the Rebbe's questioning the Alter Rebbe:
The Alter Rebbe explains that after Mattan Torah (some part of) the Jewish Neshama is revealed.
He goes as far as explaining this regarding a Jew (whose 'Yud' is revealed) in his feelings of regret fro sin which he does not -even- act upon. The questions this exclusion of the Jew with no regret.
The Rebbe finds a way to include him as well, the fire will brighten later on.
The Crown of the Yud.
Class Two.
Each Letter of Havaya is another aspect of the Neshama of each and every Yid, when this is not complete not is not good
it is corrected through Teshuva (even during the Golus itself).
Elul already includes all that will follow from it.
15 Menachem av is opposite Tisha Bi'Av
Ahavas Yisroel is opposite Sinas Chnom and brings the Geula.
This Ma'amar focuses singularly on loving a fellow Jew (very powerful).
וה' פקד את שרה תשמ"ג
Class one.
Mazal is the source for Children health and Parnassa.
In the case of Jewish people, this is the level of אין which is interpreted to be the deepest level possible.
We reach and affect the מזל through an עבודה on the level of בכל מאדיך which is the יחידה.
Class Two.
This class discusses that the Yechida בכל מאדיך discussed before that brings blessings all the way down to the physical level also has a similar affect on the Sefiros and Kochos that they should achieve התכללות and ultimately התאחדות.
In human terms this is the ideas of אהבת ישראל and the higher level: אחדות ישראל, which is reached by the revelation of the יחידה.
This Maamr is really a "Im Kesef talve" Maamar.
This Ma'amar which deals with Gemilas Chasadim, places this Mitzva not only above Tzedaka, but above all the Mitzvos:
Tzeadaka corrects BY"A, Mitzvos enhance Atzilus, GeMaCh touches the Ein Sof and it has nothing to correct, change or improve. So, the reward for touching Keser, is touching Keser itself.
How all this ties on with the ideas of mashpia and Mikabel, The moon's disappearance in order to be reborn.
Also known as 'Der Frumer VaAira'.
Class One.
"The Frumer VaAira" of the Alter Rebbe (origionally) reviewed by the Rebbe in 5712.
The Ma’amar is being taught in two classes.
This class overviews the Ma’amar and some of its' history.
It then explores the 'Zoche' person who need not do Teshuva because 1) he reaches Hashem through Torah and Mitzvos (that are one with Him) and 2) never wastes a second and never loses any 'L’vush’. He is therefore worthy of Moshiach with no need to do Teshuva.
Class Two.
1) why must Teshuva be a prerequisite to Moshiach? Is there not the option of not sinning in the first palace?
2) Ki Lo Yidach Mimenu Nidach... (nothing is lost) doesn't mean of Jewish Souls but of Godly sparks,
3) Consequently, virtually no person is in fact above the need to correct what he wasted from the Godliness he was given (even if it is only a moment of time).
4) How one can inspire himself to feel so bad about wasting short amounts of time.
5) In fact teshuva reaches higher than the (rare) perfect person.
6) VaAira.... Keil Shakai... Havaya this is the Tzadik and the Ba'al Teshuva.
"Der Frumer vaAira" (5554).
Long Version (Yeshiva, 5773/2013).
The Alter Rebbe's Maamar about no sparks (or Jews) being lost, that it may (not only include but) necessitate Teshuva davka, and it cannot happen without this.'
Short overview (Beis Miodrash Linashim, 5773/2013).
review of "the Frumer VaAira" of the Alter Rebbe.
The 15th of Menachem Av celebrates the idea of T'shuva and the joy the opportunity brings (it actually reverses the churban Beis HaMikdash) that is even more exhilarating than Yom Kippur.
(From the Slichus) of Tzom Gedalia.
Horaisa Derech Teshuva Livas Hashoveiva. The poem included in the Tzom Gerdalia Slichus (as is the case with much of this Slichus) it's more about Aseres Yemei Teshuva than about Gedalia.
Examples of Baalei Teshuva.
The invalid is disqualified from working in the Beis haMikdash, why?!
Because he is not about balance but compensation, and and the Beis HaMikdash is all about balance.
The advantage of the 'Compensator' also known as the Baal Teshuva.
A thought on Teshuva.
This discussion took place in Beth Rivkah seminary as oart of our Tanya class.
We explore the classic idea of Teshuva in contrast tp the changes the Rebbe introduced to how we should do Teshuvah.
The Teshuva and Davening nowadays must be done only with joy because 1) We're too low to afford any kind of sadness 2) We've completed all aspects of sad Avoda. The question is still, how is the Tachlis of Totah Teshuva and Maasim Tovim. He explains that the point of Torah is to know Atzmus which is achieved through Teshuva and good deeds.
Class One.
Simcha is explored in this class:
Joy allows for complete Avodas Hashem;
It involves great humility.
It needs to be constrained so that it not result in something unholy.
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strong>Class Two.
The issue of Murgash (external and demonstrative passion) that was described as undesirable in the last class, is the Avoda of: Chava, Noach and Sara.
Only Sara manages to handle it correctly.
This is why her death and age are recorded in so much detail.
Twice it says חיי שרה to connote 1) her achievement and 2) That her achievement is hers.
Class Three.
Lesson מעשה אבות סימן לבנים.
We are in the position to be BeSimcha and show it.
This is connected to ביום השלישי יקימנו ונחי' לפניו.
Class One.
Chayey Sara, Chava Noach and Sara shared the Avoda of bringing Bittul into Murgash [as opposed to Adam and Avrohom whose task was in the realm of the Bilti Murgash]. Noach tried a bittul of Chochma (wine, pinimyus Bina is Chochma) and failed; Sara tried a Bittul of malchus and succeeded because she was connected to Avrohom Avinu.
(next class: Simcha).
Class Two.
Simcha: 1) Joy reveals the atzmus created through the avoda of Dira BiTachtonim, 2) The prerequisite to joy is humility, 3) The joy (before the original sin was naturally) without murgash., 4) Nowadays the joy is bimurgash, and we must therefore have the joy hidden and the Yirah revealed.
The Rebbe's new approach.
A powerful talk on the avoda of simcha (joy). Packed full of stories and lots of warm Yiddish atmosphere. The talk is in English but includes Yiddish phrases and words (98% translated so everyone can understand). This recording was made at a Malave Malka (post-Shabbos gathering) in 2007. If you miss a point or the end of a story due to the Yiddish, let us know and we will send you a translation!
This talk was given as a video conference for a group in the UK in 2007.
Note: The sound in this audio file was amplified April 24 11AM. If it was too quiet for you in the past you may want to try downloading it again.
This class discusses אמונה which us מקיף and how we affect התישבות in this מקיף as the פסוק says בסוכות תשבו.
Class One.
Emuna is discussed in this class.
The Ma'amar explains that a Goy has Emuna only on the level of Mimalei Kol Almin.
He explains that even on this level there is a difference between Knowledge and Emuna.
By Yidden there are three levels of Emuna: 1) From Mimalei, (here also the Yid's Emuna is different than the Goy's), 2) From Sovev, all is one on this level, 3) In Atzmus.
Neshamos Yisroel comes from Machashava, Alu BiMachshava, higher than Machshava.
Class Two.
In this class we learn about the need for Moshe Rabbeinu: Every Jew has in his Neshama Emuna but it can be makif, like the thief who prays that Hashem grants him success at theft.
The internalization of faith, comes from Moshe who because of his oneness with Atzmus can strengthen our faith.
The class also explored (briefly) the beginning and end of the Ma'amar about Ki Tisa, the idea that Moshe doesn't simply count, he empowers and not only the actual Moshe but each and every Moshe in each and every subsequent generation.
Thoughts on the most recent series of Miracles.
1) Yerushalayim is announced as the capital and there is no real reaction in the world.
2) Family stays together even when things aren't perfect.
3) When one goes through this kind of suffering comes out purged and pure.
A blurb; we quote the RaMbaM from More Nivuchim section three chapter 12.
This little talk was a response to a question a student asked, it explores what it means that Jewish people are different, they are a nation of God, of miracles and even in Golus we live a different life.
the non-answer that is the best answer of all.
Class One.
The world is a jungle (by itself) and G-d's garden because of G-d's involvement.
The Even Ezra's justified pessimism and the RaMbaM's extra-ordinary optimism.
Do bad things happen to good people? According to the RaMbaM not as much as people say and think.
It is so much on our hands.
Three levels of bad: 1) natural, 2) communal, 3) individual.
Class Two.
The miracle of civics and the order of community and civilization, it is from G-d.
Naturally everything can fall apart מארגען אין דער פרי but with the divine involvement it is GOOD.
When we are tested we do all we can to "say it's good" אין עוד מלבדו.
The sun was shining.
להשכילך בינה.
The only explanation is השגחה פרטית לפי שיטת הבעל שם טוב.
Class Three.
The good we see in the agnostic camp is the direct influence of G-d.
Talk One.
Introduction, stories and overview.
1) Three meanings of Emunah: A. higher than reasonable bond, B. we nurse from our mother as an infant, C. Proffiect at it like a craftsman.
2) Jewish and non-Jewish faith, Sovev Kol Almin.
Talk Two.
3) Faith that is personalized is alive and brings great joy.
4) Strong faith and weak faith, we all have very strong moments of faith and weak moments. We celebrate the strong moments, and survive the weak moments, by going back to our childhood upbringing.
5) Knowledge vs. faith. Faith is a pre (or super) commandment and Knowing God intellectually is the first Mitzvah.
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strong>Talk Three.
6) Knowledge of God is the first commandment, knowledge of His unity is the second.
7) Achdus Hashem means that the world is one with Him [the idea that he is one s part of the first Mitzvah].
8) Three levels of Avhdus:
A. RaMbaM: he controlds the tools of creation. [The tools are themselves creations so the control isnt entirely exact].
B. Kabbalah: He controls the tools, but the tools are the s'firos and are thus perfect in their unity with Him and each other, making His Oneness with the world and His control perfect.
C. Chassidus: the world itself is Godliness.
Talk Four.
9) The 13 thirteen principles of Faith, are divided into three great principles: A.The Creator, B. Communication between Creator and His creation, C. Consequense, reward and punishment.
We read the 13 Principles inside and discussed each of them.
Talk Five.
10) Levels of faith: The men of Yericho skipped ברוך שם and for them it was right, because they were on the level of יחודא עילעא, but for the rest of us it would be dishonest and wrong.
11) The Ruziner (as a child) and the Alter Rebbe: stepping away from יחודא עילעא to do the Mitzva of loving God. It also allows for בירורים.
12) Introduction to בטחון and אמונה.
אמונה is a state of mind: I live in God's world [faith vs. superstition].
בטחון is a choice to trust God to give revealed good, and thus create the vessel for the revealed good.
[בטחון without אמונה is impossible and not Jewsih].
Talk Six
13)
Talk One. (Sivan 5770).
PDF
Bitachon.
Lizchus Refua Shlaima for Levi Deitch A"H.
We live in God's world and God is good so His world is good as well.
Talk Two (Shvat 5774).
Emuna.
To place belief above doubt absolutely.
what does Avodah mean?
Fruits of Yeshiva Study
The Chassidus of Learning Torah
The 2nd shiur in a 2-part series on the Chassidus of Tefillah (Prayer) and Learning Torah
Each shiur is self-standing
In the first class of our new Kashrus series, Rabbi Paltiel addresses the question, "Why do we eat kosher food?". He draws on Rashi, Sforno, Rasag, and Rambam and clearly lays out the stark contrasts between these great commentators. This class is packed with information and presents a substantial taste of the original language from these sources. A truly motivational class both in terms of the avoda of kashrus as well as the avoda of Torah study. We will prepare study guides with all the texts to go along with this series - with Hashem's help. Great listening for the long hours of cleaning, kashering and kosher cooking ahead!
This class is a discussion of beards including halacha, brachas brought by a beard, the mystical interpretation of the prohibition against shaving, and stories of how communities and individuals have dealt with wearing a Jewish beard in the "modern" world.
Class.
1) To improve character, 2) to elevate one's thoughts and values, 3) Leshaim Yichud (Kabbalah).
Tanya, a holy book written by a holy man that embraces the Yezter Hara.
This class given at Beth Rivkah Seminary on 24 teves 5775,
In this class it is underscores that the Tanya is a most encouraging (rather than discouraging) book, as it accepts the struggle of the ordinary person.
Ideally it empowers one to 'never sin again',
but one who cannot, learns from the Tanya never to give up!
Vegetarianism
A thought on the Jewish perspective to this very modern question.
The world keeps changing (what it considers important) Torah doesn't change at all.
Holiness
What makes something holy and something else is not holy?
Purity and Holiness.
Mikra and Kabbalah (a thought).
Why the TaNaCh doesn't get the attention it deserves, and how this is different it Pnimiyus HaTorah.
A religion of ritual.
[A class on a Ma'amar that has a broader ramification]
The class involved a Mashal amd a Nimshal.
The Mashal: The idea that Yiddishkiet is (called) a religion of ritual. hat bothers people about that and why is it right?
The Nimshal: Although creation is based on divine concealment, but there is an aspect of revelation in the finished and end product which we call שטח.
התחלקות והתכללות.
ופנה לסובב take a look around.
An excerpt from a Siddur class about the powerful energy and the gentle precision needed to get through life.
And that the bridge between them is the ability to pause and hesitate.
Beis Rivka seminary (5774/2014).
how can young people who are still so dependent on their Mashpiim be a Mashpia for another?
This talk focuses on aspects of chinuch (education) including: how to make a connection with young students, reinforcing a child's natural belief in Hashem, and teaching good middos (behavior). Rabbi Paltiel gave this talk in 2004 at the teacher's appreciation dinner at the end of the school year for B'nos Menachem in Brooklyn.
A talk given at the conference on Chinuch that took place in New York the week of Gimmel Tamuz.
The class begins with ideas about child rearing (in the mind of the Rebbe) in general.
Then we move on to Chassidishe Chinuch: Fire and honey.
Faith and development of the mind.
1) Kabbalas Ol, 2) Involvement in the behavioral aspects of Yiddishkeit, 3) altruism in children.
Pittsburgh, Pa. 11 Nissan 5777/ 2017.
Chinuch cannot be a reaction to the way we were raised; that is not parenting, but living out our childhood through our Children.
Chinuch means deciding what we want our children to be and work to make it happen.
"I want my children to be like me".
A talk on balance, faith, and hard work.
Often what separates us from our children is the hardships we may have known that our children don't know and want no part of.
Understanding this will allow us to raise them, differently than we were raised so they should be the same as we are.
This is a wonderful talk on parenting that will make you laugh and provide you with many useful ideas whether you are planning to be a parent, in the middle of raising children, or a grandparent. Teachers will also find much value here. The talk was originally given on the occasion of Pesach Sheni but it is relevant year round.
Note: The yiddish phrase referred to is "Nitoh kein farfallen" ("It's never too late")
Chinuch Shiur in S. Africa 2008 - Part 1
Chinuch Shiur in S. Africa 2008 - Part 2
Thought One.
Tzoros, what won't destroy you will strengthen you (5775/2014).
Hardships either bring the best or worst out of us, we survive by having Bitachon and learning to stop playing God.
Thought Two.
Mishna Neshama
A thought on why we study Mishna to help along the Neshama of a deceased relative.
Thought Three.
אחרי מטתו של ר' יקתיאל מנחם בן ר' שרגא ע"ה ראפ
Rabbi Avremel Levitansky, a talk (in two parts) given on the occasion of his tenth Yahrtzaait.
Part One.
Stories.
Anecdotes about him, and some incredible stories about his relationship with the Rebbe and the Rebbe's relationship with him.
Part Two.
He made everyone feel as though they were him while around him.
The lesson is to hold on to some of that in a real way.
The Twenty third Yahrtzait of Ari Halberstam HaYa"D.
When we look only only forward and when we afford ourselves to look back.
A Kadosh, What is Mesiras Nefesh Al Kidush Hashem.
What the Soul does for us and what we do for the Soul.
Lessons:
We Need G-d.
We need one another.
Why Mishnayos in conjunction with a Yahrtzeit and a deceased person (beyond משנה אותיות נשמה)
Neshamos of the deceased on the level of light not life, Mishnayos keeps them somewhat closer to life.
What to tell the Children?
PDF
A letter from the Rebbe telling a father how and what to tell his his children about the [passing of their mother.
The class explores the Rebbe's idea that death is only a physical separation but not a real disunion.
The class explores the controversy of this idea which the Rebbe shared hundreds of times with so many people.
The information shared here is not certain by any means we are putting it up in spite of the uncertainty. We expect to be judged favorably.
To Nediv's Friends
Given at the end of shiva to the friends of Nediv Kehati who passed away so suddenly at the age of thirty.
This class makes three points:
1) feel, there is value in just crying, even our Rabbeiim cried.
2) Accept, as angry as you are you never need God more than right now, accept Him and His judgement.
3) act, make someone else not lonely.
A letter that explains sadness and mourning (5775/2014).
This class is a class on a letter written to the Chossid Reb Eliyahu Shmuel Kahanov on the occasion of the passing of his wife,
In this class the idea that emerges is that there is a difference between sadness by Tzadikim and by ordinary people.
Tragedy (5774/2014).
Part of a Shiur given (at the Yeshiva) after the passing of Mrs. Rashi Minkowitz.
When what happens is overwhelming (5774/2014).
A talk given in Beis Rivka Seminary after the passing of Mrs. Rashi Minkowitz.
Healing through joy.
This shiur was given to provide chizuk to a community in the wake of a tragic event.
Reflections on Aveilos (Mourning). A shiur given on the occasion of the 2nd yarhtzeit of Chanie Kolodny (a"h)
The Rebbe and Rebbetzin's תנאים.
Marriage.
This class discusses Marriage, Teshuva, and free will.
Part One. MP3
Part Two. MP3
Class One. 1) Moshe gives instructions the day after Yom Kippur about correcting the sin of the Golden Calf. This requires total Bitul of the Avoda Zara idea on all levels. This is achieved by a totally indifferent attitude toward Parnassa, which makes Parnassa something we do only because we MUST and accordingly one does it with great Mesiras Nefesh יגיע כפיך כי תאכל אשריך וטוב לך.
Class Two. 2) Just as Parnassa is done so indifferently that it ends up being a chore, so too קבלת עול מלכות שמים on the highest level is where the person has no personal interest, only what Hashem wants. This also overturns the sin of עגל which is עבודה זרה.
Class Three. 3) This is the end of the Ma'amar explaining the Pesukim-- Vayakheil, to gather all aspects of all Yidden and the world in general, and join them together in the effort of making a דירה לו יתברך בתחתונים. This is through work ששת ימים תעשה מלאכה, so we can have משיח, which is שבת שבתון that is earned through indifferent involvement in מלאכה, as indicated in the very same words: ששת ימים תיעשה מלאכה.
Class One Hundred and Thirty one, Shabbos (before Mattan Torah) and the Manna.
A very important but often overlooked aspect of Parshas Bishalach is the fact that Yidden received some Mitzvos at Mara, including Shabbos (Para Aduma and Dinim).
The idea of Mitzvos before Mattan Torah is explored here, using the model of "organized religion" vs "personal religion".
Mattan Torah adds the following two ideas:
1) It adds the אנכי to (an otherwise entirely logical) Torah
2) It organizes Yidden and Yiddishkeit, it mandates that we DO the Mitzvos.
Before it was "Personal" and a choice and is understood in two ways:
A. It is less than the Mitzvos we have, it is only reason and logic (and subject to change).
B. It is more than our Mitzvos, it is the idea of mesiras nefesh.
Example: The Bris Mila we do now we still call להכניסו בבריתו של אברהם אבינו.
In the case of Shabbos, it's being given before speaks to the idea that it is above the order of commandments, it goes to our core, זכר למעשה בראשית which (from one point of view) is higher than זכר ליציאת מצרים.
Keeping Shabbos is being a Jew.
The Gemara says: אין והי' אלא לשון שמחה and אין ויהי אלא לשון צער
Why?
Potential is infinite in it's possibilities, what is actual even jn the best case scenario is limited.
How the Rebbe looked at children.
He broke for because he didn't want continuing hurting so many people.
A thought, the craze and what is wrong with it.
A thought.
a novel (perhaps extreme) insight into why so many people are having so much trouble keeping their children frum is because we have yet to learn how live like Jews.
This thought, which was part of a Siddur class, asks the question, why do we fear infinity? and answers the question using the Hippies as a model.
What is the alternative ti infinity if, in fact, infinity can be very dangerous.
1) To improve character, 2) to elevate one's thoughts and values, 3) Leshaim Yichud (Kabbalah).
What is our issue with Zionism if we support the state?
everything Jewish Must be religious.
A thought.
The Chabad Rabeiim were traditionally very anti Zionism, but that seems to have changed when Israel became a state, how can we make sense of our philosophy.
The world is really like a (in the image of God) man, who is famously horizontal, but it is 'curled up' in a fetal state what would happen when it would be born?
Prophecy is very infrequent nowadays but it maybe higher than it was during the era of prophecy.