Popular Shows by Rabbi Shmuel Wagner Rabbi Shmuel Wagner
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1
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-6)
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-6)
Dec 19, 2025
41:04
After explaining the argument of the Greeks last week, the מאמר now explains how to fight against them, and how we see this in the story of חנוכה. Being that the Greeks defiled all the oil (-intellect), the only way to be victorious against them is by using the unbeatable power of the יחידה. Not only is there no struggle when it comes to יחידה; there is not even a discussion, because in the יחידה perspective, because there is no other option! In two words: מסירות נפש. This is what we celebrate on חנוכה - a Judaism centered around, and based on, unwavering dedication to Hashem, not because it makes sense, but because this is the only reality, and we are ready to defend this reality at any cost! (Link to JLI's video mentioned in the Shiur)
2
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-4)
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-4)
Dec 17, 2025
47:30
What exactly was bothering the Greeks about Judaism? What is at the core of doing מצות? Does understanding a מצוה weaken, or strengthen, one's connection to Hashem? We explore the perspective of the רמב"ם regarding מצות, and then the perspective of חסידות - uncovering that the Greeks had a problem, not (only) with illogical מצות, but with the Jewish approach of entirely disregarding logic.
3
VaHashem Amar 5737 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
VaHashem Amar 5737 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Oct 23, 2022
50:32
Welcome! In our מאמר, the רבי analyzes the differences between two מאמרים of פרשת וירא, from the years 5666 and 5667 (1905 and 1906). Although they are part of the same המשך (series) of מאמרים, they explain the פסוקים of "וה' אמר" from this week's פרשה differently. The רבי explains the concept of מצות being "Hashem's way", by way (pun intended) of an analogy: just as a physical road connects distant, even opposite, locations with each other, a מצוה connects the greatest levels of Hashem's Essence with this physical world!
4
VaHashem Amar 5737 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-5)
VaHashem Amar 5737 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-5)
Oct 31, 2022
50:39
Building on the explanation of why מצות are called "Hashem's way", the רבי רש"ב emphasizes that Interstate 613 must be a two-way street. Hashem sends down תורה, and we send back our מצות. This happens when our מצות are done, not out of rote, but with self-scrutinization and pushing oneself past the comfort zone. Why is it so important that we mirror back Hashem's Light through our מצות? The first explanation is because that is how we complete the road; the true point of the King coming down to the village is for the village to be raised back to him. When you do a מצוה, specifically when it is hard, you are showing up to the relationship, fulfilling the point of Hashem having given the תורה!
5
VaHashem Amar 5737 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-6)
VaHashem Amar 5737 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-6)
Nov 6, 2022
1:13:27
We finish our מאמר with two different explanations of what we accomplish by doing מצות: 1) Completing Hashem's trip into our world, revealing levels connected to Hashem's journey, 2) touching Hashem's very essence, the Quintessential Concealment, through dealing with our own personal concealment. The רבי beautifully connects these two explanations to the two מאמרים of the רבי רש"ב on פרשת וירא in המשך ס"ו, as they also connect to their respective placement on the calendar, as well as the רבי רש"ב's location when saying the two מאמרים! By understanding the fundamental difference in the approach of the two מאמרים, we also understand the difference in subtleties between the two מאמרים, as discussed in the beginning of our מאמר. We walk away from this מאמר with a newfound appreciation of מצות, either as they pertain to our relationship with Hashem, or to our personal life struggles.
6
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5745 Se'if 1-3
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5745 Se'if 1-3
Nov 13, 2022
60:00
In this 1-week שיעור we learn the beginning of ויהיו חיי שרה from the year 5745, where the רבי discusses the true depth of תשובה. Does תשובה really change me? Do I need to become a better person? How do I change my past that might not be so great? In learning a lesson from the life of שרה, the רבי uncovers the core identity of a person, which enables him to live his best life, without the need of 'transforming' his past! Novel explanation of a generations-old question on תניא included!
7
Padah Beshalom 5739 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Padah Beshalom 5739 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Nov 27, 2022
56:41
Beginning the מאמר, the רבי points out the paradox of "פדה" and "שלום", and highlights the extreme opposites found in the two words. The topic of the מאמר is then introduced: identifying the "peace" and "war" within oneself that takes place during Davening. Loving Hashem takes on three stages. In this שיעור, we focus on the contrast between the first two: a logical debate - "war" - between the two souls vs. a non-negotiable fact - "peace" - with which the G-dly soul overwhelms and overtakes the animalistic soul.
8
Padah Beshalom 5739 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Padah Beshalom 5739 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Nov 27, 2022
52:03
We continue to describe the love of Hashem taking place during Davening and specifically during שמע. While "בכל לבבך" definitely deals head-on with the enemy, that truth is that "בכל נפשך" is also not a true expression of peace, being that the enemy still exists, albeit subdued. True peace, as defined by the non-existence of the enemy, only happens in the world of "בכל מאדך", the world of יחידה, as it is nothing but an expression of Hashem, a reality in which nothing else exists. This is experienced (at this point of the מאמר) through true מסירות נפש, when a איד gives it all away not because he chooses to, but because of a non-choice reality - the reality of the יחידה!
9
Padah Beshalom 5739 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Padah Beshalom 5739 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Dec 6, 2022
53:42
We wrap up the מאמר by applying the three stages of נר"ן, חיה, יחידה to our day-to-day lives, thus answering the question from the beginning of the מאמר; how "פדה" and "שלום" can coexist. We first see how these three stages of war and peace existed in the lives of דוד and שלמה, giving us the three terms of "התלבשות", then "התגברות", and "מנוחה בעצם". In our day-to-day lives, these correspond to doing business, eating, and Davening (in a borrowed sense). The punchline is to be able to approach the ultimate involvement in גשמיות - business - with the complete clarity of the יחידה, wherein גשמיות can only exist as a springboard to serving Hashem. There is no other option. With such a mindset, "פדה - בשלום!". The World War is - Won!
10
Yom Asher Asah Hashem Lanu 5725
Yom Asher Asah Hashem Lanu 5725
Dec 11, 2022
52:25
In this 1-week מאמר, the רבי uncovers what is at the core of the celebration of י"ט כסלו, what caused it to happen, and the lesson we can all learn from it. The מאמר is based on the well-known letter of the אלטער רבי to ר' לוי יצחק of Berditchev, wherein the אלטער רבי describes his liberation of י"ט כסלו. The רבי analyzes the אלטער רבי's choice of words in recording the date upon which the salvation took place, and uncovers the depth of what is truly important about the day of י"ט כסלו. In the first half of the מאמר the discussion is centered around terminology of קבלה and חסידות. In the second half of the מאמר, the רבי spells it out in more simple terms. What was the great מסירות נפש of the אלטער רבי? In a fascinating twist, the רבי uncovers a much deeper מסירות נפש than the אלטער רבי agreeing to be imprisoned: The אלטער רבי agreeing to be freed!
11
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 1/2 (Se'if 3-4)
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 1/2 (Se'if 3-4)
Dec 18, 2022
57:01
What is the celebration of חנוכה about? We begin the מאמר outside, and then explore the deeper meaning of the Greeks' argument. What exactly was bothering them about Judaism? What is at the core of doing מצות? Does understanding a מצוה weaken, or strengthen, one's connection to Hashem? We explore the perspective of the רמב"ם regarding מצות, and then the perspective of חסידות - uncovering that the Greeks had a problem, not (only) with illogical מצות, but with the Jewish approach of entirely disregarding logic.
12
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 2/2 (Se'if 5-6)
Tanu Rabanan Mitzvas Ner Chanukah 5738 part 2/2 (Se'if 5-6)
Dec 25, 2022
44:33
After explaining the argument of the Greeks last week, we finish the מאמר this week by defining how to fight against it, and how we see this in the story of חנוכה. Being that the Greeks defiled all the oil - all the intellect - the only way to be victorious against them is by using the unbeatable power of the יחידה. Not only is there no struggle when it comes to יחידה, there is not even a discussion - because in the יחידה perspective, because there is no other option! In two words: מסירות נפש. This is what we celebrate on חנוכה - a Judaism centered around, and based on, unwavering dedication to Hashem, not because it makes sense, but because this is the only reality, and we are ready to defend this reality at any cost!
13
Ve'eileh Shemos 5726 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-4)
Ve'eileh Shemos 5726 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-4)
Jan 1, 2023
55:31
With פרשת שמות, we begin חומש שמות, the narrative of the Jews' slavery to, and ultimate redemption from, Egypt. The Biblical exile down to Egypt is still ongoing, because the redemption that took place then was only a partial redemption; we are constantly working towards the completion of that redemption. To understand our redemption, and redemption process, we must begin by identifying our Egypt. In this שיעור, we focus on the process of creation: as it was meant to be, and the corrupted version post חטא עץ הדעת. We see how it pertains to our life, being that our process of communication mirrors Hashem's process of creation.
14
Ve'eileh Shemos 5726 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-5)
Ve'eileh Shemos 5726 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-5)
Jan 8, 2023
59:12
We finish the מאמר by describing the גלות that exists even within what was meant to be the signs of Hashem - תורה and מצות. Elaborately, the רבי describes the narrowness we unfortunately experience in our Davening, learning תורה, and interpersonal emotions. The solution exists in the concept of "names", which is, ironically, where the problem presented itself as well. A "name" is the paradox of גלות and גאולה; of containing the עצם, while simultaneously concealing it. Just as the Jews in Egypt did, through tapping into our Jewish "names", our עצם, we can reveal the Light of Hashem in our lives, and experience true redemption!
15
Vayedaber Elokim El Moshe 5732
Vayedaber Elokim El Moshe 5732
Jan 15, 2023
59:21
As the exodus from Egypt begins in this week's פרשה, we see a conspicuous importance placed on שם הוי-ה in the opening פסוקים. What is its significance in connection to redemption? In the narrative of the פסוקים, we see a seeming contradiction in understanding משה's greatness. Was משה cherished by virtue of him himself being the seventh, or was he piggy-backing off the virtue of the אבות, with אברהם being greater than משה? While תורה indeed brings Hashem into our world, our מאמר explains that this can only happen through a איד connecting - and submitting himself - to Hashem, which takes place during, and through, Davening. The תורה is represented by משה, while Davening is represented by the אבות. While שם הוי-ה redeems this world with the light of תורה through משה, it can only happen with the framework of the selflessness expressed during Davening - the experience of the אבות.
16
Basi Legani 5743 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Basi Legani 5743 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Jan 22, 2023
51:16
This year's באתי לגני focuses on פרק י"ג of the פריערדיקער רבי's המשך. We begin the מאמר with setting the stage for פרק י"ג, by explaining what our job is, and how we get it done. Our job is to transform the lowest and lowliest situations of this world, situations in which G-dliness is so concealed that the foolishness of unholiness is the prominent reality. The way we get it done is by using the "treasures" that Hashem pumps in to this battle. Quoting תיקוני זהר, the theme of this פרק is how "אור אין סוף למטה מטה עד אין תכלית", Hashem's Infinite Light permeates the lowest of places. This is how we achieve the victory - as well as what the victory looks like. In this מאמר, the רבי focuses on the battleground: The world of ultimate קליפה, where Hashem's presence is not only hidden, but denied.
17
Basi Legani 5743 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-6)
Basi Legani 5743 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-6)
Jan 29, 2023
52:59
As we continue the מאמר, we uncover the depth as to why תורה writes so much about the depths of the קליפות. As the רבי explains, תורה is not only the energy of everything, including קליפות, it is also the antidote to be able to transform them to holiness, thus fulfilling the entire purpose of creation. While we indeed ask Hashem not to present us with the challenges and struggles born out of said קליפות, we are able to face them head-on as they exist within the G-dly framework of תורה. By learning about them in detail, we identify their spark of holiness and redeem their life energy out of the קליפות in which the sparks are trapped.
18
Basi Legani 5743 part 3/3 (Se'if 7-9)
Basi Legani 5743 part 3/3 (Se'if 7-9)
Feb 5, 2023
59:21
We finish the מאמר with a deeper understanding as to why תורה speaks of קליפה in such detail: The intimate knowledge of קליפה as found in תורה gives a איד the ability to completely transform all elements of קליפה, without getting stuck in it. This explains why משה was fearful of getting involved with פרעה, while at the same time תורה commands every איד to transform even the lowest levels of קליפה. Through the G-dly perspective of תורה, a איד can engage with קליפה without the fear of it possibly dragging him down. This evolved into a discussion of how דירה בתחתונים is accomplished through תורה vs. מצות. While Hashem is indeed brought into this physical world through our physical מצות, it is only revealed through the light of תורה.
19
Balailah Hahu 5744 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Balailah Hahu 5744 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Feb 12, 2023
52:47
As we begin this מאמר about פורים, we want to understand the מדרש that tells us that אחשורוש not sleeping is a reference to Hashem not being able to sleep. The פריערדיקער רבי uses this to explain how this part of the פורים story is the apex of the miracle. Being that the world operates around the behavior of the אידן, when the אידן are drowsy in their fulfillment of תורה and מצות, it causes a drowsiness in the world - גלות. Why is גלות compared to sleep? The difference between how a person operates awake vs. asleep is not in their functionality. It is about the method of their functionality, it is about the hierarchy of the psyche. While a conscious decision is one where preference is given to logic, then emotions, then expression, dreams on the other hand are chaotic, because there is no hierarchy of operation. This is a precise description of גלות: chaos reigns, what should be important is not, and vice versa.
20
Balailah Hahu 5744 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Balailah Hahu 5744 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Feb 19, 2023
53:41
As we continue the מאמר, the רבי introduces a major paradigm shift in our perspective of גלות. Like sleep, גלות is indeed when our energies are not functioning in their healthy state where precedence is given to the more important energies. However, this is only in our experience of the energies. The energies themselves are then in their most inherently powerful state, as they are in the very essence of existence, pre-regulation. Just as in the general סדר השתלשלות, the energies of Hashem as they are in אין סוף are unlimited, and therefore undefined. The definitions and limitations of אצילות and on lead to functionality. גלות is when סדר השתלשלות does not function regularly, but that does not mean that the system is shut down; in fact during גלות the system is experiencing an intense refresher, where the energies are receding to their source - and in their source they are inherently powerful. The problem, of course, is that this is only true in their source, while 'down here' we only experience the shut down. Unless...
21
Balailah Hahu 5744 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Balailah Hahu 5744 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Feb 26, 2023
59:57
As we wrap up the מאמר, the רבי applies our newfound understanding of גלות's secret power to the פורים story: If we can draw from the 'subconscious' power of גלות (sleep) the way it exists above and beyond סדר השתלשלות into our 'conscious' reality - סדר השתלשלות - then miracles can happen even within גלות! This affect is caused, as the פריערדיקער רבי explains, through the עבודה of מסירות נפש, as it was by the אידן in the time of the פורים story, when they went through an entire year - with all its accompanying ups and downs - with the staunch strength of מסירות נפש. This is because מסירות נפש has the same formula: energizing the daily powers of the נשמה with the unwavering power of the יחידה. So too for us, miracles can happen even while in גלות! Through infusing our daily תורה and מצות with the power of מסירות נפש - specifically that of "not feeling ashamed in the face of scoffers" - we draw from the subconscious energy of pre-operation into our system of operation!
22
Sichas Purim 5701
Sichas Purim 5701
Mar 5, 2023
41:54
What is a "Jew"? In this powerful שיחה, the פריערדיקער רבי offers a fascinating insight into the פורים story: What about מרדכי bothered המן? How did מרדכי spark an inner revolution amongst the Jews of his generation? What is the message of פורים for the Jews in America amid World War II, for us now, and forever?
23
Kimei Tzeischa 5742 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-2)
Kimei Tzeischa 5742 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-2)
Mar 19, 2023
53:25
We begin this מאמר on פסח with fusing two opposite interpretations of the פסוק that says "כימי צאתך מארץ מצרים אראנו נפלאות": Will the current גאולה be comparable to, or incomparably greater than, the גאולה from מצרים? The explanation is based on learning the topic of the spiritual level of Hashem's Presence that was revealed at יציאת מצרים, called חמשים שערי בינה, the Fifty Gates of Understanding. As we explore what that means, what was revealed at יציאת מצרים, and what will be revealed at the current גאולה, we end up with an explanation of how the two גאולות are the same, yet very different...
24
Kimei Tzeischa 5742 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Kimei Tzeischa 5742 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Mar 26, 2023
50:07
Continuing the compare-and-contrast analysis of יציאת מצרים vis-à-vis the final גאולה, the רבי explains the quality of יציאת מצרים, which is why we compare to it the final גאולה: Although יציאת מצרים was no as great in level as the final גאולה will be, it was the first גאולה, and therefore the beginning of the process for all subsequent גאולות. Bringing מתן תורה into the picture, we see the full sequence of the process, beginning with יציאת מצרים, continuing with מתן תורה - which then began a new step in the process - and finishing with the final גאולה. This explains why we use the plural term, "כימי צאתך", because every day is continuing the process of liberation that began at יציאת מצרים! The רבי invites us to break free of the new boundaries that each day brings. With such a lifestyle, we live a life of constant freedom!
25
Kimei Tzeischa 5742 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-7)
Kimei Tzeischa 5742 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-7)
Apr 2, 2023
57:50
As we wrap up the מאמר, the רבי uncovers a tremendous depth in the quality of יציאת מצרים, which explains why we compare the final גאולה to it, and why we will mention it even after the final גאולה: In our daily service of Hashem, יציאת מצרים represents "אתכפיא", when we can only subdue evil, either by ignoring it or by fighting it. As opposed to the final גאולה, which represents "אתהפכא", when we transform evil. Although transformation is obviously greater, there is a quality in fighting the evil - specifically in that there is evil to be fought. Hashem gives us temptations specifically to fight them, Hashem gives us challenges specifically to overcome them. When we do, we fulfill the deepest purpose of our creation, bringing Hashem tremendous pleasure! When משיח comes, we will not have any evil to fight; we will lack that עבודה of אתכפיא - and that is exactly why we will still mention יציאת מצרים! Struggles don't get in the way of your freedom; they are the way to your freedom!
26
Gan No'ul 5747
Gan No'ul 5747
Apr 23, 2023
56:57
In this wonderful מאמר, based on a מאמר of the רבי מהר"ש, the רבי uncovers a beautiful depth hiding within the fulfillment of מצות. Whereas מצות are likened to the "קידושין" (betrothal) stage of a relationship, and תורה to the "נישואין" (marriage) stage, it is possible to view מצות as merely a preparation for learning תורה. However, the רבי מהר"ש explains, Hashem is betrothing us with the fulfillment of מצות, because מצות are valuable; מצות are the source of life. This leads the רבי to uncover that truthfully, מצות too provide us with a romantic, deep connection to Hashem (albeit not on the same ultimate level of depth that תורה does)! When we fulfill a מצוה, we are not only keeping ourselves untainted and pure, designated for Hashem. We are also inviting Hashem into our psyche, transforming ourselves and becoming better people!
27
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Apr 30, 2023
50:03
Welcome to a new מאמר, as we approach the season of מתן תורה and שבועות! The מאמר is based on the פסוק that begins the saga of מתן תורה, which tells us that the אין came to the סיני desert on ראש חודש סיון. In his מאמר, the אלטער רבי offers two explanations as to why this date is significant: 1) ראש חודש is when the moon is at its smallest point, representing ביטול - self-nullification. 2) ראש חודש סיון is when we have finished refining our root emotions throughout the process of ספירת העומר. The רבי shows how these two explanations correspond to the two (opposite) prerequisite preparations that one must have before receiving the תורה: both ביטול, and שלימות - self-perfection. Being that the whole novelty of מתן תורה was that now a איד who learns תורה transcends him/herself and is fully connected with Hashem, we understand why ביטול is a necessary preparation. But why is self-perfection necessary? And, how do these two opposites co-exist?! Stay tuned...
28
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 2/4 (Se'if 4-6)
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 2/4 (Se'if 4-6)
May 7, 2023
49:43
Continuing in the מאמר, the רבי connects the two preparations for מתן תורה with the two words "מדבר" and "סיני": While "מדבר" represents the 1st preparation - the ביטול of the איד to Hashem, "סיני" represents the 2nd preparation - the perfection of working and refining oneself. Why is perfection and completion part of the package of the ביטול preparation? Well, what exactly is ביטול? Utter selflessness and negation of any expression? Or, perhaps it is identifying oneself - including all of one's expressions - solely as expressions of Hashem! With this newfound appreciation of ביטול, the רבי explains why תוספות wanted to learn the גזירה שוה that tells us when the אידן began their preparations for מתן תורה from the word "מדבר" - representing total ביטול. Yet, the גמרא did not learn it from there and instead learned it from "הזה" - as תוספות explains - because indeed, in the word "הזה" - representing expression - is where true ביטול is to be found!
29
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 3/4 (Se'if 7-8)
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 3/4 (Se'if 7-8)
May 14, 2023
53:04
Continuing in the מאמר, the רבי quotes and explains a מאמר of the רבי מהר"ש dealing with the גמרא's description of the אידן receiving two crowns for "נעשה ונשמע": Was the specialty of "נעשה ונשמע" in as of itself, or because of the אידן's dedication expressed in saying "נעשה" before "נשמע"? The רבי מהר"ש launches into a lengthy explanation of "קבלת עול מלכות שמים" vs. "קבלת עול מצות", and "רצוא" vs. "שוב", and explains that a crown is מקיף. As the רבי explains, when a איד does a מצוה, the connection to Hashem can still be trapped within the איד's personal experience, and be less about Hashem. Only when coming after the introduction of "נעשה", is it crown-worthy; a connection to Hashem, on Hashem's level!
30
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 4/4 (Se'if 8-11)
Bachodesh Hashlishi 5729 part 4/4 (Se'if 8-11)
May 21, 2023
44:09
As we finish the מאמר, the רבי uncovers the depth within "נעשה ונשמע", and the preparations necessary for מתן תורה: Why indeed must "נעשה" come before "נשמע"? The answer is, "נעשה" is true ביטול, and "נשמע" is fulfilling what Hashem wants. In order for the ביטול of "נשמע" to be complete, it must be preceded by "נעשה", and in order for the ביטול of "נעשה" to be aligned with Hashem's goal, it must be followed by "נשמע"! With this, we understand why we learn out the preparations for מתן תורה, not from "מדבר" - total ביטול - as would be intuitively perceived (and as תוספות suggests in his question), but from "היום הזה" - expression of self: Once we align our identity of self as total ביטול, we then fulfill our purpose of having been created, by expressing this 'self' and making a דירה בתחתונים!
31
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
May 28, 2023
45:00
As we begin the מאמר, the רבי points out the contrast between the words "מה" and "מאה" that the גמרא puts together in a way of אל תקרי … אלא. Seemingly, "מה" is nothing, and "מאה" is a great עבודה. How can they work together - to the point that one can only reach "מה" through "מאה"?! The מדרש brings a fascinating dialogue between דוד המלך and ה regarding דוד's request(s) of "אחת שאלתי". As explained by the מעזריטשר מגיד - and further explained by the רבי, what דוד המלך figured out was that there is the one essential point, with which all details are not even considered separate details. This is what משה is telling the אידן that ה is asking of them: one essential point, with which all the details of serving ה become illuminated, being that this point is the true essence of all the details (as will be explained throughout this מאמר). What is this one essential point? יראה. Why? Stay tuned...
32
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-5)
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-5)
Jun 4, 2023
53:07
We are looking for the essential point - the "מה" of אידישקייט - the one thing that Hashem asks us; the entry point into all the details, and through which all the details are illuminated and infused with energy. What is "מה"? (Correct) The רבי's explanation is, "מה" is the inherent ביטול that a איד has by virtue of his/her נשמה's essential bond with Hashem, as is expressed in מסירות נפש, which is beyond the confines of any expression; it just is. But how does one reveal this indescribable and inherently hidden essence? For that we have "מאה"! The hundred details, the expressions of the person's נשמה. These are the details that reveal the essence, and these are the details that get illuminated by the power of the essence!
33
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 3/4 (Se'if 6-7)
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 3/4 (Se'if 6-7)
Jun 11, 2023
51:53
As we continue in the מאמר, the רבי quotes the lengthy explanation of the צמח צדק on our פסוק: Even in the most challenging of times, a איד is guaranteed victory over any obstacles that are in his way of serving Hashem, if he only uncovers the "מה" - the essential point of his נשמה, which is always connected to Hashem; no matter how far he has gone. This מה can never be entirely destroyed. Yes, it can be lost, but it can be found as well. This is exactly the one essential point that Hashem is asking of the אידן: reveal your מה, utilize the essential power of the נשמה in every situation, thus revealing Hashem in this physical world, and fulfilling the purpose of the נשמה's descent into this world! Nice! What does that have to do with making 100 ברכות? Stay tuned...
34
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 4/4 (Se'if 8-10)
Ve'atoh Yisrael 5737 part 4/4 (Se'if 8-10)
Jun 18, 2023
54:15
As we finish the מאמר, we are given a deeper appreciation as to what transpires when we make a ברכה, bringing Hashem's Energy into this world. With this, we reshape our identity of self as one that expresses Hashem's Desire. This is what Hashem wants of us - to bring out our core power of "מה", specifically by getting out there and accomplishing - "מאה"!
35
Atem Nitzavim 5739 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-2)
Atem Nitzavim 5739 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-2)
Sep 4, 2023
46:28
Welcome to a new year of Sunday morning מאמרים! In today's מאמר, we begin with a discussion on the treaty that took place in this week's פרשה: geographically before the אידן entered ארץ ישראל, and calendrically every year before ראש השנה. The מאמר then segues into the פסוק of "כי תבוא", quoting the explanations of the בעל שם טוב, the מעזריטשער מעיד, and the אלטער רבי, respectively. This is the famous teaching of the בעל שם טוב in גן עדן quoted by the רבי רש"ב, on שבת פרשת כי תבוא, ח"י אלול, in the year 5652 (1892). We went back to see the שיחה of the פריערדיקער רבי where he sets the scene, describing this surreal experience!
36
Atem Nitzavim 5739 part 2/2 (Se'if 3-8)
Atem Nitzavim 5739 part 2/2 (Se'if 3-8)
Sep 11, 2023
50:42
As we see, a treaty must be made before entering ארץ ישראל, both within תורה (represented by תורה שבעל פה), on the map (represented by the fulfillment of מצות), and on the calendar (represented by ראש השנה). What is this treaty that is a prerequisite to all these experiences? Connecting the highest, most sublime levels with the practical, tangible, lowest of experiences. It is specifically in these 'lowly' acts where we find, and connect to, Hashem's Essence!
37
Le'oseh Niflaos Gedolos Levado 5734
Le'oseh Niflaos Gedolos Levado 5734
Oct 16, 2023
1:17:27
In light of the war that broke out this year (5784) in ארץ ישראל on שמחת תורה (October 7, 2023), we are learning a 1-week מאמר about miracles, said by the רבי on the שבת בראשית of 5734 (1973), during the height of the Yom Kippur War. In it, the רבי explains how אידן affect the entire process of creation, being that they are connected to the very Essence of Hashem Himself. The רבי goes through various levels of סדר השתלשלות, showing how it all is nothing to Hashem, and thus nothing to the אידן who are connected to Him. The רבי then explains how שבת בראשית is the source of energy for the rest of the year, just like ראש השנה, but higher!
38
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5751 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5751 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Oct 22, 2023
53:20
Why do we need to know about שרה's life span? How is this opening פסוק - like every פסוק in תורה - a lesson and an empowerment for every Yid? The רבי quotes the זהר, as explained by the generations of רביים before him, which guides us through סדר השתלשלות, and seeing it reflected in the פסוק's description of שרה's life. As we tour our inner psyche, we see how שרה's life is a guide for us to live a wholesome and perfect life. But, how does this explanation of חסידות fit with רש"י's explanation of the פסוק?
39
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5751 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-5)
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5751 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-5)
Oct 29, 2023
49:20
Continuing in the מאמר, the Rebbe explains the power of כתר, as the זהר says, "כללא דכולא", "encompassing everything". כתר is not an abstract energy, it is rather the energy within every tangible and concrete experience of intellect and emotion ("20" and "7"). As the זהר continues, this is the idea of making 100 daily ברכות. A ברכה is the formula of our entire עבודה in this world, which the רבי explains in a revolutionary way, uncovering a tremendous חידוש of דור שביעי in the way we view ברכות, and our entire עבודה!
40
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5751 part 3/3 (Se'if 6-8)
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5751 part 3/3 (Se'if 6-8)
Nov 6, 2023
54:23
What is the importance of the "higher" כתר coming and infusing the "lower" מוחין and מדות? Is it only that the "higher" receives from giving to the "lower"? Or is it, as the רבי makes us aware, because in the perspective of Hashem's Essence there is no "higher" and "lower"? This is the newfound appreciation of עצם: An עבודה of ביטול, of rejecting all perspectives - even spiritual ones - of self and self-perfection, and embracing the perspective of Hashem's Desire of having a דירה בתחתונים. This is the message of "כולן שוין לטובה", and with this the רבי answers the questions from the beginning of the מאמר and fuses together the explanations of חסידות and רש"י on this fundamental פסוק!
41
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-2)
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-2)
Nov 13, 2023
46:25
As we begin this מאמר, the רבי quotes the paradox of the words "פדה בשלום" - to peace, or not to peace? The explanation of the earlier מאמרים is, although usually Davening is an עבודה of war; of investing oneself into an intimate conversation with the נפש הבהמית, if it is done with the power of יחידה, there is but one guaranteed outcome - victory!
42
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-5)
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-5)
Nov 20, 2023
44:14
So what is יחידה, and how does it work? Continuing in the מאמר, the רבי offers us a glimpse into a life-changing core energy and how to trigger it. We then segue into an explanation of the two-tiered peace alluded to in the פסוק of "ושבתי בשלום".
43
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-7)
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-7)
Nov 27, 2023
46:17
The רבי continues to explain the two levels of peace within "פדה בשלום" and "ושבתי בשלום": There is one level of peace focusing on getting rid of the enemy, and another level of peace focusing on transforming the enemy. We go into examples of this, both interpersonal and intrapersonal. Heading into the main חידוש of the מאמר, the רבי says that the ultimate completion of the peace is where the two focuses of peace fuse together. To explain this, we go into one of the מאמרים that the פריערדיקער רבי said for the רבי's wedding, explaining the necessity of feeling ביטול while learning תורה. How does this all connect? Stay tuned...
44
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 4/4 (Se'if 7-10)
Padah Beshalom 5722 part 4/4 (Se'if 7-10)
Dec 4, 2023
51:15
Wrapping up this מאמר, the רבי explains the holistic יחידה approach to peace: When we an uncover the core energy within everything in this world - its constant connection to Hashem and its willingness to be refined and used for Hashem - then we can have the advantages of מלמעלה למטה and מלמטה למעלה together! This happens when we awaken our יחידה, which happens when we express ביטול to Hashem, seeing ourselves and the world around us for what we truly are - one with Hashem and Hashem's Desire!
45
Ve'avdi Dovid 5746 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-3)
Ve'avdi Dovid 5746 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-3)
Dec 11, 2023
45:15
As we begin this מאמר, the רבי delves into the עבודות represented by יהודה and יוסף, respectively: Learning תורה - represented by יוסף - is an experience of logic, and of delight. Contrarily, doing מצות - represented by יהודה - is an experience of submissive, 'dry', and rigid קבלת עול. These are the two polar perspectives we have within our connection to Hashem.
46
Ve'avdi Dovid 5746 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-8)
Ve'avdi Dovid 5746 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-8)
Dec 17, 2023
51:04
Wrapping up the מאמר, we now have the two perspectives of learning תורה - serving Hashem with intellect and delight, and doing מצות - serving Hashem with submission and selflessness. The רבי ties it in with the well-known מחלוקת in the גמרא about which is greater: תלמוד or מעשה? Although the גמרא answers that תלמוד is greater, when משיח comes, מעשה will be greater. As the רבי explains, this expresses the core quality of serving Hashem with the ultimate selflessness of doing things purely for Hashem, without any ulterior motive, no matter how spiritual. What does this look like? What is the (possible) connection of this מאמר to ה' טבת? We finish the מאמר and segue into a פארברענגען!
47
Basi Legani 5744 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Basi Legani 5744 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Dec 24, 2023
53:24
We begin באתי לגני of the year 5744 (1984), in which the רבי is learning and explaining פרק י"ד of the פריערדיקער רבי's המשך. The theme of this פרק is how Hashem's Light is recognizable even within the lowest level of concealment, due to its Infinite Nature. The רבי begins by taking us through the process of Hashem removing His Light in the beginning of creation, especially through our sins, specifically for the purpose of us creating an even stronger level of Light. This is done through our עבודה as soldiers - צבאות ה - with commitment and קבלת עול, not getting intimidated by the darkness, and on the contrary, transforming it to the greatest level of Light!
48
Basi Legani 5744 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-5)
Basi Legani 5744 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-5)
Dec 31, 2023
43:56
Continuing in the מאמר, the רבי merges the discussion of פרק יג - last year's פרק - with פרק יד - this year's פרק: After showing how lowly and dark this world is, we appreciate the power of אור אין סוף in that Hashem's Infinite Light is (not only here but) relatable even within this physical world! How? The רבי delves into the fundamental סוגיא in חסידות, exploring the various descriptions used for Hashem's Presence being expressed in creation: "אור", "חיות" and "כח". We specifically highlight the difference between the connection of "אור" and the separation of "כח". What about "שם"? Join us in next שיעור...
49
Basi Legani 5744 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Basi Legani 5744 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Jan 8, 2024
53:46
As we finish the מאמר, the רבי explains the difference between the closeness of "אור" and the distance of "שם". However, it is specifically in the concealment of שם where the Essence of Hashem is available, and our עבודה of revealing it is accomplished. That is the עבודה of באתי לגני - creating the connection from within the separation!
50
Basi Legani 5710 Perek 14 part 1/2
Basi Legani 5710 Perek 14 part 1/2
Jan 21, 2024
44:54
In this שיעור, we begin פרק י"ד of the פריערדיקער רבי's המשך, with the explanations of the רבי from באתי לגני תשכ"ד. The theme of this פרק is how Hashem gives life to everything in this world, from the highest of creations to the lowest. As the רבי further explains, this includes even the deepest forms of קליפות, and even man-made situations of negativity. Hashem is everywhere, giving energy to everything, in every situation. It is our job to uncover that connection and to transform every situation to one of revealed G-dliness!
51
Basi Legani 5710 Perek 14 part 2/2
Basi Legani 5710 Perek 14 part 2/2
Jan 22, 2024
30:26
Finishing פרק י"ד, the פריערדיקער רבי explains this phenomenon of the אור extending itself into even the lowest of levels and yet retaining its essence of being אין סוף. We explore this identity of "אור אין סוף", as well as the contrast of אור and כח, and the example of the light shining through the colored glass, as illuminated by the רבי in תשכ"ד. The punchline of this פרק is - being that this אור אין סוף exists even within the lowest and lowliest of levels, it is our עבודה to reveal it, expressing Hashem's Essential Existence within our world and our reality!
52
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-2)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-2)
Jan 28, 2024
45:57
The רבי explains the historic מאמר of the פריערדיקער רבי from 51 years prior, in the year 5687 (1927). In this שיעור, we explore the history of the מאמר, and begin the explanation of how the מסירות נפש of the אידן in the times of מרדכי effected what even מתן תורה could not! As the רבי explains, the "כתית" that leads to the "מאור" - the oppression that leads one to uncover their essence - does not חס ושלום need to be one of physical, or even spiritual, lacking. Rather, when a person contemplates their state of being in contrast to how they should be as Hashem's chosen nation, they connect to Hashem from a state of the essence of their נשמה.
53
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-4)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-4)
Feb 4, 2024
51:31
Continuing in the מאמר, the רבי explains the necessity, and the benefits, of living a life of מסירות נפש. That is correct, living. Because, as we explain in the שיעור, the רבי is speaking to a generation that is not necessarily required to die with מסירות נפש, but is absolutely required to live with it. What dies it mean to live with מסירות נפש? What is the litmus test that you are serving Hashem and not yourself? We bring from a מאמר of the אלטער רבי to shed light on this crucial topic. The רבי then continues to explain what חינוך is and its connection to מסירות נפש.
54
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-6)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-6)
Feb 16, 2024
39:22
Continuing in the מאמר, the רבי shows us how this power of כתית למאור and consistently fulfilling Hashem's Will is rooted in our connection to the משה רבינו within every generation and within ourselves. It is this staunch commitment to תורה and מצות with מסירות נפש that enables us to bring out a deeper connection to the תורה than by מתן תורה itself!
55
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 4/4 (Seif 7-8)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5738 part 4/4 (Seif 7-8)
Feb 23, 2024
46:58
Finishing the מאמר, the רבי connects our discussion with a פסוק in פרשת כי תשא, where משה asks Hashem for "חן". We end up with a deep appreciation for the value of our עבודה, and how it accomplishes more than what was originally set up within the process of the world.
56
Lehavin Inyan Ksivas Sefer Torah 5730
Lehavin Inyan Ksivas Sefer Torah 5730
Mar 1, 2024
58:08
In honor of the סיום ספר תורה taking place in Congregation Ohel Nosson in Crown Heights, we learn the historical מאמר that the רבי said on ט שבט in the year 5730 (1970) in honor of the סיום of the special ספר תורה began by the פריערדיקער רבי in 5702 (1942) with which to greet משיח. After a brief overview of the history of the ספר תורה and the מאמר, we begin the מאמר inside, but discuss most of the מאמר outside. What is the significance of writing a ספר תורה? Why were the first ספרי תורה written specifically through משה רבינו? What is the connection of a ספר תורה and משיח? Find out all that and more in this special שיעור!
57
Venacha Alav Ruach Hashem 5725 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-2)
Venacha Alav Ruach Hashem 5725 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-2)
Mar 31, 2024
54:30
As we begin this מאמר for אחרון של פסח, we delve into משיח's positions as a teacher and as a king, and how it pertains to our preparatory עבודה now in גלות by expressing our מדה of נצחון; steadfast commitment to תורה and מצות in a logic-defying manner.
58
Venacha Alav Ruach Hashem 5725 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Venacha Alav Ruach Hashem 5725 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Apr 9, 2024
59:43
Continuing with our explanation of נצח, we understand how it endures the darkest concealments of גלות, as well as why it is the necessary preparation for the experiences of משיח being a מלך. We then begin a thorough treatment of the צמצום, understanding the effect of the צמצום on the אור הבלי גבול, as well as on the אור הגבול.
59
Venacha Alav Ruach Hashem 5725 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-10)
Venacha Alav Ruach Hashem 5725 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-10)
Apr 14, 2024
60:00
As we conclude the מאמר, the רבי uncovers a fundamental חידוש in the way we view the צמצום: Not only is it for the eventual purpose of a גילוי, our עבודה is to uncover how the entire צמצום itself is for the exact purpose of being uncovered and for us humans to experience Hashem within it! By living this two-tiered עבודה of staunch commitment (נצח) to serving Hashem notwithstanding the צמצום, as well as appreciating (השגה) how the צמצום itself is here for us to experience Hashem within it, we prepare for the two-tiered גילוי of משיח being both a מלך and a רב!
60
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 1/4 (Se'if 1)
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 1/4 (Se'if 1)
May 7, 2024
33:39
As we begin this מאמר to understand the greatness of רשב"י, we delve into a thorough discussion of the topic of praising Hashem in Davening: Why do we need to praise Hashem? Is it for us, or for Hashem?
61
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 2/4 (Se'if 2-3)
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 2/4 (Se'if 2-3)
May 12, 2024
52:35
What made רשב"י incomparably greater than all the other תנאים? Through delving into the difference within תורה between נגלה - the revealed sections - and נסתר - the hidden sections - we appreciate the unique quality of רשב"י.
62
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 3/4 (Se'if 4-5)
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 3/4 (Se'if 4-5)
May 24, 2024
52:16
Continuing in the מאמר, we take this conversation to the next level: Why does Hashem care about our מצות? The רבי's חידוש in the answer gives us an appreciation for the value in our עבודה. With this new perspective, we uncover not only how the other תנאים could connect to רשב"י, but why רשב"י would want to connect to them as well!
63
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 4/4 (Se'if 6-7)
Lehavin Inyan Rashbi 5745 part 4/4 (Se'if 6-7)
May 27, 2024
30:00
Finishing the מאמר, the רבי demonstrates how the explanation of why the תנאים praised רשב"י is hinted in how they praised him as well - "שבת" and "פני האדון ה": These are incomparably great levels, yet they connect to - and need to connect to - the lowest of levels. This is the idea of ספירת העומר and ל"ג בעומר as well, emphasizing the connection of this holy day to this holy, G-dly person, רשב"י.
64
Anochi Havayah Elokecha 5749 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-3)
Anochi Havayah Elokecha 5749 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-3)
Jun 6, 2024
50:19
What is the most powerful way how Hashem could have introduced Himself in the עשרת הדברות? Seemingly with "I am Hashem who created heavens and earth!" Yet, Hashem says, "I am Hashem who took you out of מצרים!" Why does Hashem feel that this accomplishment is more important for the אידן to know as they get the תורה? Because, the רבי answers, the entire creation and the entire תורה is here for a איד to have the strength to break free from his limitations - his מצרים! This is what we are celebrating every year anew as we head to מתן תורה on שבועות.
65
Anochi Havayah Elokecha 5749 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-7)
Anochi Havayah Elokecha 5749 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-7)
Jun 9, 2024
42:08
Applying the concept of Hashem's Essential and consistent bond with the world, and the איד's ability and responsibility to learn תורה with that mindset, the רבי finishes the מאמר with practical lessons and instructions on how to enter the יום טוב of מתן תורה, applying this perspective. Don't just go through "another" שבועות! Tap into the renewed energy of עצמות, express it in your learning, and through that in the whole world!
66
Zeh Hayom Asah Hashem 5738 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-6)
Zeh Hayom Asah Hashem 5738 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-6)
Jun 27, 2024
52:12
In this מאמר, the רבי explores the interplay between miracles and nature. The word "נס" means "elevation", meaning that the main point of a miracle is not to remain aloof from nature, but to elevate it. By categorizing three levels of miracles and their respective effects on nature, we appreciate the different ways that שם הוי-ה is revealed within our world.
67
Zeh Hayom Asah Hashem 5738 part 2/2 (Se'if 7-10)
Zeh Hayom Asah Hashem 5738 part 2/2 (Se'if 7-10)
Jun 30, 2024
39:28
With this understanding of "the nature of miracles", the רבי answers the questions on the מדרש from the beginning of the מאמר: There are indeed two perspectives on what to focus on in miracles, and שלמה is teaching us to focus on the source of these two perspectives - עצמות - and to express this connection to עצמות within our world. How is that done? Through תורה. Hence the three steps in the מדרש of "יראה, תורה, ישועה"!
68
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-2)
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-2)
Sep 13, 2024
39:12
Welcome back to yar #3 of the מאמרים, and it is אלול! We explore the interesting development of the אלטער רבי's משל of המלך בשדה as it was revolutionized by the פריערדיקער רבי in 5700 (1940), thus gaining an appreciation of the אהבה expressed during אלול. So, what are the feelings of יראה for?
69
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-4)
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 2/4 (Se'if 3-4)
Sep 15, 2024
45:23
What is the עבודה of אלול? How can one develop feelings of יראה toward Hashem? In this שיעור, we delve into the differences of יראה תתאה and יראה עילאה, understanding how אלול prepares us for ראש השנה.
70
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-7)
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-7)
Sep 22, 2024
47:17
Completing the process of advancing from אלול and יראה תתאה to ראש השנה and יראה עילאה, we bring in the discussion of אהבה and explain its importance. This brings us to the רבי's חידוש in this מאמר, explaining how the יראה תתאה of אלול is greater than the יראה עילאה of ראש השנה! With this, we answer the question on the מאמר of the צמח צדק from the beginning of our מאמר.
71
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 4/4 (Se'if 8-10)
Ani Ledodi 5732 part 4/4 (Se'if 8-10)
Sep 30, 2024
35:23
Finishing the מאמר, the רבי explains the "greatness of the lower level" theme as it pertains to the תשובה of אלול vs. the תשובה of ראש השנה. Using the idea of the core עצמות connection of the אידן with Hashem expressed in a non-מצוה, the רבי answers the original question of the מאמר how the "ודודי לי" of תשרי is really a part of the "אני לדודי" of אלול.
72
Hamelech Basadeh (Special Shiur)
Hamelech Basadeh (Special Shiur)
Oct 1, 2024
48:36
In this special שיעור, given in Congregation Tzeirei Anash of Crown Heights, we explore the אלטער רבי's well-known משל of המלך בשדה. Join us as we travel through the historical development of this משל, and appreciate the nuances of the אלטער רבי's words, as analyzed and revolutionized by our רבי.
73
Shir Hama'alos Mima'amakim 5748
Shir Hama'alos Mima'amakim 5748
Oct 7, 2024
35:44
In this 1-week מאמר, we learn how the רבי uncovers the depth(s) of תשובה: Through uncovering one's inner Essence and discovering a new way of living life one reaches the very Essence of all existence.
74
Lehavin Inyan Simchas Torah 5738
Lehavin Inyan Simchas Torah 5738
Oct 15, 2024
54:21
In this historic מאמר, said two days after the heart attack of שמיני עצרת in 5738 (1977), the רבי explains the core power of שמחת תורה, specifically as it follows the theme of יום כיפור and all of תשרי: less of celebrating the intellectual elements of תורה learning, and more of celebrating the oneness of אידן as they supersede סדר השתלתשות. In the beginning of the שיעור, we talk about the fascinating lesson we can take from this מאמר and that year's שמיני עצרת to help us rejoice on שמיני עצרת following the horrific attacks of שמיני עצרת תשפ"ד/October 07 2023.
75
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5741 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5741 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-3)
Nov 3, 2024
41:28
In this מאמר - the רבי's fundamental מאמר on joy - we begin by introducing שרה אמנו's unique quality of being able to elevate this world without being effected by it. Being our matriarch, her life empowers ours. In what way? We begin exploring joy, and why it is crucial. How could joy come with - and from - humility. Stay tuned...
76
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5741 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-6)
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5741 part 2/3 (Se'if 4-6)
Nov 10, 2024
47:41
How do joy and humility work together? Well, what is humility? Only through getting unstuck from one's own self can one experience - yes, experience! - true joy. That was the uniqueness of שרה's life, and with that she fixed the problem of experienced joy that חוה and נח got stuck in.
77
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5741 part 3/3 (Se'if 7-11)
Vayihyu Chayei Sarah 5741 part 3/3 (Se'if 7-11)
Nov 20, 2024
45:02
Finishing the מאמר, we use the new understanding of שמחה and ביטול to understand the זהר on the פסוק of שרה's life: The reason why שרה was able to own her life was because she was an embodiment of true שמחה as it comes from ביטול. This is the lesson - and the empowerment! - to us all: Through ביטול, we can express our joy, we can feel our joy, and we can enjoy our joy, always connected to Hashem!
78
Vayomer Lo Yehonasan 5745 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-5)
Vayomer Lo Yehonasan 5745 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-5)
Nov 25, 2024
51:09
In this מאמר, the רבי explores the foundation of the relationship between a משפיע and a מקבל, uncovering that in addition to the ביטול of ראש חודש - the מקבל receiving from the משפיע, there is also the "ויאמר לו יהונתן מחר חודש" - the מקבל becoming a מקבל from the משפיע.
79
Vayomer Lo Yehonasan 5745 part 2/2 (Se'if 6-9)
Vayomer Lo Yehonasan 5745 part 2/2 (Se'if 6-9)
Dec 2, 2024
47:30
The רבי uncovers a third way of understanding the (ביטול) relationship between משפיע and מקבל, wherein the מקבל becomes greater than the משפיע. With us and Hashem as well, this level brings out the core of our relationship, wherein אידן are one with Hashem! With this understanding, we answer the question from the beginning of the מאמר, and we now appreciate how our עבודה of ביטול can connect us with the highest levels of Hashem.
80
Omar Rabbi Oshaya 5739 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-4)
Omar Rabbi Oshaya 5739 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-4)
Dec 10, 2024
52:44
Our dispersion in גלות, both physical and spiritual, is analyzed in this מאמר (based on the statement of רבי אושעיא in the גמרא) to be an act of צדקה by Hashem. How? To understand that, we delve into the spiritual significance of "ירושלים", and as the פריערדיקער רבי explains it to be the core יראה that every איד has to Hashem.
81
Omar Rabbi Oshaya 5739 part 2/2 (Se'if 5-9)
Omar Rabbi Oshaya 5739 part 2/2 (Se'if 5-9)
Dec 20, 2024
48:40
The רבי shows two ways how the abstract נקודה of יראת שמים becomes the fuel for the specific actions throughout our day. Through revealing our יראת שמים in the separate actions, we uncover a deeper essence of our נשמה, and this is the answer to the question we had on the פזר-פרז word play. The connection that every איד has with a fellow איד comes from this deep level as well.
82
Ve'al Hanissim 5729
Ve'al Hanissim 5729
Dec 25, 2024
1:00:47
The רבי explains the fundamental war between the Greeks and the Jews in the חנוכה story: While the Greeks appreciated rational religion, and even a rational commitment to the superrational, the Jews fought for their staunch commitment to Hashem's תורה and מצות stemming from a place of His רצון. While we indeed fulfill מצות with געשמאק (like משפטים), it comes from a place of irrational commitment (like חוקים). This is connected to the "horn" that the Greeks wanted to turn the Jews into, but specifically with the power of the "horn" (עצם) did the Jews stubbornly fight back. Happy Chanukah!
83
Vayechi Yaakov 5747
Vayechi Yaakov 5747
Jan 6, 2025
50:21
How could it be that the apex of יעקב's life was specifically the 17 years he lived in מצרים?! Hashem's Desire is to have a home in the spiritually lowest of places. Globally, that is מצרים. Psychologically, within every person, that is one's emotions. When יעקב refined מצרים, he had the ultimate completion of his life. When we refine our emotions, we reveal Hashem's Presence throughout the entirety of סדר השתלשלות. This is hinted in the פסוק's enumeration of יעקב's years, "Seven years, and forty and one hundred years".
84
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Feb 21, 2025
46:18
As we begin this מאמר for פורים, the רבי analyzes the פריערדיקער רבי's historic מאמר explaining the power of the אידן in the time of המן's decree over the אידן in the time of מתן תורה. In two words, the answer is מסירות נפש. What is so special about מסירות נפש? Stay tuned...
85
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 2/4 (Se'if 4-5)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 2/4 (Se'if 4-5)
Feb 23, 2025
49:17
The רבי explains the three elements within the accomplishment of מתן תורה: 1) This physical world ("תחתון"), 2) the spiritual energy descending into the world ("עליון"), and 3) the infinite G-dly energy that allows for this integration of עליון and תחתון to take place. The רבי then proceeds to display these three elements within מצות - both on the practical level of fulfillment of מצות, as well as on the philosophical level of the essence of מצות.
86
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 3/4 (Se'if 6-9)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 3/4 (Se'if 6-9)
Mar 4, 2025
50:20
Continuing in the discussion of the three components of מתן תורה (the עליון, the תחתון, and the בלי גבול that connects the two opposites), the רבי now shows these ideas within תורה learning and within תורה itself. What emerges from this discussion is that the ultimate בלי גבול power of תורה is expressed when a איד learns תורה לשמה, and that was the accomplishment of מתן תורה! What does this have to do with פורים? Stay tuned for the end of the מאמר...
87
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 4/4 (Se'if 10-12)
Vekibel Hayehudim 5711 part 4/4 (Se'if 10-12)
Mar 11, 2025
48:56
Finishing the מאמר, the רבי shows how פורים is all about the infinite אור reaching and transforming the תחתון. Answering the questions from the beginning of the מאמר, this is the reason for the emphasis on the גוף's מסירות נפש, as is highlighted in the פורים story, and this is the beautiful connection to מרדכי teaching the children. This פורים, appreciate the גשמיות - and transform it!
88
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-3)
Mar 16, 2025
51:10
What is the wisdom behind the wise son's question? Why does he seem to exclude himself from the performance of the מצות? The wise son is troubled by the importance given to the simple action of מצות. Unlike the deep spirituality of Judaism before מתן תורה, he wonders, what can be so powerful about mere deeds?! What does this have to do with עדות חוקים and משפטים? Why in that order? So many questions... Stay tuned...
89
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 2/4 (Se'if 4)
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 2/4 (Se'if 4)
Mar 24, 2025
53:35
The three categories of משפטים, עדות and חוקים are reexamined as three elements within every מצוה: A מצוה expresses Hashem's Presence within this world. Understanding the difference between ממלא, סובב and עצמות uncovers how specifically through עדות do we draw down Hashem's עצמות; that which is otherwise inherently inaccessible.
90
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-6)
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 3/4 (Se'if 5-6)
Apr 4, 2025
49:17
To further understand the quality of the עדות component within every מצוה, the רבי contrasts it with the חוקים element: Although חוקים - engravement - signifies כתר, Hashem's Desire on such a level is to negate human logic, and thus cannot be a representation of his Essential Desire. Specifically עדות represent the core connection of the essence of a איד with the Essence of Hashem.
91
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 4/4 (Se'if 7-11)
Ki Yisholcho Bincho 5738 part 4/4 (Se'if 7-11)
Apr 8, 2025
56:50
Wrapping up the מאמר, we now understand the three-step process of how מצות bring Hashem's Presence into this world, in the order of עדות, חוקים, משפטים: Through עדות we connect to Hashem's עצמות, and through חוקים and משפטים, this connection is brought out in a tangible way. The חכם wants to know how this happens through the dry actions of מצות, and the answer is that this was the power of מתן תורה. To access this power, one needs to transcend the limitations of one's ego - חוקים.
92
Shir Hama'alos Hinei Ma Tov 5722 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-2)
Shir Hama'alos Hinei Ma Tov 5722 part 1/3 (Se'if 1-2)
Apr 30, 2025
41:12
Beginning a מאמר for ל"ג בעומר, the רבי connects the dots between the אחדות of אידן with each other and their אחדות with Hashem (as well as how it manifests itself in a חתן and כלה). We set out to understand how רשב"י made it rain simply through תורה; without the need of the effort that is usually needed through תפילה.
93
Shir Hama'alos Hinei Ma Tov 5722 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
Shir Hama'alos Hinei Ma Tov 5722 part 2/3 (Se'if 3-4)
May 9, 2025
37:10
Continuing in the מאמר, we explore the difference between the effect on the world through davening vs. through a ברכה. Based on that, it seems that תורה learning contains both qualities, and this is seemingly the explanation of the miracles brought about by תלמידי חכמים through their power of תורה. In that case, what makes רשב"י's story of rain unique? Stay tuned...
94
Shir Hama'alos Hinei Ma Tov 5722 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
Shir Hama'alos Hinei Ma Tov 5722 part 3/3 (Se'if 5-8)
May 14, 2025
51:58
Finishing the מאמר, we uncover the unique quality of רשב"י's תורה, and how it was able to make the world compatible to the miracle he affected. In one word? חסידות! We also see how אחדות ישראל is an integral part of feeling the אחדות between Hashem and אידן.
95
Roni Vesimchi Bas Tzion 5727 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-3)
Roni Vesimchi Bas Tzion 5727 part 1/2 (Se'if 1-3)
May 18, 2025
42:18
In this מאמר, said on the שבת following the miraculous victory of the six-day war, the רבי quotes the מדרש that uncovers our three-dimensional relationship with Hashem: "Daughter" - מצות, "Sister" - תורה, and "Mother" - מסירות נפש. Although it would seem that מסירות נפש is the highest form of relationship, the רבי explains the quality that exists in the daughter form of fulfilling מצות and the ביטול therein. How is מסירות נפש not enough of a ביטול?! Stay tuned...
96
Roni Vesimchi Bas Tzion 5727 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-6)
Roni Vesimchi Bas Tzion 5727 part 2/2 (Se'if 4-6)
Jun 1, 2025
51:33
Uncovering a depth in ביטול, the רבי shows how fulfilling a מצוה brings out a connection to Hashem even stronger than מסירות נפש! This explains why coming from the נעשה ונשמע euphoria of שבועות, the הפטורה of בהעלותך is רני ושמחי בת ציון, emphasizing the quality of the daughter-like commitment of fulfilling מצות.
97
Havaya Li Be'ozroi 5717 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-4)
Havaya Li Be'ozroi 5717 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-4)
Jun 9, 2025
47:45
Celebrating 30 years of the חג הגאולה, the רבי quotes two questions from the פריערדיקער רבי's מאמר, said on the day he was released, י"ב תמוז תרפ"ז: How can we say that there are helpers other than Hashem, and why would דוד המלך seek revenge from his enemies?! The רבי then analyzes the פסוק that refers to חוקים as "זמירות", beginning a discussion about the חוקים element within מצות - the submission to Hashem's Desire that supersedes reasoning.
98
The Gift of Atzmus (Special Shiur)
The Gift of Atzmus (Special Shiur)
Jun 29, 2025
39:14
In this special Gimmel Tammuz שיעור, we explore עצמות through the lens of the רבי's תורה. How do we get over the 'ghost' of זלמן משה and appreciate the רבי placing עצמות front and center? What is the central quality of עצמות? What does עצמות look like in our lives? How do we access עצמות? Is חסידות self-help? (Delivered in Crown Heights on ג' תמוז תשפ"ה as part of a day of learning the רבי's תורה, organized by Karnei Ohr.)
99
Havaya Li Be'ozroi 5717 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-4)
Havaya Li Be'ozroi 5717 part 1/4 (Se'if 1-4)
Jul 6, 2025
47:45
Celebrating 30 years of the חג הגאולה, the רבי quotes two questions from the פריערדיקער רבי's מאמר, said on the day he was released, י"ב תמוז תרפ"ז: How can we say that there are helpers other than Hashem, and why would דוד המלך seek revenge from his enemies?! The רבי then analyzes the פסוק that refers to חוקים as "זמירות", beginning a discussion about the חוקים element within מצות - the submission to Hashem's Desire that surpasses reasoning.
100
Havaya Li Be'ozroi 5717 part 2/4 (Se'if 5-7)
Havaya Li Be'ozroi 5717 part 2/4 (Se'if 5-7)
Jul 6, 2025
50:05
Understanding the difference between חוקים and משפטים (as they exist within every מצוה), we appreciate why דוד's praise of תורה in that it is greater than the world (זמירות) is emphasized specifically within חוקיך: Specifically by חוקים do we see how the details of the מצות - how they energize the world - are insignificant, and a מצוה is instead purely about Hashem's רצון. To further highlight this quality of חוקים, we bring עדות into the discussion: עדות is the quality of a מצוה in that it brings down and expresses the עצמות of Hashem - what is otherwise inherently concealed - in the world. How is this different than חוקים? Stay tuned...