Jewish Customs & Conventions With Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

1

Dealing with Tragedy

Aug 21, 2022

33:22

Dealing with tragedy: LIVE Radio on 91.9 CHIN FM with Zelda Young!

2

I AM WOMAN

Jan 25, 2022

1:34:55

is a special presentation delivered to honour CHOF BAIS SHEVAT, the Yahrzeit-Hilula of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, Soulmate of the internationally revered Lubavitcher Rebbe of Righteous Memory. Backgrounder: In 1992, in the days following Yartzeit-Hilula of the Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe and leading up to the Rebbetzin’s fourth Yartzeit-Hilula, the Rebbe delivered a series of ground-breaking addresses on Female empowerment in the Torah Perspective. Rather than the typical modern-day accommodations and adjustments, they comprised an unapologetic presentation of eternal Yiddishkeit values. To summarize (at the risk of gross oversimplification) this is the Timeless Torah-True Take on Female Empowerment. The ideas are ground-breaking. Shattering glass ceilings with concepts that are at once copiously sourced, yet entirely novel. Its an insightful, and uplifting presentation that provide us a powerful and inspirational Torah viewpoint on Jewish Femininity and our Modern Era. Ultimately our Mesorah and Torah traditions are Eternal, if your seeing anything new it's because we’re simply going Back to the Future. Sounds intriguing, watch, listen, and see for yourself! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

3

BE LIKE TREES

Jan 18, 2022

1:48:14

We the Jewish People have been observing a Rosh Hashana for Trees – in the middle of the winter -- since arriving in the Israel more than 32 centuries ago and beginning to work the land. So, to be sure, Tu B'Shvat is clearly an ancient Torah tradition that's as old as Eretz Yisrael itself. Yet as Israel is better known today for High Tech Start-ups than Agriculture should it still occupy that much space on our National Hard Drive? To explain why we persist in marking this date, many invoke a Talmudic teaching on a verse in Deuteronomy (20;19) protecting trees from destruction in warfare. Our Sages saw it as (in effect) likening a human being to a tree. However, instead of clarifying our seemingly inexplicable obsession with this minor anniversary, it only serves to exacerbate the question: Why indeed would the Torah Compare People to Trees?! This deeply insightful, and emotionally evocative presentation will offer a lucid overview of what this holiday is (and isn't) about, as it answers the questions and provides powerful lessons about life, and life-long learning. Here you will discover invaluable information on Tu B'shvat, as well as an effective strategy to identify truly ethical and inspirational spiritual leadership and guidance -- perhaps more relevant than ever in our confusing day and age! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

4

THE YUD SHEVAT ADDRESS - Why It Had To Be A Ma'amer

Jan 13, 2022

44:13

THE YUD SHEVAT ADDRESS: Why it had to be a Ma'amer. The ONLY Change we Can Believe In! The Central Yud Shevat Farbrengen 5782 Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

5

Rosh Chodesh Nissan

Mar 14, 2021

21:52

Rosh Chodesh Nissan. -’ . , . Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

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Attitude of Gratitude and Joy!

Feb 7, 2021

40:27

Pre-Shabbat Mivarchim Parshat Yitro - Mivarchim Chodesh Adar Sermon. !

7

The New Year for Trees in the Age of Corona

Jan 29, 2021

52:39

An Inspirational Presentation: “The New Year for Trees in the Age of Corona”

8

Reviewing Pixar’s SOUL

Jan 12, 2021

1:34:20

Presented in direct response to Disney's misguided depictions! A Deep Look at the Soul’s Personality and Purpose: Is there a cosmic foyer leading towards a white light e.g. a "Great Afterwards." How about "Great Before" with rules and procedures in which Souls have to discover a ‘spark’ to a happy and productive life down on earth and are there Souls really who can’t find their purpose?!

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Whats Ahead In The New Year Part II Of The Wondrous Discovery Of A 30 Year Old Prescient Note!

Sep 17, 2020

1:19:42

What’s Ahead in the New Year —Part II of the Wondrous Discovery of a 30 year old Prescient Note! Part Two illuminates the many details of this previously cryptic footnote that suddenly resonates with unprecedented optimism —unmasking the wonders in the sacred vision of the Rebbe!

10

Have The Events Of Next Year Already Been Predicted 30 Years Ago?!

Sep 16, 2020

1:02:07

An incredible note – written by the Rebbe nearly 30 years ago has come to light and it seems to uncannily predict the events of the upcoming new year of 5781! PART ONE

11

Revealing Secrets Of The Shema ~ Torat Rav Levi Yitzchak

Aug 12, 2020

57:22

Deciphering Judaism’s most Foundational Prayer as we Honour the Hilulah of Rav Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, the Rebbe's father, — a remarkably insightful and illuminating manuscript authored in the gulag that can change your view of the Shema forever!

12

Holiness & Healing III — Maimonidean Medieval Nutrition as a Torah Truth?

Aug 5, 2020

1:53:52

Holiness & Healing III Maimonidean Medieval Nutrition as a Torah Truth? Eternal Halacha vs. Dated Wellness Advice? Understanding the Rambam’s inclusion of Hippocratic Medicine in Halacha!

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Holiness & Healing II Dated Medicine Vs Eternal Mitzvot, Rabbinic Remedies & Lasting Relevance

Jul 29, 2020

1:28:03

Holiness & Healing Part 2 Dated Medicine vs Eternal Mitzvot, Rabbinic Remedies & Lasting Relevance Crises of Faith? squaring seemingly non-relevant Talmudic Medical Advice with the notion of Torah’s eternity and lasting meaning! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

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Holiness & Healing - Part 1 Rabbis Remedies And Relevance

Jul 22, 2020

1:25:45

Holiness & Healing - Part 1 Rabbis’ Remedies and Relevance Talmudic Medicines and Modernity; Can sacred, yet ancient medical advice still be meaningful in today’s day and age?!

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Hope And Healing - Inspiration From The Teachings And Wisdom Of The Rambam

Jul 20, 2020

55:49

Hope And Healing - Inspiration From The Teachings And Wisdom Of The Rambam

16

Seeing The Big Picture

Jul 20, 2020

39:13

Seeing The Big Picture Discovering how each of us plays a critical role in putting G-d's global peace puzzle together.

17

Coping Strategies for our Challenging Times!

Mar 23, 2020

33:55

Coping Strategies for our Challenging Times!

18

Half Dollar Relationship Advice!

Feb 19, 2020

1:13:36

Making Good Better Revealing layers of Torah truth and Kabbalah secrets that will ignite your imagination, and open your eyes to amazing new vistas! ! — ? The original Half-Shekel contribution is presented as a relationship repair medium with G-d (famously framed in terms of a cosmic marriage), which was weakened by the tragic (adulterously defined) Golden Calf debacle. This annual event is thusly portrayed as an annual envelope to nurture continued connection; shedding light on the hallmark of healthy marriages. Yet, although gift-giving is a logical commonly employed remedial strategy, the unusual limitations imposed seem entirely out of place. Ensuing Kabbalah-based elucidation of the subject also reveals secret recipes to marriage enhancement and realization of Shalom in the home!

19

Tu B’Shvat Holiday Highlights - Lessons from a Tree?

Feb 10, 2020

25:35

Vegetative Virtue: Torah states that a human being is like a tree. The Talmud ask how this is possible. Its intriguing answer is a springboard for growth and development!

20

Shabbat’s Signature Dish — Hot Cholent!

Jul 24, 2019

52:51

Jewish Custom & Convention! Learning the How and Why of our Cherished Traditions Shabbat’s Signature Dish Hot Cholent! Current Time 0:02 / Duration 52:48 1x Why We Eat Hot Cholent on Shabbat 0 Autoplay Why We Eat Hot Cholent on Shabbat Hands down, it’s the long-simmering stew of Shabbat morning that is its signature staple. A surprisingly strong statement from a 12 century luminary – incorporated into the menu of the Shulchan Aruch, Judaism’s proverbial “Set Table” of Torah Law – gives us a taste of just how important serving and eating this traditional delicacy really is! Another medieval manuscript thickens the consistency of its mysterious prominence, as numerous other ideas further stir the pot. Finally, a bag of beans added to the mix, concludes this delightfully flavored offering!

21

Shabbat Foods — Kugel and Company!

Jul 17, 2019

50:14

Jewish Custom & Convention! Learning the How and Why of our Cherished Traditions Shabbat Foods - Kugel and Company! Beyond its ubiquitous presence at Shabbat tables in virtually every (Ashkenazic) community – there are numerous astounding statements attributed to outstanding Chassidic Masters attaching extraordinary prominence and importance to the proverbial Shabbat staple known as “Kugel.” Our voyage into the past to discover the origin and meaning, sails from an ancient harbor, unfolds dinner napkins and Talmudic recipes to link us back to the miraculous Manna of old – culminating with uniquely propitious properties associated with “Lokshin Kugel”!

22

Traditional Shabbat Food - Why the Chicken Noodle Soup?!

Jun 26, 2019

40:50

Custom and Conventions: Second Course Traditional Shabbat Food- Why the Chicken Noodle Soup?!

23

Gefilte Fish Shmaltz Herring and the Shabbat Table

Jun 19, 2019

1:10:53

Jewish Custom & Convention First Course: “Why Gefilte Fish?” There are copious Talmudic references to fish on the Shabbat menu, yet, despite its apparent deep history something seems fishy as it virtually disappears from Torah literature for over 1000 years – only to reappear with regularity in Halachik codes and Responsa of the late modern period! A fascinating thesis is introduced to solve this seeming mystery, prominently placing kosher seafood on the Shabbat table. Rhyme and reason for the development of European “Gefilte” and its cousin “Schmaltz” are richly introduced and garnished with tantalizing insight and clarity!

24

The Torah Reading of HaChodesh (Ritual Renewal)

Apr 3, 2019

57:47

Custom and Convention! "Parshat HaChodesh!" The fourth and final seasonal Torah Reading highlights our first foundational and recurring, national ritual endeavor – the proverbial Paschal Offering. Yet, as a voice from Jerusalem suggests, there seems to be more than roasted lamb on the menu. This lecture presents a smorgasbord of sources, peppered with nuanced commentary and flavored with mystical insight that brings forth the rich flavor of this unique climatic reading and provides heaping inspirational “food for thought” with enough to satisfy heart, mind and soul!

25

The Parshat Para Purity Reading

Mar 27, 2019

45:00

Custom and Convention: The Parshat Para Purity Reading (Red Heifer Purity) Following Purim, comes the third seasonal Torah Reading – this time focused on ritual purification for the severest level of impurity engendered by contact with death. Heralding the requisite preparation for the key Paschal Offering, the rhyme and reason for this annual public reading is easily understood. However, multiple early sources indicate it to be biblically mandated – a notion difficult to understand. Copious sources, detailed analysis, and deep spiritual insight provide rationale as to why this unique tradition might hail from the Torah itself!

26

Parshat Zachor

Mar 13, 2019

49:46

Custom and Convention! () There’s lots of hoopla attached to the Shabbat prior to Purim, as it's host to a special Torah reading said to be biblically mandated. Yet, it's common knowledge that public Torah readings are rabbinically ordained – so how could it possibly be an actual biblical mitzvah? After documenting the earliest sources for this idea; we go on to establish its legal definition and jurisprudence, attaining a better understanding of its unique rhyme and reason. This class provides an understanding of its underlying purpose as an annual reading that is supposed to influence our psyche all year long! Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

27

Parshat Shekalim

Feb 27, 2019

45:39

Custom and Convention! "Parshat Shekalim" The introduction of a well-documented, but little-known new beginning on the Jewish calendar serves to place this unique Torah Reading in its proper context. Once establishing its origins in the Temple eras of antiquity, we move on to analyse its function in our post-Temple reality. Competing philosophies and jurisprudence are framed by practical differences. We conclude with a mystical and spiritual elucidation of deeper messages and the inspirational motifs being conveyed.

28

Volumes of Goodness

Dec 12, 2018

1:27:32

“Volumes of Goodness” Fascinating facts, remarkable rules and enduring etiquette relating to handling sacred manuscripts and books. Can they influence you even if you don’t read them? Is possession alone meaningful?

29

Judaism’s Pathway towards a Better World - The Seven Universal Laws

Nov 15, 2018

1:14:11

Judaism’s ✡️ Pathway towards a Better World The Seven Universal Laws with a group of Ontarian Catholic High Schoolers

30

Aftermath: Finding Comfort after Pittsburgh — a Torah Perspective

Oct 31, 2018

1:20:35

Aftermath: Finding Comfort after — a Torah perspective on faith in the face of suffering. On Shabbat, the 18th of the Jewish month of Mar-Cheshvon (October 27, 2018) we witnessed the deadliest massacre of Jews ever on North American soil in which 11 of our brothers and sisters were brutally cut down for no other reason than being Jewish, cold-bloodily murdered as they gathered together in prayer. Understandably, many are feeling frightened, vulnerable or even angry. Inevitably, when struck by such tragedy, we may hear a inner voice saying: “where is G-d,” or “how could a loving G-d abandon us and allow this to happen?” Our sacred Torah teachings offer wide-ranging insights in this area. Please join me to discover a Torah-true view about G-d’s response to human suffering and tragedy, as well as what our response should be in gut wrenching moments like these. This lecture is dedicated in memory of those who lost their lives in the horrific Pittsburgh shooting, and for the full and speedy recovery for those injured in the attack. May we know no more sorrow and tragedy, and may Hashem comfort, shield and protect His children from all harm - in Israel and wherever our brethren may be.

31

Black Boxes II

Aug 1, 2018

1:21:50

"Black Boxes II" The quest for a full appreciation of a specific comment of Rashi, once again serve as a segue into a much broader understanding of foundational Torah concepts like the meaning of Mitzvot, the Land of Israel and the nature of personal religious duties . We are introduced to a Talmudic statement about the importance of Tefillin that seems vastly exaggerated. Varying explanations are capped with an amazing mystical manuscript that remarkably clarifies the “Head-Tefillin Effect”, transformationally illuminating the spiritual achievement of putting on Tefillin – even if it just once-in-a-lifetime! (Part Two of Three)

32

Black Boxes

Jul 25, 2018

1:16:50

“Black Boxes” Analysis of Rashi’s (seemingly superfluous) elucidation of the verse on Tefillin, quickly leads into broader exploration presenting a profound understanding of this foundational mitzvah. Discover defining differences between the hand and head set; and a fascinating duality of dimensions encoded into it. Revealing eye-opening legal, philosophical and mystical insights, this rumination will forever change the way you view the mitzvah of Tefillin! (Part One of Three)

33

Know Your Noah

Apr 11, 2018

1:31:55

The Seven Step Plan for World Peace: An overview of the proverbial Seven Noahide Laws A how-to presentation on effectively communicating the 7 Noahide Laws with profound clarity; illuminating foundational principles of Torah Judaism with wisdom, understanding and knowledge. Learn how you can become an inspiration; fulfilling our age-old sacred calling of being a “light onto the nations” and doing your part to catalyze world peace. What Are the Seven Noahide Laws? https://www.chabad.org/library/article cdo/aid/62221/jewish/The-7-Noahide-Laws-Universal-Morality.htm

34

Birthday In Afterlife Class #3

Feb 21, 2018

1:01:47

“Birthday in Afterlife” (last episode of 3-part series) We’ve learned that both birthday observance and celebrations are Torah truisms. Now we explore if birthdates have meaning after our terrestrial passing onto our eternal rewards.

35

Are Birthday Parties Kosher? Class# 2

Feb 14, 2018

1:14:20

“Are Birthday Parties Kosher?” (Episode 2 in the 3 part series) Having established multiple Torah sources regarding the significance and potency of one’s birthday, we now move on to look at parties and formal celebrations. Is there an authentic Jewish tradition for such get-togethers, and is the anniversary of birth a cause for joy or sobriety? This frank and honest rumination attempts to present a clear picture of the historic reality, and the rationale the Rebbe shared with us in explaining his calling to observe and celebrate the date of our terrestrial birth!

36

Are Birthday Celebrations Kosher? Class# 1

Feb 7, 2018

1:22:31

Observing Birthdays: A Torah Tradition or Pagan Aberration? (Episode 1 in the 3 part series) This in-depth excavation digs deeply into scripture and Talmudic teachings about the observance of birthdays by both royals and regulars alike. Should ancient associations of birthdays and idolatrous rites disqualify us from marking the anniversary of our terrestrial arrival, or did they actually appropriate Torah truisms. Drawing from a wide range of traditional sources, this class pulls no punches in demystifying the subject – stridently leading you to unmistakably clear conclusions about its Torah-true origins.

37

The Noahide Code with students of St Thomas Aquinas of Tottenham, Ontario

Dec 5, 2017

26:21

The Noahide Code with students of St Thomas Aquinas of Tottenham, Ontario.

38

The Torah’s Universal Code of Morality ~ Sheva Mivtzahs B’nai Noach!

Nov 21, 2017

33:58

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan speaks to students: The Torah’s Universal Code of Morality ~ Sheva Mivtzahs B’nai Noach!

39

Siyum HaRambam

Sep 26, 2017

47:38

An in depth analysis of the Rambam's unique contribution.

40

Jews and Food (Part Four)

Aug 15, 2017

1:30:05

The Kabbalah on Blood, Fat and Cheeseburgers!: Judaism’s Food Obsession, Part 4 This concluding class of the series sets out to further the fascinating thesis developed over the previous lectures. Here you'll find a compelling and inspiring explanation as to why and how matter from a perfectly kosher animal are in fact absolutely un-Kosher. This rumination draws on a wide range of classical early sources that, on the surface, do not seem to jibe with the Lurianic ideas of Tikkun Olam— however in the end everything is brilliantly reconciled as per a little-known and illuminating teaching of the Rebbe! Once the blood and guts fall into place, the thesis lends itself perfectly in explaining why and how kosher milk and meat too become totally toxic when fused together!

41

Day of Joy: What Is Tu B'Av Really All About?

Aug 7, 2017

39:09

According to a cryptic Talmudic passage, the 15th day of Menachem-Av is considered one of the happiest days in the year!

42

Igrot Kodesh: 3 Keys To Unlocking The Arizal's Legacy!

Jul 28, 2017

28:09

Join me for the inspirational study of an incredible letter penned by The Rebbe on occasion of the 400th anniversary (1972) of the Hilula - to discover "The Three Keys" to unlocking the Arizal’s lasting spiritual legacy!

43

Jews & Food (Part Three)

Jul 26, 2017

1:16:39

Jews & Food Part Three Sacred Consumption! From Passover’s Bread of Faith to Friday Night’s Kiddush Cup, some food and drink seem to somehow uniquely nourish our souls. But isn’t eating just a medium to rarefy the material reality, why would consuming food or drink in and of itself be an act of holiness?

44

Jews & Food (Part Two)

Jul 19, 2017

1:16:49

Kosher has defined Judaism for millennia - but is it still important? Kosher-style almost as good? Part two of four

45

Jews & Food (Part One)

Jul 5, 2017

1:21:15

“Judaism’s Food Obsession.” When did the obsession begin... what behind it?! Be amazed to discover why food plays such a central role in our sacred tradition and often defines our religious experiences. Part One of Three.

46

Seder of Fruit: What up with this Passover/Tu B'Shevat Mashup?

Feb 8, 2017

53:57

Seder of Fruit: What up with this Passover/Tu B'Shevat Mashup? by Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

47

Open Forum Q&A - Yiddishkeit Matters

Jan 24, 2017

1:06:35

Open Forum Q&A - Yiddishkeit Matters by Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

48

The Other Inauguration: Torah Perspectives on Leadership!

Jan 22, 2017

26:24

Just took a few minutes to share snippets of today's Shabbat Sermon on Chabad.org's official Facebook page. It's entitled "The Other Inauguration" in light of the much spoken of event held in Washington DC, Erev Shabbat... But it's not what you think it is! I think you'll find it informative and inspirational regardless of wherever you are on the political landscape... Let know what you think... and if you enjoy please share https://www.facebook.com/ChabadOrg/videos/10154875692965883/

49

Darkness from the "City of Lights" vs Light from our "Torah of Illumination"

Jan 15, 2017

15:50

Studying today's portion of Chumash I was struck by the incredibly obvious relevance to today's events as our enemies gathered in Paris to condemn us. The stunning concert of multiple messages linking it all together seemed to be a mighty beacon of light in dark night... Thought it was worthy of being shared - so did just that once again LIVE on Chabad.org's Facebook. Seems more than 1,500 viewers joined us from around the globe... Please If you find it illuminating or inspiring please share it with your friends too!

50

Sources of Strength as 70 Nations Plot in Paris...

Jan 15, 2017

25:49

Just went LIVE on Chabad.org's Facebook page to share some of the points made in today's Shabbat sermon about the challenges the people and land of Israel are facing tomorrow and in the next few days... Please take the time to watch, listen and share. These are fateful times, and HaShem will surely protect His children... yet the responsibility to mobilize in an urgent wave of spiritual renewal now falls to us! We must all intensify our prayers, enhance our Torah study and increase our Tzedakah-acts of living kindness!! The Guardian of Israel Neither Sleeps nor Slumbers... Now is the time to reach out to HaShem in love and loyalty of Yiddishkiet -- and the Best of Times will, bezrat HaShem hopefully, soon be upon us as we see merit to see the long-awaited coming of Moshiach, AMEN!!! https://www.facebook.com/ChabadOrg/videos/10154855651500883/

Jewish Customs & Conventions With Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

Jewish Customs & Conventions With Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

More by Rabbi Mendel Kaplan