Succot – The Grand Finale and New Beginnings!In this episode of Rabbi Heskiel's shiur, we explore the deep messages of Succot, the grand finale of the Shalosh Regalim, while also marking a new beginning in the Jewish year. Rabbi Heskiel delves into the ruchani (spiritual) lessons of Pesach, Shavuot, and Succot—explaining how the nissim (miracles) of Pesach, the giving of the Torah on Shavuot, and the focus on seeing the yad Hashem in everyday life during Succot strengthen our emunah. He unpacks the significance of dwelling in the sukkah, the rich symbolism of the Arba'at HaMinim (Four Species), and how true simcha comes from placing ruchaniyut above gashmiyut. Rabbi Heskiel also touches on how the messages of Succot and the reading of Kohelet guide us to find deeper meaning in simchat hachayim (joy in life).

In this episode, Rabbi Heskiel explores the themes of gratitude and appreciation during Succot. Drawing from the teachings of Rebbe Akiva, he discusses the significance of the succa and the Annane Kavod, emphasizing the importance of recognizing HASHEM's kindness in both grand and everyday blessings.Rabbi Heskiel shares insights from the Mishna on the Arba Minim (four species) and highlights the role of humility in our relationship with HASHEM, particularly during Hoshana Rabba. Through powerful anecdotes, including lessons from Rachel Imanu and the sacrifices of Kayin and Hebel, listeners will learn how cultivating gratitude can reshape our perspectives on life's challenges.Join us as we uncover the essential message of Succot: to embrace a mindset of thankfulness and connection within Klal Yisrael. This episode is a valuable reminder for all, inspiring deeper appreciation for the gifts we receive.

In this week's class on Parashat Vayigash, Rabbi Heskiel explores the profound lessons from Yehudah's confrontation with Yosef. We learn about the importance of communal responsibility and the need for self-reflection in times of distress. Rabbi Heskiel highlights how each member of Klal Yisrael is interconnected, emphasizing the call to support one another. Additionally, we discuss Jacob's deep love for Hashem and the significance of forgiveness, both in the context of Yosef and his brothers and the lessons we can apply in our own lives. Join us for insights on strengthening our relationships with one another and with Hashem. Shabbat Shalom!

In this class, Rabbi Heskiel explores the deeper meanings of Parashat Vayechi, focusing on its significance as a "closed" parasha, symbolizing the beginning of spiritual exile for Bnei Yisrael after the passing of Yaakov Avinu. Rabbi Heskiel delves into the dual aspects of slavery—spiritual and physical—emphasizing how the presence of Yaakov brought the Shechinah, and with his absence, the spiritual decline began. Through various teachings and stories, Rabbi Heskiel illustrates how living with integrity and embodying Torah values allows us to reflect Hashem in the world, even in times of challenge.

In this episode, Rabbi Heskiel delves into the foundational lessons from Parashat Vaera, highlighting how Hashem's plan for the redemption of Bnei Yisrael is built on emuna (faith). Rabbi Heskiel explores why Moshe was instructed to first speak to the people before confronting Pharaoh, emphasizing the critical role that faith plays in achieving redemption. The episode also addresses the deeper meaning behind the plagues and how they were designed to show Pharaoh and the Egyptians that Hashem is both the Creator and the One intimately involved in the world. Through these stories, we are reminded of Hashem's mercy, even when situations appear challenging. Tune in to discover how faith and Hashem's hidden kindness can guide us through the most difficult times. Shabbat Shalom!

In this episode, Rabbi Heskiel explores themes from Parashat Beha'alotcha, highlighting Aharon's feelings of exclusion during the inauguration of the Mishkan. He discusses the significance of the Menorah and its connection to Hanukkah, emphasizing the importance of service to Hashem and the eternal nature of mitzvot. The episode also delves into the consequences of Miriam's negative speech about Moshe and the broader implications of divine justice, showcasing the kindness inherent in Hashem's dealings with humanity. Rabbi Heskiel encourages listeners to reflect on the value of Torah and the historical significance of recent visits by gedolim to the U.S. for fundraising efforts. Shabbat Shalom!

In this episode, Rabbi Heskiel delves into the complex dynamics of Korach's rebellion against Moshe and Aharon. He explores the underlying motivations of jealousy that fueled Korach's argument, highlighting how personal ambition and the desire for honor can lead to destructive consequences. Rabbi Heskiel draws parallels between Korach's actions and historical instances of jealousy, emphasizing the importance of unity within the Jewish nation. He also discusses the critical role of spouses in influencing decisions, contrasting the destructive impact of Korach’s wife with the wisdom of Onn Ben Pelet’s wife. Through the lens of the Mishna, Rabbi Heskiel reminds us of the necessity for pure intentions in our actions and the importance of pursuing a path that aligns with Hashem's will. Join us for an insightful discussion that reinforces the foundation of love and community in our spiritual journey. Shabbat shalom!

**Podcast Episode: Perasha Hukat – Torah Commitment and Love for Our Fellow Jew**In this episode, Rabbi Heskiel explores Perasha Hukat and its deep lessons on Torah commitment and loving our fellow Jew. He reflects on the tragic 1244 burning of 24 wagons of holy sefarim in France, commemorated by a unique fast day observed before reading Perasha Hukat. Rabbi Heskiel reminds us how neglecting Torah can lead to its loss and shares a story of a young boy’s transformation through dedication to Torah study.Additionally, the mitzva of loving fellow Jews is emphasized through the lesson of Para Aduma, urging selflessness even at personal cost. As we approach the mourning period, Rabbi Heskiel calls on us to follow Aharon HaKohen’s example of fostering peace and unity in Klal Yisrael.Tune in for these timeless insights from Perasha Hukat.

This class, taught by Rabbi Heskiel, explores key lessons from Parashat Ekev. The Rabbi emphasizes the power of small mitzvot, explaining how being careful with even the simplest commandments brings great blessings. He also highlights the danger of thinking we know better than the Torah when it comes to laws like charging interest, and how true wisdom is trusting Hashem’s laws completely. Additionally, the Rabbi teaches the importance of blessing Hashem after receiving physical sustenance and the spiritual power of Torah blessings. Finally, he connects this to Elul, encouraging early preparation for a favorable judgment on Rosh Hashanah.

In this class Rabbi Heskiel , delves into the deeper lessons of Parashat Ki Teitzei. It explores themes of war, the value of life, and moral sensitivity, emphasizing how the Torah breaks up discussions of war with the mitzvah of Egla Arufa to remind us of the sanctity of life. The class also covers topics such as the dangers of the yetzer hara, the impact of improper intentions in Torah observance, the importance of guarding one's speech and avoiding lashon hara, and the essential need to distance from immorality to maintain closeness to Hashem during the month of Elul. The overall message stresses preparing for Rosh Hashana with sincerity and vigilance in these areas.

In this podcast segment, Rabbi Heskiel provides deep insights into the themes of Parashat Ki Tavo, emphasizing the mitzvah of Bikkurim (the first fruits). He explores how this mitzvah was commanded to Bnei Yisrael before they entered the land, explaining through the Malbim that accepting and committing to perform a mitzvah—even before it is possible—brings one merit, as if the mitzvah was already fulfilled. Rabbi Fishman ties this concept to the preparations for Rosh Hashana, urging listeners to commit to positive actions and mitzvot for the upcoming year to build merit, following the teachings of Rabbi Chatzkel Levenstein.The discussion then moves to the central theme of Hakarat HaTov (gratitude), as exemplified by the mitzvah of Bikkurim, where the farmer acknowledges Hashem's role in every step of the harvest. Rabbi Fishman draws a parallel between this mitzvah and our responsibility to express gratitude for all that Hashem provides, especially as we approach Rosh Hashana. He references the wisdom of Rabbi Avigdor Miller, who expressed happiness before Rosh Hashana because of his gratitude for the year that had passed.Finally, Rabbi Heskiel delves into the reading of the 98 curses (the Tochacha) before Rosh Hashana, explaining that this serves as a sobering reminder of the seriousness of Yom HaDin (the Day of Judgment). He emphasizes the importance of taking this time seriously, as Hashem judges us based on our intentions and the direction we are headed. The message is clear: the fear and awe of judgment, if internalized, can serve as a merit to enter Rosh Hashana in a favorable light.