Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast SoulWords- Full Library

Rabbi Shais Taub speaks to a caller who is unsure of how to properly observe Shemini Atzeres / Simchas Torah this year in light of the events of one year ago.

In honor of 13 Tishrei, Yahrzeit of the Rebbe Maharash, hear a story about how the Rebbe Maharash as a young man offered wise counsel to his father, the Tzemach Tzedek. The Rebbe analyzes the narrative highlighting the profound lessons we can all learn from it. (Based on Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 4, pp. 1361-1363)

Why aren't there two days of Yom Kippur? What makes Die Hard fun? What are the riddles of the rabbi of Baghdad? Brothers Shais and Dovid Taub discuss this and more on this latest edition of your favorite podcast.

Through teshuvah, even those far from holiness can reveal their inner connection to G‑d, elevating the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy. We study Chapters 7-8 and conclude the maamar.

In this part of the maamar, the Rebbe explains how the "king in the field" analogy does not depict an "arousal from Above" inasmuch as it only reveals that which the people had inside of them all along—namely, a desire to be close to the king. Furthermore, the response of the people causes an elevation in the king himself. We study Chapter 6 and the beginning of chapter 7.

The Rebbe gives a novel interpretation of the reason for the king's smile in the Alter Rebbe's famous parable of the King in the Field. Chapters 4 and 5.

The twenty-two letters are building blocks that through re-arrangements and substitutions, diminish the original power of the creative energy so that different creating beings can emerge. This diminishing effect may be likened to the sun's light reflected by the moon.

In this maamar, the Rebbe revisits the Alter Rebbe's famous maamar Ani L'Dodi which employs the metaphor of the king in the field to explain the uniqueness of Elul. We begin by contrasting Elul with the High Holidays, describing them as an arousal from below and an arousal from Above, respectively.

The Ten Utterances of creation are only rightly called such from the subjective perspective of the created beings.

In this class we conclude the maamar with the study of chapters 8 and 9. We learn how there are two levels of redemption that each of us must go through and how these correspond to the redemption in macrocosm through Moshiach.

Using the metaphor of the sun and its rays, we come to better understand the nature of Hashem's attributes in relation to His essence. Just as the sun’s rays are relatively non-existent when compared to the sun itself, so too are the Divine attributes one with Hashem's essence.

The possibility for forgetting Torah derives from a viewpoint that perceives a separation between transcendent and the immanent Divine energies. This is also the root of the debacle of the worship of the Golden Calf.

The Essence of G-d cannot be described by even the loftiest attributes, so why do we speak of Hashem as "wise" or "compassionate" etc? In this chapter, the Alter Rebbe gives us context for understanding the proper usage of these terms.

The unification of Sovev and Memaleh can also be understood as corresponding to the names Havaye and Elokim. This unification makes it possible to live within time and space but not prioritize the material world as an end unto itself. Chapters 4 and 5 of the maamar.

Having explained in chapters 1-7 how Hashem is the only true existence and that the worlds are not something "other" than Him, we now turn our attention to the oneness of Hashem in terms of Himself. Hashem is a simple oneness, not a composite of attributes.

How does the concept of Bitachon (trust in G-d) apply to earning a living? Rabbi Shais Taub speaks about the spiritual principles of financial success without distraction or worry.

Drawing on the mystical teachings of Chassidus and Kabbalah, Rabbi Shais Taub explores masculine and feminine paradigms in marriage and relationships. This enlightening talk offers practical insights and a clear understanding of gender dynamics rooted in Jewish spirituality which will bring clarity to those seeking to deepen their insights into male-female interactions.

This maamar of the Rebbe is based on a maamar of the Alter Rebbe in Likkutei Torah which describes how to instill in oneself the feeling that the Torah is truly new everyday. Chapters 1-3 of the maamar.

The second session of the all-day workshop on Judaism and recovery begins with a guided meditation on acceptance followed by a round of Q&A. This video is PART 2 of an intensive all-day workshop entitled "Practicing Acceptance in our Lives and in the Steps" which was conducted in London, UK on July 4, 2024.

We conclude Ch. 7 with a further explanation of Tzimztum and how it is possible for Hashem to fill all worlds while simultaneously not being limited by them.

For those interested in exploring 12-Step recovery from a Jewish spiritual perspective, Rabbi Shais Taub utilizes texts from the Big Book of AA and the 12 and 12 to discuss how Jews in recovery can integrate their faith tradition into their lives in a manner consistent with sustained recovery. This video is PART 1 of an intensive all-day workshop entitled "Practicing Acceptance in our Lives and in the Steps." These sessions were recorded during an intensive, all-day workshop in London, UK, on July 4, 2024.

In the final two chapters of the maamar, we learn that the level of selflessness achieved through our Torah study after the Giving of the Torah surpasses that of the Avos. Furthermore, through Torah study, we attain true freedom, embodying the concept of "personal redemption."

On the 28th day of Sivan in 5701 (1941), the Rebbe and the Rebbetzin arrived safely on American shores, marking not only a miraculous escape from war-torn Europe but also the beginning of a new era in history. This moment heralded a transformative bottom-up approach to self-improvement and global refinement, setting the stage for a profound shift in how we engage with spirituality and our collective mission to perfect the world.

In Chapter 7, we explore the concept that despite Hashem's transcendence, He is present within space and time through His attribute of Malchus. Additionally, we examine the Alter Rebbe's interpretation of the Lurianic concept of Tzimtzum, clarifying that it does not imply Hashem literally withdrew Himself to allow for finite creation, but rather concealed His light.

In chapters 7 and 8 of the maamar we continue to contrast the way that Torah was accessible to the Patriarchs and the way in which we are able to access it now after Matan Torah. In the words of the Midrash, before Matan Torah, the Torah was like the fragrance of the oil whereas after Matan Torah it is like the oil itself.

We begin Chapter 7 which introduces the idea of the Higher and Lower Unities (yichuda ilaah and yichuda tataah.) The first concept discussed is that it is Hashem's attribute of Malchus (corresponding to the Divine Name of A-D-N-I) that relates to the inherent limitations of time and space.

In chapters 5 and 6 of the maamar we learn about the way that the events of Matan Torah permanently changed reality and how this is reflected in three aspects: 1) the Giver of the Torah, 2) the recipients of the Torah, and 3) the Torah itself.

In chapter 6, we are finally able to understand the statement in the verse with which we began chapter 1. "Know today and take it upon your heart that Hashem is Elokim; there is no other." Because the Divine Names of Hashem and Elokim are really one, therefore, even the concealment that makes creation appear to exist independently is also G-d. As such, there is truly nothing but Him.

Chapter 5 is very short but very challenging. Based on the Rebbe's explanations, we try to unpack the basic message of the chapter which is to obviate misunderstandings regarding tzimtzum that may arise from Chapter 4.

Chapter four of the maamar explains the meaning of the four letters of Hashem's name and describes how they are expressed not only in the soul but in the body as well.

Chapter 4 answers the question that was asked at the end of the previous chapter. How it is that creation is not nullified out of existence before Hashem? The answer is that Hashem's restraining power allows His creative power to conceal itself in a way that created beings can retain a sense of independent selfhood.

This maamar was originally delivered by the Rebbe on the second day of Shavups 5729 (1969.) In this class, we cover the first three chapters of the maamar in which the Rebbe begins to analyze a maamar of the Rebbe Maharash of the same name that was delivered 100 years earlier. The central theme is the idea of Hashem's words at Sinai being directed to the individual.

Rabbi Shais Taub visits Avi Fishoff's support group for parents in crisis, to present the valuable life lessons he learned while winning the trust of a couple of frightened stray cats. He draws parallels between putting these cats at ease and similar behaviors in interpersonal relationships that convey safety and security especially to those experiencing emotional dysregulation due to trauma.

In Chapter 3, the Alter Rebbe illustrates how, based on what we have learned in chs 1-2, it is a logical conclusion that all of created reality is non-existent relative to the Divine energy that constantly brings it in to being,

Torah is the wisdom of Hashem while mitzvos are His will. This idea will help us to understand why there are various different levels of Torah study but when it comes to mitzvah observance all Jews are placed in the same category as those who have done mitzvos and therefore will merit resurrection. In this class, we complete the study of the maamar with Chapters 4 and 5.

Rabbi Shais Taub delivers the key note address at an evening dedicated to putting an end to shame and stigma connected to anxiety and depression. The event was organized by CATCH (Creating A Team of Courage and Hope). For more information about CATCH visit: https://www.catchsupport.org/

In Chapter 2 of Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah, the Alter Rebbe uses the mechanics of the miraculous Splitting of the Sea to give us a logical way of understanding why creation must be constant and continuous.

Reb Menachem Ze'ev "Volf" Greenglass (1917-2010) was a unique educator and role model who raised a generation of students in Lubavitch's yeshiva in Montreal. His only son-in-law, Rabbi Dovid Cohen, joins Rabbi Shais Taub in an interview discussing Rabbi Greenglass' life and teachings.

In the third chapter of the maamar Kol Yisrael we look at the relationship between the Torah and the Mitzvos as being akin to the relationship between the soul and the body. From the revealed perspective the Torah and the soul are loftier than the Mitzvos and the body. However, in their source, the relationship is exactly reversed and the Mitzvos are greater than the Torah (which is evidenced by the fact that the Torah explains the mitzvos) and the body is greater than the soul (as apparent from the fact that the soul is attracted to be drawn down into the body.)

Chapter 1 of Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah introduces the idea that all of created reality is composed of arrangements of the 22 letters of the Holy Tongue and that it is the Divine Speech that issues for these letters that causes all of creation to continue to exist rather than revert into nothingness.

Join Rabbi Shais Taub as he brings the mystical Ten Sefiros to life, straight from the core texts of Kabbalah and Chassidic philosophy. This session isn't just an overview—it's a deep dive into sacred writings like the introduction to Tikunei Zohar and Igeres HaKodesh, chapter 15. Rabbi Taub translates ancient wisdom into practical insights that resonate with our everyday lives. Discover how these fundamental Kabbalistic concepts can transform your understanding and spiritual practice.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe's discourse Kol Yisrael begins with the Mishnah that is recited before the study of Pirkei Avos stating: "All Israel has a portion in the world to come." In this lesson, covering chapters 1-2 of the maamar, we question why even those souls that reside in the highest levels of heaven will need to come back down to the physical world in order to experience resurrection after the coming of Moshiach.

We begin the second volume of Tanya known as The Gate of Unity and Faith (Shaar HaYichud Ve'HaEmunah) which explains the oneness and unity of Hashem. In this introduction, the Alter Rebbe explains why we need to understand this subject matter as it is the foundation to developing proper love and awe of Hashem.

Rabbi Shais Taub leads a guided meditation session at the Kansas City Recovery Retreat. The focus of the meditation is on the idea of G-d's complete "Everything-ness" and how we can surrender our separate egos to that reality to experience greater serenity and, most importantly, increase our usefulness to our Maker.

Co-founder of AA, Dr. Bob, once said that the entire 12-Step program could be summed up as: 1) Trust G-d, 2) Clean House, 3) Help Others. In that spirit, Rabbi Shais Taub presents a 1-hour overview of the 12 Steps of recovery structured into "three phases of freedom" corresponding to three months on the Jewish calendar as well as three phrases in the verse (Song of Songs 1:4) "Draw me, we will run after you; the king brought me to his chambers." This was delivered as the step workshop at the Kansas City Recovery Conference in 2024.

First we review last week's class and get into a very lively discussion of the importance of getting Jews to eat matzah on the night of Pesach. We then continue with the maamar and learn about how the matzah we eat possesses the advantages of various different spiritual levels all at once. Text-based study of the Rebbe's maamar Matzah Zo 5749. This class covers Chapters 3-4 of the maamar.

Join Rabbi Shais Taub and Dr. Jacob L. Freedman in a thought-provoking discussion on mental health, addiction recovery, and Pesach. Delve into the intersection of spirituality and mental well-being as they share insights and strategies for personal growth during the holiday season. Gain valuable perspectives on overcoming challenges and finding inner strength amidst adversity. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own journey or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers practical wisdom and compassionate guidance. To purchase the Four Cups Haggadah: https://a.co/d/1dWimj7

What is the reason why we eat matzah at the Seder? In the Haggadah, we say that the reason is because "our ancestors did not have time for their dough to rise before the Holy One revealed Himself and redeemed them." But is that the actual reason why we eat matzah? Is it not because we were commanded to do so? Analysis of the reason why we eat matzah leads us to understanding different spiritual levels that can be attained through eating matzah on Pesach. Text-based study of the Rebbe's maamar Matzah Zo 5749. This class covers Chapters 1-2 of the maamar.

Modern life has disconnected us from the rhythms of the cosmos. However, during an eclipse, we collectively look up and are reminded that the universe is in motion, hinting at the existence of a Divine Creator.

Day 339: Positive Commandment 191, 214; Negative Commandment 311, 58; Positive Commandment 221; Negative Commandment 263, 264; Conclusion