Was the Ark taken into captivity, or buried in a Temple Mount tunnel? What did the Rebbe say to someone searching for the Ark under the mountain?
A fascinating journey through history that sheds new light on the meaning of the Temple in our time.
The golden calf, the translation of the Torah, and Shammai's "power grab". A historical journey through dramatic moments in our past, with a bold message for the present.
Should you force the kids to go to synagogue?
Strict parenting might produce quick results, but guiding with the powers of persuasion is more effective and durable.
History proves it.
Intuition, devotion, and influence: the three defining feminine characteristics that are so important in our lives.
An angel is blocking Bilaam's way,
and his donkey rebukes him publicly.
Why all the drama?
A lesson about the meaning of punishment
and the importance of every individual.
Historically, our nation's most transformative moments came as a result of persecution.
In this foundational discourse, the Rebbe explains how today's freedoms set the stage for Judaism's most consequential test.
Optimism isn’t naivety, the majority isn’t always right, and modernity isn’t an enemy. Lessons from the spies of Moses and Joshua.
The Menorah is one of the best-known Jewish symbols.
prominent in the Temple and in the visions of the prophets.
What does it symbolize?
Can a blessing be too good?
Can a Divine gift be diverted?
If yes, is there any blessing that is impervious to all problems?
Judging the actions of others may inadvertently seal the verdict for yourself.
The event of the giving of the Torah is considered a "marriage" between G-d and the Jewish people.
What form of loyalty does this relationship require?
When we’re at our lowest point, we must look up at the pitch-dark heaven and remember: tomorrow the moon will shine again
If I can’t get it right, why bother?
What do we do when the ideal is just not within reach?
Sometimes it seems like there's a bug in G-d's system.
He commands us to do something, but makes it impossible to fulfill...
Did anyone ever ask G-d this question?
Will the vision of the resurrection of the dead in the Messianic era actually be realized? Who will be resurrected, and when? Answers to all the questions you wanted to ask about the resurrection.
Before Passover, we scrub our houses clean of all leavened bread. Yet, just a few weeks later, chametz becomes a most important element of the Holy Temple service. Why the transformation? What does it represent in the journey of the soul?
The Passover Haftarah relates an incredible vision of redemption: people rising from their graves, and a lamb and a wolf relaxing together. How and when will this happen? Has anything like this happened in the past? And what is Queen Cleopatra's connection to this?
Idolatry seems primitive and ludicrous. Why are the Jewish people called “wise” on account of their choice to serve G-d?
A fascinating discussion about the complexities of life and the courage to choose right.
"I do mitzvahs without feeling," "I didn't have a choice" — does that count as a mitzvah? Does an unintentional transgression count?
On Judaism's double standard on the importance of intent
Can the forces of darkness actually create something? Is witchcraft a real phenomenon in our times?
Why did Esther hesitate to petition Achashverosh to save the Jews, and how did Mordechai convince her to do it? An argument with an eternal message.
An honor guard of Priests and Levites operated at the Holy Temple. Is the guard still required after the destruction of the Temple?
How could manna from heaven serve as forensic evidence in Moses's court, and how could lions participate in Solomon's judicial proceedings?
The Torah is not in the Heavens!
G-d gave the Jewish people the Ten Commandments. Forty years later, Moses restates them, but there are some differences between the two versions. Why?
As the Egyptians pursued them, the Jews were busy arguing about what their next step should be. Was collective suicide and option? And why did G-d side against passionate prayer?
An eye-opening exploration of free choice, reward and punishment, and the power of humans to change G-d’s mind.
Do you feel ineffective in your personal life? Frustrating by the difficulty in influencing people? The ten plagues have a lesson for you.
How did two midwives serve an entire nation, why didn’t Pharaoh punish them, and what reward did they receive?
Jacob wants to bless his grandsons, but suddenly the Divine spirit leaves him? Why did this happen? What was the solution? And what does all this have to do with the sanctity of Joseph and Osnat's marriage?
How can we give encouragement to a person going through a crisis? How did G-d encourage Jacob on his way to a difficult exile in Egypt?
Who was the young woman that kindled the fire of rebellion of the Maccabees? Who was the woman whose resourcefulness helped the Maccabees win? And why did women suffer more than anyone else under Greek rule?
Betrayed by his brothers as a boy, abused by his master and let down by those close to him, he keeps on smiling, helping others, and eventually saves the world! What is his secret?
What trait can help us become close to G-d, reach a deep understanding of the Torah, improve our personal and work relationships, and contribute to every facet of life?
From the time of Laban the Aramaean, to Haman and Ahasuerus, and all the way down the the present, we have suffered from antisemites who attempt to harm us. Why do they hate us? And how should we respond?
Our forefather Abraham introduced the concept of monotheism and hospitality. Jacob's legacy was the 12 tribes of Israel. But what was Isaac's legacy?
Abraham sent his servant Eliezer to find a wife for his son Isaac. When Eliezer arrived at his destination he prayed to G-d and was promptly answered. A comparison with prayers of Moses and King Solomon reveals that Eliezer the servant was answered quicker. Why?
Abraham hosted G-d Himself in his tent. When he saw three passing Arabs, he asked G-d to wait while he welcomes and cares for them. Only later did he reveal that his guests were in fact angels in disguise… Did Abraham keep G-d waiting for a fake mitzvah?
An original analysis of the Biblical story
The three cardinal principles for life we are taught by the Torah’s first three portions. Don’t get stuck in the past, don’t fall into a rut, and don’t become complacent.
The builders of the Tower of Babel invented bricks, thereby revolutionizing construction. Pharoah later used the same techniques for the building of the pyramids. Are the two great construction projects related?
History, Incarnations and education
A rare, exciting and inspiring event, united the entire Jewish people in one place for an extraordinary experience. What’s the real story of the mitzvah of “Hakhel”, why is it so special, and is it still relevant today?
During the High Holidays we read the exhortations to repentance of the prophets Hosea, Isaiah, and Jonah. Are they all discussing the same repentance, or are there different types of repentance for different people?
An address about repentance and what type of repentance is right for me.
“Chanah’s prayer” is a fascinating biblical story that reflects the inner life and challenges of us all, and is especially relevant on the most important day of all - Rosh Hashanah.
Women’s rights became a prominent issue in the 20th century. The revolution that the Rebbe spearheaded in this regard may come as a surprise to many.
The tribe of Levi is G-d’s “special unit,” tasked with teaching G-d’s ways to the public. Did you know that nowadays this service isn’t restricted to those born into the tribe of Levi, and is open to volunteers?
Poverty is humiliating, and creates social inequality. Why does poverty exist? Why doesn’t G-d give everyone their needs without them having to rely on others’ kindness? A class on the purpose of poverty and wealth, with life lessons for both the wealthy and poor.
What does the shattering of the tablets have to do with the death of the righteous? Did the letters fly off the stone before Moses broke them? An original perspective on the shattering of the tablets and its contemporary relevance.
Every morning and evening we read two passages, shema and vehaya im shamoa. What are the different lessons of these two passages? And how does this relate to the critical question of who is responsible for educating our children - the school or the parents?
The Jewish people sinned many times during their years in the desert. But Moses chose a very specific time and method to rebuke them, teaching us an invaluable lesson regarding interpersonal relations.
Just before entering the Land of Israel, a drama unfolds: Two tribes prefer to remain outside. Why? How does Moses respond? And why does he add more people to their group?
Which relationship is more challenging - my relationship with G-d or with my neighbor? And which relationship does Jewish tradition consider more important?
Why do bad things happen? Are catastrophes G-d's retribution for our sins?
The great leader who took the Jewish people out of Egypt, gave them the Ten Commandments, and led them to the entrance of the Promised Land, was punished to die in the desert just because he hit the rock. How is this fair?
Sometimes going half-way isn’t enough. Whether as a person of faith, or a leader of others, one can’t selectively engage with just the enjoyable ideas or like-minded people. Otherwise, you’re left with nothing.
There is an old technique to help remember things: to tie a knot.
Jewish tradition says that Pharaoh’s ministers did so, and so did the sages of the Mishnah. Even today, Jews tie knots every day in order to remember.
Why does a knot prevent forgetfulness? And did G-d do so Himself?
Moses ordained Joshua, and Joshua ordained his students. This continued from generation to generation — until it stopped
What happened? What broke the chain of tradition?
What's Judaism's position about rejoicing at someone's misfortune?
The Torah gives us 613 commandments, and gives Seven Noahide Laws to society at large. But one rule applies to everyone equally - and yet it was left unsaid: Be a mensch!
People are always looking for guidance. For every aspect of life, there are mentors and guides and therapists and trainers.
What does the Torah say of the matter? Who is worthy of your trust? And how do angels fit into the picture?
Each Friday night, as the family gathers around the Shabbat table, we sing “Eshet Chayil,” the ode of the Jewish woman.
“Charm is deceptive and beauty is vain,” we declare in its closing.
What exactly does that mean?
Rabbi Akiva is famous for his motto: Love your fellow as yourself. Yet, his own students died for... disrespecting their peers. Were they sleeping through class?
Jews recite blessings constantly: upon awakening, during prayers, before eating and afterwards. Why the obsessiveness? Can't we just do one big 'thank you' each morning?
The Talmud records a bizarre argument between the High Priest and the Chief Rabbis. For generations, readers have been puzzled: Is that behavior befitting the most distinguished members of the Jewish people? In 1986, the Rebbe explained it's deeper meaning.
Who was responsible for streetlights in the olden days? What is the ultimate Jewish nail treatment? And how does it relate to being a Chassid?
The world around us is tumultuous and turbulent. Terrorism in Israel, the war in Europe and divisions in societies around the world evoke feelings of fear and anxiety. What can we do about it? During the Plague of the Firstborn, blood on doorposts protected the Jews. What its modern day version?
Just as Jerusalem seemed doomed by a massive invasion, matters took a stunning turn. A lesson about hope, vision, and the importance of education.
Haman, the “star” of Purim, is a descendant of the Amalekites, the focus of the Torah reading on the Shabbat preceding Purim.
Who are they? What do they signify? And how do we overcome them?
How did Haman persuade King Achashverosh to annihilate the Jews? Why did G-d agree? And what was the turning point that changed the course of the story?
The Kabbalistic underpinnings of the Purim Story.
Elon Musk tweeted that aliens built them, the prevailing tradition is that the Israelites built them, and Egyptian scholars claim that Egyptians built them. But everyone is still amazed: how did they manage to move such heavy stones? And why couldn’t the Levites use the same technology in erecting the Tabernacle?
Only one author in Jewish history had the courage to say that his compilation encompasses the entire Oral tradition.
Are demons bothered by charity giving at night? What is the most famous will in Jewish history? Which country excels in the mitzvah of charity?
The coronavirus raised awareness for proper hygiene. In fact, in the Tabernacle in the desert over three thousand years ago, the priest would wash his hands and feet before beginning the holy service.
What is spiritual hygiene? And why should the women be in charge?
Haman and his team of senior astrologers chose the perfect time to annihilate the Jews: the month Moses died. But his plan didn’t work. What was their mistake?
A massive fundraising campaign was kicked off after the Exodus to fund the construction of the Tabernacle.
When exactly did it take place? And why exactly was a Tabernacle necessary?
Humans like to strive for perfection. However, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the first Chabad Rebbe, wrote an entire book about reaching the level of a ‘beinoni,’ commonly translated as ‘mediocre.’
What exactly did he mean?
Before a person converts, he is told, “Being Jewish is difficult.” Afterwards, he is told, “Being Jewish is great!”
What’s going on?
Before the Israelites left Egypt, some chased after gold and some chased after graves — both upon the express command of G-d. Who was right?
A lesson about priorities.
The Egyptians who revered cattle as deities, but they were remarkably tolerant of the Jewish tradition of eating meat. But when the Jews slaughtered the sheep for the Paschal offering, they went berserk. What happened?
The Torah gives 613 commandments for Jewish people. But what about the non-Jews? Does Judaism have a message for all mankind?
Why does Torah call Moses with a near pejorative? How should we view our inner anti-Semite? And why do we celebrate birthdays?
Is there significance to the day of the week I was born? Does Judaism believe in the Evil Eye? Is there a safe zone?
The Greeks are known for the tremendous wisdom they contributed to the world. The Jewish people, for time immemorial, cherished intellect and the pursuit of wisdom as well. Why then, couldn’t we get along?
The Zohar’s story about Abraham, Rashi’s story about Jacob, and the Rebbe’s story about Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. What do the stories have in common? And what was the common denominator which made them eternal Jewish heroes?
What causes people to be magnanimous? What’s the right way to handle success? When the first Chabad Rebbe bested his opponents and achieved legitimacy for the new Chassidic movement, he wrote a letter to his followers which set their priorities straight.
The Talmud states that three categories of people are absolved of all their sins: the newly married, the newly appointed leader, and the newly appointed ‘sage.’
Why? Is this absolution attainable for ordinary people?
Life-lessons from Esau, Rabbi Ze’irah, and Israel’s third president.
Every new bride goes through an ‘admission test’ in her new family. In Abraham’s family, there was a very high bar. Rebecca was accepted into the family only when she managed to bring several miracles into her home: A Cloud of Glory, a growing dough, and a candle that wouldn’t go out. What do those miracles represent?
In this week's Haftorah, we read a fascinating story about an evil king, a poor widow, and children who are almost taken into slavery. What's the deeper meaning? Kabbalah has the answer.
Prophecies, omens, and science. What is the Jewish view? Should we read into the random occurrences in our lives? Should we view scientific advances as questioning our faith? And, by the way — is it possible to jump to the moon?
Not long ago, we each purchased a Lulav and Etrog set for Sukkos for a tidy sum. A pair of Tefillin is even more costly, and to send a child to a Jewish school you need to open a savings account. Why must things be this way?
When G-d tells Noah that he plans to destroy humanity, Noah does not pound on the table and demand mercy. Why? Why didn't he act like Moses, who pounded on the table and prevented the Children of Israel from being punished?
A deeper reading will shed light on Noah's reasoning and teach us how to judge others.
The commitment of Rosh Hashanah, the emotional connection of Yom Kippur, and the intellectual integration of Simchat Torah: This map was outlined by the Tzemach Tzedek, recounted by the previous Rebbe, and explained by the Rebbe.
This coming year is going to be a Jewish Leap Year. How do these leap years work? Why are they instituted? And what does it say about the Jews?
An astrological journey in the heavens, its impact on the Jewish calendar, and the Jewish soul.
We all have family customs that accompany each Jewish holiday which often occupy us more than the mitzvahs of the holiday themselves. Are we exaggerating? Have we lost the proper equilibrium?
When was polygamy banned in Judaism? Who didn’t agree? Why was the initiator known as “Light of the Exile”?
The history of Rabbeinu Gershom’s landmark enactments and their kabbalistic significance.
The Torah commands that several groups of soldiers be absolved of their military obligation. Why? Is this for the benefit of the war? Or maybe for some social purpose?
Your advisors always tell you to delegate authority and focus on a target audience. Can these principles be applied to the world of education as well?
The secret to success is to properly balance our minds and hearts. A daily ritual, dating back to the days of the Egyptians, will help you attain this balance.
When the Jews saw the Temple burning, they rejoiced… Really? What was joyful about the destruction of the Temple? The Arizal, the great Kabbalist, uncovers the secret.
We sometimes yearn for certain experiences or feel nostalgia for things that are out of our control. Should we push those feelings aside? Or do they serve a purpose of their own?
On which date did the Babylonians invade Jerusalem? Was it the ninth of Tammuz or the seventeenth? An apparent contradiction in ancient Jewish sources is resolved by examining biblical military strategies — with the insight and awareness that that a bad situation can always be turned into a good one.