Religion
G-d is not an Orthodox Jew, nor is G-d Conservative or Reform. What about you?
It isn’t what you think it is. It isn’t cold, it isn’t irrelevant, it isn’t biased, and it certainly isn’t chauvinistic. Religion gets a very bad rap. But Religion is to existence what notes and scales are to music; Religion is to humanity what grammar is to language. Religion is but a highly sophisticated system of spiritually mathematical rules that allow us to experience life and reality in a deeply meaningful way. The challenge of course is discovering the music in the notes, lest it be coerced piano lessons all over again. And this discovery is why you are here.
Misplaced Humility: When Pride is a Necessity
Explore the concept of misplaced humility and how acknowledging and embracing one’s strengths and accomplishments can be essential for personal growth and fulfilling one’s potential.
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Religious Wars
“I’m constantly hearing the religion causes war argument. What is your take on this issue?”
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Are You Sure You Don’t Have Faith?
Faith is not what most people think it is. True faith is not the absence of reason. It’s neither simple nor childish. So, what is it?
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Can Ken and Barbie Ever Get Along? The Secret to True Equality
Can Ken and Barbie Ever Get Along? The Secret to True Equality
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What is Kabbalah?
Explore the profound teachings of Kabbalah in this class, where Rabbi Simon Jacobson demystifies its ancient wisdom and reveals how it applies to your daily life.
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The Mistakes We All Make
Discover and learn insightful tips on how to turn life’s common mistakes into opportunities for growth.
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Is It Ok to Be Sad?
Explore the role of sadness in our lives, discussing how it can serve as a powerful catalyst for personal growth and deeper connections with others. He emphasizes that when handled properly, sadness can lead to profound introspection and self-discovery.
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Why are We So Divided? How to Create a UNITED States
Explore the deep-rooted causes of societal division and offers insights on how to foster unity and create a truly united state.
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Was Trump Saved by G-d?
Explore the concept of divine intervention and its implications in contemporary events, reflecting on how faith and spirituality influence our understanding of political and personal occurrences.
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Reacting to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump
What happened?? Making sense of the attempted assassination on Donald Trump
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A True Leader Creates Leaders; Not Followers
Discover that true leadership is about empowering others to become leaders themselves, by highlighting the importance of fostering growth, independence, and the ability to inspire others.
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Happy Father’s Day!
Explore the profound influence of fathers on their children and society. He offers reflections on the unique responsibilities and joys of fatherhood, providing heartfelt insights and blessings to celebrate and honor fathers.
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Is World Peace Achievable? Lessons from Sinai
Discover how the lessons from Sinai can guide us toward achieving world peace in this insightful video.
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Memorial Day: Remember and Honor
Explore the profound significance of Memorial Day, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom.
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Searching for the Land of Milk and Honey
Explore the profound search for fulfillment and spiritual purpose in “Searching for the Land of Milk and Honey”.
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The 15 Steps in 15 Minutes
Discover the profound journey of self-reflection and transformation in just 15 minutes with ‘The 15 Steps’ video, guiding you through the Passover Seder’s spiritual significance.
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Exodus 2024: Gaza, Iran and Egypt
Explore the timeless lessons of Exodus amidst modern challenges in Gaza and Egypt, delving into the deep-rooted narratives that shape our world today.
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Total Eclipse: Is This the End of the World?
Explore the profound insights on the total eclipse and its significance in “Total Eclipse: Is This the End of the World?”
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How to Deal with Unethical Leaders
Learn practical strategies for navigating the challenges of unethical leadership.
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The Kabbalistic Secret to Drinking Responsibly
Discover profound wisdom and spiritual insights into your relationship with alcohol.
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Some Dance to Remember, Some Dance to Forget…
Delves into the profound impact of memory in our lives.
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Rabbi Speaks Out on DEI
Discover the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and its role in fostering a more compassionate and connected society.
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Argentina and Israel: A Modern Day Miracle
Explore the inspiring tale of the enduring bond and remarkable collaboration between Argentina and Israel in this enlightening video.
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What Is a Mind Without a Soul?
History is a witness to the fact that Jews are always at the center of world events. In every single generation the Jews have been ostracized. But why?
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Why is the World Obsessed with Jews?
History is a witness to the fact that Jews are always at the center of world events. In every single generation the Jews have been ostracized. But why?
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United or Divided Nations?
With wars waging between Israel and Gaza and between Russia and Ukraine, are nations more united or more divided than ever before? Have we made any progress between nations?
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Do You Feel Abandoned?
With wars waging between Israel and Gaza and between Russia and Ukraine, are nations more united or more divided than ever before? Have we made any progress between nations?
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Why We Need Pain
The definition of growth means moving from one state to another. How is this possible? Only through going out of our comfort zone. We need to feel the discomfort in order to grow.
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You Were Born an Original; Don’t Become a Copy
You Were Born an Original; Don’t Become a Copy
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How to Wage a War Against Apathy
Apathy, characterized by indifference, can hinder personal growth and the pursuit of meaningful goals. Discover a comprehensive approach to inspire and ignite a passionate and purposeful life.
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The UNITED States: Why Are We So Divided?
Join Rabbi Simon Jacobson in unraveling the complexities of our divided nation, and embark on a journey towards a more united and harmonious United States. Together, let us discover the path to healing and forge a brighter future for generations to come.
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The Soul of Charisma
Spiritual charisma is not about seeking validation or trying to impress others. It is about embodying and radiating your authentic spiritual nature, connecting with others on a deeper level, and inspiring them to explore their own spirituality.
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Are All Political Leaders Corrupt?
The very question itself, posed by many, speaks of our mistrust and negative feelings towards our leaders today. Does being a leader mean that you need to compromise, negotiate and manipulate your way through power? Can a leader even keep his values and morals intact these days?
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Seize the Day: A Message to All Graduates
Youth Crime and Social Media: How Can We Stop the Trend?
Youth Crime and Social Media: How Can We Stop the Trend?
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This Video Will Make You Want to Call Your Mother
The innate power and strength of a mother; lessons on love, selflessness and complete devotion.
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Think Different. Be Different. Think for Yourself. Be Yourself.
Think Different. Be Different. Think for yourself. Be Yourself.
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How Can I Give Charity Amid Financial Uncertainty?
How Can I Give Charity Amid Financial Uncertainty?
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What Nobody Ever Told You About Passover
This is where it all began, when a family of tribes became a nation of people, when a body of slaves became a soul of freedom. Some people have an exit strategy; we have an exodus strategy.
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Esther’s Secret: Why Jews Celebrate Her Every Year on Purim
Esther’s Secret: Why Jews Celebrate Her Every Year on Purim
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Is ChatGPT a Sign that Something Bigger is Coming?
Is ChatGBT a Sign that Something Bigger is Coming?
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The Soul of the Super Bowl
Lessons on sports, competition and the deeper meaning behind the Super Bowl
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Biblical Events Decoded: Synesthesia: Where Sight Meets Sound
Can you hear your sights and see your sounds? Discover the connection between all our senses and learn how to transcend their nature
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Biblical Events Decoded: The Land and Sea within You
Biblical Events Decoded: The Land and Sea within You
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Biblical Stories Decoded: Exodus: Let My People Go!
How to Grow through Pain and Suffering
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The Physics and Kabbalah of Chanukah
Discover how the properties of light, so powerfully reflected in the Chanukah flames, teach us the essence of who we are and who were meant to be: Transparent channels of a higher reality.
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The Final Showdown
Lessons on confrontation; how to deal with the perpetual battles of life.
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The Soul’s Journey to a Dark World
Lessons on the journey of life; how to transform our world with light and warmth
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The Masquerade of Life
Lessons on “dressing up” for a greater cause; do the clothes make the man or the man makes the clothes?
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The Flame, The Cloud and the Dough: 3 Secrets to Eternal Love
Lessons from our mother Sara; how to be a selfless giver
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Why is G-d Invisible?
Lessons on blind faith and true reality; when seeing is not always believing
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Does Religion Demand Conformity?
Lessons on community and individuality; how to be a unique member in a synergetic society
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The Search for Paradise: Tasting the Forbidden Fruit
Lessons on temptation and betrayal: how to regain your innocence and restore your trust
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Rochel: The Selfless Lover
Lessons on eternal relationships and unconditional love; how to be the giver in your life
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Chana: The Prayer Whisperer
Lessons on tears and prayers: discover how to pray and pour out your soul to G-d from the depths of your being.
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Jonah and the Whale: The Man who Tried to Run from G-d
Lessons on repentance and forgiveness: you can run but you cannot hide.
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Samson: A Man of Great Strength and Great Hair
Lessons on physical strength and moral weakness; a tale of hair and humanity.
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Jeremiah: The Prophet of Doom and Deliverance
Lessons on destruction and renewal; how to build – and rebuild – the bridge between matter and spirit.
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Pinchas: The Peaceful Zealot
Lessons on fundamentalism and radicalism: Is religious extremism dangerous?
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King David: The Warrior and The Psalmist
Lessons on being a successful leader: how to empower your people and ignite their hearts and souls.
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Balaam: The Prophet Whose Curses Turned into Blessings
Lessons from a donkey to a prophet: how to transform negativity into positivity.
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Joseph: The Prince of Egypt
Lessons on loyalty and royalty: the journey from pauper to prince
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Korach: The Rebel
Lessons on authority and bureaucracy: When to challenge and when to accept?
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Moses: The Ultimate Leader
Lessons on humility, trust and communication: how one modest man became the greatest leader of all time.
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Jacob and Esau: The Battle between Good and Evil
Lessons on confrontation and peace: how to balance matter and spirit and merge the body and soul
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Sara: The “First Lady’ of the Bible
Lessons on dignity, devotion and determination: behind every great man, lies a powerful woman.
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Abraham: The First Pioneer
Lessons on how to be a nonconformist: transform the tests of life into healing, purpose and meaning.
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Is God Orthodox? Religious Fundamentalism and Spirituality
Join Rabbi Simon Jacobson as he dissects these critical issues, digs into their very core roots and comes away with a surprising and refreshing take on God, faith, religion — and its far reaching implications in our lives.
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Can I Be a Good Person Without Believing in God?
What is a “good person”? Join Rabbi Jacobson for a fascinating discussion on how to be a sincerely good person. Tap into the deeper energy and get to the root of where goodness and kindness truly stem from.
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Why Are We Obsessed with the Royal Family?
Why are people so inclined toward following and idolizing celebrities in general? And what does it say about us as a society that these are our role models and influencers?
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Post-Synagogue Judaism?
Join Rabbi Simon Jacobson as he addresses how the corona-imposed closures have forced people to pray in their homes instead of their synagogues. How has this caused us to challenge some long-standing “norms” of Judaism?
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Religious Stereotypes: The G d You Don’t Believe In I Too Don’t Believe In
Religious Stereotypes and Distortions Rabbi Simon Jacobson, April 2018, Washington, DC
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How to Host Your First Passover Seder (or Your First Great One)
Discover in this program methods and tips to creating an unforgettable experience, which will empower all with sustainable tools to free themselves emotionally, psychologically and spiritually.
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Bridging Modernity And Faith
This talk was given by Rabbi Simon Jacobson in Hale, England on November 22, 2015.
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Can God Change His Mind?
The Torah was received thousands of years ago. Is it possible that G-d has changed his mind about some of the stipulations He wrote in it?
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Betrayed by Religious Leader
How can one cope when he is betrayed by a religious leader? Should he leave religion altogether?
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Does G-d Exist? Why Atheists May Be Closer to Truth than Believers
Take part in a fascinating discussion about the existence of G-d and reveal an entirely new perspective of G-d, G-d’s existence, and yourself.
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Why is Paris Burning? France, Napoleon, Islam and the Alter Rebbe
1/9/2015 : Let’s look at the bigger picture and discover the hidden choreography behind these events in France by placing them in historical context.
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Elitism: Are We All Created Equal?
Parshat Pinchas helps unravel the yichus dilemma – illuminating the balance between elitism & the masses; individuality and responsible leadership.
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Bamidbar/Shavuot: After 3336 Years How Far Are We From Sinai?
Israel is under attack, yet again. As we stand in proximity of Shavuot, when we relive the revelation at Sinai, this may be the best time to demand accountability of the Arab/Muslim world for their actions, and to call the rest of the world to demand a response.
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In Defense of Anarchy
The continued quest for an authentic teacher results in a discussion about the virtues of a specific anarchy and the refinement of our search for a rabbi.
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Bad Religious Experiences
True faith is a powerful force. Like a fire it has the power to warm and illuminate, but also the power to consume and destroy. When edging close to the fire great care has to be taken to ensure that you are able to take the heat and contain the light.
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And Moses Gathered… My Georgian Genes
Find inspiration in Moses’ gathering the 600,000 Jews in Parshat Vayakhel to appreciate the great diversity within Judaism.
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Open Your Eyes
A personal story about a blind woman who rediscovered her Judaism and the great miracle that occurred afterwards.
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Yitro: Beauty or the Beast?
Islam stands today at a crossroads: Will it embrace the beauty or the beast?
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Beshalach: Israel & the Non-Jews
Israel’s spiritual centrality serves as a gift to all the nations, including the Jews who are charged with the task of bringing these nations closer to G-d.
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Bo: Israel – The Inside Story
A theory on the world’s fixation with Eretz Yisroel and how you can bring peace to the Holy Land and holiness to where you live.
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8 Steps to Building Your Inner Menorah
Some menorahs are made of gold, some of silver, some of plastic. The most profound menorahs are fashioned of flesh and blood, of tears and sweat, of you and I. We are menorahs. It is time to rise and shine.
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War In Israel: What We Must Do
Let us create a true revolution. Let us reconnect to our Divine mission. Let us move heaven and earth with our actions. We have been promised that when we do, we will save the universe – literally.
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Our Response to Tragedy
The response to a gruesome attack, is to channel all our outrage and fury into a spiritual eruption of building an even stronger holy land, both physically and spiritually.
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Dancing Particles
Your soul has a mission whose contract has been renewed. This is your personal mission statement – the reason you are here on earth.
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Are You Unique?
Become a giver, instead of a taker, and you will find the courage to be yourself, to finally allow your unique voice to play its own music.
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One Heart: The Message of Shavuot
In Parshat Bamidbar what power did Sinai have that united the people when they “camped opposite the mountain”? Total fusion of matter & spirit; body & soul.
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Drugs – Strange Fire
A soul burning with fiery passion is an incredible asset, but lack of self-control coupled with the pursuit of selfish desires lead to disaster.
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Giving Up Your Life for God?
Should we “give up” our lives for God? Certainly not! That’s sacrifice. We shouldn’t give up our God-given talents and behaviors; we should bring them closer to their purer state.
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The Two Floods
In our lives we have both options: A deluge of waters that will overwhelm and destroy us; or a deluge of Divine knowledge that submerges us in its watery embrace.
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Possibilities
In Eikev, this week’s Torah portion, we begin to deal with one of life’s biggest questions: “What am I truly capable of achieving”…
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The Education Crisis
Undoubtedly education of the young is the key to preserving spiritual identity. Today, nothing less than a revolution is necessary in our education systems.
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Is G-d Vulnerable?
True love means being vulnerable. Our relationship with G-d is one of vulnerability and equal dependence on each other.
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The Seder Plate: A Microcosm of Your Psyche
The Seder plate serves as a reflection of both your purpose in life and your greatest potential, and contains in its structure multiple layers of symbolism.
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To See the Divine
To see the Divine, you learn to savor every sight, every sound, every taste, every touch, every smell.
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Help! I Need A Spiritual Guru!
Finding a spiritual guru takes a lot of due diligence. This is what you should look for in a spiritual guru.
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Where Is G-d?
A correspondence between Rabbi Jacobson in response to a self-proclaimed agnostic.
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Will G-d Strike Me With Lightning?
Seven myths and facts about the ancient mystical Jewish view on the relationship between our choices and their outcomes…
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Israel: Is this a Political or Religious War?
What if we’re to find out the Middle East is indeed in the midst of religious war; one that is threatening the entire world? That this really is about G-d?
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Religion and Refinement
The contrast of a person being so devout on one hand, while being so coarse on another, is terribly unnerving.
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The Pure Ones
The innate purity within children and their effortless connection to the Divine is examined, despite popular scientific theories and thought to the contrary.
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Are You Your Own Worst Enemy?
The great gift of Torah is that it provides us with a Divine blueprint on how to live our lives. Your unique mission statement is embedded within you.
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Think Different Part II: On the Nature of Intelligence
Part two of a discussion about cognitive processes, particularly the twofold approach for expanding one’s mind and tuning into the collective unconscious.
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When No is Greater than Yes
Avoiding the wrong thing is better than doing the right thing; protecting is better than serving (Samech Vav) as seen in Parshat Naso and the wilderness.
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Giving Up Your Life for God?
Should we “give up” our lives for God? Certainly not! That’s sacrifice. We shouldn’t give up our God-given talents and behaviors; we should bring them closer to their purer state.
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How to Treat Infidels
Faith in G-d extends to loving other people, regardless of their background and similarity to you. Faith is about extending love and compassion.
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Rosh Hashana: One Request
On this day each year we return to our origins: Not the dust part, but the spirit – the dimensions that makes us uniquely human.
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Abraham Today
Interesting to envision how a man who lived over 3700 years ago would react to our world and what he would do to improve our condition.
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The Ten Days of Teshuvah
The first ten days of the Jewish calendar are known as “the ten days of teshuvah.” These are days for soul-searching, repentance and return (teshuvah) to G-d.
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Five Roots of Trauma Revisited
Using the concepts of The Five Roots of Trauma, this article looks at the five tragic events that took place on the 17th of Tammuz..
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Yom Kippur: Why the High Priest Went Home
Seven days before Yom Kippur, the Kohen Gadol (“High Priest”) is removed from his home to his chamber in the Holy Temple. Learn about the significance of home in relation to Yom Kippur.
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Chanah’s Prayer
Chana’s prayer taught us how to pray on Rosh Hashanah and throughout the year. This essay is a deep look into Chana’s prayer as the source of Jewish prayer as we understand it.
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Rosh Hashanah Stories
Four Hasidic stories. Rosh Hashanah stories from Hasidic masters including the Baal Shem Tov and Rabbi Levi Yitzhak of Berditchev.
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Crime of Passion
The fire of our souls, like any fire, can be the source of sustenance (healthy fire), or… an inferno (“strange fire”). The challenge is great. The choice is ours.
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Passover: From Boredom To Freedom
Using Torah thought to personalize the Seder experience on Pesach, rendering it into a powerful psychological/spiritual journey into our own hearts & souls.
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Why is Paris Burning?
Inside “secrets” provide perspective to current events in France — and the world — illuminating for us: why is Paris burning? Why is France, of all places, at the forefront of today’s upheavals?
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Standards of Expectation
A profound but clear elucidation of Judaism’s view on judgmentalism and standards of expectation.
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The Soul of Religious Bigotry
There is a great vacuum that feeds bigotry, nourishing it where you’d least expect to find it; but there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
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Vayeira: How to Treat Infidels
The evolution of religion and all its manifestations and distortions can be traced back to Abraham’s passionate faith and what he taught his children, and what they did or did not do with these teachings.
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Bereishit: War In Israel: What We Must Do
Let us create a true revolution. Let us reconnect to our Divine mission. Let us move heaven and earth with our actions. We have been promised that when we do, we will save the universe – literally.
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On Diplomacy, Pride and Self-Respect
Diplomacy is a delicate art form, and the Rebbe assures in this letter that contrary to popular belief, “truly Jewish self-respect”, “avowed trust in G-d” and “pride in our Jewish heritage and tradition” are key in diplomatic success.
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Totalitarianism Today
The connection between accepting the yoke of Heaven and Rosh Hashanah. What kind of person can accept the yoke of heaven? Can you?
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Purim: Joy on Demand?
Purim is a day of joyous abandon that transcends conventional boundaries. It is a day when a window opens up that allows us deep inside of ourselves.
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A Singular People: Jewish Uniqueness
Purim celebrates the salvation of a singular people: Torah, the festivals, circumcision and tefillin are symbols of Jewish uniqueness.
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A Roll of Dice: The Purim Lots
Purim derives its name from the lots cast by Haman. It is not some incidental detail but the single event that most expresses what Purim represents.
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A Feast and a Fast: The Fast of Esther
With their joy the Jews rejected their uniqueness as a nation under the special protection of G-d. To save the Jews Esther knew they had to reconnect to G-d
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The Subconscious of G-d
Our sages describe the age of Moshiach as a reality which “the heart does not reveal to the mouth,” where we will inhabit the “subconscious” of G-d.
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Life in the Regular
The Torah delegates various aspects of our relationship with G-d to “appointed times” but we should also endeavor to make “every day an appointed time”.
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The Rebbe In His Laboratory
The story of why the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, once referred to a person in a letter, known to be an irreligious man, as a “G-d fearing man.”
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The Servant and the Minister
The minister serves his king with his mind; the servant with his body. Our service of the Creator includes both elements – embodied in Torah study & mitzvot.
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Dwelling on Sukkot
It is not enough to merely have faith. Sukkot is the time when we take the faith we’ve sown and incorporate it into our practical daily lives.
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Absorbing The Joy: The Significance of Shemini Atzeret
Sukkot is followed by a day in which our joy reaches its peak and the holiday that preceded this day is internalized.
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Reading Right
Learning Jewish law is a process. Read carefully and correctly so as not to be hasty in judging others.
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The Zealot
The Torah introduces Pinchas in Parshat Pinchas with the lineage of Aaron and not of his father Jethro, which explains why his murderous act is peaceful.
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The Three Loves of His Life
Love of G-d, love of Torah, and love of one’s fellow are in essence one. True love cannot exist in one of these areas alone, for they are all connected.
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Olympic Thoughts
Sports are all consuming in today’s society, but what can we learn from this about reality and illusion?
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Eikev: Religion VS. Spirituality
When it comes to religion and spirituality, are they mutually exclusive or can they sit comfortably side by side?
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The Infant Shepherd
Even as a baby, Moses was instrumental in bringing the Children on Israel out of a mindset of materialism and into one of spirituality.
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An Eye and a Sigh
A story of two devoted neighbors, one living a spiritual life and the other a material one, and their surprising judgments at death.
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Giving Up Your Life
The choice of words used to describe the sacrifices and the notion that we are bringing our inner beast to the altar are discussed.
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The Intimate Estrangement
Linking G-d’s bond with the Jews as a marriage with the ten haftarot called “the Three of Rebuke and the Seven of Consolation” in explaining the galut/exile.
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Forbidden Piety
Ultimately, we must recognize and utilize the fact that the Torah is the only source of life and well-being for the Jew, both spiritually and physically.
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My Encounter With The Rebbe
“When the Creator of the world gives us a gift, we must treasure it and defend it, and not look for ways to rid ourselves of it!” – The Rebbe
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Oil and Rock
Oil represents a person’s self-abnegation and submission to G-d. Only one who has totally abnegated his own will to that of G-d is capable of true sacrifice.
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The Power of Rejection
In this week’s Torah portion we read: Devorim – “these are the words that Moses spoke…” in the last 37 days of his life and from him there is much to learn.
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The Prisoner
An old chassidic story that exemplifies the awe chassidim have for their Rebbe.
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The Bottom Line
Discover how the unity of G-d can infiltrate even the most mundane of activities.
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An Unreasonable Source
Our every mitzvah should be saturated with the self-sacrifice and depth of commitment that motivated Shimon and Levi.
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The Human Biosphere
Spiritual and material principles are discussed in the context of laws of shechitah (slaughtering), as well as Chassidic perspectives of man.
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Devarim: Leaders That Unite
We is the saddest nine days of the year concluding with Tisha B’Av, which marks the tragic day both Temples were destroyed, a time to harness unity..
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Fire and Earth
Through defining the Halachic term of an earthen vessel, we learn two important factors in serving G-d appropriately: Humility and Passion.
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The Mysterious Sin
From the Chassidic Master, Rabbi Velvel of Zbaricz, we gain insight into the phenomenon of exile.
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Smorgasbord
The Baal Shem Tov teaches us about the importance of perseverance in our spiritual pursuits and our dynamic relationship with G-d.
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Life, Death and Reality
Discover a new perspective on death from the scope of spiritual reality. Learn how Torah operates within the confines of nature but is not limited by it.
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Yes and No
Gain insight into why G-d created the world and discover the spiritual significance behind the unique mitzvah of circumcision.
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Separatism
A divorce of deed from faith and feeling is obviously antithetical to the very essence of Judaism.
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The Third Millennium
In Abraham’s 75th year, a new era opened – the era of Torah. The era of tifferet, of the harmony and synthesis of the Divinely bestowed and humanly earned.
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The True Meaning of Divine Service
Insight into the true meaning of Divine service. Why did Aaron have to remove the ashes to the outside of the camp? This lowly task shows the true meaning of Divine Service…that true service is stepping down from your status on behalf of other people.
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Ownership of Israel
The Torah is establishing that it is more than a “rulebook,” more than a list of things to do or not to do. It is G-d’s blueprint for creation, our guide for realizing the purpose for which everything in heaven and earth was made including ownership of Israel.
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Lost in Translation: Understanding G-d
When understanding G-d in personally relevant terms, we invite Him into the core of our lives, rather than relegating Him to the periphery of our existence. Lessons from the incident of the golden calf.
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Lamps and Lives: The Holy Temple Menorah
Spiritual meaning of the Holy Temple Menorah, based on an essay from the Rebbe on Parshat Behalotcha (Numbers 8:1-4).
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G-d’s Relationship With The Kohen Gadol
A discussion based on Chassidus, Jewish mystical thought, on the basis that we refer to G-d as a kohen or a kohen gadol, as well as in other human terms.
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The Meaning: You Shall Be Holy for I Am Holy
What does the commandment “You shall be holy for I am holy” mean? Our relationship with G-d is complex. We contribute as much and even more than we receive.
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The Eruv: A Private World
The ultimate function of Shabbat is to establish an eruv in our “multi-occupant courtyard”: to integrate the diverse forces and realities of our world as a singular, harmonious expression of the divine truth.
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Pre-Marital Marriage
The following is a freely translated excerpt from a talk the Rebbe gave to women’s gathering on Iyar 25, 5744 (May 27, 1984) about the woman’s role in marriage.
The Thousand-Year Difference: The Mitzvot of Purim
Purim revealed a new dimension to our observance of Torah, establishing it as a freely-elected way of life, as opposed to a set of compelling duties. And this thousand-year difference is reflected in several of the mitzvot of Purim.
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Vaeira: Why is Paris Burning?
Inside “secrets” provide perspective to current events in France — and the world — illuminating for us: why is Paris burning? Why is France, of all places, at the forefront of today’s upheavals?
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Toldot: Our Response to Tragedy
The Jewish response to a gruesome attack, is to channel all our outrage and fury into a spiritual eruption of building an even stronger Jerusalem, both physically and spiritually.
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The Hellenist Coachman
It was not the Torah per se that Hellenic regime wished to uproot from the people of Israel, but Your Torah.
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A Shattering Reunion
It is told of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev that one year after Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, he stayed up all night waiting to put on tefillin.
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Daughters Near and Far: The Atzeret of Sukkot
Our receiving of the Torah on Shavuot is the “Atzeret” of our liberation from slavery seven weeks earlier.
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Chayei Sarah: Can East Meet West?
Abraham surely knew how religious zealotry can breed intolerance, condescension, judgmentalism and prejudices of all sorts — feeding into the ugliest elements of human nature.
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Shemini Atzeret: Breakthrough
Go deeper into your experience of concluding this year’s Torah reading cycle and beginning anew with ideas and stories from The Meaningful Life Center.
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Matot: What Can I Do About the Situation in Israel?
Let us create a true revolution. Let us reconnect to our Divine mission. Let us move heaven and earth with our actions. We have been promised that when we do, we will save the universe – literally.
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How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 2
Divisiveness might have kept you away from rabbis and from Judaism. Here is how to get past the shenanigans and find a true spiritual teacher.
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Was Moses Orthodox? Part 1
Did Moses practice orthodox Judaism? Do the distinctions between Jews really have a spiritual meaning? A controversial article by Rabbi Simon Jacobson.
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Was Moses Orthodox? Part 2
To understand if Moses practiced orthodox Judaism, we need to first understand what makes a Jew a Jew. The purpose of this article is to unite and empower. The soul makes a Jew a Jew, not a denomination.
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How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 1
How to identify an authentic rabbi. How to find a teacher who walks the walk, and does not just talk the talk.
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Herd Mentality: Does Religion Demand It?
Does religion demand that a person become part of a herd mentality? Or is there room for the individual in religious life? One truth is that materiality dictates conformity, and spirituality dictates individuality.
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Is G-d Religious?
Is G-d religious? Why are there so many laws in the Bible? Find out from an expert Bible scholar!
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The Skeptic & the Believer
A skeptic and a believer have an in-depth conversation about Judaism, God, and Torah. What follows is an illuminating discussion on faith.
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Korach: Gilad, Naftali and Eyal
Every man, woman, and child, is responsible when they hear about such news, to do something about it — as Maimonides explains.
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Can Children Survive Parents who Claim to Know the Absolute Truth?
A discussion with Stephen Dubner, author of Turbulent Souls, about growing up in a fundamentalist religious household.
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Tzav Passover: Money and Spirituality Part V
Wealth without its spirit, is the world in which we live in today. Wealth with its spirit is the economy of tomorrow.
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Rosh Hashana: New Year 5772
If we only allow ourselves to pull ourselves a bit back and out from our enmeshed lives, we can transcend many of our doubts, and see new opportunities, as an old world gives way to a new one.
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Emor: How to Speak
Passionate faith can spill over into dogma and intolerance. We must be vigilant that the path of faith should be saturated with love and inspiration.
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Time To Sing
I realized and continue to realize the deep grief of so many tormented souls; children whose lives were forever altered because of a self-indulgent, sick adult.
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Passover: Steve Jobs and Passover
The iPad mania reflects the design and marketing genius of Steve Jobs and his gifted team. But it also reveals the gaping vacuum in our lack of spiritual visionaries.
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Vayakhel Pekudei: Service or Slavery?
We humans must shed the blinding force of self-interest and respond to the call for service; we must weaken the grip that keeps us trapped and enslaved to our own temptations, and allow ourselves to be mobilized to serve – not human structures, but to serve – our higher calling.
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Ki Tisa: To Serve
If you need a strong wake-up call (and who of us does not?) visit a military base. It will teach you the dramatic difference between a life of duty and one of no duty.
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Vaeira: Haiti
Rabbi Simon Jacobson reflects on the humanitarian response to the Haiti disaster, and how it reflects a shift in global spiritual engagement.
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Vayechi: 2500 Seekers
Let us always remember that whomever you meet in the coming year will not be an accident. It will be an opportunity – a dual opportunity: For you to illuminate, inspire and warm that person’s soul, to inspire encourage that person to add and extra good deed; and for you to be illuminated and inspired in return.
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Vayeishev: Didgeridoo
A didgeridoo, also known as a didge, is considered to be the world’s oldest wind instrument. Jewish spiritual connection to the didgeridoo…
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Vayishlach: Hypocrisy
Instead of seeing hypocrisy in our inconsistencies, we should be seeing in them our struggle to discover our true selves—a struggle that inevitably creates a dichotomy between what you believe and what you do.
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Vayeitzei: Jewish Roots
Perhaps the venerable New York Times can learn a thing or two about “all the news that’s fit to print” from living with the times in this week’s Torah portion.
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Ki Teitzei: Religion and Dysfunctionality
Our calling is to marginalize (and possibly eliminate) so-called “religious” behavior that feeds the stereotype of close-minded, unevolved and condescending religiosity. And more importantly, reintroduce the alternative – faith and religion that allows man to actualize and shine in his full glory.
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Vaetchanan: Religion and Ethics
What should our attitude and response be when we witness Rabbis arrested in chains?
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Bamidbar: The Blessing of Diversity
Like different musical notes in a large composition, each community, group or even individual, contributes his or her unique note.
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Shemini: Shame On You
Our challenge – and choice – is to use technology and all the gifts we were blessed with not merely for personal gain and self-interest, or for entertainment and killing time, but for bettering the world in which we live.
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Vayikra: Restoring the Balance
When we are able to revisit our birthing, prior to the scars we gathered through life, we achieve two things: We see how things ought to be, and we are empowered to realign who we have become today with who we truly are.
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Vayishlach: Giving In Difficult Times
The words of the Zohar speak for themselves. They tell us in no uncertain terms that we must stand against any voice and challenge (including economic conditions) that argues against supporting (or weakening our support of) good causes.
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Chayei Sarah: Beyond Self-Interest
The model of shlichus – that an individual, or a couple, leave their comfort zone and self-orbiting life and go out to build communities – is a model for us all: the ultimate antidote to modern-day self-indulgence.
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Behar: Israel’s Secret Weapon
Since Israel’s birthday is in the news, it’s hard to ignore the relevance of this week’s Torah portion, which defines in succinct and pointed terms the purpose of the Land of Israel.
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Emor: Lysergic Acid Diethylamide
Even as we invalidate the method (LSD) used to reach G-d, we can never invalidate the person and his needs that led him to go there in the first place.
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Beyond Virtue
In practical terms being holy means going out of your comfort zone and conventional behavior.
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Tazria: Bad Religious Experiences Part 2
With the breakdown of authority, it is absolutely critical to ensure that each of us “own” our choices; that the path of faith become your path, not someone else’s.
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Shelach: Six-Day War
Paralleling the miraculous Six-Day War victory with the story of the Twelve Spies in Parshat Shelach – how Jewish leaders should learn from past mistakes.
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Yom Kippur: The Kittel
Comforts and freedom often lead to complacency, but Yom Kippur reminds us simultaneously of our troubles and our triumphs, encouraging us to reflect on the mysterious cycle of life.
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Shemini-Passover: Kaddish
Nothing can console those who have lost a loved one. The only thing keeping them whole is a connection something greater than death and life, G-d.
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Father: I Will Ask You
Rabbi Jacobson tells a story about his own Passover growing up, intertwined with a discussion about the four questions and the experience of life.
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Vayikra: The Tzaddik
Based on the insight of the Alter Rebbe and the Rebbe Rashab, the concept of a true tzaddik is explored in the context of the nature of this world.
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The Dust of History
The cosmic struggle to reconcile spirit and matter are captured in the story of Jacob and Esau and the battle between these two opposing forces.
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Toldot: The Power of Human Exertion
Who fully grasps a concept, one who immediately comprehends it, or one who must struggle to understand it? Part five of Samech Vov discusses this question, and examines the value of human exertion.
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Chaya Sarah: Tattoos
Man can transcend seemingly permanent scars or wounds – both physical and psychological – and access the inner recesses of his soul.
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Back To The Roots
Today our challenge is to rise above our finite mortality, our flaws and subjectivity, and embrace G-d on G-d’s terms.
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Noach: The Power of a Mitzvah
Doing a Mitzvah can be the difference between a life of enslavement in a finite bottle, or freeing your finite being by becoming a piece of finite infinity.
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Massei: My Enemies Make Me Wise
From our enemies we learn our weaknesses and what needs protection. From Al Qaeda’s new print-Internet magazine we learn about our own passion for Israel.
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Matos: Religious Violence Part II
The context behind waging war in Biblical historical events and the Torah’s perspective thereon, as seen in Parshat Matot in the Book of Numbers (Bamidbar).
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Pinchas: Religious Violence Part I
Pinchas, in Parsaht Pinchas, is a peaceful, selflessness zealot & exemplary in the face of current politico-religious tensions, radicalism and liberalism.
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Chukat: The Face
In Parshat Chukat Moses’ face turned pale: knowing what it means to be created in the “Divine Image” & learning the cycle of life & death through faces.
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Korach: The Journey Part II
The Torah is the roadmap in the journey of life, especially the Book of Bamidbar, Numbers.
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Shelach: The Journey Part I
Each chapter in the book of Bamidbar (as captured in each chapter name) conveys a vital message to us, in accumulating order, how we must travel our journey
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The Kabbala of Curses
The 49 curses listed in the Torah portion of Bechukosei evokes an interesting question: what possible benefit can be found in these curses?
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Acharei: How Is This Night Different
In order to spiritually prepare for the Seder, one should ask himself a series of questions related to the four questions recited from the Haggada.
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Metzora: Beyond Paradox
In order to fully grasp the truth of this world, one must embrace both the orderliness of life and its paradoxes.
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Tazria: Divine Wrath
Understanding the apparent abundance of violence and anger in the Torah requires one to gain deeper insight into its literal and symbolic dimensions.
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Individuality in Judaism
Freedom of expression and individuality are often quashed under religious pretenses in favor of a single-minded disciplinarian conformity.
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Vayishlach: Hypocrisy
When it comes to behavior on a day-to-day level, we all fall short of our own standards.
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Chayei Sarah: America Speaks
A commentary on the 2004 election of President George W Bush from a spiritual Jewish perspective.
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Matot-Masei: Tzugekumene
Response to a provocative letter: ‘The feeling of “us” and “them” was an undercurrent in the interactions between FFB’s and BT’s or non-observant Jews’.
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Behaalotecha: Mitchum
Parshat Behaalotcho discusses kindling the menorah that the flames rise on their own: recognizing G-d in our own lives by saying “im yirtzeh Hashem”.
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Bamidbar: After 3316 Years How Far Are We From Sinai?
Parshat Bamidbar: Sinai created an interface bridging heaven & earth, giving us the power to fuse matter & spirit entirely without compromising either or.
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Behar Bechukotai: Global Dimming
Present day conflict has a direct source in biblical schisms of our forefathers, and in the ongoing war between the spiritual and the material.
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Shemini: Religious Selfishness
Using personal anecdotes, Rabbi Jacobson explores of the side effects of practicing religion by rote, and the beauty of a true “religious” experience.
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Passover: The Slavery of Freedom
While hardship and lack of material prosperity are challenging, the opposites – freedom, ease, and wealth – beget soul-numbing complacency.
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Tzav: Believers
Using personal anecdotes as well as Chassidic stories, Rabbi Jacobson examines the different types of believers in light of his previous article on atheists.
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Terumah: The Passion
Once again the Jews are up on trial against the other religions of the world. Yet the nation must continue to stand strong as a “light unto the nations.”
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Vayera: Religious Selfishness
Abraham gave us the power to challenge G-d, asking Him to shift destiny. This we must when it comes to standing next to fellow Jews in defiance against G-d.
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Lech Lecha: Are You a Conformist?
Only when one leaves their comfort zone are they able to discover who they truly are.
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Nasso: Jerusalem Under Siege
What if we’re to find out the Middle East is indeed in the midst of religious war; one that is threatening the entire world? That this really is about G-d?
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Behar: How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 2
In part two of the answer to how one finds an authentic educator, Rabbi Simon Jacobson tells a personal story and discusses the shortcomings of modern education.
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Emor: How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 1
Rabbi Simon Jacobson answers a critical question: how does one find an authentic, truthful educator when it comes to Torah learning?
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Kedoshim: West of Eden
The present issues in the world are sourced in longstanding religious and metaphysical conflicts which revolve around the physical and figurative Babylon.
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Metzorah: In Search of Eden
The continued presence of both the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and particularly the Euphrates, indicates the ongoing presence of the Garden of Eden in this world.
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Tazriah: The River Euphrates
The Euphrates River has seen the rise and fall of man many times over, and plays a significant role in the ultimate redemption.
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Shemini: By the Rivers of Babylon
The current state of the world, as examined through the lens of Babylon, can trace its roots to a fundamental religious and ideological conflict of ancient days.
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Purim 2: Shushan War
Part two of the previous week’s article, “Purim: Connect the Dots,” continues to explore the significance of current conflict in light of historical events.
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Purim: Connect the Dots
Parallels are drawn between the Purim of 2360 years ago and the Purims of the modern Persian Gulf Wars, and the ultimate significance of the Persian region is examined.
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Pekudei: Two Faces of Esau
The story of Esau’s wedding leads to a two-faced world where some people struggle with G-d and justice while others demonstrate great pride in their faith.
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Tetzaveh: Open Your Eyes
A personal story about a blind woman who rediscovered her Judaism and the great miracle that occurred afterwards.
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The Universal Message of Rosh Hashanah
The universal message of Rosh Hashanah is that we all need to hear the sounds of our own souls. Read this conversation with Rabbi Simon Jacobson.
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A Blast in Three Dimensions
The meaning of the shofar blasts: the sounding of the shofar is more than a commandment—it is also a vehicle for repentence.
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