Baal Shem Tov
A soul can come down into this world for seventy-eighty years just to do a favor for another.
Reb Israel Baal Shem was born on 18 Elul 5458 (1698) in a small Polish town. Little Israel was orphaned at the tender age of five. His father’s last words were, “Yisrolik, fear nothing save the Creator alone.” The little boy went on to become the greatest leader of his generation and the founder of Chassidism, placing particular emphasis on innocent service to the creator, divine providence, and the inner-dimensions of Torah. In 5520 (1760), on the first day of Shavuot, the holy Baal Shem Tov elevated his soul to its creator.
A Matter Of Perspective
There was never enough to eat in Reb Zusha’s home, and his family was beset with all sorts of afflictions and illnesses. Yet the man was forever good-humored and cheerful, and constantly expressing his gratitude to the Almighty for all His kindness.
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G-d Runs the World
The youngest of the Maggid’s disciples, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, then spoke. “If I were in G-d’s place,” said he, “I would run the world exactly as He does.”
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Personal Transformation
The Torah basis for personal transformation: You can and must use your past misdeeds for the sake of personal transformation. Essay by Rabbi Simon Jacobson.
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The Revelation: Stories of the Baal Shem Tov
Stories and teachings handed down from Rebbe to Rebbe beginning with the founder of Chassidism, Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov (1698-1760).
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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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Pesach: Do You Believe in Miracles
The Baal Shem Tov offers us a novel interpretation of a miracle, and in the process turns the entire concept on its head. We learn how each of us can recognize – and create – miracles in our lives.
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Shemot: I Am a Child and Believe
No matter how old you are, each of us has our inner child intact. Nothing can be healthier than getting – and staying – in touch with your child, with your own innocent essence, and allowing it to inform all your giluim, your defined experiences, expressiond and faculties.
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Nasoh: Balance
Understanding tiferet (balance) in Parshat Nasoh: balance between spirit & matter; body & soul; and love (chesed) & discipline (gevurah) in relationships.
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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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