Shows
Mussar HaTorahAcharei Mos - Kedoshim 5785 - Sacred Boundaries, Divine LoveWhy are the Torah's revolutionary commands to love your neighbor and the stranger found alongside laws about not mixing different seeds or wearing garments of mixed materials? In this episode of Mussar HaTorah, we explore Rabbi Jonathan Sacks' profound insight into "the priestly moral imagination" that underlies Parshat Kedoshim. Discover how seemingly unrelated laws reflect a coherent ethical vision that begins with respecting divine boundaries and culminates in recognizing the image of God in every human being. Join us for "Sacred Boundaries, Divine Love" – a fresh perspective on what it truly means to be holy. This is...2025-05-0707 min
Mussar HaTorahTazria-Metzorah 5785 - The Power of ContemplationHave you ever wondered why knowing something intellectually isn't the same as truly understanding it? Join us as we explore a powerful Midrash about a kohen who was about to leave his family for a livelihood elsewhere, and how a profound conversation with his wife revealed a deep spiritual insight. Through the lens of Rav Henoch Liebowitz's teachings, we'll uncover how we can transform mere knowledge into life-changing wisdom and learn why sometimes the most important truths are the ones we overlook right in front of us. This is a public episode. If you would like...2025-04-3004 min
Mussar HaTorahShemini 5785 - The Limits of HumilityIn this week's episode of Mussar HaTorah, we explore a fascinating tension in Parshat Shemini when Aharon hesitates to approach the altar. Through the penetrating insights of Rav Shlomo Wolbe, we discover when extreme humility becomes an obstacle to divine service. Join us as we unpack the powerful story of Rabbi Yechezkel Abramsky in a British courtroom and learn that true humility isn't thinking less of yourself—it's thinking of yourself less. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.co2025-04-2306 min
Mussar HaTorahPekudei 5785 - Every Nail MattersWhat makes something truly holy, and why was the original Mishkan never destroyed while both Temples fell? In this episode, we explore the Sforno's profound insight that perfect sanctity creates eternal endurance. We'll examine why every person involved in building sacred spaces matters, why the materials and methods used have spiritual consequences, and how even one compromised element can affect the holiness of our institutions. Drawing on examples from Rav Chiya's extraordinary dedication to pure Torah teaching and wisdom from the Vilna Gaon, we offer practical guidance for maintaining unblemished kedusha in our shuls, yeshivas, and homes. Discover why...2025-03-2608 min
Mussar HaTorahVayakhel 5785 - Divine CrowdfundingJoin us this week on Mussar HaTorah for our episode "Divine Crowdfunding: How an Ancient Fundraiser Changed Judaism Forever," where we explore history's first viral giving campaign that was so successful Moses had to ask people to stop donating! Drawing on Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks' brilliant insights, we uncover how the building of the Mishkan revolutionized religious practice by democratizing holiness and inviting everyone—regardless of status or gender—to become partners in creating sacred space. Discover why this 3,000-year-old story of communal enthusiasm and creative partnership isn't just ancient history, but a blueprint for meaningful spiritual life today. List...2025-03-1606 min
Mussar HaTorahPurim 5785 - The Hidden HandIn this illuminating episode of Mussar HaTorah, we uncover the profound mystery at the heart of Purim—a story where Hashem's name is never mentioned, yet divine providence shapes every twist and turn. Join us as we explore how the "hidden hand" in Megillat Esther teaches us to recognize Hashem's guidance in our own lives, especially during times when the divine presence feels distant or obscured. Drawing wisdom from the Talmud, Maharal, Rabbi Soloveitchik, and other Jewish sages, we'll discover how the seemingly random "coincidences" that saved the Jewish people reveal a pattern of purpose and protection. Whether you're fe...2025-03-1005 min
Mussar HaTorahKi Sisa 5785 - The Breaking PointWhy did Moshe really break the Tablets of the Law? In this illuminating episode of Mussar HaTorah, we explore a profound insight from Rav Sholom Schwadron (who heard it from Rav Moshe Mordechai Epstein, Rosh Yeshiva of Chevron) that challenges our traditional understanding of this dramatic moment: It wasn't merely the creation of the Golden Calf that provoked Moshe's response, but rather witnessing the people's celebration around it—a distinction supported by the Ramban's commentary in Devarim 9:17. This subtle yet powerful shift in perspective reveals timeless wisdom about the true nature of spiritual decline, showing us that our joyful em...2025-03-0907 min
Mussar HaTorahTetzaveh 5785 - Illuminating DignityIn this illuminating episode of Mussar Hatorah, we explore a profound lesson hidden within the mitzvah of lighting the Menorah. Why would the Creator of light need humans to illuminate His sanctuary? Through a beautiful Midrash from Shemos Rabbah about a blind man and his friend, we discover Hashem's masterclass in perfect chesed—one that preserves human dignity rather than creating indebtedness. Join us as we uncover how true kindness often means allowing others to give back, and learn practical wisdom from Rav Wolbe, Rav Yerucham Levovitz, and the Chofetz Chaim on performing chesed in a way that elevates bo...2025-03-0204 min
Mussar HaTorahTrumah 5785 - When Wanting is DoingCan you earn a spiritual reward for mitzvos you can't actually perform? Through a fascinating detail in the Torah's description of the Aron Hakodesh, we discover how our sincere desires to serve Hashem can elevate us in unexpected ways. Join us as we explore what the Ramban, Rav Henoch Liebowitz, and the Gemara teach us about the hidden power of spiritual yearning, and learn why we should never disqualify ourselves from any mitzvah - even those that seem beyond our reach.In this episode of Mussar HaTorah, we'll uncover practical guidance for maintaining religious enthusiasm despite our...2025-02-2505 min
Mussar HaTorahMishpatim 5785 - Civil Laws, Divine GrowthWhy did these particular laws need to be given at Sinai? I mean, we're talking about basic civil laws here. Every ancient civilization had their legal codes. The Babylonians had Hammurabi's Code. The Romans had their famous legal system. So what makes these Torah laws so special that they need to be given alongside the Ten Commandments? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com2025-02-1905 min
HORROR 101 with Dr. ACHITCHCOCK’S PSYCHO LEGACY: FROM SHOWER SCENE TO BATES MOTELPSYCHO (1960) d. Alfred Hitchcock (USA) PSYCHO II (1983) d. Richard Franklin (USA) PSYCHO III (1986) d. Anthony Perkins (USA) PSYCHO IV: THE BEGINNING (1990) d. Mick Garris (USA) PSYCHO (1998) d. Gus Van Sant (USA) Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho is not just a film; it’s an institution in the world of cinema, one that redefined the horror genre forever. Based on Robert Bloch’s 1959 novel, audiences were introduced to Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins), a seemingly mild-mannered motel owner with a dark and twisted secret. The film's groundbreaking narrative, shocking twists, and chilling atmosphere have influenced film...2025-02-141h 40
Mussar HaTorahBeshalach 5785 - The Human ParadoxIn Or HaTzafun, the Alter points to Parshas Beshalach as perhaps the clearest illustration of this dynamic. Within the same parsha, we see Bnei Yisrael reach the highest heights of prophecy at Krias Yam Suf, declaring "זה קלי ואנוהו" - "This is my God and I will glorify Him." The Mechilta tells us their level of perception exceeded that of Yechezkel's prophecy of the Divine Chariot.Yet, these same people shortly after crossing Yam Suf complain about water, then about food, leading the Alter to ask: How can we understand this seemingly impossible contradiction? This is a public epis...2025-02-0505 min
Mussar HaTorahBo 5785 - New Moon, New YouMost people naturally think of the dramatic final plagues in Egypt when considering Parshas Bo and our people's extraordinary exodus. In the middle of all the excitement lies something that might seem rather technical at first glance - the very first mitzvah given to the Jewish people as a nation: Kiddush HaChodesh, the sanctification of the new moon.You might ask yourself - of all the 613 mitzvos, why choose this one first? Rabbi Sacks offers us a profound insight speaking directly to our journey of personal growth and character development. This is a public...2025-01-2904 min
Mussar HaTorahVa'era 5785 - Matters of the HeartPharaoh's reaction to the plagues is extremely difficult to understand. He suffered through a week with blood instead of water, a week with frogs infesting every place you could imagine (and some we can't imagine!)., and then a week with lice everywhere. He was steadfast and for a "reward" had a week of wild animals attacking his kingdom and then a week of all the livestock dying. After all of these plagues that Hashem brought on Pharoah, he again ignored the pain and suffering and hardened his heart again. How can this be logically understood? 2025-01-2204 min
Mussar HaTorahShemos 5785 - The Gift of LifeThe Gemara in Sotah (11a) tells us Pharoah had 3 advisors Billam, Iyov, and Yisro. He asked them about what to do with Beni Yisroel's exponential growth. Billam said to kill them and he was ultimately killed for that suggestion. Iyov said nothing and he was giving tremendous troubles in his life. Yisro said they should be saved and was rewarded to have decedents as members of Sanhedrin. It seems that the punishment Iyov received was worse than the punishment Billam received. All Iyov did was be quiet. Why should he have received a stricter punishment than the...2025-01-1505 min
Mussar HaTorahVayechi 5785 - The Secret Power of Added AwarenessWelcome to the Mussar haTorah podcast for Parshas VaYechi. Join us as we explore the weekly Parsha, uncovering valuable insights and striving to become the best versions of ourselves through Mussar teachings.Yaakov on his deathbed asked Yosef to swear that he would not bury him in Egypt but he should take Yaakov's remains to Eretz Yisroel and be buried there. The Ramban asks why did Yaakov insist that Yosef swear to bury him in Eretz Yisroel even when he promised to fulfill this request? We are talking about Yosef, who was Yaakov's favorite son...2025-01-0805 min
HORROR 101 with Dr. ACONIBABA & KWAIDAN (1964): Celebrating Japan's CLASSIC Horror Cinema!!ONIBABA (1964) d. Kaneto Shindo (Japan) KWAIDAN (1964) d. Masaki Kobayashi (Japan) Tonight, we discuss the 1964 Japanese horror classics Onibaba and Kwaidan, exploring their reflections of post-war Japanese society, folklore, and complex themes of fear and morality. Set in feudal Japan, Onibaba sees two women surviving by killing samurai and selling their armor. Blending psychological terror, supernatural elements, and an ominous, demonic mask, writer/director Kaneto Shindo (Kuroneko) uses stark black-and-white cinematography to examine the horrifying consequences of betrayal, lust, and murder. In Kwaidan, director Masaki Kobayashi (Hara-Kiri) presents four traditional ghost stories based o...2025-01-031h 08
Mussar HaTorahYaYigash 5785 - When Plan B is Plan AWelcome to the Mussar haTorah podcast for Parshas Vayigash. Join us as we explore the weekly Parsha, uncovering valuable insights and striving to become the best versions of ourselves through Mussar teachings.In this week's parsha, Yosef reveals himself to his brothers. During this revelation he says the following:וְעַתָּ֗ה לֹֽא־אַתֶּ֞ם שְׁלַחְתֶּ֤ם אֹתִי֙ הֵ֔נָּה כִּ֖י הָאֱלֹהִ֑ים וַיְשִׂימֵ֨נִֽי לְאָ֜ב לְפַרְעֹ֗ה וּלְאָדוֹן֙ לְכׇל־בֵּית֔וֹ וּמֹשֵׁ֖ל בְּכׇל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם׃Now [then] it was not you that sent me here, but [it was from before] Elohim; and He has made me as a father to Pharaoh, and master of all [the people of] his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt.Yosef recognized that the entire sequence of events starting from when his father gave him the special coat up until (and through) this point was a p...2025-01-0105 min
Mussar HaTorahMiketz 5785 - The Ultimate Power MovePicture this: Yosef, after years in an Egyptian prison, finally stands before Pharaoh. This could be his moment of triumph, his chance to shine. Pharaoh says, "I've heard you can interpret dreams."Now, imagine being in Yosef's shoes. After years of suffering, finally a chance at freedom. What would you say? But Yosef's response is remarkable. He immediately says: "Biladai - It's not through me. Elokim yaaneh es shalom Pharaoh - God will provide Pharaoh's welfare."The Alter of Kelm in Chochmas HaMussar points out something incredible here. Despite everything Yosef endured - the pit...2024-12-2505 min
Mussar HaTorahVaYeshev 5785 - More Than WordsIn this week's parsha, we encounter a fascinating moment that reveals profound insights into genuine religious consciousness. The Torah tells us that when Yosef was sold as a slave to Potifar, something remarkable happened: "וַיַּרְא אֲדֹנָיו כִּי ה' אִתּוֹ" - "his master saw that Hashem was with him."Rav Shlomo Wolbe raises an intriguing question that cuts to the heart of our religious practice. What made Yosef so exceptional? After all, don't we also say "Baruch Hashem" and "Im Yirtzeh Hashem" throughout our day? Haven't we too reached the level of "Shem Shamayim shagur b'fiv" - having Heaven's name constantly on our lips?The answer...2024-12-1806 min
Mussar HaTorahVaYishlach 5785 - Wrestling with TorahWelcome to the mussar haTorah podcasts for Parshas VaYishlach. Join us as we explore the weekly Parsha, uncovering valuable insights and striving to become the best versions of ourselves through Mussar teachings. The parsha has the famous incident of Yaakov wrestling with the "stranger". Rav Shmuel Beirnbaum z'l asks a question I never considered. Why didn't this "stranger" get into any fights with Avraham or Yitzchok yet have one with Yaakov?Rav Shmuel answers we need to look at what each of the Avos represented. Avraham represents chesed obviously because of all of the chesed...2024-12-1204 min
Mussar HaTorahVayetze 5785 - The Hidden KindnessThe medrash tells us on the night Rachel was supposed to be married to Yaakov Avenu, her father Lavan switched her sister Leah with Rachel at the last moment. This was something Yaakov anticipated and had given Rachel signs to identify herself. Rachel, sensing that Leah would be embarrassed, gave the signs to Leah so there would be no embarrassment.Later on in the pasha we see the story with Rachel, Leah, and the dudaim. When Rachel, who is at this point childless, asks Leah for the dudiam Reuven had picked for her Leah replies: תֹּ֣אמֶר לָ֗הּ הַמְעַט֙ קַחְתֵּ֣ךְ אֶת־אִישִׁ֔י וְלָקַ֕חַת גַּ֥ם אֶת־דּוּדָאֵ֖י בְּנִ֑י וַתֹּ֣אמֶר רָחֵ֗ל לָכֵן֙ יִשְׁכַּ֤ב עִמָּךְ֙ הַלַּ֔יְלָה תַּ֖חַת דּוּדָאֵ֥י בְנֵֽךְ׃She (Leah) said to her, Isn’t it enough that you took my husband? Would you also take my son’s jasmine flowers? Although Leah gives the dudiam...2024-12-0405 min
Mussar HaTorahToldos 5785 - The Price of Empathy> כִּשְׁמֹ֤עַ עֵשָׂו֙ אֶת־דִּבְרֵ֣י אָבִ֔יו וַיִּצְעַ֣ק צְעָקָ֔ה גְּדֹלָ֥ה וּמָרָ֖ה עַד־מְאֹ֑ד וַיֹּ֣אמֶר לְאָבִ֔יו בָּרְכֵ֥נִי גַם־אָ֖נִי אָבִֽי׃> When Eisov heard his father’s words, he wailed a most loud and bitter cry, and he said to his father, Bless me too, my father.> (Berashis 27:34)Esav's crying was not the only expression of grief in Tanach. A few centuries later Moredchai does the same when he discovers the decree that Haman makes to destroy the Jews. (Esther 4:1). Chazal in Berashis Rabbah says the similarity of language shows Haman's decree was in retribution for Yaakov's actions toward Esav in taking Yitzchak's bracha. Rav Henoch Leibowitz asks, what exactly did Yaakov do wrong? He had rightfully bought the bracha from Esav. He wasn't stealing from Esav, he was taking what legally belonged to him. 2024-11-2805 min
Mussar HaTorahChayei Sarah - The Sacred InstinctIn the discussion between Eliezer and Rivkah, Eliezer asks Rivkah if there is a place to sleep overnight in her father's house. Rivkah replies that there is a place to stay. Rashi explains Rivkah is saying there is a place to stay many nights. When Lavan hears about Eliezer visiting he says "Why should you stand outside?" Onkelos understands the word "makom" as "a kosher place". Meaning there was space and proper conditions to sleep overnight. Avos D'Rabi Nosson records that just as the early Tzadikkim were pious, so were their animals. The camels of Avraham didn't...2024-11-1906 min
Mussar HaTorahVayeira 5785 - Humble but Not HiddenThis week the podcast is dedicated as refuah shelama for Meir Chaim ben Esther.In the Parsha we have the interesting scene when Avraham argues with Hashem regarding the fate of Sedom. Avraham (18:27) says the following:> Avraham replied and said, "Behold, please, I have resolved to speak to my Master, though I am but dust and ashes. Rashi points out that the use of the words "dust and ashes" refers to two situations that Avraham found himself in; first with rescuing Lot (dust because if not for Hashem he would have been turned into...2024-11-1303 min
Mussar HaTorahLech Lecha 5785 - The Second First StepOn Sunday, I was looking through some files and found the following dvar torah from a mailing list I have since joined called Mussar Moment. I read it again and still find it very powerful and I wanted to share it with you."Lech Licha,” Avrohom Avinu's journey upon Hashem's request, was one of our forefather's ten tests. Hashem promised Avrohom much reward for this action. The challenge of this situation seemed to involve the pain of leaving his family and hometown. However, the Ramban learns that there was more to it.The Ramban (Lech Li...2024-11-0504 min
HORROR 101 with Dr. ACLET SLEEPING CORPSES LIE (1974): ZOMBIES FROM SPAIN!!!LET SLEEPING CORPSES LIE (aka THE LIVING DEAD AT MANCHESTER MORGUE) (1974)d. Jorge Grau (Spain/Italy) A hidden gem overshadowed by the myriad flesh-eating flicks that followed in its wake, director Jorge Grau took his given assignment of creating a spiritual sequel to George A. Romero's Night of the Living Dead and conjured a minor classic all its own. Blending social commentary (environmentalism) with shocking moments of jaw-dropping gore, Let Sleeping Corpses Lie, The Living Dead at Manchester Morgue (or whatever title you happen to discover it under) remains a worthy entry in the undead canon. 2024-11-021h 07
Mussar HaTorahNoach 5785 - The Divine RustleThe first pasuk of the parsha says:> אֵ֚לֶּה תּוֹלְדֹ֣ת נֹ֔חַ נֹ֗חַ אִ֥ישׁ צַדִּ֛יק תָּמִ֥ים הָיָ֖ה בְּדֹֽרֹתָ֑יו אֶת־הָֽאֱלֹהִ֖ים הִֽתְהַלֶּךְ־נֹֽחַ׃> This is the line of Noah.—Noah was a righteous man; he was blameless in his age; Noah walked with God.—There are three different ways the Rishonim use to explain what the Torah means by *Noah walking with Hashem*. One of the three is Targum who explains this means Noah walked in fear of Hashem and this was Noah exceptional quality was his *Yiras Shamayim* - fear of heaven. Rav Yisroel Meir Druck, shilta, explains this quality in the following manner. The Rema explains that fear of heaven is an overarching principle of the Torah and this ideal should be in everythin...2024-10-3004 min
Mussar HaTorahBerashis 5785 - Chavah's LessonThe first parsha of the Torah says (in perek 3 pasuk 3):וּמִפְּרִ֣י הָעֵץ֮ אֲשֶׁ֣ר בְּתוֹךְ־הַגָּן֒ אָמַ֣ר אֱלֹהִ֗ים לֹ֤א תֹֽאכְלוּ֙ מִמֶּ֔נּוּ וְלֹ֥א תִגְּע֖וּ בּ֑וֹ פֶּן־תְּמֻתֽוּן׃But of the fruit of the tree that is in the middle of the Garden, Elohim said, You shall not eat from it, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.Rashi comments that Chavah added extra restrictions to what Hashem commanded and this additional "chumrah" - stringency - caused Chavah to sin (the source of this Berashis Rabbah). The snake disproved Chavah's chumrah by pushing her until she touched the tree and nothing happened to her as a result of touching the tree. The snake told Chavah that just like touching the tree had no consequences, eating from the tree would have t...2024-10-2103 min
Mussar HaTorahNetzavim-Vayelich 5784 - Beyond the SurfaceWelcome to the Mussar HaTorah Podcast for Parshas Netzavim-Vayelich. Join us as we explore the weekly Parsha, uncovering valuable insights and striving to become the best versions of ourselves through Mussar teachings.In this week's double parsha, Hashem tells Beni Yisroel of a time when they will be exiled and while they are there they will "call to mind". The Sforno comments that this "calling to mind" is not just a way of remembering past events. Rather it is a deep introspection by every Jew into their own subconscious. This self-reflection in needed to determine the motivations...2024-09-2503 min
Mussar HaTorahKi Savo 5784 - Visualizing FaithWelcome to the Mussar HaTorah Podcast for Parshas Ki Savo. Join us as we explore the weekly Parsha, uncovering valuable insights and striving to become the best versions of ourselves through Mussar teachings.In the parsha, Moshe says "הַסְכֵּ֤ת ׀ וּשְׁמַע֙ יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל הַיּ֤וֹם הַזֶּה֙ נִהְיֵ֣יתָֽ לְעָ֔ם לַיהֹוָ֖ה אֱלֹהֶֽיךָ׃". This translates to "Keep silence and listen, Israel. This day you have become the people of Hashem your God." The word הַסְכֵּ֤ת can also mean imagine and can be understood as contemplate. The Seforno explains that when you picture this and understand it, you will heed Hashem's voice.Rav Shlomo Wolbe explains the Sefarno to be telling us we should picture Torah concepts in our mons, which can help us fulfill the mitzvos.For examp...2024-09-1904 min
Spray Foam Mafia: Toolbox Talks on SafetyPodcast #5 Chemical Safety Part 2: Maximizing Spray Foam Performance-Preconditioning, Equipment Essentials, and Industry Collaboration with Aaron Carden Energy Fox SolutionsSend us your Questions for Jeremiah and DanHow can a few affordable tools transform your spray foam insulation projects? Join us with industry expert Aaron Carden of Energy Fox Solutions as we uncover the secrets to avoiding common pitfalls like poor yield and shrinking foam. In this episode, you'll gain practical insights into managing temperature and moisture, using essential tools like infrared thermometers and moisture meters to achieve superior results. Jeremiah emphasizes the critical importance of these basic investments and shares tips to ensure every contractor is well-prepped for success and safety.Don't miss...2024-09-1622 min
Mussar HaTorahKi Tatze 5784 - Judging the Present, Shaping the FutureWelcome to the Mussar HaTorah Podcast for Parshas Ki Tatze. Join us as we explore the weekly Parsha, uncovering valuable insights and striving to become the best versions of ourselves through Mussar teachings.At the beginning of the Parsha we have the interesting case of the Ben Sorer u'Moreh. Rashi comments that he is put to death because of what he will become. However, there is a rule we see in Maschta Rosh HaShana (16b) based on a drasha from Berashis 21 using the words "asher hu sham" that we only judge a person as how they are...2024-09-1103 minSpray Foam Mafia: Toolbox Talks on SafetyPodcast #4 Chemical Safety Part 1: Mastering Chemical Handling-Essential Tips for Foam Product Integrity and Safety with Aaron Carden from Energy Fox SolutionsSend us your Questions for Jeremiah and DanEver wondered how proper chemical handling can revolutionize your business operations and safety measures? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Aaron Carden, Chief Operating Officer of Energy Fox Solutions, as he shares his transformative journey from managing auto parts locations to steering the spray foam industry towards excellence. Aaron's insights paint a vivid picture of the evolution of Energy Fox Solutions and their unwavering commitment to maintaining optimal storage conditions for spray foam chemicals.Discover the intricacies of the foam products' journey from the manufacturing facility...2024-09-1028 min