Shows
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes291. Importance of Quoting One’s Sources**Throwback Episode** This class was given at the Bronsteyn Succah in 2011.2022-08-1042 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes101. Gratitude and Simcha on SukkosYahrtzeit Shiur in memory of Svetlana bas Yaakov in the Bronsteyn Succah. We embellish the insight of Rabbi Apelbaum about gratitude. The secret to happiness especially on Succos is gratitude and appreciation. See how Haman’s and Adam’s situations illustrates this idea.2020-10-0933 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes99. Vzos HaBracha - Completion of the Torah and Yom TovWe get into an involved Halachic discussion as to what portions we read on Simchas Torah. We also point out some thematic rationals as to why those portions are read at this particular time. We also speak about the study of Torah in terms of our responsibility to learn it. This is an annual Yartzeit Class in memory of my mother, Svetlana bas Yaakov.2020-09-3059 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes97. Taking Pills on Yom Kippur- -2020-09-2532 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes96. Ten Days of Teshuva - R' Yonason Eibshitz- -2020-09-2355 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes95. Rosh Hashana: Gratitude - an essential element.We discuss how the proper observance of Prayer, Shofar listening, and honoring one’s parents requires the attribute gratitude.2020-09-1732 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes94. Rosh Hashana - Holiness According Rabbi Shimon Shkop- -2020-09-1445 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes93. Rosh Hashana - Why Do We Blow The ShofarRosh Hashana episode.2020-09-1130 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes92. Vayeilech - Why Did Moshe Pass Away?- -2020-09-1044 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes91. Netzavim - How Do We Change The Way We Think?Throwback episode2020-09-0738 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes90. Ki Sovo - An Emergency LandingWe discuss what benefits we enjoy as a result of keeping Mitzvos. We also discuss the law regarding not interrupting during the silent prayer, Shemonei Esrei.2020-09-0337 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes89. Ki Savo - Do We Pay Ransom To Kidnappers?Throwback episode2020-08-3155 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes88. Ki Tzeitzei - What do the Mitzvos do for us?- throwback episode2020-08-2750 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes87. Ki Tzeitzei - Plastic Surgery in Jewish LawWe discuss:
- potential issues with plastic surgery, and in which circumstances it may be allowed
- how emotional pain and embarrassment hold weight in halacha
- in which cases one can perform blood letting on a parent, and why...
- proper application of "v'ahavta l'reiacha kamocha", and an interesting Rashi on this saying
- R' Moshe Feinstein's tshuva on cases involving cosmetic plastic surgery
- Chelkas Yaakov discusses different opinions on the potential danger involved in surgeries as a halachic consideration
- Ramban on the permission and mitzvah that doctors have to heal
- Potential reasons for the Tzitz E...2020-08-2453 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes86. Shoftim- Where is the Garden of Eden?We discuss details about the Garden of Eden. Is it a physical entity? Where is it located. What’s in it? Who goes there? Why? We also point out that one can be in the Garden of Eden in a figurative sense.2020-08-2051 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes85. Shoftim - Ohr HaChaim - How to Overcome the Yetzer HarahThe Ohr HaChaim explains how the Torah inspires us not to give up the fight against our inclinations. We also discuss how one should not settle for mediocrity. We then discuss how one should put their trust in God and not seek revelations of the future from nefarious sources.2020-08-1851 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes84. Re'eh - Are Fish with Worms Kosher?We discuss the philosophical underpinnings of keeping kosher. What is the reasoning behind the Mitzvah. How does it affect us? We also delineate the Jewish law regarding parasitic microbial insects found in fish. Do they compromise the kashrus of the fish. When? Why? What’s the crux of the issue? What’s the practical current practice according to the various Kashrus agencies?2020-08-1358 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes83. Re’eh - Can I Wear a Mezuza as a Necklace?-2020-08-1150 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes82. Eikev - Ohr HaChaim: Hashem is our Father- -2020-08-0645 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes81. Eikev - In Case Of Child Abuse- -2020-08-0354 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes80. Tisha B'Av - Why We MournWe show that historically speaking we are now in the period of Mashiach’s coming. We explain why the Temple was destroyed. We detail what is missing in our lives as a result of the destruction. We explain how the mechanism of mourning that is Tisha B’Av is designed to recapture what we are missing in our relationship with Hashem.2020-07-3040 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes79. Vaeschanan - The Universe From God's PerspectiveThrowback episode - audio quality will be low.2020-07-2752 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes78. Devarim - Dignity Thwarts RacismActing in a dignified manner is an attestation to one’s humanity as an individual. With such an attitude there’s no place to judge anyone based upon their race. The world was created for everyone.2020-07-2335 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes77. Devarim - Lack Of Moshe's Entry Into Israel And the 9th of AvWe reveal how God actuates reward and punishment. Even when meeting out a punishment a calculation is required to ensure that total eradication doesn’t ensue as a result. Therefore, for the good of the Jewish People Moshe was unable to enter the land of Israel.2020-07-2347 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes76. Maasei - Flattery Will Get You EverywhereFlattery is the essence of crookedness. We discuss what it means to be a straight person. The depth, beauty, and value of this attribute of Temmimus - purity. We cite sources and give examples of righteous people who exemplified this character trait.2020-07-2353 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes75. Matos - Immersing Food Utensils in the Mikvah- -2020-07-1356 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes74. Pinchas - Cruelty for a Good PurposeNo attribute is inherently good or bad. It depends on how it’s used. The is the reason Pinchas is lauded as one who was jealous on behalf of God.2020-07-0936 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes73. Pinchas - Discipline - The Key To SuccessLack of disciple can dismantle any semblance of order and plunge one’s life into chaos. Therefore, it’s important to maintain a vigilant adherence to even the smallest of beneficial habits or behaviors. We also discuss the reason the Torah charted Pinchas’ lineage to Aharon HaCohen.2020-07-0652 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes72. Chukas - Being a Good Person has ConsequencesNo Mitzvah goes unrewarded. Eventually, the ripple effect of a good deed comes to fruition. Therefore, it is important to be steadfast in our commitment to be good and never give up.2020-07-0243 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes71. Balak - Mental Illness in Jewish LawWe delineate the qualifications necessary for one to be a Prophet. Then we explain how Balak was able to achieve prophecy seemingly without qualification. Then we segue into the topic of Mental Illness in Halacha. We discuss such questions as: if one is mentally ill are they qualified to make financial decisions, effect a writ of divorce, or to participate in a minyan?2020-06-2956 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes70. Korach - Vending Machines on ShabbosWe analyze whether a Pidyon Haben can be performed on Shabbos or at least sent into motion beforehand. Then we apply the same reasoning to vending machines. Is ownership of a vending machine, that can be accessed on Shabbos, feasible? If so, can one own a site where payments are processed any time from anywhere?2020-06-2654 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes69. Korach- How to Convince Everyone OvernightWe explain how Korach was able to convince all the Jewish People to be on his side when clearly the facts were on Moshe’s. Then we relate this idea to today’s current crisis, where seemingly, there’s a disconnect between all the sides of the political spectrum and there’s no way to bridge the gap.2020-06-2649 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes68. Shelach- Are We Biased or Just Others?We discuss how it’s possible to identify if one is biased with their own opinion. We also focus on the perspective of the Be’or Yosef who explains that there were two paradigms of what was happening in Eretz Yisrael at the time the spies were there.2020-06-1853 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes67. Shelach - How Did The Spys Falter?We analyze the real motivations of the spies and others in the “meraglim” incident. Outside appearances may tell only part of the story.2020-06-1551 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes66. Behaloscha - Pray for Peace in the GovernmentWe discuss the importance of Government and Police from the Torah perspective. Why are they necessary. And, are people truly evil when left to their own devices?2020-06-1145 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes65. Behalsocha - ResurrectionWe explore how the Parsha hints to the reality of the Resurrection. Then we answer some curious questions about that time period. Will people recognize each other from their past? In which state will they be resurrected?2020-06-0849 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes64. Nasso - Who is Made in the Image of God?We discuss the concept of the Image of God according to Rabbi Chaim Voloziner. We then apply it to the current debate about race in this country.2020-06-0435 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes63. Shavuos - Eating Dairy on the HolidayWe list over 10 reasons why we eat dairy on Shavuos. Please excuse the technical difficulties at the end of the class.2020-06-0138 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes62. Shavuos - Risky BusinessWe answer the question of whether one is allowed to put themselves at risk to earn a livelyhood. During this pandemic one may contract the Corona Virus by going to work, reopening their restaurant or place of business. Are they allowed to take that risk to avoid financial ruin?2020-05-2832 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes61. Nasso - Priestly Blessings and Opening Car Doors on Shabbos- -2020-05-2558 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes60. Bamidbar - Risk Assessment During a PandemicWe discuss risk assessment during a pandemic. With the corona virus upon us it is important the be aware of some the issues involved regarding determining the risks to individuals and society before determining a course of action.2020-05-2147 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes59. Bamidbar - The Sense of God's CensusWe discuss the Jewish Law regarding counting people. When is it prohibited? Permissible? Under what circumstances? Then we present the reasonable underpinnings of this law. Kollel 5-12-102020-05-1849 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes58. Bechukosai - Torah the Default ActivityWe learn something of the words of the Ohr HaChaim on the first verse in Bechukosai. We specifically focus on the idea that Torah study should be the default activity in our lives.2020-05-1447 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes57. Lag B'omerWe outline the basic ideas behind the holiday of Lag Ba’Omer. We also present a novel approach to why there is such a big hoopla surrounding this Holiday according to the perspective of the Responsa of the Shem Aryeh.2020-05-1254 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes56. Behar - Israel is the best place to liveWe discuss the unique characteristic of the Land of Israel and why it engenders a more intimate relationship with God. At the same time, living in our land isn’t an absolution from other Mitzvos.2020-05-1152 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes55. Emor - True CommitmentThe message of the Jewish Holidays is the Sanctification of God’s name. That requires true commitment. We look at this brilliant insight of Rabbi Shwab’s on this week’s Parsha.2020-05-0729 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes54. Emor - Sanctification of God's Name and the Great EscapeWe look at the fundamentally ethical and conceptual aspects of the mitzvah of the Santification of God’s name. We then apply it to some halachic considerations. For example, was R’ Elchanan Wasserman, of blessed memory, justified in leaving the safety of the United States, during WW2, to come to Europe to comfort his students knowing full well that he would be murdered by the Nazis?2020-05-0452 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes53. Achrei Mos - Car Roof Damage at a FuneralWe examine the reason why the death of the Righteous is an atonement for the Jewish People. We also relate a halachic question about a fellow who was at a heavily attended funeral. Then he climbed on a roof of a car to save himself from being trampled. Then the roof collapsed. Is he liable for damages?2020-04-3030 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes52. Kedoshim - Mainstays of Societal Success- - -2020-04-3051 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes51. Achrei Mos - Stages of Child Development and Bar MitzvahThe Torah and it’s mitzvos is a way of life. Also, it’s the passageway to the next world. Therefore, all are responsible to engage in the Mitzvos. We discuss the different levels of maturity & responsibility that young people have towards those Mitzvos as they grow up. Phx Kollel 4-29-20092020-04-2751 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes50. Tazria - Order out of ChaosBilvavi Mishkan Avne’s perspective of how the mitzvah of circumcision represents order that is born out of chaos.2020-04-2327 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes49. Tazria-Metzora - Tzoras -- Is It Disease or Supernatural?**Throwback episode** We survey the major literature of opinions regarding Tzoras. Was it supernatural or physical? Why did it happen? Was it contagious? Does it still happen today? In what form? What is the cure?2020-04-2051 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes48. Shemini - the Miraculous Nature of the Anointing Oil- Shemini -2020-04-1848 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes47. Can I Count the Omer or Do a Mitzvah in My DreamsWe share an insight into the Parsha from R’ Tzadok HaCohen. A perception that he gained in his sleep during a dream. Then we discuss dreams in Halacha. Can one perform Mitzvos while they are dreaming? Is one liable if they damage property while they sleepwalk?2020-04-1352 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes46. Pesach - Hagaddah Insights 2-2020-04-1351 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes45. Checking and Cleaning for ChometzHalacha of Pesach2020-04-0655 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes44. Pesach - Haggadah Insights 1Pesach2020-04-0655 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes43. Tzav - Fear Can Be LethalFear can be lethal. We contend that one shouldn’t be afraid during a pandemic as we discussed in episode #38. One of the ways to engender confidence and calmness is through gratitude which is an obligation in this week’s Parsha.2020-04-0337 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes42. Pesach - True FreedomPre-Pesach Zoom drasha for the Ohr HaTorah Congregation of Phoenix. We discuss the depth of the well known theme of Pesach- that we are free and royalty. This idea is of consequence on both a micro and macro level. Freedom needs acquisition. One who is free isn't as free as one who has earned freedom.2020-04-0137 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes41. Tzav - A Pandemic is DangerousOur existence is miraculous and not a given no matter what situation we find ourselves in. Nevertheless, it’s incumbent upon us to be more cautious and prudent during a pandemic such as this coronavirus.2020-03-2925 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes40. Vayikra - What is Stealing?**Throwback Episode**2020-03-2739 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes39. Ohr Hachaim on Vayikra - Sacrifices and Adam's SinWe read the commentary of the Ohr HaChaim HaKodesh’s perspective on the first Man’s sin. He purports the idea that it was accidental. In light of that perspective he outlines the resulting consequences. We also discuss the dynamic between our infallibility and free-will.2020-03-2338 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes38. Coronavirus - Proper Mental Approach with TorahIn the midst of the Coronavirus Pandemic we share some words of encouragement and learning. The proper belief in God is trust that nothing is accidental. We are in His hands. The only requirement expected of us is that which is within our purview. People aren’t held accountable for elements that aren’t in their control.2020-03-1934 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes37. Vayakhel - Knowledge is the Key to RedemptionPossession of knowledge is primary to many key factors such as the final redemption. Within the context of the Slonimer Rebbe’s analysis in his Nesivos Sholom we discuss the only true and worthwhile acquisition; knowledge. We examine how this idea is borne out of this week’s Parsha.2020-03-1653 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes36. Ki Sisa - Helicopter Touring Over the Temple MountWe discuss if the Temple Mount has sanctity in the absence of the Beis Hamikdash. As a ramification of this issue, what is the contemporary halachik practice? What is the status of the airspace of the Temple Mount? Can one fly over this space?2020-03-1252 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes35. Purim and Self-driving VehiclesA speech I gave at our Purim Seudah. Lessons to be learned from the Purim story that have ramifications to today’s advanced technologies. Can a programmer write an algorithm that will alter an autonomous vehicle’s trajectory to kill one person with the express purpose of saving another 20?2020-03-1114 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes34. Tzaveh - How Many Shabbos CandlesThrowback episode-What is the source of the obligation to light candles on Friday evening and Yom Tov? How many should we light? What happens if we forget? Haven’t done it in many years? What’s the reason we do it? We answer all of these questions in this episode.2020-03-0955 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes33. Purim - The Mitzvah to Become IntoxicatedThrowback episode- We frame the proper balance that we should keep in fulfilling the mitzvah of drinking on Purim. Also, we outline its precise laws and customs. In addition we discuss its philosophical and ethical underpinnings.2020-03-0953 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes32. Purim - Living InspiredThe secret of doing things for their own sake; taking advantage of inspiring moments. Also, when Hamam saw that the Jewish People were living inspired on the presumption of the Temple being built in the near future, he made a stunning admission- that he himself would be defeated.2020-03-0544 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes31. Purim - Amalek's FacadeThere are two parallel but also intertwined Universes; One of coincidence and the other of Providence. One of reality and one of inexistence. The mitzvah of blotting out Amalek is to embrace reality and to extinguish their facade where there’s only cause & effect with God.2020-03-0150 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes30. Teruma - Living in an Opposite ExistenceThings aren’t as they seem. Sometimes we ascribe importance to vacuous values. Focusing on what truly matters may be counterintuitive. But, upon closer observation we’re able to see the truth.2020-02-2747 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes29. Teruma - $800 left in the Western Wall - Who Should Keep It?If one discovers money in the Western Wall can they keep it? The sources for the obligation to contribute Tzedakah & to the shul. Also, the binding nature of one’s intentions when they make a monetary commitment to an institution. Please Note: This is a throwback episode. As such, the audio quality isn't to the standard of more recent episodes.2020-02-2754 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes28. Teruma - Women’s MinyanDelve into the source material for the requirement to have a minyan. Be informed of the issues to understand opinions surrounding this query.2020-02-2453 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes27. Mishpatim- Knowing Malevolence is Knowing Good.The Alter of Nevardik’s perspective on the story of Nachim Ish Gam Zu recorded in Taanis (21A) and the minuscule malevolence he discovered in his heart specifically through his actions.2020-02-2053 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes26. Mishpatim - Performing a Medical Procedure on One's FatherAn in-depth lecture of Jewish law discussing the circumstances under which a son or daughter can medically treat their parents with invasive procedures. Please note: This is a throwback episode so the audio quality is lower than more recent recordings.2020-02-171h 03
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes25. Yisro - Morphine to Hasten Death?Halachic decision of Rabbi Yitzchok Zilberstein regarding a person who was suffering intractable pain caused by advanced lung cancer. Was it permissible to administer a dose of morphine that may accelerate his death?2020-02-1350 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes24. Yisro - Can I say Kiddush after Havdalah?We discuss Jewish Law regarding Kiddish and Havdala, sources for their requirements, and priority placement during the Shabbos.2020-02-1039 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes23. Beshalach - Orchestration of ProvidenceThe ends never justify the means because they aren’t really means. They’re the perceived means to ends that are the will of God.2020-02-0651 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes22. Beshalach - Can Jewish Law Save Lives?Reality as we know it is a materialization of the Torah. A counterintuitive perspective that can shift our paradigm of the way we think about things.2020-02-0351 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes21. Bo - Do we have alternative futures?Is a predetermined decree ironclad in terms of the fact that it can’t change? Was Pharaoh wrong about the evil that saw overshadowing the Jewish People?2020-01-3048 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes20. Bo - What do Miracles Prove Anyway?How do we know that Moshe’s prophecy is true? How do miracles influence our beliefs? We discuss the perspective of Rabbi Yosef Albo in his work, Sefer HaIkkurim, on these issues.2020-01-2753 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes19. Vaeira - IndependenceA person with independence & self-sufficiency is the kind of human being that Hashem intended us to be. This is demonstrative of being truly alive and vibrant.2020-01-2732 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes18. Vaeira - A Frog's Kiddush HashemSanctification of God’s name means that the Universe functions in accordance with its programming. Humans have a choice to mimic the Universe or spurn God’s will. This is the lesson of the frog plague.2020-01-2448 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes17. Vaeira - The Efficacy of Prayer on Behalf of OthersGeneral definition of prayer.
The power of prayer when its on behalf of others.
Can one carry a mezuzah as a protection from danger?
Please note: This is a throwback episode and the recoding quality is lower than more recent classes.2020-01-2057 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes16. Shemos - Humility as a result of knowledgeHumility isn’t a choice of behavior, but a consequence of the knowledge of what one could be compared to who they are.2020-01-1644 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes15. Shemos - Being Happy for OthersWe explore how being happy for others requires a state of being called “good heart”. This is the real reason of Aharon’s happiness for Moshe’s appointment. Please note: This is a throwback episode and the audio quality is a bit grainy.2020-01-1351 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes14. Vayechi - Reciting a Bracha on one Thought to be DeadA case of mistaken identity and an interesting question of law. Learn how it relates to the real reason of why Yaakov Avinu didn’t reveal the future to his children.2020-01-0940 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes13. Vayechi - Good people do good thingsA purposeful life is a justified life. A life that’s justified is full of purposeful action. Not just paying lip-service to that life, which is hypocrisy.2020-01-0644 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes12. Vayigash - Age and Happiness Depend on AttitudeHow bemoaning and complaining about our circumstances in life can affect us physically. Our fears can become a self-fulfilling prophecy both in the negative and positive.2019-12-3044 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes11. Mikeitz - Chanukah and Forgetting TorahNote: This is a throwback episode. Due to it's age, it’s audio quality is not as high as most episodes, however content quality is as high as you've come to expect.2019-12-2641 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes10. Chanuka - Using Cigarettes in Your MenorahDiscover what the light of the menorah represents and why it's a fire. Also, delve into some halachic issues that have ramifications for using cigarettes instead of candles.2019-12-2344 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes9. Vayeishev - When Darkness DisappearsDark moments in life fashion our character. The only way to make the darkness disappear is with light.2019-12-2031 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes8. Vayeishev - Reading Faces!Reading people's faces is key to understanding them. This ability inspired Yosef to withstand a very difficult moment in his life.2019-12-1944 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes7. Vayeishev - Pondering Hatred and JealousyTogether with everyone in the class, ponder the familial dynamics of Yaakov’s family and their ramifications for our lives; hatred, jealousy, revenge, dispute and favoritism.2019-12-1651 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes6. Vayishlach - With Brothers Like ThatNot all villains wear capes. Yaakov's prayers to be saved from Esav's evil whether through violence or love.2019-12-1335 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes5. Vayishlach - The Face of a Jew and a PoliticianHow the religious parties in Israel can get more votes according to Rabbi Soloveitchik, and the necessity for change by living up to an ideal.2019-12-1341 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes4. Vayishlach - Anti SemitismThe origins of anti-semitism and why it's effects reverberate through history.2019-12-0950 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes3. Vayetzei - Leah’s IntrusionHow Leah inserted herself into a marriage in which she didn't belong, according to the perspective of the Shem MiShmuel.2019-12-0645 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes2. Vayetzei - What to do When One is AngryRiding the emotional wave that is anger and avoiding conflict escalation.2019-12-0246 min
Rabbi Yakov Bronsteyn - Parsha Classes1. Toldos - Can I Sell My Sins?Are the rewards and punishments for God's commandments commodities to be sold or bartered?2019-11-2953 min