Learning & Values

Recent and upcoming broadcasts from the previous and upcoming week of Jewish.TV's programming schedule.

This class analyzes an aspect of the weekly Torah portion or upcoming holiday. While providing a basic understanding of the subject matter, the lesson delves into its deeper and more complex dimensions with emphasis on the spiritual relevance to our daily lives. Inspiration for both the novice and advanced student.

Each week, Rabbi Mendel Kaplan will delve into that week's Torah reading to bring out a practical lesson for life and explain the Biblical sources for the customs, laws, practices and ethics of our people.

Rabbi Gordon shares inspirational Torah insights on the weekly Torah portion with practical life lessons.

A series of video classes that expound upon mystical themes from the classic Chassidic work of Tanya.

A fast and exciting tour of the structure, contents and flow of Tanya, the foundational text of the Chabad system of chassidism. Perfect for complete beginners and seasoned scholars alike.

This spiritual explanation of why it is so difficult for us to properly honor our parents offers insight into healing intergenerational trauma and coming to peace with issues picked up from one’s family of origin.

From the snoozed alarm clock to the big promotion, life is full of opportunities to watch the mundane turn sublime. This course invites you to tap into the spiritual wisdom of the most ancient religious text in the world: the Torah. Our weekly series will take you on a year-long journey towards discovering yourself, and unleashing the hidden potential within you. Join and turn your "good" into "great"!

The detailed laws and reasons for the Torah Reading Service in the synagogue.

Mystical secrets are discovered hidden in the words of David's songs to G-d.

A practical look at how to forgive people -- especially those closest to us -- after they have caused us harm.

Rabbi Simon Jacobson dispels various popular misconceptions about Jewish belief in Moshiach and clarifies some of the basic ways in which the advent of the Messianic Era is brought about.

System of Divinity, a kabbalistic masterpiece written by Rabbi Yehudah Chayyat (born in Spain, c.1450), provides us with a rare first person account of the Spanish expulsion of 1492 and the state of Sephardic Jews in a year that most people associate with the voyage of Columbus.

Discover the mystical understanding and timeless significance behind the very first sin of man: eating from the Tree of Knowledge.

In the beginning of time, G-d blows a soul into a body of clay and thus creates man. So, too, will it be at the end of time. Join Rabbi Kaplan as he expounds upon this wondrous fusion of body and soul.

One of the foundations of our faith is the belief that Moshiach may arrive at any moment. How do we develop a feeling that Moshiach's coming is imminent?

Learn an amazingly simple secret for healing yourself and all of your relationships this new year.

Rabbi Zohn presents the Jewish view on death, burial and the afterlife, and how to pragmatically prepare for it in the Jewish tradition.

This lecture is from a celebratory gathering commemorating the 19th of Kislev, the Chassidic holiday marking the liberation of Rabbi Schneur Zalman, the founder of Chabad Chassidism (Montreal, Canada - Dec. 6, 2009).

You may already know that the giving of the Torah -- which we celebrate on the holiday of Shavuot -- took place at Sinai. But what is Sinai? The Torah speaks of a wilderness called Sinai as well as a mountain by the same name. What is the difference between the desert and the mountain? And how does that shape our understanding of what happened there years ago?

A deeper look at three examples of the master/pupil relationship as depicted in three consecutive portions of the Torah.

A look at the three Haftorah portions read during the "Three Weeks" commemorating the destruction of the Holy Temple.

A deeper look at the seven comforting prophecies read each Shabbat from Tisha b'Av until Rosh HaShannah.

Insights and lessons on the parshah based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

How the cumulative effect of our positive actions results in the perfect world of Moshiach.

Study a variety of vibrant and topical subjects with scholarly teachers. These Torah classes are from a day of learning in Montreal, Canada dedicated to help bring peace to Israel on 8/3/2008.

How the simple sound of the ram’s horn on Rosh Hashanah represents a Jew’s heartfelt cry to G‑d.

A basic overview of the scriptural and Talmudic sources for the three-part structure of the Rosh Hashanah Musaf prayer, plus its deeper meaning as embodied by two chassidic parables.

An overview of some the unique customs associated with the holiday of Shavuot, along with their practical reasons and spiritual explanations.

A glimpse into the work of an expert scribe writing a mezuzah.

Born with cerebral palsy and confined to a wheelchair, Felicia Bowers has limited control over her body. She cannot speak and rather uses a retina-controlled device called Tobii to communicate. But the 27 year old from West Bloomfield is drawing incredible portraits that make people stop and stare. And she's doing it in a way no one ever expected – with her eyes!

Despite autism, Zalman Diskin celebrates his bar mitzvah at his parents Chabad center in Munich, Germany. His parents share the painful challenges of having an autistic child and their personal journey of heartbreak and frustration to faith and acceptance. Film credits: Paula Zimerman Targownik and Daniel Targownik

A son-in-law and grandson continue a western Massachusetts ‘shmurah matzah’ tradition begun by the late Chabad emissary Rabbi Dovid Edelman, a matzah delivery route that has stretched all the way to the White House’s Seder. Video produced and edited by Pearl Gabel.

Jewish Educational Media pulls back the curtain on the fascinating saga of the violation of Lubavitch’s sacred manuscripts and books—and their ultimate triumph. From the Rebbe’s earliest public references to the theft of Chabad’s treasured library, it was clear that this was a spiritual struggle over the movement’s very soul—as embodied in its holy writings—and even over the very definition of a rebbe. (Excerpt from the complete film)

Yishai Fleisher, an Israeli correspondent, goes to experience Lag BaOmer in Meron, the burial place of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai. Joining the hundreds of thousands participating, he documents it all on camera so you can feel as if you are there in person.

In the Beilis trial of 1913, false accusations of ritual murder were leveled against the Jewish people generally, and the chassidic movement specifically. This documentary vividly reconstructs the events as they unfolded, through a series of interviews with experts, alongside period photographs and press clippings.

Watch never-before-seen footage of exclusive interviwith some of the most distinguished names in Israel’s security

Some glimpses of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka's funeral and the Rebbe's observance of her shivah, as well as excerpts of the Rebbe speaking about the Rebbetzin in the days and years following her passing.

World renowned trombonist, Haim Avitsur, demonstrates his technique for sounding the ram's horn instrument known as a shofar.

Preparing for his yearly stint as a High Holidays "chazan," Cantor Aryeh Leib Hurwitz of Brooklyn talks about what it takes to pray for a congregation of a thousand.

Eyewitnesses share their personal stories of how Jews valiantly resisted the British ban on sounding the shofar at the Western Wall from 1930-1947.

Discover the different kinds of shofars used on Rosh Hashanah the world over and get an inside look into how they’re crafted.

See, hear, understand and taste the Shabbat experience. The presentation places one in a Shabbat wonderland, and shows how this is attainable for everyone. This video includes interviews with various Jewish personalities. A must for anyone venturing to take the first steps towards Shabbat observance.

The Jewish woman has a unique mission specific to her special qualities and sensitivities. The very future of the Jewish people depends on her success.

A slice of life from the holy city. Footage from various scenes around Jerusalem shot in 2011 and 2012.

A short video presentation on the life of the Rebbe.

G-d, who formed and created man and all that exists, shares His wisdom, understanding and knowledge with us through the Torah, enabling us to maximize our potential and fulfill our life's purpose.

One year ago, on April 16, 2007, amidst horror and heartbreak of the Virginia Tech Massacre, the courage of one man who gave his life to save his students awed and inspired people all over the world.

A community's visit to the resting place of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson of Lubavitch on his fifth yahrzeit, Tammuz 3, 5759—June 17, 1999

A glimpse into the life of Rabbi Gabi and Rivky Hotzberg—the Chabad emissaries to Mumbai, India.

Throughout Jewish history, through times serene and turbulent, the People of Israel looked to the Torah for guidance and stability. Only through steadfast adherence to Torah principles, - the Rebbe insisted - can Israel achieve true peace.

The Rebbe's message was as old as the Torah itself, yet his approach was as rousing as dawn. He urged each person, in personal and communal life, to never be satisfied with yesterday's achievements

Although today's world is a scary place, as evident from the attacks on the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, one good deed can tip the scales. In Waves, hear the Rebbe explain how each deed, however insignificant it may seem, is universally important.

A virtual tour across five continents

Meet Alan Veingrad. Offensive lineman. Green Bay Packer. Dallas Cowboy. Champion of Super Bowl XXVII.

Major General Doron Almog is a true Israeli hero, serving courageously in the IDF to protect his people. But even more inspiring is his devotion to helping those with special needs.

A "60 Minute" style documentary on kosher dietary laws and its impact on both body and soul

Starting from Moses, their first leader, the Jewish People have been led by individuals exhibiting an essential and unique quality: They were thoughtfully attuned to the distinct and disparate needs of each person in their flock. Throughout history, in times of triumph and adversity, this trait has shown to be distinctively present and in each of our leaders.

Noted scholars and experts in their fields share their knowledge at the Oxford University Chabad Society.

A live broadcast of the Siyum, the completion of the 8th unity Torah Scroll, where 304,805 men, women and children participated in acquiring one of the 304,805 letters in this special Sefer Torah. The celebration will feature special video presentations from Israel, entertainment, and music with popular Chassidic singer Shlomo Simcha. This Torah is in loving memory of Avremel Lieberman.

Powerful Torah tools for strengthening marital relations, fortifying emotional fidelity, refining communication skills and strengthening mutual respect and acceptance.

We’ve heard a lot about a match made in heaven, but what are the real ingredients for a healthy and happy marriage?

Joy, optimism and faith are integral to overcoming challenges in life. Discover how our perspectives actually create and shape our realities.

How the Jewish people, and particularly Jewish women, have been experts in maintaining our spiritual identity even in foreign soils.

The paradox: while G-d is absolutely One, He nevertheless has an overwhelming desire to engage in a relationship with mankind. Understanding this paradox is at the root of free choice and human responsibility, and is the key to healthy marriages that last a lifetime.

The son of a decorated German officer, Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger was forced at a young age to confront his father’s unbroken allegiance to the Nazis. His journey ultimately led him to convert to Judaism and serve in the Israel Defense Forces. (Filmed at Chabad of the Upper East Side, NYC)

Koby Mandell was just thirteen on May 8, 2001, when he and his friend cut school to go hiking. Their bodies were found the next day. The boys had been brutally stoned to death in a cave in the heart of the Judean desert. Koby’s mom, Sherri Mandell, shares her emotional story of hope and faith.

Speech is what defines us as human beings. How we speak determines the type of human beings that we are. This class demonstrates how to properly communicate feelings of need, hurt and criticism in a constructive and loving manner based on a five-step process according to Chassidic and Kabbalistic philosophy.

Educating one’s child is the focal point of being a mother or father. Learn how the Torah guides us in this most rewarding yet incredibly difficult task.

Is there a difference between Jews just "being" chosen as opposed to actually "knowing" that they were chosen?

Understanding the difference between “living” and “existing” helps us understand why it’s sometimes so hard to like the people you love.

Frumma Rosenberg-Gottlieb shares the story of her personal spiritual journey and speaks about how we can know when we've found what we're really looking for.

Author Doron Kornbluth, who spent over three years studying the subject, talks about the reasons some people choose cremation, and explains why throughout history Judaism and Jews have insisted on burial.

Frumma Rosenberg-Gottlieb discusses her background as a meditator, and how she sought an authentic contemplative tradition within Judaism. The session concludes with a practice meditation.

Rabbi Nissen Mangel was a 10-year-old child when he came to the Nazi death camp of Auschwitz. There he witnessed unspeakable atrocities, but he also witnessed amazing acts of faith. In this moving and powerful talk, Rabbi Mangel tells his firsthand account of what he saw. (Many viewers may find details described to be extremely disturbing. Viewer discretion advised.)

What are the key elements to maintaining a strong and loving bond with your spouse?

When may information be shared? When must it be kept private? An overview of the primary sources in Torah, Talmud and Jewish Law governing the rules of confidentiality and privacy.

Maimonides was not only the greatest Torah scholar of his generation, but one of its leading physicians. Maimonides wrote many treatises in how to take care of one's health. But what would Maimonides say about modern medical issues?

Rabbi Simon Jacobson shares his personal reflections on the teachings of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, on the occasion of the anniversary of his passing. (filmed at Chabad of Brooklyn Heights, 6/20/2012)

Professor Alan Dershowitz fields questions on diverse topics ranging from his relationship with the Lubavitcher Rebbe to whether or not international law would permit a preemptive strike against Iran. This Q&A session was filmed at the Chabad House in Miami Beach.

Thoughts on the 200th anniversary of the passing of Chabad's founder, the Alter Rebbe, R' Shneur Zalman of Liadi. What is Chabad? What did the Alter Rebbe accomplish? How can we apply his teachings today?

We may be entitled to our anger, but do we really want it? Practical advice for getting out of the resentment rut.

The first mitzvah given to the Jewish people was to sanctify time. Torah teaches us how to cherish time and make the best possible use of it, by being a “co-creator” who “makes” time for what is important.

Does G-d love us or does He need us? Does He care whether or not we do mitzvot? Is being vulnerable a weakness? Rabbi Friedman tackles these questions and more as he describes the Jewish view of an omnipotent G-d who asks us to serve Him.

The secret that the Torah shares with us about men and women is that they are not brought closer through physical attraction.

A short introduction to Vayikra, the third book of the Torah, which details the various offerings brought in the Holy Temple.

Tips for developing self-esteem, setting boundaries, and establishing morality and responsibility in our kids’ lives.

On the occasion of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s yahrtzeit, Rabbi Yossy Goldman shares the Rebbe’s unique vision of hope.

Watching the recent terror attacks and the grave danger to our fellow Jews in Israel, everyone is asking what can be done. Presented are practical things we can all do to help. Yes, we can make a real difference!

Throughout Jewish history, through times serene and turbulent, the People of Israel looked to the Torah for guidance and stability. Only through steadfast adherence to Torah principles, - the Rebbe insisted - can Israel achieve true peace.

The inside story of the Rebbe’s involvement in Israel’s security, as told by its defense and government leaders.

A slice of life from the holy city. Footage from various scenes around Jerusalem shot in 2011 and 2012.

Rabbi Mendel Kaplan headed a special delegation to Israel amidst the war in Gaza. He met with soldiers, parents that lost their children in battle, and communities in the south terrorized by rocket fire; and tells of his incredible trip.

From Jerusalem to Masada, join veteran tour guide Shalom Pollack on a wondrous journey through Israel, where the past, present and future all share the same space.

Learn more about Jerusalem, the holiest city in the world and the eternal capital of the Jewish people

Beer-Sheba is a biblical city located in Southern Israel. Both Abraham and Isaac experienced landmark events there. Learn more about Beer-Sheba.

Hebron, one of the four “holy cities” in Israel, lies at the center of Biblical Judea. Learn more about “The City of the Patriarchs.”

Shechem lies amidst the mountains of Shomron (Samaria). Very few locales have as rich a history as this four-thousand year old city. Learn more about Shechem.

Built along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, near seventeen natural hot springs, the northern Israeli city of Tiberias is known as the City of Water. Learn more about the city of Tiberius, another one of the four “Holy Cities” in Israel.

Safed is one of the four “Holy Cities,” and is well-known as a center for the study of Kabbalah, Jewish mysticism. Learn more about Safed.

Join Rabbi Mordechai Weiss as he tours sacred sites in the Holy Land, and discover their history and significance.

A short excerpt from the JEM video "Faithful & Fortified: The inside story of the Rebbe’s involvement in Israel’s security, as told by its defense and government leaders"

A critical analysis of Israeli statehood, Jewish identity and Middle East politics since 1948.

To the Jew, Israel is more than just a place. A Jew does not travel to Israel, but returns there.

“The Guardian of Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps” – at all times Jews are protected by G-d. But we are commanded to also take part in our own security.

Code of Jewish Law, Laws of Shabbos, Chapter 329: If non-Jews besiege a Jewish border town—whether in the Holy Land or in the Diaspora—stating that they come only to pilfer straw, Jews are obligated to arm themselves for war, even on Shabbos, because such an intrusion opens up the entire Jewish land to attack.

The nations of the world are watching and waiting: “When will Jews begin to say what they’re really thinking about the Land of Israel?” When a Jew starts talking diplomatic jargon, begging the nations to take more and more land, thinking that in this way he’ll find favor in their eyes – the non-Jew doesn’t believe him, because he’s not talking like a Jew.

The only approach which has succeeded so far is when Israel makes clear to the United States through its actions, that it will not compromise on security issues, and that the US needs a strong partner in the Middle East.

Israel is one of the surest places on the globe. To invest money in Israel, that is the surest bank that exists in our time.

One thing that still must be done for the sake of Israel’s security, is to teach the citizens of Israel to be the “People of the Land of Israel” – not just to dwell in the Land physically, but also spiritually.

A brief history of the Six-Day War and the Rebbe’s call for all Jewish men, particularly soldiers in the IDF, to don tefillin as a special merit for added security.

Life in Sderot: At any given moment, you have only fifteen seconds to find cover from rockets launched from Gaza. Would any western democracy tolerate this reality in their cities?

Israel, it seems, is always in the news. Why? What is so unique about the Jewish homeland that draws so much interest from all over the world?

A glimpse at Lubavitch building projects in Israel. (excerpt)

Home video footage of the Itamar family is interspersed with words from the mourners.

Rabbi Israel Meir Lau, former chief rabbi of Israel, delivers a passionate talk in solidarity of Israel.

In the wake of the 1982 Lebanon War, the Rebbe speaks about the foolish and dangerous stance of making concessions in the hopes of winning favor in the eyes of other nations. Guest Expert: Rabbi Moshe Spalter. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 20)