Programs

A weekly video magazine featuring the Rebbe's application of Torah to timely events and issues

The cast of Jono, Rabbi Itche Kadoozy and Gefilte Fish never fail to evoke laughter. Watch these hilarious episodes -- and ponder the message cleverly veiled in the humor.

Watch as Rabbi Itche Kadoozy, Jono, Gefilte Fish and the rest of the cast bring out the messages of the Jewish holidays in hilarious fashion.

Join G-Fish on his quest to find his roots

Rabbi Itche Kadoozy, Jono and the rest of the IKS cast explore messages from the weekly Torah readings in their signature humorous fashion...

Meet the cast of the Itche Kadoozy Show

A documentary film crew visits the Ira and Edna Bernstein Jewish center to document the lives of Rabbi Itche Kadoozy and his friends, explore daily Jewish life, and avoid paying royalties to Gefilte P. Fish.

The Tefillin are our connection to G-d, as we submit the thoughts in our mind and the emotions in our heart to G-d.

The mezuzah and the laws concerning the small scroll of protection that adorns every door of our homes.

Explore the significance of the ritually fringed four-cornered garment.

Tzedakah is more than a Charitable act. It is sharing with others what G-d in His kindness has given us.

The Torah is more than a history book. It is G-d’s instructions to humanity. It tells us how to maximize our potential on this earth.

The last commandment of the Torah is to write one’s own Sefer Torah. Today this is commonly done through buying a letter, chapter or portion in a joint Sefer Torah. It is written by a scribe who is specially ordained to write, and its laws are meticulous.

Which species of animals, birds, fish and vermin are kosher, and which are not?

The preparation of kosher food is meticulous: slaughtering, checking and removing of the blood, plus which parts of the animal may not be eaten.

One of the fundamental principles of a Kosher home is keeping Milk and Meat separate; from pots & pans and cutlery to stoves and sinks. Plus: The laws of Koshering utensils previously used for non-kosher foods.

Shopping for Kosher foods, baked goods, fresh fruit and packaged goods; looking out for the Kosher certification and labels.

Wine represents the holiness and separateness of the Jewish people. However, since wine was and still is used in many forms of idolatrous worship, it has a unique status in Jewish law, which places extra restrictions on the making and handling of wine.

The rituals and customs that we have practiced for centuries at the Shabbat table; from lighting candles to eating delicious Challah.

Our sages tell us: G-d told the heavenly angels: “I have a special treasure called Shabbat, and I will give it to the Jewish people”. For six days we work, and the seventh – Shabbat brings holiness and rest” {Ed. Note: Not filmed on Shabbat}

“On the Seventh day you shall rest from all work”. What constitutes work? There are 39 Cardinal prohibitions on the Shabbat, and many off-shoot laws that are derived thereof. The first in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The second in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The third in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The fourth in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The fifth in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The sixth in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The seventh in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

The final episode in a series of eight classes, defining the laws of work on Shabbat.

Shatnez is the prohibition of wearing garments mixed with wool and linen. Join us as we take an up-close look at how to check materials to ensure they’re free of shatnez.

The mitzvah of pidyon haben is to redeem the firstborn son by giving a Kohen five silver shekels when the boy becomes a month old.

An Upsherin is the traditional “first haircut” ceremony held on a boy’s third birthday. This ceremony marks the start of the child’s formal education, and is highlighted by leaving the child’s payot, and his starting to wear a kippah and tzitzit.

A boy attains his religious maturity and becomes responsible to fulfill all Torah commandments at the age of thirteen; this milestone is traditionally celebrated with a Bar Mitzvah ceremony.

The Jewish way of dating and preparing yourself for your wedding.

The Jewish way of dating and preparing yourself for your wedding.

The key components of a Jewish wedding and some customs and traditions.

The key components of a Jewish wedding and some customs and traditions.

Children recite Kaddish for their loved ones’ departed soul. What is the meaning of Kaddish and how, when and why is Kaddish recited?

These classes teach the day’s section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

Textual study of the daily section of Tanya, the foundational text of Chassidic philosophy.

Rabbi Gordon studies one chapter a day from Maimonides’ classic legal work of Mishneh Torah. The original Hebrew text is read and then translated and clearly explained in English.

Does the universe have intelligence and consciousness; is it not far more complex than the human brain?

A more precise translation of the Hebrew word kadosh would be "transparency"

The concept of prayer seems paradoxical: asking G-d, who is infinite and all knowing, to grant us our puny needs and desires?

Our Sages teach: “tzedakah, charity, is equivalent to all the mitzvot combined”. Why such great emphasis on this individual mitzvah?

How to argue intelligently with the voice of temptation – the kabbalistic approach in dealing with the "yetzer hara."

Ultimately, psychology doesn't provide the answers. It's a method of dealing with malfunctions or dysfunctions, not a system for healthy living.

What's so bad about sin? If I'm not hurting anyone, why does G-d care?

The sages teach that the mind, by its very nature, has the ability to master the heart...

Chabad is an acronym for chochmah, binah and daat, which are commonly translated as wisdom, understanding and knowledge. Learn the mystical meaning of these three intellectual soul powers.

Everyone is looking for more happiness in their lives; but what is the magical formula for attaining true joy in life?

We are commanded to love every Jew at all times. But is this really doable? And what exactly is this love that is demanded of us?

G-d is not found in what is, but in what is becoming, in what is being done...

If you truly understood what you are and where you stand, how would you feel about yourself? Would you be elated? Utterly inadequate? Both at once? A mystical guide to self-knowledge as the ultimate antidote to depression.

There are three conditions in life: good, evil and the holy.

For man and G-d to be in relationship with each other there must be some common denominator that bridges the gap between the finite and the infinite.

Whatever happens is for the good: This belief may get us through hard times and is virtuous, but it has its limits…

For the mitzvah which I command you this day, it is not hidden from you, neither is it far off… Rather, the thing is very near to you, in your mouth, and in your heart, that you may do it.

The parents’ behavior and virtue significantly affects the molding of their child from the very earliest of stages and onward.

What makes a person "good"? Do you have to want to do good to be good?

We engage our physical world and nurture it, to find the common grain of truth, to expose and reveal the G-dly aspect latent in all of creation.

When is sadness bad? When is it a necessary and even positive tool for self-betterment?

Life is dynamic, equivocal and constantly changing. A book is static. Can a book serve as a guide to life generations and centuries after it was written?

The Talmud teaches that the mitzvah of loving your fellow Jew is the entirety of Torah. How could this mitzvah that’s between man and man encompass all of Torah that’s between man and G‑d?

When seeing a wrong, do we have a moral responsibility to get involved and object or is it solely between that individual and G-d.

We all tak about it; but what is it? What is the science of attraction? What does a man truly find irresistible about a woman? Can attraction only be about the continuation of our species?

Is our relationship with G-d predicated solely on "obedience" or is there something else at play as well? On the significance on the mitzvah

What is the most intelligent question regarding the world’s origin?

Rabbi Manis Friedman discusses how 2,000 years of being discriminated against has affected our self-awareness as Jews. How do we heal? How do we stand up, not in spite of our Jewishness, but because of it? What does it mean to be "Jewishly Proud"?

When we are skeptical, are we really being intelligent, or is it simply an emotional hesitation?

Have you ever loved someone that you didn't need, that didn't matter deeply to you? Probably not, but why? What is the true nature of love?

Love is overrated: in relationships, in religion, in society as a whole. Love may add flavor to life. But purpose brings life to life. That's indispensable.

Does a "moral" society imply absolute equality among its members?

Our relationships with our parents don't need to be as complicated as we might make them...

Some say we need more and bigger government, since we can't trust people anymore. But would government be more trustworthy?

A fundamental principle of morality is the need to treat people as they deserve to be treated and not merely what is comfortable for us…

What is morality? What is goodness?

Morality and goodness revisited

If you had three candies, would you keep them all for yourself? Keep two and give away one? Keep one and give two? Give them all?

Is being "spiritual" the same as being G-dly? Spirituality is a human impulse not a divine one.

Rabbi Tzvi Freeman provides a first entry into authentic and practical Jewish meditation. Taking us step by step through the words of the first morning prayer, providing imagery and concepts for mindful focus.

Continuing the Modeh Ani meditation with a contemplation of the Creator as Author of our personal stories.

Final segment of the Modeh Ani meditation, focusing on the return of the soul.

The Kaddish response is meant to be said with "all the power of your mental focus." Here is a practical guide to saying each word with total mindfulness and focus.

The first step of Shema is to lift yourself into a space from which you can see the view from above.

We use the emergence of speech from the human psyche to experience the act of creation within ourselves.

Real secrets don't need to be hidden--they are known only to those who already know. The most absolute secret is to know existence itself.

Now we bring this all back down to earth with an added line after the Shema.

The very idea of prayer is absurd--a tiny creature speaking with its Creator, like a figment of your imagination talking back to you. Once you accept that absurdity, you are ready to stand in the awe of prayer.

The Shemoneh Esrei tells a story, began with a proper order of priorities in life, each need in its proper place.

Next comes the story of redemption, leading up to the ultimate prayer in the temple of a rebuilt Jerusalem.

Leaving the upper world while holding on tight.

Mindful eating begins by opening a channel. Tzvi Freeman works backwards, step by step, disclosing the thoughts behind a mindful blessing.

Before doing any mitzvah, a blessing is also said, but somewhat longer. Rabbi Freeman illuminates the meaning of the added words.

A preparation for prayer; a consciousness of a great presence.

The movements we make with the Four Kinds each day of Sukkot are a meditation on bringing our emotions into balanced harmony. This meditation is grounded in the kavanot of the Ari, as explained in the siddur of Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi.

G-d spoke and the world came to be. If G-d would cease to continuously recreate the miracle of creation, the world would cease to be.

The Binding of Issac and the Meaning of Jewish Martyrdom

What, in the final analysis, do we have to give to our Creator, the source of all we have?

Everything in creation has a nature. The nature of the Jewish soul is to serve G-d without any desire for self-actualization.

Selflessness within the sanctity of marriage is a metaphor for a Jew’s relationship with G‑d.

The awesome potential of the G-dly soul may go unrealized only until a moment of truth wakes us up from our spiritual slumber.

In the context of a Jew's relationship with G-d, every sin is an act of betrayal. Thus, teshuvah (repentance) is the act of restoring closeness after the bonds of trust have been broken.

Although we normally shun depression and strive to be joyous all the time, there is an appropriate context for sadness. When is there a benefit to having a broken heart?

Are the darkest moments of our lives really G-d communicating with us on a higher level? The traditional prayer of mourning -- "Baruch Dayan Emet" -- holds the answer.

Faith is the ability to accept that painful experiences can actually be a form of goodness that is beyond the mind's ability to grasp.

Sometimes we cannot get inspired because our hearts are callous from past sins. Even if we have repented in the past, if we are about to ascend to a higher level of spiritual growth, we need to tap into a deeper level of repentance.

What to do when our own unholy, negative or selfish thoughts distract us from staying focussed on spiritual pursuits.

G-d is not displeased with those who struggle to do the right thing. To the contrary, it causes G-d great pleasure to see us striving to overcome our lower nature.

A bunch of stick figures cross paths on a crowded street.

Two little stick men in a park discuss methods of staying connected to G‑d.

One stick man schmoozes with another stick man on an airplane. Lives are changed. How’s that for a blurb?

A group of warriors prepare for an epic quest to the end of the ocean.

A man and his stomach have a party.

A man wearing a fez gives a man wearing a top hat a tour of his menagerie. How could you not watch that?

Three little judges deliberate a case.

A stick man has a decision to make.

A hot dog vendor and a construction worker chat about a frozen man.

A headless, one-armed stick man does some stuff.

Two guys put away boxes in a giant warehouse. Sounds exciting, doesn't it?

Someone who thinks he's G-d -- on a New York City subway (where else?)

One little dude throwing words at another little dude.

A little guy drinking coffee in a soul-crushingly boring little diner where the prevalent philosophy is that the lights are “just on” . . .

I’m sure this cartoon will push some buttons, so take it away...

Two animated stick men trying to maintain balance on a seesaw-like floor. Can you relate to this scene?

30 second animated shorts using stick figures to explore Jewish philosophy. Bizarre yet intriguing. Oh, and kind of funny.

How much is that gazzillionaire REALLY worth? Sometimes it takes a stickfigure to give us some perspective...

Two stick figures bound to a wheel... Up and down... But they learn a powerful lesson along with the ride...

A wonderful story that illustrates how every moment in life is an opportunity to do a mitzvah

How are we to deal with change in life that appears to be misfortune and cause for pain? A tale of two pails

Everything can teach us a lesson on how to serve G-d better. The same is true about something that happened during one of the Apollo Mission landings

Are you a Noah or an Abraham? The truth is you are both!

What exactly is the translation and meaning of the word “Torah”? And what is its significance in our lives?

An amazing story of how one event changed the lives of many generations of one family.

The meaning of -- Yisrael -- the name of all Jews.

Our duty to clean up the planet -- materially and spiritually.

The lesson of Purim is that we can discover G-d in the hidden miracles of everyday life.

Dr. Velvel Greene was an original participant in NASA’s Exobiology program searching for life on Mars. The Rebbe used to ask him for regular reports on his scientific research.

Dr. Velvl Greene is Professor Emeritus of Epidemiology and Public Health at Ben Gurion University. An original participant in NASA’s Exobiology program, he served as Professor of Public Health and Microbiology at the University of Minnesota for 27 years.

Dr. David Luchins served on the staff of US Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan for twenty years. He reveals the Rebbe’s influence in bringing down the Iron Curtain.

Rabbi Sholom Ber Lipskar is executive director of the Aleph Institute, which services the religious needs of Jewish men and women in prison. In 1985, they brought a group of prisoners to spend a weekend in Crown Heights, where they attended the Rebbe’s Shabbos Farbrengen.

In 1973, Rabbi Shmuel Kaplan was called upon by the Rebbe to help a teenager at risk. He shares a touching letter that the youth received from the Rebbe.

Former Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu shares some of the personal experiences he had with the Rebbe during his tenure as Israel’s Ambassador to the United Nations.

Mrs. Louise Hager was fourteen years-old when she first met the Rebbe's wife, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka. Over the years, she developed a close relationship with the Rebbetzin.

Dr. Susan Handelman is Professor of English Literature at Bar Ilan University in Israel. Trying to decide on a topic for her doctoral thesis, she decided to ask the Rebbe’s opinion.

Mr. Aaron Noach Blasbalg was a member of the board of Poalei Agudat Israel for 25 years. He recalls a fascinating private audience he and his colleagues had with the Rebbe.

Dr. Susan Handelman is Professor of English Literature at Bar Ilan University in Israel. While working on her PhD in 1977, she came to study in Crown Heights, with some suspicions as to what she would find to be the woman’s place in Chassidic life.

Efraim Steinmetz's father knew the Rebbe in Paris during the 1930s.

Rabbi Ephraim Sturm served as Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Council of Young Israel from 1956 to 1992. In the early 1960s, he read an alarming statistic about the assimilation rate of Jewish Orthodox students in American colleges.

Robert Steingut shares a heartwarming childhood account, of what it was like to be the Rebbe’s neighbor.

David Bezborodko was a businessman from a non-Chassidic family, who directed his family’s glass and mirror factory in Paris.

With Germany about to invade France, Asher Heber’s father was unsure whether to escape Paris with his family and leave behind their well-established life. When he consulted the Rebbe for his opinion, the Rebbe suggested some seemingly impossible advice...

Dr. David Luchins' family joined the Tzemach Tzedek Synagogue in the Brownsville section of Brooklyn, around 1910. In 1955, when the neighborhood changed, the property was sold for a large sum. The Rebbe was asked where the money should be spent.

After the first El Al plane was hijacked to Algiers, the story began to circulate of the Rebbe’s advice to Ariel Sharon not to board that flight. Rabbi Zev Segal decided to corroborate the story with the Rebbe himself.

Diane Abrams is an attorney in New York City. Like many before her, the Rebbe gave her a blessing for a child, and it was fulfilled. Like many before her, her meetings with the Rebbe broke many stereotypes and expectations.

Rabbi Chaim Ciment shares a few stories he heard from Rabbi Joseph Ber Soloveitchik about his days together with the Rebbe in Berlin.

Mrs. Danièle Gorlin Lassner’s parents and grandparents knew the Rebbe and Rebbetzin from Europe. On this occasion in 1987, she accompanied her parents to visit the Rebbetzin.

Dr. Yaacov Hanoka relates how the Rebbe guided him when he first left college and began studying in the Lubavitch Yeshivah

As a rabbinic student at 770, Rabbi Aaron Cousin joined his colleagues in working under the New York State "Released time" program, which allows Public School students to receive religious instruction.

Dr. David Luchins served on the staff of US Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan for twenty years. In 1983, he attended a retirement party for Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm of Crown Heights, where she revealed the identity of a most important mentor.

Dr. Yitzchak Block is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy at the University of Western Ontario. In the mid-1950s, he accompanied a group of college students to a private audience with the Rebbe.

Dov Zlotnik, Professor of Rabbinic Literature at the Conservative Movement’s Jewish Theological Seminary, once delivered a sermon on the importance of Family Purity. As he was to discover, for the Rebbe, a good sermon requires a great ending…

Yitzchak Rabin was Prime Minister of Israel, and served as Israel’s ambassador to the United States in the early 1970s. In 1972, he was sent to convey Israel’s blessings to the Rebbe in honor of his 70th birthday.

Efraim Steinmetz is a businessman from Caracas, Venezuela. He and his wife came to the Rebbe with concerns about their children’s Jewish education. The Rebbe answered with a story from his own childhood.

While living in Berlin, the Rebbe made the acquaintance of a Jewish businessman named Yitzchok Meir Ferstenberg. Rabbi Chazkel Besser of Agudas Yisrael of America later heard these recollections from Yitzchok Meir.

Rabbi Leibel Posner was a student at 770 during the 1940s, and would attend the Rebbe’s monthly Shabbos-Mevorchim Farbrengen. An illuminating lesson in the game of life.

In the first portion of the Torah, Adam and Eve receive the commandment to “be fruitful and multiply.” What are the parameters of this mitzvah today?

The life of Noah raises questions of how to address the moral failings of others, from zealous extremism on one hand to insularism and apathy on the other.

How, when and if to speak up for what’s right, when the people who are acting improperly are your own family members.

G‑d’s visit to Abraham following his circumcision teaches us some important guidelines in how to properly perform the mitzvah of bikkur cholim—visiting the sick.

Abraham’s response to the loss of his wife, Sarah, teaches us how to properly honor those who have passed on.

Emulating our forefather Isaac's financial success and how he apportioned his wealth to tzedakah—charity.

We learn from our father Jacob an important lesson in when and how to forgo a personal religious stringency in the face of a greater obligation.

The story of Jacob’s struggle with an angel provides the source for the prohibition of eating the sciatic nerve of an animal. In this class, other complicated issues involving the preparation of kosher meat are also discussed.

Rachel's firstborn son, Joseph, being sold into slavery as a source for the mitzvah of monetarily redeeming the firstborn son of a Jewish woman.

The Torah tells us that both of Joseph’s sons were born before the famine began in Egypt. What do the commentaries say we are supposed to learn from this?

In this week's portion in which Judah promises the safe return of his brother Benjamin, we look at the severity of oaths and vows, how to know when you've made one and how to be released from it once you have.

In this week’s portion, Jacob gives his sons his last will and testament. What does Jewish law say about how to bequeath an inheritance to heirs?

The unusual circumstances of Moses’ son’s brit milah (circumcision) and what it teaches us about how that mitzvah may be performed -- and by whom.

Moses would not pray anywhere within Pharaoh’s capital city, because it was full of idols. Where—besides for a synagogue—can a Jew pray? Where is a Jew forbidden to pray?

In this week’s Torah portion, the Jews leave Egypt and receive the commandment to keep the Passover. What practical preparations are needed to be ready for Pesach?

A double portion of manna would fall from heaven on Fridays. We discuss the mitzvah of the “double Shabbos loaves” (lechem mishneh) and other customs of the Shabbat meal.

The difference between “remembering” and “keeping” the Shabbat.

The strict prohibition against two Jewish litigants taking their case to secular courts.

Every synagogue is known as a “miniature sanctuary” (mikdash me’at). How does one show respect for a shul?

The priestly garments were allowed to contain an admixture of wool and linen that is normally forbidden. Why is this? And why is it normally prohibited?

The priests would wash their hands in the laver (“kiyor”) each morning before working in the Temple. What are the laws of the morning handwashing ritual?

“Six days shall you work…” How does one actually rest on Shabbat?

Moses publically audits what all of the donations were used for in the building of the Sanctuary. To what lengths must one go to clear oneself of suspicion?

This Torah portion speaks about the central role that salt played in all of the Temple sacrifices. In this class, we will see how this prominence carries over into many common Jewish practices.

We learn about the thanksgiving offering (korban todah), which is the basis for the blessing recited when one survives a life-threatening situation.

The biblical criteria for determining which animals are kosher, and their practical application today.

This portion provides the Biblical source for the mitzvah of circumcision on the eighth day. What are the specific laws and customs of this life-cycle event?

A textual analysis of the Biblical origins for the laws of family purity and mikveh.

In this portion that lists all of the many forbidden relationships, we examine how Torah expects us as Jews to conduct ourselves in the most private and holy aspect of our lives.

A detailed explanation of how the commandment “Do not destroy the corners of your beard” (Lev. 19:27) is understood in various communities.

What does Judaism say about the soul and where it comes from? Why do we have a soul and what is it meant to accomplish. Rabbi DovBer Pinson helps us better understand this esoteric topic.

Rabbi Pinson continues to outline the journey of the soul and the Jewish belief in reincarnation.

A discussion on how to maximize our full potential in relationships of marriage in order to achieve true happiness and fulfillment.

Professor Lawrence Schiffman, a noted scholar, details the rich historical significance of the sacred sites of the Western Wall and the Temple Mount in Jerusalem up until their modern day status.

The concept of divine providence introduces reason and meaning to everything that happens to us in of our lives.

The topic of the soul is a true mystery, as it relates to things of the spirit which cannot be felt in a tangible way. Yet it is very much a reality in our belief system.

An interview with Sue Fishkoff, the author of The Rebbe’s Army, a book detailing the Chabad movement’s activities in furthering Judaism.

Rabbi Yosef Chaim Kantor, chief rabbi and director of Chabad in Bangkok, Thailand, describes Jewish life in Thailand.

Have you ever experienced a moment when a seemingly random event also seemed strangely meaningful, or even miraculous? Judith Leventhal, the co-author of the best-selling series Small Miracles, speaks to these phenomena and shares some of these moving stories.

The book of Tanya, a masterpiece of Chassidic philosophy, has captured the mind and heart of many. What is its message?

Rabbi Israel Meir Lau, former chief rabbi of Israel, delivers a passionate talk in solidarity of Israel in 2002.

The Ten Commandments, which have served as the bedrock of morality for generations, are central in Judaism. Rabbi Teldon details the make-up of these mitzvahs.

A discussion on some of the customs and symbolism at a Jewish wedding.

Avraham Fried, world-acclaimed Jewish singer, shares his experiences in touching countless of lives across the globe in his performances.

Children participate in a hands-on demonstration of the many steps entailed in making handmade matzah for the Passover Seder. A workshop by Rabbi Michoel Albukerk from Tzivos Hashem Crafts Workshops.

Children participate in a hands-on demonstration of how to make olive oil to light the menorah on Chanukah. A workshop by Rabbi Michoel Albukerk from Tzivos Hashem Crafts Workshops

Children participate in a hands-on demonstration of how to make a shofar for Rosh Hashana. A workshop by Rabbi Michoel Albukerk from Tzivos Hashem Crafts Workshops.

It’s important to know what Judaism says on how to properly attend to the deceased from the time of death to burial. Rabbi Elchonon Zohn, a renowned expert on Jewish burial in our tradition, clarifies the matter.

Looking back fifty years to the beginning of the leadership of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, we explore his unbelievable impact and continuing influence throughout the world. (From a cable show in 1999)

The chazan plays a central role in the High Holiday services leading the congregation in prayer. As we prepare for Rosh Hashanah, renowned chazan, Joseph Malovany reflects on the special role of the cantor and his experience singing around the world to inspire the Jewish heart.

Some people have argued that capitalism is legalized greed. Compassion for others is certainly a cardinal Jewish value; but do free markets run contrary to that ideal? What does the Torah say?

Financial worries and the daily grind of life are the cause of much stress and anxiety. What kind of advice does the Torah have for dealing with economic uncertainties?

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?

Today, many have achieved extraordinary material success unimaginable in times prior and have generously shared their gifts to help those in need. What compels them to distribute so much of their personal income? What causes people -- of any level of affluence -- to give away their hard-earned money?

An old Swedish chemist was branded by the media as the "merchant of death" - but managed to change his reputation and create a new legacy of extraordinary goodness.

The Israel Defense Force is one of the most advanced armies in the world. Learn about Israel's secret weapon and discover how you can use it to defend our sacred homeland!

We rush out of work and head to our homes as if we're escaping from a dark prison cell. Does G-d really want us to subject ourselves to this self-imposed daily incarceration?

Did you know that Ralph Lauren was born as Ralph Ruben Lifshitz! In this week's ParshahCast we look at another famous Jewish celebrity who also had his name changed. Find out who, and why.

Unfortunately, it is not totally uncommon to find resentment or bad blood between family members. It almost always starts out small but somehow ends up spiraling out of control. What does Judaism say about family feuds?

Pharaoh issued a merciless decree to drown the newborn Jewish boys. What was his scheming plan for the girls?

The story of the Exodus has been told a million times over. True, the ancient tale of miracles and plagues is rich and colorful, but does it carry any personal meaning for us in our modern age?

In our Torah portion this week, G‑d gives the Jewish people, this new nation that is set to embark on a journey to the Promised Land, their first mitzvah. What do you think that mitzvah would be?

At the dawn of the exodus, our ancestors stood at the banks of the Red Sea, suddenly trapped between its raging waters and the advancing Egyptian forces behind them. What did they do?

The fourth of the Ten Commandments is to honor and observe the Shabbat, the holy Sabbath. “Six days you shall labor…. and on the seventh day you shall rest,” why are we commanded to work?

Our parshah opens with a listing of moral and civil laws. It really seems odd that the awesome revelation on Mt. Sinai should be followed by laws that any just nation would follow.

Indiana Jones discovered the Ark of the Covenant. Can we uncover the valuable message in this week’s Parshah?

Our parshah this week contains a glaring omission. The name of Judaism's greatest leader, Moses, is not to be found at all in the portion! Tune in and find out where Moses was hiding!

Moses descends Mt. Sinai and shockingly encounters the Jewish people worshipping the golden calf. Tune in to discover how Moses dealt with his people's betrayal of G-d.

When paying taxes, few people offer to contribute more than required. However by the construction of the Mishkan, the tabernacle, the Jews donated well beyond what was needed, why?

When constructing the Mishkan, Moses schleps in the furniture (i.e. the ark, the menorah etc.) before the entire structure is completed. Why does he furnish G-d’s home in such a backwards way?

The book of Leviticus describes in-detail the Temple service of animal sacrifice. How can we find personal significance in this ancient ritual that was the premier service in the Holy Temple?

Last week's parshah discussed the laws of purity relating to animals and now we learn the laws of purity for the human being; why do animals precede man?

If G-d told you to drill through your concrete floor to discover gold, would you do it?

After the Yom Kippur service in the Holy Temple concluded, throngs of worshippers would accompany the High Priest back to his home for a holiday feast. Why the big celebration?

In the Jewish vernacular we hear phrases such as "the Holy Shabbat" or "the Holy Torah"; but what is "holiness"?

G-d commands Moses and Aaron to conduct a census of the Jewish people. But if G-d is all-knowing – including the exact population of the Jewish people – what then is the point in counting them?

The Torah lists separately the gifts that each of the leaders of the tribes brought to dedicate the altar, even though each man brought identical gifts. Why does the Torah repeat the same list twelve times in a row?

In response to complaints by those who missed their chance to bring the Passover offering, the Jewish people were given a new holiday: the Second Passover. Therein lies a powerful lesson.

The book of Deuteronomy opens as the Jewish people are on “the other side of the Jordan (River)” soon to enter the Promised Land. Why is the Torah so vague on the location?

The Torah commands us: You shall love the L-rd your G-d with all your heart. How can we be expected to feel a love for Him if the feeling is not embedded in our heart?

Topics include: The Tree of Knowledge, the reincarnations of Cain and Abel and a hidden reference to Lilith.

Topics include: Noah's reincarnation as Moses, the Tower of Babel, Abraham and Sarah as the source of the souls of future converts.

Topics Include: Abraham's journey as it corresponds to the three levels of the soul, a spiritual explanation of the rivalry between Sarah and Hagar, the difference between the names Avram and Avraham.

Topics Include: the three angels visit Abraham, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the rectification of Adam’s soul through the binding of Isaac.

Topics include: The lesson of Sarah's dying of shock, why Abraham paid full price for the Cave of Machpelah, the deeper meaning of getting white hair.

Topics include: Rebecca’s pregnancy, Jacob and Esau as reincarnations of Cain and Abel, why Jacob carried the fragrance of the Garden of Eden.

Topics include: Jacob's dream, Laban as the embodiment of the Primordial Serpent, the conception of Reuben, a deeper meaning of the name "Vayeitzei."

Topics include: The advantages of the chaotic energy of Tohu, the double identity of Jacob's wrestling opponent, the deeper meaning of the mitzvah not to eat the sciatic nerve.

Topics include: When Joseph was reincarnated to be martyred, why the ancestor of Moshiach was born from the union of Judah and Tamar, and how Joseph managed to resist Potiphar’s wife.

Topics include: The mystical significance of the seven sickly cows, how Joseph learned seventy languages in one night, and why the depravity of Egypt may best be described as “bad love.”

Topics include: How Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers teaches us how to reconcile with G‑d, what Jacob was looking for when he was reunited with Joseph, and a numerical hint to Jacob’s rectification of Adam’s reincarnated soul.

Topics include: a mystical reason for why tefillin are made of leather, the connection between Jacob and Rabbi Akiba, and why Jacob did not bless two of his twelve sons.

Topics include: Moses as the perfect specimen of the human species, the name "Moses" and its symbolic connection to water, why Moses thought the people would not believe him, and the importance of crying out to G-d for redemption.

Topics include: The secret of mastering your own internal "Pharaoh," why Moses was born 130 years after the Jews came to Egypt, blood and frogs as a lesson in passion and coolness, and shortness of breath as a metaphor for the distractions of modern life.

Topics include: Pharaoh as the embodiment of the “irrational attraction to physical pleasure,” the Ten Plagues as a manifestation of the power of the ten sefirot, why the Torah does not begin with the first mitzvah, and why “narrow­mindedness” is the root of all evil.

Topics include: Why it took forty years to complete an eleven-day journey, the spiritual symbolism of the splitting of the sea, and the power of song to preserve the emotional power of a moment.

Topics include: Jethro as a reincarnation of Cain, how we draw the Ten Commandments of Torah into the Ten Utterances of Creation, and why the revelation at Sinai is the basis for our belief in Moses.

Topics include: the kabbalistic meaning of “an eye for an eye,” the prohibition against cooking a calf in its mother’s milk as a precaution against spiritual narcissism, and why the Torah describes G‑d as a “consuming fire.”

Topics include: The symbolism of gold, silver and copper in the Tabernacle; the debate between the philosophers and the kabbalists as to whether G‑d can create a square circle; and how the scarlet, turquoise and purple wool of the tapestries of the Tabernacle represent the harmonization of G‑dly attributes in creation.

Topics include: Kohen, Levi and Israelite as the "core emotional building blocks of the universe," the spiritual reason why there are twelve tribes, and the seven day process of inaugurating the Tabernacle as a culmination of the Seven Days of Creation.

Topics include: How the half shekel donation rectified the masculine aspect of the soul, why we have ten fingers and ten toes, and Aaron as a reincarnation of Abraham’s brother Haran.

Topics include: Why G‑d created the world with language, the lid of the ark as a metaphor for the human heart, and the importance of living an “integrated” lifestyle.

Topics include: How to protect oneself from the "evil eye," the Tabernacle as a physical representation of a spiritual archetype, how the tapestries of the Tabernacle represent a "foretaste" of spiritual attainments to come.

Topics include: The Zohar’s explanation of the small-sized letter aleph in the first word of this portion, the prohibition of sacrificial fats as a warning against “spiritual obesity,” and sacrifices as the ultimate act of supra-rational altruism.

Topics include: The prohibition against extinguishing the fire on the altar as an instruction to banish negative attitudes, the Zohar's explanation of why an impure earthenware vessel must be broken to become pure again, how Aaron and his sons reached the level of holiness attained only by Isaac at the Akeida.

Topics include: Moses and Aaron as they represent masculine dominance and feminine nurturing respectively, sin as a "spiritual pollutant" and how it brought about the gruesome deaths of Aaron's two sons, the positive lesson we can learn from them.

Topics include: The pain of childbirth as a lesson that G-d does not bring upon us burdens that we cannot handle, different shades of tzaraat lesions and their correspondence to different degrees of spiritual sickness, the seven day quarantine of the leper as a metaphor for reincarnation.

Topics include: Where the Torah hints to the spiritually purifying powers of water, why the greatest blessings are often hidden within disaster, the connection between immersing in a mikveh and Moses' forty days and nights on Mt. Sinai.

Topics include: How two of Aaron's sons shared the same soul, which days and months are times of Divine mercy, a mystical explanation for the mitzvah of covering the blood of a slaughtered animal.

Topics include: A homiletic interpretation of the mitzvah to leave the corners of the field unharvested, the beard as a symbol for the flow of Divine blessing, one reason why a person's soul might reincarnate as an animal.

Instructions on how to celebrate Chanukah by making your own delicious fried potato pancakes. In American Sign Language.

A mysterious package brings two Jews together in this short narrative that teaches about the mitzvah of putting up a mezuzah.

More than just a day of partying, a Jewish birthday celebrates your being. It provides an opportunity for growth.

Learn how to make a mouth-watering matzah ball soup in this easy-to-follow video.

Deaf Holocaust survivor, Charlotte Friedman, talks about how she successfully escaped war-torn Europe and the many experiences she had on the way, including meeting Ann Frank and her family in Holland.

Deaf Holocaust survivor, Charlotte Friedman, talks about how she successfully escaped war-torn Europe and the many experiences she had on the way, including meeting Ann Frank and her family in Holland.

Learn the Shema prayer with Hebrew and English subtitles and also in ASL.

A funny video about the special mitzvah of placing a mezuzah on the doorposts of our homes.

A comedic portrayal of the positive impact tzedaka (charity) has in our lives.

A brief discussion on the importance of burial in Judaism.

Discover the secret to being a good person—a message for all mankind.

Can you imagine the awesomeness of attending a camp geared for Jewish Deaf boys? Nowhere else in the world will you find such a camp program like ours at Camp L'man Achai. Summer 2014 was the start of a beautiful program for deaf boys 8-16 years old from all over the world.

Women often seek love and connection. Men often seek respect and appreciation. Embedded within the Torah is advice on how to create a successful relationship.

When life is rushing by leaving you with an endless to do list, when you feel swamped with the demands of life, how can you cope?

Things do not always go according to our plans and expectations. In fact, they rarely do.

We hear of the miracles that great people’s prayers can accomplish. But is prayer also for us regular folk?

We often reminisce about the yesteryears of our lives. Impatiently, we may look forward to the tomorrows. But are we as successful with living fully in the present?

A child shouldn’t be expected to be a miniature replica of his parent. Individual character traits need to be honed and channeled.

There are some moments in our lives when we are at peace with our inner, spiritual selves. The majority of our experiences are strenuous, often painful, and challenge us to overcome the negative urges of our psyche.

How to react when confronted with an opportunity that may challenge, tempt or oppose your beliefs or goals . . .

Anger and self-pity rob us of our serenity. Bitterness and victimization blind us from seeing another’s pain.

During the good times, spiritually, emotionally or materially, we need to nurture our priorities and cultivate a sincere bond with G‑d. The time and energy invested will provide us with the tools to survive during the crisis years of famine.

We can educate, inspire and assist another, but ultimately, the only one who can effect any real and lasting change is the person himself.

Can we look beyond the faults or inadequacies of another to envision what our matriarch saw?

When confronted with a situation that seems hopeless, don’t resign yourself to inactivity with the excuse that the little you can do can’t possibly make a difference.

Times of extraordinary illumination from above are preceded by periods of profound darkness.

The catalyst for any awakening is action. Transformation begins as soon as we are ready to take the first step in the right direction.

Inspiration alone is insufficient. An awakening must be followed by action, or doubt can easily neutralize it.

The gateway to tolerance is humility; but humility must be tempered with healthy and guarded self-assurance.

Unquestioning acceptance of G‑d’s commandments does not mean that we are to perform them with mindless obedience.

The Tabernacle was to be built by every man, woman and child. Even a Jew who may appear to be a sinner is still obligated and capable of building a dwelling for G‑d.

When “giving in” can actually help you achieve what you essentially want.

When one partner betrays the other, for reconciliation to occur, each must feel that “we are so connected that you mean more to me than whatever it was that you did.”

Do you define yourself by who you are, or by what you do?

Experience your largeness, but at the same time feel your smallness. Talents are gifts endowed to you by G‑d.

When you love life, you’re less likely to feel weighed down by your inadequacies.

Though we are not expected to react like Aaron, our own lives are rarely easy. To accept life’s challenges, we need to cultivate our faith that G‑d runs the world.

Can you imagine a world bereft of evil talk, rumors, slander and gossip? What would it look like?

On a simple level, loving another means treating them with the respect with which you would want to be treated. On a deeper level, it is the ability to love another, like a father loves a child, regardless of who and what they are.

The holidays are spiritual days that “call to us” to stop the ordinary activities of our lives. They also enable us to “call forth” and tap into the spiritual resources that these days hold.

In a healthy relationship, the love must deepen and grow, or the relationship is at risk of becoming static and stale. The same is true in our relationship with G‑d.

When we realize the importance of our individual roles, we are empowered to tackle and transform our personal wildnerness.

A series of text-based classes on the life of the matriarch Sarah as illuminated by the Torah, Talmud, Midrash, Kabbalah and other primary sources.

A series of text-based classes on the life of Miriam as illuminated by the Torah, Talmud, Midrash, Kabbalah and other primary sources.

From the story of the prophetess Chanah, we learn the proper way to approach G‑d and express our needs. (A text-based discussion of the first chapter of Samuel I.)

What was unique about Maimonides Sefer HaMitzvot in which he lists and defines each of the 613 commandments of the Torah?

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 1 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 2 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 3 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 4 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 5 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 6 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 7 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 8 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 9 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 10 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 11 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 12 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.