Conversations

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.

The Torah uses the metaphor that the Jewish people left Egypt "on eagles' wings" to emphasize the speed in which G-d took them out of Egypt. How important is a sense of urgency in our service of G-d? Guest Expert: Rabbi Mendel Kaplan. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 2)

The sun and the moon as symbols for innovation and tradition. Should Judaism adapt with the times or resist the changes of modernity? Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 3)

The Torah reading for Rosh HaShanah describes two great women -- Sarah and Hannah -- and their intense determination to become mothers. Guest Expert: Rivkah Slonim. (From "Messages" -- Season 4, Episode 4)

King Solomon says that a righteous person will "fall seven times and get back up." Why must we suffer a setback before we forge ahead? Guest Expert: Rabbi Mendel Kaplan. (From "Messages" -- Season 4, Episode 5)

The story of a sage assisted by angels in lifting a boulder leads to a discussion of how much can really be accomplished if one only makes a sincere effort. Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From "Messages" -- Season 4, Episode 6)

True peace is apparent only between people who have opposite perspectives and still manage to live in harmony with each other. Guest Expert: Chana Weisberg. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 7)

The purpose of creation is fulfilled by our making use of our bodies and the physical world around us to do G‑d’s will. Guest Expert: Rivkah Slonim. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 8)

On the ark, Noah lived in a utopian state of harmony with his family and all the animals on board—so much so that G‑d had to force him to leave after the Flood was over. What is the parallel in our own lives? Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 9)

What is the proper interpretation of the U.S. Constitution's Establishment Clause of the First Amendment? Did the founding fathers intend on creating a strict "separation of church and state"? Guest Expert: Rabbi Mendel Kaplan. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 11)

The first stage of the Jewish people's Exile was when the rabbis were sent away, but the "final straw" was when the children stopped studying. Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 12)

The Talmud says that R' Shimon ben Yochai's "Torah study was his profession"? What does it mean to make Torah study your main occupation. Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 14)

The Talmud says that R' Shimon ben Yochai's "Torah study was his profession"? What does it mean to make Torah study your main occupation. Guest Expert: Rabbi Mendel Kaplan. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 15)

What is the role of the Jewish mother in raising and educating her children? How does this differ from the role of the father? Guest Expert: Chana Weisberg. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 16)

Upon completing the building of the Sanctuary in the desert, everyone was able to behold G-d's presence with their physical eyes. When Moshiach comes, G-d will be seen everywhere by everyone. What does it mean to see G-d and why can't we see him all the time? Guest Expert: Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 18)

How does one find the perfect balance between perfecting oneself and perfecting the world? Guest Expert: Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 19)

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)

The greatness of a perfectly righteous tzaddik is not fully evident while he is still alive and his students can behold his physical presence. It is only after the passing of such a leader that we can know what effect he had on those who follow his ways. Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 21)

When there is discord between Jews, it is only because they fail to understand the true nature of their relationship with one another. When Jews understand that they are truly one, then all problems will automatically become resolved on their own. Guest Expert: Rivka Slonim. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 23)

If G-d wants us to serve him, why does he present us with obstacles that make it difficult to do so? Guest Expert: Rabbi Mendel Kaplan. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 24)

What is the purpose of the Ten Days of Repentance? Is it a time of solemn introspection or a time of rejoicing? Guest Expert: Rabbi Manis Friedman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 25)

How is it possible that the best year's of our forefather Jacob's life were spent in Egypt and not in the Holy Land? What does this teach us about the purpose of the soul's descent into the body? Guest Expert: Rabbi Tzvi Freeman. (From “Messages”—Season 4, Episode 26)

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.

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.

Basi L’gani, the title of the last Chassidic discourse from the sixth Chabad Rebbe, is customarily studied on the tenth of Shevat, the day of his passing. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 1)

The Torah’s axiom to love your friend as yourself, in essence means to love the other in accordance with their needs and wants—not merely what you want for yourself. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 2)

Maimonides in his code refers to the section of laws related to the Holy Temple as the laws of the ‘Chosen Home’. What is the message hidden therein? (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 3)

The opening statement in the Ten Commandments is “I am the L-rd your G-d who took you out of Egypt.” Why does G-d introduce himself at Sinai as being the liberator from Egypt, instead of as the creator of heaven and earth? (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 4)

What provides us the fortitude and confidence to always overcome the evil inclination (yetzer hara) in our internal battles? (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 5)

Why the Rebbe didn’t go to the holy land of Israel even for just a visit. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 7)

A prerequisite to truly perceive Torah is humility. Most humble before all was Moses, who received the Torah from G-d Himself (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 8)

On Tuesday, the third day of creation, trees sprouted forth and produced fruit. This can serve as a metaphor that applies to children too. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 9)

The Rebbe initiated a campaign encouraging each and every Jew to acquire a letter in a Torah Scroll. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 10)

During summer, schools and yeshivahs may close for vacation, but Judaism and Torah study must never cease, as they are our very source of life and vitality. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 11)

A parable of an ill prince is given to explain the need to reveal the inner dimension of Torah, known as the Kabbalah, to make it accessible to the masses. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 12)

The Rebbe asks a leading halachic authority to ‘rule’ that Moshiach should come. What purpose is this ruling meant to serve? (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 15)

Upon concluding the study of Mishneh Torah, Maimonides’ code of Jewish law, we immediately start again from the very beginning, which implies a strong connection between the two bookends. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 23)

Jewish identity is determined exclusively through being born to a Jewish mother. What is the rationale to this Torah law? (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 25)

The Torah provides guidance on how to increase security in Israel. (From “Messages”—Season 2, Episode 26)

Should we be afraid of divine judgment in the messianic era? What is the nature of this reckoning in a good and redeemed world?

What is the Jewish belief in the Resurrection of the Dead? What will actually happen and what is the purpose of this supernatural phenomenon?

Is it in our hands to impact when Moshiach comes or is there a predetermined date for his arrival? Must we be ready for the redemption through doing Teshuvah?

The Rebbe would passionately beseech G-d to bring Moshiach and encourage others to also ask for Moshiach to come now. This episode rebuts arguments of those that have criticized this approach.

The exile of Egypt is the paradigm and archetype for our current state of exile. Explore the spiritual meaning of Egypt as the ‘narrow straits’ that inhibit us from experiencing true freedom and redemption.

Tracing the origins of campaigns championing the imminent arrival of Moshicah, from the passionate activities of the Chofetz Chaim through the popularization via Chabad and the ensuing tensions.

Nowadays, many are not comfortable with the prospect of a real monarch, yet Moshiach will lead as us as a king. How do we understand this to be progress?

Education reigns supreme in Judaism; and in tandem with the debating and ruling on Torah law, teaching is also the role of the Sanhedrin, the Supreme Court, even in the Messianic Era when divine wisdom will be our primary pursuit.

What will the world be like in the messianic era? What is the meaning a “new Torah” being revealed in the times of Moshiach? Will Mitzvah observance be the same? In a perfected world, which the messianic era will usher in, what will be the objective of doing mitzvahs?

Moshiach will be a descendant of King David. What is the significance of this link? How are we to understand the potential for Moshiach in each generation?

What do the Prophets say about the war of Gog and Magog in messianic times?

Redemption is the underlying theme and objective in all of Judaism. Moses, the proto redeemer who brings redemption, has already put it all in motion. In essence, the undercurrent of redemption is present within the exile, and just needs to be revealed.

As one of the principles of our faith, we believe in the coming of Moshiach and anticipate his arrival. Why is it important to also await his coming?

Moshiach is the Jewish leader leading us throughout the messianic era. What is the function and need for a person to serve as leader in a perfected time?

The Talmud identifies and calls Moshiach a leper. How does leprosy represent the persona of Moshiach? Isn’t the spiritual affliction of leprosy associated with a spiritual deficiency?

There’s much mystery surrounding the magical persona and role of Elijah the Prophet in bringing peace in the messianic age.

The articulation of Moshiach is mostly featured in the Prophets, whereas much less is explicit in the Five Books of Moses.

Maimonides identifies the requisite qualities and achievements for someone to become Moshiach. What is the job description?

Maimonides states that we should not think that the messianic necessitates the suspension of nature. This tells us something very profound about the effect we have on world via doing mitzvahs.

The harp of King David had 7 strings, yet the harp of Moshiach will have eight.

The prophet Balaam who tried to curse the Jewish people, instead blesses them with incredible blessings. Maimonides points out how Balaam prophesies of two Messiahs, King David and King Messiah.

When Sara experienced failed fertility treatment, she increased in mitzvot. When doctors advised the Gutoviches to reduce, they placed their faith in G-d.

Meet Chani Benjaminson, born in Rome, she speaks several languages and directs Chabad.org's Ask the Rabbi team.

Rabbi Nechemia and Raizel Schusterman share their tips and experiences on parenting and how they helped their son recover from his addictions.

In advance of the anniversary of the Rebbe’s passing, Chabad.org's News Editor shared his journey from materialistic Manhattan to observant Judaism.

In advance of the anniversary of the Rebbe’s passing, Tzvi Freeman shares the twists and turns of his path from Vancouver to Brooklyn.

A master educator shares personal guidance from the Rebbe.

Devorah Goldberg shares the story of her ectopic pregnancy loss and how her commitment to the laws of family purity played a pivotal role in detection and ultimately saved her.

Hindy Markowitz, born as a blind preemie to a large, loving Jewish family, shares her life, her faith in G-d, her dreams and aspirations, as well as her many accomplishments as a writer, singer, sought-after speaker, and songwriter of "I Can Still See--Just Not Physically."

Utah homegrown Rabbi and Shliach, Avremi Zippel shares his 20-year journey to reclaim his child's voice by prosecuting his abuser, writing a memoir, and becoming an advocate for sexual abuse survivors on his journey to healing.

Shoshana tried to "fit in" with the crowd and forget about Judaism, but her involvement with CTeen, the Chabad teen network, reignited her pride in Judaism. When she personally experienced antisemitism at school, she decided to fight back on social media, with "Teens Against Anti-Semitism".

What is it like to wake up and see that your healthy child has suddenly passed away? What is it like to watch your dream of having a large family evaporate, as you fight a relentless cancer, and undergo non-stop chemo treatments? Ester Zirkind takes us along her journey searching for strength and faith.

Cassandra, now Chava, Clark had a long journey till she found and converted to Judaism. Matt Iofe, whose parents were from Russia, knew almost nothing about Judaism. At Chabad, they each learned about their Jewish soul and they found their soulmate.

Rabbi Schusterman's young wife died suddenly at 36, leaving him with 11 children. His journey led him to a deeper exploration of Judaism's teachings in dealing with tragedy and finding comfort.

During her youth and while pursuing her career as a psychologist, Dr. Lana Tiersky was not interested in an observant lifestyle. That all changed when her children embarked on their own journeys of increased observance.

After marrying, Sheina Goldberg thought that children would automatically follow—until they didn't. This is her miraculous story of finally giving birth to a child. She shares her challenges and struggles, and how she keeps growing.

After she buried four of her eight children from a rare genetic disorder, Devorie Kreiman's son drowned, six weeks before his wedding day. This is her story of healing and faith.

When at the age of eight, Hanna Butcher was enrolled in a Chabad Hebrew school she began her journey from Christianity back to her people.

Rosie Grossbaum is a high school student with an indomitable spirit who lives with the life-threatening disorder cystic fibrosis.

Nomi Freeman has been studying Near Death Experiences (NDEs) for more than a decade and has interviewed countless individuals about their personal experience.

Chaya Rochel Zimmerman is a mother of 11 and a grandmother to many. She has become an author of novels in order to bring awareness about mental health, immigration, and other societal issues.

Due to a devastating diagnosis, after the birth of her two daughters, Chaya Hott was told she couldn't have any more children. A decade later, she was given the clearance for one more child. Her pregnancy ended with a son who passed away. Chaya speaks about her unfathomable grief, as well as hope and faith. Today, Chaya is the mother of a healthy baby boy.

Meet Shua and Bashie Naparstek and learn how a marriage can withstand the greatest challenges.

Basya Edelstein shares her journey, as someone who grew up as a Mormon in Utah, to discover her place in Judaism.

One month into marriage, Rabbi Ariel Margulies was suffering from depression and anxiety. Today, he and his wife Chana have built a beautiful, strong marriage and authored a book together called, "Thank You For Being You." They share insights into their raw and honest soul trek.

Meet Luiz Fernando and Amanda Chimanovitch: Though they don't consider themselves "religious", this couple wants to share the beauty of the mitzvah of mikvah.

As the daughter of Max Azria of the BCBG fashion empire, Joyce's life revolved around the pursuit of materialism until she began her own spiritual journey--to a life imbued with the beauty of Shabbat, mitzvot, and faith in G-d.

Bashi was diagnosed with bipolar, depression, and anxiety as a young mother. Through her challenges, she discovered her power of belief in G-d, the gift of Chassidic teachings, and the power of meeting and sharing with others.

Batsheva Oberlander, shlucha in Hungary, talks about her refugee work, and is joined by a refugee from Ukraine, who is en-route to Israel.

Aliza Silberstein, Shlucha in Chernigov, Ukraine, shares what the last many days have been like for her and her family following the horrific outbreak of war.

What type of person becomes an organ donor twice?! Meet Rabbi Ephraim Simon, a kidney and liver donor, and his supportive wife, Nechama, both Shluchim of Bergen County, New Jersey in a fascinating conversation with Chana Weisberg.