Likkutei Sichot - Volume 18

Introduction In our morning blessings, we praise G‑d for “preparing the steps of man,” Our translation of the blessing is based on Metzudas Tziyon and Malbim on Tehillim 37:23. for there is a specific Divine intent leading us wherever we go. This reflects...

Introduction Among the recurring themes in the Rebbe’s sichos are the following three:a) The name of the weekly Torah reading reveals the fundamental theme of the entire parshah, providing an inclusive lesson that encompasses all its details.b) When two p...

Introduction One of the most ancient building tools – still in use today – is the lever. When desiring to lift a heavy object, a sturdy article is used as a fulcrum. One end of a rigid rod is leaned against it and the other end is placed under the object ...

Introduction One of the followers of the Alter Rebbe, Reb Binyamin Kletzker, was both a very successful timber merchant in Russia and a mystic known to meditate for hours on end.Once, after laboring over his annual budget and arriving at the bottom line —...

Introduction During one of his visits to the city of Vitebsk, the Jews of the city approached the Alter Rebbe with a heartfelt question, “Rebbe, when will Mashiach come?”The Alter Rebbe answered, “The Mashiach that the world at large wants will never come...

Introduction The terms “secret” and “mystery” are often used regarding mystical knowledge. The implication is that even when some measure of understanding can be gained, the essential concept remains fundamentally beyond the realm of human understanding.T...

Introduction The sichah to follow serves as a classic example of the manner in which the Rebbe uses a narrative from the Torah to introduce a broad-scope concept of particular relevance to contemporary society. Because of the length of this sichah and the...

Introduction The manner in which Hashgachah Pratis, Divine Providence, operates is a multifaceted subject that has been discussed by philosophers and mystics throughout the generations. Among the issues raised is the following: On one hand, since it is G‑...

Introduction There are many who regard the Talmudic and halachic dimensions of Torah study and the inner, mystic component of the Torah as two distinct disciplines. The Zohar, Zohar, Vol. III, p. 152a, et al. by contrast, sees them as inextricably bound, ...

The Torah portion Masei is always read during Bein HaMetzarim on or about Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av, the day of Aharon’s passing. The exact date of his demise is specifically recorded here in Masei,Bamidbar 33:38. although the narrative of Aharon’s passing...