Living Torah Archives

In a Chassidic discourse distinguished by its tone and rhythm, the Rebbe draws parallels between the Exodus from Egypt, and the journey of the soul. Just like there were many stages to the Exodus, in which as each boundary was breached another needed to be overcome, our lives are very much the same.

Chasidim sing the Rostover nigun, usually sung in preparation for a Maamar, a Chasidic Discourse. This nigun is often associated with the fifth Rebbe of Chabad, the Rebbe Rashab.

Chassidim join together in singing this soul stirring melody as the Rebbe leads the Niggun during a Farbrengen celebrating his birthday in 1981.

The Torah provides a strict warning that offerings may not be brought outside the Holy Temple. Among the rituals performed in the Temple were the placing of the blood and fat of an offering on the Altar.

At the Exodus from Egypt the Jews experienced true unity. The experience at Sinai caused them to become one. In order to order bring this into practical reality today, in a way that even a child can appreciate, it needs to involve something tangible.

When the Temple stood, certain offerings were based on a person’s means. A poor person could bring an offering of lesser value, while a wealthy person who brought the same offering had not fulfilled his obligation. Since G-d had blessed him with wealth, more was expected of him.

The best way to heal illness is through preventive measures. The disease of crime is a reality, but recognizing that it is real should bring about real change. The education system must reorient itself to stop this disease before it manifests. We are not calling for a "new" resolution, but rather a return to the values accepted by the citizens of this country and by all nations.

The assassination attempt on President Reagan's life proves that poverty cannot be blamed as the true source of crime. Crime comes from a deeper source.

An address on the Rebbe's birthday, shortly after the assassination attempt on US President Ronald Reagan's life.

There is a solution to America’s energy crisis: Solar Energy. Solar technology requires far less time to develop than other energy sources. What can a small group of Jews accomplish by discussing this issue amongst themselves? Maimonides rules that even a single statement based on Torah, has the power to tip the scales for salvation. Past experiences have shown that issues discussed here, have reached Washington.

“Evil will come from the north.” The Soviet Union is a clear manifestation of this prophecy. At the same time, G-d bestowed the United States with the mission and the moral and material might to counter this evil. To succeed, however, America must be free of economic pressure from immoral dictatorships. If we rely on them for oil, this nation’s strength and influence is compromised.