It’s nice to be nice … until something of vital importance is at stake. (“Parsha Perks” with Dr Michael Chighel | Vayigash)

Gefilte Fish shows us a school of gefilte fish and comments on the importance of Jewish Schools.

The Tzadick (righteous) is beyond our imagination of what makes one righteous.

One discovery will change your life in these four ways.

G-d constantly creates everything and directs each detail with intention and purpose.

Alone, betrayed, and enslaved, did Yosef become angry and bitter? Why does the Torah keep talking about Yosef’s good looks? How can we use Yosef’s three-pronged strategy thousands of years later? What is the real power of a role model? And how did Yosef fare in jail? We’ll answer all these questions and more in class three.

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.

Experience the miraculous exodus of the Jewish people out of the mighty Egyptian empire—in a unique, fun-filled (and educational) style!

On the 22nd of Shevat in 1988, the Rebbe's wife, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, passed away. The Rebbetzin was extremely modest, so not much is known about her life and little footage exists to allow for a comprehensive biography. This presentation, comprised of the Rebbe's own words following her passing, and first-hand accounts from people who merited to have met her, gives us a peek into the modest loyalty and sacrifice that the Rebbetzin showed. She stood unwavering at her husband's side, and by extension, dedicated her life to the Rebbe's thousands of followers around the world.

We know the facts on why we celebrate Chanukah, the Festival of Lights. But is that all? Could it be that the inner meaning of the holiday has been hidden from plain sight?

How to perform the havdalah ceremony at the conclusion of Shabbat and festivals.

A virtuous heroine. A wicked villain. It’s the ancient, true story of Queen Esther, brought vividly to life in a delightfully educational way.

Eli and Ezzy wonder what life would be like if they were still slaves in Egypt.

Sarah and Avi find a letter “mem,” and help him find a mitzvah that starts with the letter “mem.”

You can complain about your problems. You can cry about your circumstances. Or you can learn from Joseph and Benjamin.

Take an exciting trip back in time to the court of King Ahasuerus and his beautiful Jewish wife Queen Esther as you watch the dramatic story of the Jewish rebellion against Persian persecution.

The famous story from the Midrash about how Abraham destroyed the idols in his father's shop. An excerpt from the full DVD “Young Abraham”.

Feel the rhythm…hear the beat….and let your spirit get you jumping on your feet! Get ready to sing, dance and exercise together with Mendy and his friends in this exhilarating animated workout video for the whole family.

Experience the story of Chanukah as it comes alive in this real life presentation. This production from the Jewish Children’s Museum was performed live on Chanukah in 2006.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 170 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

Feel the rhythm…hear the beat….and let your spirit get you jumping on your feet! Get ready to sing, dance and exercise together with Mendy and his friends in this exhilarating animated workout video for the whole family.

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.

The fast of the Tenth of Tevet commemorates the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem (588 BCE), which culminated in the destruction of the first Temple. It is always observed in the week before or after the Torah reading of Vayigash, which relates the story of the dramatic encounter between Yehuda and Joseph. This class explores the inner connection between the two, and offers essential, spiritual guidance for achieving personal and collective redemption. (Likutei Sichos, volume 15)

Itche and Jono trade places for a day. Hilarity ensues.

It would be helpful to know the date of the final Redemption. But the Redemption would not be perfect were it brought about with such help. (“Parsha Perks” with Dr Michael Chighel | Vayechi)

A lesson from Jacob's blessing to his grandson Efraim.

Sometimes we see it coming. We warn our spouse or child, and they proceed to mess up. Isn’t this the time for tough love reprimand, to point out their errors? Learn how to most effectively support and rebuild the person who did wrong.

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.

The story of Jacob teaches us how to give meaning to the fleeting moments in life.

The Torah concludes the book of Genesis with the death of Joseph and the fact that he was interned - actually placed in the Nile - in Egypt. Yet we are enjoined by Torah to conclude a Torah subject on a positive note?! The answer sheds new light on both the end and beginning of the first book of the Torah. (Likutei Sichos vol. 30, talk 3)

Before his passing, Jacob blessed his sons. His youngest son, Benjamin, is praised and blessed: "Benjamin, like a wolf snatches his prey." Strange as this blessing appears on the surface, Rashi's explanations leaves us even more bewildered. This talk will illuminate Rashi's commentary and deliver a powerful message for our times. (Likutei Sichos, vol. 25)

How Reuven, Shimon, Levi and Yehudah represent four different phases we experience as we go through the order of the morning prayers: 1) Reuven—the first paragraph of Shema, 2) Shimon—the second paragraph of Shema, 3) Levi—the blessings after Shema, and 4) Yehudah—the Amidah prayer. (Based on the discourse "Yehuda Achecha Yoducha 5738.")

The Sages of the Talmud, in their debate whether one may discuss Torah while consuming a meal, address the existential quandary of whether it is better to transcend nature or conform to it. (Based on Likutei Sichos, Vol 35. Vayechi 3.)

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?

Jacob’s last years, spent in Egypt were the very best of his life; filled with true satisfaction and happiness. Whilst it’s not hard to understand that being reunited with Joseph, and seeing his family united and loyal to his hallowed ideals, would be a source of profound joy; there’s something decidedly unsettling about the prime Patriarch being happiest in a place filled with pernicious immorality and spiritual corruption. The Rebbe’s final rumination on this widely discussed subject is revolutionary in its novel approach and leads us into mind-expanding Kabbalistic ideas shedding new light on the age-old question: can people change?!

The Torah portion of Vayechi, as transcribed in the sacred Torah scroll, begins without the usual marking of a new portion. Join us as we probe the meaning behind this anomaly.

"[Jacob] blessed [Ephraim and Menashe] on that day, saying: With you, Israel will bless, saying, 'May G-d make you like Ephraim and like Menashe,'" (Genesis 48:20). Why do Jewish parents continue to this day to bless their children to be like these two grandsons of Jacob? An extra letter vav in the word "saying" holds the hint.

The Torah portion of Vayechi serves as a "bridge" between the book of B'reishis (Genesis) and the book of Sh'mos (Exodus.) The book of B'reishis relates the miraculous lives of our ancestors. The book of Sh'mos describes our descent into exile. It is the miraculous nature that we have inherited from our ancestors that gives us the power to survive exile. From Likutei Sichos, vol. 30, p.253

Study some of the highlights of the weekly Torah portion with insights from various commentaries.

The parshah of Vayechi contains 85 verses and the mnemonic for it are the words ‘Peh el Peh’ (which means “mouth to mouth”). Explore the coded message in this Masoretic note and its connection to the general themes of the Parshah.

Why does Jacob bless the righteous Benjamin as a wild wolf? How is this blessing a virtue? Discover a spiritual take on the positive skin-shifting traits of Binyamin.

This profound rumination about the last Patriarch’s unique final hours passes into a fascinating exploration into the custom of well-wishing one who sneezes. You’ll be shocked to discover the Torah-true origins to this seemingly superstitious practice, which then begs the question: why would an authentic Jewish practice enjoy near total universal appeal?

Up to his final terrestrial moment the Patriarch Jacob exhibits paranormal stamina, composure and clarity for a person about to pass, and in fact, a glaring scriptural omission indicates he never actually died! How on earth can that make any sense; especially as this entire portion is uniquely revolves around his death with multiple verses explicitly alluding to his demise? Finally, how was his body buried, and did it decompose? Incredible answers that tell us much about Jacob, Joseph and Tzadikim today!

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

In the fifth section of the Torah portion of Vayechi, Jacob's blessings to four of his sons are grouped together: "A troop marches forth from the tribe of Gad... The tribe of Asher will be a wellspring of olive oil... Naftali is a swift gazelle... Joseph, a robust grape vine by the spring…" All four blessings demonstrate vitality and initiative.

The Torah teaches us that Jacob’s best years were while living in Egypt during the final part of his life. Nevertheless, Jacob insisted on being taken to be interred near his parents and grandparents in the city of Hebron.

As a young child, the Tzemach Tzedek once asked the Alter Rebbe how Jacob’s best years could have been in Egypt, a land of immorality.

Why I envied the faith of a Jewish woman who claimed she was a non-believer.

Even after being reunited with his father, Joseph avoided spending very much time with him. Why? Because of the one question that Joseph feared his father would ask him.

The Fifteenth of Shevat marks the New Year for Trees, and the Rebbe encouraged men, women and children to celebrate the day with a Farbrengen, a joyful gathering where people inspire each other in the service of G-d.

What it really means that the 15th of Shevat is the New Year for Trees.

15 Shevat, the New Year for Trees, is when the sap is just beginning to flow, and the trees awaken from their winter sleep. But if the fruit is not yet growing, why do we celebrate the occasion by eating fruit?

Discover soul stirring insights into the incredible energy and significance of this little understood day known as the New Year for Trees! Learn why we celebrate a special Rosh Hashanah for trees and its profound relevance to us today.

The Mishnah enumerates four different New Year dates pertinent in Jewish law—one being the 15th of Shevat. Learn the Talmudic definition and legal relevance of these Rosh Hashanahs.

The Fifteenth of Shevat celebrates the New Year for Trees and the marks the beginning of a new fruit-bearing cycle in the Holy Land.

After tracing the origins and relevance of the New Year for Trees, Rabbi Kaplan explores the special significance of the bitter olive and its profound symbolism for us to persevere and flourish as Jews.

In addition to the regular Rosh Hashanah, the mishnah teaches that there are actually four different Rosh Hashanahs (New Years) on the Jewish calendar: the new year for kings, for festivals and for trees. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 36.)

A gathering celebrating the New Year for trees includes insights into the special theme of this holiday.

Can the New Year for Trees be a time for reflecting on the mitzvah of taking care of our health? Learn more about the meaning of Tu B’Shevat, and some of the health and healing properties of the fruits mentioned in Deuteronomy 8:8: “A land of wheat, barley, grapes, figs and pomegranates; a land of oil-yielding olives and [date] honey.”

Rabbi B sings about the seven special fruits and grains that the Land of Israel is blessed with: Wheat, barley, grapes, figs, dates, pomegranates and olives. (The chorus is based on the verse in Deuteronomy 8:8.)

Our proverbial New Year for Trees is celebrated by most Sephardic Jews (and more recently by many Israelis of Ashkenazi descent as well) with an elaborate fruit-centric sacred ceremony colloquially known as the “Tu B’Shevat Seder.” It’s comprised of carefully choreographed chanting of Scripture and Rabbinic texts, accompanied by an assortment of fruit and wine, which are consumed in an orderly fashion. But why invoke unique Passover verbiage for this fruitful observance? This fascinating presentation sheds light on some of the origins and profound meanings of this enigmatic Torah tradition.

In 1941, the Rebbe travelled to Marseilles, France, to obtain entry visas to the United States for himself and his wife, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka. While there, the Rebbe maintained his characteristic low profile, but at a gathering in honor of the New Year for Trees, he gave those present a taste of things to come. (1941)

Life isn’t just a bowl of peaches—there are coconuts in there too. That’s where all the challenges begin.

On the third day of creation, when G-d created plant life, all the nourishing produce of the fields sprouted forth, and every single tree bore fruit, becoming a source of delectable pleasure.

“Bosi L’Gani – I have come to My garden.” G-d created this world to be a glorious Divine orchard for His presence. Man is charged with planting and tending this orchard by creating a “fruit-bearing tree” out of his own portion of the world.

“Man is a tree of the field.” The Sages of the Talmud apply this verse to the Jew. Torah is the core of a Jew’s being, and Torah must effect his actions so that he bears good fruits — good deeds. But when we say that a Jew must be “fruitful,” first and foremost he must reproduce his own essence.

G‑d created plants and animals with the ability to procreate – to perpetuate themselves and reflect G‑d’s own Infinitude. Man, too, was granted the remarkable ability to reproduce, but was additionally blessed with the ability to harness and expand the infinite powers hidden within the rest of nature.

On Tu B’Shevat, the 15th of Shevat, we celebrate the New Year for Trees. It falls in the middle of the winter, when the sap is just beginning to flow. If the fruit is not yet growing, why do we celebrate the occasion by eating fruit?

The walnut is covered by a shell, and its fruit, its seed, can produce many more trees. So too, the Jewish people; outwardly they are like all other nations, but their inner purpose, their inner soul, is to produce spiritual fruit which yields even more fruit. (Collage)

The parsha of Yitro contains 72 verses and the mnemonic for is the word ‘yonadav’ (descendant of Yisro). Explore the coded message in the mnemonic and its connection to the general themes of the parshah.

“Take back all the ‘good fruit’ from the New Year of Trees, for all of Australia. May it ultimately be ‘A land of wheat and barley and grapes and figs and pomegranates, a land of olive oil and honey’ – with all the spiritual connotations.”

The Rebbe distributes fruits at a Farbrengen on Tu B’Shevat, New Year for Trees.

The distance between dreams and reality is discipline. Today's perseverance is tomorrow's success.

Understanding the concept of "dira betachtonim" that G-d asks us to create our world as a home for Him.

Want to be happy? Be like the heaping teaspoon, a "socheket" that overflows and shares of itself generously.

Learn a beautiful teaching of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, in loving memory of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. The source text is a sicha for parshat Vayechi from Likkutei Sichos vol.10—as adapted by Rabbi Sacks in his book “Torah Studies”. This sicha is being studied wo

Learn a beautiful teaching of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, in loving memory of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. The source text is a sicha for parshat Vayechi from Likkutei Sichos vol.10—as adapted by Rabbi Sacks in his book “Torah Studies”. This sicha is being studied wo

Learn a beautiful teaching of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, in loving memory of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. The source text is a sicha for parshat Vayechi from Likkutei Sichos vol.10—as adapted by Rabbi Sacks in his book “Torah Studies”. This sicha is being studied wo

Learn a beautiful teaching of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, in loving memory of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. The source text is a sicha for parshat Vayechi from Likkutei Sichos vol.10—as adapted by Rabbi Sacks in his book “Torah Studies”. This sicha is being studied wo

Learn a beautiful teaching of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, in loving memory of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. The source text is a sicha for parshat Vayechi from Likkutei Sichos vol.10—as adapted by Rabbi Sacks in his book “Torah Studies”. This sicha is being studied wo

Learn a beautiful teaching of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, in loving memory of Rabbi Jonathan Sacks. The source text is a sicha for parshat Vayechi from Likkutei Sichos vol.10—as adapted by Rabbi Sacks in his book “Torah Studies”. This sicha is being studied wo

Live satellite link-up of menorah lightings in three major cities on three continents. This French program is based out of Paris, and will hook-up with menorah lightings in Israel and New York.

Join the Viglers from Palm Beach, Florida as they share the joy of Judaism. In this Chanukah episode they present traditional potato latkes and its deeper meaning.

The Talmud lists three options whereby one can fulfill the mitzvah of lighting the Chanukah candles. The third - and most desirable option - is a matter of dispute between the Schools of Shamai and Hillel. This class addresses the underlying rationale of

How does Rashi know that Joseph wanted the Egyptians to circumcise before he would give them food? And why did he need them to do so, anyway? (From Likutei Sichos vol. 10, Mikeitz sicha 2)

G-d constantly creates everything and directs each detail with intention and purpose.

A live broadcast of the 10th annual Menorah lighting ceremony in downtown Detroit, called “Menorah in the D”. Featuring a full and exciting program to enhance your Chanukah.

The 41th Annual South Florida Chassidic Chanukah festival features a full concert with the highly popular Jewish superstar Mordechai Shapiro, and presents a spectacular light show. The night’s highlight is the lighting of Florida's largest Menorah.

A live broadcast of a grand Chanukah celebration in Brooklyn, featuring a live concert with singer Eli Marcus and the Pumpidisa Band.

Discover the profound inner dimension of Chanukah and the esoteric miracle that took place during this festival. Explore the underlying progression of the dissemination of Chassidus to the theme of Chanukah, including the advent of public menorahs in our

Join the live broadcast of the lighting ceremony of the National Chanukah Menorah located on the Ellipse at the White House in Washington D.C. Featuring musical performances by the “United States Navy Band” and "The Three Cantors".

Rashi insists that the town of Timna was perched on a mountainside, which teaches us an important lesson about spiritual growth. (From Likutei Sichos vol. 10, Vayeishev sicha 2)

What is the story behind this popular Jewish holiday? Watch this short 3-minute video to learn how good overcame evil, light won over darkness, and miracles triumphed over morass.

What is a Moshiach state of consciousness, as we endeavor to view everything through the lens of Geulah (Redemption) and rise beyond our exilic state? (This class is from a Neshei Chabad webcast on learning about Geulah)

Discover the revolutionary idea Chassidus introduces regarding G-d’s relationship with us that changes the whole picture. Every Rosh Chodesh an offering was brought in the Temple on behalf of G-d who requests of us to bring atonement on His behalf! This c

One discovery will change your life in these four ways.

Join a global webcast for women in learning about Moshiach and the future Redemption. Featured speakers: Mrs. Miriam Swerdlow, Mrs. Perel Krasjansky, Mrs. Leah Kohn, Mrs. Shterna Ginsberg and Rabbi YY Jacobson. (This program is hosted by Neshei Chabad in