Understanding the concept of "dira betachtonim," G-d asking us to turn our world into a home for Him.

The sages state that “all sevenths are cherished.” This is the reason, they explain, why Moses was the one who merited to bring G-d’s Presence into this world—because he was the seventh from Abraham.

Silence can be the most devastating sound possible; yet at times also the most rewarding. How is your silence?

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

There’s nothing funny about somebody stepping on a rake. So try not to laugh during this week’s exciting webisode.

Learn the basics of which foods are kosher, how to shop for kosher foods and keep a kosher kitchen, and why this mitzvah is so important.

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

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 Unity of G-d

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.”

Watch children host a Chanukah celebration and a grand dreidel game especially for kids!

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.

As we prepare to take our first steps as a free nation on a journey that would stretch millennia, G-d teaches us the secret of our essence.

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.

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.

What's Yom Kippur all about? Why do we not eat and drink? Learn about Yom Kippur with Rebbetzin Tap!

Being Jewish is fun in so many ways. Why do you like being Jewish?

G-d's names are expressions of one single Entity, reflecting Him and how He interacts with the reality He creates.

Study the daily lesson of Sefer HaMitzvos for day 195 with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan, where he teaches the mitzvah in-depth with added insight and detail.

The Rebbe discusses the importance and merit for all to have a letter in the unity Torah Scroll.

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.)

Join a group of girls as they learn to bake Challah for Shabbat.

Join Eli as he makes everybody’s favorite: chicken soup with matzah balls for the Shabbat meal.

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.

There’s nothing funny about somebody stepping on a rake. So try not to laugh during this week’s exciting webisode.

Is there an ideal velocity for kicking a bad habit? When the Israelites left Egypt, they did so "in a rush" (behipazon). While the soul could take its own good time in detaching itself from an addictive situation, the body is not so patient.

As we prepare to take our first steps as a free nation on a journey that would stretch millennia, G-d teaches us the secret of our essence.

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?

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.

Torah law does not accept the testimony of witnesses who are related to each other. However, with respect to the witnesses required to establish the day a new month begins – via a sighting of the 'new moon' – Rabbi Shimon is of the opinion that the testimony of relatives is admissible; in contrast to the view of the Sages (Talmud, Rosh Hashana 22b). This class will explain both positions on the matter, and the relevance to our lives. (Likutei Sichos vol. 21)

The night before they left Egypt, the Children of Israel were commanded to eat matzah and bitter herbs together with the Paschal lamb "waist-belted, shoes on your feet and staff in your hand". Thus class will explore the spiritual dimension of this dress-code and its guidance for our personal exodus. (Based on the maamor V'kocho 5737)

The plague of darkness did not affect the Jewish people, as the Torah says (Exodus 10:23), "For Israel, there was light in all the places they were." Rashi differ from the Midrash as to whether this light was one of the miracles of the plague. This class explores the nature of this miracle and it’s illuminating message for our lives. (Based on Likkutei Sichos vol. 31)

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?

We’re all familiar with the four sons at the Seder, which are enumerated in the Passover Haggadah. Interestingly, there seems to be special attention given to the wicked or rebellious son, which begs the question why?

The Torah truism that G-d’s Mitzvot were designed to refine our character, and make us better people would lead us to assume that this strategy to living life appropriately would certainly be reflected in the first Mitzvah. Yet, in identifying that very commandment, this axiom seems to ring hollow. A scriptural detail leads us to an enigmatic teaching in the Zohar, whose elucidation - drawn from profound Kabbalistic insight into human consciousness - ultimately most vividly demonstrates how the first Mitzvah does indeed provide the foundational recipe to correct character building and the maximization of our personal potential!

In chapter twelve of Exodus, G‑d gives the Jewish people their first mitzvah: “sanctifying the month”—to establish the calendar based on the lunar cycle (the rebirth of the moon). Why is this the first mitzvah?

Three times in the Torah the word "ha-shvi-i" (the seventh) is missing a letter yud. (The first time is in this week's portion in Exodus 12:15.) When spelled this way, the word may also be read as "shavua" (oath) or "soveia" (satiated.) What is the connection between seven, swearing, and satiation, and how do they describe the process of the soul's descent into a body?

The first mitzvah given to the Jewish people before they even left Egypt was to sanctify the new moon and keep a calendar. A careful study of the verse (Exodus 12:2) "This month shall be for you the beginning of months."

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

The parsha of Bo contains 105 verses and the mnemonic for is word ‘yimneh’ (son of Asher). Explore the coded message in the mnemonic and its connection to the general themes of the Parshah.

Learn the many layers of meaning to the Torah’s instruction to guard and watch the Passover matzahs.

The plague of darkness was incredibly dense and intense for the Egyptians, while the Israelite nation enjoyed a miraculously bright and lit-up environment. This class will shed light and reveal obscure facets of this remarkable plague, and the layers of purpose it served in preparation for the Exodus.

In the Biblical narrative of the 10th plague; the silence of the dogs seems deafening. Why does the Torah lavish so much attention to muzzled barking at a time of widespread death and devastation? During the course of this investigation, we reveal the unique Torah take on the close connection that people have had with dogs since the dawn of human history. Canine lovers will appreciate this fascinating class’s bark and bite, although the conclusion doesn't necessarily endorse the person-pet relationship paradigm.

A profound presentation on the verses that segue into the very first Mitzvah we receive as a nation—the Sanctification of the Moon. Learning about our unique Jewish calendar, which incorporates a synergy balancing both the seasonal or solar calendar with the lunar or monthly method of keeping time, leads us to an understanding of why we label the months in a particular way. Yet, we seem to have abandoned this, opting instead for foreign nomenclature. Why?! Fascinating facts, incredible insights and sacred sparks are set into orbit to provide an inspiring explanation.

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

We’re all drawn to light. Physical light – daylight, candle light, sunshine – and to those people who seem to give off a luminescence. Do we need to be around certain people or environments to create light for us? Learn how to shine your own light and never let it dim.

G-d's command to Moses, "Come to Pharaoh," as a message to each one of us and its connection to the day of 10 Shevat. Presenter: Rabbi Wichnin

Slaughtering the lamb in Egypt teaches us that there are no logical solutions to counter the darkest forces. G-d acts above reason when we do.

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.

On the eve of the presidential transition between the Carter and Reagan administrations, the Rebbe provided perspective on the meaning and importance of majority rule, on the need for due gratitude together with disagreement, and on the importance of trus

Silence can be the most devastating sound possible; yet at times also the most rewarding. How is your silence?

Judaism teaches us to grow and develop our own unique, original and dynamic imprint on this world. Yet at the same time, we look to the unchanging stability and values of our past.

We don't need to fall to rock bottom to find our faith in G-d, but when challenging times are upon us, we can find our rock solid faith in G-d, the "rock" of Israel.

Having identified the circumstance that obligate us to acknowledge G-d’s deliverance and kindness, we now focus on just how we are supposed to express those sentiments of gratefulness and appreciation to the Creator of universe. (Talmud tractate Berachot

G-d's names are expressions of one single Entity, reflecting Him and how He interacts with the reality He creates.

Discover how you are capable of doing more.

Are we utilizing our gifts towards their intended purpose?

Real transformation comes from within.

We have the innate ability to transcend our current struggles, however burdensome they seem to be, and leave Egypt in a real way. Based on a Discourse of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

The battle of your souls within to control without. Who will get to wear the crown?

G-d’s statutes serve as segues into salvation. Discover why it’s so, as we contemplate the complicated relationships between Divine Mercy, Justice and Redemption that can allow you to soar above and beyond your challenges! Learning the verses for the lett

How can we as individuals forge a relationship with G-d in His all encompassing reality? An adapted discourse of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Detailed instructions for the novice on how to properly observe and experience Shabbat.

Chana Spiro battled a life-threatening cancer when she was 18. She is now undergoing treatment for infertility with her signature resolve and positive perspective.

How clothing makes the person and the garments of our soul.

Why the coming of Moshiach is a fundamental pillar in Judaism.

How to train our perception to view our world, when our situation seems so negative.

Chana Weisberg interviews Miriam Raskin about her journey to overcoming her eating disorders and depression and ultimately thriving in life with the discovery of the depth of Chassidic teachings.

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

Understanding the concept of "dira betachtonim," G-d asking us to turn our world into 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