Simcha is serious business - and tightly wrapped to our living in the world. Rabbi Berger asks the obvious question, why is it so easy to get sidetracked by things that won't make us happy, and at the same time ignore the things we know will lead to more joy? Is God holding out on us, or waiting for us to make a significant shift to be more in touch with ourselves?
If you could mitigate all the terrible pain and tragedy in the world today, would you try? Rebbetzin Braunstein profiles great Baalei Teshuva personalities who moved beyond their shady behavior using the powers of prayer and teshuva. For a fresh view of life, hear levels of greatness that are so inspiring just to feel.
Which is worse lashon hara or rechilus? Improper speech causes two forms of damage. In order to work on speaking in a more dignified manner, we must understand the fundamental issues behind shemiras halashon. In this lecture, Rav Berkovits includes the practical steps for doing teshuva for speaking lashon hara.
Which halachos are applicable to your family traditions, and how binding are they? This interesting talk delves into their criteria, and how different rabbonim base their decisions on such questions as: if the community you move to has different customs, getting married, determining what minhagimbaalei teshuva should follow, and more.
The special energy imbedded within the month of Elul is meant to be a launching pad for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Hear an in-depth step by step approach on taking stock of the year behind us, and on jump-starting the teshuva process to create a new page for the year to come.
The special energy that ushers in the Jewish month of Elul is the optimum time of year to take stock of how you can improve yourself for the upcoming year. Rav Yitzchak Berkovits gives a step by step process for serious people who want to jump-start their teshuvah at the beginning of the term, so to speak.
Oftentimes our plans for greatness seem to boomerang. What is G-d telling us when our growth seems to backfire? Rav Berkovits teaches us how to deal with the mundane, as well as giving straightforward guidance on how to chart a map for acheiving a turnaround in areas we often stumble in.
What does it mean that G-d remembers human actions? Rabbi Berkovits looks at what humans effect with what they do. Life is not about action, it’s about doing your best. Think that’s too pat? Look at Avraham’s quest for truth, overcoming the societal pressure for success that was obscuring it. We must use our intellect and our judgment to bring us to make the correct decisions.
There's a special energy in the Jewish month of Elul which we can tap into to improve ourselves and start the year anew. Hear this intensive series by Rav Berkovits that will jump-start your teshuvah and help you to get on the right track!
There's a special energy in the Jewish month of Elul which we can tap into to improve ourselves and start the year anew. Hear this intensive series by Rav Berkovits that will jump-start your teshuvah and help you to get on the right track!
There's a special energy in the Jewish month of Elul which we can tap into to improve ourselves and start the year anew. Hear this intensive series by Rav Berkovits that will jump-start your teshuvah and help you to get on the right track!
There's a special energy in the Jewish month of Elul which we can tap into to improve ourselves and start the year anew. Hear this intensive series by Rav Berkovits that will jump-start your teshuvah and help you to get on the right track!
There's a special energy in the Jewish month of Elul which we can tap into to improve ourselves and start the year anew. Hear this intensive series by Rav Berkovits that will jump-start your teshuvah and help you to get on the right track!
There's a special energy in the Jewish month of Elul which we can tap into to improve ourselves and start the year anew. Hear this intensive series by Rav Berkovits that will jump-start your teshuvah and help you to get on the right track!
Many people overlook the fact that teshuva is more than just correcting your past mistakes by saying ‘sorry.’ True teshuva implies changing who you are, and becoming who you want to be. Rav Berkovits, also an expert life coach, guides you through the tefillos (prayer) and avoda (service) of Rosh Hashanah. An experience you can take along to shul.
What part does viduy play within the Yom Kippur prayers? How much do we need to confess to fulfill the mitzvah - perhaps one word is enough. In explaining the text, Rabbi Berkovits brings viduy down to earth.
During the ten days of repentance there is a special mitzvah of tefillah - talking to Hashem whenever you can, about anything you need. This is coupled with teshuvah, changing out direction in life, and leaving the wrong we have done behind. But how can we change ourselves down to the depths of our gut instincts, and natural sense of enjoyment?
Teshuva during the day of Yom Kippur creates a special magic that is not available any other time. Rav Berkovits explains how to prepare for this once-a-year opportunity that sheds a lot of light on your current situation.
The 9th of Av isn't a strange day when we seem to be told to cry over spilled milk. It's actually the one time during the Jewish year that we stare facts in the eye, and acknowledge that there are consequences for our actions. To shrug and say - Oh, G-d understands that I sinned, and assume that He'll ignore it is a dangerous track to take. How does this deeper thread tie into fasting and the other laws of the day?
How in the world can teshuva remove a negative act that has already been done? Rabbi Carmell also questions if we can start by serving Hashem from less than ideal motivations until we reach doing it from pure intent. A fascinating and practical class on dealing with our physical limitations while still aiming towards higher goals.
Repentance is an ongoing interaction in our relationship with Hashem, and is one of the 18 blessings we ask G-d to help us with during our daily prayers. However, even with the urgency of doing teshuva so near to the Day of Judgement we somehow end up dealing with it in only the sphere of thought, and not with action. Hear how to forge a reality of 'time to change' into your hearts.
Teshuva is to focus on reality, and to change our attitude. Until we can appreciate the consequences of our actions, any changes we're hoping for will be elusive and hard to pin down. Come spend an hour in Rebbetzin Heller's reality to make the most of these last few days of introspection.
There are a number of habits we unknowingly cling to that hinder our doing teshuva. Rebbetzin Heller discusses a few of the major things we need to avoid, and how to correct them. Hear why we are attracted to such detrimental activities, including the tendency to criticize, and the resistance to own up once we've made a mistake.
Rosh Hashana is a momentous holy day packed with meaning. Rebbetzin Heller explains the significance of teshuva and what we should ask Hashem to help us change. She also explores how to relate to the sounds of the Shofar and the three main sections of prayer: Malchios, Zichronos, and Shofros.
Teshuva is the process of unraveling baked-in mistakes. Rebbetzin Heller helps us break through negative patterns that prevent us from shedding excess baggage, and how to best maneuver past obstacles that hinder us from successfully transforming our lives.
Sincere teshuva works even if we're confused or feel far away. During the course of Rosh Hashanah, we hear how a few of our greatest spiritual personalities were tested by growth. Mrs. Juravel looks at four blocks we face when approaching the idea of change. Avraham and Sarah and Dovid Hamelech show us a few ways.
Do we aspire to perfection? Not quite, says Mrs. Juravel. Learn about the great gift of teshuvah and the heights it can bring us to despite our failings and mistakes. This blessing portrays our desire for Hashem to accept us back after we’ve fallen. Learn about how our sense of shame is an excellent marker of how we view
How does one know if a ‘friend’ has done Teshuva? One element of true repentance is to see a person stumbling over and over in a certain way, and now acts differently when faced with the same test. Rabbi Kahn shares a fascinating viewpoint on the end of days, and how the times we live in are a final test to see how we’ve progressed.
If a terribly wrong act was done, is it ever possible to remove the stain? And how long is a person tainted by the evil they've done? Rabbi Kahn looks at the idea of change, how to reframe ones negative attitude towards cleaning it up, and at our amazing potential to create ourselves anew.
What does it take to get up from a fall? Many of us dread even the thought of it. God however, took this into account by creating the antidote of 'teshuva' before He completed creation. Using Rabbi Elazar ben Dudai's amazing Talmudic story of his encounter with a woman of ill repute, Rabbi Kahn shows how the subsequent necessary emotions he went through brought him to complete teshuva - on the spot.
Which is more important, to deeply feel regret for past actions, or to resolve to change in the future? After all, by feeling 'the past is past' and adding one good deed onto the next won't that be enough? On the other hand is it right to keep regret before us, without changing our actions? As the New Year looms on the horizon, Rabbi Kahn looks at Maimonides formula for clearing the slate.
As Jews, our purpose is to make Hashem and His ways beloved to all, which also includes frum Jews. Understanding this makes it clear as day how important Kiddush Hashem is. Join Rabbi Krohn for powerful ideas on Kiddush Hashem; the rewards of doing it inadvertently; how to include all your talents; and the teshuva needed after causing a Chillul Hashem. Hear riveting stories of organizations and people who shine in this area.
Even with a tiny bit of complete teshuva, God will deem that you have succeeded on Yom Kippur. So how come we find ourselves working on similar resolutions year after year? Perhaps you really didn't do teshuva! Real, permanent change is easier than you think. A must listen.
The process of repentance seems to take place only within the ratified spheres of the heart and soul. A basic question is why do jews include the physical sphere as a third essential part of the process? Hear Rabbi Kirzner's compelling reason why 'tears' and physical needs are necessary for teshuva in order to fully embrace the spiritual light that flickers within.
YosefåÕs fruit never spoils and seems to last forever, while Yehuda, the second kingdom of Klal Yisrael, seems to have the ability to decompose and collapse. Why then do we see that Yehuda is the one that endures forever, and that Mashiach will come from him? A deep class that traces the path of Teshuva, and Yehuda's ability to bring YosefåÕs greatness to the masses.
People often bandy about the idea of repentance, but how is it practically done? Rabbi Leff gives an in-depth analysis exploring the phenomenal gift of teshuva that reverses ones spiritual damage that should have been beyond repair. He focuses on the three step process for returning to God, with a deeper explaination of what each stage is meant to accomplish.
How do we make changes that last from year to year instead of watching them fizzle out soon after Yom Kippur? Rabbi Morgenstern offers a number of practical ideas and shows how even a small success is a big gain when Hashem reviews our overall progress.
The famous question asked is: if all our merits and mistakes of the past year were equal, why not just do one extra mitzvah to tip the scale, alleviating the need for repentance altogether? An excellent class explaining the strength that teshuva has in and of itself to grant forgiveness.
How do we understand that from just saying certain verses Hashem will give us a year of blessing? Join Rebbetzin Karlinsky as she examines the tefillos we say and the teshuva hidden within them. Learn why the power of the Akeidah was implanted deep within us, and what we are being judged for on the first and second days of Rosh Hashana.
If you've decided you need to change, the very first step is to know in which area, where to start and to what degree. With his uncanny understanding of human nature, Rabbi Orlowek paves the way for getting your direction clear - and to stay on track. Hear the vital first steps you need for regaining your confidence and your ability to change.
So powerful are the Shabbos prayers that Chazal compare them to the Aseres Yemei Teshuvah, (10 days of teshuva) when Hashem is eager to hear our cry for reunion. Rav Pincus describes how Shabbos and the Bais Hamikdash link up, and the sense of peace such a prayer brings in its wake.
Do Torah laws take into account feelings of moral anxiety? Join Rabbi Pliskin's energetic search to resolve the obvious tension that takes place within the phenomenon of teshuva. Learn to deal with others who hurt you, and to perceive yourself as truly wanting to change.
Terrorism and sudden death are a wake-up call that should force us to ask "what's the message in it for me?" Rabbi Stern emphasizes how much Hashem wants our teshuva, and why at times He resorts to extreme measures to get our attention. When we sin, he explains how we are like broken keilim that cannot be repaired, yet during Elul the rules can be tipped in our favor.
Blowing the Shofar during Elul should stir our need for Teshuva. But the truth is, Yom Hadin just doesn't seem so frightening any more. What can help wake us up from our deadened state of performing mitzvos from rote? Rav Stern gives a surprising answer, with practical advice from the Steipler Rav on the Teshuva we hope to arouse.
Most observant people know that God is much closer to us during 'the 10 days of Teshuva.' For instance, we know that when we pray in a minyan our prayers are more readily accepted, yet there are special times when they are accepted when we pray alone. And what is the power of tefillah that can propel us directly before the kisay hakavod?
Our Sages say "Search for Hashem When He is to be Found". But isn't God always findable when we look? In this thought-provoking talk on prayer and teshuvah, Rav Stern explains how to take a sharp look at your daily actions, and how to project their consequences on to the year ahead.
After prophet Yeshayahu tells Chizkiyahu HaMelech to prepare for death, soon after he prays to reverse the verdict, which Hashem grants. Yet by Chanah who prayed intensely for a child was only answered after 19 years. The Ten Days of Teshuva offer us a limited window to learn a bit more about tefilla’s power.
Considering the fact that teshuvah (repentance) is able to fully wipe clean certain actions from our slate, we can begin to appreciate the enormity of the gift. Rabbi Silinsky explains the idea of gehinnom in a way we can relate to, and describes what might happen if we don̢t deal with it. He also explains the concept of Jewish reincarnation.
Every generation contends with its own challenges and must find its own solutions. But for Elul and Tishrei there is a one-size-fits-all solution: Teshuva. Rabbi Wein examines this tool against the backdrop of current events and Jewish history, and shows how the universal tools of teshuva, tefilla, and tzedaka can transform you forever.
The ten days starting from Rosh Hashana through Yom Kippur is the most awesome period in the Jewish calendar - in terms of developing ones finer character traits. Rabbi Wein asserts that the history of teshuva is also the history of humanity. He brings Torah sources and amazing stories to show how teshuva not only builds us individually, but also as a nation.
In keeping with the introspective spirit of the Day of Atonement, Rabbi Wein delves into question that has perplexed the greatest of Jewish minds: why do we suffer through difficult times? Citing Torah sages and with stories of Jews who triumphed through the darkness of the Holocaust and Soviet Russia, Rabbi Wein sheds light on this difficult question and delivers an inspiring message about the power of teshuva.
In step with the introspective nature of the day, Rabbi Wein delves into a question that perplexes the greatest Jewish minds: why must we suffer through difficult times? Citing Torah sages, along with fascinating stories of Jews who triumphed through the Holocaust and Soviet Russia, Rabbi Wein gives an inspiring message on the strength of teshuva.
Raised in a house of trickery while meriting to marry the holy Yitzchak, Rivkah is the consummate baalas teshuva. Particularly because of her family background, she saw Eisav's faults long before her husband did. With insights from Chazal, Rabbi Wein paints a human portrait of this dynamic woman who took responsibility for the good and bad in her sons - as only a Jewish mother can.
What are you really living for? Hear one of Rav Noah's engaging Elulshmoozen for extra chizuk, inspiration and a new approach for changing gears. Start the month of teshuva one step ahead.
Besides hearing the most amazing real-life stories of people returning to Judaism, you'll laugh and marvel as Rav Noach takes you to the root of fundamental kiruv principles. Included are classic encounters like 'The 95-year-old Baalas Teshuva', 'An Atheist Uncle', and 'The Jewish Divinity Student.’
Teshuva is the work of the heart, and difficult work at that. Are we supposed to view ourselves as steeped in negativity, or should we anticipate being designated as tzaddikim in the end? Rabbi Weisz examines faulty mindsets that get in the way of feeling true regret.
The mitzvah of 'vidui' is the crux of teshuvah. But for it to work it needs be said in a way that is meaningful. So are we being asked to feel a certain way here? And where does asking others mechilah fit in? Join Rav Yaakov Weinberg as he crystallizes our vision to recognize that all mitzvos come from Hashem, and in what ways bein adam l'Makom mitzvos differ from bein adam l'adam.
What brings about the cleansing of the teshuvah process? Rav Yaakov’s careful analysis of the Rambam’s words brings to light the details that makes teshuvah more comprehensible and effective. Learn how Yom Kippur gives kaparah, and hear a fascinating discussion on intent vs. action with a Korban Chatas.
Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg adds new insight, and clarifies up to the middle of the 2nd perek of Rambam's Hilchos Teshuvah. An important Elul series on character correction.
Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg adds new insight, and clarifies up to the middle of the 2nd perek of Rambam's Hilchos Teshuvah. An important Elul series on character correction.
We all make mistakes, right? And many of us know how pointless it is to get caught up in any guilt trip. The sensible response appears to be: just move forward with a strong conviction to be a better person. So why are we steered to take an honest, regretful look at our past? Hear what teshuva is (without the guilt), and the reason why this formula works so well to move people into the new year with a fresh start.
Although we can never fully understand why the Holocaust happened, Rav Weinberg's discussion on suffering, punishment and teshuva in relation to the Churban Bayis Sheini shows the deeper underlying causes for large-scale tragedies. This talk is an important reminder of how history repeats itself.
Why is it that modern society has this fixation that all they undertake has to be exciting? Does just the thought of the laborious task of doing teshuva discourage you? Catch a few sparkling moments of genius from Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg - whose challenge to us for taking teshuva to heart may be the key for that important change in your life you've always been hoping for.