Until his death in 1999, Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg was Rosh Yeshiva of Ner Yisroel in Baltimore. For more than 50 years, Rabbi Weinberg taught in various capacities at Ner Yisroel, as well as traveling the world imparting his wisdom to thousands of eager listeners. He is the older brother and mentor of Rabbi Noah Weinberg, the dean and founder of Aish HaTorah.
Living in God's presence, which is what the Succah is all about, is intended to alter the essence of who we are. How so? Rav Yaakov proves why focusing on all our blessings within the Succah experience will bring about a happiness that will necessarily be followed by a deeper connection to His Divine presence.
Shmini Atzeres isn't just an extra day of Sukkos - without a Sukkah. Hashem wants us to spend one extra day with Him before we depart back to our daily lives. Hear how this closeness translates into sealing the love and warmth we've created during all these holidays.
The Greeks were quite magnanimous to allow all the nations they conquered the freedom to practice their own pagan religion åÐ so long as Greek culture became an integral part of their lifestyle. What specifically was it about Jewish belief that enraged the Greek nation to stamp it out? Hear how Torah SheåÕBaal Peh (the Oral Torah) become the light and strength behind their victory.
Unlike other religions that espouse asceticism (withdrawal from physicality), Judaism instructs us to also elevate the material. Hear how Purim, a holiday jam packed with physical challenges of partying, laughter, gifts and drink - are designed to help us rise above the physical stumbling blocks. In fact, we are to perceive them in ways that will awaken their spiritual counterparts. Pure Rav Yaakov.
Many people are under the false impression that they’re happy. It is more likely that they’re just moving on the treadmill of life – with minimal progress. Rav Yaakov asks why are people searching for extreme stimulation, like TV or bungee jumping to feel alive? In this thought-provoking talk, join an exploration into the emotion of happiness, and how accessible it could be when approached from a different perspective.
Appreciating the uniqueness of a Jew is the basis for our continued existence as a nation. This inspiring examination takes a look at how we're able to maintain our kedusha and nobility of spirit even as we're performing the most mundane chores of living.
How can Jews accept upon themselves the term 'chosen people' when they also believe that racism is wrong? Hear a fascinating class on why the Jewish Nation is atypical with their bar raised higher than all the other nations. Paradoxically enough, being Jewish is not based on having a common land, language, or culture. So what precisely does 'being Jewish' really mean?
Drugs - homosexuality - crime - prayer in school. To what extent should åÔmorality' play in the formation of public policy regarding these and other issues? However, before we can find a fitting solution for these issues, the burning question to address is - to what extent do we as a society have to legislate values and lifestyles that other people choose to lead? Rabbi Yaakov Weinberg tackles this issue head-on in this open, controversial and very provocative talk.
Even an evil person thinks of himself as a good man. Rabbi Weinberg draws on many intuitive perceptions, along with many historical events to challenge and broaden your working definition of 'good' & 'evil.'
Is it really necessary to be religious to be regarded as a good person? Rav Yaakov tackles this question head on as he goes for a definition of good by using his vast knowledge of history, and the current events of his day to prove his point. A class full of back and forth action.