How can giving up become the deepest way to receive? We begin with the Midrash of Moshe’s neshama and the “kiss” of death—nishikas peh—revealing mesiras nefesh as a mutual act of love, not coercion. Only Am Yisrael, bound by a bris of ahavah, are commanded to sanctify Hashem’s Name this way. Then we link that love to Shabbos Mincha—“va’al menuchasam yakdishu es Shimecha”—and the Arizal’s guidance to hold kavanah of mesiras nefesh at that moment. Shabbos is where the bond is clearest; love unlocks the will to give everything back to the One Who gave us ourselves.

Brought down to earth, this isn’t abstract heroism. It’s the quiet choice to yield—your schedule, your phone, your pride—because you love Hashem. Practical takeaway: at Mincha, whisper, “Ribono Shel Olam, I’m Yours,” and choose one small act of mesiras nefesh this Shabbos (a word held back, a mitzvah done first, a distraction put away) as your kiss of closeness.

Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!