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The Passover Seder isn’t just a tradition....it’s an invitation. Not just for guests around your table, but for you. An invitation to show up emotionally, spiritually, and vulnerably. This class explores five Seder moments that, when fully embraced, can transform your night from ritual to revolution.

We’ll journey from the cracked matzah to the humble matzah, from our collective memory to our personal growth, from the bitterness of trauma to the sweetness of faith. Discover why incompletion is a gift, how humility is the key to freedom, and why the Seder might just be history’s original group therapy session.

5 Key Takeaways:

1. Invite Yourself In
   The opening words of the Seder aren’t about inviting others—they’re about inviting yourself. Your full, vulnerable, questioning, present self. This is your moment to enter the story, not as a spectator, but as the protagonist.
2. Celebrate What’s Broken
   Yachatz teaches that brokenness isn’t a defect—it’s a doorway. By honoring what’s missing, we create space for growth, connection, and Divine presence. Real healing begins when we stop pretending to be whole.
3. You Are Part of a 3,337-Year Legacy
   While other civilizations forget, we remember. The power of the Seder is memory with mission: to remind us that no matter where we are, freedom is always the next chapter if we have the courage to write it.
4. Humility is Freedom’s Secret Ingredient
   Matzah isn’t just flat—it’s freeing. The opposite of ego isn’t weakness; it’s openness. Freedom requires the courage to say, “Maybe I don’t know everything.” That humility invites new beginnings.
5. Freedom Begins in the Heart
   Egypt isn’t just a place—it’s a mindset. It’s the voice that says, “This is how it’s always been.” But G-d gave us a hidden “escape hatch”—a shift in perception, a crack of hope, a step toward healing. Your freedom begins when you stop being “right” and start being real.

#Passover #seder #freedom #matzah #Jewish #Judaism #pesach

Passover Seder, Freedom, Matzah, Humility, Jewish Identity, Vulnerability, Brokenness, Personal Growth, Group Therapy, Jewish Memory, Healing, Transformation, Ego, Yachatz, Exodus, Egypt, Legacy, Soul Work

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The Exodus from Egypt was not just a historical event—it was a revolution in human consciousness. Moses didn’t only break the physical chains of slavery; he shattered the psychological and spiritual limitations that kept humanity in bondage. This class explores how the Exodus introduced the language of freedom, inspiring revolutions, civil rights movements, and personal transformation throughout history. We will uncover how the lessons of Pesach continue to empower us to break free from limitations, redefine our identities, and pursue a life of purpose and growth.

Key Takeaways:

1. Slavery is a Mentality: The true bondage in Egypt was not just physical but a deeply ingrained mindset of submission and despair.
2. The Power of Language: Moses introduced a new vocabulary of freedom, instilling in humanity the idea that change is possible.
3. Exodus as a Blueprint: The story of the Exodus has fueled countless movements for justice, from the American Revolution to the Civil Rights movement.
4. Personal Redemption: Every time we overcome fear, bad habits, or societal expectations, we reenact the Exodus in our own lives.
5. Pesach as an Eternal Spring: Just as Passover must always fall in spring, the message of renewal, hope, and transformation is timeless.

#Passover #Judaism #Pesach #Moses #freedom #personalgrowth #personalresponsibility #civilrights #humandignity #Redemption #chabad #Rabbi #jewishholiday 

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Plato argued that reality is found in perfect, unchanging ideals, while the physical world is merely a flawed reflection. Chassidic thought challenges this notion, asserting that G-d’s presence is found precisely in the imperfect, physical world. Through the lens of this debate, we explored how this idea impacts our relationships, personal growth, and spiritual journey—showing that meaning and divine purpose emerge from engaging with reality as it is, rather than escaping to an idealized version of it.

Key Takeaways:

• Plato’s philosophy separates the ideal from the real, placing truth in abstract perfection.
• Kabbalah teaches that G-d’s presence is in the here and now, within life’s imperfections.
• The Torah’s repetition of the Mishkan’s construction emphasizes that holiness is not in a divine blueprint but in human action.
• Growth, relationships, and meaning are found in embracing life’s struggles, not escaping them.
• True beauty is not perfection—it’s the courage to build something holy in an imperfect world.

Notes: 

See Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, The Dignity of Difference, for a detailed explanation of this idea of Plato and its impact on Western thought.

"G-d desired a dwelling in the lowly realms" (Midrash Tanchuma, Nasso 16);  "This is what man is all about, this is the purpose of his creation and of the creation of all worlds, supernal and ephemeral" (Tanya, chapter 36).

#Kabbalah #Judaism #Plato #Rabbi #chabad #Jewish #Bible #BibleStudy #Torah #TorahPortion #TorahLessons #Vayakhel #ParshatVayakhel

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Anti-Semitism is not merely another form of bigotry or racial hatred—it is unique in its universality, its persistence throughout history, and its deep, irrational roots. From Pharaoh to Hitler, from ancient Persia to modern-day university campuses, the Jew has been targeted with a singular, unparalleled intensity. Why? What makes this hatred different from all other hatreds?

This class delves into the core of Jew-hatred, exploring its historical patterns and its spiritual roots. The Talmudic parable of the "mound and the ditch" reveals that anti-Semitism is not simply about economics, politics, or cultural tensions—it is about something much deeper. The world has an innate reaction to the presence of the Jew, a reaction that stems from the unique role that the Jewish people play in history as the bearers of Divine morality.

Through the lens of Torah, the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, and a contemporary analysis of world events—including the resurgence of anti-Semitism post-October 7, 2023—this class seeks to answer the unanswerable: Why does the world hate the Jew? And, more 

importantly, how should we respond?

Key Takeaways:

1. A Hatred Like No Other – Anti-Semitism has persisted for thousands of years across all cultures and ideologies, defying conventional explanations.
2. The "Mound and the Ditch" Paradigm – The Talmud describes two types of anti-Semites: those who see Jews as an unwanted obstacle and those who feel an existential void because of Jewish morality.
3. The Sinai Connection – The world’s rejection of Jewish existence is linked to our mission as bearers of Divine ethics, which some embrace and others resent.
4. Appeasement Does Not Work – History has proven that trying to minimize or hide Jewish identity never quells anti-Semitism; it often exacerbates it.
5. The Jewish Response – Strengthening our connection to G-d, embracing Torah and mitzvot, and standing firm in Jewish pride is the only true antidote to anti-Semitism.

#Antisemitism #Judaism #Purim #JewishHistory #Haman #Rebbe #habad #chabad #Jewishsurvival #Talmud #Jewish #MoralCourage #MoralResponsibility #JewishIdentity 

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The Midrash compares Haman’s plot against the Jews to a foolish bird attempting to drain the sea, beakful by beakful. At first glance, this fable highlights the impossibility of eradicating the Jewish people. But upon deeper examination, it reveals the secret of Jewish survival, the core reason for antisemitism, and the unbreakable bond between the Jewish soul and Torah. Haman’s mistake was in thinking that severing Jews from Torah would make them vulnerable to destruction—yet, as history has shown, even when Jews have drifted from their spiritual roots, their intrinsic connection to G-d and Torah remains. This class explores why the Jewish people have endured against all odds and what this means for our own Jewish identity today.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Midrash’s Metaphor – Haman’s attempt to destroy the Jews was as foolish as a bird trying to empty an ocean. But why? This metaphor reveals deeper truths about Jewish resilience.
2. The Secret of Antisemitism – Haman, like many persecutors throughout history, saw Jewish existence as a threat. Why have so many tyrants sought to destroy the Jewish people?
3. The Relationship Between Jews and Torah – The Torah is to Jews what water is to fish. Even when Jews drift, they cannot fully detach from their Divine essence.
4. G-d’s ‘Unsuccessful’ Plan – The Midrash states that even G-d could not destroy the Jewish people. What does this mean, and what does it teach us about the Jewish soul?
5. Haman’s ‘Final Solution’ – His real plan wasn’t just genocide—it was to dry up the Jewish connection to Torah and assimilate them into Persian society. This strategy failed, just as all others have throughout history.
6. The Eternal Bond – The Jews have outlived every empire that sought their destruction, proving that their essence is eternal.
7. A Call to Jewish Unity – If a Jew was Jewish enough for Hitler to send to the gas chambers, he is Jewish enough for us to love and embrace. Jewish survival is not just a historical fact—it is a personal responsibility.

#Purim #Jewish #Antisemitism #Judaism #Faith #Rabbi #chabad #Jewishsurvival #Torah #BookofEsther #Megillah

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Dive into the profound spiritual significance of Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish 'New Year for Trees.' This class unravels how this ancient day, once focused on tithing fruits as per Talmudic teachings, evolved into a powerful tool for cosmic repair, as revealed by Kabbalistic wisdom. Discover how the simple act of eating fruits during the Tu B'Shvat feast isn't just a culinary delight but a ritual of mending the rift caused by Adam and Eve's original mistake. Learn how enjoying these earthly delights reconnects us with the Divine, transforming our physical world from a barrier into a bridge to spiritual fulfillment. Join us in exploring how Tu B'Shvat is not just about fruit, but about turning our earthly pleasures into paths to divine connection and making the world a bit more like paradise with every bite.

#TuBShvat #SpiritualFeast #CosmicHealing #JewishTradition #KabbalahInsights

You can join Rabbi Bernath every Thursday at 9am EST for a fantastic conversation on Zoom. Just email [email protected] to get the zoom link.

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This class explores the seminal Chassidic discourse Basi LeGani, first written by the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, and later expanded upon annually by his successor, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson. This discourse outlines the purpose of creation: transforming the world into G‑d’s garden, a place of divine presence. It introduces the responsibility of the “Seventh Generation”—our generation—to complete this mission and usher in the final redemption. Through themes of personal transformation, divine revelation, and the power of "holy folly," we uncover the Rebbe's call to action: to bring G‑d’s presence into every aspect of the world.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Garden is Our World – Basi LeGani describes G‑d's desire to dwell in this physical world, not just in the heavens. Our task is to make the world a home for Him.
2. The Mission of the Seventh Generation – Like Moses, the seventh leader in his lineage, our generation—the seventh since the Alter Rebbe—is tasked with completing the divine plan.
3. Transforming Darkness into Light – The discourse emphasizes that our struggles with the “inner animal” are part of the mission; by channeling our desires toward holiness, we refine ourselves and the world.
4. Holy Folly – True service of G‑d sometimes requires acting beyond logic, just as the Tabernacle was built from shittim (wood related to shtut, folly). We must counter worldly foolishness with a deeper devotion that transcends reason.
5. A Call to Action – The Rebbe’s words demand more than study—they require us to actively bring others closer to Torah and mitzvot, ensuring that no soul is left behind in preparing the world for Moshiach.

#chabad #Rebbe #chassidic #basilegnai #lubavitch #LubavitcherRebbe #Shechinah #YudShevat

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On Yud Shevat 5711 (1951), the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi MM Schneerson, revolutionized Jewish leadership. He declared a bold vision, not merely to anticipate Moshiach in a distant future, but to actively work towards this era in our lifetime. This audacious goal was set against the backdrop of post-Holocaust Jewish reality, challenging every Jew to contribute to this ultimate redemption.

The Rebbe's approach to leadership was groundbreaking. He insisted on a partnership model, where he would guide, but each individual was responsible for their own spiritual and worldly contribution. This was exemplified in his Sunday interactions, where the simple act of giving a dollar for charity transformed recipients into 'shluchim,' agents of positive change and personal responsibility.

The essence of the Rebbe's philosophy was beautifully encapsulated in his interaction with Gabriel Erem. Rather than focusing on his own greatness, the Rebbe redirected attention to the potential within every Jew. By redefining 'tzadik' and 'rebbe,' he democratized spiritual greatness, making it accessible to all. His teachings continue to inspire a vision where personal achievement and universal perfection are inextricably linked, empowering every Jew to be a leader in their own right.

You can join Rabbi Bernath every Thursday at 9am EST for a fantastic conversation on Zoom. Just email [email protected] to get the zoom link.

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This class does a deep dive into the  psychological and mystical significance of Pharaoh’s final confrontation with Moses before the tenth plague. Throughout the first nine plagues, Pharaoh displayed a surprising level of tolerance towards Moses, despite the devastation he brought upon Egypt. But after the plague of darkness, something shifted—Pharaoh snapped and threatened Moses' life. Why was this the breaking point? Through Kabbalistic insight, we explore the Pharaoh within us all: the force that disconnects intellect from heart, numbing us to truth. Like an addict resisting recovery, Pharaoh’s descent into darkness mirrors the way we sometimes silence our own inner voice of conscience. Moses’ slap was not just an act of defiance—it was a symbolic moment marking Pharaoh’s complete spiritual collapse.

Key Takeaways:

1. Pharaoh vs. Moses as an Inner Struggle: Pharaoh represents the ego’s resistance to change, while Moses is the voice of our moral conscience.
2. Why Darkness Was the Breaking Point: The plague of darkness symbolizes the moment a person loses not only emotional awareness but also intellectual perception, making true transformation nearly impossible.
3. The Danger of Losing Sight: A person may endure emotional and even intellectual corruption, but as long as they retain a glimmer of awareness—of something greater than themselves—there is still hope.
4. The Addict’s Battle: Many struggle with self-destructive behaviors, hating yet needing their inner “Moses.” The moment they fully reject that voice, they risk losing themselves entirely.
5. Moses’ Slap as a Spiritual Statement: The slap symbolizes that Pharaoh had lost all divine presence within him. He was no longer just a cruel oppressor; he was a man who had extinguished his own soul.

This class challenges us to consider: Are we listening to our inner Moses, or are we allowing our Pharaoh to take over? And most importantly—have we reached a point of darkness where we no longer even see the battle?

#Bible #Passover #Moses 

#BibleStudy #TorahLessons #Torah #Bo #Pharaoh #moshe #Kabbalah #TorahPortion #Sermon #Rabbi #chabad 

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This lecture explores the profound parable of The Thief by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, who teaches that every soul contends with an inner thief—an inclination that robs us of our divine light. Drawing parallels between this concept and the Ten Plagues, Rabbi Bernath delves into how each plague symbolizes a distortion of the ten faculties of the soul, as described in Kabbalah. These ancient episodes of spiritual dysfunction mirror the psychological struggles we face today. Through understanding the anatomy of our soul and the symbolic meaning of the plagues, we uncover a roadmap to self-recovery and spiritual transformation.

Takeaways:

1. The Inner Thief: Recognizing the negative impulses within us is the first step to reclaiming our inner peace.
2. Plagues as Life Lessons: The Ten Plagues symbolize spiritual dysfunctions in the soul, offering timeless lessons for introspection and growth.
3. Refinement of the Soul: Each plague corresponds to a faculty of the soul—confidence, compassion, love, and others—highlighting the necessity to channel these energies positively.
4. Path to Redemption: Liberation from our "Mitzrayim" begins with honest self-awareness, confronting our inner distortions, and returning to our divine purpose.
5. The Power of Recovery: Even when the thief within seems to have consumed all, recovery and renewal are always possible.

#Kabbalah #TenPlagues #Judaism #Jewish #Egypt #Mitzrayim #InnerThief #Sprirital #JewishHistory #Bible #Exodus #Vaera #TorahPortion #Torah #TorahLessons 

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