In this episode we explore the Noam Elimelekh’s radical insight that the very presence of darkness makes our light shine brighter. Beginning with Korach’s act of “separating himself” and the Genesis image of the rakia—­the luminous firmament that divides the waters—we uncover how contrast protects the sincere seeker and turns even small acts of goodness into radiant beacons. Rabbi Ben offers a concise teaching, a contemporary reflection for everyday life, and a short guided meditation to help you rest in the wholeness that emerges through imperfection.

In this episode, we explore a luminous teaching from Kedushat Levi on Parashat Sh’lach: that the glory of the Divine isn’t revealed through perfection or purity, but through our very human capacity to choose goodness in the face of struggle. Drawing on the mystical insight that free will is what makes our spiritual path meaningful, Rabbi Ben Newman reflects on how each moment of conscious choice—each act of compassion, restraint, or faithfulness—helps to fill the world with Divine presence.

This is a message of spiritual empowerment for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed, inadequate, or distant from holiness. Through real-life examples and soulful insight, we reframe the inner battle not as a failure, but as a sacred opportunity to partner with the Divine in revealing light.

Why does Rashi praise Aharon simply for not deviating from a command? In this episode of The Neshamah Project, we explore a deep teaching from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim on Aharon's unwavering integrity. We reflect on what it means to live in alignment so deeply that peace and flexibility become expressions of truth. Through the image of the menorah and the soul as a flame, we dive into the nature of spiritual leadership, the balance of emet (truth) and shalom (peace), and how we, too, can become vessels of light.

This week we dive into the Degel Machaneh Ephraim’s luminous reading of the Priestly Blessing, unpacking what it means for grace to be both given and recognized. You’ll hear an inclusive, gender-neutral translation of the text, a fresh reflection on why our inner radiance so often goes unseen, and a gentle guided meditation that helps you kindle your own spark while praying that the world—and your own eyes—are ready to notice it.

In this episode, we explore the Maor VaShemesh’s teaching on how true spiritual maturity moves from loud, visible striving to quiet, inward devotion. Drawing on Torah, prayer, and lovingkindness, we reflect on the path from struggle to deep, silent connection — and how, as Shavuot approaches, we help co-create the light we seek.

✨ A gentle reminder: even in stillness, you help lift the world.

This week, we explore teachings from Degel Machaneh Ephraim on Parashat Behar, offering guidance for modern spiritual seekers. What does it mean to be a “sojourner” with the Divine? How can we redeem the holiness hidden in our daily lives? From sacred exile to grounded truth, these Hasidic insights invite us to find meaning in vulnerability, mindfulness, and the rawness of real experience. Tune in for a journey through inner landscapes where even our struggles can become prayers.

We explore a mystical Hasidic teaching from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim on Parashat Emor—how Divine speech becomes healing or harmful depending on how we "combine the letters." Join me for a reflection on sacred interpretation, spiritual responsibility, and the redemptive power of words. I close the episode with an original spoken word poem inspired by this teaching.

In this episode, we explore a mystical passage from the Zohar (Pinchas 102:679) that unpacks the ancient Yom Kippur ritual of the two goats—one offered to YHVH, the other sent to Azazel. Through this lens, we reflect on the dual nature of spiritual work: reaching toward unity and compassion while also facing and integrating our inner shadows. Paired with teachings from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim, Meor Einayim, and Maor VaShemesh on the command to "be holy," we uncover a rich tapestry of insights about communal holiness, spiritual humility, and the ongoing journey of becoming. This episode is a deep dive into the paradox of wholeness: that holiness is found not by escaping the world, but by embracing it fully—together.

A soul-stirring teaching from Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl (the Me’or Einayim) on Metzora — how our words create worlds, how harmful speech diminishes Divine joy, and how Torah can heal and restore the sacred power of speech.

A deep reminder: Every word we speak is sacred ground.

In this week’s episode, we dive into a powerful teaching from the Me’or Einayim on Parashat Pinchas (with a nod to Shemini)—exploring the mystical link between Elijah, fiery longing, and the soul’s role in the unfolding of redemption.

Elijah, who is also Pinchas, carries the yearning of Nadav and Avihu—souls consumed in ecstasy. This gender-inclusive translation reveals how our own yearning, when united with mindful speech and sacred intention, becomes part of healing the world and restoring wholeness.

Listen now to awaken the spark of Messiah within.