The Neshamah Project

In this episode of The Neshamah Project, we explore a deep teaching from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim about the spiritual connection between work, wisdom, and rest. Drawing from the story of Bezalel, who built the Mishkan with divine wisdom, we uncover the powerful insight that spiritual experiences need to be grounded through action. But what happens on Shabbat, when that work is forbidden? How do...

In this episode of Rabbi Ben Newman offers poetic, interpretive translations of the Morning Blessings, and Modeh Ani inviting us to awaken with presence, gratitude, and wonder.

A commentary on Parshat BeShalach (specifically Exodus 14:15) by the Maor VaShemesh (R' Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl).

In this episode, we explore the Me’or Einayim’s mystical reading of Parshat Bo, which sees the Exodus story as an inner liberation of our awareness from “Egypt.” The commentary teaches that even mundane labors or tough experiences contain hidden sparks of divine wisdom, if we bring mindful attention to them. Ultimately, we move from constricted consciousness to the full light of oneness, redeeming...

In this episode of the Neshamah Project Podcast, Rabbi Ben Newman presents a deep exploration of Maor VaShemesh on Parashat Vaera. Through the lenses of Kabbalah and mindfulness, he unpacks the divine attributes of loving-kindness, awe and justice, and compassionate balance embodied by the patriarchs. Tune in to discover timeless wisdom for cultivating harmony and resilience in your spiritual jour...

In this episode of The Neshamah Project, we explore the Degel Machaneh Ephraim's profound teaching on Shemot 9, reimagining the burning bush as a symbol for distracting thoughts in prayer and meditation. Through the lens of the Baal Shem Tov's wisdom, we delve into how these "foreign thoughts" are not obstacles but opportunities to elevate hidden sparks of holiness within them. Discover how this t...

This guided meditation and teaching recording is drawn from a session Rabbi Ben Newman led at the Dharmakaya Center for Wellbeing in Cragsmoor, NY, on December 22nd, 2024. The practice is inspired by Abraham Abulafia’s mystical traditions, incorporating chanting, intentional head movements with the five vowel sounds, and mindfulness of the four dimensions—body, heart, mind, and spirit. It’s a jour...

In this episode, Rabbi Ben presents a profound teaching from the *Degel Machaneh Ephraim* on the transformation of Jacob to Israel. Through a mystical lens, we explore Jacob’s wrestling with God and man, his ascent from constriction to expansiveness, and the deeper significance of his name change. Drawing on the *gematria* connection between *Elohim* (God) and *HaTeva* (nature), Rabbi Ben reveals...

A teaching from the Degel Machneh Efraim on Parshat Vayetzei with an explanation for how it applies today and a guided meditation.

For those on Spotify who didn't get this episode because they didn't post it because it was "music," I have uploaded this again with some speaking at the beginning. Hopefully it will work this time for Spotify listeners.

In this episode, we explore a teaching from the Degel Machaneh Efraim on Abraham as the embodiment of the Torah, living a life woven with wisdom, awe, and divine presence. Through meditation and reflection, we uncover how Abraham's path invites us to cultivate spiritual wholeness and become vessels for Shechinah’s abundant blessings in our daily lives.

In this episode, Rabbi Ben Newman guides a meditation on presence, inviting us to let go of past regrets and future worries. Rooted in ancient wisdom, this practice opens us to the freedom and quiet joy of being fully present, embracing the moment with compassion and awareness.

In this episode, Rabbi Ben Newman explores the Baal Shem Tov's insights on spiritual growth through a mystical lens. Reflecting on Parshat Noach, Rabbi Ben delves into how the Baal Shem Tov compares the spiritual journeys of Noah and Abraham, shedding light on their unique paths toward the Divine. Through stories and teachings, Rabbi Ben brings to life the Baal Shem Tov’s metaphor of a parent guid...

In this episode Rabbi Ben Newman presents a guided meditation on teshuvah/returning.

In this episode Rabbi Ben Newman shares a story about how we view time from the Seer of Lublin.

In this episode, I present an interview I did with my friend Moshe Lev (Robert) Greenblatt in around 2004. He discusses early Jewish renewal, and his post Holocaust struggle with God. Here is his Wikipedia page:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Greenblatt_%28anti_war_activist%29

Commentary on Parshat Va-Era from Rabbi Ben Newman and Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl.

In this enlightening episode of the Neshamah Project, Rabbi Ben Newman delves into the profound depths of Parshat Shemot, guided by the insightful commentary of Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl. This discussion unveils the spiritual exile of awareness experienced by the Israelites in Egypt, a metaphor for our own times when consciousness can feel trapped by the mundane and material.

In this episode of the Neshamah Project, Rabbi Ben Newman delves into the mystical teachings of the Degel Machaneh Ephraim on Parshat Vayishlach, exploring its profound spiritual insights. Rabbi Newman offers a unique interpretation that emphasizes mindfulness and the elevation of the material world to divine consciousness. Join us for a journey through ancient wisdom, interpreted through the lens...

In this episode we delve into a commentary of Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl on Parshat Toldot.

Some readings from Rebbe Nachman of Bratslav on joy and suffering.

Four Worlds Meditation for Healing and Connection: Embark on a 20-minute transformative journey through the Kabbalistic framework of the Four Worlds. This meditation guides listeners from the tangible realm of Asiyah (Action) to the transcendent sphere of Atzilut (Emanation), fostering a deep connection to one's physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual layers. Designed as a beacon of solac...

In this short meditation for Sukkot journey through the spiritual dimensions of the Seven Directions – East, South, West, North, Up, Down, and Inside. Embrace the elements of air, fire, earth, and water, and connect deeply with the realms of spirit, the Holy Blessed One, and the immanent divine presence. This serene session harmonizes your soul with the universe's energies, providing grounding, cl...

Join Rabbi Ben Newman in this evocative episode of The Neshamah Project as he delves into the profound theme of impermanence, symbolized by the fragile walls of the sukkah. Drawing inspiration from the Mei HaShiloach's tale of Rabbi Yehoshua's encounter with the Athenian sages, Rabbi Newman weaves together the teachings of Kohelet, the ephemeral nature of the sukkah, and the grounding practices of...

Step into the serene fields of Elul with this guided meditation. Tradition whispers that the Divine awaits us in these meadows, ready to listen and connect. Traverse a landscape of reflection, encounter the radiant Presence, and emerge with blessings and insights to illuminate your High Holy Days and beyond.