Think Jewish

This class we learned about the different levels of awe and love for God. We discussed how awe leads a person to serve God with respect, while love creates a deeper desire to connect with Him. We also learned that there are different levels of spiritual growth, and that reaching higher levels takes time by building one step at a time.

In this class we learned the difference between lower and higher levels of fear of God. We learned the quote from Pirkei Avot, “Where there is no wisdom, there is no fear, and where there is no fear, there is no wisdom.” The lower level is knowing God is watching us and following mitzvot, while the higher level is feeling humbled in God’s presence and connecting to God Himself, not just His power...

In this class we focused on developing awe of God through meditation and connecting the mind and heart. We explained that feelings of reverence are important, but lasting service of God must also be built on steady acceptance and commitment, since emotions come and go. Using examples like surveillance cameras, kings, and stars, We showed how people can recognize God’s presence even when it is not...

In this class we learned that God knows everything not by watching us from the outside, but because everything is part of Him. We explained this with the example of how a person naturally knows what is happening in their own body. We also learned that even though we can understand some things about God through thinking and learning, there will always be parts beyond human understanding that requir...

In this class we learned about the idea of Daas, which means having a deep connection between what you understand in your mind and what you feel in your heart. We explained that it’s not just about knowing something, but about making it feel real and personal, almost like a physical experience. We described how this happens in stages. First, a person thinks deeply about an idea, then they come to...

In this class we learnt that Daas means connecting what we know to what we feel. We talked about how we can believe in God, but if we don’t feel it, it’s hard to act on it. Daas helps us make these ideas real so we can feel close to God and serve Him with love and awe. We also said we can build this connection through simple things like thinking deeply (meditation) and praying, and by using helpfu...

A weekly class. Learn the practical and mystical fundamentals of living a life of purpose and meaning. Join every class, or join a single class, as each will be filled with ways to live your life purposefully.

In this class we discussed that while both reverence and love are essential "wings" for spiritual practice, even minimal awareness of G-d's presence can qualify as reverence, such as acting appropriately when knowing G-d is watching. The discussion explored how souls develop differently and may naturally gravitate more toward love or reverence, and emphasized that true service of G-d...

In this class, we discussed the uniqueness of Chabad Chassidic Philosophy. What happens when one tries, but emotional feelings don't show up. Finally, we discussed the necessity for both reverence and love of G-d.

The meeting focused on the spiritual significance of mitzvahs, particularly tefillin and tallit, as explained by Pinchas. He discussed the meditation process required before performing mitzvahs, emphasizing the need to accept God's sovereignty and to subjugate one's soul to His will. Pinchas explained the mystical meanings behind the four sections of tefillin, which correspond to different...

In this class we learned about the idea of Daas, which means having a deep connection between what you understand in your mind and what you feel in your heart. We explained that it’s not just about knowing something, but about making it feel real and personal, almost like a physical experience. We described how this happens in stages. First, a person thinks deeply about an idea, then they come to...

Beyond Emotion – Building a Real Relationship with G-dIs your spiritual life based on how you feel, or on a deeper commitment? In this lesson, we dive into Tanya Chapter 41 to explore why genuine reverence (Yira) is the foundation of Jewish life and the key to overcoming daily challenges. Highlights of this session:Awe vs. Fear: Moving beyond fear of punishment toward a genuine reverence for the D...

The Wings of a Mitzvah: Elevating Action In this episode, Rabbi Pinchas Adler explores the "wings" of our spiritual life: Kavana (Intention). Using the Alter Rebbe’s teachings from Chapter 40, we learn how Love and Awe allow our physical deeds to transcend the material world and connect with Divine Light. Key Highlights: Wings of a Mitzvah: Why a Mitzvah needs Love and Awe to "take...

Tanya Chapter 40 In this class, we discussed how a mitzvah performed without intention can remain “stuck” in this world. This led to a deeper conversation about the external and internal dimensions of reality, as well as the two ways G-d conceals His light: 1. By contraction (quantity) and 2. By veils/curtains (quality). A mitzvah without intention remains bound within the illusion of this world,...

In this class we discuss what happens when we do a Mitzvah with no motivation or for a ulterior motive. Is there a point? Is there any remedy if it was done?

In today's class we discussed an often overlooked topic, "G-dliness". What does it even mean, and how does it help us? We also discussed the spiritual world of Atzilut.

In today's class we discussed what is the reward for the mitzvahs we do, and the Kavanah (intention) we have, and how it is intricately tied to the actions we make today.

In this class, we delve into another reason why Kavanah-intention is important during prayer or Mitzvos. That is it affects how far the mitzvah can reach. Along the way we learned why our imperfection is actually a good thing, and makes us better than angels.

End of chapter 38 In this class we discovered the surprising meaning of "Kavanah" Intention during a mitzvah. It's not just to know the right thoughts, it's to feel the right feelings. Mitzvot should ideally be done with deep feelings towards G-d, then the mitzvah is truly filled with soul and life.

In this Tanya class, we discussed why spirituality alone is not enough. True spiritual growth happens when our inner intentions are connected with our actions. When spirituality and deeds come together, each is uplifted to a higher level than they could ever reach on their own.

In this class we discussed intention vs action.

What is Simchat Torah really about? Why do we dance with a closed Torah instead of studying it? How is Shemini Atzeret connected to Yom Kippur, Sukkot, and the entire High Holiday season? In this masterclass, we explore: The Torah sources for Shemini Atzeret. Midrash and Zohar on the meaning of the “eighth day.” Why Simchat Torah is the culmination of Elul, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot. T...

Why does Sukkos come right after Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur? What does the sukkah teach us about essential unity, and how do the Four Kinds reveal unity in diversity? In this class we explore the hidden essence of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, how it becomes revealed on Sukkos, the meaning of the Midrash about the lulav, and why the greatest celebration of the year was about pouring water. Learn...

In this Tanya class we explored the unique roles of Torah, mitzvos, and prayer. Through mitzvos, we fulfill G-d’s will and accomplish His purpose in creation. Through Torah study, we bring G-d close to us in the most intimate way. And through prayer, we reach upward and draw ourselves closer to Him. A weekly class. Learn the practical and mystical fundamentals of living a life of purpose and meani...

What is the true purpose of Yom Kippur? Why do we fast, pray, and gather together on this holiest day of the year? And what makes the final prayer, Ne’ilah, so unique and powerful? In this masterclass, Rabbi Pinchas Adler takes us on a journey through: Torah and Talmudic sources on the purpose of Yom Kippur The symbolism of “seven, eight, and essence” The role of the Kohen Gadol in the Holy of Hol...