Mussar HaTorah

In this week's episode, we explore one of the most surprising compliments hidden in the Torah's harshest criticism. When Moshe calls the Jewish people "stiff-necked" and predicts their future failures, it sounds like the ultimate leadership disappointment speech. However, Rabbi Yecheskel Weinfeld offers a stunning reframe: that same stubborn streak that often gets us into trouble might be our secret weapon for spiritual success. As we navigate the final days before Yom Kippur, this insight from Parshas Vayeilech offers a revolutionary perspective on setbacks, persistence, and why falling down doesn't disqualify you from getting back up. Discover how the trait that has historically been our greatest challenge has also been the source of our greatest resilience, and learn practical ways to channel your inner "stiff neck" toward spiritual growth rather than spiritual rebellion. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

Why does the Gemara say we recite verses of kingship "so that" we make Hashem king over us? Isn't declaring Him king the same thing as making Him king? This seemingly circular logic in Rosh Hashana 16a puzzled scholars for generations—until Rav Yitzchok Hutner revealed a revolutionary insight that completely transforms how we understand what's happening during our Rosh Hashana prayers. It turns out that everything we think we know about the relationship between declaring Hashem's kingship and performing mitzvos gets turned upside down on this cosmic day. As the Lubavitcher Rebbe called it, Rosh Hashana night is "Coronation Night"—and we're not just davening, we're participating in the annual crowning ceremony of the King of Kings. This episode will forever change how you experience the shofar blasts, the special prayers, and even your teshuva. Discover why Rosh Hashana isn't about laying spiritual groundwork for something else—it's about achieving the ultimate goal itself. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

Why would Jewish law allow someone to make kiddush twice - once for themselves and again for someone else who's already capable of doing it themselves? This seemingly puzzling halacha opens the door to one of Judaism's most profound and practically transformative concepts. Join us as we explore Rabbi Yaakov Kier's powerful insights from his "Mussar Moment" series, discover what the Chofetz Chaim learned from financial guarantors that revolutionized his approach to Jewish community, and uncover how this ancient principle can transform us from passive observers of other people's spiritual lives into active partners in every fellow Jew's success. As we approach Rosh Hashana, this episode reveals why your neighbor's mitzvos might actually be more your business than you ever imagined - and how embracing that responsibility can deepen your own spiritual growth in ways you never expected. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

We all have that one area where we draw the line – maybe it's being on time, controlling our temper, or giving up a particular comfort. "I'm a good Jew," we tell ourselves, "I just struggle with this one thing." But what if that single exception isn't just a weakness to work on, but undermines our entire relationship with Torah? In this eye-opening episode, we delve into a startling verse from Parshas Ki Savo that reveals why the Ramban and Rabbenu Yonah viewed partial commitment as more perilous than outright rebellion. Through the powerful analogy of a servant who obeys everything except one command, you'll discover the psychological trap that keeps so many of us stuck in spiritual mediocrity – and the surprising path to genuine Torah transformation. Warning: this episode might completely change how you think about your Jewish observance. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

What if the very people who hurt you the most are still controlling your life—not through their actions, but through your hatred of them? In this week's episode, we uncover one of the Torah's most shocking commands hidden in Parshas Ki Teze: "Don't despise an Egyptian" and "Don't despise an Edomite"—the very nations that enslaved and persecuted the Jewish people. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt"l reveals why this seemingly impossible mitzvah might be the key to unlocking true freedom in your own life. Whether you're nursing old grudges, replaying past hurts, or feeling trapped by resentment toward someone who wronged you, this episode offers a life-changing perspective on how letting go of justified anger can become your path to liberation. Discover why holding onto hate keeps us enslaved to the very people we despise—and learn the practical steps to break free. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

Ever wonder why a well-prepared lawyer could suddenly become tongue-tied in court just because the judge showed favoritism to their opponent? This week's Parshas Shoftim reveals a profound psychological truth that goes far beyond the courtroom. Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe's stunning insight into "hester panim" (hiding of the face) versus "he'aras panim" (lighting up of the face) exposes the hidden reason why so many of our relationships remain stuck in cold distance. The culprit? We're all waiting for the other person to make the first move. Discover how ancient courtroom etiquette holds the key to transforming every relationship in your life—from that standoffish colleague to the distant family member you've been meaning to reconnect with. Sometimes the most revolutionary act is simply choosing to smile first. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

We all know what's right and wrong, so why do we still make poor choices? In this week's episode on Parshas Reeh, we explore a profound insight from Rav Henoch Liebowitz zt"l about how the Yetzer Hara doesn't try to convince us that wrong is right—instead, it specializes in sophisticated rationalizations that make us believe the rules don't apply to us "this time." Through the lens of the blessings and curses given at Mount Gerizim, we discover that our neshama already knows the right path, but we need to cut through the fog of our own excuses to see it clearly. Learn one simple but transformative practice that can help you recognize when you're rationalizing and restore the clarity you need to make choices aligned with your deepest values. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

Ever wonder why getting back into your learning routine after vacation feels so much harder than you expected? This week's Parshas Ekev reveals a startling spiritual principle that changes everything: when you take one day off from Torah or meaningful prayer, it actually costs you TWO days of effort to get back to where you started. Through a powerful parable from the Yerushalmi about two friends walking in opposite directions, Rav Wolbe shows us why spiritual momentum works both ways - and why even our summer breaks have hidden consequences. If you've ever struggled to reconnect with your spiritual practice after time away, this episode will transform how you think about consistency in your relationship with Hashem. Don't let this summer be the season that sets you back double. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

What's the difference between a servant who stays loyal through tough times and one who abandons ship at the first sign of trouble? Rashi's profound insight into the Shema reveals a game-changing approach to Jewish observance that could transform your entire spiritual experience. In this episode, inspired by Rabbi Yaakov Kier's "Mussar Moments," we explore how shifting from fear-based to love-based service isn't just nice theology—it's practical psychology that determines whether our mitzvos energize or exhaust us. Plus, discover how the principles from the bestselling book "Atomic Habits" can help you build sustainable spiritual practices that feel more like privileges than burdens. As we enter Shabbos Nachamu, learn why passion beats pressure every time, and how small shifts in perspective can lead to lasting transformation in your relationship with Torah and mitzvos. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

When Moshe began his final speech to the Jewish people, he opened with what seems like a boring geography lesson - but Rashi reveals these place names were actually coded references to Israel's past mistakes. Why speak in riddles when direct rebuke might be more effective? The answer reveals a revolutionary Torah principle about human dignity that's so powerful it can override other religious obligations. Discover how Moshe's sensitivity to embarrassment teaches us the sacred art of giving feedback while preserving someone's divine spark - and why protecting dignity might actually be the most effective path to inspiring growth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

What if everything you thought you knew about being a tzaddik was backwards? In this week's episode on Parshas Mattos, we explore a revolutionary insight from Rav Yisroel Meir Druck that challenges our assumptions about righteousness. When the Torah describes the soldiers chosen for battle as "anashim" - meaning wise, understanding people - Rashi reveals they were tzaddikim. But here's the twist: before someone can become a true tzaddik, they must first master something far more basic yet infinitely more challenging - being a mentch. Join us as we discover why character development isn't just a nice addition to spiritual practice, but the essential foundation that makes all other religious growth possible. You might be surprised to learn that the path to holiness doesn't begin in the beit midrash, but in how we treat our spouse, conduct our business, and show up for our commitments. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

Have you ever been absolutely right about something your family or a student needed to change, pushed for it with the best intentions, and watched it completely backfire? This week's parsha contains one of the most profound leadership lessons in the Torah - hidden in Moses's final request for a successor. Through the brilliant insights of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks z”l, we'll discover why being right isn't enough, and learn the three essential keys to leading change in our families without leaving anyone behind. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is slow down and remember that hearts change slower than minds. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

What happens when the sacred becomes ordinary? In this special anniversary episode of Mussar HaTorah, we explore how Amalek's seemingly simple attack on the Jewish people at Refidim shattered something far more precious than military confidence—it broke the spell of reverence that had protected an entire nation. Through the profound insights of Rabbi Yehoshua Portowitz, the Mesilat Yesharim, and Rav Hutner, we'll discover how mockery acts like an oil-slicked shield that causes spiritual truths to slide right off us, and why the place of attack—Refidim, where the people had "loosened their grip" on Torah—was no coincidence. Join us as we uncover the timeless battle between casual observance and engaged spirituality, and learn why the Chashmona'im's victory over the Greeks holds the key to overcoming the Amalek within ourselves. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

In this special episode dedicated to my nephew's Bar Mitzvah, we explore Parshas Chukas and the Torah's most mysterious mitzvah—the Parah Adumah, or Red Heifer. Even King Solomon, the wisest of all men, declared this commandment beyond his understanding, yet it holds profound lessons for our spiritual growth. Through the teachings of Rav Henoch Leibowitz and Rav Shlomo Wolbe, we'll discover how embracing divine mysteries can deepen our faith, why increased knowledge brings greater responsibility, and how to bridge the gap between intellectual understanding and heartfelt connection. Join us as we learn that sometimes the most powerful spiritual growth comes not from understanding everything, but from humbly accepting what we cannot fully comprehend. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

What if the very traits you've been trying to change about yourself are actually divine gifts waiting to be properly channeled? In this week's episode on Parshas Korach, we explore a revolutionary approach to personal growth that flips conventional self-improvement on its head. Through the lens of Korach's failed rebellion and profound teachings from Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, discover why your most challenging tendencies might not be flaws to eliminate, but raw materials crafted by Hashem for a specific purpose. From the Gemara's surprising teaching about those born under Mars to King David's potentially dangerous complexion, learn the ancient art of understanding and redirecting your nature rather than fighting against it. This episode will transform how you view your personality and unlock the hidden potential within your most difficult traits. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

How could such distinguished leaders misread their mission so dramatically? The answer lies not in dramatic rebellion, but in a subtle enemy that lurks within us - atzlus (laziness). Discover how even the slightest lack of enthusiasm distorts our perception, making challenges appear insurmountable and blessings invisible. This episode isn't just about ancient history - it's about transforming how you approach your spiritual life today. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

Ever wondered why Satan stands on the right side in Zechariah's vision, when the right represents all that's good and just? Join us as we explore the Chofetz Chaim's profound insight into the Yetzer Hara's most dangerous strategy – disguising itself as religious righteousness. This episode will change how we examine our religious practice and help you discern between authentic service of Hashem and the subtle traps of misplaced piety. It’s essential listening for anyone seeking genuine spiritual growth in an age of spiritual confusion. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

In Parshas Naso, we encounter the fascinating laws of the Nazirite—a person who voluntarily embraces extreme self-denial for spiritual purposes. Surprisingly, the Torah requires them to bring a sin offering when their vow ends. Was their self-denial praiseworthy or problematic? Join us as we explore Maimonides' brilliant resolution to this contradiction, revealing two distinct paths to a virtuous life: the saint who pursues personal perfection through extreme devotion, the sage who navigates the middle path while honoring responsibilities to family and community. This ancient wisdom offers profound guidance for our modern struggle to balance spiritual growth with our obligations to others. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

What if the ancient banners of Israel weren't just military markers, but divine blueprints for your unique purpose? In this week's eye-opening episode of Mussar HaTorah, we uncover why God arranged the Jewish people like heavenly angels, each beneath their distinctive banner in the wilderness. Discover the profound teachings of Rabbi Yeruchum Levovitz and Rabbi Simcha Wasserman that explain why knowing your irreplaceable mission eliminates jealousy, why being counted by name transforms your significance, and how understanding the divine image within you unlocks a purpose that no one else in creation can fulfill. Listen now and find your place beneath the divine banner designed uniquely for you. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com

In this episode, we explore the profound spiritual challenge of shmittah—the Torah commandment to let fields lie fallow every seventh year. Discover why Chazal compare those who observe this mitzvah to angels, and how ordinary farmers demonstrate extraordinary faith by trusting in divine providence against all logical concerns for their livelihood. Through powerful stories and teachings from Rav Chaim Shmuelevitz and the Gemara, we uncover how the principle of "doing before understanding" creates a level of trust in Hashem that surpasses even the angels themselves. Join us to learn how this ancient agricultural practice reveals timeless wisdom about cultivating unshakeable bitachon in our modern lives. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit notarabbi.substack.com