Emuna Beams

Torah and the Active Brain

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 03:36:00 +0200

People like me began learning Torah after completing advanced degrees. We are keenly familiar with both sides of the fence, secular and academic education versus Torah education. Let's see objectively which develops more powerful brainpower.

We Were There

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:18:00 +0200

The Seder night is when we tell the story of our Exodus from Egypt. This is one of the Torah's 613 commandments that one can fulfill only once a year on the first night of Passover. The Zohar and the Gemara laud the amazing attributes of this mitzvah. It strengthens emuna and solidifies the family. In addition, it enhances one's inner joy, especially when we tell of the Exodus as if we were there...

Emuna and the Four Sons

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:52:00 +0200

The account of the four sons in the Passover Haggadah is like a kaleidoscope where we see many different images. We see how four general types of people relate to emuna. What's more, we learn about four facets that are in each of us. As such, the Passover Seder and the story of the Exodus are as relevant today as they were thousands of years ago.

The Passover Story: Why Tell It?

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:48:09 +0200

Passover is our freedom holiday. On Passover night at the Seder, we tell the story of how the Almighty liberated us from slavery in Egypt. Are we free today? Half the world's Jews live under foreign regimes. The other half live in Israel, which is far from independent today, living under dictates and limitations from the White House. What's more, Israel's anti-emuna government and military discriminate against Torah-observant Jews in more ways than one. Is that freedom? If we're not free, then why tell the story of Passover? Let's find out, with this lovely parable that you can tell at your Passover Seder table.

The Story of Passover: Part 3, Exodus from Egypt

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 21:57:48 +0200

On the eve of the Exodus, it wasn't enough for someone to say, "I have emuna in my heart. I don't need all these rituals." A person like that would have died in Egypt on Passover night. Hashem wanted the Israelites to be proactive in fulfilling His commandments...

Bitter Herbs

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 22:25:27 +0200

Rebbe Nachman teaches us a lesson about Passover, which is a lesson for life. The bitter herbs are an integral part of the Seder, and of life as well…

The Story of Passover: Part 2, The Ten Plagues

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 22:11:18 +0200

When Moses delivered Hashem's message of "Let My people go" to Pharaoh, the Egyptian king retorted, "Who is Hashem that I should listen to Him? Besides, I've never heard of Hashem before" (Exodus 5:2). With such unprecedented arrogance, Pharaoh was inviting punishment.

Do We Hear the Pain?

Sun, 15 Mar 2026 14:36:24 +0200

There was a rich Jew in Hungary who went bankrupt. When he had money, everyone would kowtow to him. But, now that he lost his money, no one would even say "good morning" to him. The unfortunate person went to the Chasam Sofer and complained that no one paid the slightest attention to him.

Matza, Joy and 10 Melodies: Likutei Moharan II, Torah 24

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 22:11:23 +0200

Rebbe Nachman reveals the secret of the Tikkun HaKlali, the general remedy. The human body has ten types of pulse, which correspond to the ten types of song. The ten types of song are the key to inner happiness. So is the matzah we eat on Passover…

The Story of Passover: Part 1, Slavery in Egypt

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 23:40:14 +0200

Passover is a story of emuna. Many things we are about to say sound like outright exaggerations to the logical 21st-century ear. Yet, emuna is beyond logic. Our entire history defies logic.

Sweet Cleaning

Sun, 08 Mar 2026 05:05:00 +0200

Now that Purim has passed, Passover is quickly approaching. We all face what many consider one of the most daunting tasks of the year: cleaning for Passover. It doesn't have to be that way. Today's podcast shows how to make it pleasant and enjoyable. We can clean for Passover with a song in our hearts.

The Toothpick Test

Sun, 01 Mar 2026 03:53:00 +0200

Today's podcast is not only an important Purim-week lesson, but it's the key to winning the war and a practical message about Jewish unity. "The Toothpick Test" is something that anyone can do, especially at the family Purim table. We cordially invite Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu and opposition leaders Avigdor Lieberman and Yair Lapid to join us in this test.

The Turkey Prince

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:57:14 +0200

Rebbe Nachman's classic parable seems absurd, but it's actually a cogent reflection of the emoji and smartphone generation. The second half of this lesson elaborates on Likutei Moharan I:119, which helps us understand the concepts of foolishness and spiritual unawareness we see in the Turkey Prince.

The Story of Purim: Hashem's Hidden Hand

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:00:54 +0200

The Book of Esther is a living blueprint: the Purim story—unfolding over 13 years—reveals patterns that mirror today’s geopolitics and upheavals, showing how Hashem’s hidden hand directs history.

Using parallels between Ahashverosh and modern leaders, and the choices of Mordecai and Esther, the episode emphasizes teshuva, faith, and how apparent threats can become redemptive when people repent and trust God.

The lesson also reviews Purim customs (fasting, reading the Megillah, feasting, gifts and charity) and the holiday’s core message that no decree is irreversible and divine providence remains constant.

The Pasture Pastoral: Rebbe Nachman’s Secrets of Perek Shira

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 22:27:52 +0200

Rabbi Nachman teaches the “Pasture Pastoral,” a concise exploration of Likutey Moharan (Torah 63, with links to Torah 11) revealing the secret of Perek Shira: every level of creation and every pasture has its own niggun (melody) that sings to Hashem. Using shepherd imagery, flute music, and the Land of Israel, he shows how these melodies uplift the soul and unite human prayer with the natural world.

Clear and practical, the lesson explains why music and place matter in prayer, how food and fields carry sparks of holiness, and how each person is a shepherd responsible for tending and correcting their part of creation.

The Afterburner

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 21:53:10 +0200

Gravity and natural ability are very similar. Both are strong limiting forces. But pull us down. Yet, we can overcome by applying a sustained upward force that is greater than their downward pull…

Do What You Can

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 01:21:00 +0200

Many people with acute difficulties in life are worrying that they can't prepare for the upcoming holidays the way they might want to. Yet, we must serve Hashem with all of life's difficulties. Know full well that it's Hashem Who is challenging us with the difficulties...

It‘s OK to Cry

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 00:01:00 +0200

If you can't honestly express your pain and shed real tears to your Father in Heaven, Who really loves you and cares about you, then who else on earth is there to cry to?

Simplicity and Beauty: Likutei Moharan II, Torah 19

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 22:13:57 +0200

The closest distance between two points is a straight line. In spirituality, straightness means simplicity and honest innocence. The two traits, which are really one, makes a person beautiful. They also create the closest distance between the person and the Creator. They're also he key to happiness...

Recalculating Our Route

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 21:41:25 +0200

So what if we made a mistake? Rebbe Nachman promises us that all we have to do is to declare a new beginning, and start all over with enhanced faith and enthusiasm. Even a turkey can make a new beginning…

Beyond Logic, Beyond Pain: Likutei Moharan I:250

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 22:28:06 +0200

Astrology is certainly real. A person has reason to fear an unfavorable horoscope. The good news is that those who cling to emuna uplift themselves above the influence of the stars. There, pain and affliction no longer exist...

Breaking Through Bricks

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:13:37 +0200

Did you ever wonder how a little 105-pound Korean Karate specialist can break a whole stack of bricks? We can utilize his same technique to obliterate any obstacles that stand in the way of our goal, but we won't need a fist...

Akiva's Emuna

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:35:42 +0200

Rebbe Akiva was born with every disadvantage. He was the son of a poor convert. Until age 40, he was an illiterate migrant worker. Yet, he became the the greatest of sages and surpassed the monumental greats of his generation. How did such an underdog become the father of the Oral Torah?

The Poor Man and the Astrologer

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 22:58:51 +0200

How can an upright person become a common thief? The slightest compromise with the evil inclination is a tiny breach that will soon grow wider…

Go for the Goal

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 21:52:30 +0200

Don't let anyone in the world discourage you from pursuing your goal. Putting your own dreams and aspirations aside while bending to the will of others is a formula for frustration and bitterness. People-pleasers are never happy, nor do they rise above mediocrity…

Gideon's Holy Commandos

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 14:07:00 +0200

Draft the Haredim? Don't draft the Haredim? The debate is meaningless until Israel decides what type of army they want. An army like Gideon's adheres to one set of rules only, and they're neither conventional nor politically correct. And, only the best are fit for service...

Heaven-Sent Bread

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 13:31:00 +0200

It doesn't matter whether there are wars, lockdowns and layoffs. Today's podcast is the key to an easy and adequate income.

Get your free PDF download of Parshat Haman here.

Your Word is a Witness

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 13:48:53 +0200

A beautiful story in the Gemara tells of a young man who valiantly saved a lass from drowning in a well. This story teaches that breaking a promise is a severe transgression of Torah that triggers extreme difficulties in life. These difficulties frequently manifest themselves in a measure-for-measure manner. That way, a person with spiritual awareness can recognize what he or she did wrong and atone accordingly.

The Clay Digger

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 22:54:29 +0200

The digger had every reason to be deeply disappointed. Nevertheless, he maintained the smile on his face at all costs. Hashem then gave him a real reason to smile. Rebbe Nachman's lesson about happiness…

Breaking out of the Bottle

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 22:04:53 +0200

In our formative years, different people stuck all types of labels on us. Even worse, they stuck the labels on a bottle and put us inside. As children, we subconsciously thought that our parents, teachers, and peers knew what they were talking about. They most likely did not.

The acute problem is that most people spend their lives stuck inside that same bottle. It's time to break out...

Kaptzin Pasha: the Sly Vizier

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 22:36:54 +0200

Rebbe Nachman reveals the template of Jewish history in this allegorical tale of treachery and innocence. In every generation our enemies rise up against us, but the Holy One rescues us from their hands...

Your Backpack

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:05:02 +0200

The Creator has already packed our backpacks for us. He has given us the tools we each need for our journey in life and to reach our individual destinations. Our job is to become acquainted with those tools, refine and cultivate them, and utilize them properly.

Sweet Home Jerusalem

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 14:14:24 +0200

Menachem Herman and I got together for an evening of song and inspiration in Netanya last night. As a soul correction of our past, we've taken quite a few melodies and uplifted them with an emuna slant and lyrics. This is one of our favorites, which we originally did in 2008, when the UN and Obama were threatening to split Jerusalem: Sweet Home Jerusalem Based on the original song "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd, 1974 Guitar, adaptation by Menachem Herman Lyrics by Rabbi Lazer Brody Eagles' wings keep on flying Carry me home to see The King Singing songs about my City Jerusalem you're in my dreams And I'm gonna sing, yes Well I heard the UN talk about her But a Jewish boy won't drink this brew Uncle Sam please remember, that "Jerusalem, won't be split in two!" Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem Where the skies are so blue Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem L-rd I'm coming home to you We're all waiting for Moshiach You can bet he's coming soon We'll all be dancing in Jerusalem And we'll all be singing the same tune Now that's the truth Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem Where the skies are so blue Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem L-rd I'm coming home to you The wise men of the Holy City They've been known to pick a song or two They help my soul when I'm hurting They give me joy when I'm feeling blue Now how about you? Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem Where the skies are so blue Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem L-rd I'm coming home to you Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem Where the skies are so blue Sweet Home, Sweet Jerusalem L-rd I'm coming home to you

The Depth of Gratitude: Parshat Va’era

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:28:00 +0200

Gratitude is one of the most vital - if not the most vital - character trait a person could have. It's the key to happiness and to faith. So much so, that the Almighty personally taught Moses how very profound gratitude is. We see this lesson in this week's Torah portion, Va'era.

The Happy Fish

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 15:14:12 +0200

To keep the fish in our aquarium happy and healthy, we must follow specific guidelines, otherwise the fish will suffer. Are we any less important that the fish?

The Horse and the Pump

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 22:24:08 +0200

Rebbe Nachman’s classic short fable tells about a simple yet greedy villager who didn't believe in the forces of the dark side. These demons, the evil-spirit agents of the Evil Inclination, decided to have some fun with him...

Choosing the Right Goal

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 22:27:56 +0200

Don't be afraid to ask yourself some serious questions in life that most people avoid. This is a necessary step in finding ourselves, choosing the right goal and living a life of fulfillment and gratification.

Etz Chaim: The Tree of Life

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 23:09:05 +0200

I love trees and the imagery that our Torah is a tree of life. Before I became a rabbi, I was a tree-fruit farmer. I've planted hundreds ( maybe thousands) of trees all across Israel, from the Golan to the Negev. With that in mind, Hashem gave me this melody, which I hope you'll catch on to quickly. Menachem Herman made this lively arrangement, and is playing guitars and singing. Well-known Jewish music producer Jeff Horvitch is on the keyboards. Yours truly is playing the native-Israel flutes. Enjoy this (lyrics below, in translation, transliteration and original Hebrew):

Translation:

She is a tree of life to those who hold on to her, and happy are those who uphold her (Proverbs 3:18). Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace (Proverbs 3:17). Bring us back to You, Hashem, and we shall return; renew our days as of old (Lamentations 5:21).

Transliteration (to sing along):

Etz chaim he, lamachazikim ba, vetomcheha me'ushar; deracheha darkei no'am, vechol netivoteha shalom. Hashivenu A'donai elecha venashuva; chadesh yameinu k'kedem.

The True Leader: Parshat Shmot

Sun, 04 Jan 2026 11:52:57 +0200

In this week's Torah portion, we learn the qualities that exemplify a true leader. Moses possessed all of these attributes. We'll see them again soon when Moshiach arrives...

The Repairman: A Tale about Trust

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 22:33:58 +0200

The king was jealous that a poor repairman was happier than he was. He therefore tried all sorts of schemes to make the repairman's life miserable, with no success… Rebbe Nachman's classic tale shows that nothing invokes such a plentiful income like bitachon (trust in Hashem) does.

Getting in Gear: A Lesson in Self-Motivation

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 21:50:32 +0200

A lost person doesn't know where he or she is in life. To find ourselves, we must determine where we are, then establish our goal and go for it.

All for the Best: A Lesson in Emuna

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 11:55:53 +0200

Joseph and his brothers return to Egypt after burying their holy father Jacob in the Land of Israel. The brothers are terrified. They thought that Joseph was kind to them as long as their father was alive. But now, they fear that he will seek revenge for their selling him into slavery in Egypt. Joseph comforts them and teaches them a lesson in emuna that we all must learn. Source: Genesis, Chapter 50, Parashat Vayichi.

The Best Jug for the Fine Wine

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 16:50:47 +0200

Insults are wonderful, if we realize that they are a gift from Above. A person who meant no harm asked me why I'm so ugly. It inspired this podcast. If you know anyone who is self-conscious about the way they look, let them see this 3-minute message.

The Rabbi's Son

Thu, 25 Dec 2025 22:13:30 +0200

Sometimes the evil inclination masquerades as a person's best friend to prevent him from performing a mitzvah. This is the only one of Rebbe Nachman's tales that is not allegorical, but actually a true story. After relating the tale, we also learn Likutei Moharan I:115. which elaborates on the meaning of obstacles that stand in our way of getting closer to Hashem.

Believe in Yourself

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 21:57:42 +0200

By pondering the rationale of creation, we begin to think positively. Positive thinking is wonderful in that it is conducive to believing in ourselves. Believing in ourselves is not some flowery notion, but a vital human resource that is essential for success. Today's lesson shows how to attain this priceless asset.

Yisgadal V'Yiskadash: Hashem's Holy Name and the Land of Israel

Sun, 21 Dec 2025 14:03:00 +0200

In Tana D'Bei Eliahu, Eliahu Hanavi teaches us that when the People of Israel settle in the Land of Israel, Hashem's Name is sanctified around the world. We therefore exalt Hashem's Name by settling in the Land of Israel and building it, as we learn today...

The Mountain of Fire: Master of Prayer, Part 9 and Conclusion

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 22:31:56 +0200

The Land of Wealth sends a delegation of noblemen to find the sword that will defeat the Warrior. Little do they realize that the disguised Warrior himself is leading them to their most surprising rectification…

Who Am I?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 22:23:00 +0200

Who are we? What are we? Who am I? You'd be amazed at how many billions of people go through their entire lives without ever asking themselves these critical questions. They shrug their shoulders and ask, "What difference does it make?" It makes a very big difference. Knowing who we are separates between failure and success and between anxiety and inner peace.

The Worry Worm

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 12:06:46 +0200

The Worry Worm is a delightful story about faith for children, ages 3-9. It tells about two worm sisters who were born inside an apple. One is happy but the other is worried all the time. Let's find out why...

Story and Narration: Rabbi Lazer Brody

Production: V'Nishma, Miami

George Washington and the Light of Chanukah

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 13:39:45 +0200

Few people realize that America owes its independence to one of George Washington's soldiers who lit Chanukah candles at Valley Forge in Chanukah of 1777 (5538). Here's the amazing story:

Searching for the King: Master of Prayer, Part 8

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 22:15:12 +0200

Now that they have found each other, the Master of Prayer, the Warrior and the Treasurer begin their fateful journey in their search of the King. Will they find him? Will they find their other comrades from the King's Court?

Reaching for the Stars

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 21:49:22 +0200

Our new series of lessons teaches us how to unlock our vast potential. We begin by reaching for the stars. For that, we must look up, not down…

The Treasurer: Master of Prayer, Part 7

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 22:25:28 +0200

Emissaries from the Country of Wealth encounter a nobleman who is vastly wealthier than anyone they ever met and crown him their king…

The Blessing of Contentment

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 22:09:25 +0200

One's needs and one's lusts are two totally different entities. Our sages therefore define the rich person and the happy person as the ones who are content with their lot in life. Few financially wealthy people are happy. Why? Many of them lack the blessing of contentment…

Hashem in the Tunnel

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 11:13:42 +0200

Why does each one of us have a difficult challenge in life? If Hashem is a loving Father, why doesn't He make life easier for us? Today's podcast talks about the imminent Geula and coming of Moshiach. Will we be able to endure the birth pangs of redemption?

The Reunion: Master of Prayer, Part 6

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 22:59:12 +0200

The entire Country of Wealth trembles as the Warrior and his army approach. Their last hope is to send the Master of Prayer on a risky mission to the Warrior's camp. Could this be his old comrade from the pre-storm era in the King's court?

Click here to download your free study guide for the Master of Prayer

The Best Boss: Bitachon, Lesson 6

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 22:50:44 +0200

Hashem is the best boss imaginable. Nothing is better than working for Him. He provides benefits and incentive plans that no other employer could dream of matching. What's more, He always pays on time...

Aliya and Emuna

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 13:55:11 +0200

Moshiach won't come until we all learn emuna. The Land of Israel is the Land of Emuna and Hashem wants us all here. That way, He can expedite the process of Redemption. If we don't take the initiative, Hashem prods us. Putin's declaration of war against the Ukraine is Hashem's way of prodding the Ukrainian Jews to come home. Zohran Mamdani was elected mayor of NYC for the same reason. Mamdani is an eagle in disguise, to uplift New York's Jews and to bring them home too.

Desert Wolf

Sun, 23 Nov 2025 01:26:00 +0200

I was alone in the Negev Desert, a prime place for personal prayer. I was facing a hill. Upon it was a majestic creature, an Israeli desert wolf (Canis Lupus Arabus). The didn't budge; it just gazed at me calmly. Suddenly, it gave a proud howl that echoed across the desert. It seemed to say, "I'm the chief of this region." I tool my Land-of-Israel reed flute out of my backpack and started playing the melody that the wolf seemed to inspire. The melody came out with a native-American flavor. Enjoy it, and may we soon see the days when the wolf dwells with the lamb (Isaiah 11:6), amen!

The Spiritual Couch Potato

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 20:13:00 +0200

Modern society is so preoccupied with body that most people don't even know that they have a soul. When people think that life is only body and the physical, they become candidates for depression. Why? For them, each day is a day closer to the cemetery. Is that all one has to look forward to in life? Thank goodness, no!

Champion athletes are highly aware of their bodies. A marathon runner feels what's going on in each muscle of his legs and feet. Yet, an overweight person who never engages in physical activity and barely gets out of the sofa is utterly out of touch with his body. By the same token, one who never engages in spiritual activity loses touch with his soul. Spiritual awareness - awareness of the soul and its Creator - is a prerequisite for happiness and inner peace.

Here's the good news: the soul is a tiny spark of the Creator. Just as the Creator is eternal, so is the soul. A person who prioritizes soul over body lives forever.

The Storm: Master of Prayer, Part 5

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 22:11:11 +0200

The Storm Wind confused the entire world, turning the sea into dry land and the dry land to sea, wilderness to settled area and settled area to wilderness. But even worse, it kidnapped the Princess's beautiful child. The chaos in the world created such confusion that different sects of people created their own countries with their own skewed ideology, leaders and false gods...

True Trust

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 23:08:19 +0200

Would you like to be more charismatic and more successful, whether in business or in any other interpersonal endeavor? Learn to trust in Hashem. A person who trusts in Hashem won't resort to high-pressure methods in his or her dealings and therefore will be more affable…

Through the Eyes of a Deer

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 01:23:00 +0200

In today's empowering podcast, we learn to love ourselves and to appreciate the special qualities that Hashem gives each of us. No more jealousy and no more being down on yourself...

The Hand: Master of Prayer, Part 4

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:53:11 +0200

The Master of Prayer reveals the source of his uncanny powers: he derived them from the King's Hand. All the creases and crevices on the hand formed a detailed map, both geographical and historical. It depicted everything that occurred from the beginning of creation until the end of time…

Bread from Heaven

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 22:15:40 +0200

How much must a person engage in making a living? In light of the principles of emuna, what is considered reasonable hishtadlus, or effort? Let's get some vital answers to questions we all ask...

The Bold Warrior: Master of Prayer, Part 3

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 22:28:21 +0200

A bold warrior with an army of the bravest warriors like himself has succeeded in conquering many countries without firing a shot. He is now approaching the Country of Wealth, whose people are terrified. Why? The bold warrior detests money, which is their entire faith and creed.

Call My Name

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 22:05:22 +0200

Our arch-adversary, the evil inclination, does everything in its power to reduce us to sadness, depression and ultimate surrender with all types of pseudo-logical claims that there's no hope and no one to depend on, Heaven forbid. Of course, that's far from the truth...

The Miser and the Macaw

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 02:21:00 +0200

Here's a poignant parable about relationships, when unthinking husbands starve their wives emotionally and wake up when it's too late...

The Country of Wealth: Master of Prayer, Part 2

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 22:13:25 +0200

Imagine a country that glorifies wealth. They worship many different human gods with names like Warren Buffet, Jeff Bezos, Marc Zuckerberg, Bill Gates and Elon Musk. They have other idols too. They even invent their own constellations and stars. They have movie stars, sports stars and all-stars. Rebbe Nachman foresaw all of this over 200 years ago and tells about it in today's lesson.

Cast My Soul

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 21:58:24 +0200

There are two distinct and seemingly contradictory approaches to what constitutes bitachon, complete trust in G-d. Approach A says that that bitachon is the confidence that Hashem will do for a person whatever he or she needs. Approach B say that bitachon has nothing to do with what an individual needs or desires. Indeed, it is the calm acceptance of whatever Hashem does, no matter how uncomfortable it might be. Which approach is right?

The Master of Prayer, Part 1

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 21:22:33 +0200

Many consider "The Master of Prayer" Rebbe Nachman's finest tale. Although it is loaded with esoteric and Kabbalistic imagery, it's an uncanny look at our world of today. Rebbe Nachman is describing the events that lead up to the redemption and global rectification.

Lean on Me

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 22:11:01 +0200

When a person knows that Hashem is omniscient and all-powerful, he or she readily leans on Hashem. Total reliance on Hashem in leads to true tranquility of the soul. That's happiness and that's bitachon, the power of trusting in Hashem, the subject of our new series.

Healthy and Holy

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:31:00 +0200

There are two aspects to eating - qualitative and quantitative. Eating best-quality natural food is vital to our health, but so is the way we eat and the amounts we eat. Here's a plan that's super-healthy for the body and just as healthy for the soul...

Express Checkout

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 05:17:00 +0200

The mere idea of Yom Kippur is enough to raise the anxiety level of many people; that's because no one ever explained to them how Yom Kippur is the happiest day in the Jewish calendar. For real? Hear this.

The Birthright

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 03:22:00 +0200

There's a common denominator between your most valuable asset and your birthright, which is even more than a basic human right. No person on earth has the right to take either of them away from you. What possibly fits that definition?

The Rabbi and His Only Son

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 21:33:42 +0200

Rebbe Nachman is showing us in his classic tale the importance of connecting to a righteous spiritual guide. We see that the road to accomplishing any true goal is strewn with obstacles.

Revival and Consolation: the 13th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 21:55:58 +0200

The 13th Principle of Emuna is our belief that death as we know it today is a passing stage. It is definitely not terminal, for we believe in the resurrection of the dead. This principle is so very important that we allude to it six times in the initial three-benediction section of the Amidah prayer, which we recite every single day, weekdays, Sabbath and festivals…

Moshiach, Shofar and Rosh Hashanah

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 09:22:00 +0200

Why do we blow the shofar on Rosh Hashanah? What's the connection between the shofar and Moshiach? Our sages provide some eye-opening answers that tell us exactly what's happening today...

Overcoming Your Acute Problem

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 11:42:00 +0200

Here's how a small segment of the cogent "Nishmas" prayer helps us defeat worry and depression while overcoming that nagging acute problem that each of us has.

The 20/20 Plan for Body-Soul Health

Sun, 14 Sep 2025 12:13:37 +0200

Here's a simple plan that anyone can do to dramatically improve health and well-being. It addresses the needs of both body and soul.

The Jewel Prince

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 21:45:51 +0200

The king and queen were childless and they yearned for a son. They summoned a secret tzaddik to pray for them. The tzaddik promised that they would have a son, made exclusively of rare jewels. We are all looking forward to seeing this prince...

Moshiach: The 12th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 22:01:47 +0200

Even though Moshiach (the Messiah) has not yet come, we eagerly anticipate his arrival. The advent of the Messianic era includes the Geula, the full redemption of our people, the ingathering of the exiles to our holy homeland of Israel and the rebuilding of our Holy Temple in Jerusalem. We believe that this can happen at any moment…

Climb and Connect

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 00:30:00 +0200

Did you ever wonder why people are willing to exert themselves so much to climb mountains? Your soul wants to do the same thing, but you don't need a Mount Everest to gain a magnificent view of the world and of yourself. In Elul, Hashem is especially close to you...

The Battle for the Heart: The Exchanged Children, Final Part 3

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 22:33:44 +0200

This tale is the key to understanding our own lives. Rebbe Nachman shows us our Divine souls, "the King's son", which is none other than a metaphor for that very part of us that is a spark of the Almighty. Why are we not aware of this? "The son of the maidservant," the body, gets in the way. Who is that midwife who exchanged the children at birth? Look in the mirror…

It's Your Choice: The 11th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 22:11:57 +0200

Hashem grants mankind the free will to do good or evil, for there can be no concept of reward and punishment outside the context of free choice. Therefore, there cannot be the slightest coercion in either direction. Simply speaking, it's your choice.

The 1st Hebrew Hostage

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 13:52:27 +0200

The Torah tells us that Sarah lived to the age of 127 (Genesis 23:1). Rashi, our foremost biblical commentator explains that they were all equally good years. How could that be true? Few women in history had a more difficult and apparently miserable life that our Matriarch Sarah. Her life was a never-ending saga of trials and tribulations...

Mud and Potatoes

Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:07:00 +0200

Today's podcast is not only inspiring, but it gets quite a bit done in 6 minutes, as follows:

1. Takes the confusion out of our task in Elul;

2. Provides simple but effective preparation for Rosh Hashanah;

3. Guarantees good health and adequate income.

Who can refuse such a deal? Not only does it not cost you a cent, but you may download this mp3 and share it with as many people as you like, courtesy of Emuna Beams and our wonderful supporters who, with Hashem's loving help, make this happen.

The Wise King and the Foolish Country: The Exchanged Children, Part 2

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 22:42:24 +0200

Let's not be fooled when we see ourselves surrounded by injustice and falsehood. This is none other than a correction of the world and our souls in particular. Ultimately, truth always prevails so don't despair. This tale is the key to understanding our own lives. Today's lesson reviews part 1 and presents the completion of the story.

Our Every Thought: the 10th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 22:23:06 +0200

This is the belief in Hashem's omniscience. Since His Divine Direction determines everything, no thought, utterance or occurrence in the universe is unknown to Him. Learn all about the Divine GPS...

Spiritual Math: Absolute Value and Channeling Your Power

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:12:00 +0200

A good coach, whether in sports or in spirituality, can tame a tiger easier than he can motivate a pussycat. Taped in a classroom at a remedial school, I told these wonderful teenage "tigers" that the Creator gave them the power to attain greatness. If they haven't yet done that, it's not because they lack talent and ability; it's simply because they haven't yet channeled your power in the right direction. Today's podcast is a must-hear, not only for young people wih disciplinary issues but for all of us to realize our full potential.

The Eternal Torah: the 9th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 22:10:35 +0200

Hashem fashioned the entire universe and everything in it from the greatest macro to the tiniest micro in accordance to His Torah. Therefore, if the Torah would be rescinded or replaced, the world would cease to exist. Not only the blueprint of creation, the Torah is the sustenance of creation as well.

The Exchanged Children

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 21:53:26 +0200

The midwife switched the babies at birth. The king's son grew up as the son of the servant, and the servant's son grew up as the son of a king. The result is a story of suspense, confusion and the key to understanding our own lives.

The Prophecy of Moses: the 7th & 8th Principles of Emuna

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 22:03:49 +0200

The 7th and 8th Principles of Emuna are closely related. Whereas the 7th is our belief in the prophecy of Moses, our 8th is the belief that the Torah we have today is the same one that the Almighty gave to Moses atop Mount Sinai.

The Last Laugh

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 04:08:00 +0200

"If we knew that a rare gift was concealed within our difficulties, we could laugh; but with emuna, we start laughing even before we discover the gift."

An old parable about a donkey in trouble gives us a different perspective on life's difficulties. Here's two-and-a-half minutes of encouragement:

5 Minutes to a Strong Comeback

Sun, 10 Aug 2025 03:41:00 +0200

Strong comebacks lead to great achievements and much better second efforts, so don't ever despair when you have a setback. In the next 5 minutes, we learn how to mobilize the strength within us to make a great comeback. It's the real deal. Rejected? Don't be dejected, just listen to this:

The Fly and the Spider

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 22:16:59 +0200

Some interpret this intriguing tale as Rebbe Nachman's autobiography. In any event, it portrays the battle of good against evil and the international war against the revelation of righteousness.

Message of the Prophets: the 6th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 21:32:09 +0200

Our 6th of the 13 Principles of Emuna is our belief in the message of the true prophets. Why is it so critically important to know that the words of the prophets are true?

Your Life‘s Song

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 04:18:00 +0200

Maybe you think that you're not musical but King David says otherwise. Here's how the events of your life come together to create a beautiful melody that's ever so gratifying to the Almighty. The song of your life is so exquisitely unique, and here's what makes it such a special niggun (melody)...

The Reconciliation: The Merchant and the Pauper, Part 5

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 23:09:46 +0200

After reviewing Parts 1, 2, 3 and 4, we conclude Rebbe Nachman's classic tale, which hints at the ingathering of the exiles and the imminent coming of Moshiach.

To Him Alone: The 5th Principle of Emuna

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 22:34:24 +0200

This principle is the foundation of monotheism, forbidding idolatry and false gods, thereby precluding worship or submission to anyone or anything else other than the Creator.