Send us a text In this gripping class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath delves into the tragic and turbulent rebellion led by Korach, Dathan, Abiram, and On ben Peles against Moses and Aaron. The narrative unveils not just a mutiny, but a masterclass in leadership, humility, and boundless love for even the most stubborn opponents. Through an exploration of four key episodes involving Dathan and Abiram, Rabbi Bernath uncovers their long history of discord and defiance. Yet the class’s emotional apex comes w...
Jun 26, 2025•28 min
Send us a text On the night of Tisha B’Av, the Jewish people cried out of fear, not from a real threat, but from a perceived one. That night became a tragic turning point in our history, not because of a divine punishment, but because fear itself became the seed of generations of sorrow. This class explores the deeper meaning of those "vain tears" through Torah, psychology, and metaphor. From the self-fulfilling prophecy of the spies, to Harvard's famous "Rosenthal Experiment," to the chained ci...
Jun 19, 2025•31 min
Send us a text In this weeks class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath reveals the Torah’s timeless wisdom for navigating today’s anxious, high-speed world. Rooted in a single verse from Parshat Behaalotecha, we uncover how the cloud that guided the Jewish people through the desert wasn’t just GPS, it was G-d’s embrace, offering a blueprint for emotional resilience. Drawing on deep Talmudic insight, the story of the Mishkan, and modern-day inspiration like the heroism of Natan Sharansky, this class is a jour...
Jun 12, 2025•39 min
Send us a text In this deeply moving and timely class, Rabbi Bernath opens with a heartfelt prayer for the victims of the Boulder attack and a reminder that silence in the face of evil is complicity. From the courtroom of Judgment at Nuremberg to the Torah portion of Naso, we journey through history, law, and soul. We explore the legacy of Joseph, alone, enslaved, and tempted and how a single vision of his father reminded him: One action changes everything. Joseph, who kept Shabbat even in Egypt...
Jun 05, 2025•45 min
Send us a text In this special post-Shabbat sermon recorded for Shavuot, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath takes us on a profound journey through the remarkable history of the Sassoon Codex and the legendary Crown of Aram Tzova. Woven into this tale of ink and parchment is a modern miracle: the voice of a mother reaching her daughter in captivity, reminding us that the Torah is not just a relic, but a living pulse of our people. From ancient scribes in Tiberias to secret hiding spots in Aleppo, from destruc...
Jun 01, 2025•21 min
Send us a text What if the future of Judaism depended not on scholars or sages, but on the sippy cups and crayon-covered siddurim of our children? This powerful class dives into one of the most striking Midrashim about the giving of the Torah: when G-d demanded a guarantor, our ancestors suggested the elders, the prophets, the leaders and were rejected. Only when they offered the children did G-d say: Now we have a deal. But why children? Why not the tzaddikim, the scholars, the sages? And what ...
May 30, 2025•42 min
Send us a text In the aftermath of October 7, Jews around the world experienced a surge of emotion and identity—an outpouring of Jewish adrenaline. But as the energy fades, the real question emerges: what does it actually mean to live a meaningful Jewish life? Rabbi Bernath draws from Dan Senor’s "State of World Jewry" Speech and 92Y last week, A.B. Yehoshua’s challenge to diaspora Jews, and the timeless answers offered by our prophets and sages—from King David to the Rebbe. He reminds us that J...
May 25, 2025•30 min
Send us a text In the shadow of the tragic murder of two young Israeli diplomats, Yaron Lischinsky and Sarah Lynn Milgrim , who dedicated their lives to peace, we confront the heart-wrenching questions: Are we still the Chosen People? Can we still believe in humanity when humanity seems to fall apart? This week’s Torah portion, Bechukotai , addresses blessings and brutal curses, followed by the surprising laws of erchin , evaluating human worth. From this strange juxtaposition, Chassidic masters...
May 22, 2025•25 min
Send us a text Lag B’Omer isn’t just a day for bonfires and bow-and-arrows. It’s the Hilula —the joyous “wedding day”—of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, the mystic who gave us the Zohar and opened the gates of Jewish spiritual consciousness. But why a wedding on the day of someone’s passing ? This class explores the paradox at the heart of both life and love: how our greatest limitations can be our most profound doorways to infinity. We’ll explore Talmudic, Kabbalistic, and Chassidic sources—from the s...
May 15, 2025•38 min
Send us a text In this eye-opening class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores a cryptic Midrash on the tragic deaths of Nadav and Avihu and how it unexpectedly shook the biblical figure of Job. Through this lens, we’ll uncover what this story teaches us about moral responsibility, the danger of silence in the face of injustice, and the timely relevance of speaking up — especially when it’s uncomfortable. With a nod to current events and a dose of Chassidic insight, this session challenges us to rethi...
May 08, 2025•27 min
Send us a text In this powerful class on Parshas Tazria, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores why the Torah repeats the phrase “the Kohen shall look.” Drawing on the teachings of the Meshech Chochma , we’ll discover the Torah’s revolutionary approach to healing—not just diagnosing the symptoms, but seeing the entire person . This class reveals the spiritual roots of what modern medicine now calls "holistic care," and challenges us to become more compassionate, wise, and soul-aware in how we view other...
May 01, 2025•37 min
Send us a text Click HERE to purchase a raffle ticket www.ndgraffle.com Support the show Got your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.com Single? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone. Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donate Follow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernath Access Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Rel...
Apr 24, 2025•34 min
Send us a text In this transformative pre-Passover class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath invites us to reimagine one of the most perplexing passages of the Haggadah—the confrontation with the so-called “wicked” child. At first glance, it seems to suggest aggression. But look again. Beneath the surface lies a profound truth about love, empathy, and the infinite potential within every soul. We explore how the seder is not just about telling a story—it's about healing the parts of ourselves and our loved on...
Apr 09, 2025•41 min
Send us a text Navigating the choppy waters of our inner Nile, where the Pharaoh of Negative Thought reigns supreme, Rabbi Bernath offers a sage map for the modern soul's Exodus. Picture this: an inner Pharaoh, all ego and no ear, refusing the logic we offer as liberally as matzah at Pesach. It's an ancient tale, yet as current as our latest tweet. Enter Moshe, our timeless hero, speaking Hebrew to a Pharaoh who's as lost in translation as a tourist without Google Maps. The catch? It's not about...
Apr 06, 2025•25 min
Send us a text The Passover Seder isn’t just a tradition....it’s an invitation. Not just for guests around your table, but for you . An invitation to show up emotionally, spiritually, and vulnerably. This class explores five Seder moments that, when fully embraced, can transform your night from ritual to revolution. We’ll journey from the cracked matzah to the humble matzah, from our collective memory to our personal growth, from the bitterness of trauma to the sweetness of faith. Discover why i...
Apr 03, 2025•35 min
Send us a text The Exodus from Egypt was not just a historical event—it was a revolution in human consciousness. Moses didn’t only break the physical chains of slavery; he shattered the psychological and spiritual limitations that kept humanity in bondage. This class explores how the Exodus introduced the language of freedom, inspiring revolutions, civil rights movements, and personal transformation throughout history. We will uncover how the lessons of Pesach continue to empower us to break fre...
Mar 27, 2025•30 min
Send us a text Plato argued that reality is found in perfect, unchanging ideals, while the physical world is merely a flawed reflection. Chassidic thought challenges this notion, asserting that G-d’s presence is found precisely in the imperfect, physical world. Through the lens of this debate, we explored how this idea impacts our relationships, personal growth, and spiritual journey—showing that meaning and divine purpose emerge from engaging with reality as it is, rather than escaping to an id...
Mar 20, 2025•32 min
Send us a text Anti-Semitism is not merely another form of bigotry or racial hatred—it is unique in its universality, its persistence throughout history, and its deep, irrational roots. From Pharaoh to Hitler, from ancient Persia to modern-day university campuses, the Jew has been targeted with a singular, unparalleled intensity. Why? What makes this hatred different from all other hatreds? This class delves into the core of Jew-hatred, exploring its historical patterns and its spiritual roots. ...
Mar 13, 2025•49 min
Send us a text The Midrash compares Haman’s plot against the Jews to a foolish bird attempting to drain the sea, beakful by beakful. At first glance, this fable highlights the impossibility of eradicating the Jewish people. But upon deeper examination, it reveals the secret of Jewish survival, the core reason for antisemitism, and the unbreakable bond between the Jewish soul and Torah. Haman’s mistake was in thinking that severing Jews from Torah would make them vulnerable to destruction—yet, as...
Mar 06, 2025•39 min
Send us a text Dive into the profound spiritual significance of Tu B'Shvat, the Jewish 'New Year for Trees.' This class unravels how this ancient day, once focused on tithing fruits as per Talmudic teachings, evolved into a powerful tool for cosmic repair, as revealed by Kabbalistic wisdom. Discover how the simple act of eating fruits during the Tu B'Shvat feast isn't just a culinary delight but a ritual of mending the rift caused by Adam and Eve's original mistake. Learn how enjoying these eart...
Feb 13, 2025•23 min
Send us a text This class explores the seminal Chassidic discourse Basi LeGani , first written by the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, and later expanded upon annually by his successor, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson. This discourse outlines the purpose of creation: transforming the world into G‑d’s garden, a place of divine presence. It introduces the responsibility of the “Seventh Generation”—our generation—to complete this mission and usher in the final rede...
Feb 06, 2025•42 min
Send us a text On Yud Shevat 5711 (1951), the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi MM Schneerson, revolutionized Jewish leadership. He declared a bold vision, not merely to anticipate Moshiach in a distant future, but to actively work towards this era in our lifetime. This audacious goal was set against the backdrop of post-Holocaust Jewish reality, challenging every Jew to contribute to this ultimate redemption. The Rebbe's approach to leadership was groundbreaking. He insisted on a partnership model, wher...
Feb 03, 2025•26 min
Send us a text This class does a deep dive into the psychological and mystical significance of Pharaoh’s final confrontation with Moses before the tenth plague. Throughout the first nine plagues, Pharaoh displayed a surprising level of tolerance towards Moses, despite the devastation he brought upon Egypt. But after the plague of darkness, something shifted—Pharaoh snapped and threatened Moses' life. Why was this the breaking point? Through Kabbalistic insight, we explore the Pharaoh within us a...
Jan 30, 2025•29 min
Send us a text This lecture explores the profound parable of The Thief by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, who teaches that every soul contends with an inner thief—an inclination that robs us of our divine light. Drawing parallels between this concept and the Ten Plagues, Rabbi Bernath delves into how each plague symbolizes a distortion of the ten faculties of the soul, as described in Kabbalah. These ancient episodes of spiritual dysfunction mirror the psychological struggles we face today. Through un...
Jan 23, 2025•41 min
Send us a text The fast of Asarah B'Tevet marks the siege of Jerusalem—a moment that appears subtle in its immediacy but significant in its consequences. Similarly, the story of Joseph reveals how the most painful events in life can lead to profound growth and redemption. By examining the parallels between Joseph’s journey and the lessons of Asarah B'Tevet, we uncover a deeper truth: even in the darkest moments, G-d's hand is guiding us toward transformation, healing, and purpose. This class exp...
Jan 09, 2025•47 min
Send us a text In a world that often feels overwhelming and disappointing, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath brings hope in this thought-provoking episode of "Kabbalah for Everyone." Addressing the deep-seated feeling of disillusionment with humanity, Rabbi Bernath delves into the ancient wisdom of Kabbalah to offer a fresh perspective. This episode guides listeners through understanding the collective journey of mankind, the role of individual actions in healing the world, and how to find personal peace am...
Jan 06, 2025•30 min
Send us a text The dramatic moment when Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, after decades of separation and pain, holds timeless lessons for our lives. This Torah episode is more than a reunion; it is a profound exploration of identity, resilience, and divine purpose. Through Joseph's words, "I am Joseph," we are invited to uncover the paradoxical power of struggle—how challenges, alienation, and darkness can unleash a person's deepest spiritual potential. This lecture delves into the n...
Jan 02, 2025•31 min
Send us a text Got your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.com Single? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone. Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donate Follow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernath Access Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi Click HERE to purchase a raffle t...
Dec 29, 2024•1 hr 14 min•Season 9Ep. 15
Send us a text In this class, Rabb Yisroel Bernath delves into the profound symbolism of the dreidel, a cherished Chanukah tradition. By examining the four sides of the dreidel and their connection to the human psyche—ego, bodily urges, reason, and the compulsion to destroy—we uncover a deeper narrative about human behavior and spirituality. Through the lens of Jewish mysticism, the dreidel becomes a metaphor for balancing our inner struggles and aligning them with our divine essence. The class ...
Dec 23, 2024•27 min
Send us a text The second half of Genesis is filled with dreams that carry profound messages about life, destiny, and action. In this class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores the dreams of Joseph, the butler, and the baker, uncovering their deeper meanings. Through Joseph’s interpretations, we learn a critical distinction: the difference between being active participants in shaping our destiny versus passive observers of life’s circumstances. By understanding this lesson, we are empowered to take c...
Dec 19, 2024•16 min
