Reb Leibish Hundert Weekly

In the town of Streten, they used to say that when the Rebbe finished the closing prayers of Yom Kippur, he was actually a day and a half behind everyone else. For him, time didn't exist—only the interface between the soul and the Source.In this deep and evocative shiur, Rav Leibish Hundert (Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo) dives into the mystery of the "Two Goats" of Yom Kippur and the radical idea of "serving G-d with your Yetzer Hara (evil inclination)."In this episode, we explore:The Rebbe of Streten’s Clock: A legendary story of a Yom Kippur that transcended the physical laws of time.Abraham vs. David: Why David "killed" his negative inclination, but Abraham did something much more difficult—he made a Brit (a covenant) with it.The Two Energies: Understanding the energy required to "do good" versus the awareness needed to "not do bad."Yom Kippur as a Personal Shabbat: Why Shabbat is for the worlds, but Yom Kippur—Shabbat Shabbaton Lachem—is specifically for the ascent of your unique soul.Integrating the Young Boy Within: A moving reflection on identifying the younger versions of ourselves that still drive our adult behaviors, and how to bring them into the "Holy of Holies."Yom Kippur is more than a laundry list of confessions; it is the one day of the year where we are permitted to leave the "math" of our lives behind and step into an unconditional embrace.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem.Recorded August 30, 2026

What if Yom Kippur isn’t about the weight of your debts, but the celebration of being completely forgiven—and given a "new loan" to start again?In this moving shiur, Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the radical teachings of Reb Shlomo Carlebach to uncover the hidden Simcha (joy) of the holiest day of the year. Shlomo used to say that spending all of Yom Kippur counting sins is "almost a chillul Hashem." Instead, Rav Leibish invites us into the Kodesh Kodashim (Holy of Holies) of our own souls to experience a connection with the Divine that transcends time, space, and judgment.In this episode, we explore:The Bank Analogy: Why Yom Kippur is the ultimate "reset" for our spiritual ledger.Childish vs. Childlike: Moving past rigid self-criticism to a place of wonder and "newness" (Chadesh Yamenu K’Kedem).The Secret of the Satan: Understanding the Gematria of HaSatan and why the "prosecutor" is silent on this one day.Confession as a Love Song: Transforming the Viduy (confession) from a list of failures into a melody of longing for a Beloved.Whether you are preparing for the High Holidays or looking to heal your relationship with Teshuva, this teaching offers a path to stop hiding from Hashem and start hiding with Hashem.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem.Recorded Aug 23, 2026.

Good shabbos! #jewishlearning #torah

"What if your mistakes weren't who you are, but simply a moment of 'temporary insanity'?"In this soul-stirring shiur from Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem, Rav Lebisih Hundert dives into the transformative teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov (via the lectures of Rav Kivak) to challenge everything we think we know about Teshuva.Drawing on the profound "inner dimensions" of Jewish practice, Rav Lebisih explores the idea that every Jewish soul is essentially, unviolably good. Using the metaphor of letters carved into stone, he explains that while our actions can sometimes be covered in "dirt," the essence of the letter remains perfect and unchanged.In this episode, we explore:Self-Compassion as a Spiritual Tool: Why the deepest form of Teshuva starts with having mercy on yourself.The Ruach Shtut (Temporary Insanity): Understanding that our failures are alien to our true essence.Hisbodedus (Personal Prayer): How to talk to God not as a judge, but as a best friend who is rooting for your success.The Sound of Friendship: Why the Teruah of the Shofar is actually a call to Re’ut—reconnecting to the bond of friendship between us and the Divine.Whether you are preparing for the High Holidays or simply looking to quiet the voice of your inner critic, this class offers a roadmap for "relaxing into who you really are"—a child of God who is loved, worthy, and infinitely good.Join the conversation and discover the secret to a heart-centered Jewish life.

Based on Likkutei Mahran 185.

Based on Likkutei Ma'haran 185.

Good shabbos!

Based on LM 185

The king is in the field! Based on Likkutei MaHaran 185

What if the most "disconnected" person in the room is actually the key to the holiness of the day?In this deeply moving shiur, Rav Leibish Hundert (Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem) dives into the radical teachings of Rebbe Shlomo Carlebach regarding the inner dimensions of Yom Kippur.Too often, regular shul-goers view those who only show up once a year as "guests." But Reb Shlomo taught the opposite: it is specifically the "Outsider Jew"—and the "outsider" part within each of our own souls—that transforms Yom Kippur into the Kodesh Hakodashim (Holy of Holies).In this episode, we explore:The Power of Alienation: Why modern disconnection might actually be a gateway to the highest level of the soul (Yechida).Kol Nidrei as Liberation: How the opening prayer of Yom Kippur allows us to unshackle ourselves from our habitual patterns and return to the "pre-creation" version of ourselves.The Siberian Kol Nidrei: A breathtaking story of a secret Jew in a concentration camp whose voice broke through the cruelty of the Soviet guards.Whether you feel like an "insider" or a "stranger" this year, this shiur invites you to find the "Yom Kippur Jew" within and realize that no one is ever truly an outsider in the eyes of Hashem.

Gut chodesh!

Gut chodesh!

Do you ever feel "torn up" by the pressure to be a perfect version of yourself?In this week’s shiur on Parsha Re'eh, Rav Leibish Hundert explores the "inner dimensions" of our relationship with Hashem as we prepare for the month of Elul. Drawing from a mysterious dream had by the Smag (Rav Moshe of Coucy), Rav Leibish reveals a forgotten mitzvah: the command not to forget Hashem amidst our busy lives—and how that "forgetting" often manifests as spiritual anxiety and self-criticism.In this episode, we explore:The Trap of Excessive Fear: Why the Rambam warns leaders (and ourselves) against using "fear" as a primary motivator."Banim Atem": Reclaiming our status as children of Hashem who are meant to be beautiful, not "cut up" by trauma or perfectionism.The Chacham vs. The Tam: How Rebbe Nachman’s classic tale of the Wise Man and the Simpleton teaches us to find a "clean profit" in our simple service of G-d.Practical Compassion: Why something as simple as making breakfast for your children is a profound act of spiritual leadership.As we enter the season of Teshuva, Rav Leibish invites us to stop comparing our "unfinished shoes" to the masterpieces of others and instead find the sweetness in the path that is uniquely ours.About Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo:Located in the heart of Jerusalem, Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo is dedicated to the teachings of Rav Shlomo Carlebach

How do we move from the lowliness of Tisha B’Av to the heights of Shabbat Nachamu?In this week’s exploration of the inner dimensions of the Parsha, Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the profound spiritual mechanics of "Preparation" (Hachana). Drawing from the Shulchan Aruch, the stories of Rabbi Shimon Galai, and the deep Chassidic teachings of Rav Noson of Breslov, we uncover why the physical labor of a Mitzvah is often more significant than the Mitzvah itself.In this episode, we explore:The Power of Physicality: Why the great Sages insisted on splitting their own wood and chopping their own vegetables for Shabbat.Koach HaMoshech vs. Koach HaMachriach: Understanding the spiritual "gravity" that pulls us toward the Divine versus the forces that push us away.Addiction vs. Diction: A powerful linguistic insight into turning our silent struggles into a vocal, expressive relationship with Hashem.The "Pre-Made" Trap: Why a life of convenience can actually rob us of our spiritual joy (Simcha).Preparation as Consolation: How the act of "getting ready"—whether for Shabbat, a Sukkah, or the arrival of Mashiach—is where the real comfort lies.Whether you're washing dishes or learning Torah, this shiur will change the way you view the "mundane" tasks of your week.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Yerushalayim.

How do we move from the depths of brokenness to the heights of consolation?In this week’s exploration of Parsha Eikev, Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the inner dimensions of the Jewish calendar and the "Seven Haftorot of Nechama" (Consolation). We explore why the process of being comforted is not a one-time event, but a seven-layered journey of psychological and spiritual healing.In this episode, we discuss:The "Taste" of the Land: Understanding Rashi’s profound insight on the "air" of Eretz Yisrael and how it literally makes us wise.Hispa’arus (Divine Pride): The radical concept that Hashem takes pride in our smallest efforts, wearing the Jewish people as His own "Tefillin."The Gaze of the Infinite: What it means for the "Eyes of God" to be on the Land from the beginning of the year to the end, and how our own consciousness affects that reality.The Holiness of Eating: Why the "Cup of Blessing" (Kos Shel Bracha) is a gateway to seeing our own reflection in the Infinite.The King’s Minister: A powerful parable for the upcoming season of Rosh Hashanah—why we can "dance in the jailhouse" when we truly know the goodness of the King.Join us for a deep dive into the light of the Piaseczno Rebbe, Rav Nachman of Breslov, and the Shulchan Aruch as we prepare our hearts for the transition from Eikev to the High Holy Days.

Gut shabbos!

A gut chodesh!

Why were Haman’s gallows exactly 50 amot high? Rav Lebish Hundert dives into a mind-bending Midrash that traces the wood of Mordechai’s execution stake all the way back to Noah’s Ark.In this session, we explore the "50th Gate"—the realm beyond nature where Haman sought to tap into ultimate impurity, and where the Jewish people found ultimate salvation. Rav Lebish discusses the "Doubt of the Tzaddik," the mystery of the "Vacated Space" (Chalal HaPanui), and why some questions can only be answered in silence.Highlights include:Haman’s spiritual calculation and the 365 advisors.Why genocide begins with "not seeing" each other.The transition from the joy of Purim to the depths of the Nine Days.Spiritual "Bumper Cars": Why we need space to truly connect.

What does it mean to be a "nobody" in the eyes of Heaven? Rav Lebish Hundert continues our series on the teachings of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, focusing on the transition from the 17th of Tammuz to the depths of Tisha B'Av.Reb Shlomo taught that the Beis HaMikdash was destroyed because we didn't "see" each other. This week, we explore how the "Secret of Suffering" (Razi Li) actually serves as the ultimate reset for our relationships and our connection to the Infinite.Highlights include:The "Barefoot Philosophy": Why status disappears in Harlem and on Tisha B'Av.Moving from L’Khol Yisrael to El Bnei Yisrael—hearing the pain of every soul.The paradox of the "High Doctor": When the only answer is "I don’t know."Step out of the ivory tower of intellectual Torah and into the real, broken, and beautiful world of the Soul of Jerusalem.

Why does Yom Kippur only work once we’ve appeased our neighbors? Rav Leibish Hundert explores the inner dimensions of teshuvah (repentance), childhood trauma, and the “uncircumcised heart.”In this week’s shiur on Parshat Matot-Masei, we delve into:The Law of Forgiveness: Why seeking appeasement is more than just a ritual.The Rebbe-Student Dynamic: The danger of pushing a soul away too hard (and the tragic lesson of "Yoshko").The Split of Menashe: Why was half the tribe left on the East Bank? Discover the spiritual reverberations of Yosef’s "cup in the bag" and the healing power of Rebbe Nachman’s Hisbodedus.Market Laws & Spiritual "Sixths": How the laws of overcharging (ona’ah) mirror our own spiritual mistakes and the path to being "forgiven by default."Join us for a transformative session on finding the "still small voice" amidst the storms of life.

"All this is worth nothing to me." How can a person who has reached the pinnacle of power, wealth, and prestige be utterly consumed by a single man who refuses to bow?In this installment of our Purim series, Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the dark psychology of Haman (Megillat Esther, Perek 5) to uncover the "Inner Serpent" that still whispers to us today. Moving between the King’s palace, the Garden of Eden, and the modern Shabbat table, this shiur explores:The Calculated Restraint of Evil: Why Haman’s ability to "hold back" was his most dangerous trait.The "Aff" Connection: Decoding the linguistic link between Haman’s anger and the original deception of the Nachash (Serpent).Competition vs. Creation: Why a worldview based on hierarchy leaves us perpetually "starving," while the Tzadik finds satiety (Sveiah) in the smallest of moments.The Medicine of Oneg: A powerful story from a Chicago shtiebel on the healing frequency of U’masbia and why enjoying your life is the ultimate spiritual weapon against Haman.Join us as we learn how to step out of the "authority and force" mindset and into the light of our own unique Ratzon (Desire).Deepen your Purim. Find your satiety.Recorded July 6, 2026

How can a day of total destruction be the source of our greatest healing?In this soul-stirring shiur, Rav Lebisih Hundert of Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo (Jerusalem) explores the teachings of Reb Shlomo Carlebach on the inner dimensions of Tisha B’Av. Moving through the profound "Feeling the Pain of Destruction," Rav Lebisih dives into the paradox of the Holy Temple: why it is considered "completely rebuilt" even in its ruined state, and why the future Temple will forever contain its own brokenness.In this episode, we explore:The Mystery of the Kruvim (Cherubim): What the "moment of saying goodbye" in the Holy of Holies teaches us about our relationship with the Infinite.Comforting the Father: A radical look at the Radomsker Rebbe’s teaching on the son who forgets his own pain to console his grieving Father (God).The Torn Page: The powerful story of the Bobover Rebbe finding a single page of Gemara in a Nazi general's trash, and what it means to treasure "broken Torah."The Secret of the Letter Tet: How the shape of the number 9 reveals a hidden opening toward Heaven, even when we feel entirely closed off.Shlomo Molcho & Mashiach: The haunting and heroic story of the monk who returned to his roots and the "birth" of redemption within the fire of Tisha B'Av.Whether you are preparing for the fast or seeking to understand the "holiness of the broken heart," this teaching offers a roadmap for turning our deepest national and personal sorrows into a vessel for light.About this Series:This shiur is part of a series exploring the deep Chassidic and Kabbalistic insights of Reb Shlomo Carlebach, as taught at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in the heart of Yerushalayim.Follow & Subscribe to stay updated on new teachings from Rav Lebisih Hundert.Tisha B'Av, Shlomo Carlebach, Chassidut, Jewish Spirituality, Jerusalem, Simchat Shlomo, Rav Lebisih Hundert, Kabbalah, Mashiach, Inner Dimensions, The Three Weeks, Jewish History.Recorded July 5, 2026.

Good shabbos!Note: outside of Eretz Yisrael parshas Balak is being read this week.

"We should be so happy that we don't even remember the Temple isn't standing."Rav Lebish Hundert shares a "bombastic" teaching from the 1500s that explains the true, hidden purpose of the Purim feast. Purim isn't just about celebrating a past miracle; it's about a state of consciousness that is higher than both Exile (Galut) and Redemption (Geulah).Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, this episode explores the "romantic" side of the Shema, the steadfastness of Mordechai, and why the joy of Purim is the ultimate "redemption from the redemption."Recorded June 29, 2026

Is hatred just another sin, or is it something far more destructive? Rav Lebish Hundert shares a soulful Breslov and Carlebach perspective on the destruction of Jerusalem and the path to its rebuilding. Learn how to transform "have to" into "longing to" and find the "misfit stone" within your own soul that belongs at the head of the corner. Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem.#ShlomoCarlebach #Jerusalem #Torah #JewishSpirituality #RavLebishHundert #SimchatShlomo #HolyOfHolies #JewishMeditation #Chassidus #Misfits #Zion #SpiritualGrowthRecorded June 29, 2026

Is your spiritual life feeling dry? Rav Lebish Hundert shares Rebbe Nachman’s secret to finding God when He feels furthest away. Learn the concept of Yichud HaRikchuk and find out why feeling distant is often the first step toward a much deeper connection. Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem.Recorded July 1, 2026.

Why do we often hide our real selves when we show up to talk to God? In this moving shiur, Rav Lebish Hundert shares a powerful Breslov parable about an orphan, a secret pain, and the true meaning of friendship.Drawing on the teachings of Rebbe Nachman and the insights of Rav Kivak, Rav Hundert explains why "talking Torah" is sometimes a mask for the soul, and how we can build a "safe container" to finally tell God the truth. If you’ve ever felt a distance in your prayer or wondered what it actually means to have a "Soul Friend" (Yedid Nefesh), this episode is for you.Highlights include:The Orphan’s Parable: Moving from intellectual connection to emotional truth.Why God is looking for "Friends," not just "Subjects."The Stephen Covey connection: How to be a better listener to your own soul.Why feeling the pain of the Galus (Exile) is a sign of ultimate closeness.Recorded June 24, 2026.

"Where are you?"In this week's deep dive into the inner dimensions of Parshat Korach, Rav Leibish Hundert explores the transformative power of Ma’alin B’Kodesh—the principle that in holiness, we must always ascend.Starting with the simple halachic order of our Tallit and Tefillin, Rav Leibish unpacks a profound psychological roadmap: life isn't about jumping to the finish line; it’s about a tiered experience of growth, step by step, level by level.In this episode, we explore:The Korach Trap: Why the ego demands 'bombastic' complexity while the soul thrives on Moshe’s simplicity.The "Ayekah" Call: Understanding Hashem’s question to Adam HaRishon not as a search for location, but as an invitation to conversation.Healing the Story: How we create ‘Sinat Chinam’ (baseless hatred) by the stories we wrap around our pain, and how to peel them back to find the truth.The 130-Year Shift: How 130 years of heaviness transforms into 'KaL' (Lightness) through the power of Teshuva and simple speech.Join us for a journey from the 'cold' separation of Korach to the warm, simple connection of a soul talking to its Creator.About Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo:Located in the heart of Jerusalem, Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo is dedicated to the teachings of Rav Shlomo Carlebach ztz"l and the Chassidic masters, focusing on serving Hashem with joy, song, and deep inner work.Connect with us:Keep the fire burning. Subscribe for weekly Parsha insights and soulful Torah from Yerushalayim.[Note: Outside of Eretz Yisroel, Parshas Shelach is being read this shabbs]

“How can pain not cause a separation between the one in pain and the One providing it?”In this week’s installment of our series on Rebbe Nachman’s path to the heart (based on the teachings of Rav Kivak), Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the "Pikpuk"—the tiny, almost imperceptible doubts and complaints that build a thick wall between us and Hashem over time.Drawing on the classic metaphor of the Princess and the Pea, Rav Leibish explains that as children of the King, we are incredibly sensitive. Even a "hair’s breadth" of feeling that Hashem is acting improperly toward us can sabotage our Simcha and turn our Hisbodedus from a deep relationship into a cold, transactional business meeting.In this episode, we explore:The Anatomy of a Disconnect: How small misunderstandings grow into "thick walls" of separation.Simcha vs. Depression: Why true joy isn't about ignoring pain, but about feeling the reality of your life wholeheartedly.The "Spies" in Our Own Heads: Lessons from Parshat Shlach on how we project our own self-judgments onto God.Practical Hisbodedus: How to speak to Hashem like a trusted friend (K'dabber Ish el Re'ehu), bringing your whole "pekel" (burden) into the room rather than leaving your complaints at the door.If you’ve ever felt like your prayers were "hitting a ceiling" or struggled to feel God’s love during a difficult season, this shiur offers a roadmap back to Pshitus (simplicity) and a clean, honest connection with the Infinite.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem on June 10, 2026.

“The miracle doesn’t start when the war is won; it starts the moment your perception changes.”In this soulful shiur recorded on the 23rd of Sivan—the very day Mordechai the Tzaddik sent his second set of letters across the Persian Empire—Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the inner mechanics of Redemption.In this episode, Rav Leibish explores:The Mystery of the Animals: What are the “Ha’achashteranim Benei Ha’ramachim”? Discover why the Sages of the Talmud intentionally left these words untranslated and what that teaches us about the nature of miracles.Heart over Intellect: Why the Halacha allows you to fulfill the mitzvah of Megilla even if you don’t understand a single word of Hebrew.The 23rd of Sivan vs. the 13th of Adar: Understanding why the Jews experienced “Light, Joy, Gladness, and Honor” months before the actual physical salvation took place.Togetherness as a Weapon: Drawing from Rebbe Nachman’s teachings on the “power of combinations,” Rav Leibish explains how the simple act of Jews gathering—even over Zoom—creates a spiritual frequency that causes Amalek to fall.Whether you are feeling the "constriction" of current events or looking for a way to speed up your own personal Geula, this teaching offers a roadmap to shifting your awareness and tapping into the underlying miracle of existence.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Yerushalayim on June 8. 2026.

“God created the world for those people who know the secret of beginning.”In this deeply moving shiur from Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem, Rav Leibish Hundert explores the inner dimensions of Bereishit through the lens of Reb Shlomo Carlebach’s teachings. Moving from the subterranean tunnels of the Temple to the modern-day struggle with spiritual exhaustion, Rav Leibish invites us to rediscover the “nowness” of reality.In this episode, we discuss:The Secret of Beginnings: Why Bereishit isn’t just a historical event, but a constant energy of renewal that allows us to start over at any moment.The "Shishin" (Subterranean Tunnels): How we connect to the Infinite not just by reaching "high," but by going deep into the earth and our own physicality.Standing Whole Before Hashem: Why the Beit HaMikdash (and Shabbat) requires us to bring our "baggage" inside, rather than leaving our struggles at the door.The Plurality of Tears: A profound look at why the word for water (Ma’yim) is always plural—and the comfort of knowing that when we cry, God is always crying with us.The Story that Saved a Life: A powerful account of how Shlomo’s teaching on the "newness of nature" transformed a man's darkest moment into a reason to live.Join us for a journey into the heart of Jerusalem, where the past and future meet at the Wall, and where every moment is an invitation to begin again.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Yerushalayim on June 7, 2026.

In this soulful and deep dive into the inner dimensions of ParshatsShlach, Rav Lebisih Hundert explores the profound connection between the failure of the Meraglim (the Spies) and the corrective medicine of the Mitzvah of Tzitzit.Drawing from the Shulchan Aruch, the Arizal, and the teachings of Rebbe Nachman, Rav Lebisih discusses:Healing the Heart & Eyes: How the heart and eyes act as the "scouts" of our own bodies, and how gazing at Tzitzit recalibrates our spiritual vision.The Portal of the Ten Sefirot: The Kabbalistic significance of the knots and strings of the Tzitzit as a gateway to the Infinite (Atik Yomin).Overcoming Melancholy: A powerful story of a Tzaddik’s journey from deep depression to the highest levels of joy (Simcha Temidi) by reclaiming the simplest identity of being a Jew.Cosmic Impact of Small Steps: Why a "hair's breadth" movement toward Hashem—even when we feel stagnant—is more valuable than a thousand miles of spiritual travel in the higher worlds.Join us for a transformative lesson on how to find constant joy in the smallest spiritual movements, even in the most constricted places.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Yerushalayim.

Why would Esther invite the arch-enemy of the Jews to a private banquet with the King?In this installment of our Purim series, Rav Lebish Hundert dives into Perek 5 of the Megillah, exploring the 12 cryptic reasons offered by the Gemara (Megilla 15b) for Esther’s counter-intuitive invitation to Haman.Drawing on the transformative teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov (Likutey Moharan, Torah 8), Rav Lebish reveals how Esther’s actions weren’t just political maneuvers, but a deep spiritual confrontation with the "Reshaim" (negativity) inside and out.In this shiur, we explore:The Power of the Anachah (The Sigh): How a single deep breath can bridge the gap between "lack" and "wholeness."The Four Elements: How fire, air, water, and earth manifest as either holiness or destructive character traits.Childlike Trust: Why "listening to the children" (Pesukim) is the key to overcoming cynicism and despair.The Gematria of "The King": Seeing Hashem’s presence even in the most hidden moments of the Purim story.Join us at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem as we learn how to breathe through the darkness and find the "Sova" (true satisfaction) that lies at the heart of the Purim miracle.Support the Torah: If you find these teachings meaningful, please follow, rate us 5 stars, and share this episode with someone who needs a "Holy Sigh" today.Location: Recorded live at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Nachlaot, Yerushalayim.

Good shabbos! (Note: Outside of eretz yisroel, Parshas Nasso is being read from the Torah this week).#torah #jewish #jewishlearning

Can a single breath change your reality? Rav Lebish Hundert explores Rebbe Nachman’s radical approach to prayer when you're feeling stuck, muted, or anxious. If you can't talk to God like a friend today, Rebbe Nachman says: just sigh. Join the chevre at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem as we learn to turn our pain into a vessel for unification and freshness.

We all have layers of "sediment" from life—grievances, fears, and old narratives that block our light. Rav Lebish Hundert discusses the two stages of healing: the character work of Sefirat HaOmer and the revelatory power of Matan Torah. Discover how a deeper connection to the "Black Fire on White Fire" of the Torah’s letters can heal the imagination and bring a "fresh life" into your daily practice.

"Why does it often feel that the harder we try to get close to Hashem, the further away He seems to move?"In this episode, Rav Lebisih Hundert dives into Meishiv Nafshi (Siman 20) and Rebbe Nachman’s Torah 74, unpacking one of the most vital paradoxes in the life of a seeker: Hisrachakus hu techilas ha'hiskarvus — Distance is the beginning of closeness.In this shiur, we explore:The Interpersonal Mirror: Why we need distance to truly "see" and connect with another person, and how that translates to our relationship with the Infinite.Dina d’Kadisha vs. Dina d’Mesavuta: Learning to distinguish between "Holy Resistance" (the muscle-building of the soul) and the "Impure Judgment" that leads to ye'ush (despair).The Power of 'Gimguma': Why learning Torah without understanding is sometimes the most powerful spiritual act a person can perform in the darkness.Sweetening the Judgments: Practical tools for when your hisbodedus feels empty and your davening feels mechanical.Whether you are in a season of "expanded consciousness" or feel like you are "walking blindly," this teaching offers a lifeline of chizuk to help you hold on until the light returns.Source Material: Meishiv Nafshi, Siman 20; Likutey Moharan, Torah 74.Location: Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Yerushalayim.#RebbeNachman #Breslov #RavLebisihHundert #Torah #JewishSpirituality #Hitbodedut #Emunah #Chassidut #SimchatShlomo #MentalHealth #SpiritualGrowthRecorded May 27, 2026

In this soulful 49th-birthday shiur, Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the inner dimensions of Megillat Esther (5:3). Why does Achashverosh offer Esther only "half the kingdom"? Through the lens of Chassidut and the teachings of the Izhbitzer and Rav Nachman, we explore the deep secret of Chatzi HaMalchut—the 50/50 partnership between us and Hashem.Rav Leibish connects the "rushed" redemption of Pesach to the "slow" redemption of Shavuot, revealing how the Hebrew word for "Crown" (Keter) is fundamentally tied to the act of "Waiting" (Katar).Key themes:The spiritual significance of curiosity (Ma).Why shared pain is the highest form of intimacy with the Divine.The transition from the "rushed" Pesach energy to the "slow" Shavuot energy.Self-forgiveness as the greatest gift we can give our children.

"God, let my Zaidy be healthy." In this soulful deep dive, Rav Lebish Hundert explores Rebbe Nachman’s radical teaching on spontaneous prayer: that the shortest path to the Infinite is through your mother tongue.Drawing on the lectures of Rav Kivak (Avraham Tzvi Kluger) and the legacy of Rebbe Nachman, we explore:The Power of "Anochi": Why the very first word of the Ten Commandments is actually an Egyptian word, and what that teaches us about finding God in our "lowly" languages.Positive Regression: Learning to break the "adult script" of calculation and etiquette to speak with the directness of a child.Functional vs. True Communication: Understanding the 38-year silence between God and Moshe.Join us at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem as we learn to turn our everyday speech into a bridge to the Divine.Recorded May 13, 2026

Is your religious identity a bridge to the Divine, or just a performance? In this deep dive into the inner dimension of Purim, Rav Lebish Hundert (Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo) unpacks a startling insight from the Gemara: the word Frummy as a mask used to frighten children.Drawing on the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov and the Rebbe Reb Meilech, Rav Lebish explores:The "Sandwich Metaphor": Connecting the oneness of God with the oneness of "Me."Why God’s "livelihood" depends on your simple Baruch Hashem.The link between existential injustice (Tzedek) and the compulsivity of eating.Moving from the "Monkey identity" (Kof) to the royalty of the soul.Join us in the courtyard of the King as we learn to take off the mask and finally feel satisfied.Recorded May 11, 2026

Rav Lebish Hundert (Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo) explores the profound teaching that Torah must be learned with "great joy" (Simcha Gedola). Drawing on the wisdom of Shlomo Carlebach, this shiur challenges us to move past the "should's" of religion and find the life-giving energy hidden within the letters.Highlights include:Why Birkat HaTorah is the "inside of the inside."The story of the Rav who jumped for joy every morning.The Halakhic "Heter" of the heart: How Rav Moshe Feinstein saved a soul.Recorded May 10, 2026.

Why do the greatest leaders of the Jewish people always seem like outsiders?In this profound exploration of Parshat Bamidbar, Rav Lebish Hundert takes us from the technical laws of Eruv Tavshilin to the heart of the "Lost Sheep"—the cry of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov.As we prepare for Shavuot and look at the census of the tribes in the desert, we discover a startling paradox: the most elevated souls—Moshe, Yosef, and Levi—stayed "outside" the traditional camp structures. Rav Lebish delves into:The Eruv of the Soul: Understanding Kedusha Achas (One Holiness) and how we bridge the gap between our "good days" and our source.The Outsider’s Advantage: Why Moshe Rabbeinu’s lack of a traditional "Palace education" allowed him to lead a nation of individuals.The Lost Sheep (Torah 206): A deep dive into Rebbe Nachman’s teaching on Taisi Keseh Oved—why feeling lost is often the first step toward being found by the Infinite.Higher Love (Ahava Sheb’Da’at): Moving beyond conditional "if-then" spirituality into the unconditional embrace of Shabbat.Whether you are feeling "lost in the desert" or seeking a deeper connection to the upcoming holiday of Shavuot, this shiur offers a map for the soul that values the journey as much as the destination.A gut shabbos!

Are you a "bad neighbor"?In this deep and soulful exploration of Parshat Behar-Bechukotai, Rav Lebisih Hundert dives into the inner dimensions of the Beit Knesset and the radical definition of what it means to be a neighbor. Drawing from the Shulchan Aruch, the Ramban, and the transformative teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov, Rav Lebisih challenges our modern tendency toward isolation.In this episode, we explore:The "Bad Neighbor": Why the Mishna Berura defines a bad neighbor not by what they do, but by where they don't go."Being Found": The spiritual difference between just "praying" in a synagogue and being Matzui—truly present and found within the community.Ending the Galus: How seeing a friend’s face is a form of Techiyat HaMetim (revival of the dead) and why human connectivity is the ultimate key to Geula (redemption).The Vulnerability of the Tzaddik: Rebbe Nachman’s unique ability to reach the "lowest of the low" by recognizing that we never truly know the full greatness of Hashem.Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and join the chevra at Simchat Shlomo for a L'chaim as we learn how to step out of our individual "pits" and into the light of each other’s presence.

Do you ever find yourself "working the system" with Hashem?In this powerful shiur based on the teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov and Rav Kivak, Rav Leibish Hundert explores the "inner lawyer" we all carry—the voice that rationalizes our mistakes and hides our true selves behind Torah sources and justifications.Rav Leibish challenges us to stop "hiding in the garden" and instead embrace the spiritual discomfort required for real growth. Using a striking analogy of physical fitness, he explains how spiritual strength is like "getting ripped" at the gym: muscles only grow when they are torn. True Hisbodedus requires tearing through our own rationalizations to reach a place of Emes L’Amitah—the truth of the truth.In this episode, we explore:The Spiritual Gym: Why the discomfort of being raw with Hashem is the only way to build lasting soul-strength.Adam’s Mistake: Analyzing the "Ayeka" (Where are you?) moment in Eden and how we still hide today.Abstract Truth vs. Present Truth: How we use holy sources to lie to ourselves, and how to start speaking from where we actually are.Rosh Hashanah & the Shofar: Moving beyond "working the system" to a place of Nisinas HaLev—giving Hashem our real hearts.Join us for a deep dive into Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo’s signature blend of Chassidus, vulnerability, and radical honesty. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner of Hisbodedus or just starting to talk to God like a friend, this shiur will change the way you show up on the prayer rug.About the Series:This series explores the inner dimensions of Jewish practice through the lens of Breslov Chassidus, recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem.Recorded May 6, 2026.

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Purim is rapidly approaching! What does it truly mean to "wake up"?In this installment of our series on the inner dimensions of Purim, Rav Lebish Hundert explores the profound moment Queen Esther "donned her royalty"—moving from a state of victimhood and "prison clothes" to active, Divine agency.Drawing on powerful imagery from the Zohar Hakadosh and the secrets of Lag Ba’Omer, Rav Lebish delves into:The Transformation of the Dark: Why the Zohar calls out specifically to those who know how to turn bitterness into sweetness.The Gazelle of the Dawn (Ayelet HaShachar): Understanding our souls as the elusive gazelle that Hashem seeks through the darkness.Perfection vs. Shlemut (Wholeness): A radical Chassidic look at why our "impoverished" efforts—the 30 seconds of showing up when we are struggling—are more precious to Heaven than the "perfect" service of angels.Waking Up to Your Goodness: Re-defining "sleep" as the inability to see your own good points (Nekudot Tovot) and how to "breathe into" your own spiritual process.This shiur is a call to take the resources we already have—even those that feel like "prison clothes"—and use them to change the world.Lechaim!Recorded April 27, 2026.

Good shabbos!

Have you ever experienced a powerful "awakening"—a burst of inspiration to do Teshuvah, visit a Tzaddik, or finally fix a bad habit—only to have it vanish a week later?In this episode, Rav Lebish Hundert explores a revolutionary teaching from Rebbe Nachman of Breslov regarding the "New Yetzer Hara." We often mistake a loss of inspiration for a spiritual failure. Rebbe Nachman teaches the opposite: if you feel a new, heavier resistance, it is proof that you won the previous battle. You haven't fallen; you’ve just moved into a higher "weight class."In this shiur, we discuss:The Lying Enemy: How the Yetzer Hara hides your past victories to make you feel like you're standing in the exact same place as years ago.The Cherub vs. The Bull: The deep secret of Yechezkel’s vision—turning the harsh "bull" of judgment into the "cherub" of childlike freshness.High-Level Stumbling Blocks: Why even great souls face a Yetzer Hara that looks like a "Holy Angel," pushing us toward pride or impossible expectations.The "Energy Bunny" of the Soul: How to cultivate Hitkhadshut (Renewal) as a way of life, rather than just a one-time event.If you’re feeling like you’re "trudging through spiritual molasses," this episode is the "spinach" you need to get back in the ring.Recorded April 23, 2026

Why is it that we can learn Torah for years, feel inspired in the moment, and yet remain fundamentally unchanged on the inside?In this episode, Rav Lebish Hundert explores a powerful teaching from Rav Kivak (based on the path of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov) regarding the "receiving vessel" of the soul. He distinguishes between general inspiration—what he calls "spiritual window shopping"—and the transformative power of Yichud (Exclusive Unification).In this shiur, we explore:The Marriage Metaphor: Why our relationship with the Divine requires the same exclusivity as a wedding canopy.Absorption (Klitah): How Torah becomes "spiritual food" that actually changes our DNA, and why that only happens when we stop "browsing" other teachers and paths.The Power of Small Talk: Rebbe Nachman’s incredible insight into how talking to God about the "missing socks" in your life creates a private chamber where the Infinite King focuses solely on you.Locomotive Living: How the modern "crazy" pace of moving from place to place prevents us from being here and receiving what God wants to give us.If you’ve ever felt like your spiritual life was "hovering" around you rather than entering into you, this episode offers the keys to building a committed, exclusive, and deeply personal connection with the Master of the World.

"If being connected to God makes you a person who still has the glee to jump in a puddle—that’s the kind of religion I want."In this deeply moving shiur, Rav Lebisih Hundert explores a mysterious passage in the Gemara: Why does the tradition record Mordechai passing through a simple puddle on his way to save the Jewish people?Drawing from the radical teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov and a classic Rav Shlomo Carlebach story from the streets of Montreal, Rav Lebisih challenges us to move beyond "status religion" and embrace the "pre-verbal" joy of a soul in motion.In this episode, we dive into:The Puddle and the Prophet: Why small, messy acts done for Heaven are more momentous than "heroic" gestures.Purim vs. Pesach: Understanding Rebbe Nachman’s teaching that Purim—not Pesach—is the true root of every beginning.The Smell of Torah: Why Mordechai is associated with Myrrh (fragrance) and how our "scent" for the Divine is more accurate than our sight.From Status to Soul: How to break the "idolatry" of spiritual hierarchy and find the holiness in dancing and simple faith.Whether you are navigating the heavy days of Yom HaZikaron or looking for the spiritual "reset button" of Purim, this talk offers a map for finding the Shekhinah in the most unexpected places.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Nachlaot, Jerusalem.Host: Rav Lebisih HundertThemes: Purim, Rebbe Nachman, Rav Shlomo Carlebach, Sefirat HaOmer.