Reb Leibish Hundert Weekly

"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.

🔥

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.

Why do we go from the highest high of Pesach straight into 49 days of intense counting?In this installment of the Inner Dimensions series, Rav Lebisih Hundert (Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Jerusalem) dives into the profound teachings of Rav Shlomo Carlebach to uncover the Kabbalistic machinery behind the spring holidays.In this episode, we explore:Vitamin M: Why Matzah is "unfiltered light" (Or Ein Sof) that enters the body beyond the reach of the intellectual mind.The Art of Tzimtzum: How the act of "contraction" is actually the highest form of love—making space for a friend, a partner, or the Divine.Making Vessels: Why Sefirat HaOmer is the 49-day process of building the "vessels" of character (Middos) to catch the infinite light we received at the Seder table.The Vorker & The Amshinov: Deep Chassidic stories about balancing strictness with love and finding the holiness within every number.Whether you're deep in the Omer count or looking to understand the "pre-verbal" power of Torah, this shiur offers a map for turning spiritual inspiration into a stable, lived reality.Recorded at Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo, Nachlaot, Yerushalayim.Host: Rav Lebisih HundertTopic: Sefirat HaOmer / Pesach / KabbalahSeries: The Teachings of Rav Shlomo Carlebach

Are you stuck in a "spiritual teenage wasteland"? In this episode, Rav Lebish Hundert (Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo) unpacks the profound psychological layers of Sefirat HaOmer. This isn't just a countdown to Shavuot; it’s a 49-day process of healing the core wounds of our childhood and teenage selves to achieve true maturity (Gadlut).Rav Lebish explains the Arizal’s hidden structure of the Omer:The 4 Types of Consciousness: Navigating the stages of human growth.Redeeming the "Lost Princess": How to bring wonder and curiosity back into your adult life.The "Yes" to Physicality: Why counting numbers is a sacred act of embracing our embodied reality.

Come enter Pesach feeling connecting, present, and aligned.#jewishlearning #passover #pesach #torah

"The most painful thing in the world is to be on the outside."Rav Lebish Hundert explores a radical perspective on Passover cleaning: it isn't about the dust, it's about the "Mashu"—that tiny, almost invisible mental block that keeps us from connecting to Hashem and those we love.In this episode, we learn:Why jealousy is a "spiritual mistake" based on a lack of self-knowledge.How to stop blaming the world and start taking ownership of your own "inner house."The secret of Or Nach (the Calm Light) and how it heals the frantic energy of the holiday prep.Passover, Pesach, Rav Lebish Hundert, Shlomo Carlebach, Ishbitzer Rebbe, Jewish Meditation, Jerusalem, Torah, Bedikat Chametz, Spiritual Growth, Personal Responsibility.

good shabbos!

In this profound episode, Rav Leibish Hundert dives into the core of Hisbodedus (Jewish meditation/secluded prayer), focusing on the concept of Ne’emanus v’Hismasrus Muchletus—Total Loyalty and Self-Surrender.Drawing from the teachings of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov and the Sefer Hishtapchus HaNefesh, Rav Leibish explores why true spiritual connection requires us to leave "not even a hair’s breadth" of our lives hidden from the Creator.Highlights of this session include:The Spiritual Filibuster: How pouring your heart out to Hashem can "talk His ear off," potentially halting negative decrees and focusing Divine energy entirely on your needs.The "Locked Room" Metaphor: Why keeping even one small part of your life (business, embarrassments, or self-reliance) separate from God prevents a truly "open" relationship.Chametz of the Heart: Recorded in the shadow of Pesach, Rav Leibish likens our hidden secrets and areas of false independence to chametz—the leaven that must be scrubbed away to achieve a clean heart.From "Baby Food" to Maturity: Understanding the stages of spiritual growth, from total dependency on Hashem (receiving) to active, creative contribution (giving).A Moment of Reality: Mid-way through the shiur, an air raid siren (azaka) forces the group into a safe room, providing a raw, real-time example of "running to the Source" under pressure.Join Rav Leibish for a transformative discussion on how to stop "fooling ourselves" and start relating to Hashem with the absolute transparency of a true friend.

Why does the Mishnah call the night of the search for chametz (leavened bread) "light"?In this episode of the Shlomo Carlebach Series, Rav Leibish explores the profound spiritual preparation for Passover. Drawing on the wisdom of the Mei HaShiloach and Rav Shlomo’s soul-stirring insights, we learn that the physical act of cleaning for Pesach is a "vessel" for a much greater heavenly gift: true freedom.In this episode, you’ll discover:The Gift of Freedom: Why real freedom isn't something we create, but a gift from Heaven that no one can take away.Knowing Your Root: How the "Light of the 14th" helps us recognize our unique place in God's heart.The "Two-Feet" Analogy: Why we can only truly search for our flaws (chametz) once we realize our immense potential and greatness.The Power of Connection: Insights into how our simple actions—like saying "Good Morning" to a child or straightening a Kippah—vibrate through the highest heavens.Whether you are preparing for your Seder or searching for deeper self-awareness, this teaching offers a roadmap to finding your spiritual home and the light within.

Good shabbos!#jewish learning #torah #jewishholidays #purim

Restoration isn’t about becoming someone new — it’s about returning to who you already are.In this installment of the Meshiv Nafshi series, we explore what it means to rebuild after distance, confusion, or spiritual fatigue. How do we reconnect? How do we come back without shame? And what does real teshuvah look like in daily life?A grounded, practical teaching on renewal and inner alignment.Recorded on Feb 19, 2026.

Reb Shlomo taught that every Jew carries a holy fire — even when it feels buried.This class reflects on teachings inspired by Reb Shlomo Carlebach: longing, brokenness, song, and the courage to love beyond judgment. What does it mean to see the holiness in yourself — and in others?A warm, searching exploration of Jewish spiritual resilience.Recorded on Feb 22, 2026.

There’s a kind of brokenness that opens the heart.This shiur continues exploring the teachings and spirit of Reb Shlomo Carlebach — vulnerability, prayer, and the holiness inside emotional struggle. What does it mean to be both brokenhearted and deeply alive?A reflective, soulful class on authentic avodah.Recorded on Feb 15, 2026.

What happens when tefillah stops being formal and becomes personal?This session in the Hitbodedut series goes deeper into direct conversation with Hashem — honesty, resistance, silence, and the courage to speak without scripts. We examine how personal prayer reshapes emotional life and builds real relationship.A practical and spiritual guide to living with awareness.Recorded on Feb 24, 2026.

Why is it sometimes hardest to speak when we need to most?In this installment of the Hitbodedut series, we explore the resistance that shows up in personal prayer — distraction, silence, discomfort — and how to move through it. Practical insights into building consistency and emotional honesty before Hashem.A grounded class on turning inward without escaping reality.Recorded on Feb 10, 2026.

Purim reveals what looks random is anything but.In this shiur, we unpack the inner dimension of Purim — hidden miracles, divine concealment, joy as spiritual resistance, and the power of acting even when clarity is absent. What does it mean that Hashem’s name never appears in the Megillah?A deep dive into emunah beneath the surface.Recorded on Feb 23, 2026.

Purim is not just celebration — it’s confrontation.In this session, we examine Amalek as doubt, spiritual cooling, and inner fragmentation. How do we recognize it? How do we fight it? And why is joy the weapon?A focused teaching on clarity, courage, and emunah in confusing times.Recorded on Feb 16, 2026.

What does faith look like when nothing looks miraculous?This shiur explores the spiritual message of Purim — divine orchestration beneath political chaos, personal responsibility within hiddenness, and the courage to act even when certainty is absent.A thoughtful preparation for Purim rooted in depth and clarity.Recorded on Feb 9, 2026.

What does it mean that Moshe Rabbeinu was born and passed on the same day?In this shiur, we explore the spiritual depth of 7 Adar — concealment, leadership, humility, and the hidden light that continues guiding Am Yisrael even when it seems absent. A reflection on presence within concealment, and what it means to lead without being seen.A powerful meditation on emunah, legacy, and inner strength.Follow the podcast for more Torah, depth, and inner work.

Why does the Torah follow the Ten Commandments with laws about property and damages? Rav Leibish Hundert (Rosh Yeshiva of Simchat Shlomo) reveals the inner light hidden within the "social" laws of Mishpatim.With the joy of Adar on the horizon, this shiur dives into the concept of Na'aseh V'Nishmah—the radical "Yes" we give to life before we even understand the details. Discover how the Half-Shekel of Shabbat Shekalim teaches us that our greatest strength lies in our vulnerability and our commitment to the collective.Jewish, Torah, Chassidut, Rav Leibish Hundert, Simchat Shlomo, Parshat Mishpatim, Shabbat Shekalim, Jewish Spirituality, Meshiv Nafshi.Recorded Feb 12, 2026

Why do we often only turn to prayer when we are either desperate or deeply inspired? In this soul-stirring shiur, Rav Leibish Hundert explores the concept of Tamid—the power of constancy in our relationship with Hashem.Drawing from the text Darchei HaYichud, Rav Leibish compares the practice of Hisbodedus to a "Bayis" (a home) and a marriage. Just as a home is a place you return to in every mood, and a marriage is a commitment that transcends fleeting emotions, our spiritual practice should be a constant "living spring" rather than a "failing river."Key highlights include:The Art of Constancy: Moving beyond "needing" a miracle to simply "being" at home with the Divine.Speaking To vs. Speaking About: How to transition from intellectualizing God to having a real, intimate conversation.The Pregnant Silence: Why having nothing to say in Hisbodedus is actually a sign of deep spiritual maturity and intimacy.The Legacy of Esther: Understanding how longing can be a more powerful merit than even the most perfect actions.Join Rav Leibish for a deep dive into the heart of Chassidic meditation and learn how to lower the bar for entry so that you can "enter always."Recorded Feb 3, 2026

This week, we’re diving into Page 49 of the Siman Yud, specifically looking at Rebbe Nachman’s Torah 33. We’ve all had those moments where we feel totally disconnected—maybe you're stuck in a boring business deal, grinding through a 45-minute bus ride in the heat, or even just scrolling through your phone at 3 AM feeling like you should be doing something "holier."The big takeaway from this session is that there’s no such thing as an empty space. We talk about the idea of Levushim—the "enclothings" or garments that God hides in. Whether it’s the exquisite detail of French culture or the messy physicality of our own bad habits, God is actually in the middle of it, waiting for us to notice. We discuss why we don't need to "call in sick" to our lives just to find a spiritual connection and why the "wrapper" of the physical world is actually there to help us grow, not to keep us out.Some highlights from the talk:The French Restaurant Story: What tiny portions and fancy sauces can teach us about Divine detail.The "Piranha Tank": Staying connected while swimming in the "dog-eat-dog" business world.Spiritual Confidence: Why God wants to meet you on the floor of a crowded bus, not just in a sanctuary.The iPhone Miracles: Seeing the lights and sounds of technology through a different lens.