SoulWords- Full Library

Counting reveals the paradox that in holiness, quantity itself leads to quality. Even in a spiritual wilderness, we are meant to live a fully holy life—especially in the home and in the earliest stages of a child’s education. True Jewish unity means uniting around Torah and mitzvos. Ahavas Yisrael is described on three levels—by the Baal Shem Tov, the Maggid, and the Alter Rebbe—each revealing a deeper way to love another Jew. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bechukosai in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2. 📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/9387f91... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ov0v... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 2 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinf..

The month of Iyar is uniquely defined by the mitzvah of counting the Omer, which creates a state of total alignment where every day becomes equally holy. Spiritual growth moves through three phases—initial rescue from above (Nissan), active refinement of the animal soul’s passions (Iyar), and ultimate integration with the Divine (Sivan). The halachic nature of counting Sefira reveals that even if our current efforts feel limited, they possess the unique power to build the reality of the future redemption. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Emor in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1. 📄 PDF of Sicha: https://heyzine.com/flip-book/538877d... 📄 PDF of Sicha in English by SIE: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eMXb... 📖 Buy Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1 at Kehot: https://store.kehotonline.com/mobile/...

In this famous letter to Israeli President Yitzchak Ben-Tzvi, the Rebbe explains that wealth and influence are divinely entrusted responsibilities, obligating one to actively strengthen Torah and Jewish identity. Beyond this, the letter offers a rare personal glimpse, as the Rebbe shares his lifelong vision of redemption and explains why he avoids the title “president,” reflecting his deep, authentic sensitivity to the pain of the Jewish people in exile. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-30.pdf

The Rebbe acknowledges the writer’s improved health but challenges his confusion about priorities. Despite clear guidance, he is misreading his situation and considering reducing his involvement in Chabad. The Rebbe insists his true purpose is to focus on spiritual work in his current place, not pursue distracting alternatives for livelihood. Parnassah will follow with less struggle, while avoiding this path only adds unnecessary complications and concealment. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-29.pdf

In the first letter, the Rebbe responds to someone overwhelmed by a new position, claiming he has no time for learning, serving Hashem, or helping others. The Rebbe firmly rejects this, reminding him that a Jew’s purpose is to serve his Creator. In the second letter, the Rebbe discourages the letter writer's practice of fasting, explaining that Chassidus does not promote afflicting the body. True avodah is refining the animal soul—through restraint in behavior, speech, and interpersonal conduct—without harming one’s health, thereby preserving strength for Torah and mitzvos. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-27-28.pdf

Addressing the letter writer's concerns about balancing outreach with his own son’s education, the Rebbe emphasizes that fulfilling the mitzvah of influencing others will not harm his child’s chinuch—on the contrary, it will enhance it through the principle of mitzvah goreres mitzvah. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-26.pdf

Pesach is supposed to be a time of freedom—but for many parents raising sensitive or easily overwhelmed children, it can feel like anything but. In this webinar, Rabbi Shais Taub and Dr. Ilyssa Bass address the real challenges of preparing for Pesach with a “complex child”—kids who feel things more intensely, struggle with transitions, and can become overwhelmed by the demands of Yom Tov. No unrealistic expectations. No “perfect child” fantasy. Just practical clarity for a calmer, more manageable Pesach. Rabbi Shais Taub is the creator of Soul Parenting and has guided thousands of parents with a Torah-based approach to raising children. Dr. Ilyssa Bass is a psychologist and leading expert helping Jewish families parent children with complex needs. To register for our upcoming course: https://www.drilyssabass.com/joy

The Rebbe responds regarding a Chabad-affiliated agricultural school, emphasizing that its standards and spirit must fully align with Chabad values without compromise. The institution should not lower its standards for students who do not adhere to them. However, guidance should be given pleasantly—educating and inspiring rather than rejecting. The focus should be on promoting the positive through Chassidic farbrengens, stories, and niggunim, while maintaining appropriate safeguards. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-25.pdf

One must recognize that involvement in the Rebbe’s work is a personal merit, not a favor being done. As long as one feels otherwise, no persuasion will help. Honest reflection and humility will lead to clarity, cooperation, and a more peaceful, productive path. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-24.pdf

In response to a letter proposing that identifying certain nations as lost tribes could hasten Moshiach, the Rebbe emphasizes that our direction must come from Torah and its clear guidance. Rather than pursuing speculative approaches, our focus should be on what Chazal teach—that redemption depends on teshuvah and good deeds. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-23.pdf

The Rebbe writes to Rabbi Yitzchak Isaac Small, acknowledging his longstanding connection to Chabad and asking him to support relief efforts for Sephardic Jews in crisis. Beyond the immediate need, the Rebbe emphasizes a broader principle: in matters of ahavas Yisrael, there is no concern for competition—on the contrary, one should welcome and encourage others to join and even expand the work. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-22.pdf

The first letter addresses a man overwhelmed by overthinking. The Rebbe urges him to stop analyzing his inner state and instead live simply: care for the body, act with sincerity, and begin without overplanning. The second letter teaches that how we look at others shapes them—seeing with a generous eye draws out their best and brings true nachas. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-20-and-21.pdf

A young man asks if he should follow his own preference as to where to study and is gently but firmly redirected: a yeshiva bachur is not guided by personal will, but by the guidance of his teachers. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-19.pdf

In this letter, the Rebbe thanks the noted Hebrew author Eliezer Steinman for writing about Chabad Chassidus—but then adds a deeper point. To write about something truthfully, it’s not enough to understand it intellectually. You have to live it. Only when an idea becomes part of your own experience can you express it in a way that resonates most effectively with others. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-18.pdf

The Rebbe responds to a report of someone feeling spiritually discouraged. He explains that a feeling of brokenness can sometimes be constructive—like a seed that must first decay in the ground before it can grow—but only if it leads to renewed effort and increased action in Yiddishkeit. If, however, it weakens a person’s resolve and diminishes their activity, it is not healthy bitterness but harmful sadness. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-17.pdf

A man writes that he has “never seen good in his life.” The Rebbe sharply challenges this claim: a person blessed with a spouse and children walking in the path of Torah cannot call himself deprived. Ingratitude blinds one to visible blessings—and may itself block further blessing in health and livelihood. Gratitude and joy reopen the channel. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-16.pdf

In a powerful letter to an educator discouraged by what he perceived as a lack of success in influencing his students, the Rebbe explains why despair is more dangerous than being overly satisfied. Influence, especially on youth, is never wasted—even if the results only become visible years later. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-15.pdf

The first letter of the evening, to a yeshiva bachur, explains how acceptance of Hashem’s yoke begins with disciplined adherence to the yeshiva’s daily schedule, without exceptions—even for seemingly holy reasons. Consistent structure, he explains, gradually cultivates genuine inner submission and spiritual growth. In tonight's second letter, the Rebbe addresses the letter writer’s discouragement about finding a match, insisting both the possibility and the path exist—and urging him not to delay pursuing a shidduch through proper intermediaries. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-13-14.pdf

When a person feels a strong urge to help the public, how can he know if the motive is truly pure? The Rebbe explains why overanalyzing intentions can actually block good action—and offers a practical test for recognizing when a thought comes from a healthy source. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-12.pdf

The Rebbe firmly redirects a writer who had become interested in mystical “segulos,” urging him to abandon such paths and return to a far more reliable source of wisdom. In the same letter, he also challenges the writer’s assumption that he lacks the ability to make a meaningful difference in helping others. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-11.pdf

When people unexpectedly come into one’s life, it may reflect a deeper spiritual purpose. Just as physical food contains a divine spark that nourishes the soul, encounters between people can be opportunities to help another Jew strengthen their connection to Yiddishkeit. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-10.pdf

The brothers reflect on the structure of Jewish mourning, the experience of saying Kaddish three times a day, and some of the strange, funny, and sometimes questionable moments that happen during Shiva. Along the way they explore the psychological wisdom built into the halachos of Aveilus, the strange transitional period of Aninus, and why communal prayer can become an unexpected tool for processing grief. They also share stories—from cryptozoology museums to Shiva pranks—and reflect on how humor and structure help people navigate difficult moments in life.

The challenges facing Jewish youth have not disappeared—they have simply changed their disguise. The Rebbe warns that modern spiritual tests can be even more dangerous precisely because they appear clothed in the language of holiness. Looking back at earlier generations, he explains why Torah study alone was not enough, why even mussar proved insufficient, and why the inner fire of Chassidus became the force that enabled young people to withstand the storm. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-09.pdf

A student writes in despair, convinced his spiritual struggles prove failure. The Rebbe rejects this conclusion entirely. Inner turmoil is not proof of weakness—it can be the very fuel for powerful spiritual awakening. The key, he explains, is to stop endless self-analysis and redirect energy into action: helping others grow in Torah and mitzvos, maintaining the discipline of yeshiva life, and becoming a living example for one’s peers. Through this, the confusion itself becomes a catalyst for growth. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-08.pdf

In the first letter of this class, the Rebbe acknowledges news about the beginning of Tomchei Temimim activities and blesses their success in spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus. He objects to delaying sharing Chabad teachings with someone until after leaving the hospital, explaining that both healing and Torah study should not be postponed. In the second letter, the Rebbe responds to a student who feels he has not changed after a year of study. The Rebbe explains that a person cannot judge himself objectively and attributes such discouragement to the yetzer hara. He insists real change must have occurred and advises practical steps to deepen spiritual growth. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-06-07.pdf

The Rebbe responds to a teacher who feels less motivated to teach a weaker class than the previous year’s students. The Rebbe explains that the opposite should be true: students with fewer abilities should inspire greater dedication, since a person’s purpose is to elevate their unique portion of the world using the talents Hashem gave them. Educating such students fulfills this mission and brings special reward. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-days-30-letters-5.pdf

The Rebbe urges a father to dedicate real time and energy to influencing his family with warmth and closeness, stressing that this is a matter of holiness and the continuity of the Jewish people. Time devoted to one’s family is not a loss, but a sanctification of time itself, bringing further blessing and holiness. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-4.pdf

The letter responds to someone who says he lacks time and focus for spiritual matters and imagines things would improve if circumstances were different. The reply challenges this, noting that if one can concentrate on intellectual matters, one can do so for the Divine soul as well. Each person is placed in a specific time and situation with the strengths needed to fulfill their mission; speculating about alternative scenarios only weakens present responsibility. Instead, one must choose action in the current reality, especially as one connected to Chassidus is empowered to do so.

The letter praises the recipient’s efforts but says they are far below what is truly possible—especially in Eretz Yisrael today. It points out that even secular leftist movements succeed because they act with passion, discipline, unity, sacrifice for the collective, and obedience to leadership—qualities Chassidus demands for holy work—while Chassidim often fail to fully harness the blessing available to them due to complacency or division. PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-2.pdf

The Rebbe urges that in communal matters—especially chinuch—one must not rely on personal opinion or local entanglements, but listen to objective guidance from above. Just as people seek expert counsel in private affairs, how much more so must they heed the Rebbe’s direction in matters affecting the many. The Igros Kodesh are the published volumes of the Rebbe’s correspondence with people from every background and stage of life—addressing subjects ranging from profound scholarly matters to everyday concerns of health, family, finances, and emotional struggle—through which we gain a rare glimpse into how the Rebbe approached life itself, and from which we learn how to look at our own lives through that lens. For the thirty days leading up to 11 Nissan, the Rebbe’s birthday, join us each night for a live class with Rabbi Shais Taub exploring another letter from Igros Kodesh. In honor of the 2nd birthday of Yehuda Meir ben Bracha Pesha and the yarhzeit of Yehuda’s great grandmother, also on 11 Adar, Chavole bas Zev Velvel PDF Link: https://www.soulwords.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/30-letters-30-days-1-1.pdf

Join of a 22 Shvat farbrengen in honor of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, livestreamed from the SoulWords House with Rabbi Shais Taub and special guest Rabbi Manis Friedman.

In this powerful lecture marking the shloshim (30-day memorial) of his mother, Rivkah bas Avraham obm, Rabbi Shais Taub weaves personal memory with Torah insight in a way that is both intimate and intellectually arresting. Drawing on his mother’s life as a speech pathologist, he explores what it truly means that the human being is […]

Rabbi Shais Taub sits down with Rabbi Yossi Pels, Executive Director of Chayenu, for a powerful and eye-opening conversation about the weekly Torah booklet that has revolutionized daily Torah study for tens of thousands of Jews around the world. In this inspiring episode, they delve into: The founding story of ChayenuIts global reach and explosive growthThe life-changing power of consistent daily Torah study — especially Chitas and RambamReal-life stories from across the world showing how Chayenu brings structure, inspiration, and connection to Jews everywhere Whether you’re a longtime Chayenu learner or discovering it for the first time, this episode will deepen your appreciation for the mission and meaning behind this extraordinary initiative. For a limited time, Chayenu is offering its largest discount ever — 50% OFF — generously subsidized by Chaya Mushka bas Esther, in honor of her birthday on 13 Kislev. This special offer brings the regular $220 annual print + digital subscription down to just $110, with free U.S. and international shipping. The sale’s final 48 hours fall on Yud-Tes and Chof Kislev (December 9-10), an especially auspicious time to begin, and to encourage others to begin, the new Tanya and Hayom Yom cycles. Take this opportunity to subscribe today, and share this offer with a friend: Chayenu Sale: 50% OFF 1-Year SubscriptionUse promo code: 13KISLEV at https://chayenu.org/subscribeLimited time offer: Dec. 3-10, 2025 Offer valid only for new annual Chayenu subscriptions (not Chayenu3) and cannot be combined with other discounts. Spread the word: Become a Chayenu Ambassador! Join the WhatsApp group at https://chayenu.org/ambassadors and help inspire more Jews to learn Chitas, Rambam, and Daily Torah Studies with Chayenu. Inside the group you’ll get inspiration, short videos, images, prize giveaways, and more – all ready to share to help you spread the word. You can also access ready-to-use promotional images for social media and email at https://chayenu.org/share. You can print an 8.5″×11″ poster in Color or Black & White and share at your Yud-Tes Kislev farbrengen. Post it in your shul, school, office, or simply hand one to a friend.

Rabbi Shais Taub sits down with Dr. Stephen Shaya, a Chaldean physician, visionary, and philanthropist from Detroit. Dr. Shaya shares his remarkable story, from his family's ancient roots in Iraq's Mesopotamian heritage, to his global work in healthcare innovation and humanitarian outreach, and his first visit to the Rebbe's Ohel that deeply moved him. Together, Rabbi Taub and Dr. Shaya explore the intersection of faith, science, and purpose - discussing how the Rebbe's teachings inspire people of all backgrounds to bring light, compassion, and healing into the world.

12 Pesukim for Parents is a new series in honor of the 50th anniversary of the Twelve Pesukim. In this first class, we explore the opening verse—Torah Tziva Lanu Moshe—and the Rebbe’s vision behind teaching these verses to children. This class helps parents understand what Torah Tziva truly means: conveying to our children the preciousness […]

Rabbi Shais Taub is joined by Yitzchok Aharon Pinkesz, author of Kosher Astrology: A Jewish Guide to Celestial Wisdom to explore one of the most misunderstood topics in Jewish thought. Together, they discuss what astrology really means through the lens of Torah and how to distinguish kosher astrology from forbidden practices, and what role the stars and constellations play in shaping our spiritual path. You’ll even hear Rabbi Taub’s own astrological chart.

In Part 3 of "High Holidays & the 12 Steps," we explore the themes of joy and interconnectedness as embodied in Sukkos and Simchas Torah. Discover why these are considered the "highest holidays," representing the culmination of Rosh Hashanah's surrender and Yom Kippur's atonement, and how they relate to practicing spiritual principles in all aspects of life.

In honor of Vov Tishrei, the yahrzeit of the Rebbe's mother, Rebbetzin Chana, this class delves into a profound teaching from Likkutei Sichos (Vol. 19, pp. 291-297). The Rebbe revolutionizes our understanding of prayer, drawing lessons from the prophetess Chana's example to reveal how asking for our needs can be the ultimate expression of our […]

Part 2 of "High Holidays & the 12 Steps" looks at Yom Kippur and the mechanics of "at-one-ment." Getting rid of our character defects isn't just about cleaning house; it first requires a fundamental surrender to a Higher Power.

Part 1 of High Holidays & the 12 Steps: spiritual prep for the Jewish New Year through the lens of recovery. In this Rosh Hashanah class, we explore surrender, vision, and beginning again—translating core 12-step ideas into practical avodah for the Days of Awe. Part 2: Yom Kippur. Part 3: Sukkos.

This special presentation on the Rebbe's father, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, focuses on his teachings and the self-sacrifice to preserve his writings. Donate to Keren Levi Yitzchak: magbis.org/keren-levi-yitzchak

An honest and compassionate discussion on the subject of shidduchim, led by Rabbi Shais Taub along with Tziporo Grodko of Stories of Hope. Recorded at a special Tu B'Av event at the Soul Words House, this video features a deep dive into tough questions submitted by the online community and live Q&A from the in-person audience. Partner with SoulWords by contributing at https://charidy.com/rst and help bring powerful, life-changing wisdom to countless others. Your support makes a big impact in funding the creation of inspiring projects that uplift and transform lives.

Rabbi Shais Taub updates students of his popular Shaar Habitachon series, which was recorded five years ago, sharing how the principle of Bitachon has played a crucial role in the continued growth of SoulWords. The video serves as a heartfelt call to everyone who studied Shaar Habitachon with him, inviting them to partner with SoulWords by contributing to https://charidy.com/rst to help spread life-changing wisdom with others.

NYC Mayor Eric Adams sits down with Rabbi Shais Taub for a surprisingly personal and wide-ranging conversation. He shares his own struggle with dyslexia, the overlooked power of neurodivergence, and his thoughts on what’s really broken in our political system. From meditation and conscious breathing to the spiritual roots of leadership and even the mind-bending concept of remote viewing, this conversation goes places few political interviews ever do. 👉 Partner with SoulWords to support more content like this: https://charidy.com/rst Thank you to our sponsors:⚡️ Electric & BeyondFrom wiring small fixtures to tackling large commercial projects or installing backup generators, they deliver unmatched quality. For all your electrical needs, contact Electric & Beyond at 718-4BEYOND—that’s 718-423-9663. 📱 Integration HDTheir innovative systems let you control lighting, audio, video, HVAC, security, and more with just a tap. Transform your home into a smart haven with Integration HD. Reach them at 516-612-0677 to explore the possibilities.

Join a farbrengen live from the SoulWords House, in honor of 12-13 Tammuz, the Liberation of the Previous Rebbe. Rabbi Shais Taub tells the amazing true-life story of the Previous Rebbe's arrest and liberation while Eli Marcus shares chasidic melodies to commemorate and relive this auspicious day.

The Rebbe's Maamar "Vayishlach Yehoshua" was first delivered on 28 Sivan, the anniversary of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin's arrival in the USA. The discourse examines the Biblical stories of the spies sent by Moshe and later by Yehoshua and presents them as two models of personal development. Be a part of our ongoing campaign: Charidy.com/RST

In honor of Lag b'Omer, study actual excerpts of the text of Zohar as illuminated by the teachings of the Rebbe. A livestream event from the SoulWords House.

The thirtieth class of the "30 Letters in 30 Days" series, held live for women at the SoulWords House on 11 Nissan, focuses on a letter the Rebbe wrote on his birthday, 11 Nissan 5711, to a woman about the topic of faith as a key to emotional wellbeing.

In a letter to secular Isareli politician, Dr. Bentzion Dinur, the Rebbe explains that there can be no freedom of the body without freedom of the soul.

The Rebbe commends famed author, Eliezer Steinman, for his significant role in spreading Chassidus to communities that otherwise might not have encountered it. The Rebbe asks Steinman to contemplate what merit he could have had in the past that led him to have the further merit of spreading chasidus to so many.