Episodit
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the Torah portion of Ki Teitzei, focusing on its complex laws regarding marriage and divorce. He examines how these ancient texts can be interpreted to align with modern ethical standards. Brackman discusses a case where a man falsely accuses his wife of not being a virgin, leading to intricate legal and moral questions. He highlights the role of the Talmud and rabbinic interpretations in ensuring fairness, particularly for women, through the concept of "ethical corrective." This approach allows for a more equitable application of the law. The episode also delves into the debate between literal and rabbinic readings of the Torah, illustrating how interpretations can vary. Brackman emphasizes the adaptability of Jewish law and its focus on peace, inviting listeners to reflect on the balance between tradition and modernity.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today, Levi Brackman delves into the topic of false prophets as presented in two Torah portions, Re'eh and Shoftim, from Deuteronomy. He begins by exploring why the Torah addresses false prophets in two separate sections (Chapters 13 and 18) rather than consolidating them into one. Through his analysis, Levi concludes that these two sections represent different contexts that justify their separation.
Chapter 13 emphasizes that the Torah is immutable, meaning no prophet can add to or take away from it. Any prophet who attempts to introduce new laws or encourage following other gods is a false prophet, and the Torah is clear that it remains unchangeable for all time.
Chapter 18, on the other hand, warns against practices like sorcery and divination, which were common among non-Israelite nations. Instead, God communicated through a prophet from among the Israelites. This prophet would guide in areas not explicitly covered by the Torah, such as whether to go to war, and his legitimacy would be confirmed if his predictions came true.
Levi further discusses the role of a true prophet as both a spiritual leader and a guide for the nation in uncertain times. He also addresses the implications of these teachings for modern-day beliefs, particularly how they negate the possibility of new prophets altering the Torah and challenging certain Christian beliefs that involve adding to the Torah.
In conclusion, Levi ties together the lessons from both chapters, emphasizing that the Torah remains unchanged, and any prophet attempting to modify it is false. The role of the prophet, he suggests, is to guide people in following the existing Torah and offer direction in ambiguous matters, providing a sense of guidance and support in uncertain times.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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Puuttuva jakso?
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In this episode of Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman reflects on a recent debate between Candace Owens, a right-wing political commentator, and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach. The core focus of Brackman's discussion is Candace Owens' opening remarks during the debate, particularly her references to Judaism, Jewish teachings, and the nature of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson's views.
Brackman agrees with Owens' general point about the existence of radical fringe elements in most religions, including Judaism. However, he strongly criticizes her for equating Jewish religious beliefs with white supremacy. He calls her out for falsely accusing the late Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Schneerson, of harboring hatred toward non-Jews as well as her misleading lack of context and nuance surrounding his teachings, which Owens quoted indirectly through Israel Shahak, a known critic of the Orthodox Jewish community.
Brackman stresses that while specific Jewish texts may speak of Jewish exceptionalism, they are not grounded in hatred of others. He contextualizes the Jewish concept of being "chosen" or exceptional as a religious belief, not a supremacist ideology like white supremacy. He points out that Owens misrepresents the teachings of Judaism by ignoring fundamental laws that emphasize kindness to non-Jews, particularly the obligation to treat "the stranger" with respect.
Furthermore, Brackman rebuts Owens' use of Israel Shahak as a source, citing Shahak's false claims in 1965 about Orthodox Jews' refusal to help save non-Jews on the Sabbath. He demonstrates that Shahak's story is a fabrication and defends Jewish law, which mandates the saving of all lives, Jewish or non-Jewish.
Brackman finds Owens' arguments misleading and based on historical distortions. He concludes that her remarks reflect deep-rooted prejudice, not a genuine critique, and expresses disappointment that Rabbi Shmuley Boteach did not adequately challenge her statements during the debate.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabb Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Re'eh from Deuteronomy, focusing on the concept of prophets and how to distinguish between true and false prophets. He addresses the challenge of discerning genuine divine communication in a religious context, where false prophets can easily deceive people by claiming to have access to divine truth.
The Torah provides guidelines for identifying a false prophet: even if a prophet performs signs and wonders that come to pass, if they advocate worshiping other gods, they are a false prophet. Brackman explores Maimonides' views from "The Guide for the Perplexed," where he emphasizes that a true prophet must possess both courage and divination. Prophecy, according to Maimonides, involves an overflow from the active intellect (divine insight) into the imagination and intellect, allowing the prophet to foresee the future.
Maimonides also argues that a prophet's moral character, especially sexual purity, is crucial. An immoral person, particularly one with sexual impropriety, cannot be a true prophet. In "The Guide for the Perplexed" and his legal work "Mishneh Torah," Maimonides suggests that a false prophet can be identified not only by advocating actions contrary to the Torah but also by their prophecies failing to materialize.
Brackman highlights the distinction between judging a prophet at the moment they deliver a prophecy—based on their character and alignment with Torah—and assessing them over time by whether their predictions come true. He concludes by noting that while someone might not be considered a false prophet unless they explicitly invoke God's name in their prophecy, the failure of their predictions inherently labels them as false.
This episode explores the complex criteria for discerning true prophecy, blending Torah teachings with philosophical insights from Maimonides.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today", Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman dedicates the discussion to the Jewish holiday of Tu B'Av, the 15th of Av, and its connection to romantic relationships and engagements, in honor of his son Dovi's engagement. He explains that Tu B'Av is considered a joyous holiday, akin to Yom Kippur, as young women would traditionally meet their future husbands on this day, symbolizing love and partnership.
Brackman delves into the Jewish engagement and marriage process, which consists of two parts: **Erusin (betrothal)** and **Nisuin (marriage)**. In the past, these two stages occurred separately, but today, both typically happen simultaneously under the chuppah. He also describes the traditional engagement party, or "Vaart," where the families of the bride and groom commit to supporting the wedding, often through symbolic actions like the **Kenyan Suddar**, where a handkerchief is exchanged as a sign of commitment.
Brackman highlights how the ritual of the Kenyan Suddar has evolved. Originally used by families to show commitment, today the bride and groom perform this act, symbolizing their commitment to each other without the formal exchange of an engagement ring, which is given during the wedding ceremony.
The episode concludes with a blessing for Dovi and Rifkah, wishing them a happy and enduring marriage, and an invitation for listeners in New York to join in the celebration of their engagement.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the first Torah portion in the book of Deuteronomy, known as "Devarim" or "Mishneh Torah." He begins by discussing the nature of Deuteronomy, which largely consists of Moses' speeches to the Israelites before they enter the land of Israel. The focus of this episode is on the story of the spies, a well-known narrative that appears both in the book of Numbers and in Deuteronomy, but with significant differences.
Brackman highlights how the story is told differently in each book. In Numbers, the initiative to send spies is commanded by God, whereas in Deuteronomy, it appears as though the people themselves requested it from Moses, who then approved the idea. Additionally, the terminology and the identity of the spies differ between the two accounts. These discrepancies lead to questions about which version is "true" and how to reconcile the differences.
Brackman presents various interpretations from traditional commentators like Rashi and Ramban, who offer ways to harmonize the accounts, and also discusses more modern perspectives, including those of biblical critics who suggest that Deuteronomy might have been written by different authors for a different audience.
The episode underscores that the Torah's purpose is not to provide a factual historical account but to convey moral and spiritual truths. The differences in the narrative are seen as intentional, tailored to the needs of the specific audience and the message being conveyed. Brackman concludes by emphasizing that the Torah teaches us wisdom and truths for living a meaningful life, rather than merely recounting historical events. This approach helps listeners understand that the focus should be on the lessons and values the stories impart, rather than on the factual details.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Matot, focusing on chapter 32 of the Book of Numbers. The story centers around the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who request to stay on the east side of the Jordan River due to the land's suitability for their cattle, rather than crossing into Canaan with the rest of the Israelites. Moses initially interprets their request as reminiscent of the earlier generation's lack of faith, which led to the 40-year desert wandering.
Brackman draws a parallel between this story and another biblical account from Genesis 42, where Judah approaches Joseph in Egypt, demonstrating a significant character change and repentance from his earlier actions. In both narratives, the act of approaching signifies a pivotal moment of transformation and commitment.
The tribes of Reuben and Gad ultimately clarify their intentions to Moses, agreeing to help conquer Canaan before settling on the east side. This change in attitude is seen as a sign of their reformation, akin to Judah's willingness to protect Benjamin, showing that they have learned from past mistakes.
Brackman extends this lesson to contemporary times, emphasizing the importance of Jewish solidarity and support for Israel. He argues that Jews, whether living in Israel or the diaspora, have a responsibility to defend and advocate for the Jewish state. He concludes by urging listeners to consider the implications of their political choices on Israel's well-being, especially in light of upcoming elections.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Pinhas, particularly focusing on the succession of leadership from Moses to Joshua. He begins by drawing a parallel between recent events in American politics, where President Joe Biden stepped aside in favor of his Vice President Kamala Harris, and the biblical story where Moses is informed by God that he will not enter the Promised Land and must appoint Joshua as his successor.
Brackman delves into the verses from Numbers 27:12-23, where God instructs Moses to view the Promised Land from a distance and then appoint Joshua as the new leader of the Israelites. He highlights Moses' reaction, emphasizing his concern for ensuring a capable successor rather than focusing on his own legacy. This selflessness contrasts with the natural human tendency to cling to power.
Brackman points out that Moses could have directed the Israelites to his teachings and grave as guidance but instead prioritized appointing a living leader. He discusses the importance of succession planning, noting that Moses had been preparing Joshua, his devoted servant, for leadership. This choice underscores the Jewish tradition of selecting a leader based on merit and divine spirit rather than hereditary succession, which is rare in religious contexts except for kingship.
Reflecting on Biden's decision, Brackman suggests that while Biden was compelled to step aside, his act of endorsing a successor might be seen as an ego-driven move, unlike Moses, who left the decision to God. He concludes that true leadership involves preparing a suitable successor and gracefully relinquishing power when the time comes.
Throughout the podcast, Brackman emphasizes the timeless wisdom in the Torah's approach to leadership and succession, encouraging listeners to consider these lessons in the context of contemporary events.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Balak, offering an ideological perspective on its authorship and historical authenticity. Brackman begins by summarizing the story of Balak, the Moabite king, who hires the Gentile prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites. Despite his efforts, Balaam ends up blessing them, influenced by divine intervention.
Brackman then delves into the story's authorship, exploring the notion that it stands apart from other Torah narratives in style and content. He references the Talmud, specifically Bava Batra 14b, which attributes the writing of certain texts, including the story of Balaam, to Moses. This raises questions, given that Moses couldn't have witnessed these events, as they occurred outside the Israelite community.
He parallels the Book of Job, another text ascribed to Moses yet set outside the Jewish tradition. The Talmud suggests that Job might be a parable supported by Maimonides, who sees Job's story as a didactic fiction rather than a historical account.
Brackman posits that the Balaam narrative might similarly be a parable written by Moses, intended to convey truths about God's protection of the Jewish people rather than historical facts. He emphasizes that the Torah's purpose is to impart eternal truths, not necessarily empirical reality. This perspective aligns with rabbinic thought, which acknowledges the possibility of non-factual elements within the Torah, using parables to teach profound lessons.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion "Chukat," which heavily focuses on the concept of death. He explores the significance of death in the Torah, emphasizing that while life is sacred and filled with purpose, death represents the cessation of this purpose and the ultimate impurity. Brackman explains that a dead body is considered the "father of all fathers of impurity" because it no longer contributes to the world or fulfills a divine mission.
The episode delves into the purification process from the impurity caused by contact with a dead body, specifically the ritual involving the ashes of the red heifer. This process is noted for its perplexing nature, where the person performing the purification becomes impure themselves.
Brackman highlights the Torah’s intent to stress the value of life by contrasting it with death. He points out that the Torah teaches that after death, a person's body becomes an inanimate object with no value except for proper burial. This is to discourage the veneration of the dead, a common human tendency, and to emphasize the importance of the living and their ongoing mission.
He uses the deaths of Miriam and Aaron, Moses' siblings, to illustrate this point. Aaron's death, described in detail in the Torah, includes a ceremonial transfer of his high priestly garments to his son Elazar, signifying the transfer of leadership and authority to the next generation. This public transfer underscores the finality of Aaron's death and the need for new leadership.
Brackman connects this biblical lesson to contemporary issues, criticizing the reluctance of current leaders, like U.S. President Joe Biden, to relinquish power to younger generations. He argues that holding onto power too long stifles the necessary progression and adaptation of leadership for new generations.
He concludes by warning against the unhealthy veneration of past leaders, which he sees as prevalent in modern Judaism. Instead, he advocates for recognizing and learning from current, living leaders who can reinterpret the Torah to meet the needs of today's generation. This ensures the teachings remain relevant and vibrant, emphasizing the living Torah over the past teachings of deceased leaders.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Korach, focusing on the rebellion led by Korach against Moses and Aaron. Korach's challenge was based on the idea that all Israelites are holy and should be allowed to serve as priests, not just Aaron and his descendants.
Levi highlights three instances when God wanted to destroy the Israelites:
1. **The Spies' Report (last week's Torah portion, Shelach)**: The spies gave a negative report about the land of Israel, causing the Israelites to wish to return to Egypt. In despair, Moses fell on his face, pleading with God not to destroy the people, arguing it would damage God's reputation among other nations.
2. **Korach's Rebellion**: Korach and his followers' challenge led to God threatening to annihilate the Israelites again. Moses, in despair, fell on his face and argued with God that punishing everyone for the sins of a few was unjust. God relented, but many of Korach's followers were still punished.
3. **Aftermath of Korach's Rebellion**: The people blamed Moses and Aaron for the deaths caused by the rebellion, prompting God to consider wiping out the entire nation. This time, Moses, understanding the futility of further arguments, instructed Aaron to take immediate action with incense to stop the ensuing plague.
Levi explores Moses' responses to these crises, noting that Moses' falling on his face symbolizes despair rather than prayer. He reflects on Moses' role as a mediator between the irrational behavior of the Israelites and an overreactive God. Moses' arguments often centered on appealing to God's sense of justice and reputation. However, when reasoning failed, Moses resorted to direct action to mitigate God's wrath.
Levi concludes by emphasizing the complexity of these narratives and the challenges Moses faced in navigating between the expectations of the people and the reactions of God. He encourages listeners to draw their own conclusions from these thought-provoking episodes in the Torah.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman and guest Rabbi Yehudah Ber Zerkind discuss the Torah portion of Shlach, focusing on the story of the man gathering sticks on Shabbos (the Makoshesh). This story is juxtaposed with another incident from the portion of Emor in Leviticus, where a man curses God and is similarly punished by stoning. They explore why these stories appear where they do in the text and the broader implications.
Key points discussed include:
The juxtaposition of Stories: Both stories are placed amid other narratives, creating a thematic connection. For example, in Shlach, the story follows a discussion on atonement offerings and precedes the tale of the spies. In Emor, the story follows the section on the showbread arranged on Shabbos.Comparison and Context: Levi and Yehudah Ber discuss how these stories might seem out of place but suggest that their placement is intentional to draw comparisons. The juxtaposition highlights the seriousness of desecrating Shabbos and blasphemy.Lessons and Wisdom: The Torah's sequencing aims to teach that certain actions, like desecrating Shabbos or blaspheming, fundamentally damage the community's fabric and relationship with God. These acts are treated with the utmost severity, reflecting their perceived threat to societal cohesion and spiritual integrity.Enforcement of Values: The discussion parallels leading a new society, like the Israelites in the desert, and running a successful business. Strong leadership, clear values, and strict consequences for violations are necessary to maintain order and uphold the community's mission.Didactic Elements: The Torah uses these stories to provide concrete, practical examples of the consequences of defying its commandments. These narratives serve as teaching tools, emphasizing the gravity of such actions and their impact on the community.The Role of the Community: The communal aspect of punishment, especially stoning, is not just about the severity of the violations. It's a way to demonstrate collective outrage and maintain communal purity. This communal involvement underscores the importance of each individual's actions and reinforces societal norms.
In conclusion, the episode delves into the deeper meanings behind the placement and implications of these Torah stories, drawing connections to broader themes of law, order, and community integrity. The conversation underscores the Torah's role as a teaching tool, guiding individual behavior and communal values.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this special episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman marks the completion of the Talmudic tractate Bava Metzia with a Hadran, a traditional concluding reflection. He explains the significance of the Hadran prayer, which expresses the commitment to continually return to and study the Torah.
Brackman delves into key themes of Bava Metzia, primarily focusing on property rights, ownership disputes, and business ethics. He highlights a piece of Talmudic business advice that advocates diversifying investments: one-third in real estate, one-third in merchandise, and one-third in cash. This diversification ensures both security and liquidity, allowing one to seize opportunities as they arise.
The episode then explores the concept of the "evil eye" (Ayin Hara) and its implications. Brackman discusses the Talmudic notion that blessings rest only on things hidden from the eye, based on a passage from Deuteronomy. This idea suggests that publicizing one's successes or wealth can attract negative energy, while keeping them private preserves blessings.
Brackman recounts a Talmudic story where 99 out of 100 people were found to have died due to the evil eye. He interprets this as a warning against the stress and materialism that come from constantly chasing visible, measurable successes. Instead, true blessings are found in intangible aspects of life such as relationships, spirituality, and personal growth.
The episode concludes with Brackman encouraging listeners to value these immeasurable blessings over material achievements, emphasizing that a fulfilled life is built on qualities that cannot be quantified.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truth Jewish Wisdom for Today," Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Beha'alotcha from Numbers 11, highlighting the people's complaints and God's response. He examines the Israelites' grievances, including their lack of gratitude for manna and desire for meat, and contrasts this with their earlier complaints in Exodus 16, where they lacked food entirely. Brackman notes that in Numbers, the people are referred to simply as "ha'am" (the people) rather than "Adas B'nei Yisrael" (the congregation of the Children of Israel), suggesting a shift from a particularist identity to a more universal one.
Brackman argues that this universal view undermines their mission and commitment to their unique purpose as a holy nation. He references Moshe Koppel's book "Judaism Straight Up," which discusses the need to balance universal and particular perspectives. According to Brackman, losing a particularist identity leads to a lack of motivation and moral clarity, which he connects to contemporary issues of identity and moral confusion.
He concludes by emphasizing the importance of recognizing and embracing a distinct group identity to maintain moral and ethical behavior within and towards others. This recognition helps sustain a sense of purpose and commitment to the group's mission.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Rabbi Dr Levi Brackman engages in an in-depth and candid conversation with Rabbi Yehudah DovBer Zirkind, a learned scholar deeply rooted in both traditional and critical Jewish studies. The episode, lasting over two hours, explores Zirkind's unique perspective, influenced by his lineage as a direct descendant of the founder of the Chabad movement, the Alter Rebbe. Zirkind shares his personal religious journey, including his upbringing in Crown Heights, teaching experiences, and his eventual move to Israel.
During their discussion, Brackman and Zirkind delve into the complexities of religious faith, intellectual exploration, and personal spirituality. They touch on the challenges of reconciling traditional beliefs with modern critical approaches to Jewish texts. Zirkind recounts his struggles with faith and religious practices, including his period of not wearing tefillin and how he eventually reintegrated the practice into his daily life.
The conversation also highlights the impact of influential teachers like Rabbi Yoel Kahn and the personal connections that shaped Zirkind's understanding of Judaism. They discuss the importance of intellectual honesty, the evolution of religious practices, and the significance of maintaining a connection to Jewish tradition while allowing for individual interpretation and growth.
Brackman and Zirkind reflect on the trauma of losing the Rebbe and the ensuing theological and emotional challenges. They emphasize the importance of finding personal meaning in Jewish practices and traditions, even amidst doubt and questioning. The episode concludes with a shared appreciation for the depth and richness of Jewish heritage and the ongoing journey of faith and understanding.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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This episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman introduces the Book of Numbers (Bamidbar) and delves into the commandment to count the Israelites, explaining that this is the third time they have been counted. Levi explores why the numbers remained the same despite events like the sin of the Golden Calf. He mentions commentators like Or HaChaim, who suggest that the count did not include the Levites, explaining the consistency in the numbers.
Levi addresses the purpose of counting, referencing traditional views that see counting as a way to show God the preciousness of each individual. He discusses the Talmud's stance on counting, which suggests that blessings rest on things not seen or counted, and the implications of this belief. He explains that while counting can seem to limit blessings, it is necessary for practical and positive reasons, such as organizing military forces or ensuring the community's protection.
In his insightful exploration, Levi contrasts the traditional view with a more practical perspective, underlining the importance of measuring and counting to achieve goals and ensure accountability. Drawing from Jewish history and contemporary business practices, he compellingly argues that counting for positive and productive purposes is not only beneficial but also necessary for personal growth and success, inspiring listeners to set measurable goals.
Levi Brackman, in his thought-provoking conclusion, reflects on the idea that while counting should be avoided for mere prestige, it is indeed essential for achieving and measuring success. He reiterates his encouragement to listeners to set measurable goals and strive for them with the support of prayer, underscoring the importance of both spiritual and practical efforts in achieving success. This empowering message leaves the audience feeling capable and motivated to take action.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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Welcome to another episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," presented by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. In our Torah Portion Uncensored series, Rabbi Brackman delves deep into the weekly Torah readings, offering profound insights and contemporary relevance.
In this episode, Rabbi Brackman explores Parashat Bechukotai, the final portion in the book of Leviticus, or Vayikra. This parashah is both fascinating and, at times, quite disturbing due to its vivid descriptions of rewards and punishments. Listeners can expect a thorough examination of the text, beginning with the blessings that will be bestowed upon the Israelites if they follow God's laws and commandments. These blessings include timely rain, abundant crops, and peace in the land, painting a picture of a prosperous and secure life.
The episode then shifts to the severe consequences of disobedience, detailing a series of punishments such as famine, disease, and even the horrifying prospect of cannibalism. Rabbi Brackman addresses the stark contrast between the 13 verses detailing blessings and the extensive 32 verses outlining punishments, raising profound questions about divine justice and the nature of God's relationship with humanity.
Listeners will also hear a discussion on the absence of any mention of an afterlife or eternal damnation in the Torah, contrasting this with the later Jewish, Christian, and Islamic notions of heaven and hell. Rabbi Brackman highlights the Torah's focus on immediate, worldly consequences, presenting a theological perspective that prioritizes the here and now over posthumous reward or punishment.
Join Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman as he navigates these challenging texts, seeking to understand their deeper meanings and reflecting on how they inform our ethical and spiritual lives today. This episode promises a thought-provoking journey through Parashat Bechukotai, offering listeners valuable insights into the profound teachings of the Torah.
Thank you for tuning in to "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today." Please like, leave a review, and share the podcast to help others discover and benefit from these enriching discussions.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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Welcome to another episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today." In this installment of the "Torah Portion Uncensored" series, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Behar, found in Leviticus chapter 25. This chapter addresses the significant themes of Shmita (the sabbatical year) and Yovel (the Jubilee year).
The land rests every seventh year, culminating every seven cycles of seven years (49 years), with the Yovel in the 50th year. During Yovel, the land rests again, and on Shmita, significant societal resets occur: Jewish slaves are freed, and loans are forgiven. This cyclical rest serves as a framework for a healthy, equitable society, emphasizing fair treatment and economic balance.
The Torah's instructions aim to prevent the formation of permanent social classes. The prohibition against lending with interest, the periodic release of slaves, and debt forgiveness are designed to prevent the concentration of wealth and power. These practices ensure that everyone has the opportunity to start afresh and that no one is perpetually trapped in poverty or servitude.
Furthermore, the Torah mandates fair business practices, discouraging exploitation and dishonesty. It calls for accurate transactions and fair treatment of workers, including enslaved people, who must be treated with dignity and respect.
The overarching message of Behar is clear: a just society is one where everyone works hard, respects each other as equals, and where the extremes of wealth and poverty are mitigated by regular resets. By following these principles, a society can achieve lasting security and cohesion.
These timeless values of fairness, hard work, and compassion are as relevant today as they were in biblical times. They remind us of the importance of creating a society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and contribute.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the profound call to holiness found in Leviticus chapter 19, beginning with the directive, "You should be holy for I, the Lord your God, am holy." This invitation to holiness is addressed to the entire congregation of Israel, emphasizing that holiness is an expectation for all, not just a select few or religious elite.
Brackman discusses various interpretations of what it means to be holy. He mentions Ramban's perspective on "naval b'reshut haTorah," which highlights the potential to adhere to the Torah's laws while still engaging in excesses considered unbecoming or unholy, such as excessive drinking or sexual indulgence. This interpretation underlines the importance of moderation even in permitted activities, reflecting a deeper layer of holiness that goes beyond mere legal compliance.
Expanding the discussion, Brackman himself interprets holiness through the comprehensive ethical and moral framework laid out in Leviticus chapters 19 and 20. He draws connections between the preamble in chapter 19 and the conclusion in chapter 20, both of which emphasize holiness, to argue that true holiness encompasses a wide range of behaviors. These include integrity in business, compassion towards the poor and strangers, and maintaining justice, all of which are detailed in these chapters.
By aligning his interpretation with the broad and inclusive directives of these chapters, Brackman encourages listeners to view holiness as a holistic morality that pervades every aspect of life. This includes how one treats others, conducts business, and engages in personal practices, urging a reflection on the essence of being truly holy as mirrored by the divine.
This episode challenges listeners to not only follow the laws but to embody a spirit of holiness that influences all actions and interactions, advocating for a life of ethical consistency and spiritual integrity that reflects the holiness of God.Support the show
Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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In this episode of Truths Jewish Wisdom host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into an often-cited yet deeply contested portion of the Torah: Leviticus chapter 18, the chapter that lays down the foundations of forbidden marriages, famously known for its controversial stance on incestuous relationships and homosexuality.
This particular chapter has profoundly influenced Western society, serving as the bedrock of Judeo-Christian values. However, its principles have been heavily debated, especially in recent decades, raising important questions about sexual morality and cultural norms. Despite the contention, it's critical to understand the context in which these laws were introduced to the Israelites and how they have been challenged over time.
Leviticus chapter 18 begins with a clear directive from God to Moses, emphasizing His authority with the repeated phrase, "I am the Lord your God." The preamble sets the stage for the detailed prohibitions to follow, instructing the Israelites to refrain from adopting the customs of the Egyptians and Canaanites, cultures known for their permissive attitudes toward incest and other sexual behaviors.
Levi argues that in a time where incestuous relationships and homosexual behavior were common, the Israelites found it challenging to abandon their practices and adhere to these new moral laws. God's authority was necessary to persuade them, emphasizing that these rules were not arbitrary but divinely ordained for their well-being. Levi suggests that the guiding principle, "v'chai b'hem" (and you should live by them), implies that adhering to these statutes would lead to a sustainable, healthy society, which stands in contrast to the destructive behaviors of the surrounding cultures.
The episode argues that the Torah emphasizes the importance of boundaries, distinguishing between appropriate and inappropriate relationships., a clarity is crucial for fostering a sustainable society, where strong family structures and defined property rights underpin prosperity and order. The postmodern world often blurs these boundaries, leading to confusion around sexual identities and property rights. Recent protests on university campuses, where private property has been disregarded, reflect this erosion of boundaries and highlight the contemporary relevance of these ancient teachings.
The narrative of Leviticus chapter 18 offers a moral framework for understanding the importance of maintaining clear distinctions in society. While these laws initially relied on divine authority, we now have centuries of lived experience showing that Marxism and Communism fails while democracy and capitalism sustains, and that reinforces this wisdom. Our historical perspective shows that respecting these boundaries fosters sustainable communities, and disregarding them leads to social disarray.
In this episode, we examine how this ancient text still holds contemporary relevance, urging us to challenge the postmodern ideologies that blur these vital boundaries.
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
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