fear Archives - The Meaningful Life Center

A Blast in Three Dimensions

The meaning of the shofar blasts: the sounding of the shofar is more than a commandment—it is also a vehicle for repentence.

The Universal Message of Rosh Hashanah

Transcripts/Sources • 0 Comments

The universal message of Rosh Hashanah is that we all need to hear the sounds of our own souls. Read this conversation with Rabbi Simon Jacobson.

A Trembling World Waiting To Be Reborn

Weekly Op-Ed •September 18th, 2014• 5 Comments

Remember the lesson of Rosh Hashana’s renewal: never to give up hope, never to resign yourself, no matter how difficult the challenge, you were given all the strengths to face any situation and come out stronger.

Sukkot: The Power of Joy Amidst Uncertainty

October 4th, 2001•

Sometimes joy seems impossible but true happiness is a commitment to good which can overpower the greatest darkness.

Bereishis: Renewal, Not Just Survival

October 11th, 2001•

The concept of perpetual creation: Existence has no validity on its own and must be renewed each moment.

Chaya Sarah: Ishmael – How Does it End ?

November 8th, 2001•

The story of Ishmael son of Abraham – a story of aggression and banishment, but also a story that concludes with hope and redemption.

Toldot: The Plot Thickens – Jacob & Esau: Two Nations

November 15th, 2001•

How do you reconcile and integrate body and soul, matter and spirit – G-d and the universe? The answer is to infuse matter with spirit.

Mikeitz: Joseph's Treasure – The Refinement Process Begins

December 13th, 2001•

Joseph’s leadership sets the tone and gives direction for the work to come in refining the wealth of sparks in the world today, empowering this generation.

Vayigash: Joseph & Marx – Work & Alienation

December 20th, 2001•

Joseph possessed the unique power to integrate spirit and matter in an imperfect world where materialism dominates. Let us learn how this can be achieved.

Vayechi: End of Book One – Jacob Never Dies

December 27th, 2001•

Jacob and Joseph always remind us that we can overcome any challenge. When we hold onto our faith in G-d and His promises, then we will always prevail.

Shmos: Entering the Real World

January 3rd, 2002•

As the Book of Exodus begins, the Jewish plight transforms from local to global. Slavery teaches the nation of suffering and redemption.

Bo: Water, Egypt & September 11

January 17th, 2002•

An exploration of the Kabbalistic meaning of water and Moses’ connection to it. Today, do we feel safest on land or in water?

Yitro: Skyscraper – Where Heaven Meets Earth

January 31st, 2002•

At Mt. Sinai, the physical and spiritual worlds merged. The NYC skyline shows a man-made version of this, yet reminds us of the fragility of man’s work.

Mishpatim: Is Logic Logical? Our Changing World

February 7th, 2002•

A look at logic and superalogic in our world and why we feel connected to each.

Terumah: The Seventh Generation from Abraham to Moses

February 14th, 2002•

Moses, the seventh generation after Abraham, teaches us how to transform the world around us into a home for G-d.

Veyakhel: Chaos & Redemption

March 7th, 2002•

Parshat Veyakhel reveals the third step that empowers one to face any challenge- Exodus from oppression, Torah at Sinai, and building a Mishkan.

Vayikra: Where Are Our Leaders?

March 14th, 2002•

A lack of true leadership in present times may in fact be a call for all citizens of the world to discover the leader within themselves.

Tazriah-Metzorah: Interesting Paradoxes

April 11th, 2002•

The dichotomy between good and evil as well as truth and lies are discussed in the context of current world events and prevailing points of view.

Emor: Radiant Caution – On War & Love

April 25th, 2002•

The concept of loving discipline is examined in contrast to a discipline born out of fear and guilt, which is ultimately ineffective.

Behar-Bechukotai: The Ultimate Peace Plan

May 2nd, 2002•

Peace and security are guaranteed if we heed the word of G-d, but when we lose sight of our Divine calling, the world fall into despair and anxiety.

Shavuot: Esau, Ishmael, & Sinai

May 16th, 2002•

G-d approached the nations of the world thousands of years ago and offered them the Torah before being accepted by the Israelites. What are the modern implications of this?

Bahalotcha: The Journey

May 30th, 2002•

The Bible is filled with journeys, the greatest of which isn’t even completed in the 5 books; in this case the destination is created through the journey.

Matot-Masei: Three Weeks of Pain, Seven of Comfort, & Two of Return

July 4th, 2002•

Parshat Matot-Masei: 3 Weeks of Pain, 7 of Comfort & 2 of Return. Understanding the 3 Weeks of mourning in a chassidic discourse by Reb Hillel of Paritch.

Eikev-Nachamu: From Lebanon to Jerusalem – Diary

July 25th, 2002•

As he travels around Israel Rabbi Jacobson rediscovers all the historic sites that the world has tried to bulldoze over.

Ki-Teitzei: The Seven Weeks of Comfort

August 15th, 2002•

Following the three weeks of mourning for the destruction of the Holy Temple, there is a seven week period of comfort which allows us to heal and renew our connection to G-d.

Rosh Hashanah: New Year 5763

September 5th, 2002•

Though the situation may seem grim we have the ability to transform it into a renewal of strength by seeing this for what it really is, a new world.

Sukkot: Has Anyone Found my Chicken on S. Monica Blvd?

September 19th, 2002•

On Sukkot we celebrate the unique opportunity that Yom Kippur offers us; to reconnect with your soul and G-d despite any previous transgressions.

Bereishit: Passion & Complacency

September 30th, 2002•

Let us set the world on fire, the fire of spiritual passion that transforms. Together let us create a true revolution: Passion with poise.

Noach: The Birth of Nations

October 10th, 2002•

Armed with the retrospective wisdom derived from the lessons of history – we must ask ourselves: Have we learned something? Are we listening?

Lech-Lecha: A Man of Certainty in Uncertain Times

October 17th, 2002•

Abraham discovered the only certainty in life: The absolute commitment to your Divine calling, the mission for which you have been uniquely chosen.

Vayera: G-d Said to Abraham: Kill Me a Son

October 24th, 2002•

Let us learn from Abraham and Isaac. When your love is infused with dedication to that which is beyond you, to the eternal – then you and your family too become eternal.

Chayei Sarah: Eulogy

October 31st, 2002•

The Arizal teaches us that each of us is allocated a certain number of Divine sparks that we are meant to elevate in our life journey.

Vayishlach: Are We Victims?

November 21st, 2002•

Prayer is the foundation –Faith then dictates and infuses you with the fortitude to do whatever it takes, everything humanly possible to ensure victory.

Shmot: The Art of Communication

December 26th, 2002•

In Parshat Shmot, Moses becomes the channel through which G/d speaks to Pharaoh and to His people, revealing the secret to communication.

Vaeirah: Kabbalah of Kabbalah

January 2nd, 2003•

Kabbalah reveals the secrets of the soul and a level of spirituality that brings vitality to day-to-day religious practices.

Beshalach: On Faith & Trust

January 16th, 2003•

In Parshat Beshalach, the Jewish People reveal their belief in G-d and Moses after hundreds of years in bondage that bolstered their faith and trust.

Yitro: On the Nature of Leadership & the Art of Delegation

January 23rd, 2003• 0 Comments

A look at the infrastructure within Chabad shlichus and its similarity to the delegation advice from Yitro to Moses in Parshat Yitro.

Mishpatim: Leadership with Love

January 30th, 2003•

A response to further questions about the infrastructure of shlichus dealing with leadership versus unity in this system.

Terumah: Yet Again

Weekly Op-Ed •February 6th, 2003• 0 Comments

The world’s infrastructure is built on selfishness and leading to tragedy after tragedy. Instead, we must usher in a new era of spirituality and unity.

Tetzaveh: Open Your Eyes

Weekly Op-Ed •February 13th, 2003• 0 Comments

A personal story about a blind woman who rediscovered her Judaism and the great miracle that occurred afterwards.

Ki Tisa: Just a Friendly Reminder

Weekly Op-Ed •February 20th, 2003• 0 Comments

A poem about snowfall demonstrating our vulnerability, but also strength, while heading towards an uncertain future.

Sh'lach: The Birth of Projection

June 6th, 2002•

In Parshat Shelach the scouts projected their feelings. We learn that through life’s challenges the question is not whether we can do it, but how we can.

Veyakhel: Jerusalem in White

Weekly Op-Ed •February 27th, 2003• 2 Comments

A poem about a great snowfall in the Holy City of Jerusalem and the transformation that happened among its people and sites.

Two Faces of Esau

Weekly Op-Ed •March 6th, 2003• 1 Comment

The story of Esau’s wedding leads to a two-faced world where some people struggle with G-d and justice while others demonstrate great pride in their faith.

Purim: Connect the Dots

Weekly Op-Ed •March 13th, 2003• 0 Comments

Parallels are drawn between the Purim of 2360 years ago and the Purims of the modern Persian Gulf Wars, and the ultimate significance of the Persian region is examined.

Purim 2: Shushan War

Weekly Op-Ed •March 20th, 2003• 2 Comments

Part two of the previous week’s article, “Purim: Connect the Dots,” continues to explore the significance of current conflict in light of historical events.

Shemini: By the Rivers of Babylon

Weekly Op-Ed •March 27th, 2003• 0 Comments

The current state of the world, as examined through the lens of Babylon, can trace its roots to a fundamental religious and ideological conflict of ancient days.

Tazriah: The River Euphrates

Weekly Op-Ed •April 3rd, 2003• 0 Comments

The Euphrates River has seen the rise and fall of man many times over, and plays a significant role in the ultimate redemption.

Metzorah: In Search of Eden

Weekly Op-Ed •April 10th, 2003• 0 Comments

The continued presence of both the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, and particularly the Euphrates, indicates the ongoing presence of the Garden of Eden in this world.

Kedoshim: West of Eden

Weekly Op-Ed •May 1st, 2003• 0 Comments

The present issues in the world are sourced in longstanding religious and metaphysical conflicts which revolve around the physical and figurative Babylon.

Emor: How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 1

Questions & Answers •Weekly Op-Ed •May 8th, 2003• 0 Comments

Rabbi Simon Jacobson answers a critical question: how does one find an authentic, truthful educator when it comes to Torah learning?

Behar: How Do I Find a True Rabbi? Part 2

Questions & Answers •Weekly Op-Ed •May 14th, 2003• 1 Comment

In part two of the answer to how one finds an authentic educator, Rabbi Simon Jacobson tells a personal story and discusses the shortcomings of modern education.

Bamidbar: Whatever

Weekly Op-Ed •May 29th, 2003• 0 Comments

Insecurities are reflected in the use of noncommittal expressions and speaking without conviction can create new insecurities.

Nasso: Jerusalem Under Siege

Weekly Op-Ed •June 12th, 2003• 0 Comments

What if we’re to find out the Middle East is indeed in the midst of religious war; one that is threatening the entire world? That this really is about G-d?

Korach: Atzilut Unplugged

Weekly Op-Ed •July 3rd, 2003• 6 Comments

In Parshat Korach we learn that Atzilut never can be unplugged. Our challenge is to recognize & acknowledge the connection and then reveal it & act on it.

Lech Lecha: Are You a Conformist?

Weekly Op-Ed •November 6th, 2003• 0 Comments

Only when one leaves their comfort zone are they able to discover who they truly are.

Vayera: Religious Selfishness

Weekly Op-Ed •November 13th, 2003• 3 Comments

Abraham gave us the power to challenge G-d, asking Him to shift destiny. This we must when it comes to standing next to fellow Jews in defiance against G-d.

The Sound of Light: Tension & Resolution

Weekly Op-Ed • 0 Comments

The secret of balance is about discovering the rhythm that lies within the different forces in our lives. Life is about cadence.

The Fiasco

Weekly Op-Ed • 2 Comments

Anything man can plan G-d can plan better…

Vayetze: Rhythm

Weekly Op-Ed •December 4th, 2003• 0 Comments

The soul’s restlessness is our healthiest response to a world that just doesn’t seem right. Don’t fight your restlessness; learn how to dance the dance.

Vayeishev: Kislev 19 in Babylon

Weekly Op-Ed •December 18th, 2003• 0 Comments

History is a continuum. Peace in our lifetime will only be possible if we make peace with the rifts of our past, acclimating the world to our own souls.

Kislev 19 in Babylon

December 25th, 2003• 1 Comment

The power of Yud-Tes Kislev: two events on the same day 205 years apart – the Alter Rebbe’s release from prison & Saddam Hussein’s capture. The connection?

Mikeitz: Light of Sound

Weekly Op-Ed •December 25th, 2003• 1 Comment

The flames of the Chanukah menorah tell a story of yearning and returning, of tension and resolution. We yearn to realign ourselves to our inner rhythm.

Vayechi: Do our Shadows have Substance?

Weekly Op-Ed •January 9th, 2004• 0 Comments

Embracing the duality of life in both its light and dark dimensions may not lead to nirvana, but will allow one to peacefully navigate the dynamic waters.

Vayechi: The Sound of Darkness II

Weekly Op-Ed •January 9th, 2004• 0 Comments

Does darkness have substance, or is it just the absence of light? Rather than trying to fight the darkness pushing us down, we should find inner peace.

Shmot: Jerusalem Diary I

Weekly Op-Ed •January 15th, 2004• 0 Comments

A detailed account of a trip to Israel (part I) with all of the emotions the Holy Land inspires.

Vaeirah: Jerusalem Diary II

Weekly Op-Ed •January 22nd, 2004• 0 Comments

A detailed account of a trip to Israel (part II) including a visit to the Old City and the Dead Sea and the meaning derived from them.

Yisro: Vision

Weekly Op-Ed •February 12th, 2004• 17 Comments

Without a clear enemy, nations often lose their visions of the future. Yet, within the Torah one can find direction towards a higher purpose.

Mishpatim: The Inferno

Weekly Op-Ed •February 19th, 2004• 0 Comments

Today, people spend too much energy fighting fires of apathy and cruelty that can be better used for growing and increasing happiness.

Terumah: The Passion

Weekly Op-Ed •February 26th, 2004• 0 Comments

Once again the Jews are up on trial against the other religions of the world. Yet the nation must continue to stand strong as a “light unto the nations.”

Atheists

Weekly Op-Ed • 1 Comment

Atheism is examined in contrast with faith, reason, and the principles of the founding fathers of the United States.

Tzav: Believers

Stories •Weekly Op-Ed •April 1st, 2004• 1 Comment

Using personal anecdotes as well as Chassidic stories, Rabbi Jacobson examines the different types of believers in light of his previous article on atheists.

Passover: The Slavery of Freedom

Weekly Op-Ed •April 8th, 2004• 0 Comments

While hardship and lack of material prosperity are challenging, the opposites – freedom, ease, and wealth – beget soul-numbing complacency.

Shemini: Religious Selfishness

Stories •Weekly Op-Ed •April 15th, 2004• 0 Comments

Using personal anecdotes, Rabbi Jacobson explores of the side effects of practicing religion by rote, and the beauty of a true “religious” experience.

Acharei Kedoshim: Transitions and Premonitions

Weekly Op-Ed •April 29th, 2004• 2 Comments

A personal story about a man standing on the edge of the spiritual world is shared, followed by an examination of both spiritual and physical dimensions.

Behar Bechukotai: Global Dimming

Weekly Op-Ed •May 13th, 2004• 1 Comment

Present day conflict has a direct source in biblical schisms of our forefathers, and in the ongoing war between the spiritual and the material.

Bamidbar: After 3316 Years How Far Are We From Sinai?

Weekly Op-Ed •May 20th, 2004• 4 Comments

Parshat Bamidbar: Sinai created an interface bridging heaven & earth, giving us the power to fuse matter & spirit entirely without compromising either or.

Nasoh: Balance

Weekly Op-Ed •May 27th, 2004• 9 Comments

Understanding tiferet (balance) in Parshat Nasoh: balance between spirit & matter; body & soul; and love (chesed) & discipline (gevurah) in relationships.

Behaalotecha: Mitchum

Weekly Op-Ed •June 3rd, 2004• 11 Comments

Parshat Behaalotcho discusses kindling the menorah that the flames rise on their own: recognizing G-d in our own lives by saying “im yirtzeh Hashem”.

Shelach: Ronald Reagan

Weekly Op-Ed •June 10th, 2004• 1 Comment

Learning from President Ronald Reagan & the sin of the spies in Parshat Shelach: hope & confidence breeds confidence; self-doubt & fear demoralizes & taints

Matot-Masei: Tzugekumene

Weekly Op-Ed •July 15th, 2004• 0 Comments

Response to a provocative letter: ‘The feeling of “us” and “them” was an undercurrent in the interactions between FFB’s and BT’s or non-observant Jews’.

Devarim: The Laugh

Weekly Op-Ed •July 22nd, 2004• 1 Comment

Life is a continuous cycle of troughs and crests, pain and joy, and in order to fully appreciate both, one must learn to ride the waves.

Erev Rosh Hashana: New Year Blessings

Weekly Op-Ed •September 14th, 2004• 0 Comments

Rabbi Simon Jacobson extends his personal Rosh Hashana (New Year) blessings upon everyone, and discusses personal missions.

Vayeirah : The Mission Continues

Weekly Op-Ed •October 28th, 2004• 0 Comments

The topics discussed include G-d’s plans “behind the curtain,” the power of prayer, and each individual’s mission in this world.

Chayei Sarah: America Speaks

Weekly Op-Ed •November 5th, 2004• 46 Comments

A commentary on the 2004 election of President George W Bush from a spiritual Jewish perspective.

Vayishlach: Hypocrisy

Weekly Op-Ed • 1 Comment

When it comes to behavior on a day-to-day level, we all fall short of our own standards.

Vayigash: Faith and Reason

Weekly Op-Ed •December 16th, 2004• 1 Comment

An examination of the apparent dichotomy between faith and reason in the modern world, and a realistic perspective of these two forces from a Biblical perspective.

Vayechi: Book Ends

Weekly Op-Ed •December 23rd, 2004• 0 Comments

The story of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is a blueprint that encapsulates in microcosm all the events that take place in history, both personally and globally.

Shmot: Tsunami

Weekly Op-Ed •December 30th, 2004• 1 Comment

In Parshat Shmot, Moses introduces us to the dichotomy of land and water, destruction and reparation, existing to keep the world in balance.

The War of Water and Land

Weekly Op-Ed • 0 Comments

In Parshat Shmot, Moses introduces us to the dichotomy of land and water, destruction and reparation, existing to keep the world in balance.

Vaeirah: A Changed Landscape

Weekly Op-Ed •January 6th, 2005• 0 Comments

Are humans inherently greedy and self-absorbed? Or is it our bodies that demand this from our actually selfless souls?

Bo: All This Talk About G-d

Weekly Op-Ed •January 13th, 2005• 2 Comments

You are created in G-d’s image with the power to act as a leader towards the Redemption, just as Moses does in Parshat Bo.

Yisro: Sinai 2005

Weekly Op-Ed •January 27th, 2005• 0 Comments

Discover how the revelation at Mt. Sinai served as the blueprint for mankind’s freedom versus law and order.

Money and Spirituality (Part 3/5)

Weekly Op-Ed • 0 Comments

Part III of a discussion on money and spirituality including material possessions and divine energy, ethical business, and the power of giving.

Money and Spirituality (Part 4/5)

Weekly Op-Ed • 0 Comments

In part four of “Money and Spirituality,” the true value of man is discussed, and the simultaneously socialist and capitalist approach of the Torah elucidated.