Innerspace - an Introduction to Kabbalah: Book Review and Recommendation

"Innerspace" edited by Rabbi Avraham Sutton and sharing the teachings of Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan is by far one of my most enjoyable books that I have read! It's essential themes include Kabbalah, Meditation and Prophecy!

For those looking for (what I would consider) the best written work introducing the initiate into the Sod level (mysteries) of Torah - this is a must! Rabbi Sutton takes us through the basics of what Kabbalah really is, the main works of the Arizal, the Olamot (the worlds,) the Sefirot, the Partzufim and just about every basic point needed to begin one's journey into the hidden world of Torah! The second section of the work takes us through the Maaseh Merkavah - the mysteries of the Divine Chariot as related in the first chapter of the book of Ezekiel. Here he teaches us what the prophet actually goes through when he experiences his Divine Prophecy.

For those making a start in Torah learning - studying the Chumash (the Bible), Mishnah and at least some parts of Talmud is really basics - not to mention having a strong understanding of the most essential Halachot (Jewish laws,) but for those wanting to begin tasting the wonderful flavours included in the mystical tradition - from the Zohar to the works of the Arizal or perhaps even further on investigating the other masters of Kabbalah - Innerspace is the best launch-pad to get started.

I highly recommend it, and further, for those looking to learn with a teacher, I also offer my services of working through the book together with you - online using Skype and webcam, assisting to elucidate any problematic areas, as well as giving further insights and a path to take in furthering one's knowledge of the kabbalistic system.

Please join me - or purchase a copy of this wonderful book today - and read it yourself! Reb Eliyahu offers a special book selling service directly from Israel for those in need of Torah books.

Book Review and Recommendation: Duties of the Heart "Chovot HaLevavot" by Rabbi Bachya ibn Pakuda

The "Chovot HaLevavot" - "Duties of the Heart" was written by Rabbi Bachya ibn Pekuda, known simply as Rabbeinu Bachya (our Rabbi Bachya) - a giant in Torah who lived in the 11th century.

His work can probably be considered the first serious text dealing with Jewish ethics. The work speaks well to anybody interested in understanding the beautiful benefits involved in refining one's character. He knew only too well that observance of the commandments by habit is not at all what true Torah is about. Lip service is not an acceptable way of serving G-d. Neither does it do anybody much good!

What counts - in addition to the actual observance - are the feelings behind the actions being done. This is not far from the approach taken by the kabbalists (mystics) throughout the years who stress the "Kavanah" - the intention - when performing a Mitzvah (commandment). Indeed, of what use is a body (the external) if not for the soul (the internal) - the heart? Duties of the Heart. Bodies get buried... but souls live on forever...

Rabbeinu Bachya takes us through such "Gates" as serving G-d, trusting in G-d (probably the most authoritative work ever compiled detailing the most essential parts of the theme of trust,) repentance, spiritual accounting and love of G-d - to name just a few.

It most likely fits in to the category of Mussar (Jewish ethics) though the themes included could well fit into other aspects of spirituality, meditation, and even perhaps a hint of Chassidic thought. Indeed Rabbeinu Bachya was very much of the mystic school of thinking - even though his book shares his concepts in a rational way.

If you've wanted to learn this book in further depth, together with an opportunity to discuss the topics and subjects covered, book a time to learn with me online using Skype and webcam.

For more about learning opportunities with me see my main pages about learning together:

http://www.lovingkindness.co/learn-torah/

and

www.lovingkindness.co/torah-lessons-online-and-in-person/

By learning with me - supporting me - you take an active part in allowing me to continue this path - as much as you take an active part in supporting the study of Torah.

Special Interview: Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz

For those able to start the new cycle of Day Yomi learning today - BeHatzlacha! Every word is an achievement. Out Sages teach us this is why the first word of every Masechet (tractate) is written in a beautiful box - adorned all on its own! Each word is a jewel in itself. There may be 2711 Dapim (double sided pages) to go through or 5422 single pages filled with hundreds of words on each - but this does not detract from the value of the achievement of understanding every single word. Seeing it as a world to itself!

Rabbi Steinsaltz has just begun his latest project of translating the entire Talmud into English. It's much more than that though, with the pages being beautifully adorned with insights, commentaries, biographies, colour photos, practical Halacha and much more! If you're looking for an ultimate learning partner - when you can't learn in person - you'll find it in his latest work. You can find out more about his English Talmud by visiting Artscroll or Koren Talmud Bavli - or both?

Enjoy the interview below as Rabbi Steinsaltz tells us more about all his projects and the specialness of learning the entire Talmud:

Ethics of our Fathers - Pirkei Avot - How to be "Just a Good Person"

PIRKEI AVOT

ETHICS OF OUR FATHERS

HOW TO BE A MENTSCH - "JUST A GOOD PERSON"

The Torah is made up of a written law and an oral law. In the oral law we find 63 tractates dealing with the explanation of everything written in the Written Law. One of these tractates is known as Pirkei Avot – literally “Chapters of our Fathers”. Colloquially it is known simply as “Ethics of our Fathers.”

We live in a world where everybody believes they have the right approach to living. Who needs a Divine set of laws to tell us what to do?! How often do we hear people speaking of “just being a good person”? Who needs the laws of keeping the Sabbath day holy, the laws of eating Kosher, or the laws for Family Purity? So many think that “just being a good person” is all that counts!

Of course there is far more to it than simply being a “good person.” But – in any case, how does one become a good person? Is being a good person all about placing one’s knife on the right of one’s plate and one’s fork on the left side? Is it about a man opening the door to let a lady through first?! Is it about a man moving a chair, waiting for a woman to be seated, and then pushing the chair into it’s correct place?!

Is being a good person simply about smiling at everyone all the time? What does it mean to “be a good person”?! Actually even those who continually philosophise life into “being a good person” have little idea of what this means. (Those who seem to think it’s all about ‘The Ten Commandments’ also need to reconsider… all 10 of them!)

The Sages knew well what “being a good person” is really all about. Their main teachings are included in this tractate of just 6 chapters and a little over 100 short sayings. In fact, these teachings were also given to Moses when he was on Mount Sinai, and are no less important to life than Tefillin, Tzizit, Kashrut, Shabbat or any other teaching!

Within this short space of just 6 chapters, our Sages have taught us what being a good person is really all about. Even if you feel you can’t take on the commandments that seem too illogical to you at this point in time, you surely agree that we all need to be “good people”. But like everything in life, even learning how to be a good person takes time and patience as one needs to know the true system behind it all.

Our Sages have taught us that “Derech Eretz Kadma LeTorah” – basic good behaviour precedes Torah. When it comes to grounding oneself in learning Torah, the first thing we need is a set of really good manners – about everything in life, whether pertaining to man, or to G-d. Just like one must build a foundation to a building before the building, so too must one cultivate one’s behaviour, and refine it to be an example to all – before one can tread the truly refined path of Torah.

Artscroll have done a remarkable job in presenting to the public these teachings in an easy to read English. If you’re interested in seeing what life really is all about, and what it means to be nothing less than just “a good person” – then you’ll have to purchase this book. It will keep you entertained for hours and hours. Great to read together with other family members and friends. Discuss these beautiful teachings together. I have no doubt, if improving yourself is a goal you strive for, this book will be one of your favourites ever!

Book Review: Rabbi Nachman's Stories

The times we are living in are filled with mystery. Is there anywhere we can search that will help us understand some of the secrets of life today?!

Rabbi Nachman taught that the greatest secrets of life can be found through the telling of “simple” stories. Stories that even a young child is able to enjoy. On the surface, stories seem fun and enjoyable. Inside, they contain the mysteries of life itself. Much like the entire first book of the Five Books of Moses – completely filled with stories of a variety of great men who are ultimately responsible for the revelation of monotheism in the world.

Rabbi Nachman was a master story teller. He is well known for 13 “lengthy” stories and dozens of others, each one filled with greater fantasy – than the next! You’ll hear about spiders and flies, about magic castles, about a master of prayer and some beggars. Most of all, Rabbi Nachman speaks about life itself – as it is lived day to day. Your life – and mine.

These beautiful stories were translated by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan. Included at the bottom of each page is a masterful commentary put together from a variety of authoritative sources.

If it’s the mysteries of life you’re after, you’ll find them hidden in this book. Of course, one reading may not be sufficient, and you may have to keep returning many more times. With 552 pages of “entertainment” available, it’s sure to keep you busy for hours on end!

It’s really a must for every Jewish home. You don’t have to be a scholar to read it – it’s so simple to read! And if you are a scholar, you’ll need years to master its contents.

Don’t wait another moment.

Purchase Rabbi Nachman’s Stories TODAY!

If you’re looking for other worthwhile books, do see the Torah Treasure Store and make a purchase from the comfort of your home.

If you're looking for a new book to read,
and are not sure what book is best for you,
contact Rav Eliyahu: rebeliyahu@gmail.com

Tomer Devorah - Learning During the Ten Days of Repentance

Every time period brings with it the opportunity to increase in one’s learning in a subject specifically related to that time.

The Ten Days of Repentance – the Asseret Yemei Teshuva – are no different. Many people want to learn something focused on these days. Something that can help them in growing correctly to prepare them from Rosh HaShanah to Yom Kippur and onwards.

The suggested material for this time period is the well known Kabbalistic work Tomer Devorah written by the RaMaK – Rabbi Moshe Cordevero. This work – small in quantity yet HUGE in quality covers everything necessary for a person to master to become a more refined and decent person.

The RaMaK was one of the greatest Kabbalists of all time. He lived from 1522-1570 and the holy Arizal considered him his teacher. Before leaving this world, he told his students that a very great man would lead them after he died. When they enquired who, he informed them that they would know, because a pillar of fire would appear by his coffin.

On the day of his burial, the Ari noticed the pillar of fire – which nobody else could see. While everyone began directing where the RaMaK should be buried, the Ari pointed out that the pillar of fire was positioned differently and that it was to that place that they should follow. The student knew immediately that he was the successor of the RaMaK.

The RaMaK and Arizal are buried next to each other in the city of Tzefas. Even though the Ari’s Kabbalah differed from the RaMaK’s due to his expressing everything in terms of Partzufim, whereas the RaMaK spoke of everything in terms of Sefirot – nevertheless this does not detract one iota from the RaMaK’s expertness in Kabbalah. The RaMaK wrote many works – most notably his Ohr Yakar – a complete line by line commentary on the Zohar and a foundation for all learning of Zohar today.

The RaMaK himself – in his modesty – says that he could not understand how he was able to write such a wondrous commentary. He could not believe that a man of flesh and blood could explain such mysteries. He expresses that he would sit down to write – with not much to say – and find himself suddenly overcome with the Divine Spirit – Ruach HaKodesh – and would simply write off his ideas – one flowing into the next.

His work Tomer Devorah – an absolute classic in both Kabbalistic and Mussar teachings – teaches a man how to improve his Middot – his attributes – his character traits. He bases the improvement of one’s character traits on the Ten Sefirot – the ten “tools” by which everything in the world exists and happens. Just as there are ten days from the start of Rosh HaShanah to Yom Kippur – so too a man can learn one of these Sefirot – it’s qualities and it’s values – and implement these traits into oneself on each of the days. After ten rigorous days of true growth, one will find oneself complete in likeliness to what the ten Sefirot are all about.

Indeed, the best way we can improve – as the RaMaK points out, is to liken ourselves to our Creator – just as He is merciful – so should we be merciful. Just as He is kind, so should we be kind. As He clothes the naked, we too should clothe the naked etc.

This is the time of the 13 attributes of mercy. A time when mercy reigns and G-d delivers an abundance of kindness and goodness on everyone. This period begins in the month of Elul, continues in strength over Rosh HaShanah – and progresses even further until Yom Kippur – when ultimately the slates are cleaned, and we each have the opportunity to begin “again” with a truly clean slate!

But, we need to know how to be kind. We need to know how to give. How to hold back (and when!) We need to know how to see another Jew in the correct light. We need to know how to hold ourselves back when filled with anger. How to judge another and realise who he is – and his importance and contribution to the world. Just as G-d has patience with all these same people that we have difficulties with (at the best of times!) – we too need to learn to see life through the eyes of G-d Himself – so to speak.

Once we can align ourselves to interacting with others – just as G-d interacts with us, we are able to grow to levels we cannot imagine. Just when we think we know what it means to interact with another and how to show who is in charge – the RaMaK comes through, informing us that we have much to learn. Life is not just about being in charge. In fact, it’s more about lowering oneself – even when others are truly in the wrong.

But in order to arrive at a balance can take a life-time of work. The RaMaK’s brevity seems too simple to be true. Yet, after reading through the text a number of times, one realises just how full and expansive his knowledge really is – just how much it does take to work on oneself and better oneself. How to judge oneself – and how to judge another.

It’s a must reading for this period of time. If you don’t yet have this book, you can purchase it directly from Nehora Bookshop (see link below) - the cheapest online Jewish bookshop around.

If you don’t manage to get it before Yom Kippur – don’t worry, you can still get it any time during the year and learn it throughout the year.

But, if you’re keeping up with the times, get a hold of this book as fast as you can. You’ll get to understand some beautiful Kabbalistic concepts, to understand the Sefirot in more detail, to see what it truly means to work on oneself, and be able to integrate so much more in your life in simply how to be a good person.

It takes a life-time of work though, so don’t give up! As with all Torah learning – it is advisable to take such learning with more than a spoonful of sugar too – through the learning of Chassidut. Sometimes, when learning direct Mussar, one finds oneself at a loss at knowing just how to internalise everything, and instead of sweetness, a variety of other tastes may come out. To combat this, the bowlful of sugar will do well to help the medicine go down!

If you’re looking for a learning partner to learn this special book with, please contact Rabbi Eliyahu – rebeliyahu@gmail.com and we can learn together on Skype or simply exchange emails until you feel comfortable enough to turn it into a learning session!

Don’t delay, purchase Tomer Devorah today. Keep up with the times – master these ten attributes. Liken yourself to your Creator, and become the wonderful person that you are.

Books by Rabbi Avraham Greenbaum - For Sale From the Yeshiva

BOOKS FOR SALE

ALL BOOKS WRITTEN

BY RABBI AVRAHAM GREENBAUM

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THE ESSENTIAL RABBI NACHMAN

A treasury of sayings, teachings, parables and stories
of the outstanding Chassidic sage, mystic and visionary,
Rabbi Nachman of Breslov (1772-1810)

Slim, elegant, pocket-size volume 12 x 17.5 cm.
576 pages printed on thin "Bible" paper
Classic gold-stamped, tooled, imitation-leather hardcover binding

Collected in this elegant pocket-size volume are Rabbi Nachman's most inspiring sayings and profound teachings on all aspects of life together with a generous selection of his artlessly beautiful, witty and profoundly deep tales and parables. These are among the most priceless jewels of the Jewish heritage and have universal application to people of all backgrounds and beliefs. All the selections have been newly translated from the original sources into the simplest possible language of today in order for Rabbi Nachman to speak to each one of us softly, clearly and directly, heart to heart

Biographical overview • Notes on Sources • Rabbi Nachman's Grave • The Breslover Chassidim • Rosh Hashanah in Uman

Amidst the confusing choices, contradictions and extremes confronting us on every side in today's world, never has the "flowing stream, the source of wisdom" - Rabbi Nachman's voice of honest truth, sanity, kindness and sound guidance for life - been more essential and necessary for each one of us and for the entire world!

Only ₪130 (Including Shipping)

KABBALAH

Kabbalah / Spirituality / Mysticism / Prayer / Temple Studies

SECRETS OF THE FUTURE TEMPLE
Mishkney Elyon

by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto ("Ramchal")
Translated by Avraham Greenbaum

The inner meaning and purpose of the Future Temple are explained in full in Mishkney Elyon, a priceless jewel from the legacy of towering 18th century mystical genius Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato ("Ramchal", 1707-47).

The Temple is the center point where all the branches of the Tree of Life connect with their roots, channeling a flow of sustenance and blessing to the entire world.

Includes overview, diagrams of Temple and Altar
and other study aids

ISBN 965-90120-1-2
Size: 23 x 17cm.
160 pages

Only ₪140 (Including Shipping)

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KABBALAH

Kabbalah / Mysticism

138 OPENINGS OF WISDOM
by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto
("RaMChaL " 1707-47)

A clear, comprehensive explanation
of the kabbalistic system
and its terminology

Translated by Rabbi Avraham Greenbaum

138 OPENINGS OF WISDOM is considered by leading scholars to be the classic exposition of the kabbalistic system, providing the student with all the concepts and understandings necessary to navigate and find meaning in the Zohar , the teachings of the ARI and other kabbalistic and chassidic literature.

138 OPENINGS OF WISDOM was written by Ramchal as the final step on a ladder of initiation into the kabbalistic wisdom that starts with Derekh HaShem ("The Way of G-d") and Da'as Tevunos ("The Knowing Heart").

512 pages HARDCOVER
Size 23.5 x 17 cm.
Classic gold-stamped tooled imitation leather binding

Only ₪200 (Including Shipping)

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HEALING

Health / Healing / Self-help / Kabbalah / Mysticism

THE WINGS OF THE SUN
The Jewish Healing Tradition in Theory and Practice
by Avraham Greenbaum

This innovative study of healing teachings in the Bible, Talmud, Kabbalah and writings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov has become the authoritative contemporary work on the Jewish healing tradition and its present-day application. A must for doctors, therapists, students of healing and all who wish to explore and understand the original sources of the tradition.
• Healing in the Bible • Kabbalah view of the human body • Healing the Soul • The ten pulse patterns and ten kinds of song • Prayer, meditation and other healing pathways • Care of the body • Recovery and rehabilitation

ISBN # 965-90120-4-7
Size: 23.5 x 17 cm. 500 pages
Available in French.

Only ₪200 (Including Shipping)

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BOOKS IN HEBREW

Health / Healing / Self-help

KRIYAH LE-CHAYIM
"A Call to Live"
by Avraham Greenbaum

First Hebrew edition

"Behind the distress and frustration of illness lies a deeper message. It is a call to LIVE! There is no more effective way to encourage the healing process than by deciding to live life to the full extent that you can now. Making this decision is one of the most important steps you will take to recovery."

Beneath the surface simplicity of this eloquent work lie profound depth and truth. Radiating unshakable faith in the ultimate kindness of God, it will bring genuine comfort and fresh courage to all facing serious illness and crisis.

ISBN # 965-90120-7-1
Size: 21 x 13.5 cm
160 pages. Softcover

Only ₪100 (Including Shipping)

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Health / Healing / Self-help

HEMSHECH BARIE
"A Healthy Future"
by Avraham Greenbaum

HEMSHECH BARIE, "A Healthy Future", by Rabbi Avraham Greenbaum, is a handbook in Hebrew for parents and teachers on how to teach children the fundamentals of healthy lifestyle. Tastefully designed in a two-color format with attractive illustrations and visual aids, the book presents classic Torah teachings on the mitzvah of self-care, safety, hygiene, proper diet, exercise, etc. side by side with practical healthcare recommendations based on contemporary medical science.

• Attractive 2-color design with illustrations
"Well written, containing everything necessary on the subject."

Rabbi Chaim Kanievski (son of "the Steipler")

"Done beautifully in good taste and with wisdom."

Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, Rishon LeTzion

"The books deserve a place in every Jewish home and every Torah educational institution"

Dr. Geoffrey Greenfield, Pediatrician, Jerusalem

ISBN # 965-90120-5-5
21 x 13.5 cm
160 pages. Softcover

Only ₪100 (Including Shipping)

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Health / Healing / Self-help

SHEMIRAT HAGUF VEHANEFESH
"Care of the Body and Soul"
by Avraham Greenbaum

SHEMIRAT HAGUF VEHANEFESH is a Hebrew pocket-sized practical guidebook specially written and designed to impact yeshiva students in the 13-16 age group, presenting the basic rules of self-care in a simple, practical way fully consistent with the conditions of yeshiva life and values of the Torah world, using a sophisticated and appealing two-color design format.

• Attractive 2-color design with illustrations
"Very important work. All Bney Torah should practice what is written here!"

Rabbi Shmuel Auerbach, Rosh Yeshivas Maalos HaTorah

"Yashar ko'ach on this blessed initiative. The healthcare guidance is reliable and fully consistent with the Torah view and contemporary medical science."

Professor Avraham Steinberg
Professor of Child Neurology, Shaarey Tzedek Hospital, Jerusalem
Editor of Encyclopedia of Refuah & Halachah

ISBN # 965-90120-6-3
16 x 10 cm. 96 pages. Softcover

Only ₪60 (Including Shipping)

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Please note: Prices subject to change without notice.