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Subjects

Ahavas Yisroel / Loving	Negative To Positive	Chassidus	Divine Connection
. Divine Customs	Faith	Humility	Life
Love/Fear of G-d	Mitzvah	Moshiach	Personal Growth
Prayer	Rebbe	Shabbos / YomTov	Torah
	Teshuva	Yetzer Hara

1. Ahavas Yisroel / Loving

1. Ahavas Yisroel – Blessing

The Baal Shem Tov said that when one person blesses another this blessing is accepted by G-d far deeper than even the advocating of The Angel Michoel – the advocate of the Jews in Heaven.
 
{In other words, G-d loves it when we love, and it moves Him deeply. As the Alter Rebbe teaches, when one Jew blesses another with their full heart, this “enters G-d’s heart” who then blesses them.

Never stop blessing your fellow!}

Citations (Sources for first 200+) at the end

• Ahavas Yisroel – You Get What You Give

“Vehavta Lireacha Kamoicha” – “Love your friend like yourself.”

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that this means that G-d is like your shadow who corresponds to your every move, so as you treat, love, and help others, similarly G-d treats, loves, and helps you!

• Ahavas Yisroel – Gateway To G-d

The Baal Shem Tov said, “The love for one’s fellow is the first Gateway to G-d.”

{In other words, if you wish to love G-d, you must first love your fellow.}

• Ahavas Yisroel – How To Generate

The commandment to love G-d or a fellow, can be fulfilled when one contemplates thoughts that inspire love.
 
{In other words, thoughts and ideas will generate emotions.

Therefore by thinking about what is lovable in another we generate love for them.

We need to contemplate the great qualities of our fellow Jews, including that we are effectively a Single-Divine-Soul radiating in many bodies, thereby generating the emotion of love.}

• Ahavas Yisroel – How To Achieve

 “Listen amongst your brothers.”

To achieve the sensitivity, appreciation, and understanding of the greatness of every Jew, you must be “amongst your brothers.”

This occurs when one is so connected with their fellow Jews to the extent that even the simplest is considered by you as your brother!

{When we feel connected to every Jew, G-d shows us their great qualities!}          

• Ahavas Yisroel – G-d’s Pride

When the Baal Shem Tov was a hidden (secret) Tzaddik, He would travel to different cities and towns, gathering the men, women, and children, telling them stories with lessons from Ein Yaakov (fascinating ethical stories from the Talmud).

In one town He spoke about Reb Yaakov, a great genius who would study the Talmud from memory.

When one studies from memory, one must be incredibly focused.  One day his son came by and said something clever. Reb Yaakov stopped his studies to listen and enjoy his son’s wit.

The Baal Shem Tov says that likewise, “When G-d asked the Angels if he should make man, the Angels were none-too-impressed…”
However, when a Jew goes to Synagogue to pray and listens to the Torah class and takes a lesson in life from it, then G-d gathers all the Angels and says, “You Angels have no financial worries, however, this person correctly has a wife and children which I demanded of him.  Furthermore, he must support them, pay his taxes, etc. yet he still finds the time to go learn and find lessons for his life!”

The Baal Shem Tov explained, “When you contemplate that it is the Jews that G-d brags about…!” this will inspire great love and reverence.

•  Ahavas Yisroel – The Purpose Of Life

 The Baal Shem Tov teaches that a Neshama (soul) will come down to live seventy or eighty years on earth for the sole purpose of helping another!

In general, this pertains to another’s physical needs, but it applies infinitely more so to their spiritual!

{The Previous Rebbe said that this teaching inspired hundreds of thousands of Jews to genuinely care, uplift, and dedicate themselves to each other!

The Rebbe explains, although the Baal Shem Tov mentions only one good deed, it is obvious that after one must come another and another, etc.}    

• Ahavas Yisroel – For Every Jew

The Baal Shem Tov said, “I love the pious simple Jew.
He or she contains the deepest moral treasures!”
 
{Every Jew contains great moral convictions.}

• Ahavas Yisroel – For Every Jew

Even the most unlearned Jew has the greatest innate qualities!

{In other words, we must equally respect all our fellow Jews, as they have innate greatness and goodness.}

1. Ahavas Yisroel – Pure Love

The Baal Shem Tov revealed the essence of Ahavas Yisroel:

Just as one’s love for G-d is beyond intellectual understanding rather it is Because He is G-d!

And similarly, one’s love for Torah is beyond intellectual appreciation, rather due to the fact that It is G-d’s Torah!

Likewise, our love for a fellow Jew is not due to any quality, but rather Just because He is a Jew!
 
{Love for a fellow Jew should be natural.}

1.  Ahavas Yisroel – Real Love

The Baal Shem Tov once said, “Behold, I testify by Heaven and earth that in a very serious judgment in the Heavenly Court regarding a person who just passed on…

Now this person was quite unlearned (he could only say his prayers and the Tehillim) but he was extraordinarily loving!
In his thoughts, he would always think about others.
In his speech, he would speak with love.
In his deeds, he did whatever he could to help everyone!

He would feel the pain of every Jew, whether man or woman, and he rejoiced in their happiness.

The Heavenly Court decided that he would have a place in Heaven by the Great Tzaddikim and Scholars, of whom our Sages say, ‘They are lovers of G-d!’”

The Baal Shem Tov continued, “When a Jew sighs over the pain occurring to a fellow Jew, this annuls all negative decrees. When we rejoice in the blessings of a fellow Jew and wish them well, this is as dear to G-d as the prayer of Rabbi Yishmoel the Cohen Gadoil, in the Holy of Holies!”    
 
{In other words, what a parent – in this case G-d – loves most, is His children loving and caring for one another!

Feel your fellow Jews’ joy or G-d forbid suffering.}

1. Ahavas Yisroel – Revealing G-d

The Baal Shem Tov told his Holy-Disciples that through Mesiras Nefesh, unconditional giving for a fellow Jew, we reveal the Divine.  
 
{To reveal our Divinity, we must be ready to sacrifice for another!}

1. Ahavas Yisroel – See Qualities

The Baal Shem Tov taught us to see others’ qualities, and if one doesn’t see them, it is not because they aren’t there, rather because one’s “glasses” are dirty.

{As the Previous Rebbe said “Jews are good” hence if we are not seeing it… the glasses which we are peering through are tainted.}

1.  Ahavas Yisroel – To Everyone

We must love a Jew simply because he is a Jew!

The difference between a scholar and an unlearned Jew is only in the expression of one’s soul’s light, however regarding the soul’s essence, all are similar!  
 
{In other words, “labels” / titles are something external.  
Intrinsically we are all Divine.}

1. Pray For Those Who Harass You
   
   

Our negative speech causes others to speak negatively against us.

Therefore if people deride us, it is an effect of our own bad speech. The situation will get worse if we ostracize them; rather pray that our enemies repent and they will.

1. Charity   20% +

The Baal Shem Tov explains that the idea of not giving more than 20% to charity only applies to someone who fears losing their money. 

But one who trusts that G-d will repay them, can by all means give more!

1. Charity  20% +

The Baal Shem Tov was asked why he gives more than 20% to charity, for it is known, that “one should not give more than 20%.”

He explained that this refers to one who finds it difficult to give – but he enjoys it!

1. Charity – Always

Regarding all Mitzvos, if you don’t do it for the sake of G-d, perhaps it is better if it wasn’t done…

But with charity, although it is better to give altruistically, the bottom line is someone has food!

{Always give even if your motives aren’t 100% pure.}

1.  Charity – From Whom To Take

A person who needs charity should bear in mind that they are giving another the opportunity to save their lives! (As it states “Charity saves from death!”) By having this intention and taking the money, you are doing a great Mitzvah.

Someone who takes charity with the proper intention should only take from worthy Jews, and not run to anyone…

• Charity – Helping

If you cannot financially help someone, you should at least give them a letter of recommendation.

{In other words, do whatever you can to help!}

• Charity – Give Without Being Asked

“You should surely open your hand to the poor” – when one gives to the poor, this causes a Divine union (Yichud).
The coin which is small is “Yud.”

Your five fingers are “Hei.”

The stretching of your hand outward “Vov.”

And the poor person receiving in his hand is “Hei.”

When this is the order of events, this is the Divine name.

But if the poor person first sticks out his hand – it is not the correct order.

We must first find who needs and give to them, and then G-d likewise will “find” and give to us.

{As the Rebbe teaches, the correct mechanism of giving charity is not waiting to be asked, but looking for who needs it!}

• Charity – Give Sensitively

Even if we are filled with Torah knowledge and deep love as well as awe of G-d and this motivates us to give charity, we may be “murderers!” 

For if we give charity but do not feel the other person’s plight… (this can cause the other to feel ashamed, which is a form of “murder.”)  

{Whenever you give charity, remember,  feel compassion.} 

• Charity – Intention

The Baal Shem Tov says that when it comes to giving charity, your intention doesn’t matter, because the important thing is that the person in need receives it!

{This is explained in #19 above.}

• Compassion – Divine Reflection

“Just as G-d is compassionate so should you be.”

What causes G-d to think about us? For we are bodies of gross (albeit minute) material, but because we are compassionate, G-d “reflects” us, and likewise is compassionate.

• Run To Help

There are two types of kind people – one type will see someone in need, for example who may be hungry, and they will invite them in and feed them.
 
The other type, like Abraham, has such a strong desire to help that he runs to find someone to help, and if he can’t find anyone to assist feels pain.  

• Unconditional Giving

G-d is a giver – without any expectation of receiving. This is the “male form,” and we should strive to give like this.

{Give Unconditionally.}

• Daily Goodness

See to it that every day you do some act of goodness and kindness whether great or small – in fact, you should eagerly anticipate that perhaps today G-d will give you such a marvelous opportunity / Mitzvah!
 Our soul shines from the good we do.

• Forgiveness

The Baal Shem Tov said: Every positive command / Mitzvah has a prohibition, for example “eating kosher” has the prohibition of “not eating non-kosher.” The Mitzvah of “loving your fellow Jew” has a corresponding prohibition to “never hold any grudges (resentment.)”

{The way to overcome resentment is as Jewish law teaches us to either confront a person who wronged us and ask them “How come they did this?” or to forgive them.

Tanya (Chapter 32) explains that if you can feel sorry for this person, as their Divine soul is currently hijacked by an evil spirit (as it states, “a person sins not unless a foolish spirit overcomes them” as intrinsically everyone wishes to be good) then your compassion will eliminate your anger / resentment.

Finally, the Alter Rebbe teaches in Iggeres Hakodesh that believing in reincarnation – hence what may be unfair in this lifetime may be a karmic debt from a previous… will eliminate anger (as anger comes from the sense of injustice.)

In summary, we may not carry resentment, anger nor grudges and we are obligated to either query the offence or forgive.}  

• See Good
  
  

Once after Tikkun Chatzios the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov were speaking about the greatness of the Jewish people.

However, they were not speaking from their heart, rather for the sake of causing pleasure to G-d, and the Baal Shem Tov saw that in Heaven this caused Din / upsetness.

He went out and shouted at them, “It is like you are a woman telling her husband the greatness of the children of his other wife (doing this only to find favor…)
‘I Yisroel say, that the Jewish people are a Holy People, they are good, Good! GOOD! filled with goodness and kindness, and Torah, and all sorts of positive traits!’”

And He continued saying wonderful things until He caused a delight in Heaven.

G-d says, “See no evil in my children.”

Once the Baal Shem Tov visited a city, and His host went to listen to a roving preacher, but the Baal Shem Tov heard that this person was preaching “fire and brimstone.”

He sent his attendant to tell the host to come home. At the same time, the attendant told people that the Baal Shem Tov disapproved of this lecture.

Slowly but surely, the people dissipated. 

And eventually, the preacher stopped his lecture. 

The next day the lecturer came to the Baal Shem Tov and the Baal Shem Tov asked him “Who are you?”

So he told him… and then the preacher asked, “Why didn’t you like my speech?”

The Baal Shem Tov got up and with tears in His eyes, said, “You speak badly about Jews?! Do you know that when a simple Jew who is a laborer and is busy all day and then realizes that it is Minchah and goes into a home to Daven, the Angels in Heaven shake!”
 
The Baal Shem Tov said that even a Jew who totally forgets about G-d and is consumed by his internal worries, business, etc. but then Minchah comes and he gives a sigh thinking, “How could I have been so preoccupied?!” and then goes to Daven Minchah – this moan shatters the Heavens.

{In other words, G-d not only doesn’t judge us, He is impressed by any good deed we do!}

• Jews – Stars

The Baal Shem Tov said, just as stars appear so small below, but are so big above – similarly the Jews!

• Mirror Image
  
  

A complete Tzaddik that has no evil in themselves sees no evil in others. In his eyes all are righteous.
And therefore, His love for the Jewish people is very great.

But if He hasn’t completely rectified himself, He will see some of His own imperfections.

He should know that the guilt He sees in others is also within Himself.

When you see no evil in others, it is a sign (that there is no evil in you…)

{The truth is, this is a very important concept – for we know that no one is judged unless they judge themselves!

How is this so? 

In Heaven, on judgment day, they show someone a scene and ask them to judge it. Though one thinks they are passing judgment on another, the scene is in fact something from their own life; as such one becomes their own judge!
This teaches us to always judge favorably, for eventually we end up judging ourselves.}

• Judgmental?

Our Sages teach, “Who is wise? One who learns from everyone.”
A wise person can recognize themselves and their limitations…
But a foolish person sees only what’s wrong in others, and not in themselves.

One can easily discover where (whom) they truly are by understanding the two chambers in Heaven:

The first chamber of “Zechus” contains positivity, and the chamber of “Din” contains negativity and judgment.

In the chamber of “Zechus,” even for the greatest sin they can find an extenuating circumstance which will excuse it.

However in the chamber of negativity, even for the very righteous they can find faults.

{Ask yourself, “Am I judgmental or compassionate?”}

• Judging – Don’t

Just as when you see a dirty face in a mirror, it is your own; Similarly, the dirt we see in another is our own.

{So judge not.}

• Judgmental?

When one judges another, saying that they deserve a punishment for a wrong they have done… then in the Heavenly Court they check the deeds of the one who judges. 

Now it may be that the person did not do the same sin, however, we know that there are sins that are comparable. For example, one who is arrogant is like one who committed adultery – one who is angry is like one who worshiped an idol. And perhaps the person who is judging, their sin is deemed worse, and the punishment is then meted out (on them.) 

If one excuses the sinner by saying that “he has such a strong Yetzer Hara…” (in other words, “the sinner is good, yet the evil in him got the better of him…”) then the person excusing the sinner is likewise forgiven (for their sins.)

• Be Calm
  
  

The Mishnah says, “Man is punished with and without his knowledge.”

The Baal Shem Tov says that “with his knowledge” refers to a person who is very bitter, and says that he prefers death G-d forbid. 

And “without his knowledge,” is when a man judges another person, believing that he deserves punishment for his sin, this then is visited upon him.
 
{In other words, be careful about what you wish for… and don’t judge others.} 

•  Compassion
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says that when we judge another, we are judged.

Hence when something bad happens to another and instead of feeling their suffering and pain, we believe that “due to their sins they deserve it,” this can be G-d forbid visited upon us.

But when we feel their pain, and we ask G-d to help them! we receive a blessing!

• Judgmental?
  
  

# 1. We should never judge; we must always see the good in others.

# 2. If in any way we have been demeaned, we must view it as the verse states, “It is not good for man to be alone – a help opposing him I will make” (which means occasionally one gets rebuked) for if we are never judged we can come to believe we are completely righteous (hence the rebuke is really a gift as it helps us to be humble)!

When we see some sort of negativity in another, we must realize that on some level we have this too! (In this way, our anger is removed and we remain humble.)

And the main thing is to believe that in everything you say and do, G-d is in it.

• Mirror Image
  
  

If you see (or hear about) a sin in someone else, realize that you have this problem, at least on some level.
And you should fix it within yourself.

{When encountering another’s sin it is a time to reflect if and how we have this within ourselves, and how we can rectify it.}

• Speak Favorably

“Stretch out your hand not with a wicked person to be a witness to violence.”

This means that you should never speak poorly about another Jew G-d-forbid.

If you do this, you’ll have to be a “witness of violence.”

For when the evil Yetzer Hara speaks badly and brings this person to the Heavenly Court and prosecutes him desiring a punishment, they will bring you as a testimony to his words (for the Yetzer Hara on his own is not believed.)

Therefore, if you must speak about a negative / sin that you have to get rid of, never speak about the person, only the behavior.

•  Extenuating Circumstance

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that when you see something wrong in a bad person, you should imagine some kind of excuse – such as “It is because he had such a strong Yetzer Hara that he sinned” or because “His constitution is so coarse that he doesn’t know how bad the sin is etc.”
When you do this, you save yourself from being judged.

The truth is that anything negative you see in another is in fact something you yourself do (or something similar).

There are decrees and Accusers above who wish to condemn / judge you.

When you find an extenuating circumstance for your friend, this  then is applied to you as well. 

When you do not get angry with the sinner and instead attribute the sin to his Yetzer Hara, then when judgments come up against you, it will cause that the Heavenly court will find you in favor.

• Extenuating Circumstance
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches us that if we condemn another, and say that due to their sin, something bad should happen to them… we are in fact judging ourselves.

Though we may have not done that sin, nevertheless it could be that we do something similar.

For example, it says, “Whoever is arrogant is as if he committed adultery…  whoever is angry is as if he worshipped an idol.”
And it could be that one’s own sin is even worse than the other person’s.  

However, if a person decides to be forgiving and says for example, “This person must have a very difficult time and can’t control himself…” or similar excuses, then one in fact creates a merit for oneself.

And this is what it says, “From all my sins save me, through the fact that I’ve never condemned anyone.”

• Never Judge

I heard from my father-in-law, The Great Holy Rabbi Avrohom Mordechai of Pintshov, that once the Holy Disciples of The Baal Shem Tov were praying on Rosh Hashanah.

The tobacco pouch of one of the disciples fell to the ground and he picked it up and had a sniff. His friend praying close by saw this and was upset that he had interrupted his prayers to smell tobacco.
 

The Baal Shem Tov saw by Divine prophecy that this Holy Tzaddik being upset and judgmental would cause the disciple to pass away later that year.

The Baal Shem Tov went into Heaven and prayed very hard for him, but nothing worked.

Eventually on Hoshana Rabba, when the Tzaddik who was upset said Tikkun, the Baal Shem Tov miraculously removed the Tzaddik’s intelligence and he could no longer study.

He began thinking about the greatness of G-d, and he thought, “Why did G-d make Tobacco?” He concluded that there must be great souls (due to reincarnation) that can’t come down into physical bodies, and the way they will be rectified is through a smell, similar to “a pleasing fragrance to G-d.”

He then regretted that he was upset with his friend, for who knows, maybe there were Holy Souls that this Tzaddik elevated through his sniff.

Throughout the day of Hoshana Rabba, the Baal Shem Tov as per His custom would answer everyone who asked Him anything, and would tell them what would occur as He saw with His Divine prophecy from one end of the world to the other. Each person would prepare a question, whether in Talmud or other matters, and He would answer them all.

This disciple asked the question “Why did G-d make Tobacco be discovered in our generations?” And the Baal Shem Tov said, “Tell me what you think…?” And he responded with his thought (as mentioned above). Then the Baal Shem Tov said, “There is greater reason,” and mentioned the story that happened with his friend, and He told him, “In the future, you should always judge favorably, and not cause negative judgment.”
 

{A holy person who judges another negatively actually can cause tremendous damage so we must never judge.}

• Judgmental?

Instead of criticizing, see yourself as an equal to everyone.

(Consider that if you who know Torah, G-d etc. and nonetheless when you encounter pleasures of this world you have a desire for it, then those who are not privileged to know G-d or Torah how much more so must they desire it ! As such forgive their indiscretions.)

{In other words, everyone has their challenges so don’t condemn.}

• Spiritual Kindness
  
  

Avrohom Avinu recognized G-d when He was three, however, His greatness lies in the fact that He had genuine self-sacrifice to teach others.

{In other words greater than recognizing G-d, is helping man.}

• Divine Reaction
  
  

Whatever we do below, such as an act of kindness, causes a similar reaction from above.

Hence when we are generous this causes G-d to give to us generously.

•  Rose Colored Glasses

Light in Hebrew has the same numerical value as “secret” (Roz) and “stranger (Zar).”

When you reveal a person’s inner light (through seeing him or her in a positive light) this creates, from a “stranger,” love.

{By seeing the qualities in another, they will love you.}

• Love

The Baal Shem Tov gave extraordinary love to the simple pious unlearned Jews, and His Holy successor the Maagid said, “If He could see while He was alive the tremendous joy this love gave G-d, He would have done so in an extraordinarily more loving manner.”

{G-d loves love.}

• Love

The Nara”n (nefesh, ruach, neshoma, soul levels) of a person incarnate in the seven sefiros.

The light of the nefesh spreads into the secret of one’s help and animals. If a person defiles his nefesh through evil actions, he will have pain from his help, and animals – the horses and donkeys will die… And sometimes through his bad actions, he causes souls to descend into the Kelipah and they incarnate into the plants and the physical matter.

And when his animals graze on that grass, the souls that are there cause illness and death to his animals (as vengeance…)

When a Tzaddik passes by there, he elevates those souls – then they leave the animals alone, and they become healed.

If one sins in his ruach (speech) like lashoin-hara or speaking negatively about a Jew etc… We know that Holy Speech is called unity, and the opposite of this is Lashoin Hara (causing disunity.)  So, G-d-forbid one who talks Lashoin Hara affects the Vov… and his is a sin worse than idolatry, murder, and adultery, for the person literally spills the “blood” (visage/image) of his fellow. And the Shechinah cannot shine.

This is a general sin, and he removes all the energy and radiance that is in the Shechinah. 

From this, bad people come and speak poorly against him, and this breaks him – he will also have problems with his wife.

And one’s suffering is in direct proportion to one’s negative effect.

And through his suffering, the person whom he criticized becomes appeased, and he forgives him.

This is regarding a Tzaddik who just happened to speak negatively about another (accidentally) but a wicked person who indulges in malicious speech – lives in this world peacefully, but his soul is cut off, and loses any connection to existence.

The Neshomoh dwells in the mind, so if one sins in thoughts (thoughts are where sperm originates) they will get pain from their children.

In all the Sefiros and emotions, one can elevate the Nara”n (nefesh, ruach, neshomoh) besides for Malchus, for that is where the Kelipah derive from…

It is therefore difficult to elevate the holiness from there.

One needs great faith to withstand many tests – and to be firm in their convictions that in every single negative experience G-d is with them. In other words, “doing things for him.”

One should believe with complete faith and trust in the name of G-d, and rely on G-d in all matters – and in this way one handles the evil of his friends and accepts it with joy.

And the principle is derived that the people who hate you come from sins of speech, therefore one must elevate them through speech – the speech of prayer.

To pray for them that they should return to G-d as Reb Yehuda Hachassid did.

Then every Jew who caused you suffering and speaks evil against you becomes a Baal-Teshuvah, even a gentile converts!

However if one doesn’t do this, but rather casts them aside and causes upon them Din / judgment – they become coarse and hate him even more.

This is a punishment for a Tzaddik who is not completely good – for all who hate him and cause him mental pain actually comes from the source of his soul, and are literally the ruach / spirit of his soul.

And they were created to cause him suffering and humility – that he shouldn’t become arrogant G-d-forbid – which would cause him to fall into Kelipah.

This truth being the case, why should the Tzaddik cast them aside? For they cause his life in this world and the next.

Therefore with all his effort, he must fix them and shine his light upon them. He must elevate them in prayer – and through the prayer, the judgment is sweetened, and one extracts the ruach (spirit) from them, and the pure evil part automatically disintegrates.

One shouldn’t be angry and cause judgment on them (even between oneself and G-d…)

On the contrary, one should pray for them and see miracles – and the good ones will return to be his friends.

And this is the idea of Moses, the true Shepherd… He gave the Jewish people the Torah, and they became His disciples.

1.  Physical then spiritual

One of the ways to encourage someone spiritually is by helping them physically.  One shouldn’t make spirituality a precondition to assisting.

Besides the simple Ahavas Yisroel (the commandment to unconditionally love) which this fulfills, this will also make the person far more receptive to listening.

This was the path the Baal Shem Tov forged.

• Mirror Image

If a person sees evil in another, they should realize that G-d showed it to them so that they should rectify this evil within themselves.

{And as the Rebbe says, because we have self-love, we can only see our own bad through the reflection of the bad we see in others… so this is actually a mechanism to know what we need to improve on.}

• Daily Good Turn
  
  

Let not a day pass without an extra Mitzvah (good deed) whether big or small, as our Sages have said, “Be careful (Zahir) to do a small Mitzvah (as you are careful with the big).”

The word “careful” / “zahir” also has the terminology of “shine.”

In other words, the soul will shine both from a small or big Mitzvah, as “G-d seeks the heart.”

This in fact is a great thing – for then you know that you accomplished something today, as you created an Angel (for every good deed makes an Angel).

It states, “If you have but one Angel that advocates for you, etc.” (then this can then save you.)

• A Mitzvah – Daily

One who does a daily (extra) Mitzvah is protected from all harm – therefore one must always be on the lookout as to what good deed they can do today!

• Reaching Out
  
  

A person’s mission is to elevate those below – higher.

In order to do this one must descend to the level that the other person is in. 

As in the example of a prince who fell into bad company and no one could get him to come home; it took one minister dressing up as a commoner to slowly get him to return.

Similarly, the Rabbis and teachers must go to the level of the people… “wear their clothing,” in order to elevate them.

As it is written, Shmuel the Prophet said, “We sinned.”

In other words, he went to the level of the people. 

Note 5 To save somebody who is in the dirt, one must be ready to get dirty.

• Peace
  
  

The combination of two things (and certainly people, such as in marriage – friendship, etc.) is peace.

A person who creates peace between people is called “a pursuer of peace.”

• Caring

There are two kinds of philanthropists: one who being very wealthy and magnanimous forgoes any small loss, and one who is careful in all details not because they are cheap, but rather because a truly good person cares.

The Baal Shem Tov was like the latter, and every single Jewish soul, no matter how seemingly “insignificant” was of the greatest import to Him.

{We see this behavior by the Rebbe, in fact by all the Rebbes, and certainly we too should so emulate. In other words, true charity is not just distributing one’s wealth but being very caring – not being able to sleep unless the others’ needs are met.}
   

• Bad To Good
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says it is natural to the Jewish people that when something negative occurs we rejoice – for we realize that there was a Din (negative decree against us) and through the negative occurrence it got eliminated (“washed away”) and now it will be good.

The way to deal with an obnoxious person is to ignore them and to increase your study of Torah and then their negativity will disappear.

If however a person gets angry or seeks vengeance (or G-d-forbid does something cruel) then on the contrary, one is helping the enemy.

The purpose of rejoicing in the negative is that certainly there was a Din (a negative decree in Heaven) and through what occurred, the decree has been averted!  

• See No Evil – Cosmic Healing
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that when you see someone evil, instead of hating them, you must realize that as we are a single soul there must be subconsciously some of that evil in me. (Though I repress the fact I have it, so as not to make myself appear bad – even to myself.) Hence by rectifying that evil within myself, we eliminate it.

{A good technique is ask yourself: “What’s wrong with people?” Whatever answer comes up, is in you (for we can only see our own evil) and by fixing it in yourself, you will fix it in the world.}

1. Anger
   
   

The Gemarah teaches, Mar Ukbah sent a note to Reb Elazar, “There are people that are harassing me, and I have the power to hand them over to the Government for judgement…”

He wrote back to him the verse: “Be silent to G-d, and await for Him.”

“Get up early and rise and study in The House of Torah study, and they will dissipate.”

The Baal Shem Tov explained – Reb Elazer gave him great advice, that through studying more Torah, the Dinim (harshness) will be rectified. The reason people are harassing below is because there is a Din above. This Din enclothes itself in bad people.

The solution is to not fight with them… but rather to learn more Torah, namely the inner dimension of Torah (Chassidus), which is the secret to knowledge.

And one should pray with love and awe of G-d which is Daas / knowledge (feeling).

And through the Daas and words (of prayer) one elevates Heavenward to unify in the world of thought – where there are no harsh judgments nor evil, rather only good. Then, one includes those fallen Dinim in the positive. And all of this is through recognizing that these Dinim, are fallen letters.

The harsh speech is the fallen letters – therefore when one studies Torah with love and awe which is the level of Daas, one elevates those letters to The Source of Torah in Heaven.

And they become rectified in their source.  As is known, all that descends below is via letters of Divine speech, and through elevating them to their source, the evil falls away and all becomes good. Then, the people who were previously enemies become friends.
 

1. Relationships – Humility
    

Just as a person who is standing over a body of water, their shadow over it is quite large… and as one bends, the shadow becomes smaller until when one places their face right to the water then the face reflected in the water is exactly their own (size).

Similarly, when a person is in a relationship with another person, if you act “big” / haughty the other does too. 

But the humbler you are, so is the other.

The same thing applies in our relationship with G-d. 

This is why it states – as Moses was the most humble person – G-d spoke to him “face to face.”

1. Anger
   
   

“Do not hate your brother in your heart – you should surely rebuke him, and do not consider him to have sinned.”

The Baal Shem Tov teaches, “Do not hate your brother in your heart.” 

Anyone who hates a fellow Jew, even just in their heart – not that he actually G-d-forbid does anything wrong or says something bad about him, but just resents him… such a person transgresses a Biblical prohibition.
 

So how can one ensure not to transgress this? As such, “you should surely rebuke him…”

You should go to the person that you know hates you – now his hate must have a cause… and the cause is surely something related to your conduct.

He probably saw behaviors that he considers violates the Torah. Therefore the solution is to go to him and prove that your behavior and method is correct.

“And do not consider him to have sinned.”

So you may query, why should I have to do this?! 

This is out of brotherly love, and this is the meaning of “And do not consider him to have sinned.” 

Your love for him should cause that you do not allow him to have the sin of hatred. For you will show him how your manner and method is according to the Torah, and this will remove the sin of hatred from him. 

However as you are doing such a great Mitzvah, perhaps you may say a harsh word in the process… hence Rashi says, “And do not consider him to have sinned” thatyou may never shame a person (in the process of education.)

1. Simple Goodness

The Baal Shem Tov often favored the simple unlearned Jews even more than the great Torah scholars, as He said, “Within us all is an innate striving for G-d (a desire for truth and compassion…) however when the mind is full of knowledge, it often covers over this innate side; Whereas in the simple Jew who doesn’t know that much, but sincerely keeps the Torah and Mitzvos, says Tehillim etc. not only is this side not concealed but it is expressed and revealed! And this is very dear to G-d.”

2. Negative To Positive

1. Difficulties – G-d’s Love
   
   

The Holy Baal Shem Tov says that when G-d’s left hand is pushing you away, it is in order that His right hand can draw you close.

1. Life’s Meaning
   
   

Even if you cannot perceive what purpose you serve, you must realize that your life has a purpose as it is directed by G-d.

1. Faith
   
   

If we truly had faith that all would be good, it would be!
 
(As is known with the story of the Baal Shem Tov, that there was once a terrible decree that disturbed Him greatly but He decided to trust in G-d’s goodness, and it was averted.)

1. Difficulties – G-d’s Love

Fearing Divine punishment actually reflects G-d’s love, for it shows that He is willing to accept everyone (through repentance)!

One should be inspired to accept their problems joyously, and in this way, they eliminate their fears.

{Whenever you fear – think how everything is sourced in fear of G-d which proves that G-d cares, hence in actual fact you are dealing with His love.}

1. Negative to Positive
   
   

When something negative occurs, we should always announce: 
“All that G-d does, He does for the good!”

By finding the good in the bad, the bad then turns into good!

1. Dreams – Negative to Positive
   
   

Convert evil to good.

If a person receives a prophecy or a dream of something negative one must convert the negative to positive. For example, in Hebrew, the word Mes (death) can also be transposed into Tam (sincere.)

{In other words, Yirmiyahu the prophet was punished because He received bad prophecies but didn’t pray for the Jewish people. If one receives a negative Divine “download,” one must immediately spin it to the good.}

• Negative to Positive
  
  

Everything that occurs comes from Heaven, and in its source, it is a combination of letters. For example, the word “Tzarah” / “problem,” can be rearranged to spell “Tzahor” / a “shining light.”

When a person accepts suffering with joy, or finds the silver-lining in it, they rearrange the source code. The bad then turns into good.

• G-d
  
  

Just like the snail is within His shell – within all concealment / pain and suffering, G-d is also hidden there.

When we realize that behind everything is G-d, the issue gets resolved.

• Torah
  
  

When a person is going through a difficult time, they should focus intensely on their Torah study early in the morning, binding their soul to the Divine found within these holy letters.

{This will assist in eliminating the problem.}

• See Deeper

Both good and bad happen to a person. To explain this, the Baal Shem Tov gives the following analogy:
Once there was a king who became angry at someone, so he sent his messenger to summon them.
When the messenger arrived to call this person to come to the king, the messenger was angry at them.
The fool fears the messenger, while the wise person says, “I will go appease the king!”

The same example applies in the reverse. 
Once there was a king who was very happy with a person, so he sent his messenger to call them.
The messenger came to the person with great joy – the fool is so happy to find the king’s messenger happy that he rejoices with the messenger, while the wise person says, “I shall go to The Source.”

{In other words, if good or bad comes your way, realize it comes from G-d, and it is there to cause you to come closer to Him or thank-Him.}

• Divine Correspondence
  
  

It is possible to transform a situation by seeing the corresponding Divine aspect.

For example, if someone is unfortunately imprisoned, they could learn about the concept of “The Four” who give praise for their miracles (one of whom is a person released from incarceration).

A person who is ill can consider which of the supernal Sefiros corresponds to the limb they are suffering in (for example,  Chessed is the right arm).
By concentrating on the positive Divine aspect, we eliminate our suffering.

{For example if your right arm which represents Chessed / kindness is hurting, think abut how you can improve the aspect of kindness in your life.}

• Transforming
  
  

The great Tzaddikim take all distracting or any lewd thoughts and connect them to Their Source. (As Tzaddikim are always connected to G-d therefore any bad thought that comes to them is from a foreign negative source / another person’s animal soul.)

However, if one doesn’t know how to do this (as the Alter Rebbe says, this is primarily a task for Tzaddikim…) it is enough to know that everything comes from the combination of the two names of G-d, “Havayeh” and “Adnay.” (The former is higher, and the latter represents matters of this world. By knowing that even in the negative, its essence is G-d, we transform the negative to positive.)

{For example behind lust is love for G-d, and behind fear is fear of G-d. Knowing that everything is sourced in good, eliminates the bad.}

• Run To Do A Mitzvah
  
  

“You should make a light (Tzohar) in the Ark (Teivah”).

In Sefer Yetzirah, it says, “Three letters build six words.”

The word Tzohar (made of three Hebrew letters) has six combinations – five revealed, and one concealed.

“Run” (Haratz) – “Difficulty” (Tzarah) – “Desire” (Ritzei) – “Light” (Tzohar) – Oppressor (Hatzor).

Through running to say the words of Torah and Tefillah (prayer) which expresses our desire to do so, we transform the (Tzarah) difficulty of an oppressor (Hatzar) into Tzohar, a beautiful shining light!

The former darkness transforms into a great blessing!

{Run to do a Mitzvah.}

• Negative to Positive
  
  

When problems are upon us and they inspire us to do Teshuvah and transform our lives – we transform the problems into benefits.

• Dive Into Divinity
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov has a famous Torah teaching on the passuk (verse) “Come to the Ark.”

The Baal Shem Tov says that a soul comes into this world and becomes preoccupied with making a living through labor, and can become consumed by the demands of life.

The solution is “Come to the Ark.”

To connect oneself to the words of prayer and the words of Torah. (In Hebrew the word for “Ark” and “Word” are the same – Teivah.)

In the merit of the connection to the Divinity within these Holy-Letters one receives help in all they need.

• See It’s Source
  
  

G-d created the world through Din – Judgment, which is Tzimtzum / concealment.

The principle of Tzimtzum is a minimization of His Infinite Light so something finite can both be created as well as appreciate Him.

In every universe, the Tzimtzum / minimization took place to cause this.

In each universe, the Beings (such as souls, etc.) appreciate G-d according to their intellectual capacity.

When we have pain or suffering (G-d-forbid), this comes from the body, for the body is connected to the soul (our life-force).

When we realize that everything – everything – is created by the singular G-d and we love G-d (knowing that everything that happens to us is from Him) then we connect the Din (the level of the body and Tzimtzum) to the soul, which is happiness and life-force!

It is this that transforms the negative into G-d’s compassion (which evokes blessings).

The advice on how to contemplate this is the verse, “Love G-d your L-ord” (L-ord / Elokim refers to Din).

Take the negative and connect it to Havaye (which is the soul) by accepting it joyously.

{In other words, realize that behind everything is G-d and accept it with joy and it will transform.}

• See The Source
  
  

A Parable from the Baal Shem Tov:

Once there was a king who sent one of his servants dressed as a foreign king to test a country under his rule to see if they would agree to foment a rebellion.

Some people fell for the ruse, while others who were wiser thought deeper into the situation. 
Realizing it was all a trick they confronted the hidden servant.

The same holds true in life – as is well-known in the example of the king who hired a harlot to test his son’s morality (so challenges actually come from G-d for us to overcome them.)

When a person realizes that everything is a challenge, and that even within all of their pain is G-d, they then remove it.

The shell is peeled and the sweet fruit is revealed.

• See The Source

The Baal Shem Tov explains a great secret on how to turn bitterness to sweetness (suffering to delight).

One must find within the pain and suffering a source of goodness.

For in The Source, gevurah (din – harsh decrees) is complete loving-kindness.

Gevurah limits (the infinite expansion of G-d’s love, just like shades on a window, allowing an infinite light to be seen and felt by an observer.)

The purpose of these limitations is so that every person can receive the limited / specific amount of energy necessary for their survival and life. (Too much light / energy would “blow the circuit” – infinity in a finite world would cause the finite to be nullified out of existence.)

In addition, if all G-d did was give unconditionally, people could become (spoiled hence) sinful.

In this way we maintain our portion in the world-to-come!

In essence, it is all loving-kindness! 

Through finding the source in kindness, and accepting it with love, the problem returns back to its source which emanates from the positive of G-d.

And then the negative turns into positive!

Then the Dinim (negative occurrences) create a kal-vichomer (analogy) “If my source is complete kindness… I who am but a fraction of a fraction of my Source, must certainly be complete kindness.”

And so it manifests!

.

• Faith Transforms
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that though faith we connect Malchus, referred to as Ani, to Thought which is referred to as Ayin. (Ani and Ayin have the same Hebrew letters.) All bad then dissipates.

{Have faith to transform bad to good.}

• Negative Becomes Positive
  
  

G-d is not like a physical king for whom the instrument of destruction cannot be used as an instrument of construction.

G-d uses the same instrument!

As the Baal Shem Tov says, the very source of misery becomes a source of pleasure!

{Don’t allow negative occurrences to get you down for the very negative can become a great positive.}

• Negative to Positive – See G-d
  
  

Sometimes we find it difficult to serve G-d, and G-d-forbid also one can experience suffering or pain ☹ .

Instead of being in an expansive state, we are in a constricted state.

We should meditate on the words, “Asher Nishbati Bi-api…” “And I swore in my anger…”  namely that within everything is G-d – and this will sweeten the difficulty to joy.

{In other words, recognizing that bad also comes from G-d, will transform it to good.}

• Say The Baal Shem Tov’s Name
  
  

Saying “Yisroel Ben Eliezer,” helps to protect.  

{For added safety and protection say Yisroel Ben Eliezer.}

• The Hidden Hand
  
  

When a person knows that all negative occurrences are just G-d concealed, this causes all negative occurrences to cease.

• G-d’s Hidden Hand
  
  

Even in the greatest darkness and the greatest concealment, G-d says, “I am within it.”

• Behind It All..
  
  

When a person understands that even the darkness contains light, that suffering contains pleasure, and that G-d is behind everything, then though we cannot understand the suffering it gets removed.

The Baal Shem Tov would often say: “I fear greatly the Biblical (potential) curse, ‘I will doubly hide Myself…’”

The first hiding refers to a negative occurrence, but the second is that one forgets that behind everything is G-d.

{Never forget behind it all is G-d and this will transform the negative to positive.}

• There Is Always Blessing
  
  

“Behold your enemies G-d… behold your enemies shall be lost.”
When a person is cognizant that even during the evil there is a blessing, the blessing comes.

• Catalyst
  
  

When the bad becomes a catalyst for good (such as regret causing change) everything becomes good!
To the extent of the good of the level of the days of Moshiach.

{Use everything – all emotions etc. for good / G-d.}

• Silver Lining
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that we sweeten harsh decrees by finding the hidden goodness behind them.

When we find goodness and grace in a harsh circumstance, the kind element overtakes it.
When something bad occurs, do whatever you can to see something good in it, for then the good becomes extracted and the bad will disintegrate.

• Get To Essence
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that one should see themselves as “a nobody” and completely forget about themselves and pray for the Shechinah (G-d.)

Then a person raises themselves beyond time, to the world of thought, where all is equal, and from there, salvation comes.    

3. Chassidus

• Baal Shem Tov
  
  

The task of the Baal Shem Tov was to reveal G-d.  

• Baal Shem Tov / Alter Rebbe

The Baal Shem Tov revealed a path in how to serve G-d and created the ability to have Mesirus Nefesh (sacrifice) for this.

The Alter Rebbe widened the road of the Baal Shem Tov (so anyone can travel it) and had sacrifice (Mesirus Nefesh) to so do.

In simple words, The Baal Shem Tov showed us how we must serve G-d, and the Alter Rebbe made it attainable.

• Baal Shem Tov / Alter Rebbe
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov erected a ladder to Heaven, the Alter Rebbe taught how to climb it.

• Chassidim
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov as well as the subsequent Rebbes all were the level of and “reincarnation” of Moses.

(As the Zohar says, there is the reincarnation / revelation of Moses in every generation.)  

While the Baal Shem Tov lived, his Nara”n (lower three soul levels) were accessible, but following His passing, His Chaya, Yechidah (two highest) became accessible.

Every Jew who is connected to our Holy Rebbes, no matter their actual knowledge of Chassidus, has the capacity to be a great light in the strengthening of Judaism and Chassidus, and in putting into practice the Chassidic Minhagim (customs.)

{You can change the world!}

• Chassidus
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov and His Disciples, namely our Rebbes revealed the Torah of Chassidus which combines both the revealed and hidden parts of Torah with many explanations;  As well as revealing the inner and true intent of Torah and Judaism (character-improvement etc.) and awaken a G-dly fire in the heart of every Jew.

• Chassidus
  
  

The flame of the Baal Shem Tov eternally burns, but one must stand under its fire (to receive its warmth).

• Chassidus
  
  

The purpose of the revelation of the Baal Shem Tov and the Maggid was to pave the way for the revelation of the essence of the inner Torah through the Alter Rebbe.

(Similar to how the Forefathers paved the way for the essential Divine revelation through Moses.)  

• Hashgachah Pratis – G-d
  
  

When a person only learns Nigleh (the Talmudic studies, they can delude themselves into thinking that their brain is wise, hence as they become self-centered) they seek not the fulfillment of Torah, but rather to find leniencies in the law.

However one who studies Chassidus (the inner dimension / soul of Torah) sees Hashgachah Pratis, the hand of G-d in their life. 

• Spiritual Healing

Even prior to the Baal Shem Tov there were spiritually ill people, but they were unaware.

The Baal Shem Tov and the subsequent Rebbes wrote “medicinal books” describing the maladies and cures!

{As the Rebbe teaches, the cure to all the evil wiles of the Yetzer Hara is found throughout Chassidus.
Here are two “remedy books” based on Chassidus, “Kabbalah-Love – From Fear To Love” and “Meditations From The Tanya.”}

•  Share Chassidus  
  
  

For our generation, the final one before Moshiach, the Baal Shem Tov teaches us that it is Mitzvah to reveal the secrets of the Torah / Chassidus in order to “destroy the thorns from the bushes.”
 
{In other words to get rid of the kelipa (dark side).}

1.  Study Daily
   
   

Study Chassidus daily, whether a lot or a bit.  

• Chassidus = Sensitivity
  
  

The teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, continued through the Holy Rebbes, create sensitivity.  

{It states that three things work: “money” “mashkeh” (alcohol) and “Chassidus.” Money will make you nuts and if you have money but you’re not nuts you need some more : } (of-course today the Rebbe encourages us to do all in our ability to be wealthy for in our time we can use everything only for the good.)
Alcohol will make you drunk and if you had alcohol but are not drunk, you need some more…
And Chassidus will make you Eidel (a refined sensitive person, in contrast to an uncouth, cold or harsh.) And if your learnt Chassidus and you are not Eidel, you need to learn some more!}

• Elevating – Nitzoisois
  
  

Not only do we do things for G-d, for example, we eat to have the strength to serve G-d, but in everything we do we elevate the sparks of G-d. 

So when we eat, the intention is to elevate the sparks of Divinity in food – and this applies to every aspect of our lives.

{In everything we engage in, there are Divine sparks and when we use an object for the good, we elevate it.}

•  Spiritual
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that when the Jewish people spiritualize themselves and refine themselves through the holiness of Torah and Mitzvahs, we will consistently hear the voice of G-d speak to us as we heard at Mount Sinai.

{Particularly now in the early stages of Moshiach when it states “I will pour my spirit on all people” this teaching is especially relevant.}   

•  Good / Evil
  
  

I heard from my Master the question of the wicked priest, who challenged, “You believe no place is void of G-d… but if you deny idolatry (particularly the idol) it must be G-d is giving it life, so how does this reconcile?”

He replied, that just like a person has an excretory system to rid themselves of waste.

As such there is a system to separate good and evil.

This is similar to how it says, “G-d will take away all the energy and the good in the Satan, and the evil part will fall into the abyss.”

And this is the separation done by “The Knower of Hearts,” to separate between good and evil. 

This is what is meant “All the gods of the nations are idols / nothingness.”

{In other words, do not be too perturbed by evil, as one day it will simply be flushed out!}

•  Jew
  
  

The entire purpose of the Baal Shem Tov’s teachings was to reveal what a Jew is.

Beyond all the secrets He revealed, something that great Angels would “die for” is the revelation of the Absolute Infinite Place A Jew Holds In G-d’s Heart.

• Matter to Energy
  
  

The ultimate goal of the creation of spirit and matter, body and soul, is to convert the body into spirit – and this is what it says, “You shall live with it!”

•  Nigunim
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says that Chassidic melodies (the hauntingly beautiful, soul-inspiring Chassidic melodies) are one of the pathways of Chassidus.

{Learn and sing the Chassidic melodies – many are available on Chabad.org.}

• The Baal Shem Tov
  
  

The Alter Rebbe repeated in the name of his Master (the Maggid) “The grandeur (royal dignity) of the Baal Shem Tov was far more prestigious than the greatest Emperor, yet his humility was far humbler than even how a beggar who lives off a garbage dump views himself.”
  

This is the idea that the Divine Light / Oir Ein Sof is “infinitely high and likewise infinitely low.”    

Divine Connection

1.  Avodah – Altruism
   
   

Everything you do should be for G-d, without ulterior motives.
Even the smallest thing should not be done selfishly, but rather for G-d.
 
{In other words, all your motivations should be to serve G-d.}

1. Avodah – Always G-d
   
   

“I walk expansively.”

“I can go in the marketplace and streets, and speak to every person, because ‘Your Mitzvos I seek.’

Meaning, I only seek Yechudim (Divine acts) in this world, and the beauty and uplifting of the Shechinah.

I believe with complete faith that everything, small or large, is energized (coming into existence) from the life-force and will of the Infinite-Blessed-One.”

The Divine life-force is greatly concealed due to our many sins.

When man does Teshuvah (repents) he should believe that this great light and the sweetness and pleasure of the higher light will be revealed to him without the concealment of the Kelipah.

The energy of every act and soul, comes from G-d, therefore everything one does should be done altruistically for G-d.

Greet everyone with joy and a happy heart thereby creating Yechudim in everything big or small.

1. Avodah – Oneness

Number one, we must choose to be good.
 
Once one makes this choice, have complete faith that without doubt G-d fills every aspect of creation, and in all creations is the life-force of G-d.

Therefore, all loves and fears, and all other emotions come from G-d (for He is the source of everything).  

Even the negative in this world comes from G-d.  

As such, a person should never use their emotions such as love or fear, or honor, being victorious, etc. for anything besides G-d.

A person should think “This thing in the world that I fear or love…  where does the emotion toward it come from? The sense of awe or attraction… emanates from G-d!  He places these emotional stimuli even in bad things. For example, in wild animals or within negative lusts and desires. Therefore, all sense of fear comes from Him.

So why should I fear a little spark that fell into evil, for example, a wild animal?

It’s far better that I should connect this to the fear of G-d.”

Similarly, with love and other emotions – the goal is to extract the sparks, and transfer and transform them to their Source.  

Similarly when one speaks, do not think that you are speaking; rather the life-force within you which is your Creator, is speaking through you!

Through this, you elevate speech to its source – and in this way, all things are equal, for your friend’s speech also comes from G-d.  

And when you eat, your thought should be to take this energy and elevate it to G-d (through using the energy to serve G-d.) 

Likewise, in all other things, your thought process should only be to connect yourself to G-d Above.  

1. Avodah – Total Dedication

A Chassidic explanation on one of the Thirteen Principles of Faith.

The Baal Shem said:

“I, a Yid, a Jew – believe with complete faith.”

“I believe with total belief” – What does total belief mean?

Even if one were to cut off my head, hand, and foot, this is my belief!

“The circumstances of a body are not attributable (to G-d).”

A Jew who eats like a Jew, sleeps like a Jew, and most importantly looks like a Jew, in other words, looks not where one mustn’t…

This allows one to know G-d.

Desiring things of the body prevents one from knowing G-d!

“To Him alone, it is right to pray and to no other.”

“My aim in life should not be anything physical or material, but rather to be aligned with your Divine will.”

1.  Belief – Mechanism/s
   
   

Why do we say in our prayers, “Our G-d and G-d of our fathers?”

There are two types of believers!
The first has a strong inherited belief in G-d received from their ancestors.

The second is someone who researches truth and comes to acknowledge, reveal, and become aware that there is a Creator.

The benefit of the first is that due to their inherent faith they remain impervious to philosophical counter-arguments.

(No possible philosophical viewpoint could change their belief.)

However, the weakness of this first kind of believer is that their faith is based on others.

The benefit of the latter is that as the person has personally researched and discovered it therefore it is both dear and concrete to them.

Its weakness though is that another could bring contrary arguments, for if something is rooted in philosophy, someone could theoretically bring contrary proof.

The best is having both! A belief in which one relies on one’s Jewish ancestors, as well as one’s own discovery. (For this combines the strength of inherited and discovered belief.)

This is why we say, “Our G-d and the G-d of my fathers.”

We must both “Discover G-d” for ourselves, and have faith in the belief of our ancestors. The former is more personal, the latter more permanent.

1. Desire
   
   

When one comes to “know” G-d, all other desires dissipate.  

1. Divine Connection

All the wars and Machshavois Zarois (lustful or foolish thoughts) that are in this world are because Malchus (the Shechinah) is not connected to her beloved (G-d). Contemplating this one will ensure that their thoughts should be connected (to G-d, thereby connecting the world to G-d.)  

1. Connected Through Torah

A person cannot always be on the same level of passion for G-d (by nature as a flickering flame, we go up and down in our emotional feelings.)

However always stay connected to G-d through being connected to the letters of the Torah – for you can think Torah at all times. Even while speaking with others realize, that the sound of all letters are all offshoots of the 22 Hebrew Holy letters.

{For example “B” is from Beis etc. – as such you are always connected to the essential Holy Hebrew letters whether through thinking / studying Torah or even hearing the sound of speech.}  

1. Slippery Slope

“You will stray and serve false gods.”

If we detach from Diveikus (Divine connection) this leads to following other gods.

{Always remain attached.}

1. Always Be Connected

The verse states: “For My thoughts are not your thoughts.”

As soon as a person separates themselves (in thought or desire) from G-d, they are worshiping idols; as the verse states, “You will stray and worship false gods.”

Nonetheless “And my deeds are not like your deeds” teaches us, that a person who didn’t sin is considered as if he did a Mitzvah.  

{As the Rebbe teaches, Avodah Zara literally translated as a “separate-service” means anything done for selfish in contrast to G-dly reasons. (Of-course this doesn’t mean not be engaged in mundane things… as long as we do them with a higher purpose.)

Additionally the Baal Shem Tov is teaching us that not doing wrong, is also a great Mitzvah.}

• Scan Around

Sometimes a person must look in different directions to connect their thinking to G-d – as the coarseness of the body can prevent Divine awareness.  

• Stay Connected
  
  

A great principle:

Connect to G-d and simultaneously do something necessary in the home (like, say washing dishes).

Try to speak to someone while you remain connected.

This helps accustom one to stay connected in one’s thoughts to G-d even while they are speaking or doing physical things. 

• Stay Connected
  
  

The moment (“Visartem Va-avadtem Elohim Acheirim…”) we deviate from serving G-d, it is like serving idols; nonetheless, our Sages say, “If we don’t sin, this too is considered a Mitzvah.”
  

• Divine Awareness
  
  

“You will stray and serve false gods.”

We must never cease being attached to G-d.

The main aspect of faith is to realize that “all of my abilities and my life-force come directly and continuously from G-d.

He is the source of every ability and all life.

He is directing every part of my capacities.

If I cease having this awareness, I serve other gods.” (I consider that my capacity comes from elsewhere.)

• Connecting to G-d Within Mitzvos
  
  

Whenever one grasps “part” of G-d (such as through a Mitzvah) one grasps all of G-d!

And as Torah and Mitzvos come from G-d, therefore when one passionately does a Mitzvah or studies Torah (for the sake of connecting to G-d), one bonds completely with G-d.

•  Connecting To G-d Within The Letters

Connecting to the Divinity within the letters of prayer, according to the Baal Shem Tov, is one of the greatest mechanisms of achieving spiritual heights.  

Connection is the master-key and everyone can do it!  

• Passion = Connecting
  
  

When we pray and study Torah with passion, this connects our words with the words of G-d – our breath with the breath of G-d, and it is a deep attachment.

• You Are G-d
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that proper repentance / Teshuvah (attachment to the Divine source) is when we understand that The Divine Is Our Source!

{In other words, we are born into a perception of self-sufficiency – when we realize that our very soul / life-force is G-d, this is the ultimate return!}  

• Connect in Everything
  
  

A person who is a Tzaddik is always attached to G-d and therefore He is with G-d in everything that he does.  (“Bchol Dirachecha Da-aihu.”)

• Soul Connection
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov’s soul taught Him Torah.

It told Him that the reason He merited this was not due to His Torah study, nor prayer, but rather because He connected to the G-dliness within the very letters of Torah and prayer.  

• Always Connect
  
  

When one speaks to others, one should simultaneously be connected to G-d in their mind.  

During Torah study, one must concentrate on the concept they are studying (which precludes contemplating about G-d) but through this one is also attached to G-d.  

• Stay Connected
  
  

Even if one is in small (capacity – connection) one should still be somewhat connected to G-d (in their thoughts.)
 
For sometimes in Heaven, it is in a “small” state (za”h) however from a small state one can then come to an expansive state. 

For example a coal, though the flame within it may be small, but if you blow on it, it can quickly flare large… but if there is no flame within it at all, one’s soul will completely go out (or not be present…)

•  Joy
  
  

A person who is properly attached to G-d can see G-d within everything they see.

A person should continuously be joyous, especially when being attached to G-d.

As without joy, one cannot be attached to G-d!

• One Desire
  
  

To connect to G-d there mustn’t be any other desires separating you from G-d (the essence of a person is their desire/s.)

The Baal Shem Tov explains, that if you wish to attach two pieces of silver with glue, if there are no extra adhesives (say a sticker, etc.) on the silver, they will attach well, for the silver pieces are clean. (In other words, as long as your heart is pure from extraneous desires, your connection to G-d shall be solid.)

• All for One
  
  

Whoever attaches himself even to a part of G-d, attaches himself to all… and likewise, the ot  her direction.

Sefer Chareidim gives an example of this, if you pull a branch of a tree, you pull it all – for all the branches go in that direction.

• Divine Attachement
  
  

It is known that the main attachment to G-d is through a passion for serving G-d, and that one’s prayer and Torah study should be filled with love and reverence for G-d.

Through this, one can attach directly to G-d.

For the breath of your speech, attaches to the Divine breath. And your voice to His… likewise your thoughts to His.
 

As our Sages teach, “The Shechinah (G-d) spoke through the voice of Moshe.”

Due to His great holiness and attachment, He (Moses) was literally connected to His source, and it was as if G-d were speaking the words that came from His mouth!

• Divine Reaction
  
  

Due to our erroneous low self-image we do not serve G-d properly.

For we don’t realize that through our Prayers and Torah study we cause Divine light to descend into all the universes.

In addition the Angels receive their light (Divine sustenance) due to our Torah study and Prayers.

If we truly believed this, we would delight in our service of G-d.

We would be careful to say every letter of Torah and Prayer properly.

G-d eagerly awaits the words of Torah and Prayer coming from the Jewish heart, and kisses these words.

If we truly understood this, who wouldn’t be awestruck, that The Great and Mighty King desires the Torah and words of prayer of us lowly people.

We must realize that man is like a ladder whose feet are on the ground and head is in the Heaven. Every action we do, word we utter, causes an imprint in Heaven!

If we have this awareness we will ensure that everything we do is for the sake of G-d.

If however a person thinks, “Who am I that any of my actions should matter?  How can it be that what I do affect changes in Heaven and on earth?!” As such the person goes about willy-nilly as if they don’t matter.

In actual fact when you do good you cause a Divine cosmic reaction! If you are compassionate below you cause G-d’s compassion from Above, as it states, “Know what is above you.” In other words, “know that whatever your emotional state is below on earth, will be the disposition from Above.”

• Singular Focus

The Sifra teaches, “The Yetzer Hara From Your Heart Remove.”

Just as G-d is singular in the universe, your life should be singularly focused on Him.
 

This is a great principle!

A person should be singularly focused on serving G-d as the verse states, “G-d made it that (naturally) we fear Him (and go on the straight path) but people find for themselves crooked paths (divergent things to do.”)
 

From the many “brilliant ideas,” we become confused (as to the direction of life.)

Consider that everything that exists in this world comes from G-d.  

Likewise, everything that people do or create, from the power of their intelligence, actually came from G-d.

Even the smallest thing that occurs in this world emanates from G-d.

May it make no difference to you if something happened as you did or didn’t want it to, for as everything comes from G-d therefore it is good that it didn’t go according to your wishes!

Consider that everything, whether it is The Universe of the Sefiros / Spheres, The World of Angels, or The World of the Throne (presumably this refers to the worlds of Asiyah, Yetzirah, and Beriah) all are nothing – like a non-existence relative to G-d.

They all exist within the “vacuum” of His contracted light, which He contracted within Himself in order to make space for their existence.

They all were created by a single word (or sentence.)

So why should you chase any foolish pleasure within those worlds, for they are but a single sentence / word from G-d!?

It is far better to attach yourself higher in G-d-Himself who is the source and the main thing, and not to anything secondary.

This is the intent of the Zohar that writes, “Blessed are the Tzaddikim who know how to attract their hearts to the King Above, and not to this world – to attractions that will dissipate.”
(For all the universes are destined to be destroyed (or infinitely elevated out of the mundane.))

Always think to connect to G-d out of sheer love.  

Love G-d more than anything in this world, for everything good in this world comes solely from Him!

And think, “I always seek to give G-d Nachas (pleasure) and to constantly serve Him.”

Always have your thoughts connected to G-d above – and this explains the verse, “And from the Mikdash (Holy space) don’t exit.”

When you need to speak matters of this world, imagine that you are now going down from the Heavenly realm (like a person going from his home to the outside – whose intent is to return immediately – and while the person is out, he is constantly thinking about and anticipates when he will return.  

Similarly, should you feel about the higher realm… that there in G-d is your true home.)  

Hence even when you speak in matters pertaining to this world, you will return your thoughts to
G-d.    

• Diveikus – You’re Within G-d
  
  It is a very great thing when a person realizes that they are within G-d. 
  
  The whole universe exists only within the space of G-d! 
  
  This should be so self-evident to the extent that we need no reminders.
  
  You should see with your mind’s eye how the whole universe is in essence G-d.
  
  G-d preceded the universe, hence it is all within the space He created within Himself.
  
  You should be so connected to this concept that the main thing you see in the world is G-d – not the world, and that also there is a G-d.
  
  When one does this they blind the Kelipah (dark-force) that creates a separation between man and G-d through withholding the truth that everything is really G-d.
  
  G-d encompasses all reality and only via His constant giving does His energy flow into and hence enliven (create) every aspect of reality – as such we are always both within Him and dependent on Him.
  
  
•  Divine Consciousness
  
  

Sometimes you must look from side to side in order to channel your thoughts to G-d due to the coarseness of the body which covers the Soul.

• Torah and Mitzvos
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that the Holy Divine name “Yud – Hei – Vov – Hei” begins with a Yud.

(In Yiddish Yud and Yid / Jew are similar.)

This is because the purpose of the world is for the Jew – and in the letter Yud itself, we see how this must manifest. 

The upper dot / part relates to G-d’s intent (Torah and Mitzvos) and the lower dot / part relates to the Jew below, and when one fills their time and space (the body) with Torah and Mitzvos, the Divine intent is fulfilled.



Ego – Existence

When G-d made the world, all the energy would have returned back to where it came from (namely G-d), which would mean that the world (which is “e=m,” energy that pulsates continually into matter) would cease to exist.

Only when He made the Jewish people did it have staying power.

The ego in the Jew keeps the world in existence – but this is specifically when the Jew’s ego is only as much as is necessary to keep creation going ( to serve G-d.)

• Emotions
  
  

If you suddenly feel fear or joy, know that this is to rouse you to fear or rejoice in G-d, and similarly with other emotions.

• Elevating – Yechudim
  
  

There are connections (Yechudim) that are created through the speech of Torah, as well as the mundane speech one speaks.
For all is comprised of the Holy 22 Hebrew Letters.

{Words have the same sounds as Hebrew Letters (Beis / B…) So even when we speak regular words as it is sourced in the Divine letters they create Yechudim.}

• Focus on Reality
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov gives a parable: once there was a king who wished to test his son, he created a massive illusion of great walls surrounding the palace and announced that everyone is welcome to come see him.

But in-between every wall he placed vast treasures – in fact the closer you got, the greater the treasures became.

Most people got attracted to the treasures (hence distracted from the king) but the dedicated child went straight for the king and then realized that the entire fortress was an illusion.

Similarly, there are many false desires and fears.

This world is filled with G-d and Torah and Mitzvos, yet distracting thoughts (illusionary fears and pleasures) also exist.

One must realize that all these illusions are a part of the king (for there is nothing but Him.)

• Your True Home

When you need to think about things of this world, think that you’re temporarily going away from the Divine essence, like a person who’s leaving his home to go outside – but he’s planning on coming back immediately!

Always consider that The Divine Essence is your real home!

And even when you have to do things of this world, consider this as “outside of your home,” and then return to your Divekius / Divine attachment.  

• Transforming
  
  

When G-d made the universe, He concealed His infinite light, and all that was left was background radiation of the original light (so to speak).

This is a Yud / a point, and it is called Yud / 10, The Crown of Malchus.

And from Kesser Malchus the limited beings were formed whom seemingly oppose His will.

For His will is that the Honor of His kingdom should be infinitely spread – while the removal of His infinite light concealed the light.  

So why would He wish to conceal that which He wishes to reveal?

G-d’s will is that we should have free choice.

And one who truly knows and understands this will see that within the desire to remove His light is the hidden desire that people should have free choice and that they should choose to do good.  

And this is exactly how creation in this world occurred.  

The good was hidden and people were given a desire to fulfill physical desires – this is “the revolving sword.”

Objectively speaking this is the entire purpose of Creation.

When we look into the matter deeper, we realize that the purpose is to transform the negative (of this world) into a positive.  

All our actions should be according to the Holy Torah – only then will the evil disintegrate, and it will be transformed into good – and the Original Infinite Light will be revealed!

• Chochmah – Connecting
  
  

Whoever would like to connect to G-d should connect to the attribute of Chochmah.

• G-d’s Greatness
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example: imagine how minute a single letter (say Alef or A) is relative to your soul – the source of thinking.

(Your soul is the source of your emotions which then becomes the source of your thoughts. 

G-d, and hence your soul (for so He chose) is eternal! So, one letter relative to infinity is non-existent!)
 

G-d created reality with the Oir Ein Sof (one infinite Divine ray) but relative to G-d, this ray is non-existent.

• Jew = Spiritual Warrior
   

Every Jew’s greatness is that they are a spiritual warrior! 

1. Kabbalah

The Kabbalah is called the wisdom of truth which is referred to as the “secret.”

But if anybody can study and understand it, what is so secret about it?

The answer is that just like a person cannot explain to another the taste of a food if the other never actually tasted it… similarly, the essential nature of Kabbalah is not a wisdom, but rather an ability to attach oneself to G-d.  

1. All For G-d
   
   

When one is studying Torah, they are on a high level. When one is engaged say in chit-chat or mundane affairs, they are on a low level. The ultimate goal is to elevate – in other words, to do all for G-d.

1. Life’s Purpose
   
   

The beginning of our service is to elevate the entire world, especially the human, to the level that “G-d is your L-ord!”

{In other words, the first goal is to invite G-d to guide our lives.}  

1. Meditating Together
   
   

A person shouldn’t “meditate,” do Diveikus alone. 
He should have at least another in the room doing Divine attachment / contemplation, Diveikus – although each person is individually meditating / connecting.

But if one is constantly “attached” then just being in a house where at least there are others is okay.

1. You’re Never Alone
   
   

Once a king decided to test his son, so he created an imaginary but seemingly real river, large walls, and a ring of fire around the palace.

One person approaching says, “All hope is lost;” while the wise son says, “It’s impossible that my father who loves me doesn’t actually desire me!” He begins to swim toward the palace and then the walls and fire and river disappear.

{When you think G-d is far… all He really desires is for you to break the fears of separation, and dive into connection and then in fact you reach an ever greater level, realizing that the distance itself was part of the closeness.}

1. Divine Connection
    

The phrase “I will rest where I choose” can be understood based on the teaching in the Zohar that “a word of prayer or Torah spoken without love and reverence for G-d does not ascend Above into Heaven.”

In other words, sound and speech correspond to the male and female aspects of G-d’s name, namely the Vov and Hei of G-d’s name, “Yud-Hei-Vov-Hei.”

If one speaks words of holiness without reverence and love (namely the “father” / Yud and “mother” / Hei) one creates a separation (between the Yud-Hei and the Vov-Hei.)

The purpose of prayer and study is to elevate our words to their Source – from earth to Heaven.

Just as the world was created with the 22 letters of the Torah, we must elevate our speech which is also made up of letters, back to its source.

This occurs when we connect:

Our speech with “The Speech” (G-d’s.)

Our voice with “The Voice.”  

Our breath with “The Breath.”

And our thoughts with “The Supernal Thought.”

These four correspond to the four letters of G-d’s name.

If we do this, our speech soars Above to the source, and our words come before G-d, who looks at them. And with this, one’s prayers are answered.

For when G-d “peers down,” it is like giving from above to below. 

And when G-d peers, this causes the existence of all the worlds.  

There is no time Above, for in one-second sustenance comes from the “Well Above,” which continuously flows with goodness and kindness to give positivity to His creations – though the receiver must be worthy.

If we study the Torah or pray in this way, we become like a pipeline from the “well” above. This brings great sustenance to us and the world.

1. All From G-d
   
   

All comes from G-d, therefore whatever occurs we must be conscious of G-d.

Even what we forget comes from G-d (as such we can be conscious when we forget something, that this too came from G-d.) But if one forgets that he has forgotten, this is a truly sorry state.

{In other words if we lose the consciousness that everything – even what we forgot or didn’t get – also came from G-d, this is a very sad state.}  

1. Speech – Diveikus
   
   

Even when you speak to someone common words your heart must be filled with love and awe of G-d.

1.  Diveikus – Study Torah
   
   

Whoever wishes to connect to the Divine should connect themselves (through Torah study) to the level of Chochmah  (where G-dliness is.) 

1. Tehillim

The Baal Shem Tov says that a Jewish man or woman saying Tehillim with simple faith is the highest level of connection to G-d.

{Say Tehillim and connect to G-d.}  

• Thoughts – Good vs Bad
  
  

Every thought comes from one of seven categories (as we know there are seven emotions, and emotions cause thoughts – Love, Fear, Compassion, Winning, Sensitivity, Connection, and Humility.)

And in every emotion, there is a positive and a negative possibility (for example positive vs. negative loves / desires, positive vs. negative fears, positive vs. negative victories etc.)  

Whenever a thought comes to you, think about which side is it coming from?

If it’s from the negative side tell yourself, “How have I taken what comes from the pristine universe of thought and lowered it into the realm of excrement?!” In this way, you eliminate (the desire for it) and thereby elevate the thought to the level of Ayin.       

(There are different realms; the realm of negative emotions comes from the excrement, and the realm of thought is from where G-d “resides.”)

By having this meditation, you destroy that emotive thought.  

And then you should think, “If I can love this emotion / desire, then how much more so must I love, revere, honor, etc. My Dear Beloved G-d!”

And in this way, you return yourself to the world of pristine thoughts.  

• Diveikus – You’re Within G-d
  
  

You shouldn’t need to attach yourself to G-d – rather imagine that you are completely within Him!  

4. Divine Customs

• Chassidic Customs
  
  

The customs of the Baal Shem Tov are traditions from Moses. When Moses was in Heaven to receive the Torah, all the Angels and the holy Sefiros gave him gifts and customs, both general and specific.

The Baal Shem Tov had Mesirus Nefesh (sacrifice) to make these customs that pertain to the Jewish people become a part of the Chassidic tradition, and we will greet Moshiach with them!

• Chodosh
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov asked in Heaven while in a dream if one still needs to be careful to not eat chodosh. They replied, “When the Ba”ch passed, they cooled the fires of hell for forty days.”

This shows how great he was (and He writes that it is not an issue.)  

• Kosher, Shabbos, Mikvah

Eating kosher food, keeping Shabbos, and women going to the mikvah is what establishes the entire universe!   

• Melaveh Malka – Garlic
  
  

It is said in the name of the Baal Shem Tov that one should eat garlic during Melaveh Malka.  

• Mezuzah Case
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov taught that it’s better to not use a metal case for the Mezuzah. This is similar to the fact that for the Mizbeach / Altar (in Beis Hamikdosh) metal was not used (for the source of blessing / life should not be created with the cause of death / destruction; and in the Shemah which is in the Mezuzah its written “So your life shall be lengthened.”)  

• Mikvah

The Baal Shem Tov merited His incredible high level due to the many times He would go to the Mikvah!

•  Mikvah – Meditations

Males should ensure to go to the Mikvah every Friday (Erev Shabbos) before Shabbos.

One should do Teshuvah before going to the Mikvah.

When a person goes into the Mikvah, he should think while he’s inside that the name Adnay and Malchus is the secret of speech, and the name Havayah is Zeir-Anpin – the secret of voice.  

And the name Eh-yeh is the secret of thought.  

The roof of the Mikvah corresponds to the name Eh-yeh.

The four walls of the Mikvah correspond to the four letters of G-d’s name Havayeh. And the floor of the mikvah corresponds to Adnay.

And these three names together have the Roshei Teivois (acronym) of Yaboi”k – which is the Rashei Teivois of “Yichud,” “Brocho,” and “Kedusha.”  

And one should meditate to ask from G-d that you should be able to accept the holiness of purity of thought, speech, and voice.

And if one has these thoughts / contemplation, then as it says, “A Tzaddik can fall seven times to the ground, He will get up.” 

Even if you go backwards seven steps, G-d will forgive and heal you, and create a new bond with you that will never break!

And then to your soul will come a great spirituality.

• Mikvah – Men Daily

Action (for men): 

See to it that you go to Mikvah daily, especially when you are in need of Divine assistance. 

• Mikvah, Altruism, Joy

Three Principles:
 
Ensure that all your service to G-d is idealistic and not selfishly biased.

One must be exceptionally smart to achieve this very difficult objective.
 
As such, one must continually bear it in mind and not even briefly forget about it. (Namely to always serve G-d altruistically, and not selfishly biased.)

In addition, be careful to go to the Mikvah every day (this refers to men) and do the Mikvah meditations.

And in conclusion – distance yourself from sadness and happily serve G-d.

• Onion
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov was careful to not eat raw onion.

•  Tisha Bav
  
  

On Shabbos Chazon (the Shabbos before Tisha B’av) even if it occurs on Tisha B’av, it is our custom to have a regular Shabbos (in terms of good food etc.) At the third meal, it is our custom to eat with the whole family – and to eat fish and meat… 

Those who follow the way of the Baal Shem Tov so do.  

1. Faith
2. Faith
   
   

When one understands how poor human intellect is, one understands how rich faith is!  

{Faith connects you to the Infinite Wisdom of G-d while logic (even what you understand in Judaism – which means it has descended to your intelligence) is always limited.}

• Faith
  
  

Faith is the deep attachment of the soul to G-d.

• Faith
  
  

Once the Tzaddik Reb Pinchas of Koritz needed some help in His service of G-d, and He knew He needed to travel to the Baal Shem Tov for this, but didn’t have the funds which caused Him to feel down.

Suddenly the Baal Shem Tov arrived in His city, and started speaking and said, “The verse says, ‘Moses’s hands were held high in prayer.’ 

Sometimes a person may be lacking in their faith in G-d – the way to fix this is to ask G-d to grant you greater faith!” 

When Reb Pinchos heard this He became a renewed person with complete faith!

{Ask G-d to give you faith!}  

• Faith – Miracles
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said, “with the power of sincere faith, a Jew could place a piece of cloth down and glide across the ocean.”

• Faith = Everything
  
  

Always realize and be prepared (to see) that everything that comes to you, comes from G-d!  

• Faith – Miracles
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov didn’t use Sheimois (Holy Names of G-d that create miracles). He simply had such a deep attachment to and faith in G-d, that miracles would occur!

When He was young, His Master Achiyah Hashiloini (the Prophet) taught Him all the Divine Names so He could know about them. As He was young and wanted to test its power He used a Divine name to create a miracle and glided over the Nester River on a garment.
But He deeply regretted this and did Teshuvah for it His whole life.

His Teshuvah was complete when He needed to cross the river due to a life-threatening situation with an Arab antisemite, and instead of using a Divine Name, He “glided” across on His Gartel (belt, based on pure faith).  

{If your faith in G-d is absolute, so will be the miracles.}

• Faith – Parnasah (Income)
  
  

There are two important types of trust: 

There is the trust that “my livelihood is not the means which I employ, but the means only to catch G-d’s blessings through them.”  

And the trust that “G-d will grant me the means” as well.

{In other words, at all times we must know that G-d is or will be granting my livelihood!}

• Faith – Pray For
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov once told His disciple Reb Dovid to travel to Bessarabia and bring the highest standard of Kosher wine from there.

Reb Dovid went and had tremendous dedication to ensure that the wine was one hundred percent kosher.
On the way home – the roads were muddy, the wind was stinging, the snow was deep, and He had endless sacrifices to ensure that the Kosher wine reached His Master.

He also tried very hard on his way back to ensure that nothing  should cause it to become nonkosher (such as a Gentile taking from the wine).
 
As the culmination of months of work was about to be fulfilled, He literally was at the doorstep of the Baal Shem Tov and to His great horror a Cossack inspector, zealous regarding people smuggling in vodka, dipped his cup to taste the wine thereby causing it to become unkosher. Upon realizing that it wasn’t vodka he went off on his merry way.

Broken-hearted, Reb Dovid entered the Baal Shem Tov and asked, “Why after all my effort did G-d cause this to happen?!”
 
The Baal Shem Tov replied, “True you tried very hard… but most importantly you should have asked G-d to help you succeed!”  

{In every endeavor, firstly ask G-d to help.}

• Faith – Meditation
  
  

You should contemplate the following:

“G-d fills the entire universe and His Shechinah (presence) is with me constantly. 

It is very ‘nebulous’ and He is the Master of everything. 

He can do anything I desire.
 

Therefore, it only makes sense to trust in Him.”

• Faith – Trust
  
  

Once the Baal Shem Tov and His disciple were traveling in a desert and the disciple became very thirsty and said, “Rebbe, I am thirsty.” 

The Baal Shem Tov did not answer him. 
However, as it got to the point of life and death, the disciple once again said, “Rebbe, I need water and I am in danger of dying.”
So the Baal Shem Tov said, “Do you believe that from the moment G-d created the world He has already prepared water for you?” It took him a moment to calm down, and he said “Yes.”
 
They walked a little bit and saw a gentile carrying two large jugs of water. They paid him for some water to drink.

“Tell me,” asked the Baal Shem Tov, “Why exactly are you in this area carrying water?” 
“Well, my Master went crazy, and told me I must get him water from this particular well.” 

“You see,” the Baal Shem Tov told His disciple, “From the beginning of creation, foreseeing this entire event, G-d orchestrated it so that there should be a Master and he should go crazy, so that you should have water!”

{We can rely on G-d!}  

• Faith = Trust = Love = Obedience
  
  

Faith is Diveikus – meaning to G-d you are fully attached (in all that you do.)

(It is well-known that in the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov being attached to G-d is the main thing.)
 
Through faith, we come to Bitachoin, which is trust.

This is the ultimate goal.

We trust that in each and every circumstance G-d has our best interest in mind. This leads us to love G-d and fulfill His desires.

• Pray For Trust
  
  

If one needs to be punished G-d-forbid, their trust in G-d is removed (as the ability to generate positive blessings purely from trust in G-d’s goodness is absolute.)
As such one should pray that G-d grants them trust! 
This is why it states, “Abraham trusted, and this was considered a Tzedakah” – in other words, one’s wish is granted.  

• Pray For Trust

When G-d needs to punish someone, trust (in G-d) is removed (for one who trusts in G-d, as the verse states, is “surrounded by kindness!”)

Hence one must always pray for trust.  

•  Rebbe – Yiras Hashem
  
  

When one has awe of a Talmid Chochom (Rebbe), having awe of G-d is easy.  

• Torah Study – Remember G-d
  
  

Today when our minds are weak, even during Torah study, we must restrengthen our faith every once in a while.

{The Alter Rebbe teaches that every hour one should take a break during Torah study and remind oneself about G-d.}  

• Trust
  
  

If you wonder, “sometimes what I pray for doesn’t come to pass…” 

All prayers work, though some on a cosmic level.

In fact it could also be that the current circumstance is actually in the best interest of the individual.

• Trust
  
  

A great principle in life is know that whatever comes to you came from G-d.

Ask that G-d always sends you that which He knows is best for you.

Do not seek what others or your mind thinks is best – for what others (or you) assume is for your best may actually be to your detriment.

Cast all of your needs and matters to G-d (as the verse states, “Cast your issues onto G-d and He will take care of you.”)

• Trust
  
  

Your thoughts should be in the service of G-d; connect to G-d and rely on Him to fulfill your needs.  

•  Divine GPS
  
  

A great principle of life is “Give G-d your deeds and He will plan your thoughts” – everything you will encounter will come from Him.

Additionally, always ask G-d to send you what He knows is best for you (not what humans, including you, assume.)

What we think is beneficial may actually be harmful, rather as the verse states, “Throw onto G-d your issues” – in others words, seek but G-d’s direction in everything!

• Humility

• Amalek – Destroy
  
  

The main Mitzvah to destroy Amalek is to destroy our ego, which destroys Amalek (the nation which is just driven by ego).

{To destroy Amalek, what we need to do is destroy our own inner arrogance.}

• Arrogance
  
  

One of the Yetzer Hara’s tricks is to induce arrogance after doing good.

• Arrogance
  
  

When a pure person becomes impure, all that he does causes him arrogance.

• Arrogance
  
  

“Offer not any leaven nor honey in the ketores (incense) offering…”

Leaven refers to arrogance, which is based on narrow-minded (constricted) thinking, which causes judgmentalism.

Just as a child seeks to be big, the fool jumps to be first.
Our Sages teach, “Don’t offer this as a fragrance to G-d…” meaning don’t serve G-d from arrogance.

At the outset, one may approach G-d with arrogance, for a person must be self-centered to begin.
However when one is already within G-dliness, as in the inner Mizbeach (where the ketores was offered) one must not have any arrogance.  G-d does not appreciate arrogance – even a minute amount.

{You may have needed an ego to get to G-d, but you need no ego to remain.}

• Arrogance
  
  

“I heard from my Master (The Baal Shem Tov) a general life lesson:  If a person has an urge to shame someone, let him shame himself.
And if he has an urge to praise – best to praise G-d!”

• Arrogance

When a person is not pure, when they serve G-d – for everything small they do, they believe they should be greatly praised.

• Arrogance – G-d’s Help

Before the Baal Shem Tov passed, He told His young disciples that they should go find a new Rebbe.

They said, “How do we recognize a Rebbe?”

He replied, “You should ask the person how to rid oneself of Gaaveh / arrogance? If He gives you advice, leave.  But if He says, ‘G-d will help…’  then He is a Rebbe.”

• Arrogance – G-d’s Help

The Baal Shem Tov said the only way to get rid of arrogance is through G-d’s help.

{Ask G-d to help you rid yourself of arrogance.}

• Minagdim

There are two types of people: the first one is completely wicked.
He knows His Creator and intentionally seeks to rebel.
The second thinks that He is completely righteous, but this is actually a scam of the Yetzer Hara.
In the eyes of the world, He appears completely righteous.  Although He continually learns, prays, and self-restricts (or “self-inflicts”) it is all a waste of time, as to G-d He is not attached.

He knows not the first foundation of faith, which is to study and pray, and do the Mitzvos, only for the sake of G-d.

The completely wicked person can repent and turn to G-d with all His heart and soul, and ask G-d to show Him the light. 

The other cannot be helped, for He does not see G-d, His greatness, nor His service.

Since He considers Himself completely righteous, how will He come to repent?!

This is why when the Yetzer Hara convinces someone to sin, it makes Him think He actually did a good deed…! so that He shouldn’t repent.

{Beware of assuming you are completely holy.}

•  Avodah – Humility

If we think we are close to G-d, we are far!

But if we think we are far, we are close!

If we think we are distant from serving G-d, eventually we will be close.

The Tzaddik always thinks about serving G-d – and considers Himself deficient in His service – always recognizing how distant from G-d He truly is.

{This teaches us that if we are careful with our deeds, thoughts, and actions, the result is beautiful.}

• Great = Humble

Precisely because Moses was so great (the greatest…) He was likewise the humblest.   

***

The more one is aware of G-d, the humbler one becomes.

The Baal Shem Tov said, “When I have great wisdom, I know that I don’t comprehend even a single letter of the Torah and I haven’t even begun to serve G-d.”

• Holy = Humble

The holier one is, the humbler they are.

• Humble
  
  

Imagine you don’t exist in this world…  As such what difference will it make if people honor you?   

{We all inhabit – live within a time-space dimension, however it can be based on where your consciousness lies that you are in a different dimension (as the difference between the dimensions is literally perception of the infinity / existence of G-d vs. the “reality” of the time-space dimension one inhabits) so worry not what people in a lower frequency / perception of reality think.}

• Constant Humility
  
  

When a Minister is in His own home or office people give Him much honor… but when He stands before the King, as He is feeling humble, both He and His desires are non-existent.

You should be like this before G-d.

This is the meaning of the verse, “What (mah) does G-d desire from you?”  In other words, G-d desires that due to your constant awareness of His existence you should be in a state of mah / humility.

• Close = “Far”
   

When a person has a sense that they are complete in their Divine service, this is an indication that they have yet to begin!  

In contrast, Moses towards the end of his life said, “I have just begun…”

A Tzaddik (righteous person), the closer they get to G-d and understand His greatness the more distant from G-d they realize they are!  

• Humility
  
  

G-d cherishes humble people – to the extent that even when they are with poor people, they feel even poorer.  

•  Humility
  
  

Imagine someone who found an infinite treasure and was very excited, so they packed as much as they could take with them, nonetheless, they would be extremely sad by what must be left behind.

Similarly, though we may have found extraordinary treasures within Torah and Jewish mysticism, we know that we can never have it all…

{We must never think “how much I know…!” rather there is infinitely more to know!}

• Humility
  
  

If a person were to fast even from Shabbos to Shabbos, yet have even the slightest sense of arrogance… such as “Look at the great service I do!” this would place his entire good-deed in the hands of the dark side. 

Rather one should think that “Relative to the Holy Angels who serve G-d day and night continually my contributions are but a joke.

Who am I but a (creation stemming from a) smelly drop, destined to be eaten by worms.”  

•  Humility – Gateway To G-d

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example: Every lock has a key – the two are perfectly aligned. 

Similarly, every problem has a specific alleviation (this refers to Kabbalistic mechanisms…) but there exists a thief who simply breaks down the door. 

By properly humbling (breaking) our hearts, we remove any barrier between us and G-d.  

• Humility

If you have done much good – studied much Torah, grown, etc. think not, “I have done this…” rather Malchus did it. (Malchus is where G-d manifests, creating everything in our world).  

Otherwise, we take the Yud (G-d) out of the Ani from His name Ado-nay, and we are left with An – nothing.  

• Arrogance

“If man will hide in a hiding place, will I not see him.”

The Baal Shem Tov explains this as follows: If a person is egotistical, it’s as if G-d doesn’t see him.

• Humility
   

The Head of The Heavenly Yeshiva said “Whoever sees themselves as great is “a nobody” and whoever sees themselves as “a nobody” is great.”
 
If when a person begins their service to G-d they feel as if they are great (holy etc.) then even in later stages they remain “a nobody.”

When one begins service to G-d the main thing is to realize / sense, how little you know!

• Humility

The soul studies Torah from G-d in The Heavenly Academy and yet G-d sends this soul to earth, for in addition to the study of Torah on earth which one must learn, the goal is to change the Ani (I / ego, even based on Torah scholarship and good deeds) into Ayin (“nothing,” humility, lack of ego).

Even one who is great in Torah study and good deeds (Ani) must cause themselves to become Ayin (humble) by realizing that relative to the true simple sincerity of the humble sincere Jew, you are a “nothing.”

• Humility

The Baal Shem Tov revealed that a Torah scholar should feel humbled before Jews who read Hebrew with errors. For their prayers come from true sincerity and wholeheartedness, which is infinitely greater to G-d.

• Humility from G-d’s Love

The goodness that G-d gives us causes us to be humble. Because we think, “How can I have the chutzpah to sin against G-d!? when He gives me so much good!!”    

• Humility

Once there was a king who wished to live forever, and they gave him a remedy that he should distance himself from arrogance. 
However the more humble he conducted himself, the more arrogant his heart felt… “For he’s such a great king, as well as being so humble!”

Then his Master came to him and told him that he should conduct the Kingdom in a manner that outwardly he acts majestically while inwardly he should be truly humble. (He showed him a toilet which comes from man.)  

{Sometimes to do good you need to have an outward aura, but inwardly you need to be humble – though as the Rebbe teaches, humility is not low self-estimation, rather realizing your only ability / power comes as a result of G-d.}

1. Humility And Confidence

Another version – The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a king who wanted to live forever, and all the doctors said that this is impossible.  But one man came and said, “I will heal him, by showing him the eternal life.” And he told him to choose the way of humility. As such, when the King came to ride in his Royal carriage, he ordered that the carriage should ride in front of him and he would walk behind it.
 
And the man said to the King, “This is not the correct path.  Sit in the carriage… The greatest difficulty is being truly humble in your own heart.”

{In other words one must conduct life confidently as one is a servant of G-d yet within oneself be humble.}  

• Humility

If you perceive that your Divine service is greater than another’s… don’t let this cause you arrogance.  

•  Don’t Argue

Another great principle is that if people mock your service to G-d, don’t argue with them in any way, so you don’t fall into hate nor arrogance​​​​​​ G-d-forbid.

Our Sages teach “Silence in the face of mockers leads to humility.”

• Humility

It says in Proverbs, “Better a beaten servant, than an honored person missing bread.”

The sign that we are serving G-d is when we consider ourselves “beaten” (“a nothing”), but if you consider yourself “honorable…” you are “lacking bread” / Divine blessing.

• Humility = Blessings

G-d is your shadow – He behaves the same way you do. If a person behaves arrogantly (aloof, “higher”) so does G-d; but if a person behaves with humility, G-d humbles Himself to fill one’s needs.

{Be humble to receive Divine blessings.}

•  Humility

Moshe Rabeinu felt that all that He had achieved in Avodas Hashem (service of G-d) was merely the beginning!  

{Feel not complete, rather as you are beginning your journey.}

•  Humility

Before He passed, The Baal Shem Tov said that a person should imagine He hasn’t even begun to serve G-d! and His previous service of G-d was tainted…

When a person can humble themselves, then (and only then!) will they be able to beat the evil wiles of the Yetzer Hara.  

• Humility

A person must be very careful that his service to G-d does not cause him arrogance, and that he considers himself the least…  

• Humility

A person should be very careful that no matter the service of G-d one attains, one should always consider themselves lower than the lowest.
 
In this way, they remain connected on high.  

1. Humility

Never think you are better than another, as YOU serve G-d… for this is the reason that everything and everyone was created!

You and the worm have both been given (relative) intelligence, and the worm serves G-d with all his mind and effort, so in what way are you better?!  

In fact, a human is also called a “worm,” as the verse states, “I am a worm and not a man.”

Had G-d not given you extra intelligence, your ability to serve Him would be equal to the worm.  

If you are no greater than a worm, how much more so another human!

Consider yourself as a worm or another small insect. These are your counterparts in this world.

For everything and everyone is a creation and only has the power to serve G-d to the extent of the capacity G-d has bestowed.  Always keep this in mind.  

1. Humility

Consider that the Divine speech, the level of Malchus is what is talking in (through) you.

Now this level created every living thing (hence how awesomely great is it!)

Now if the level of speech is great how much more so is the level of thought!  Consider your thoughts coming from this level.

This idea should create in you great humility.
 

1. Humility

One should act humbly / secretly so others know not that they are pious. 

1. Humility

When you say words of Torah in public, keep in mind that your goal is to honor and spread Kedusha (holiness).  

1. Humility

When you study Torah, do Mitzvos, and pray – do not think that you are doing this, but rather that the Shechinah is.  

{In this way we remain humble.}

1. Humble = Whole

The Baal Shem Tov said, “something that has no surface area cannot break.”

{In other words, if we have no ego, arrogance, and are humble we cannot be broken – in fact the larger our “surface area” the more likely the breakage.}  

1. Humility

One must understand that there is infinitely beyond our mind.

{The Rebbe teaches, a healthy mind known there is infinitely beyond it. The Baal Shem Tov teaches that whatever we can understand is merely from (the lowest of G-d’s realms) Malchus.} 

1. Arrogance

Any form of arrogance is very serious – all self-bias is due to arrogance. 

Every thought is a complete Being / Entity.  And through an arrogant thought, one banishes the feet of the Shechinah (G-d’s presence).  

1. Humility = Altruistic
   
   

Whatever you do, do it only to give pleasure to G-d.
Even if you serve G-d to give yourself pleasure, this too is selfish.  

1. Humility – Bad To Good
   
   

Whenever a negative event, even something minor occurs to a person, they should attribute the cause of this due to their sins; and when this humbles them and they repent then their sin is forgiven (however a person who feels that everything is based on “my power…” this is an exile mentality vs. Moshiach stage when we will see how everything comes from Hashem / G-d.) 

• Humility
  
  From false humility, namely being proud of one’s humility… and the desire to show others that one is humble, the Yetzer Hara slaughters the person. 
   
  (In other words, this causes their spiritual (temporary) annihilation.)  
  
  The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of such false humility: a person had all positive qualities except for the fact that he was arrogant, so people told him that he was perfect except that he needed to work on this one last thing. He then worked on himself to become humble, and one day someone mocked him and he retorted, “You nobody, I have all qualities, including humility!”
  
  {In other words, when we are arrogant we lose our rationality, hence our ability to rationally assess ourselves and improve properly.
  
  It also pays to mention that a person came to the Mitteleh Rebbe complaining that they were worried that they were becoming arrogant. He replied that this fear slaughters the person – in other words, focus on good and following G-d, not if you are humble or not…}  

•  G-d is Humble

The Baal Shem Tov queries the verse “G-d the king, wears pride…”

Doesn’t this contradict the statement of our Sages, “Wherever you see the greatness of G-d you see His humility!”

He explained that this is exactly what the verse is teaching, namely “G-d’s greatness is only worn for the sake of conducting of the Kingdom;” within Himself, G-d is only humble.  

{Assume not G-d-forbid, that G-d is arrogant.}

• Holiness = Humility

Holiness is ultimately humility and low self-estimation. Even a drop of arrogance poisons.

• Humility and Action

If you desire to do any Mitzvah (good-deed etc.) just go do it! 

Do not let the Yetzer Hara connive you into thinking that this is a great thing and therefore it will cause you to become arrogant.  Even if it tries to convince you, just do it!
 
But be careful, for if you do find it making you arrogant, push the arrogance away!

You will certainly end up doing it (or continue to do it) without any arrogance.

As our Sages teach – when one begins doing something (such as a Mitzvah, studying, etc.) for personal gain eventually one does it altruistically.

Do as many Mitzvahs as you can, and G-d will assist you to do them without any biases.

But try to push away arrogance on your own.

{In other words – the main thing is to do good and work on humility afterwards.}

•  No agenda

If a person has no agendas (neither positive or negative, just simple truthfulness and sincerity…) this leads to all the greatest spiritual levels. 

Even humility for the wrong reason is better than condemning another for the right.

• Shechinah Humility

Consider yourself poor… speak with a humble pleasing voice, like a poor person.
 

And always consider your thoughts to be with the Shechinah – think only how much you love her and she in turn will love you.

Constantly say in your mind, “When will I merit that the light of the Shechinah upon me shall rest.”  

•  Humility – The Baal Shem & Ar”i

The last words of The Great Holy Baal Shem Tov before he passed was, “G-d, Master of all worlds, ‘Lead me not to the feet of arrogance.’”
 
Similarly, when the Holy Arizal’s soul departed, he said, “Protect me from arrogance.”

One cannot begin any true service of G-d if one’s soul is consumed by arrogance, and sin of the heart.

• Humility = Wisdom

A humble person seeks wisdom but an arrogant person (being so filled with one’s own “knowledge”) seeks not.

• Humility and Boldness

Tzaddikim constantly fluctuate between the state of arrogance and humility – for in order to incentivize oneself to do something new, particularly an entirely new service, one must have a trait of boldness.
 
Nonetheless, once one does this new thing (or while doing it) one must do so with humility.  

• Humility – Parah Aduma

The Baal Shem Tov was asked about the Parah Aduma (“red heifer”).

“Where can we find in it a hint (a lesson) in Divine service, as all of the Torah continuously applies in the realm of inspiration?” 

Furthermore it was only done once in a while, and it caused the person who purified the other to become impure themselves, which is a contradiction.

He explained that this is a lesson in the trait of arrogance.
 
One needs the arrogance to begin serving G-d, for to begin with everyone is self-serving.  As such this drive is important as it leads one to serve G-d (albeit for personal interest).

Nonetheless, after one starts serving G-d, then we must ensure we do so with complete humility.

The same applies when you seek to do more good, for the Yetzer Hara will cynically and slyly try to dissuade you by saying “Who are you to do something so important?”  One must uplift oneself by saying “Why the whole world was created for me?!” (as our Sages taught us…)

Then as you begin serving, go back to humility (“I am nothing and G-d is everything.”)

• Peace

A great principle is: Even if people condemn you for your spiritual service in prayer or other things, don’t retort in order to not come to arguments nor arrogance which causes us to forget our Creator.
 
Our Sages teach, “A person’s silence leads them to humility.”  

• Humility – Power

To a deep person, power is painful, as they see themselves unworthy.  

•  Pride

If you do a great Mitzvah… study lots of Torah or pray with great concentration, do not take pride in your achievements – rather realize this was the Shechinah working through you.  

• Sincerity

If our holiness is a pretense… a way of looking good, we are very far from G-d.  

•  Truth = Sincerity

Everyone must know that not all people merit to come to truth, quintessential truth, unless one first really acquires the trait of humility. Namely seeing oneself truly as nothing, to the ‘nth degree; to not consider oneself important at all, as Moses said, “We are nothing.” 

See with your mind’s eye that “really there is nothing I have to be prideful about.” 

Pride (arrogance) is opposite to truth.

Truth is humility and feeling unimportant, while arrogance is a lie.

And this has already been dealt with at length in all the ethical works – however a fool who doesn’t understand, fails to realize their own issue.

And this unfortunately makes it impossible for them to realize the truth.

Such a person is distant from G-d whose seal (covenant) is truth.  And he is distant from the Torah, which is a Torah of Truth.

G-d says, “I and such a person together cannot dwell.” 

And it states, “Whomever is arrogant is as if they worship idols.”  As it is written, “G-d hates a haughty heart.”

This is especially as arrogance is a false reality. 

And the verse teaches, “A person of falsehood cannot stand in front of Me.”

However one who in their own estimation is like nothing – this person is close to G-d and His Torah. 

As the verse states, “To him I will gaze, to the humble-hearted.” 

And this is also hinted to, when the Sages taught, “When one is humble, G-d can dwell within them.”

Then one achieves the quintessential truth. And everything one does is true, and it elevates to G-d!

{Be truthful, sincere, and fair.}

• Humility

If you pray and study with great devotion, think not that “I did this…” rather, this was done by the Shechinah / Malchus which is called “I” (the Divine I) from the name of G-d, Ado-nai.

However, if you don’t (have humility) you remove the Yud from Ani, and all that is left is “A-n” nothing.
  

7. Life

• Faith – Law of Attraction
  
  

We exist wherever our thoughts are, as such continually having faith in G-d evokes the realm of G-d’s protection.

 
However, if a person is constantly worried about G-d’s wrath or retribution this likewise (evokes G-d’s judgment.)

{In other words, work on constant faith and it will manifest blessings.
Always believe and realize G-d just seeks to bless you!}

• Avodah – Be Careful

A person is always fluctuating – it is impossible to remain in one spot.

Some descend into this world with her challenges and elevate it; others descend and fall.

• Baal Shem Tov

The Baal Shem Tov wasn’t beyond our reality, rather He was in our world and understood our world. He saw G-dliness in our world.

There are two types of Divine names:  those that are merely a reflection of the Divine light,  and those that contain within them the Divine (similar to the letters of Torah).

The “Baal Shem Tov” is so called, for He was “a Master of the Divine name” – in other words, could channel G-d.

• Balance – Kind & Strong

There is no such thing as kindness without strength, for it quickly dissolves.

Nor is there such thing as strength without kindness, for that is simply evil.

{We must be kind & strong.  Kindness without discernment, as we see in permissive cultures, leads to anarchy and then destruction.  While strictness without kindness is cruel, hence the balance – which is using both qualities when appropriate.}

•  Balancing Emotions

A great principle is our desire should be to connect to the essence of G-d, not to the emotions. For example, one who wishes to connect to the emotion of Chessed / love, may lack restraint, for in essence all emotions are one.

In their expression however, they are separated.  Goodness and kindness may require sometimes giving, and other times withholding.

Generally, the emotion of love causes an expansion of self and the desire to give to everyone.

The problem with this is that if one is connected to the expression of love, they may fail to distinguish between appropriate and inappropriate giving and give to everyone whether they are good or evil.

The idea of Chessed and kindness is giving,  and if a person without restraint gives to everyone, whether monetarily or intimately, they can be debased even if they also do good.

The main thing is to be attached to the essence of Chessed namely goodness. This minimizes giving to the wrong people / places.

This can also be in the case of Gevurah – harsh discipline. For example, if the Beis Din (Jewish court) would execute a killer for a capital crime, this would eliminate the evil this person gave to the dark-side and allow him to enter Heaven.

In every circumstance, one must push away the dark side of the emotion and use it only for good.

• Foundation

The verse says, “Behold darkness covers earth,” and, “All sins are concealed through love.”

The main part of a building is the foundation. 

If the foundation is off, so will the building.

The same is true regarding a person: if a person’s foundation is off, such as a person who is narcissistic, believing “they are the best and all must follow them,” then everything they do gets tainted.

However, if a person’s foundation is good, such as love, then even the negative can be positive.

•  Bathroom
  
  

There is a law that one may not hesitate or “hold it in” when one needs to go to the bathroom, as this causes big spiritual problems.

• Blessings
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says that saying Tehillim fervently, going out of your way to help another whether for their physical or spiritual needs, and love of one’s fellow, are the master-keys to unlocking the Heavenly storehouses of health, salvation, and wealth.

• Challenges / Obstacles
  
  

Sometimes G-d will make life challenging (or to do good  challenging) for He seeks to reward us.

{Don’t let challenges seem difficult – push forward and they will disappear.}

• Charity – Mikvah
  
  

It is known from the Baal Shem Tov that there are certain Mitzvos in which the intent doesn’t really matter. One of these is the Mikvah – for if a person has the right amount of water covering them, even though they were not intending it, they become purified. The other is charity, for the purpose is not so much the reason you are giving, but the actual giving.

As we know, even if you lose money and a poor person finds it (in a permissible way, say a dollar bill on the street, which has no rightful claimant and therefore can be taken) it is considered that you have done the Mitzvah.  

• Charity (Bad to Good)

Just as in the supernal Sefiros, there are expansive and diminished states, similarly regarding our possessions.

If we find (say an asset) diminishing, we should give money to charity (particularly if we can give the value of the asset to charity.)

• Chassidim – Global Change

The Chassidim who follow the Rebbes transform the world!

They may not have the same knowledge as the Rebbes, but they have the power and ability to transform the world.

• Consciousness – Expansive (Contracted)

68. We are in a small-minded state when our service to G-d is not from joy but “kabalois oil” / obligation.

69. Let’s understand what is small versus expanded consciousness.  

When a person sits to study Torah but his mind is not with him… this is small.

But when one studies, understands, and enjoys… this is called expanded (Gadlus). The same applies to prayer and every Mitzvah.
 

70.  One can be in either a “small” or “expanded” mindset; when a person realizes they are in a “small” mindset, this itself leads them to expand.

Unfortunately, there are people who don’t know they are in a small-mindset.   

Sometimes G-d will take a person and cause him to fall from his high level via other people or situations as this is in their interest. (Presumably, so they can later ascend higher.)  

• Consciousness (small to expansive)

“Take pleasure from the impure to the pure.”

Sometimes a person serves G-d with a contracted-mindset. And later he serves in expanded consciousness.  

As such the pain of the contracted-mindset becomes the pleasure of expansion.  

• Consciousness (small to expansive)

After we go from constricted-mindset to expanded consciousness – we elevate all the deeds, prayer, and Torah that we did in the constricted-mindset.  

• Love / Fear

We should place our pleasure in Torah and Mitzvos.

This is like someone who made an unexcepted windfall (say “won the lotto”) the pleasure from this would cause that he would cease feeling pleasure from food etc. (as this new pleasure would be overarching.) Similarly, our great pleasure in G-d should cause that we don’t feel pleasure in physical matters (and the bit that we do – as this is how the body functions, is o.k.)

We should despise the pleasures of this world and reserve our desire for G-d.

Furthermore, we must place in our hearts the true fear of G-d.

For example, if you traveled to a palace, you would feel a fear, awe, and reverence as you enter; as such how much more – infinitely more so! – should you feel when speaking about the King of Kings! 

Anyone connecting to G-d should also feel a palpable reverence – and this holy fear eliminates all physical fears.  

• Desires = You

A fundamental principle that the Baal Shem Tov taught is that wherever your desires are is who you become.

He showed a vision to His disciples of a Rabbi who was eating on Shabbos meat (and enjoying it) and they saw an ox eating (for where our desires are, is who we are.)

• We’re Ascending
  
  

Sometimes a person falls from their level of Divine attachment. This is because G-d sees that this is necessary for the person. Other times the world causes this fall, however, the fall is always to have a greater subsequent ascent.

{We are always going up!}
 

• Your True Voice

You should see in yourself that the Heavenly speech speaks through you. And without it, it would be impossible to speak.

Similarly, your thoughts are coming from “the world of thoughts” (Divine thoughts.) 

You are like a Shofar. That which comes out of you is the voice that was put in, and if the blower stops… no voice will come out. 

It is only through the Divine realm of speech and thought that your speech and thoughts emanate.  

• Transforming Emotions

There are times when one of the primary emotions will be in the world (so when the emotion of love is being drawn down, the Kelipah uses it for lust – this is a time to see the holiness of this emotion, such as love for G-d or fellow man.)
 
When the attribute of Tifferes / “beauty” is expressed in the world, foolish people will begin boasting. 

But a wise person will see the foolishness in that, and use it for spiritual goals.

{When we see lust based “ideologies” we should think how the source of everything is the Love for G-d.}  

• Balancing Emotions

The main thing is to connect to the essence of the emotions so Chessed (kindness / love) is a self-expression, as such a philanthropist who may have a big heart could likewise allow great sins (such as infidelity etc. – this is because the expression of love is unmitigated.)

As such a person must go the essence of the emotions namely Divine (the source of all emotions.)

As we mix in the Divine will, this mitigates self-expression and circumvents evil.

Conversely, even a person who is judging should not be doing so to G-d-forbid harm, but to help. (In other words, not expressing anger, but encouraging improvement.)  

• Journeys
  
  

The reason Jews were spread to the four corners of the earth, or occasionally a Jew travels to far-flung nature, is that the deep Divinity within them purifies that location although the Jew themself may not be consciously aware.  

{Wherever you go, it’s not that you went there, but were sent! for a positive reason. In fact The Rebbe teaches that as primarily after the holocaust Jews settled everywhere, and used the language and customs of that locale to create Shuls etc. as such we have concluded Avodas Habirurim and are expecting Moshiach NOW!}

•  Free Choice
  
  

How can there be free choice if G-d knows what will be?
 
The answer is that a person has the free choice to either follow what G-d knows he will do, or follow the wish of G-d, such as keeping Torah and Mitzvos (this then will create that the person switches from “G-d’s knowledge” to “G-d’s desire.”)

{Just as a parent may be aware of the choice of the child but hopes the child will choose wisely.}

•  G-d – About

In G-d’s name “E-l,” the Alef (the first letter which numerically is 1) represents the Creator, and Lamed (the final letter which numerically is 30) represents the three dispositions He uses:

1. Kindness (love)
2. Strength (discipline)
3. Compassion (discernment).

• Life = Growth

The Baal Shem Tov gives an awesome example from a winding stairwell for the mechanism of life, which is continued growth.  

When you are at the bottom of the stairwell, you can see the next level. But as you start ascending, because the stairwell is circular, therefore you are simultaneously closer to the next level, though you cannot see it.  

The concept this teaches is that in life we are in an ascending “stairwell.”

Whenever we are on the “bottom step,” G-d has a vision for a better future (see Sefer Hasichos 5752 Ki Sisa). And then in order to fulfill this vision a necessary “darkness / concealment” of the plan in order to implement it occurs (for example, you may go to a country where “serendipitously” you meet your spouse or learn a lesson or help someone, etc.) And as this mission is accomplished, the next ascending step of our life will unfold.

• Growing

A man once asked the Baal Shem Tov, “Why is it that when I am meditating and feel connected to G-d, I suddenly feel distant?”
The Baal Shem Tov explained that this is like a father getting his little boy to walk.
First, he stretches his hands under the little boy to give him the confidence, and as the boy approaches his father the father backs away (all the while the hands are under the little boy…) for eventually this teaches the child to walk.

Similarly, when we get close to G-d, G-d will create times of distance – as the yearning for more, keeps us growing.

9. Just like a father getting their son to walk first holds his hands, and then when he learns to walk on his own let’s go – first G-d helps inspire us, but then let’s go (which can be painful…) but of-course the purpose is so we can now serve through our own initiative.

Note 6

The Baal Shem Tov explains that just like a father getting his little boy to walk will slowly but surely draw backwards, so His child can learn how to walk even better, oftentimes G-d feels removed, so we continually increase our bond.

•  You’re Growing

“I asked the Baal Shem Tov who I saw in a dream – why is it when I first began the Chassidic path, learning from Tzaddikim (Rabbis / masters) I had great growth in my Torah and service of G-d, yet these days I feel my service of G-d is ‘every day the same?’”

He replied “This is like a child who goes to school and begins to study the Alef-Beis or Siddur (basic prayers) Chumash…

Now when one begins, every day seems like an entirely new story!

However when one masters the language and learns more, it would seem that one’s progress is limited, while in actual fact while the child is dealing with basic beginner stuff the progress is little, but eventually dealing with complex stuff, every addition is very great.”

{You may not always feel like you are growing, but you are!}

• Hearing G-d

The Baal Shem Tov said that everything that a person sees and hears is a specific lesson from G-d in Avodas Hashem (bettering oneself).  

However, one must actually comprehend what the lesson is.  

This comes about through “our soul teaching us.”  

“Our soul teaching us” refers to how one’s mind becomes illuminated, and we become aware of the lessons that can be derived.

The Baal Shem Tov says that the most direct path to having “our soul teach us” is a. to recite Tehillim with passion. b. To help a fellow Jew not only monetarily, but physically. And c. to have sacrifice for Ahavas Yisroel – love of one’s fellow.  

•  Getting Heaven

“Through this the maiden would come to the King.” The Baal Shem Tov teaches that “this” represents the pillar (elevator) that takes one from the lower to the higher Gan-Eden.  

This is achieved through fulfilling the Mitzvos, which are the 620 Pillars of Light.  

{In other words, by doing the Mitzvos we merit to elevate in Heaven.}

•  Who Is A Jew

“You are G-d’s children.”

“These are the children of Abraham; Abraham gave birth to Isaac.”  

But Abraham had also Yishmoel? The true meaning of being a Jew is that one receives a Divine soul.  

• Jewish Activism
  
  

Any single word uttered from any Jew’s mouth, from the greatest Tzaddik to the simplest whether man, woman, or child, if it is uttered for the sake of strengthening Judaism – it is like a precious diamond!

•  Jews
  
  

Every single Jew is as worthy as the greatest scholar.
 
It states, “You are children to G-d;”  Just as it states that “Yitzchok was Abraham’s child” for his face was similar to his father’s, similarly Jewish people mirror G-d’s qualities, namely compassion and loving-kindness.

{We are intrinsic diamonds!}

• Compassion vs criticism
   

There are two types of rebuke – one focuses on the evil others do.

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a king whose son left the palace and became involved in lowly behaviors, such as theft.

Two people then came to the king to report this.

The first came to tell Him how low the prince became. This roused the king’s anger and He banished him. The other came with tremendous sadness for the king as His son had fallen so low.

This caused the king to do all in his power to restore His son.  

{Our goal is never to criticize but to uplift, help, assist, and improve.}

131 Kesser Shem Tov

• Kabbalah
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov, referring to a cult that unfortunately left Judaism, said, that this happened because they studied Kabbalah without wisdom and fear of G-d – hence they took the spiritual concepts and saw them as physical.  

Note 56 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• You Get What You Give
  
  

Once there was a King who would go to paupers and distribute money and see how they were doing.

And one of them would always say, “Whatever someone does, he does for himself.” This angered the King very much, as he felt the pauper to be ungrateful. So the King gave him a chicken with poison inside. And once again the man said, “Whatever someone does he does for himself.” 

While this was occurring, the King’s son was on a hunting trip and got lost. He was tired, and he made his way to this poor man’s home, who offered to give him some of the chicken.

But the people with the prince said, “Let us first have it tasted,” and they found that it was poisoned.  

They took the pauper to the King – and he told the King, “You were the one who gave me this chicken!”

The King said, “It is true! Whatever one does, one does to themselves.”

{This is a very very profound teaching.}

2 Haazinu– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• “Know G-d”
  
  

The Verse teaches us to “Know G-d,” but how can anyone know anything of G-d?

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that this means to know that each and everything that occurs to you and to the world in general comes from G-d.

3 Va-aira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Life’s Journey
  
  

When the Jews left Egypt, they traveled through forty-two journeys / stops along the way to Israel. Some were positive, others negative… This is the secret of the soul. 

Birth is the exodus – and until the soul returns back to Heaven, we traverse through some positive (expansive) and difficult (constricted) phases.  

In truth, each journey is positive. For example, the stop of Kivoirs Hataveh, on a deeper plane means that a person who achieves true connection to G-d buries his Taveh (all other desires) as his focus is exclusively G-d.

Each stop can be good if we focus on the good and holy.

{Life will give you ups and downs but the downs can be up if you can learn life-lessons along the way.}  

1 Maseh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Life’s Purpose

Every soul has a specific mission – a purpose! 

We must fulfill this purpose before the time allotted (namely life) ends.    

{Get to work Now!}

71 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Life’s Purpose
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov revealed that the specific purpose of our soul’s descent is a Torah mission to keep Torah and Mitzvos.

And wherever the soul may find herself… whether in their community or in their travels… she should do Torah and Mitzvos, and help Torah institutions flourish.

211 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Life’s Purpose
  
  

“And you shall make beams / Keresh” (to hold up the Mishkan – this refers to the walls of the traveling Mishkan).

Keresh refers to man – our job is to (Likasher) connect Heaven and earth. As the grandson of the Baal Shem Tov, the Degel Machanei Efraim explains, that in every movement we do, we connect G-d and the Shechinah (and the flipside is if we engage in Sheker – falsehood (also the same letters of Keresh) then instead of fulfilling our purpose of elevating everything to G-d, we give energy to the dark-side.)

{As the Rebbe teaches in Basi Ligani, our job is to transform the Sheker / falsehood (shtus) of this world into a Kesher / strong attachment – rock solid beam – to G-d.}

 6 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Not Lonely
  
  

A Jew is never lonely – wherever he goes, G-d is with him.

{You are never alone as G-d is always with you!}

171 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Man
  
  

The greatness of man, the foremost creation, is that he contains within him the entire cosmos!

221 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Manifesting – Divinity
  
  

The Ari-Zal taught us that all the great secrets of Heaven and levels / “emotions” that exist Above are so that when we study Torah or do a Mitzvah or pray, we should become a Merkava, G-d’s vehicle / expression. 

For example, “The eye of G-d” refers to G-d supervising the whole world.  So, when we peer into the Holy Letters of Torah and Prayer, we manifest “the eye of G-d” (causing G-d’s supervision.)

Likewise, when we speak about the “ear of G-d” this refers to G-d listening to all our prayers and hence when we listen to words of Torah, this manifests G-d’s “ear” / listening…

When we speak about “The hand of G-d,” this refers to G-d giving, which we manifest when we give.

The Mishkan below was constructed in imitation of the worlds and the Mishkan Above and this took tremendous knowledge.  Yet the main lesson of this is that if G-d can be manifested in a physical building, how much more so in you – a spiritual being!

{G-d dwells in you – and everything you do evokes G-d to likewise do.}

Note 3 Pikuidei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Jewish Mazal – “Luck”
  
  

When Abraham said that He couldn’t have a son based on astrology / “the stars,” G-d told him that he should “abandon stargazing,” “because Jews don’t have a Mazal / luck.”

The question arises, why does it say that the three main blessings of life, children, and sustenance do not depend on your good deeds, but on your Mazal (if we don’t have a Mazal?)

The explanation is that when we say “Ein Mazal Liyisroel / Jews don’t have a Mazal” it means “Ayin is the Jewish Mazal!”

Ayin refers to G-d’s desire.

In other words, if you’re getting something because you earned it, it’s not pure kindness as you somewhat deserve it, but the source of all our blessings is the pure unconditional DESIRE of G-d to give.  

26 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Mission In Life

The Baal Shem Tov clarified that wherever a Jew goes, it’s not circumstantial, rather she or he is on a Divine purposeful mission.  

{Do not think that your life or where you are is random – it has a profound purpose.}

390 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Good – Altruism

Even a sin as bad as the daughters of Loit… if the person’s motivation is for G-d, then it is a Mitzvah.  

However, the question is, how does one know?! as the discernment into such a question is exceptionally advanced.

If one sincerely studies Torah, G-d will help the person discern.

 {In other words doing right / good is the most important thing and the mechanism to discern what is, is through sincere altruistic Torah study.}

1 Bo– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Mitzvos

The Baal Shem Tov revealed that the purpose of the descent of every soul is to fulfill the Torah and Mitzvos, whether it is keeping Shabbos or the Festivals, lighting Shabbos candles, or putting on Tefillin. And although the soul comes from the highest of heights (in Heaven) it becomes infinitely greater through performing these Mitzvos!  

{The Soul’s goal is to do physical Mitzvos!}

212 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Names / Soul

131. Just as a physical object is grasped by grasping and holding it – similarly the soul is grasped by calling the person’s name.
 
This is why when you call someone’s name, even when they are asleep, they wake up.

Note 110
The name of a person is their soul.

136. It is known that the name of a person is their essential life-force. All animals, birds, and creations live based on the source of the Holy Letters of their Hebrew name mentioned in the Torah, which is sourced in their Supernal Ministering Angel.  

131-136 Brieshis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Nitzoitzois – Travels

 Often we travel somewhere thinking that we simply have a desire to go to that destination, but really there were some Holy-Sparks we needed to elevate at that location.

Sometimes a person takes a business trip, and on the trip, they elevate the Sparks of Divinity that are within a loaf of bread or some water that they eat or drink – and this completes their soul.

20-21 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Overcome Your Dark Side
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov comments on the Divine command to Avrohom, “Lech-Licha,” in which G-d says (to Abraham) “I will reveal your soul…”   the main purpose of man’s existence is to get rid of their negative tendencies.

{In other words the essence of the first command to a Jew is to reveal their essence by stepping out of false identities and desires.}  

3 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Passionate Mitzvos

Once the Baal Shem Tov was asked “why is that we learn Torah and do Mitzvos but G-d doesn’t answer our prayers, yet your prayers are immediately answered?”
 
He explained with a parable that once a prince got lost in the fields and was starving and thirsty. A shepherd boy took him to his little hut.

He hardly had anything but he took out of his knapsack the cleanest cloth he could find, and put it on the table.
He then spread out a flax sheet on the floor (for the prince to sleep on) for it was the best he had.
 
After the prince returned home he elevated this shepherd above all the other ministers.
 
Said they to the prince, “But we serve you continually?!”
Said the prince, “All the honor given to him is for the loving paltry gifts bestowed with true dedication to me.”

{In other words, Mitzvahs done with love and reverence for G-d is most dear to G-d.}

51 – Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

• Perversion vs Truth
  
  

In every generation there are evil people who claim that the truth is a lie and that the lie is the truth, that darkness is light and the light is the darkness, that the Jews are evil and the evil (who wish to murder Jews) are good!

34 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Positivity
  
  

When we are in a positive state we are connected to the Oneness of G-d, but if we are in a negative, we are separating ourselves.

{If we believe in G-d, life must be fundamentally good.} 

54 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Pure G-d
  
  

What makes a person a person is the Divine within.

If a person sins this Divinity departs.

The Gematria (numerical equivalent) of Adam (man) is Ma”h (the Divine part of one’s soul).

As the Kabbalah says, if an animal eats a person, certainly it is because they saw another animal and not the Divine image.

Never foolishly lose your Divinity through sin.

{Your soul, hence you, are literally G-d – don’t lose the best greatest part in you!}

57 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Purpose of Life
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov quotes Rabbi Sadiah Goan who teaches that the main purpose in our life is to rout out negative innate tendencies (such as laziness, frivolousness, anger, lust, etc.)

{This is an exceptionally important teaching for we have been incorrectly educated / brainwashed in the west (through media etc.) to in fact embrace the bad within. We are, in actuality, here to eliminate it.}

24 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Ratzu Vshuv – Yearning and Returning
  
  

By nature, as the soul comes from G-d, it seeks to return to G-d (merge within G-d – Clois-Hanefesh).

The benefit of the needs of the body such as food and business is that it causes groundedness in our realm. 

11 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Cosmic
  
  

When a person moves even their pinky, all of Heaven moves!

Reb Mottele Tchernobler explains that this is because all universes are within the person.
  

Note 131 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Mind Power
  
  

Know that just as dreams follow their interpretation, for the belief in what will occur causes it… similarly with thoughts.

When the prophet Yirmiyahu heard negative thoughts / prophecies about the Jewish people he should have prayed for them.

{The lesson is to pray and use your thoughts for the positive, as reality is not set but affected by your thoughts, emotions and words.}

161 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  G-d = Everything
  
  

The paradigm of the Baal Shem Tov is one idea that is expressed in two idioms: 1. Everything is G-d and 2. G-d is everything.
 
{The Previous Rebbe teaches that this concept encompasses all of Torah and Mitzvos, all of reality, and our purpose on earth!

As I understand it, it means that first of all there is no fabric of reality besides G-d Himself (as explained in “The Gateway To Unity and Faith” – “Shaar Hayichud” of Tanya) but more importantly, everything is G-d’s will, namely everything serves a unique purpose and function within the cosmic whole. So everything is inherently Divine both in its body and soul / purpose.  Understanding these two principles encompasses all of reality, life, Torah, Mitzvos, purpose, hence inner and general peace.}  

395 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Reality = G-d

“I, I, shall console you.”

Explains the Baal Shem Tov, “When you realize that the only existence is G-d, and there is nothing but (for everything is merely like a data point – graphic – on a screen that He makes all the time) He will surely comfort you.”

Another version: “When you realize that every step, every movement of everyone and everything comes from G-d, this will bring G-d’s salvation.” 

16 + Note 14 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Reward
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example – in the olden days there were foot soldiers who would face the enemy soldiers and horse riders. 

They would chain the legs of the foot soldiers together. 

When the battle was difficult, the foot soldiers would happily give their life for the king, while the riders would run away. 

Now if the battle was won, the riders ran to take the booty; whereas the foot soldiers were content with but a bit of bread and water…

In any event they can’t carry much, and they rely on the king saying, “The king who owns it all, will certainly care for his people – after all, it is we who won the war.”

The analogy is that in this world, there are those who serve G-d and draw down G-d’s blessings, then there are those who are materialistic. 

Those who serve G-d figure that as they are drawing in the blessings, the materialistic people (who receive from their blessings) certainly will share;  But the materialistic people say, “All belongs to me.” 

Hence they appeal to the King, who knowing that all benefit came because of the Holy-Ones, bestows directly to them.

5 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Ruach Hakodesh
  
  

Once The Baal Shem Tov commented on the verse, “Seek G-d when He is close, call to Him when He is near.”

The explanation is, today in exile it is easier to be answered in prayers and achieve the Divine Spirit / Ruach Hakodesh even more so than in the times of the Beis-Hamikdash! 

An example of this is of the King whom it is very difficult to approach while he is on his throne. 

In contrast, when he is traveling, anybody can approach him – even a commoner who normally is not able to come and speak to him. 

Currently during Golus / exile when a person thinks about their nearness to G-d, then G-d is near to them. 

Therefore, it is appropriate for a person to distance themselves from desires, Machashavous Zarois / bad thoughts,  so G-d should not be separate from them.

You should do all things for the sake of G-d – this is the saying of the Sages, “Stay away from a bad neighbor.” 

In other words, stay away from the bad thoughts that dwell in you.

47 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  G-d
  
  

It states, “Your G-d is a Cohen;” that He serves Himself. 

How so?

Because it is He, who empowers the thoughts and speech of man (whom serve Him).

59 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shidduch – Marriage
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that when forty days before conception the Heavenly announcement is made, “The daughter of so and so will be betrothed to so and so…” then many false matches try to take its place. 

As it’s not so easy to rid oneself of these false matches; sometimes they are just spoken about, while other times even engagements occur, which need to be broken off…  

20 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Shidduch
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov explains that the reason why it’s permitted to exaggerate when it comes to Shidduchim is as we know it states, “To make a Shidduch is as difficult as splitting the sea” – so one must give the Samech-Mem (satan) something…
 

21 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Sin

The reason there is a silent Alef in the word Chet (sin) – is because the wicked person who is sinning forgets about Alef / G-d.  

9 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Sin – Not  
   
   

The only reason Kelipah / sin has any Divine life-force (for nothing can exist without G-d continually making it) is in order that we should not do it!  

{So look not at the fact that evil may temporarily exist and even look good, for it but a temporary challenge (mirage.)}

12 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Sin / Punishment

Sin and punishment occur simultaneously. 

1 Haazinu – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

1. Sincerity
   
   

Once the Baal Shem Tov was in Synagogue and all the people were praying dearly for rain as the season had been dry.
 

One man who was very simple, prayed without knowing the meaning of the words but his heartfelt pleas were heard in Heaven – and rain came.  

{You need not be a great Tzaddik to evoke G-d’s miracles, just be sincere.}

61 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Sincerity

The Alter Rebbe said in the name of the Holy Baal Shem Tov that the sincere simple Jew’s keeping of Torah and Mitzvos due to his or her belief in G-d is the vehicle that manifests G-d, and gives G-d great joy.

The simple essence of G-d comes into such people.  
 

157 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Spiritual Sensitivity
     

We know that G-d makes daily pronouncements (such as “Return wayward children.”) People may have a difficult time believing this, as they cannot hear them.

The reason for this is because they are so materialistic, and this blocks their spiritual awareness.

(This is seen in the story of Rabbi Elazar Ben Arach who went to a city that had fine wine and water, and because he indulged in it, it caused him to lose some of his spiritual awareness.)
 
However, if you can remove your lust for the physical, and in fact become spiritual, then with the power of the Moshe (of the generation, who connects souls to G-d) you will be able to hear it.  

3 Devarim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Teshuvah

The Baal Shem Tov taught that just as when one brings a candle to a dark room the darkness completely dissipates, similarly a person who does Teshuvah (repents) though previously he was in a place of darkness, the light of Torah obliterates the darkness.

4 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Thinking – Positive

Whatever we think or speak, whether positive or negative, manifests.

This is a great wisdom!

As such we should train ourselves to only think positively and speak positively!

96 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Positive Thoughts

When we are thinking positive, and connecting to G-d, we are connecting this universe to G-d. 

But G-d-forbid if we are not, it is as if we are worshiping idols.
 Note 5. Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Wealth

Wealth is Heaven to one, to another hell.  

{The Alter Rebbe explained that the person who uses their wealth for helping others, doing good etc. it becomes Heaven; but the person who uses it just for themselves or guards it, it becomes hell.}

228 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Who You Are…
  
  

In Ksoines Pasim the author writes, “I received from my Master (The Baal Shem Tov) that the way to know if one’s soul is connected to life or death… one needs to ask themselves what they want – whether it is Lashoin Hara, jokes, etc. or if it is Torah and good deeds?!”

{Ask yourself “what do I enjoy?” – based on your reply (depending if it is holy or mundane…) you can tell who you currently are.} 

Note 31 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Your Life Design
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that the idea of Divine supervision extends to every single detail in every single creation within the four kingdoms of non-living, vegetation, animal, and particularly human. 

G-d will create various causes to have a desired effect for each and every creation. This can be empirically seen.

In middle of a hot summer day as the sun is shining brightly suddenly a wind will blow, shaking a tree, and some of the leaves will fall off… Some of the straw from a roof will blow off, straw on the ground will be blown to a different location and then in a few moments the day is crystal clear as if there were no wind.

This wind served a purpose of G-d, to tear a few leaves from the tree,  blow off some straw from the roof  and move some straw on the ground in order to bring them to the location that He desires for a Divine purpose.

In other words, even the movement of the leaves and the straw rolling around in the street or in a field is all supervised by G-d so how much more so the life of humans and the Jewish people, G-d’s chosen people! His supervision is in every single micro-detail regarding each and every one of their circumstances!

{Each and every event, from a leaf blowing in the wind, to an insect’s life cycle, is by Divine Guidance, so how much infinitely more so is each of our lives!}  

180 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Love and Fear of G-d

•  Fear with Joy

The Baal Shem Tov quoted the Ramban’s response to someone’s question asking how they should serve G-d? He replied, “Both with reverence, as well as with joy.”

3 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Fear with Joy
  
  

Serve G-d with awe and joy simultaneously – these are two friends that should never be separated.

Fear without joy is misery.

One should always be happy.

{We should always live and serve with both joy and reverence for G-d.}

5 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Love and Fear
  
  

In order to serve G-d, we need both fear (which creates respect) and love (which creates a longing for G-d).

18 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Avodah – Gain

The Baal Shem Tov said, “See to it that from every Avodah (service of G-d, such as Torah study and prayer) you should gain fear of G-d and bashfulness (toward G-d!)

 Note 2 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Fear – Hug From G-d
  
  

Every fear that exists in every universe – for fear is a staple everywhere – is only there to cause a person to attach themselves to the inner fear, namely reverence of G-d.

When one appreciates that “G-d loves me so much to cause so many universes and Beings containing the attribute of fear everywhere, just so I can have a healthy fear of G-d, this then eliminates the fear of others” (and one feels G-d’s loving embrace.)

In fact, it is very easy to transition from the “fear” (reverence) of a Tzaddik, to fear of G-d.

18 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Fear of G-d – The Test
  
  

The ultimate goal is fear of G-d – though one needs both love and fear.

Here is an example or test to see if your fear of G-d is complete:

A Minister has an ego and in his own space (home, office, etc.) loves eating his favorite food (say chocolate.)

However, when he is standing before the king, he is in such a state of humility that even if he were to see his favorite food – the desire for it would not exist.

In a similar sense, Tzaddikim are always consciously aware that they are standing before G-d to the extent that the desires of the body don’t even enter them.  

{In other words, our fear of G-d should be so consciously real that we don’t have space for instinctive desires.}

28 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Fear of G-d – Benefit
   
   

We need to have both love and fear of G-d – if we just have love, a person would become accustomed to it. 

Additionally, the person would always be “with G-d” (think that they’re “buddies”) but fear causes healthy reverence.  

24 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Fear G-d / Sages
   
   

When one has fear of G-d, they have fear of the Sages, and when one has fear of the Sages, they then connect this person to all the positive fears (eliminating the negative.)
 
{We must have reverence for the Rebbe and Tzaddikim.}  

30 Eikev –  Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

1. Fear G-d – First
   
   

The entire purpose of man’s Avodah (service of G-d) is to inculcate fear of G-d, and G-d will in turn give one love of G-d.

Note 25 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Fear of G-d – Transposed To Love
   
   

Fear of Divine punishment in essence can be transposed into G-d’s love, for He wishes for you to repent (Teshuvah) and come close to Him, and when you realize that all is G-d’s love for you – your fear is eliminated.  

365 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Fear G-d / Humility
   
   

The Sages teach that “The reason G-d made thunder is to remove man’s arrogance.”

The Baal Shem Tov explains: Truthfully, any man with a brain should understand that at each and every moment the entire universe is continuously receiving vitality / its energy (existence) from G-d, and as such, “If all of the universe including my own soul and body are currently dependent on G-d; G-d shall I revere!”

On the flip side, a person who doesn’t have this intelligence needs outside motivation.  

{This is a profound teaching, for the Rebbe Rasha”b teaches that we all shall become humble… Best to cause it through intelligent appreciation of G-d vs. circumstance/s.}

26 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. “Deficient” in Your Love / Fear

Always perceive that the love and awe you have for G-d is nothing compared to what you should have… and in this way, you will always yearn / ascend.  

{Don’t be satisfied with your spiritual advancement for this leads to complacency.}

Note 9 Ki Tovo – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Constant Love / Fear of G-d
   
   

“Place Shoftim Vishoitrim (guards and watchmen) in all your gateways.”

This means, “Place love and fear of G-d in all your thoughts,” as thoughts are referred to as gateways.  

1 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. First Love
   
   

The greatest passion for G-d – which Tzaddikim long for – is the passion of the person who first encounters G-d!

Note 12 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Coexisting Love / Fear of G-d
   
   

In this world, wherever there is joy, there is no trepidation / fear and vice-versa.
 
However when we are dealing with serving G-d – both love and fear of G-d can concurrently exist!  

349 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Humility Before G-d

All the Hebrew letters are “face and back” (Alef then Beis – so the Beis has its “back” to the Alef etc.) The reason for this is that as they receive from the level above them, they have an embarrassment to that level. So must a Jew feel to the “level above them.”  

16 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Palpable Fear of G-d
  
  

A person’s constant fear of G-d should match the level they would feel if G-d-forbid something very frightening is occurring, (feeling palpable fear…) and conversely if something frightening is occurring it should only be the level of a person’s constant fear of G-d (more intellectual…)

4 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Fear of G-d – Source of All Fears
  
  

The nature of the world is that there is fear on all levels – for example the mouse is afraid of the cat, which is afraid of the dog, which is afraid of the wolf etc. and all these fears go up until the highest fear which is the fear of G-d.

The reason there are all these outer (worldly) fears is for all is meant to bring one to fear of G-d, for this is the source of fear.  

In fact, when one contemplates how the source of all these fears ultimately stems from the fear of G-d, then the outer fears dissipate.  

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Fear of G-d = Love
  
  

Fear of punishment actually represents G-d’s love, for it is there to remind us that G-d eagerly awaits for us to come close to Him in Teshuvah – and if one elevates to feel G-d’s love, and to accept what will come to you with joy, then this will eliminate your fear.

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  G-d Hugs You
  
  

It is a very great level to always bear in mind that G-d is next to you – encompassing you from every angle.

 
Be so connected to this consciousness that you need not remind yourself that you are with G-d.

See G-d with your mind’s eye, and realize that you are currently in Divine space (as it says, the world is in Divine space for He preceded the world and it exists within Him.)  

169 Kesser Shem Tov

• Constant Awareness

Always see with your mind’s eye, G-d – as if you are gazing at another person, and imagine that G-d likewise is gazing at you.

May this constantly be clearly viewed by you.  

232 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Constant Humility Before G-d

Breishis is “Yira Boishes” (fear of shame). Just like when one is before a great king, he thinks not, “does he love me?” Rather one thinks of the king’s greatness in order to feel humbled, similarly Breishis is “Yira Boishes.” 

We should induce the great reverence and awesome knowledge of G-d’s infinite greatness, so we should always have a sense of humble shame / humility before His glorious presence. (This fear is not being afraid, and shame doesn’t mean to feel embarrassed; rather just as if someone you respect is looking at you, the awareness of their gaze would cause you to not want do something shameful…)
  

{This in fact is the highest level of Yiras Hashem – to constantly, through the consciousness that “G-d is gazing at me, to see if my thoughts and intentions are good / holy,” I maintain a healthy sense of reverential behavior.}

10 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Internal

The ultimate goal of the fear of G-d is that it should be internal – our inside should be Yisroel (fear of G-d), and our outer side should be Yaakov – a simple / straightforward person.

5 Balak– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Divine Reverence

There is a query: As G-d is called “Nora” awe-inspiring – why is there a command to have awe? (For it should be natural… like what one feels when standing before a great king.) The answer is that there is an outer fear – for example a rat fears a cat, the cat fears a dog, the dog fears a wolf etc. Now a person needs to take all of his outer fears (even fear of the outer “part” of G-d – such as punishment, fear, etc.) and bring it to the inner fear (sense of awe).   

17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Self-Discipline – Minagdim

Who is a Yiras Shamayim? (A notable accolade, literally one who fears G-d…) One who has self-discipline. 

But one who merely studies Torah (and this is their sole occupation…) do not get involved with them!

84 + Note 206 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Mitzvah

• Mitzvah With Intention

When we do a Mitzvah we must (by studying the Chassidus about the Mitzvah) bear in mind the intention of the purpose of the Mitzvah, and in this way we connect the physical Mitzvah below to the spirit of the Mitzvah Above.

{A simple succinct Guide is my “Meditations For Your Soul” – encompassing a meditation for many Mitzvahs, relating the Mitzvah to its intent.}

3 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Mitzvah – Intention

If we concentrate on the meaning of the Mitzvah, then we connect the action done below, to the intention Above.

3 Bishalach – Baal Shem Tov On The Torah

•  Mitzvah – Joy

Our Sages teach, “The reward for a Mitzvah is the Mitzvah,” for there is no greater reward than the fact that you receive pleasure from doing a Mitzvah with joy!

This is truly very great! 

Even if there were no other reward but this – it would be enough.
 
But in fact, for doing a Mitzvah with joy, there is infinite reward!  

11 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Passion In Mitzvos
  
  

The Holy Baal Shem Tov teaches, that from our selfish animalistic passion, we can deduce how much passion we must have in doing good!  

2 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Passion In Mitzvos
  
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov has a beautiful example regarding when G-d showed Moses a half-shekel made of fire and said, “This is what you should give (as a donation).”  

The obvious question is, “Why did He show Him a coin made of fire?” 

Once there was a silversmith who wrote instructions for an apprentice on how to shape the silver, but he didn’t write to first heat up the coals (so the metal can melt!) 

In other words, the most important part of the Mitzvah is the fire / passion in doing it!

Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• RUN! To Do A Mitzvah
  
  

When a person goes to do a Mitzvah they must run!

You see, when we get to Heaven every Mitzvah we did creates both an Angel’s soul and body.  

The intention is the soul, and the body is the deed / action. 

So a person who tarried, perhaps shmoozing along the way to do a Mitzvah, when they get to Heaven they are forced to crawl on a narrow bridge over a raging river which is very scary.  

The Angels one created, who were looking forward to their creation block the way – for from one’s intention the Angel’s soul was born, and from the action part of the Mitzvah, the body. The extra time spent on the bridge is painful. (In other words the Angels who were looking forward to their creation which was delayed due to the person tarrying, are getting “even”)

Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Mitzvah = Soul Energy
  
  

When Moshiach comes, we will perceive how every Mitzvah is in fact the source of our soul’s life-force, and the life-force of the world! And without this energy, our soul life-force is incomplete.  

4 Chayei Sara – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Your Mitzvah …
  
  

Everyone has a specific Mitzvah in which they have a special Divine feeling.  

{What is yours?}

96 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Mitzvah = Divine Light
  
  

“A Mitzvah attracts a Mitzvah.” 

The 620 Mitzvos (613 Mitzvos of the Torah, plus the 7 of the Rabbis) are 620 sparks of Divine light. Whenever we do a Mitzvah, we connect to this Divine light.

Note 6 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Mitzvah = Mitzvah
  
  

“A Mitzvah attracts a Mitzvah.” 

The meaning of Mitzvah, is being “bound in” – connected, “intimate.”

So when we connect deeply to G-d (through doing a Mitzvah) and become one – this then causes it to occur again.

Note 6 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Heartfelt Mitzvahs
  
  

A person may do a Mitzvah in a dry way… such as out of habit.

We must infuse it with heart!

8 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Mitzvos Refine
  
  

There is a great example from the Baal Shem Tov explaining Mitzvos.

A father warned his young child to not walk barefoot as he did not want him to feel pain. The child wanting to go barefoot but fearing his father put on shoes. As such the intention of the father and the child are different (one is acting from love, the other fear.) But if the child is wise he realizes his father’s intention, and now they both have the same intention.

Similarly the Mitzvos G-d gave us refine our soul – for the physical world we are in is coarse – as such they are the mechanism in which to G-d we connect.

27 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Mitzvos = Eternal
  
  

The Mitzvos that come from The Eternal G-d, are eternally applicable in all times and to all people (Jewish… and lehavdil seven Noahide for Gentiles).

{As G-d is eternal, so are His Instructions.}  

24 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•   Kosher – Shabbos – Mikvah

Once the disciples of the Baal Shem Tov were debating what is most important for the Leader of the Generation to focus on: one group said “kosher food,” for it affects the sensitivity of the heart and its receptivity to Divine concepts.

The second said “Shabbos,” for there are many detailed laws and to transgress any of them is very serious.

And the third said “Mikvah,” for a child born to parents who are careful with Mikvah has a far better ability to overcome their Yetzer Hara.  

The Baal Shem Tov walked into the room and said, “At this moment, they were debating the same question in Heaven, and they said, the answer is ‘all three.’”  

19 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Sin – Overcoming Desire

In The Holy Sefer Chareidim it is written 17 prerequisites for Mitzvos.

The following are the ways to prevent oneself from sinning. (Whoever sins causes a negative being (demon) who will advocate against him to arise / be created.)

#1 Before one sins one should contemplate, how deep does the stain of this sin penetrate? (It is very deep, it affects one’s soul terribly.)

Furthermore one should contemplate against whom one is rebelling (namely G-d!)  

One should contemplate who is watching, even in the most concealed of places!  

One should contemplate if one has permission to waste their time…! certainly if to rebel against G-d!    

#2 One should feel broken-hearted that one demeans G-d by sinning – which is the ultimate evil, for one is using G-d’s gift of life against the benefactor!

Furthermore this causes Divine energy to be put into the realm of evil.

The fact one has a sinful desire is only a test.  

#4 Do not do even the most minute part of the sin!  

#5 Stay far away, even from the slightest Aveira / sin.

#6 One must run from doing an Aviera, and likewise run to do a Mitzvah, as our Sages teach, “run even to do a simple Mitzvah.” And it states, “I run to do your Mitzvos” which refers to charity and going to mikvah.  

#7 Neither you nor your messenger should engage in any Aveira.    

#8 When an Aveira comes your way, distance yourself! For by doing one Aveira, one then falls down a slippery slope of Aveiros.    

#9 One should never simultaneously do two Avieros.

Now when one sins they actually are doubly sinning, for firstly they are sinning against G-d, and secondly they are destroying their own spirit (nefesh, ruach etc.)
    

#10 An Aveira must be utterly reprehensible in your estimation.    

#11 Do not be confident… this means one must continually be vigilant (fearful) of the possibility of doing an Aviera – this is the definition of a person who fears sin (Yorei Chet.)     

#12 Despise yourself for having done any Aviera (though as the Alter Rebbe writes, after this self-disgust one should request G-d’s pardon, and feel joy as G-d immediately forgives you –  G-d holds no grudges.) Cry over your bad fortune that you came to contemplate sin. 

#13 Realize that by sinning, one does not just take oneself down – as the Rambam says, the world is perfectly balanced, so one sin destroys the universe! And it states, “One sin causes much bad.” This is why the first person was created alone, to teach us that whoever destroys a single Jewish soul is as if he has destroyed the entire world – how much more so does this apply to a person who destroys themselves and their children! As it states “G-d counts the sins of the fathers on the children.”      

#16 When the Yetzer Hara has you convinced to sin, run to a place filled with people, which will cause you to be feel shame. Now feel ashamed that before G-d “the King of the whole world!” you did not (feel ashamed.)  

#17 Contemplate how for every sin there is a terrible purgatory (punishment) for G-d doesn’t forget; and contemplate how painful is the suffering, and your heart should feel broken over what you have already racked up. And may all your days be spent in Teshuvah, and return to G-d and He will forgive!

248 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Teshuvah
  
  

When a person does a Mitzvah, they so to say fix “The 248 Limbs of the King.”

248 is the numerical value of “rechem” womb;  namely they birth (or give life) to the world (meaning that the Shechinah which is now complete, does.)

If on the other hand we sin, we add power to the dark side and from “rechem” comes “cherem” (negativity) until we do Teshuvah.

“And your cattle, you will remember…” this hints to Teshuvah – for the main sin comes to a person from the increased animalistic tendency – this is called “your cattle.”

Therefore one must elevate their animal soul to the place of memory – to refine the physical and subjugate it to the spiritual. 

And then a person is in the secret of the male, which is compassion.

And one subdues the animalistic drive and breaks their animalistic impulses.

We must elevate all essential drives to / for G-d. 

And this is the explanation, “And all your cattle, you will remember.”  

29 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Mitzvos – Intent

As G-d and His Torah are one therefore when one does a Mitzvah with altruistic intentions, then G-d and the Mitzvah unite and become one – for it is all His Holy energy, while if we G-d forbid have a selfish intention, then this intention acts a Kelipah (shell – covering) creating a barrier between G-d and the Mitzvah. 

{Surrender all your desires, but the desire to fulfill G-d’s.}

Note 1 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Moshiach

• Hashgachah Pratis – The Divine Orchestra
   

Everything in truth is Divinely orchestrated, however when you don’t believe this you fall under the forces of darkness that conceal (the truth.)
  
When Moshiach comes and the forces of darkness are removed, which includes the concealment of this truth, we will be able to see how everything is one hundred percent Divinely orchestrated!

427 Kesser Shem Tov

• Intentionality
   

All wars and bad thoughts occur because Malchus is missing her love (“the Higher light” – similar to a wife feeling upset about feeling unloved). When a person realizes this, they will ensure to connect Malchus / the realm of action to Machshavah / intention – in other words, one should be using positive intentions in all our actions.

{Your intentionality in behavior and Mitzvahs saves the world!}

13 Balak– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Moshiach – Via Mitzvos

An example: when a person thinks about a home, it may take only a moment but to actually build the home takes years.

When we do Mitvahs and good deeds, we connect our realm of action (slow time) to the realm of Heaven (thought / fast time.)

This hastens redemption.

32 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Moshiach
  
  

The idea of Moshiach is Daas / knowledge of G-d, hence increasing our knowledge of G-d (thereby affecting our behavior) brings Moshiach.

{You must ensure that all of your actions come from your intention (think then do.)}

2 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Moshiach – Knowledge
  
  

When a person knows and believes that G-d inhabits every single item, every movement, and every thought in this world – it all comes from Him! then all the Kelipah (dark-forces) will dissipate.

This is the meaning of “Know G-d, your father.”

114 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Moshiach – From Darkness To Light

Evil people cause the Tzaddik to pray from a place of constriction, unifying the Shechinah with G-d – and subsequently the evil (like the Kelipah – shell of the nut – falls off) and this brings Moshiach.  

151 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Moshiach – G-d’s Name

Currently, during exile, G-d’s name is incomplete (we use just the Yud-and Hei) – so all of our prayers must be that Moshiach should come, for then G-d’s name will be complete (Yud – Hei – Vov – Hei.)  

22 + Note 19 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Moshiach – Teach Chassidus (To Bring)

The Baal Shem Tov wrote, “I ascended into Heaven on Rosh Hashanah in the year 5,507 and entered into the room of the Moshiach where He sits and teaches Torah to the Seven Shepherds and all the great Tzaddikim and saints, and I asked him, ‘When will our Master arrive (when will Moshiach come?)’

He replied, ‘When your Chassidic teachings will be spread far and wide.’”  

{As such by spreading Chassidic teachings we hasten the arrival of Moshiach!}

1 Kesser Shem Tov

• Moshiach Within You – Teshuvah

Everyone must repair (improve) and prepare the part of Moshiach that is in their soul.

As is known, Adam Harishoin (the first man) has the acronym:
Adam, Dovid, Moshiach. 

For the stature of Adam’s soul is such that it included the souls of every subsequent Jew.

Through the sin, His stature was diminished.
Similarly, Moshiach’s soul is a composite of all Jewish souls as it was before Adam sinned. 

Therefore, each Jew is to prepare (repair) the part of Moshiach within their soul, and then the entire soul / structure will be rectified and prepared.

And there will be a complete and constant Oneness.

{The Rebbe often would quote this teaching! And practically it means to identify with G-d within you / your deepest self, and to manifest it passionately.}

8 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Moshiach Through Growth and Self-Refinement

A person need not be a Holy Tzaddik (involved in Yechudim, hamtakas hadinim, expansive mindset, etc.) Rather, a person who works on themselves to banish both the evil traits and desires (say lust) and subjugate themselves to their soul (directives), will thereby eliminate the Kelipos (dark side) and then be worthy that the Shechinah should rest upon them. And through causing the unity with G-d within yourself (in your speech – to speak the words of G-d – and in your heart to passionately go after His will) then the unity between G-d and the universe will also occur.

{In other words, through growth and self-refinement we cause redemption, as this causes a mirror response from G-d.} 

11 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Moshiach’s Arrival

When Moshiach comes it will be like a “happenstance.” 

In other words, everyone will be busy doing their work, and He will suddenly arrive!

 1 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Moshiach’s Arrival

The arrival of Moshiach will not be accompanied by deaths.  

2 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Moshiach’s Meal

The Baal Shem Tov called the festive meal on the last day of Pesach “Moshiach’s meal.” During this meal, He had an open-door policy and whoever came, joined the meal.  

{The reason for this is, because on Acharoin Shel Pesach (the last day of Pesach) the light of Moshiach shines.}

248 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Prayer During Moshiach

When Moshiach comes, all our prayers (as all negativity will cease) will subsequently be Yechudim (higher cosmic unifications / growth.)

81 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Pray For Your Redemption
  
  

Just as there is the general redemption of all Jews (from Egypt,) there is the individual’s redemption.

Before you pray for the general redemption, you must pray for your personal one.  

Note 4 This is the exile of the G-dly soul in the Yetzer Hara (as the Rebbe teaches, Moshiach will redeem the Jewish people from the Yetzer Hara.)

5 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Prayer For Redemption

We have a prayer that G-d should unite Chochmah and Malchus – namely the Yud of “Yud-Hei-Vov-Hei” with final Yud of “Alef-Daled-Nun-Yud.” This represents the thought of G-d (the first Yud) with His speech and action (the final Yud) – and then the complete redemption will follow.  

48 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Rebbe = Moshiach

Moshiach and Redemption come by being connected to the Tzaddik of the generation (like a body to a head).

370 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Redemption – Personal (from Yetzer Hara)

We must pray for the redemption of our soul from the Yetzer Hara.

Through our spiritual redemption, we also gain physical redemption.

The physical exile results from the spiritual.

By doing Teshuvah and elevating our soul out of its slavery to the Yetzer Hara, we cause redemption.

Note 4 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Prayers – Elevating

The Baal Shem Tov said that the Galus / Exile of the Shechinah is that instead of focusing on G-d during prayers, a foreign thought (not for G-d) “rides” on the word.

100 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Thought To Action

Whenever you connect thought / intention (which inherently is connected to G-d) with action / Malchus (the lowest level) you create the Yichud (unity) of G-d and the Shechinah.

Moshiach is the Daas (integrative knowledge) of the entire Jewish people.

As it states that in the time of Moshaich the whole world will be filled with the knowledge of G-d.

As such when we integrate our actions with our intent (Daas) this brings about the revelation of Moshiach.

Note 154 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Torah Study Lishma = Redemption

It is a Mitzvah to mention the name of the Rabbi whose law one is studying, which hastens the redemption and causes one to connect to the source of the Rabbi’s Soul Above.  How much more so will we cause redemption by studying Torah altruistically / Lishmah (thereby connecting to G-d Himself.)  

320 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara Elimination = Moshiach

We must pray to be redeemed from our Yetzer Hara.
When we all individually are redeemed from our Yetzer-Hara then the universal redemption will come!

166 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Personal Growth

•  Divine Reaction
  
  

Just like your shadow mimics your movements, similarly whatever we do below causes a Divine reaction.
 
If we act kindly and compassionately this causes G-d to bestow in kind!

Often The Holy Baal Shem Tov would share this teaching!

Note 17 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  How To See Things
  
  

In Megillas Rus it states, “A good eye is a blessing.”

“Eye” refers to Chochmah / wisdom.

Gazing is the lowest level of wisdom.  

“A good eye” is one who has good wisdom.  

When he or she gazes at something, they bring to it a blessing!

For when one gazes at something and a person realizes that relative to G-d (the source that continually creates it) it is as if the object doesn’t exist… for its existence is really the force of G-d bringing it currently into appearance (existence…) When one uses this sort of gazing, then we draw into it greater Divine energy.

On the flip side, a person who has a “negative eye” meaning by looking at an object one revels in its beauty, etc. thereby separating it from its true source (namely G-d) this is not good.

(The way we view things, as taught in quantum physics affects what we view, hence the lesson is as the Rebbe Rashab teaches (mentioned in Tanya) to train the eye to realize that in fact you are looking at G-d, the energy source of all matter.)

Megilas Rus – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Desires

Do not care about the foolish desires of your serpent skin body.

{If your body sees an ad and is attracted that is not you! but the animal aspect of the body.}

6 Tzavaas Harivash

•  7 Noahide Laws – Teach
  
  

The Gemarah teaches that in the verse “And G-d Commanded On Man Saying” we see G-d commanded the Seven Noahide Laws.
 

(The seven Divine laws incumbent on all of humanity / Gentiles are: 1. Not to worship idols. 2. Not to curse G-d (life…) 3. Not to murder. 4. Not to steal. 5. Not to commit adultery or immoral sexual behavior. 6. Not to hurt (specifically “not to eat of an animal that is still living.”) 7. For all nations to establish courts of justice to uphold these laws.)

The Baal Shem Tov said that the Jewish people are responsible to teach these seven laws to the Gentiles.

120 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  How To Admonish

If there is a need to admonish the public – one’s words will only be effective if one includes oneself (such as “we need to…”)

389 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Advice (Accepting)
  
  

A person whose heart is “fattened” (arrogant) from sins, has a blockage that prevents them from accepting advice.

Note 27: Once a man came to the Baal Shem Tov to study and grow. The Baal Shem Tov delayed him, causing him to stay for a year and a half before ever meeting, and only then did He tell him some harsh words.

He explained that he had to remove his Orlas Halev, his “fattened” / blocked heart.

{As the Rebbe teaches: desires, such as enjoying physical pleasures cause a bias towards their fulfilment (as we see in addiction G-d-forbid).

And as the Alter Rebbe teaches in Igerres HaTeshuvah, we must first feel bad that we have taken our Divine soul / G-d and brought Him into filth which is the filthy thoughts, and only then can we grow properly.

To receive wisdom we need humility.}

29 + Note 27  Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Anger – Overcoming
  
  

When joy and love enter, anger exits!
 
Though this is a natural phenomenon, it still pays to explain. As joy and love enter the heart, the anger elevates to its source, where it is rectified. (Anger is only rectified (sweetened / placated) in its source.)

{To overcome anger, be happy and increase love in your heart!}

14 Va-Yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 Arrogance = Exile

Exile comes from when we serve G-d, yet this contributes to our arrogance. When we do this, the Kelipah takes the energy.

{In other words, serve G-d because it’s the right thing to do.}

1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Arrogance – Just Do Good
  
  

Never refrain from doing good because you are worried that it might cause you arrogance, or that your intentions aren’t pure.

When you do good, you make a pure vessel in Heaven.  Your intent is the inner light of this vessel, creating a beautiful light, so worry not about perfection.

{Worry not about becoming arrogant – just do good.}

163 Bereishis– Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Arrogance = Evil – Humility = Righteous
   

Our Sages state: What is the difference between the disciples of Abraham (humility, kindness, etc.) and Billam (dissatisfied, arrogant, etc.)?
 
In truth, each has the qualities of the other, but one uses it for the spiritual, the other for the physical.

***

The difference between spiritual and physical desires is amazing as they both have the same tendency… just in a different direction.
 
The spiritual person is never satisfied with his or her spirituality and always seeks more – while materialistically they are content with little.

The egoist, on the other hand, is never satisfied with anything in this world, though spiritually they feel that the little they do is enough.

***

Our Sages say, “Whoever has a kind eye, a humble spirit, and a non-desirous soul, is from the students of Abraham, but whoever has a negative eye (toward others) an arrogant spirit, and unsatiable appetite (for their desires) is from the disciples of the wicked Billam.”

What is the difference between these two:
The students of Avrohom benefit both in this and the next world, but the disciples of Billam lose both.

In truth, the righteous person must also contain the qualities of Billam albeit in the opposite direction. Regarding their service to G-d a “negative eye” means, always feel that whatever one has accomplished is inadequate, and we must do more!

And when it comes to matters of the world, one should be satisfied, and not desirous of pleasures from this world.

Similarly, the righteous person uses arrogance to counter the Yetzer Hara that lies to Him by saying, “Who are you to serve G-d?!” (“Why I am a creation of G-d!”)

And He also has an insatiable desire for all positive spiritual practices (in Judaism / Chassidus.)

38-40 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Avodah – “Always”
   

A person needs to serve G-d with all his ability.

G-d wishes to be served in many ways.

Sometimes a person is walking and schmoozing, and while they obviously cannot learn at that moment, nevertheless one’s thoughts should be connected to G-d.

Similarly, when one is on the road and cannot pray or learn as normal, one must serve G-d in other ways.

Do not be upset about this – G-d desires to be served in all ways.

This is why He created opportunities to talk to another or travel.

{In other words limit yourself not to the obvious services of G-d – in every experience there is a unique way in which we must serve G-d.}

3 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Always For G-d

Even physical pleasures should only be for G-d.

{In other words, even pleasure should only be when G-d wills it.}

13 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Always G-d

The Baal Shem Tov teaches the secret of “Knowing G-d in all your doings” / “Bchoil Dirachecha Da-eyhu.”

When you are shmoozing with your friend, have in mind that this (external) closeness is to then be able to bring them closer to G-d – this is a great Yichud (Divine act.)
 
{Even interpersonal friendship should have a higher purpose.}

106 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Discernment  

Everything in this world can be used for good or evil. Our job is to choose.

{Our job is to discern – and use everything for the good.}

7 Kesser Shem Tov

• Avodah – Divine Service – From Your Level

Everyone must work based on their current standing.

{In other words, rather than imitating or comparing yourself to someone else, serve G-d from your unique self.}

4 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Avodah – Do It Now

“Cast me not aside in old age” explains the Baal Shem Tov: “Cast not serving G-d till old age.”

{Don’t delay – Do it today!}

67 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Duty

Even when an “anxious fear” exists within the world and one doesn’t feel “Divine love,” one should coerce themselves to do what is right. From this comes the main reward.

{It doesn’t always need to feel pleasurable…  Doing what’s right even when we are not in the mood is the greatest achievement!}

366 Kesser Shem Tov

1. First Steps

When one begins to serve G-d, one may use the otherwise deleterious trait of arrogance. For example, one may find inspiration in the reward G-d will give them.

(Though in truth, who is truly deserving of reward?!

Eventually one wishes to do what’s right for the right reasons, however, to begin with, a person must incentivize themselves.)

393 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Altruistic

King David said, “I walk expansively… For your Mitzvos I seek.”

King David praised Himself on His ability to go through the marketplace without negative impulses, for all He sought in life was Yechudim (making G-d happy).

{When our sole desire is to make G-d happy we have nothing to fear.}

113 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Kabbalas Ol – Duty

The Baal Shem Tov asked, “Why did G-d have to hang Mount Sinai over the Jewish people” threatening them that if they didn’t accept the Torah the mountain would crush them as they already had said, “We accept the Torah!?”

The lesson here is: Do what needs to be done, even when you’re not in the mood.

47 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Bring G-d Joy
   
   

“Many tried to reach the level of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai but failed…”

They tried to use self-flagellation / deprivation to reach His lofty heights.

A person should not try to “reach lofty heights,” rather their goal should be to bring joy to G-d.

47 Tzavaas Harivash

1.  See G-d
   
   

One should be so attached to G-d that the main thing they see is G-d.

Not that the main thing one sees is this world, and also G-d.

Rather your main sight should be G-d; for man cannot make a single movement without G-d’s input.

{The Rebbe Rasha”b teaches that true joy is seeing G-d in everything – everywhere.}  

40 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Close = Far – Far = Close
   
   

When one thinks they are close to G-d, they are far;  When one thinks they are far, they are close.

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a circular stairway.

If you are standing at the bottom and see the king on a higher floor, you recognize that you are far.  As you walk up the stairway and approach the king, you find that the circular stairwell causes you to face away from the king. So while in fact you are closer to the king, you don’t see him.

147 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Negative to Positive
   
   

Whatever occurs to you, instead of becoming judgmental, one should “sweeten the judgment.” For example, you can realize that the negative you see in another was shown to you so you can repent (for we all have some evil in us – but our self-denial prevents us from acknowledging it, and now we have an opportunity to repent.)

If someone is bothering you while you seek to pray, then you can (use this to your advantage by considering) that the reason this occurred is because “G-d wishes that I should increase my prayers (concentration etc.”)

Finally and mainly, realize that G-d is in every minute detail, so in everything there is a positive lesson to be deduced; just as when one studies Torah or prays (as such there is no need to be mad or sad, but glad and loving.)   

302 Kesser Shem Tov
 

1.  Balanced
   
   

“If you are good, you will be uplifted, (“Seis”), and if you are not, to the door of sin the Yetzer Hara will entice.”

This is seen in the play on the words, “If it is good / ‘Seis’” (“Seis” has the connotation of arrogance). Namely when things are good it can cause you to feel arrogant, but when things are not good… it can cause you to feel depressed.   

All of these are the workings of the Yetzer Hara.

A person must always take the middle path. One should never be arrogant nor feel lower than others.

In other words, if the spirit of arrogance comes to you, cause yourself to feel humble (by lowering your self-image.)

If the spirit of lowness and sadness comes to you, you should cause yourself joy (by uplifting yourself.)

Moshe is the level of Daas – Knowledge.

“Har Sinai” (“Mount Sinai”) alludes to two opposites: a mountain representing arrogance, and Sinai representing humility.

This is the meaning of, “And G-d spoke to Moses at Mount Sinai.” For a person needs to take the path of Moses, the way of discernment between these two extremes.

The mountain is arrogant, and Sinai is lowliness.

One must try to see how the Yetzer Hara is trying to manipulate them, for sometimes it tries to turn a person into an arrogant mountain, and other times into a lowly “no-man’s-land.”

He does this by pretending to be righteous and heaping on guilt.

In this way, the person becomes too depressed to serve G-d.

The way to beat the lowness is to say, “I am a Jew!”

And the way to beat arrogance is to recall the lowness of the body (its desires…)

One must use discernment of their current state to determine if one needs to balance their arrogance with humility or conversely their sadness and depression with joy.

{This is an exceptionally important teaching for to be mentally healthy we must exist between feeling too high or too low. We balance our emotions by recognizing when we are feeling excessively high or low, and lifting ourselves up or lowering ourselves when appropriate.}

140 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Balanced
   
   

In order for a person to do good they must be balanced, not manic nor depressed.

Hence when a person sees that they are getting over-exuberant they must temper themselves with some sadness and vice-versa.

One who cannot identify their emotional tides should go to a “Soul Doctor” (Mashpia – Chassidic mentor) who will be able to discern; (unfortunately, sometimes the “soul doctor” can tell that the person has become arrogant, and the arrogant person is incapable of listening as “he knows everything…” therefore they must humble him.)

{This is an exceptionally important teaching, for our tendency is to “enjoy the high,” but this brings detachment from reality. If you find you are over-exuberant (hence not getting things done in reality or conversely G-d-forbid sad) go NOW to a Mashpia.}

249 Kesser Shem Tov

• Be Busy
  
  

When a person is busy serving G-d each and every moment, they don’t have time for egoism and other bad desires.  

{Busy yourself with doing good, so bad has no space.}

14 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Be Healthy
  
  

When a person is not well, they cannot properly serve G-d therefore one must be exceedingly careful to increase their good health.

{As the Rebbe teaches from the Rambam, #1 Eat healthy to prevent diseases.
B. If you are G-d-forbid ill, ask the advice of a doctor who is a friend, and obey.}  

231 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Bedtime Meditation

Before you go to sleep think about how your mind is rising up to G-d in order to have strength to serve G-d tomorrow.

75 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Bedtime Meditation
  
  

Before you go to sleep, lie down with great reverence and fear of G-d, tremble and shake in reverence before G-d, and in this way one shall not come to sin (presumably a seminal emission at night).

23 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Bikkurim – Tzeddakah
  
  

The Torah says, “It will be when you come into the land, and you should take from the first fruit.”

The secret of the first fruit, Bikkurim, was returning the light of Nukvah / feminine (malchus) to the Cohen who is Chessed in order that the Kelipah should not derive benefit.

This is explained in Gemarah, “Whoever brings a present to a Talmid Chochom (Tzaddik) it is as if he offered Bikkurim.”

“Everything G-d made He made it for His sake.”

Everything G-d made, when we use it for Holy purposes, we elevate the Holy Nitzoitzois / sparks within.

The Jewish people elevate together with these Holy Sparks and this becomes like a sacrifice to G-d.

A person who is connected to G-d, connects everything that they see, hear, speak, and touch to G-d (through using it for a Divine purpose).

This beautifies the Shechinah, exposing the G-dliness that gives life to the objects.

All sinners then dissipate, the evil is eradicated, and the good is extracted.

Even a small action below causes a big impact above.

As not all people are able to constantly dedicate their every action to G-d, G-d gave us the Mitzvah of Bikkurim (offering the first fruit and first animals) to G-d.

Through this offering, all of our possessions and desires are included, and offered to G-d – as everything follows the “head,” the original intent, which is to offer ourselves (and our encounters) to G-d.

This is the concept of giving a present to a Talmid Chochom which is similar to Bikkurim (as it elevates all our possessions.)

This is what the Baal Shem Tov and some of His Holy Talmidim (Disciples) accomplished, as they would occasionally do Yechudim (Divine meditations) in a field, to elevate the grass.

{This is similar to what the Alter Rebbe writes about charity, that through donating 10% of one’s income to G-d, one elevates the other 90%, as well as the time and effort put into making it.}

1 Ki Savoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Easy Birth
  
  

The Name אלד is good for a woman giving birth.

One should think:
The א represents Chochmah and Binah,
The ל represents the three columns
and ד  represents the Shechinah;
One should have in mind to draw down from Above to below, and this will assist.

7 Vayei-ra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Connecting = Blessings
  
  

The four letters of the Divine name can represent speech, sound, breath, and thought.

When we attach our speech, sound, breath, and thought to the Divine speech, Divine breath, and Divine thought through words of Torah, this creates a unification of the individual’s soul with the Divine.

This in turn causes blessings to flow not only to the individual but to the entire universe!

211 Kesser Shem Tov

• Be Careful Where You Look

When we humble ourselves to the point of nothing, it is then that salvation comes.  Something without a form cannot be further broken.

The Baal Shem Tov says, “How do we get to the point of nothingness? When all we do is for the Soul!”

For the soul cannot be perceived (it is the level of “nothing”) while the body which has a form is the level of Yesh / Existence.

Attach your thoughts above. Don’t eat or drink too much, don’t increase your physical pleasure, and don’t look at any media (“things of this world.”)

Rather, try to separate yourself from the physical. For when you look at it, you cause your soul to become coarse.

Our Sages teach us, “seeing causes remembering, and remembering causes desire.”

And this was the sin of the forbidden tree, “that it looked good,” and therefore it caused a desire.

Note 18 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Your Body
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov taught on the verse, “When you will see the donkey…”

When you will truly look at the desires of your body, you will see “Your enemy.”

It hates the soul that has spiritual yearnings and strivings – furthermore you will see, “That it is burdened under its luggage.”

Instead of doing what G-d requests happily, it is lazy and stubborn.

So you may think, “I will not help it…”

Namely that I need to “whip the donkey;” in other words, be harsh to my body.

This is not the correct way for the light of the Torah to penetrate / reside in you; rather, “You should surely assist it…”

You should refine and encourage it, but not break or pain it.

{This is an amazing teaching, for the Baal Shem Tov set aside the notion that people should not care for the body, rather he said that we should use our body in good health and happiness for good things.}

21 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Body – Soul
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a King who tested three servants – he gave each of them a large amount of money and told them to feed one of his dogs.

The first one took the money and made a crown for the King, which pleased him.

The second fed the dog just enough so it could live.

The third used all the money to feed the dog, and this made the King so angry that he turned the dog loose on him.

The lesson from this example is explained by Heichal Brocho: Every soul receives an animal soul, which is the dog, and if a person is holy they use this world (their animal soul) only for holy things.

If a person is a little less so, they indulge the body but not overly…

If a person is a fool, they do everything for the body, and eventually, they will do Teshuvah / repent.

Nitzavim 2 Note 2 – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Body To Light

The Baal Shem Tov interpreted the famous Biblical verse “We should do the commandments ‘to Live’!”

The ultimate life is to transform the gross body, as Chanoich and Eliyahu managed, into light.

356 Kesser Shem Tov

• Breaks / Rotzu Vshuv
  
  

The idea of Rotzu Vshuv (literally, energy goes up and down) is that through taking a break from Divine devotion which occurs when we work, eat, sleep etc. the soul then rests.
And the mind (which has its limits) refreshes and is subsequently able to serve G-d again.

A person who measures how much time he needs off in order to be able to sustain the Divine service later is continually serving G-d.

{Even during the break… he is serving G-d, for the intent is to serve G-d.}

367 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Busy – Be
  
  

When a person is serving G-d continually they have not time for silly arrogance or other bad traits.

{Be focused on good – there won’t be time for bad.}

52 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Name
  
  

Just as you hold a physical object with your hand, you “hold someone” by calling their name.

104 Kesser Shem Tov

• How To Change the World

When three people get together for a good cause this has a great effect.
 
(The Baal Shem Tov had many novel ideas which he wished to introduce to the secret society of Tzaddikim – the leader Reb Adam Baal Shem told him to have another two people work on them with Him and they were very successful.)

189 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Instincts
  
  

Our Sages teach there are “four primary types of damages:”

“Ox” – “Pit” – “Bite” (of an animal) – and “Fire.”

Spiritually this means:

Ox- Looking where you shouldn’t.

Pit- A person who lies fallow by not learning, and thus wastes time.

Bite- Someone who eats anything and everything.

Fire- Anger – which is the cackling of fire.

{In other words:

1.) Look not where you shouldn’t.

2.) Use your time productively, especially to study Torah.

3.) Don’t be a “foodie.”

4.) Don’t be angry.}

4 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Character – Improving
  
  

“Someone who habitually lies shouldn’t lie even for the sake of peace.”

(In other words, to get rid of this bad character trait one must uproot it, even where / when it might be appropriate to use it.)

This is similar to the teaching that “whoever takes interest on loans shouldn’t do so even from a gentile.”

{This is a profound teaching as the mechanism to uproot a bad characteristic is as the Rambam says to go in the complete opposite direction – until it is uprooted.}

10 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Charity – Receiving
  
  

The Gemarah says, “He who wishes to receive should do so as Elisha, but he who wishes to not receive, should do so as Shmuel.”

The Gemarah teaches us that “The person who gets another to give charity is even greater than the person that gives.”

A poor person who receives with this intention (namely that he is bestowing on others the great Mitzvah of charity) can then cause many people to give in one day! (Whereas in terms of the giver, the amount may be limited.)

As such, a person who wishes to receive should do so as Elisha, who only received from righteous people.

Whereas Shmuel wished to not receive from anyone.

{If one wishes to bestow the Mitzvah of charity on others, they should only take from righteous people.}

14 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Chassidus – Baal Shem Tov
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov didn’t want to reveal Himself for He was in the sublime reality of Hisbodudus / meditativeness / Divine connection.

This is a supreme reality in which there is light, but to teach others is what is most necessary.

His Master, Reb Adam Baal Shem, worked very hard to get him to reveal Himself.

Yet it was the teaching of His Master, Achiyah Hashiloini, who told Him that His revelation would actually accentuate Hisbodedus that caused Him to reveal Himself.

In other words, the revelation of Chassidus is able to integrate two opposing realities: Typically in meditation the mind is able to think, whereas when one focuses on implementation, the mind is preoccupied with something else (albeit great things.) In the Torah / teachings of Chassidus, however, both realities (the light of Hisbodedus / meditation and the great things to accomplish) can occur simultaneously.

296 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Chassidus Purpose – Mentor / Mashpia
  
  

The main purpose of Chassidus is self-refinement and unconditional love.

 
But in order to do so, one needs the advice of someone who has already reached this level.

{To grow we need a Chassidic mentor.}

235 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Chibut Hakever
  
  

“If one passes on Erev Shabbos this is a good sign.”

The Baal Shem Tov notes that the point of this Gemara is to teach us that this is a way to save oneself from Chibut Hakever (the body being eaten by worms).

However it’s not within one’s control when they pass!?

The Baal Shem Tov goes on to say that the Gemara teaches us that a person should be “as if he died on Erev Shabbos;” namely he removes all concerns of this world.

And in this way, he is saved from Chibut Hakever.

79 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Choice
  
  

Moshe Rabeinu was born to be evil, yet through His choice, he became most righteous.  

{We see from this, we can all become very holy through so desiring.}

1 Korach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Chossid
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov revealed how everyone, not only “Holy People,” can be Chassidim.  

{You can be a Chossid!}

386 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Chossid – Sincerity
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov revealed how every Jew can have true love and reverence for G-d.

Even simple Jews who say Tehillim with sincerity (and have no greater ability to study) have reached the apex.

387 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Too Comfortable

Elevate yourself out of physical comfort to spirituality.  

57 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Compassion – Tifferes

Our forefather Jacob understood that one cannot be exclusively either in the character trait of kindness (which allows for evil for it never judges…) Nor in the character trait of harsh-discipline (for it creates resentment, hence jealousy, and hence evil).   

As such He realized there must be a balancing act in-between called Tifferes / Mercy which is essentially compassion. (Whereas love never judges and harsh discipline is only judging; compassion seeks the welfare of the other while maintaining the balance of truth and goodness, justice and decency.)

This is why Yaakov is called “the greatest of the Forefathers.”

Additionally this is the way the world functions, as our Sages state: “G-d wished to make the world with the attribute of Din (Judgment) but realized it could not survive, so He mixed in compassion.”

210 Kesser Shem Tov

• Connected

Whatever a righteous person does is good, even in worldly matters. 

But a fool, even when he is the leader (in a position to influence positively) sins.

Another version of this teaching is, a good person is attached to G-d even when doing matters of this world. But a fool even during Torah study and prayer (if they are thinking about their own ego such as recognition or honor) is detached.  

{Be connected to G-d even in “mundane” things.}

98 Tzavaas Harivash

• Consciousness – Laughter
  
  

We fluctuate between the open expansive and the narrow constricted state, hence having a good laugh can elevate us out of the closed state and enhance our Torah study and service of G-d.
When a person is in a closed state, they can elevate themselves by laughing.

This is also the reason there were two jesters (destined to receive the world-to-come mentioned in the Talmud) for whenever they saw someone in pain they would elevate them through jokes, and then be able to get them closer to serving G-d.

37 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Convictions
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov explains the concept that “the world of falsehood mirrors the world of truth.” There are three main pillars:

Chessed / Love, pleasure;

Gevurah / Strength;

and Tiferes / Beauty.

These extend from the highest heights to the lowest depths.

In the world of holiness, the pleasure of Chessed is spiritual (like the pleasure we get from helping another or understanding and loving G-d).

However as Chessed descends to the lower world, this pleasure morphs into lust.    

In the higher world, Gevurah is positive self-discipline, but as it descends it morphs into anger and idolatry.    

Tifferes / “beauty” is seeing G-d’s grandeur, but as it descends it becomes arrogance.
  

AVODAH (SELF-REFINEMENT)  

If a person in the lower realm is weak-minded, they allow these instincts to overtake them – but if one strengthens their convictions then they use these emotions positively.
 

Evil is characterized by being weak in intelligence / resolve,  thereby the lower instincts dominate (and Repentance is strengthening one’s convictions and mind, and thereby these emotions are used positively.)  

152 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Critics
  
  

A good person is called Eretz-Yisroel and a foolish person involved in the foolish pursuits of this world is called Bavel.  People who are involved in foolish pursuits – instead of seeing goodness in those involved in holiness, see ugliness.  

{Don’t take malice, criticism of unholy people, seriously.}

6 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Criticism – Don’t
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a very competent doctor.
For a very ill patient, a competent doctor could give him dangerous medicines… but somebody who is not as competent this could kill them.

{Criticism, as the Rebbe said, is not the way to educate rather via kindness and compassion.}

11 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Criticize – How To  

If you need to criticize someone regarding their sin, it’s better to criticize someone else in the company of the person who did the sin – and then the person will realize that these words are really applicable to them.  

18 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Overcome Desires
   

We must detach ourselves from the “pleasures” of this world.

If we do things for instinctual gratification, we do not know (or connect properly to) the pleasure of G-d (for as the Rebbe teaches from Kabbalah, one type of pleasure counteracts the other.)

{The Rebbe teaches that when we realize that the cost of enjoying physical pleasure is conversely to not enjoy spiritual (as they counteract) we will give up these addictions.}

240 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Overcoming Desires (Addictions)
  
  

If you get any lustful thoughts, stop thinking about them.

See what you desire as completely reprehensible and disgusting – shout at this foolish desire (and the Yetzer Hara that implants its lust) and in this way, you will eradicate it.

Have no sadness when you lack physical desires.

In fact, you should be exceptionally joyous that you managed to quash the physical / lustful desires for G-d.

When you don’t follow a negative desire, you greatly reduce the Kelipah (the bad force).  

9 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Overcoming Desires
  
  

If you have a desire for a bad disposition (like anger etc.) say six times the nations (“Haknani…” “The Knaniy, The Chity, The Emori, The Pirizi, The Yevusi, The Girgashi”) with all your heart and soul, with love and reverence for G-d, and it will dissipate.

Now use this emotion for G-d.

For example, if you have a lust – only love G-d, and may all your efforts be towards this love!

If you have anger, use the toughness of this emotion to overpower your Yetzer Hara.  

14 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Overcoming Desires (Sins)

If you have a desire for any sin (say non-kosher-food…) then say the verses of that sin (where the Torah discusses not to eat Treif / non-kosher) with their chant and vowels, with love and reverence for G-d, and the desire will disappear.  

13 Tzavaas Harivash

• Desiring
   

“And the land will rest…”  means that we rest our desires.  

27 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Desiring (lust)
  
  

Connect your thinking to Above.

Do not eat or drink excessively nor for pleasure (taste etc.) but for the benefit of health.

Do not gaze at things of this world (news, media, images, etc.) and do not think about them.

Rather seek to dissociate from the coarseness of the physical world.

For in connecting to them, one coarsens one’s soul. Our Sages say, “Gazing brings to recalling and lusting.”
This was the sin of the Eitz-Hadas – for as Adam looked at it, it caused Him to want it.

{Today when the industry of images and clickbait is so rife, never mind the media which is pernicious, one must be exceptionally vigilant!! It goes without saying that to gaze at inappropriate images which unfortunately are rife is to degrade one’s soul and sensitivity towards spirituality.}  

5 Tzavaas Harivash

• Torah – Life (Direction)
  
  

When one studies Torah, then when during the day something occurs and one is unsure what to do, one can discern based on the subject matter of the Torah that they studied what they should do. 

This works when one is continually attached to G-d, for then they can have this perception.

But if one is not fully attached, this perception is not granted.  

31 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Discerning Your Desires

The Baal Shem Tov quotes in the name of the Ramban, “One who wishes to serve G-d in all their ways, namely that their life should be for the sake of G-d and not merely self-gratification then whenever a pleasurable opportunity comes to them whether in the realm of physical or spiritual (as pleasure is the great seducer of logic and ethics towards fulfilling your desire) one should first imagine that this pleasurable thing will give you no pleasure at all! Then you should think if you still want to do it…?
Only then you will be able to discern objectively by “scanning” both the “do” and “don’t do” option what is right. and your decision shall be accurate.”

This is a great principle in life.  

150 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Discerning
  
  

The Kabbalah teaches us that “Everything is rectified through wisdom.”

First and foremost, this means that it is only through wisdom and analysis that a person can see the difference between good and evil.

Without proper discernment, a person certainly cannot see the difference between right and wrong, and thereby discern the proper choice.

If for example, a person thinks about money during prayer, the reason they had this thought is that they love money – now the aspect of love is a good thing, the fact that it is a desire for money is bad; however they can then use this love for G-d, and in this way, the positive thought and positive love join, and the negative side falls away (this is not to denigrate money, rather as long as it’s in a positive context.)

When you don’t pay attention to and in fact despise the evil part (for example in marital love there is the holy and unholy aspect) then the unholy part falls off, for whatever a person despises leaves them.

The same is true if we G-d-forbid despise ourselves and don’t appreciate our own value then we don’t appreciate the value of our prayers and our Divine service. In this way we fall and have no discernment in our service of G-d.

This is why Tzaddikim, Chassidim, good people, sometimes need to elevate their ego as this causes them to have a greater focus in serving G-d.

This is why the Sages praised Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai greatly.

As He was the greatest Tzaddik, He had to descend very low in order to elevate all the low thoughts and speech of the people.  The praise He received from the Sages gave Him a greater self-esteem, which allowed Him to elevate Himself and thereby serve G-d better.  

7 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Torah Diveikus – Attached
  
  

When one is speaking they should only consider their attachment to G-d.  

During study, however, one must contemplate the subject matter – as such one cannot be focused on Divine attachment.  

But the Torah study itself connects them to G-d.

We must always engage in Torah study, for “It is a tree of life to those who hold onto her.”

When one is chatting, and in their mind they are connected to G-d (Diviekus) one must be very careful to not lose focus.  

30 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Diveikus – Attachment
  
  

This world is compared to a wedding. There are many difficulties in getting to the actual marriage.  

Similarly, the entire world is just like a wedding, where the main goal is the word “Li,” “You are betrothed Li / to me.“

This world is where we create Divine attachment (marriage). 

22 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Diveikus – Connecting G-d, Jew, Torah
  
  

The letters of the Torah are the “containers” and “rooms” of G-d.

When a person concentrates in prayer, they draw within the “containers” and “rooms” the brilliant Divine light, as the Torah and G-d are one.

In this, one must place all of one’s focus.

If one places one’s soul into these light filled rooms, this combines the Jew with the other two, as the teaching goes “G-d, the Torah, and the Jew are one.” 

Note 32 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Diveikus – Connecting to G-d
  
  

Everything in this world can be united to the Divine (through figuring out its meaningful purpose.)  

102 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Diveikus – Divine Connection

Attach your thoughts to G-d – do not eat, drink, or indulge more than is necessary for health.  

5 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Diveikus – Using Your Body
  
  

“The Tzaddik is aware of his animal soul.”  In other words, H uses even Hs animal soul in the service of G-d. 

{We must engage our animal soul (instincts) in the service of G-d.} 

99 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Divine Communication
  
  

Every day G-d announces, “Woe to those who embarrass the Torah.”

If no-one hears the announcement then what difference do they make?

The answer is that the announcement is not referring to speech. The world above is a world of thought (knowing…) so it really means that every day people get messages from G-d in their thoughts, and they must adhere to them.

{This is very important, for there is a well-known principle of the Baal Shem Tov called Hashgachah Pratis, that G-d continually communicates messages – the Rebbe furthers this by saying, it is not only in what we see and hear (that a message can always be discerned) but occasionally the message is through thoughts which enter our mind.}

8 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Divine GPS
  
  

Wherever we go, we should walk directed by G-d.  

{The main thing is to use “The Divine GPS” Hashgacha Pratis – See #467 Divine Communication.}

69 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Divine GPS
  
  

When you give your thoughts to G-d… that G-d should send you thoughts of what you should do, as it says, “Place upon G-d your package (troubles…”) and when one seeks a Chassidic way, then presumably what you are thinking comes from G-d.
  

{At a certain stage you should be confident that G-d is directing you and hence you should certainly follow.}

53 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Divine GPS
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov’s ultimate goal was that G-d’s “Infinite Light,” should reside within.

{In other words, we should be able to receive and follow personal Divine guidance.}  

364 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Divine Hints – Direction
  
  

We find that Arab kings (this perhaps was in the olden days, though they still act like this today namely they don’t command but) merely allude (hint their instructions.). 

Similarly, from time to time, positive ideas pop into a person’s head – these are hints from G-d.

{We must pay attention to “random” Divine thoughts that are giving us valuable direction!}

146 Kesser Shem Tov

•   Divine Vengeance

It states “Any Talmid Chochom (Tzaddik) who doesn’t take vengeance like a snake is no Talmid Chochom.”

The Baal Shem Tov queries this… isn’t taking vengeance forbidden? 

He explains that the analogy is “like a snake” – a snake only bites and (kills G-d-forbid) if this was G-d’s will.

{The only time appropriate to lash out is if it is commanded by G-d; not one’s ego.}    

19 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Just Do – Naaseh Vnishma
  
  

By “just doing it,” whether it is in Prayer or Torah and even physical needs, we then arrive at the understanding of how to do it properly (in our Service of Hashem.)

302 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Dreams – Transforming
  
  

Yirmiyahu (Jeremiah) the prophet was punished for He heard bad prophecies (negative decrees against the Jews) but didn’t pray for them, in contrast, Yeshayahu did.

We have the power to flip negative to positive.  For example, someone can have a negative dream and interpret it in a positive way…

{As much as possible reinterpret negative to positive – this can change the prophecy. And thereby of-course generally you will have a positive not negative perception, hence feeling, hence life.}  

41 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Educate

The Baal Shem Tov said that whoever passes without a son, cannot ascend above…

But if he has a son, and the son does not behave properly, this causes a detriment to the soul – but if one’s son is righteous, this causes an elevation to the soul of their father.  

25 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Educating
  
  

If one needs to educate their fellow man / citizen etc. one must first connect oneself to G-d. 

Then, one should feel connected to the people.  

For we all have one Source / G-d. (This message seems to relate especially to the leaders of the people (“Rebbes” etc.))

When one connects first, then “G-d your L-rd is with you,” and you will rise with them in uplifting everyone to G-d.  

And the same mechanism applies to how you pray for your people (by first connecting to them.)

81 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Education
  
  

There are two types of farmers – one sows many seeds over a vast quantity of land… the other makes little mounds and gingerly sows each and every seed, and treats them like his own child. 

The former does reap a large bounty, but what he reaps has worms and mold, and the seeds produce in a similar vein. 

The latter only has a little harvest which yields wonderful fruit, however the seeds do so as well!

{In education, quality is key!}    

32 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Education

The following teaching was taught by the Rebbe Rasha’b who was not sure if it was from the Maagid or the Baal Shem Tov and I have paraphrased the idea:
“Better to not learn! than to learn what is evil.”

{In modern times in which nihilistic antisemitic anti-civilization  anarchist ideologies have infiltrated western schools, media and domains,  far better your child doesn’t go to school (if they teach this) or see the internet or media (that promote this) for a bad education is far worse than no education!
 
At least lacking evil education, the innate dignity, humanity and basic decency and sanity of the individual remain intact.}  

216 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• P Education

In His travels as a Hidden-Tzaddik, the Baal Shem Tov would often put his Holy Hand on the hearts of children and say, “May you grow up to be a warm (good, passionate) Jew.”

{This is a great goal of education, as the Rebbe says, our goal is to raise children to love and fear  G-d.} 

287 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Education – From Love
  
  

The only way to educate is when it comes from unconditional love.

{Criticism is actually a form of abuse / shaming and it is not productive – Inspiration is the key.}  

262 Kesser Shem Tov

• Education – Young
  
  

When the young listen to the elders the world is stable, but if the opposite occurs, then the world is unstable! 

{Be not enamored – in fact the downfall of all civilizations – by newfangled pernicious instinctual gratification “ideologies.”}

3 Emor– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Ego – Ignore
  
  

When you embark on doing a good thing, worry not about the Yetzer Hara’s devious scheme (to get you to not do it) by saying that this will lead you to arrogance… 

Ignore him and push forward with alacrity and love, and even if it does bring some arrogance, do it anyway! and eventually you will do it altruistically.

{As the Rebbe said: first do good, then work on humility.}  

201 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Elevate
  
  

When Abraham came to Egypt He said, “Now I see that you are a beautiful woman.”

Had He never seen His wife before?  

The answer is that Abraham always had His thoughts in a holy place.

But going down to Egypt which was the place where the generation of the flood denigrated their consciousness into less than they were… Like the pursuit of lewdness etc.

As such going into Egypt, Abraham needed to elevate – which was the purpose of the Jews who were there, as the Jewish people were always moral despite the immorality of Egypt, so Abraham elevated the consciousness into morality.

{The job of the Jewish people is to elevate the consciousness of humanity.}  

12 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Elevating – Connecting
  
  

We must include our animal soul in serving G-d!

{We don’t need to separate – rather use! the physical for the spiritual / the will of G-d.}

187 Breishis Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Elevating – Generation

The whole universe is a single body and one “face.” This is in the secret of Olam (space) Shana (time) Nefesh (souls.   “Time, Space, Souls” is the essence of our reality.)

As in the individual, similarly in the macrocosm.

In each person, there is the body and soul, and similarly in every generation the Torah scholars are the Tzurah, “form” / spirit, and everyone else is the body. 

When the soul is special, likewise is the body (and it also works the other way.)

As Moses was spiritually knowledgeable, likewise His generation.

So to uplift your generation, you must first fix yourself (this is regarding the Torah scholars… that your body should merge with your soul.)

This will automatically inspire them (for they are included in you.)

And then it will be easy to cause them to get their body to merge with their soul.

7 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Elevating Silliness  

“Please take your son, your only son Yitzchok, and offer Him as a sacrifice.” 

Yitzchok comes from the word “laughter” – when we rejoice in G-d and good things we elevate the silliness of youth and teenage laughter.  

15 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Emotions
  
  

One must know what arrogance is, but not be arrogant; know what anger is but not be angry; and similarly with all emotions, for a person must be complete (have the knowledge of them, hence the ability to use all emotions.)
We find by G-d there is completion – there is Chessed and Din (Kindness and strictness.)
 
{One must have the capacity to exercise the necessary emotion at the necessary time. Unlike illusion / fantasy utopistic “ideologies,” all emotions, even strictness, has a time and place.}

221 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Emotions – Choosing

The Baal Shem Tov taught that emotions contrast each other (good and bad): arrogance / humility – tough / gentle – generous / stingy… 
 
The negative emotions exist not only to offer man free-choice (to choose good over evil) but each negative emotion has a positive application, for example being proud of one’s Divine service,  using strength for G-d,  and even at times being tough for good reason.

{This is an exceptionally important teaching for it is human nature to create a “good / bad” perception of reality, whereas every bad intrinsically has a good application – and your job is to discern judiciously.}

42 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• P\ Emotions – Prayer
  
  During prayer, we traverse spiritual chambers (levels in Heaven.)
   
  If during prayer one has a “Machshava Zara” (sinful or distracting thought) one should be highly embarrassed. 
   
  This is a sign that he or she is being banished from that chamber. 
   
  If you are not praying passionately, start! (As this can help you overcome the distracting thoughts.)
   
  If however, you are praying passionately, then inspect the emotion of this distracting thought.
   
  If it is a bad love / lust, return the emotion to its source, namely the love of G-d.
   
  There are only seven types of thoughts: These are the seven days of creation and in every day there is evening and morning.
   
  Evening “Erev” also means mixed – that we mix in an impure thought (into our pure mind and souls.)
   
  “Boker” morning, also means that we visit (“Bikur”) G-d, and seek Him.
   
  These are the Morning / “Bikur” and Evening / “Erev” (of thoughts)
   
  Love of G-d vs love of sins.
  Fear of G-d vs bad fears, such as hate.
  Praising: either G-d vs oneself.
  Victory (for G-d vs one’s selfish desire.)
  Gratitude (to G-d vs seeking it for self.)
  Connection (to G-d vs seeking people.)
  Each of these is comprised of all ten Sefiros.
   
  If we have a negative desire this gives energy to the evil seven nations.
   
  …If one has a lustful thought during prayer then one should say to oneself, “How have I taken a part of ‘the world of thought’ and placed it into the place of filth.”
   
  In this way, one humbles oneself to the ground, and brings this thought to the level of nothingness, and then brings it back to the world of love, by saying, “If I can love this physical thing such as the woman’s body which comes from a putrid drop, how much more so can I love G-d!”
   
  Similarly if one receives pleasure from hearing a joke, one can say this comes from the world of love… And if someone eats something tasty, say, “This is part of the world of Divine pleasure,” and therefore be careful to not denigrate the pristine world of pleasure (with foolish pleasures.)
   
  Rather return this food to the world of Divine pleasure where it comes from. So while you may be eating on earth, you are feeling Divine pleasure.
   
  If you see someone you are afraid of, say to yourself, “Why should I fear this person? Is he not a person like me? – And certainly, this applies to an animal… The source of this fear is a Divine fear that you are feeling within this person (or animal,)  infinitely more so, must I fear G-d.”
   
  Similarly with praise – if someone is praising you, consider how humble you must be before G-d (who is everywhere.)
   
  And if you are dealing with the emotion of victory – be victorious over this emotion itself (to not use it for selfish, but selfless reasons.)
   
  Similarly with gratitude and connection – be connected to G-d Himself.

87 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Essence – Love
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov revealed:

1. Love of G-d
2. Love for The Torah
3. And love for one’s fellow –

Are All One!
  

357 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Ethics – Business
  
  

To G-d, a person who does business ethically is very precious, even dearer than the one studying these laws.

24 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Everything – Elevating
  
  

Every single thing that G-d created, including every word in the Torah, has both the aspect of how it can be used for kindness or Din (harsh judging).

(For example, I can see money as charity or “mine.”)

The trick is to see the good.

{In everything, discern its positive benefit.}  

2 Chayei Sara– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Evil – Converting It

When you see or hear something wrong in another, know that even partially you have that issue in you. 

You should then include the other in your soul and rectify it, and through this, you rectify it universally.  

89 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Fasting
  
  

If a person feels the need to rectify their soul through fasting, they may do so if they believe this is what their soul needs – though fasting has a deleterious effect.

(Namely, the pain from fasting makes it difficult to serve G-d (joyfully) which is of primary importance.)

The justification for this is, as a person knows the needs of their soul – and the same thing applies to other (extra) customs that a person may feel the need to do (as it will help them spiritually.)

{Chassidus generally frowns upon fasting, and encourages other means such as charity or refraining from ill-speech etc. However, a powerful lesson is a person must understand their spiritual needs.}  

56 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Fasting – Substitute
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov taught that far better than fasting, which weakens the body, is putting effort into praying and learning Torah which grows a person.  

219 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Overcoming Fear

If one encounters a bad person who one fears, one should try to see to it that they hear the person talk (or one can engage them in some conversation…) and this will eliminate their fear.

{Fear lurks in the unknown. It may also be helpful to imagine a conversation with the individual.}

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•   Prayer (Katnus/Gadlus)

There is Katnus (constricted fear-based thinking) and Gadlus (expansive love-based thinking) in all three dimensions of time, space, and soul.

When a person can take pleasure in their prayers – as the world is in an expansive state… there is no greater joy.
 
When the world is in a state of constriction / katnus, then in fact the main Avodah (service of G-d) is to serve and reach higher heights (expansiveness) during constricted-minded times.

14 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Total Loss
  
  

“For a peshah, for an ox, a donkey, a sheep, an article of clothing, anything that is lost.”  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that “Peshah” stands for “Prikois Shel Oil” / “doing whatever you want” (in contrast to doing the Heavenly Will).

In everything there is frivolity.  

How is it that a Jew could be frivolous?  

His body was born in purity through a Kosher Mikvah.  

The fact that the 40 sah (the quantity of water in the Mikvah) makes one pure is absolutely true; this is in fact what creates Kabbalas-Oil (accepting the Heavenly will).  

We know that Angels warm themselves up through the steam rising from the Mikvah, and when the soul comes into the body at conception, Angels escort it – so how does a soul end up frivolous?!

The answer is “For an ox” – an ox is the Yetzer Hara (whose source is in “the celestial ox.”)

“For a donkey” – a donkey is cold, it cools off the spiritual passion.

“For a sheep” – a sheep wanders, which refers to the fact that instead of being focused, the person spreads himself everywhere… hence he wants everything, and he feels he needs it all!

“For a garment” – this refers to what a person thinks, speaks, and does.

“Anything that is lost…” Through doing this a person loses

everything and doesn’t know who they are!

{In other words, if a person allows their Yetzer Hara influence over themselves, lacks passion for G-d,  lacks focus in life,  indulges in whatever they want,  and is not careful in their thoughts, speech, and action – through this one loses themselves.}  

20 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Focus
  
  

A human being who is made up of a composite of good and evil can never always be good (even holy people).
We always rise and fall.

The trick is that when you are high, before you fall (or even descend to help people lower) you must first deeply connect to G-d.

As in the example of the minister who had to go to a distant land to save a prince that had fallen and forgotten that he was a prince. So the minister dressed up as a peasant in order to ingratiate himself with the prince (who now saw himself as a peasant). But in order to recall who he really is (namely a minister on a mission) he first deeply connected to his mission.

  {Realize you are a soul, here to make the world brighter and better.}

19 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Singular “Addiction”
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov says that the purpose of man is to rid himself of these vile traits: anger, lust, sadness, and frivolousness (“having fun”).

When we transition out of our negative impulses and have but one “addiction” (G-d), then G-d blesses us.  

4 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Food
   
   

The Maagid observed that immediately as the Baal Shem Tov ate, He elevated the food into holiness.

{In general, when we eat we must know there are Divine sparks within that we elevate!} 

10 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro)

1.  Food
   
   

How does the soul which is spiritual get nourished from food which is physical?
 
When G-d made the universe, He created ten energetic sources for all of creation (called “The Ten Sayings,” so “Let there be light” is the energy which makes the light,)
 
These energies (Divinity) remain imbued within the physical matter. 

When a person says a blessing, it sparks the Divinity inside which is creating the food – say the matter of the apple – and it then nourishes the individual’s soul. 

An example of this is a king who lost a precious stone from his signet ring.

Now this beloved king had tens of thousands of ministers and soldiers etc. who would gladly try to find it and he trusted them, but he desired that his precious son should have the merit (and that He the father, the pride in his success.) So he gave the task to his son to find the ring (similarly we are privileged to be the ones to elevate these Sparks.)

{The Holy Baal Shem Tov says that water may wait a thousand years, like a prince chained in a dungeon, till a Jew takes a sip and makes a blessing.

My mother (Zol-Zien-Gezunt) is friendly with a lady who works at the FDA and she told her that when they break down food to its smallest particle what is left is a point of light!

The Rebbe teaches that those who follow Kabbalah – before every bite they take, they say to G-d, “Thanks!” (and I assume this elevates the food.)}  

2 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Food
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov says that even when food is on the table, it is not possible to eat it until G-d commands to.  

4 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Physical to Spirit

“Turn away from evil and do good, pursue peace and chase after it.”

In every physical thing, there is good and evil:

The physicality of it is evil, and the Divine energy which is its source is good.

So, we must “Turn away from evil…”

In other words do not use the physical thing for its taste, beauty, or pleasure, rather only seek to be sustained through the Divine energy (for when one makes a blessing, the Divine spark in the food shoots into their soul.)  

One must constantly seek to make peace / unity between the physical object and the Divine life-force that causes / creates / vivifies it. (In other words, by connecting to the spiritual part of food, for-example appreciating that “It is the Divinity that is coming through it which is giving me life!” this fulfills its purpose.)      

61 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  Gazing
   
   

Do not look at people as you speak to them if their thoughts are not connected to G-d – as this will cause a degradation in your soul.

In contrast, if their thoughts are connected to G-d, you should look at them, and this will imbue within you holiness.

50 Tzavaas Harivash

1.  G-d Cares
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov explains that each one of the four species has a separate rank in its importance in Heaven – though a human is the greatest, G-d’s supervision extends to every single micro detail.
(We know from science, for example what would happen if two electrons or protons would collide…) Now if G-d’s supervision extends to the little leaf’s journey in the wind traveling from one place to another, how much infinitely more so does it apply to the journey of each of our lives!?!  

181 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  G-d’s Pride
   
   

G-d cannot brag, for no one can understand Him – therefore He brags about the greatness of His children- as a father takes pleasure in the greatness of his son, and this is the pleasure G-d derives from His creation.

4 Ki Savoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Genuine
   
   

The main thing is that your service to G-d / Avodah should always be authentic (which we can verify if we act in private as we do in public.)

{G-d is authentic and cherishes authenticity.}  

1 Bamidbar– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Getting Up
   
   

Whenever a person wishes to get out of bed, the Yetzer Hara will try to get the person to go back to sleep. We should choose to do something (after Modeh Ani and Negel Vaaser) for the body (which will encourage a person to get up for their own pleasure) and then go to our spiritual service.  

82 Veschanan – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Give Passionately
   
   

What makes a miracle a miracle is its uniqueness. The first time you see a natural phenomenon you call it a miracle, the second time you call it nature.

Similarly, we should pray that our life of goodness and giving should not be rote, but always feel like new!  

119 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Be Kind
   
   

See to it that your behavior is always kind and compassionate.  

Intro. Kesser Shem Tov

1. Others Faults = Your Growth
   
   

When we see something negative in another there is a benefit, for if a person was always by themselves, they would assume they are a Tzaddik… Now although what another may be pointing out – or perhaps faults you see in another – may not be fully true, nonetheless on some level you have this fault. Therefore every person (even “bad”) can be a source of your personal growth (through discerning what you can work on.)

302 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Grow
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov was teaching His disciples when they were disturbed by a knock on the shutter. A peasant, hauling a cart of tools, peered through the window. “Need any fixing?” he cried. “Any shaky tables, broken chairs? A loose brick in the hearth, perhaps?”
“No, no,” came the impatient reply from within, where all were eager to get on with the interrupted lesson. “Everything is in perfect condition. There’s no need for any repairs.”
“Indeed? Nothing to repair?” called the peasant. “That simply cannot be. Look well, and you’re sure to find something that needs fixing!”

The Baal Shem Tov then addressed His students: “Many times have I taught you that nothing is by chance in G‑d’s world; that every event and experience is purposeful, that everything one sees or hears is a lesson for one’s service of the Almighty. Think of the words we just heard from this simple peasant. How profoundly relevant they are to each and every one of us! Is everything really in perfect condition? At times it might seem so; but if one truly searches his heart and evaluates his life, is he not sure to find something that requires repair…?”

{The Rebbe told Rabbi Feller that whoever shares this story does Him a personal favor.}

From The Chassidic Masters

1. Passion For G-d
   
   

“And the Angel of G-d appeared to Him; A flame of fire amidst the burning thornbush – behold the thornbush was burning but it was not consumed.” 

Moses said, “Let me turn aside and see this amazing site.”  

The Targum (Aramaic translator) translates, “And the Angel of G-d was revealed to Moses in the flame in the thornbush.”  

The idea of revelation is that it appears to each person based on their individual capacity to receive it.  

This means that even a person of limited capacity can still benefit from revelation, for revelation comes from G-d who is unlimited (hence can reach and teach everyone in their own unique way).  

The Targum translates the words “And G-d descended on Mount Sinai” (the great revelation), “And G-d revealed Himself on Mount Sinai.”

The revelation of Sinai had a simultaneous effect on the highest to the lowest person. (As the Medrash tells us, each person said, “The Voice is speaking directly to me!”)

Rashi comments on the Revelation of the Angel “in the flame” of fire in the thornbush, “In the heart (of fire).”

In other words, where does G-d reveal Himself?   

In the heart that has passion – the sincere heart.  

Rashi says that the reason the revelation was in such a lowly thornbush is to show how G-d is with those in distress (Tzarah).

This world is called a distressed constricted world, in contrast to the bright higher worlds. In those worlds, the translucent Divine energy radiates, but in this world, the light is concealed through the cloak of nature (whose habituation creates the appearance of a lack of Divinity.)

It is our job, through passionate Torah and Mitzvahs, to light up this world.  

It states, “Man is like the tree of the field;” this refers to the Sages, but there is another “tree,” the thornbush.  

Both have (or are referred to as) fire.  

But there is a difference; for the scholars who satisfy their spiritual hunger within the Divine intellectual pursuits are not like a burning flame. But the simple pious Jew who prays and says Tehillim, without understanding the words, has an ever-present fire for G-d!  

So Moses said, “Let me turn aside and see this amazing site!”  

In other words, understanding the great sight, that the true everlasting flame for G-d is in the heart of the simple pious person, Moses decided to turn aside from His level, to this higher level.

Now obviously a Tzaddik like Moses was all good, however, He realized that one must continually ascend.  

{The Friediker (Previous) Rebbe explains that this means one must realize that “Today must be far better than yesterday, and tomorrow even better.”}

18 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Higher Consciousness
   
   

The way we overcome the Kelipah and separate the bad from the good, thereby elevating the good and eliminating the bad, as well as eliminating negative emotions and desires from ourselves, and come to serve G-d with a pure heart – is by first and foremost knowing that G-d is literally in everything, and behind every single movement and action! 

If this consciousness was deeply sensed, one would attain all positive characteristics, including a humble heart, filled with love of G-d and the Jewish people, and one wouldn’t become angry nor petty.

And through this, one separates the good from the evil, in all times and places.  

Note 89 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Growing In Altruism
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example from making wine:  When one makes wine, there is a lot of sediment in the first batch. 

When one strains the wine and pours this batch into a new container, then in the second container there will also be sediment but less so. 

The same process continues onward…

As we begin serving G-d there are a lot of kelipos (ego etc.)
And then as we grow we must examine ourselves to see if there was any personal agenda in our service (even for Heaven / reward etc.).

Eventually, a person serves G-d with ever selfless reasons.  

10 Ki Tovo– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Emotion Growth
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov teaches as mentioned in the Zohar, that each of the six days of the week represent one of the six emotions – Chessed on Sunday, Yirah on Monday etc.  Every day we must analyze our emotion (of love, fear, compassion, strength (victory), sensitivity, morality (Yesoid)) which occurs that day of the week to improve it.
 
In the early years (of His leadership) the Baal Shem Tov would clear His schedule, spending an hour or two every day to focus on rectifying and improving each emotion until it was pure and beautiful.
 
On Shabbos holiness comes to each person based on their level.

Before Shabbos (at Mincha) we should then review all of our emotions.

{In other words, take time each weekday to visualize how is your Love, Fear (Discipline), Compassion, Strength, Sensitivity / Gratitude, Morality? And then on Friday before Shabbos review all your emotions, and rectify.}

Note 28 Yisroi – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Harness Yourself
   
   

It doesn’t take a genius to break (control) one’s instincts, for any normal mind dictates this necessity…  

However what a wise person does is harness the instincts – for as it states, “There is much power in the impulse (yield of the ox.)”
Therefore through guiding one’s emotions to good causes, one harnesses their extraordinary energy.  

116 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Don’t Wallow

A great principle in serving G-d is to stay far away from sadness (for serving G-d requires energy.)

Therefore, the Yetzer Hara (who seeks to disturb our service) often makes a person feel guilty over minor details.

A person should say, “I don’t care about this, as my entire goal in life is to make G-d happy, which requires the ability to be free from guilty feelings so that I can serve Him constantly.”

153 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Stay Away From Guilt

Do not be overly righteous in everything you do…this is a trick of the Yetzer Hara to cause you to be afraid (cuasing you to worry that maybe you shall sin.) His real intention is to make you sad so you do have not the energy to serve G-d.

Even if you have sinned, do not allow this to cause you sadness!

Feel bad and move on.

As soon as one regrets and repents, the sin is removed – now return to serving G-d joyfully!

Even if you know there is a genuine Mitzvah you cannot perform, do not be upset for G-d knows your heart and positive intention.

Rejoice in G-d as it states, “Sometimes the way to serve G-d is through not doing the Torah.”

Sometimes the Mitzvah is to do something that has a bit of an Aveirah / sin.

Listen not to the Yetzer Hara that tries to get you to not do the Mitzvah.

Say to the Yetzer Hara, “the only reason I seek to do this Mitzvah is to give G-d joy” and in this statement, the Yetzer Hara will please G-d leave you alone (nonetheless, discern if you should or shouldn’t do this Mitzvah…) 

154 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Hachnasas Oirchim – Hosting
   
   

The Mitzvah of Hachnasas Oirchim (inviting in guests cheerfully, joyfully, and with respect) merits that a couple will have a son born to them.  

75 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Halacha Education
   
   

We must teach Halacha (Jewish law) to our children, for without knowing the laws, the Torah gets forgotten – and certainly, adults must also learn Halacha.  

423 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Be Happy
   
   

The main thing is to remove sadness and always strive to be happy 😊

302 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Be Happy – Forgive
    

The main thing is to be happy 😊 and remove sadness from yourself.

There are two kinds of doctors: One who hands out bitter pills; the other uses sweet.

Our goal is not to be judgmental but rather to realize that in everything we see, within it there is a hidden good for us… for even criticism (although it may not be fully true) but at least prevents us from having an overblown ego.

302 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Hashgachah Pratis – Divine Lessons

The Baal Shem Tov said that everything one sees and hears, is a positive lesson in one’s Divine service, and Divine service includes discerning in everything one sees and hears what is the Divine message.

224 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Hashgachah Pratis – Divine Lessons
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov said that every Jew goes through a rich world filled with Divine messages (and we must pray to comprehend them.)  

225 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  How To Get Heaven – Uplifting
   
   

The way to get (rewarded with) Heaven is through uplifting, inspiring, and rejoicing others!  

375 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Honor
   
   

Once the Baal Shem Tov arrived somewhere where they showed Him great respect.
He said to them “When people give another honor, then in Heaven they check his deeds (to see if he is worthy…) as such it would appear that they are doing this person a disservice!  However, a wise person uses this opportunity to repent.”  

{In other words, if you receive honor – repent.}

7 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Hosting

We know Avrohom interrupted speaking to G-d to invite guests.

From here our Sages deduce that “Inviting guests is greater than receiving the Divine.” 

Now we realize how important hosting guests is! for even if it may mean a waste of Torah study, or the occasional Lashoin Hara at the table, it is even greater!

{From here we deduce that we must be into inviting guests!}  

1 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Humility
    

“From Ayin my salvation will come.”
 
When we humble our hearts to the point of Ayin/nothingness, salvation comes.

Note 18 Metzoira – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Humble is Great
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov teaches us that our eyes lie.  

In truth, those who seem on top are not high, and those who seem humble, are (high.)   

{In fact Chassidus teaches us that the Cheit Etz Hadas (eating the forbidden fruit) that caused Adam / man to fall was actually peering at the realm of evil, characterized by arrogance;   “the eye sees, the heart desires” and the soul falls.   In actual fact as the teaching “Those who are arrogant below are low Above (in Heaven) and those who are low (humble) below, are high Above.”  As Kabbalah teaches, “those that see themselves a great are small, and those who see themselves as small are very great.”}

97 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Overcoming Idolatry
   
   

For anyone who thinks about idolatry, the Baal Shem Tov recommends inducing diarrhea (and there is a Kabbalistic reason).  

413 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  Don’t Copy

When instead of working on improving oneself, one is imitating others… as in the Talmudic statement, “Many tried to achieve as Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, but for them, it didn’t work…”  one loses both their own level, and achieves not the others’.  

{In other words, serve G-d from your level / station.}

178 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Infinite Growth

“He walks and cries carrying the seed – He will come in joy.”

This means that if one goes from Divine level to level, and continuously seeks more, this person allows for the infinite seed of Divinity to continuously inspire him.

However, a person who feels, “I got it all… I have studied enough Torah and need no more…” they are carrying Kelipah (darkness).

16 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Influencing
   
   

Once there was a prince whom the king sent away to learn how others live, but eventually he succumbed to their lowly lifestyle. The king sent ministers to bring him back, but he was content. 

Eventually, one wise person decided to get the prince back, so he dressed up as one of the low people and then ingratiated himself with the prince and convinced him to return.  

{To influence others we need sometimes to don their clothing.}

260 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Inspiration

The Baal Shem Tov said, what does it mean, “Cast me not aside in old age?”

Does a person not need G-d when they are young?! 

Rather at times a person can get inspired… teaches the Baal Shem Tov, “Don’t let that inspiration fade!”

68 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Inspiring

If a person wishes to inspire another, they must use parables from the mindset that the other is in.  

8 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Integrity
   
   

Fortunate is a man who is their true self!

81 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Truthfulness

Even if there are liars, thieves, and corruption in a city or country, and there is a single Tzaddik who studies Torah and does Mitzvos sincerely and is truthful, this redeems everyone!

{Focus not on the corruption;  Focus on being good, honest, truthful, and Divine, and G-d will redeem.}

93 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Sincerity
   
   

“Be complete with G-d your L-rd,” explains the Baal Shem Tov, this means always be complete with your inner heart / intent.  

10 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  All For G-d

“Everything that you can do, do.” 

We must do things intentionally.

Everything we do, whether eating, drinking, etc. we must intend to do it for G-d.

(If we don’t, we separate the realm of thought from the realm of action.)

{In other words, in everything that we do, there is a G-dly purpose which we should intend to do it for.}

Note 154 Bereishis– Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Kindness to G-d
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov explained the teaching of our Sages: “There are three signs (qualities) of the Jewish people: merciful, bashful, and kind.”

Merciful: We have mercy upon our soul which descended from the highest Heavenly heights to be clothed in the world of darkness, in a physical corporeal body. (Which for her is an extraordinarily painful experience like going from being a prince to a beggar. As such we redeem her through studying Torah and doing Mitzvos.)  
  
Bashful: We feel bashfulness before the Divine Light, which hovers over our head and hence we improve.
   
Kind: We allow the Divine Being on the Heavenly Throne to inspire, educate, and guide us. (“Doing a kindness to Him.”)

103 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. You Create Cosmic Reactions

The Baal Shem Tov taught that a person doesn’t fulfill their service to G-d due to their humility. They don’t realize how the entire Heavenly realm (all the Angels etc.) receive their nourishment from Your Torah and Prayers (for this causes the light of Heaven!)

If a person truly believed this, he would constantly serve G-d with great joy and trepidation.  

And he would be careful in every letter and movement to do and say them properly, and with great fervor. 

One should also pay heed to what King Solomon teaches, that G-d kisses and longs for every word of prayer and Torah. 

If one truly integrates this belief – who would not tremble over the fact that the Great and Mighty King awaits your words? 

A person should pay heed and realize that he is like a ladder with his feet on the ground and his head in the Heavens. And everything he does and says makes a powerful impact in Heaven. Then certainly one will be careful that all they do will be Lisheim Shamayim (altruistically for G-d).)

But if a person feels, “Who am I to affect anything above or below?” they will go willy-nilly after their foolish whims.

The truth is that a person, through his actions, is completely attached to G-d, as it states: “Imitate G-d.”

And through having compassion below, you cause compassion in all the Heavenly realms!  

137 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Income

The Baal Shem Tov said if G-d gives you a keli (opportunity, say business or job) do not break it (give it up).

If however G-d takes it away, it is only to give you a better.

Heard from Rabbi Yosef Wineberg OB”M

1. Be Happy!
   
   

Always be happy 😊 

Believe and know that the Shechinah is continually with you and protecting you. 

You are peering at G-d, and G-d is peering at you.

G-d can do whatever He desires – in just one second, He can G-d-forbid destroy all the universes or create all universes!

And from Him comes all blessings in the world, and the opposite G-d forbid – for in everything there is His life-force (so everything must be coming from Him) as such, “I only trust and have fear of Him.”

38 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Increasing Joy

A great meditation for increasing joy is the understanding that the Hebrew letters are Holy Souls, that descended (shattered) into the Kelipah to be the source of matter in this world.

And while they are shattered below in the realm of Kelipah they are called dead.
 
And this is why G-d has commanded us to study Torah and pray, for then we can elevate these letters back to the source.

And this is like the union of male and female, which creates the child.

And there can be no greater joy than this.

{When you are praying or studying Torah you are creating a Divine union.}  

Note 28 Veschanan – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Be HAPPY Tzaddikim!
   
   

When the heads of the generation (Tzaddikim) are joyous, this causes the entire generation to be joyous.

6 Ki Savoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. The Power Of Joy
   
   

Once the Baal Shem Tov after Yom Kippur was very down, as He foresaw that unless the Jews sanctified the moon, it may not be good… but the clouds were heavy and thick.

Several times He requested His disciples to see if the moon was visible, and He tried very hard through Holy mechanisms to elevate His mind and cause a miracle. Meanwhile, the disciples being unaware of this saga, were, per their custom ecstatic. 

To them, spending a Yom Tov by the Holy Baal Shem Tov was like being in the Beis Hamikdosh and the Baal Shem Tov was like the Cohen Gadol. 

As they danced with great joy they allowed their hearts to be brave and asked the Baal Shem Tov if He would join them in the dancing and from their great joy He too was uplifted – and the clouds parted. 

{From here we see that joy makes the Heaven part.}  

Note 6 Ki Tetzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. How To Be Happy
   
   

When we think about how low we are, this is called “concealment”  Gevurah.  

When we think about G-d’s tremendous kindness to us – this is called “joy” Chessed.

428 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Just DO Good
   
   

Even if you do a good thing with an ulterior motive – say a person is wealthy but wants more honor so he says, “I will go study Torah…” but also has in mind that he will benefit his fellow Jew by paying him to teach him, this is good!

For as we know, even actions not done fully for the sake of G-d, can and will be rectified (by later doing it with pure intent.)

{Never hold back from doing good because you are worried about arrogance.}

9 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Kabbalah

The Baal Shem Tov taught that when we study the works of Kabbalah, we must be very careful to strip the concepts from their corporeal examples.

Do not take it literally… (see the visuals as only examples!)  

71 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Don’t Teach Kabbalah
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov once criticized someone for teaching Kabbalah in public; “But the Master does this!” protested the person. 

“I teach in a way that people understand…” in other words, the secret of Kabbalah can be brought to the level where they relate – but if you simply say what is happening in the higher worlds, you cause that the spiritual seems physical.   

69 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Kabbalah – Don’t Study
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov suggests that one needs to be extraordinarily careful when studying Kabbalah to not associate the Divine names with limited attributes, and therefore, the average person should not study Kabbalah.

35 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Kelipah / The Dark Side = One Big Lie
   
   

“The King ordered Vashti to come unclothed.”  

Kelipah has no real identity – in order to appear as it exists it must attach itself to some sort of goodness (thereby claiming that it is “righteous” and hence superior.) But if one undresses the Kelipah, it ceases.

{For example, some Arabs claim Jews took their land which is a fabrication, as Arabs come from Arabia (and the fabrication that Arabs in Israel are Palestinians which would be the ancient Philistines is funny, for the Philistines disappeared as most local tribes in Israel did, 2,500 years ago) and Jews come from Judea, Israel. Terrorists are people who have, and desire to murder based on Islamic doctrine to take over the world, so by referring to Arab terrorists as islamic jihadists which is what they are, one undressed the false lie.}  

1 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Ketoires
    

The secret of the Ketoires (incense in the Beis Hamikdosh) is that it can get rid of a plague.  

7 Korach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Knife

The Baal Shem Tov says that we do not give others a knife as a present.  

Note 6– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Knowing

When a person desires to understand something and delves deeply into it, trying to understand it, they raise the concept to “the realm of thought,” and from there one draws from the Supernal wisdom and understanding!
 
{In other words, if you set your mind to understand something, G-d will assist.}  

44 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Knowing
   
   

When you learn something deep but don’t understand – this is the realm of Malchus.

But when you put a great effort into understanding it, penetrating to its depth… then you bind Malchus with Binah (which helps you understand it.)

45 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Kosher
   
   The Baal Shem Tov said that he had a “Questions & Answers” from the Rambam in his Seforim (book) collection. 
   A distant country sent a letter to the Rambam, and about 70,000 people signed it. The letter spoke about how Techiyas Hameisim (resurrection of the dead, which will occur when Moshiach soon comes) was not stated clearly in the Torah, therefore they chose to reject it. 
   The Rambam didn’t want to answer them and told His Disciple Ibn Taboon to write an answer. The essence of the answer was, “Because you doubt this principle of Jewish faith, your souls do not come from the sons of Abraham, Yitzchok, and Yaakov – rather the people of Sedom and Amorah.” For there are souls that come from Heaven, the earth, or the 7 “constellations,” etc.
   In fact, one can ask a question about creation, for as we know everything was made to be its specie, so why didn’t the earth envy Heaven? 
   The answer is that it was not given the wisdom to understand the greatness of Heaven.
   The reason for this is because there must be an earth. 
   
   The same thing is true with all creations, including people. There must be wicked and good and in-between.
    
   This is so one can see the benefit of good in contrast to bad. 
   
   But then one could ask, where is your free-choice?!
   
   However as you go against the teaching of our Sages, how are you to understand the answer to this question?!
   
   The soul of a person is blood, which is effectively derived from the refinement of food. There are many levels of refinement – first, there is the gall which places its juices into food in the stomach to separate the worst part which becomes excrement. The second separation is the excrement, the third is sweat. The fourth is hair and nails, and the fifth is the blood in the liver, and the best of this blood goes to the heart and then to the brain. This blood becomes the mind and the thoughts.  From your words, it seems that you reject the teachings of our Sages. This indicates that you have not been careful in eating only kosher food… As such your thoughts are going towards evil. Hence with your thoughts, you cannot discern the teachings of our Sages, whose hearts were like the expanse of the sea! 
   
   I know that as you’ve gone against the words of the Sages, punishment is going to come to you soon.
   
   And this is what happened. A king came and killed them. They in fact wanted to convert, but he didn’t accept it, because they had rejected Techiyas Hameisim. As nations of the world also believe in resurrection… so he rejected them.
   
   A few of them escaped, went to the Rambam, and did Teshuvah / Repented.
   
   {The lesson is that kosher food refines our perception and spiritual senses.}  

4 Haazinu– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Kosher
   
   

(The following is a bit of an expansion on the above.)

The Sages were exceptionally careful in their food, to only have holy (kosher – beneficial) food, which as mentioned previously, becomes the mind.

Therefore their minds were clear, and they were able to discern the depth of G-d’s wisdom.  

5 Haazinu – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Krias Shemah  – Bedtime Meditation
   
   

Before you go to sleep, you should induce upon yourself a great dread and reverence for G-d (as such, to sin (seminal emission) you shall not fall).  

74 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Learn From Everyone

We must learn from everyone, even a bad person (for there is good in everyone.) 

115 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  Lekach – Honey Cake
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov said that Lekach – Honey Cake causes our hearts to be drawn to Torah, as it is combined both from honey and flour which in their source are receptacles for Torah.  

207 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. CHALLENGES
   
   

From everything you must make a Yichud (Divine connection.)

Even if someone is disturbing you, or you see something negative in someone – understand that G-d is showing this to you for your benefit!  

115 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Learn From Everyone

The Mishna teaches “‘Learn From Everyone’ as the Verse states ‘From all my teachers I became wise.’”

Queries the Baal Shem Tov, there are qualities to a teacher (so are we meant to learn from bad people too?)

He explains:

“The candle of G-d is man’s soul.” A candle has both light as well as a shadow; the light comes from the candle, while the shadow comes from the candleholder which blocks the light rays.

Similarly, everyone’s soul shines light which is blocked by the body.

Hence when one is in the presence of a Tzaddik whose soul is brightly shining, they receive positive thoughts, but in the presence of a Rasha (wicked person) whose body is obscuring and hence radiates darkness, one receives negative thoughts.

As such the goal is to learn from the Tzaddikims’ positive traits, and become a person that benefits the public.

In contrast, from the Rasha, we learn what not to do!

This encourages us to do Teshuvah (repent.)

This is why it states a wise person learns from everyone, whether they are good or evil, for everything G-d made, He created it to teach us positive lessons (in life.)

As Rabbi Yochanan said, “If G-d (G-d-forbid) did not give the Torah to the Jewish people, we would learn Tznius (modesty) from a cat (that covers their excrement) and we would learn honesty from the weasel (that never steals.”)

Hence the wise person deduces lessons from everyone.

114 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Leviem

The Leveim redeem the world.  

6 Behar– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Lies

The Baal Shem Tov said to His disciples, “My children, just make sure you never lie, and from this, you will become great people.”  

13 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Life Purpose

The Baal Shem Tov says, The Kabbalah teaches us, that everything we do, we must do for the Divine soul within.

{We must acknowledge that within us is a soul of G-d whose desire is goodness, kindness, Torah, Mitzvos.}  

274 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Spread G-d’s Name
   
   

The verse states, “It will be when you come to the Eretz / Land.”

The Medrash teaches: Why is Israel called Eretz?

Because it is “rotz,” “runs” to do the will of Her Father in Heaven.  

The word Eretz also means desire (she desires to do the will of her Father in Heaven.)  

“It will be when you come to the land,”

in other words, when you will arrive at G-d’s intent (for you) “that G-d your Lord gives you as an inheritance” – for this is a present to every Jew (namely to run to do the will of your Father in Heaven!)

So, the Avodah (mechanism) in this should be, “You should settle” – you should bring this intent into practical methods.

“And you should take it and place it in the basket” you should take the light (inspiration) and put it into containers (actions).  

“And you should go to the place” – this is the idea of Divine supervision, “That G-d your Lord will choose;” for wherever a Jew goes is not circumstantial, rather Divinely ordained. 

And the purpose of going somewhere is “To spread His name there.”

To spread the knowledge of G-d.  

“When you will come” – in order to perceive the Divine intent in your life, you are to “spread His name there;” you must have sacrifice in spreading G-dliness.    

And how does one have sacrifice?  

This is done through saying a Brochoh / blessing or a verse in Tehillim.

(As the Rebbe Rashab explains, “On earth people marvel at wisdom, but in Heaven they marvel in simply saying the Holy Letters of prayer.”)

{In other words, the natural inclination of a Jew is to do the will of G-d however the secret of the soul coming to earth and wherever we find ourselves is to manifest G-d, by spreading His name; and we must do this with sacrifice which is through saying the holy words of Prayer and blessings.}

3 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

1. Prayer – Lisheim Yichud
   
   

“Lishem Yichud… for the sake of the unity of G-d and His Shechinah.”  

The idea behind this prayer is to bring Tifferes (pride) to Malchus. 

G-d wishes to be proud within Malchus, which is the lowest level (the world of speech).

For this level gives life to all worlds, as the verse states, “It is with the word of G-d the Heavens were created.” 

And it says, “And you give life to all.” The speech of G-d consistently gives life to all the worlds. 

And when a person does a Mitzvah, G-d takes pride in Malchus (His speech) – thereby giving life to all the worlds. 

And then the person brings the Malchus to G-d – meaning, G-d rejoices with the world of speech. 

And this is the unity of G-d and His Shechinah.

G-d takes pride in Malchus which is within the world, and His Kingship is revealed.

This means that all recognize that He is the King of the world – and this is a great pleasure to G-d. 

And the attribute of Malchus is within our hands. For we are the ones who recognize G-d’s Kingship.  

And then His Kingship is complete, for “There is no king without a nation,” and G-d has great pleasure in this.  

140 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Lishma – Altruistic
   
   

Once the Baal Shem Tov felt very low, to the extent that he was certain that he would not receive the World to Come. Having no ability to inspire Himself, he said, “I love G-d, even without the World to Come!”

***

A story is told that once a woman who was unable to have children came to the Baal Shem Tov, and it happened to be a very financially strapped time for him. She gave him a nice donation, which expanded His mind, and He promised her that she would have a son. 

Because He created this new obligation on G-d, He heard a Heavenly voice that said, “He has no portion of the world to come.” The Baal Shem Tov rejoiced greatly and said, “Now the time has come, that I can truly serve G-d with all my heart because I don’t have any world to come!”

And because He did this, He was able to rectify everything! 

His Master Achiyah Hashiloini said to Him that this was a test – and because He passed it, He rectified everything.  

17 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Lishmah – Altruistic
   
   

In everything you do, your intention should be for G-d – not even a minor amount of your intention should be for self.  

185 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Life-Guard Souls
   
   

Three types of (Jewish) souls enter this world.

The soul is crystal pure, but it goes into the tempest / raging sea of the body.

Nonetheless, this can happen in one of two ways:

Those who come into the ocean of madness in a protective boat. Thus, their upbringing has the protective element of Torah and Mitzvos.

But there are those who have been born without any lifejackets, and the waves of the world’s insanity constantly threaten to submerge their Divinity.

Finally, there are “Lifeguards” whose task it is to illuminate the souls floundering in darkness.
 
{Our job is to jump into the “ocean” to save drowning souls.}    

74 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  Spiritual Lulls
   
   

If G-d prevents one from serving G-d as their heart wishes…  they should understand that this is only to motivate them to get closer!  

96 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Lust
   
   

A person who misuses sexual desire is taking this holy emotion which is based on G-d’s love (as all love is sourced in this) and placing it in filth.

{This refers to when it is purely a means to a selfish, not a selfless end, and when it contravenes G-d’s instruction.}  

25 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Lust
   
   

When we think lustful or arrogant thoughts, we take our Divine soul and place it into a filthy cesspool.
One must have pity and release one’s soul (from such thoughts.)

99 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Lust

When a person G-d-forbid has a bad thought such as znus (immoral sexual thoughts – pornography etc.) or avodah zorah (idol-worship) this is an indication that he will be punished.

The rectification (or prevention) is to realize that everything (including these thoughts) comes from a spark of the Shechinah (the descent of G-dliness that creates matter in this world.)
Then one should include oneself in the Shechinah;  imagine the profound tragedy of descending into utter disgust and then all evil will dissipate, and you too shall be saved from punishment.

11 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Lust – Elevating
   
   

It is known that the source of the desire for sexuality is actually from the loftiest of loves;  realizing this, our job then is to elevate it, which we accomplish by understanding that G-d’s presence is everywhere throughout the entire world (and the fear of G-d this induces, elevates everything.)

27 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Meeting = Meaning
   
   

Whenever you meet someone, it is not random. Most often it’s either to teach you or the other something. You must see it as an opportunity to learn something positive from the other or to spread Torah and Mitzvos.
 
{This is very important, as the Rebbe Rashab says, when two Jews meet, the purpose is to bring a benefit for a third.}

187 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Meetings Matter
   
   

Every encounter with a fellow man, according to the Baal Shem Tov, is Divinely ordained in order to learn something – denying that this is the way G-d orchestrates reality, is to deny G-d!
 
{This was taught by the Previous Rebbe;  according to Chasidus G-d didn’t only make the world but is constantly making everything (for all matter continuously comes out of non-matter) and most importantly is guiding all interactions, so we can constantly “upgrade” / learn something new!}

185 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1.  Mikvah
   
   

The great levels of Holiness the Baal Shem Tov achieved was from constantly going to the Mikvah.

219 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Mikvah
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov says that if there is a reason we need to go dip in the Mikvah, if we go and dip in once, we will never become ill from it.

15 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Clear Mind
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov taught that a person must always operate with a clear (relaxed) head (not from a place of fear / tension.)

{Some practical suggestion to fulfill this is:
a. Daven slowly (ideally think about the meaning of the words.)
b. Drink a lot of water.
c. Exercise.
d. DO NOT LOOK AT THE MEDIA (which is proven to cause anxiety and depression – if anything is serious in the world you will hear about it…)
e. We must have our phone on silence, so we do not have constant distractions – we must limit our WhatsApp groups and certainly “entertainment.”  Technology is a service, not a taskmaster!
f. See # 584.}
 

62 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Clear Mind
   
   

By Meditating on this name (of G-d) כ”ף וא”ו זיי”ן וא”ו  – we clear our mind.

72 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Mind – Direction
   
   

Why was the death of the firstborn the final straw that allowed the Jews to leave Egypt?

The firstborn represents the mind. Our mind should be used to contemplate about doing what’s right / how to serve G-d, but the Kelipah obfuscates our mind (with emotions.) So when the Kelipah (“Egyptian firstborn”) was eliminated, this caused redemption.

{We must think and use our minds to figure out the correct path.}

154 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Mind over body

The whole goal of life is that the soul should dominate the body.
Exile is when it is the reverse (that the emotions dominate the mind) and redemption is when the mind gains control!

{When we are exercising self-discipline and living according to our values this is redemption (and conversely if our animal soul / body is dominating our mind and behaviors we are trapped in exile.)}

7 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Outreach
   
   

The Previous Rebbe said that the Baal Shem Tov innovated the idea of not waiting for people to come to Him, rather He and His disciples made the effort to reach out to them.

{Likewise, we must reach out to those who need help and inspiration.}

258 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Modeh Ani / Begin the Day Right
   
   

It is known that the world was created through G-d’s thought, speech, and action – first comes thought, and speech comes from it, and action comes from speech.

Similarly when a person wakes up, if one’s speech will be in worldly things (and / or G-d-forbid negative) then though they then may engage in Torah and prayer, it has been tainted by the first speech… for all the speech of the day follows the first speech (much like the spirit of the father comes through the firstborn  (which is why all the other children must honor him.))

As such we must be very careful that our morning’s first speech is very holy, and likewise our first thoughts (for the subsequent speech and thoughts are their offshoots.)

If we happily engage in prayer after this – then as we have sanctified our first speech and thought, our prayers certainly shall be answered.

212 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Money

“Jacob saw a ladder from the ground to the Heaven, and Angels of G-d were going up and down.”

The Gematriah of “Sulam” (ladder) is the same as “mamoin” (money).

Money begins in the ground; some people through it ascend to Heaven, while for others it is a source of suffering.

{Use money for G-d and goodness and kindness – as well as of-course to have peace of mind.}

3 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Spiritual Motivation
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov said in the name of the Ramban: We should deduce from how much physical pleasures attract us, to how much more so should the spiritual!

64 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Turn Evil To Good
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov teaches on the verse, “Turn from evil and do good;”  Our job is to turn evil into good!

{For example, if you have a negative thought you can transform it into positive.}

Note 157 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Nitzoitzois – Connect and Elevate
   
   

The main goal of our service in Torah, Prayer, the intention for Mitzvahs, and for eating, is to elevate the Holy Sparks from the depths of the Kelipah. 

This is similar to elevating a person from crass behavior to holy.

In order to elevate something from one level to a higher you must connect to the lower first.

3 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Nitzoitzois – Releasing
   
   

There are Divine G-dly sparks (the essence of physicality) trapped in the physical / mundane, divorced from goodness and holiness, and we must make an extreme effort to save them and connect them to their source which we accomplish by using the physical for spiritual.

4 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Elevating Nitzoitzois
   
   

In all things, there are Divine sparks whom desperately seek to return to their Source.
Everything a person sees and hears is Divinely ordained – one must elevate say a physical love to spiritual (for in essence the physical love is an offshoot of the original spiritual love for G-d, but in a crass form.)

For example, once a person saw a war (by Gentiles) and he told this to a Tzaddik who elevated it.

{In other words, the physical matter contains Divine essence (which is its life-force) and when we use the images we see and even emotions (that descend into the Kelipah, like lust) but transpose, transform, and transition them into holiness (such as love for G-d) this elevates these sparks, and the reward for the individual – for the sparks will be indebted to them – is great indeed.}

5 Megilas Esther– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Overcoming Addictions / Phobias
   
   

Fear and love permeate all the worlds, from top to bottom.  In the highest realm, it is love and fear of G-d, but as it goes lower it turns selfward (such as protection, lust, etc.) Whoever has a true love and fear of G-d will not have foolish addictions nor fears / phobias.

{This is very profound, for it is a mechanism to overcome all addictions and fears.}

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Pain
   
   

“And I will remove illness from your midst.” When a person has pain, he should attach himself to G-d. 

This means he should attach himself to the great qualities of G-d (see G-d’s qualities) and he will not feel the pain.

19 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Overcoming Pain
   
   

Pain is invariably bodily suffering.

The body is an offshoot of the spiritual force which is the essence and source of all existence, so if we can perceive even the pain as a blessing – connecting to G-d, then as we reconnect our body to its source, this gets rid of the Din (negative, coming as it is from the body level) and we heal.
 

412 Kesser Shem Tov

1.   Passion For G-d
   
   

A Jew’s heart must always be aflame / alight!

Note 4 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Passion – To G-d
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov says in the name of Reb Saddiah Geon, that we should be passionate about the physical pleasures of this world, for then we can use that passion for the spiritual.

3 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• P Passion – Transformation
  
  

Once there was a Prince who was a dullard, and the King hired the best wisemen to teach him, but he had no interest. The final wiseman came complaining to the King that the Prince had fallen in love with a peasant. Said the King, “To the contrary… this is the solution!”
He ordered the peasant girl to be brought into the courtyard, and the king told her if the prince desires her she should tell him he must first learn a wisdom. 
Because of his passion, he learned one lesson… and then she told him to learn another… until he reached the point that he realized that he was a Prince, and for him a Princess is appropriate.

{We need to transform our natural drives into lofty ones.}

4 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• P Peace
  
  

“G-d found no better vessel for blessings than peace.” 

The Baal Shem Tov gives an amazing parable: if a person is super wealthy, but leaves their doors and windows open, the wealth will be stolen…

{In other words, a person may have the greatest blessings, but only peace can keep them!} 

9 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Persevere in Serving G-d
  
  

To begin with, G-d inspires a person and they receive much pleasure in their service to G-d.

Then G-d withdraws this pleasure and they must Daven and learn with perseverance.

But then their mind and their mouth (the concepts they are reading) get connected, and they derive pleasure in their service of G-d.
 

10 Kesser Shem Tov

• Physicality to Spirituality
  
  

There is great reward when materiality transforms into spirituality.

3 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Physicality
  
  

There is a great reward when the physical causes spiritual.

1. Tzavaas Harivash
   
   

• You in your “Possessions”
  
  

Every Tzaddik has sparks of his soul in his possessions, his family etc. that he must elevate. (We elevate things when we use them for good and we elevate people through positive encouragement.)

Note 2 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Gratitude
  
  

Once the Baal Shem Tov (during his concealed days) was dressed as a simple Jewish peasant and came into a Synagogue where there was a great scholar.  He asked the scholar “How are you?” “How are things?” “How is your livelihood?”

But the arrogant scholar just ignored him, so the Baal Shem Tov said, “Why are you removing G-d’s sustenance?”  The scholar was surprised and puzzled. The Baal Shem Tov explained, “G-d gives man sustenance, and He receives His sustenance, so to speak, by our gratitude, thanks, and appreciation.”

{The Baal Shem Tov and Hidden-Tzaddikim would travel from city to city to simply ask Jews, “how are you?” as the typical response was “Boruch Hashem – thank G-d!” 

For when a Jew praises G-d, this rouses G-d’s greatest loving reciprocal joy.}

60 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Prayer / Torah With Reverence And Love (For G-d)
  
  

“These are the chronicles of Heaven and Earth when they were created – the day Havayeh Elokim (G-d the Lord) made Heaven and earth.” 

Just as the world was created with the Holy Names of Havayeh and Eloikim – similarly when a person mentions words of holiness, he must do so with love and awe of G-d which is Havayeh Eloikim.

90 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Benefit of Evil
  
  

As G-d is everything, how can evil exist? 

Firstly evil often becomes the motivator for good…

Additionally, a person who sees evil can take pleasure and pride in the fact that he or she behaves differently.

26 Kesser Shem Tov

• Pride
  
  

If one is looking to praise, praise G-d. If one is looking to denigrate, denigrate oneself.

54 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Pride
  
  

Good and evil are inverted mirrors, for good people take pride in G-d and spiritual things (and are content with little in the physical realm) whereas evil is content with the little they do spiritually, and when it comes to materialism, they are prideful. 

68 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Rabbi’s Speech
  
  

From The Toildois Yaakov Yosef: Though the whole year one should never admonish, but on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (the Rabbi) should.
“And so have I heard from my Master and Teacher (The Baal Shem Tov).  
There are three types of admonishers: those who are negative and cause Dinim (negative judgment upon the congregation) to descend.  
Those who are just compassionate (so they don’t effect change).
And those who use inspirational words to cause each person to come closer to G-d, and they cause blessings.”

6 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Inspiring
  
  

There is a level that after one spiritually climbs to high heights they come back into reality to help those who need them (however one must be careful to not lower their level.)

90 Kesser Shem Tov

• Ratzu Vshuv – Physical to Spirit

Everything seeks to go back to its Source – therefore the soul seeks to return to G-d.

Eating, drinking, sleeping, doing some business… this quiets the soul’s longing (as the person is involved elsewhere). However simultaneously the longing increases.

{This is part of the benefit of the physical needs.}

Note 10 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Think & Speak Nicely
  
  

All of man’s speech comes from the “realm of speech.”
 
And man’s thoughts come from the “realm of thought.”

When people speak positively and connect their intent to their words – then they connect the realm of speech with the realm of thought and cause goodness. 
 
Conversely, if they speak evil G-d-forbid, this causes evil.

This contains a great secret.

A person should accustom themselves to never say harsh words which come from the side of Din (anger) but rather accustom themselves to always speak kind words which come from the side of Chessed (love.) Similarly with our thoughts…

And so we accomplish!

96 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Be Close…
  
  

Just as with a fire, if one is too far from it they will be cold; but if one is too close, they will be burnt; Likewise with a Rebbe.

{Don’t be too far nor close.}

92 Kesser Shem Tov

• Rebbes
  
  

It is a great and holy level when the Shechinah / Divinity speaks through a person, and it appears as if they are not speaking.

The opposite of this is with crazy people that lose control of their speech.

217 Kesser Shem Tov

• Arrogance + Remembering
  
  

The Maharam of Kutzi said that the prohibition to not be arrogant is actually from the 613 Mitzvos.

He also said that He was informed by G-d one night in a dream, that the main purpose of the Torah is “remembering,” and G-d-forbid the source of all problems is when we forget.

The Baal Shem Tov said, just as this applies to the individual it also applies to the collective whole.  When we “forget” this causes the exile, but when we remember (G-d etc.) this causes redemption.

8 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Give G-d Pleasure

“Dovid” hints at pleasure.

“D-a-d” refers to the Mashpia / giver.

“D-a-d” in Hebrew is also a breast or nipple which acts to minimize the flow, so the mother can give and the child can receive. Thereby both the giver and receiver have pleasure.

The reason for this is that “more than the receiver wishes to receive, the giver enjoys giving.” As such they both receive pleasure.

King David’s sole pleasure was in causing pleasure to G-d!  So, his taking from G-d was similar to G-d’s pleasure. (For he took to give pleasure.)  

{Allow G-d the joy of giving to you!}

Shir Hashirim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Refinement
   

“I place G-d before me constantly – from my right side He will never depart.” 

G-d(‘s name) must be like a friend. 

Just as when you shake your friend’s hand, your right hand crosses over to his left side, similarly G-d must affect your left (selfish) side.

58 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Regrets
  
  

Our Sages teach, “The wicked are full of regrets.”  If they are full of regret, and we know that if a person has a regret this can transform them into a complete Tzaddik, so why are they called wicked?!
 
The Baal Shem Tov explains that these regrets refer to the financial or physical (in contrast to the spiritual) decisions we have made.

Every single decision a person makes ultimately is actually from Hashem – this is the basic idea of belief in G-d.

As such regretting your past is to deny Hashem (besides spiritual failings which G-d does give us control over.)
 
{In other words, your mistakes are also part of a Divine plan so don’t be filled with remorse.}

10 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Memory
  
  

What do you remember?!

{Do not forget what you know!}

190 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Assist!
  
  

Everything is by Divine providence. Certainly the fact the Jewish people are all over the world. We are always one nation and this allows those of us in better circumstances to assist those in more difficult circumstances – and we must!

186 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Reveal G-d’s Essence
  
  

The word Olam (world) in Hebrew also means Helem (concealment). This world conceals G-d; the goal is to reveal “Olam” which refers to the Helem Haatzmi / the Essential Divine (which is so high and lofty that it is currently hidden yet being that G-d is unlimited it likewise can become revealed.)

117 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Reveal G-d
  
  

“In the beginning G-d created Heaven and Earth.”

The Baal Shem Tov explains: The beginning of our service is to reveal G-d in the Heaven and on earth.

{When you make a Brocho (blessing) Daven, study Torah, follow G-d, you reveal G-d!}

4 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Reveal G-d
  
  

“In the beginning G-d (Elo-him) created Heaven and Earth.”

The Baal Shem Tov explains: The beginning of our service is to reveal G-d (Elo-him) in the Heaven and on earth.

We do this by contemplating the creations in Heaven and earth, and through this we understand the intention of the name Elo-him.

{As we contemplate the infinite amount of beautiful symmetrical interactive interdependent mutually beneficial functional living things, we understand a tad about the greatness of the Divine name Elo-him / nature’s source.}

Note 21 –  Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Revere G-d
  
  

Sometimes a soul from Atzilus (the highest of Heavens) comes to this world, and when he sees how deficient in respect people can be for The Great & Holy G-d, he reinforces his own respect, and thanks G-d that he is not like these people…
The wise shall take a lesson (to honor G-d more.)

When Jacob was traveling it says “He put the stones by His head” for He was saying that He is grateful not to be like a “rock-head” – one that doesn’t praise or acknowledge G-d.

2 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Food – Reward
  
  

There is reward for elevating the sparks of Divinity trapped within food.

4 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Chodesh Nissan – Prayer For “Presidents”
  
  

On Rosh Chodesh Nissan – the Baal Shem Tov told the Maggid, “Now is a time of prayer; for on Rosh Chodesh Nissan, all the people (kings, ministers etc.) are appointed.”

(So determine who will be good for the Jews…)

3 Boi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• See G-d
  
  

The world is filled with the greatest Divinity, with the secrets of the Torah, with spectacular wisdom!

And yet, like a person standing before the most beautiful sight that has ever been created, like glorious mountains… however if his little hand covers his eyes, he can’t see it.
 
{Reb Nachman of Breslov explains this: It’s like the fact that the sun is always shining, just depending if the earth is facing toward it, is whether you will see. Cover not your eyes!}

2 Devarim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Self-Awareness
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov often speaks about two states of mind: the expansive, open, contemplative, and the closed, anxious, narrow-minded.

When a person feels bitter that they are in the closed state, this itself opens their mind.

(But if a person doesn’t realize their own failings… they can’t be helped.)

25 Kesser Shem Tov

• Evaluate
   

We must do a deep self-evaluation to see if our emotions and opinions are correct. 

And when one is unsure, one must go to a Chassidic mentor to verify.

{This is very important for the vast majority of humanity have inculcated, lived, and even passed on, with false ideas!} 

22 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Self-Mastery
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that the secret of the three cities of refuge is, that they refer to Thought, Speech, and Action.

For the satan wishes for us to use them for bad things – and our mission is to use them for holiness.

{This is a critical teaching for thoughts, speech, and actions refer to everything we shall ever think, say, and do.}

5 Masei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Senses – Elevating
  
  

The Shechinah is called a consuming fire, which destroys all that is not attached with the white fire (G-dliness.)

The idea is that there are the five senses: sight, hearing, taste, touch, and smell. 

When we dedicate these senses to G-d, and we are aware that they are the senses of the Shechinah, then we elevate all of the five levels.

For example, you should contemplate that you are elevating all of your thoughts and speech of today through your Torah study and prayer.

Similarly with sight, movement, and hearing – you are elevating the physical to the spiritual. (Perhaps this means that the spiritual things you see and do, elevate the mundane.)

One who is not aware of this destroys all their seeing, hearing, actions etc.

5 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Serenity – Equanimity
   

Consider yourself like an Angel (lit. “A Heavenly Being”) and then the matters of man will not matter to you.

This entire world is like a tiny mustard seed relative to the universe above it.

May it make no difference to you if people love or hate you, as their love or hate is nothing.

Likewise, may the filthy desires of your serpent body be meaningless to you.

{See yourself as a Heavenly Being so you feel not embarrassed by foolish scoffers – and allow not the fact your serpent skin body has a lust or unhealthy desire to be considered by you that you have it.}

6 Tzavaas Harivash

• Serenity / Equanimity
  
  

A great principle of the Baal Shem Tov is Hishtavus – equanimity / serenity.

May it be equal (the same) to you whether people think you know all of the Torah or none of it!
 
The way to achieve this is to constantly be connected to G-d. 

When you are constantly preoccupied with whether you are currently connected to G-d or not, you have no time for petty concerns.

{By focusing if you are or are not currently staying connected to the Divine (through your thoughts, speech and actions) you will eliminate foolishness.}

10 Tzavaas Harivash

• Serenity / Equanimity – It’s All Good
  
  

There is a famous verse, “I place G-d before me constantly.”
 

The word “I place,” / “Shivisy” also is related to the word “hishtavus” which roughly translates as “equanimity / serenity.”

In other words, consider all things as being equal.

This is an awesome level, whereby “I serve G-d, but what occurs to me, whether it feels good or bad, I consider to be good for everything comes from G-d and is ultimately good.”

Similarly, we must dedicate our lives to G-d, but not necessarily in the way we think – a person may wish to attach their mind to G-d (“miyached-yechudim”) and G-d orchestrates that instead one must “meet and greet people…”

One should not feel saddened by this, rather understand that this is one of the ways G-d wishes to be served!

{In other words be open to the many ways G-d wishes for you to do good – don’t get stuck.}

220A Kesser Shem Tov

•  Oived – Serve G-d
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says that every single Jew, even the simplest, can and must become a servant of G-d (“Oived” meaning one who works on serving G-d.)

162 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Busy – Serving G-d / Preventing Sin
   

When one is busy serving G-d constantly, there is no time for boasting or other negative desires.

{By being busy serving G-d we automatically prevent negative behavior.}

201 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Confidence

Pretend you are not living on this planet, so why would it matter to you what people say!

{See #635}

201 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shameless
  
  

A person who repeatedly sins becomes so enamored by their sin that they first need to realize that they are sinning! (This is a perquisite to repenting.)

{There is an important lesson here for often we see a group or large group of people behaving in a manner that as they are accustomed to such behavior they consider it normal, while in actual fact it may very well be horrific.}

82 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shechinah
  
  

Always connect your thinking to the Shechinah.

Only desire Her love – that She attach Herself to you!

Always say to yourself, “When will I be so fortune that the light of the Shechinah in me shall dwell.”

8 Tzavaas Harivash

• Shechinah

The Shechinah is called Yaakov.

1 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Shechinah – Connecting
  
  

The two jesters who will inherit the world to come (mentioned in the Talmud) had a mission to connect everyone and their lives with the Shechinah. 

They did this by first connecting to the individuals, however if someone was morose hence difficult to connect to, they would first tell them jokes. 

Note 159 The two jesters would elevate everything from below to above.

184 + Note 159 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Shechinah – Speaking
  
  

Sometimes the spark of the Shechinah which is in man expands and speaks, and as such it appears as if the person isn’t speaking.

The opposite of this is occurs when someone has lost their mind. (Their emotions, not intelligence speak.)

Note 40 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Lust – Holiness
   

One should try to not look at physically beautiful things, and especially not gaze upon beautiful women.

When one looks for their selfish lust (pleasure,) then through this gaze a person is serving themselves (their animal soul) and this is like worshiping an idol.

G-d-forbid, this thought can lead to a seminal emission at night which adds power to the dark side and it becomes impregnated from him.

If one does so prior to conceiving a son, his son will have his source in their power.

This is similar to what the Arizal wrote: “Why it is necessary to honor the older brother? For he is like the branch from the father’s ‘trunk.’” This branch itself then has another branch protruding from it.

Similarly, the younger brother grows from his older brother’s energy.

As such, if one gives their energy first to the Kelipah, their son’s energy stems from that. The main power then is in the Kelipah, the child is merely an offshoot.

The proper approach to something beautiful that one sees, like a beautiful woman, is by thinking, “Where does this beauty stem from?” It comes from the G-dly force within her! So why should I follow after a part from the G-dly force when I can go to the Root Source, and the Source of all Universes where all beauty exists?!

Similarly, when one is looking at for example a beautiful bowl, one should say, “How did this bowl become so beautiful? The physical part of the bowl is not beautiful, rather its spirit is. That too is a part of G-d above.” (The life-force in all physical objects comes from G-d.)

Likewise, when a person eats, they should consider that the taste and the sweetness of the food come from its life-force above.

In physical matter, there is also a life-force as we see that it continuously exists which is impossible without the life-force continually sustaining it!

So in all things there is The Divine Force.

If you see the world like this then you are looking with your mind! Everything you look at is for the sake of G-d and you help eradicate the effect of physical attraction.

One’s thoughts during the day have a great effect on our dreams.

If this is how you think throughout the day, this will be reflected in the dreams you have, and in those dreams, you will see the spirit of all the physical things you encountered.

During the day, you see the physical and realize it has a spirit, but in your dream, you can see the spirit free of its physicality.

During the day, the spirit part of man is weak because it is connected to the physical body, and therefore doesn’t see the spirit in things. At night, when the spirit of man elevates beyond the body the physical connection is severed, therefore one can now see the actual spirit.

This is how a person can come to the level of true prophecy.

Regarding all prophets apart from Moses it is written, “In a dream to them I spoke.”

King David said, “I will see your face through righteousness – I will be satisfied in the day with your image.”

“I will see” refers to a vision that came to Him at night (which He achieved,  for during the day He saw how the image of everything really was from G-d.)

{It should be noted that as we approach the times of Moshiach when there is a prophecy “Your sons and daughters will prophesize” we are being granted a level of prophecy similar to Moses that the Jewish people will receive Prophecy while conscious.

Additionally the Baal Shem Tov is teaching us – which is particularly rife due to the media – to not fall into the trap of “how things look…”  I saw in a Kabbalah Sefer (Holy-Book) whenever we look, our eyes are lying to us, for we see physical matter… when in truth everything is Divine energy.}}

90 Tzavaas Harivash

• Sincerity
  
  

Be sincere (genuine.)

Introduction Kesser Shem Tov

• Sincerity 

Every Jew must believe and know that In This World There Is A G-d, Who Is Great, Mighty & Awesome, and He is One, United – A Complete Oneness.

He was before anything and is the prime cause of everything!
  

And He is within the Heavens above, and the Earth below – within the time of this world, from beginning to end.

And He will be forever and ever without end.

He created the world in the six days of creation, both generally and with all its minute details.

And He creates all of this for the Jewish people, His Holy Nation.

He created us in His world, for He envisioned us to begin with.

He took us out of Egypt, brought us before Mount Sinai, and gave us the Torah of Truth. This was all to teach us, so we may keep it and do it, and serve Him with love and fear!

However, a person must know that the main service of G-d is to serve Him in truth.

As it states in the Zohar, “There is fear…,” “And there is fear.”

“There is love…,” “…And there is love” (Meaning we can either do things for selfish or selfless motives.)

The principle is that every moment we must look at all of our actions, desires, deeds, and Torah and Mitzvos, to see if there is an admixture of motive for personal gain or for honor etc.

One should ensure that the only reason they serve G-d is to glorify His great and Holy name, and all one does should only be sincerely done for G-d Himself.

{The lesson from this beautiful teaching is that nothing is as important as being a straightforward, sincere, good person.}

17 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Sincere = G-d
  
  

The simple sincere service of G-d and the faith-based fulfillment of G-d’s Torah and Mitzvos that the pious unlearned Jews practice, is a container (vehicle) which draws within it the pure truthfulness of G-d.

 
{As we know, G-d is uncomplicated, straightforward truth.} 

156 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Sincere
  
  

The truth is, the greatest Jew must learn from the humblest – for that (namely humility) is the only real true quality.

160 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Speaking With Feeling
  
  

When you study or even speak regular (mundane) words, consider the emotion you are engaging with.
(There are seven possibilities) 
Chesed…Love
Fear
Compassion
Power (Winning)
Acknowledging (Gratitude) 
Connection
Dominion (Authority.)
Connect yourself to the emotion.

109 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Levels of speech
  
  

A person must ensure that their speech has action.

In other words, speech must go through seven levels – first Binah, that you must think of what to say.

Then it must go through Chessed / love, and Gevurah / fear, then though Tifferes. (When a person desires the words to be complete, then the letters combine / form.)

And then it appears good to say these words.

Then one must (Netzach) conquer the other words that wish to intrude, and instead speak the words one needs.

And then one needs Hod, and then Yesod.

When one’s thought is attached to his speech, it is called Yesod – which is the connection of thought to speech. 

And then it comes through the mouth, which is called Malchus.

This is the lowest level – a person must be on the level that his speech is called “action.”

3 Vayikra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Speech – Cosmic
  
  

The speech of a Jew is sort of the realm of speech that gives life to the world – and the thoughts of the Jewish people make up the realm of thought.

{This teaches us how careful we must be with our words and thoughts, as they filter down and cause cosmic effects.}

92 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Elevating Speech
  
  

Why is the Shechinah in Galus (exile)?
 

For “G-d’s words created Heaven.”

(Words are “source code” of creation / matter.) One must use all their words for the sake of G-d. 

It is necessary to rouse the speech through which G-d made the world, so that this (His) speech should spread to all the universes.

However, now through our many sins, all peoples’ speech are about physical pleasure, and even the words used in Torah and Prayer are filled with distracting thoughts and ulterior motives – and therefore the speech is in Exile.

98 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Elevating Speech
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said: Why is the Shechinah in Galus/Exile?

For all words come from her – as such words should be used for serving G-d and instead we use them for physicality, pleasure, and lies.

99 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Speech – Elevating The Shechina
  
  

One must feel sorry for the Shechinah, for instead of using words for G-d, we use them for physicality.

101 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Elevating Speech
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said, “At times when I attach my thoughts Heavenward, I allow my speech to say whatever it says and thereby connect everyone’s speech to Heaven, for everything has a source in Heaven. And at times when I am in the midst of people who are just schmoozing, I attach myself properly to G-d and then I elevate all their speaking.”

106 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Speech – Elevating
  
  

There are two types of speech:  the speech in Torah and Mitzvos, and the speech in making a living and drawing someone close to inspire them. 

This is in order to elevate the entire world.

Note 89 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Elevating Speech – Holy
  
  

Even when talking to a friend one can elevate all of the mundane speech through realizing that your soul is listening (for ultimately the ears transmit the information to the brain which transmits it to the soul / spirit) and the soul is literally G-d. Now have in mind to connect all these words to G-d.

373 Kesser Shem Tov

• Speech – Rejuvenating
  
  

It is known from the Baal Shem Tov that when we speak, our life-force exits.

But when we speak Holy things such as Torah and prayer, you get a new energy – similar to Ratzu Vshuv.

13 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Speech – Intelligent
  
  

Just as a parable is the container of a wisdom, similarly speech contains thought.

However when thought (thinking) is disconnected from speech (rambling…) this shatters the container, for the true life of it (namely intelligence) is missing.  The more spiritual a person is, the more they can see the light and life-force of the letters; and then one can place oneself within these letters that come from G-d.

279 Kesser Shem Tov

• Connected Speech – Shechinah
  
  

We must have mercy on the Shechinah – for when we are disconnected from G-d in our speech, we separate.

(For speech comes from the Shechinah – it is like separating a child from her parent.)

Normally when speaking one should have a fear of G-d, for the world of speech is the world of fear.

88 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Speech – Think First
  
  

Think before you speak!

3 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Speech – Cosmic Effect
  
  

When a person speaks (words of Torah or words of wisdom) with reverence for G-d – every word said causes a big impact in Heaven. 

There are Tzaddikim who sometimes say mundane words – as we are taught, “The mundane words of the Sages can be studied.”  These words make a big impact and contribute much benefit to G-d (for G-d wishes for the side of light to win.)

108 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Moshiach – Intentionality
  
  

We bring Moshiach by ensuring that all we do is first thought through.

158 Kesser Shem Tov

• Speak Intentionally
  
  

The verse states that “G-d fills the entire world,” this means everything we say, do, or move is from His ability (energy.)

It is impossible for us to do or say anything without Him.

When we say positive words and this is connected as well to our thoughts (beliefs) this connects the universe of (Divine speech) with the universe of Divine thought, and causes what we say.

(Unfortunately the same is true in the opposite… as such a person must be very careful to think and speak well, and so it will manifest.)

273 Kesser Shem Tov

• Spirituality – Honeymoon Phase

The Baal Shem Tov gives a beautiful example of a person who comes to a store and is given a taste of all the delicacies… he is then told “Purchase! For here we give nothing for free.”

Initially, G-d gives us a taste of spirituality…

INITIATION

First G-d gives one great delight in Divine service, for one needs to know what to seek.

But then this is taken away… for one can hardly be rewarded for being led by the bridle.

There is also the example of a father who continually draws his son close by holding out his hands, but then withdraws them, for the son to learn how to walk… And similarly eventually, we can achieve a delight in G-d, which is the purpose of service of G-d – and this delight is even greater than what was initially shown.

{We may initially be granted spiritual delight which is subsequently removed so we can learn how to independently grow and generate a deeper delight.}

14 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Start

The harder your beginning(s), the greater your end(s)!  

{Don’t be afraid of slow beginnings for they are a great sign!}

85 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

668. Courage

Sometimes one must show arrogance for the sake of G-d as our Sages teach, “A Talmid Chocham (Torah Sage) must have an 1/8^th of an 1/8^th of arrogance (1/64^th).” However one must be super-careful to simultaneously feel very humble. Tell yourself “In truth, I am actually very low – and the only reason I am acting arrogant is for G-d. But for myself I don’t need any arrogance, for I am but a worm and not a man – so why would I need honor?”

91 Tzavaas Harivash

• Teach
  
  

What is the meaning of what Hillel said to the convert, “That which you want don’t want another to do to you, don’t do to them.”  The Tzaddik often must descend (from their spiritual high) to help those in a spiritual low.

This convert said: “I wish to study the Torah while standing on one foot.” 

In other words that “I won’t need to descend (and help others”) hence the reply, “That which you wish another to not do to you, don’t do them;” for if you were on a low level you certainly would wish for someone to come elevate you.

Note 60 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Teshuvah – Gradually
  
  

When we do Teshuvah – turn our life around – we must do so step by step (gradually) otherwise it dies (fizzles.)

110 Kesser Shem Tov

• Teshuvah – No Guilt
  
  

When one begins serving G-d, don’t be too pedantic about all the details, for this is a trick of the Yetzer Hara to cause the person fear and sadness… to cause worry that you are not serving properly… Sadness is a tremendous block in serving G-d.

Even if you slip up and do a sin, do not be sad – just repent and trust that G-d has forgiven you.

And even if you know for certain you are failing in something, do not let this worry you.

Rather, know that G-d sees all hearts and intentions, and knows you wish to serve Him to the best of your ability.

Strengthen yourself to love G-d.

It states, “A time to do for G-d, violate the Torah,” for sometimes there is a Mitzvah that has a little Aviera (sin) in it – do not allow the Yetzer Hara to get you to not do the Mitzvah!

Tell the Yetzer Hara, “My intention in doing this Mitzvah is not to G-d-forbid anger G-d nor for my personal honor. (In fact if I thought that G-d doesn’t want me to do this I wouldn’t.) My intention is I desire to make G-d happy.” Through this declaration the Yetzer Hara will leave you.

At the same time discern if you should or shouldn’t be doing this Mitzvah.

Each one of these matters is a great and precious principle.  

46 Tzavaas Harivash

• Spiritual Pulse
  
  

(In continuation of the example of the circular stairwell…)  Just as a relationship necessitates constant connection and separation, for if someone is always close we lose the closeness, but when we separate, as in the line, “absence makes the heart grow fonder,” this leads later to greater closeness… 

Similarly in our connection to G-d. (This is similar to the concept of ratzu vshuv. And the Baal Shem Tov uses the example of a dance in which people pulsate in and out of the circle.

For in order to achieve the next level – one must go away from the current.)    

{Never feel bad over “losing spirituality,” for in fact you’re being led to a higher / deeper dimension / connection.}

54 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Think
  
  

Only when you think about what you are thinking, do you know what you are thinking!

1 Devarim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• First Think

One must connect (be Meyached) G-d / Hashem to the Shechinah, which occurs when you connect your thoughts to your deeds.

{In other words act with forethought.}
   

Note 3 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Think
  
  

Thinking protects speech, for when you think, you can ensure the words you say are the words you choose. 

3 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Lustful or Negative Thought
  
  

When a negative or lustful thought comes to you – be afraid (as this is from evil) and if you are afraid, you transform the negative to positive and eliminate the evil.
 

162 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Thoughts = Location
   
   

Whatever you are thinking about is where you actually are.

275 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Think Positive
   
   

If we think negatively we place our thoughts into negativity – as such we are distancing ourselves from the infinite sweet goodness of G-d.

Whatever or wherever or you think about, you place yourself there, as thought is a complete Being (reality. 

So we must engage in positive loving thoughts, as this is what we are manifesting.)

283 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Thoughts – Transforming
   
   

Every thought comes from one of seven categories – Love, Fear, Beauty, Victory, Sensitivity, Morality, and Humility. (As we know, there are seven emotions and emotions cause thoughts.) And in every emotion there is a positive and a negative (for example positive vs. negative loves, positive vs. negative fears, positive vs. negative victories).

If we think a thought of negative (emotion / desires) we add life force to the seven (evil) nations (the side of darkness.)

If you receive a thought – check what is the emotion behind it, and if it is negative (or selfish etc.) say to yourself “How low have I fallen! to take Divinity – the realm of thought – and sink it into the realm of excrement?!” (For the negative emotions are like the excrement of the positive.)

In this way you will separate the negative emotion and it will fall off, and return the thought to its pristine state.

Reflect, “If I can love this foolish pleasure, how much infinitely more so must I love my dear beloved G-d?!”

406 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Elevating Thoughts
   
   

Regarding bad thoughts and how to elevate and fix them, so that the bad will dissipate:

If one doesn’t know how to do this with each particular (as every thought has a specific emotion etc.) then one should know that within everything that exists, are the two Divine names of Yud-Hei-Vov-Hei and Adnay.

115 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Divine Connection
   
   

Always remain connected to G-d, even when you are in a constricted (not feeling it…) state;  for like a coal, as long as there is a single spark, it can fan into a flame.

217 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Clear Mind – Pleasure

One who truly wishes to become a servant of G-d must clear their mind from foolish nonsensical thoughts (certainly not to be exposed to media ED.)

Your pleasure must be in spiritual – not physical, matters.

If you do this, the spirituality within food will energize you.  

307 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Think when you speak
   
   

A person who speaks without thinking is as guilty as the sin of one who emits wasteful semen (as is known, the thought one has during intimacy affects the child, and if one thinks “foreign” thoughts, this created a “foreign” child.)

44 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Thoughtful

The goal is to connect your thoughts to your actions. When you do this you connect Hashem and His Shechinah (thoughts are the level of Haveyah, and action is the level of Adnai.)

179 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Guard Your Thoughts…
   
   

By guarding our thoughts from nonsensical distracting ones, we guard ourselves from the enemy within – making space for the Divine / Shechinah to be within us.  

{When you see a distracting thought – or even worse, a negative one then divert your mind to Torah or a positive thought!}

312 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Three Loves: G-d, Jews, Torah

The Baal Shem Tov was asked, “What is the main service of G-d? “Particularly as it used to be that people would fast weekly, but you have said that one who does this will need to give a soul–reckoning?”
 

He answered, “The purpose of serving G-d is to evoke within ourselves three things: The love of G-d; The love of our fellow Jew, and The love of Torah – that’s all!”

{These three loves must be our focus.}

17 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Tifferes / Mercy– Understanding G-d
   

Avrohom Avinu (Abraham) was a man of love, and as such He realized that this world was built through a Creator’s love. 

Yitzchok learned from His father, but wished to “dig deeper…” and He came to understand G-d Himself, hence had tremendous fear / awe / reverence. 

But Yaakov understood with His mind’s eye that there must be an intermediary force – for total love or total strictness would not allow the world to exist; as such He discovered the emotion (disposition) of “mercy” which combines both, and this is the way G-d continually runs the world.

(Total love would allow evil to exist as it would never judge, and total strictness would be evil as it would allow no room for error hence growth.)

This is why Yaakov is “The chosen of the forefathers.”

 7 Vayeitzi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Tikkun Chatzois – Torah

Be very careful to awaken at Chatzois (approximately midnight) and connect day to night in Torah study or prayer.

83 Tzavaas Harivash

•  Tikkun Chatzois
  
  

“When you go to sleep, and when you rise…” a person should accustom themselves to wake at Chatzois to study Torah (midnight… the exact time between nightfall and sunrise).  

77 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Tikkun Chatzois – Tora
  
  

When you wake up at midnight and you get tired…  you should walk back and forth and sing songs of praise and raise your voice (talk loudly) to remove the sleep.

78 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Tikkun Chatzois
  
  

Be most careful to get up in middle of the night and transform your nights to day, and sleep a few hours in the day in order that a few nightly hours will be sufficient.  

79 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Tikkun Chatzois
  
  

Be very scrupulous about getting up at midnight (Chatzois).

If you don’t, and have no excuse, you are shunned (from Heaven).

26 Tzavaas Harivash

• Torah at Night – Tikkun Chatzois
  
  

Study many different Torah subjects at night (not just one, lest it becomes burdensome).

28 Tzavaas Harivash

• Tikkunei Zohar

The Baal Shem Tov encouraged good people to study daily Tikkunei Zohar.

68 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Time-Management
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that one of the problems we have is not having an organized methodology (time-management) to our Divine service.

One must regret (do Teshuvah for) this, and make a positive resolution to improve.

178 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Torah – Soul / Body
  
  

Just as a person has a body and a soul, similarly do the Holy Letters of Prayer and Torah.

The physicality is its body, and the spirituality, the Divinity within it, is its soul. 

And one should meditate on uniting the Divinity to the body.  

38 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah in Business
  
  

Business is also Torah / Avodah, for in it there are many laws. 

The Baal Shem Tov said that if one learns Torah for the sake of G-d, for example, the law of “one who exchanges a cow and a donkey…” this to G-d is exceptionally precious. 

How much more so if one actually does it! 

For everything in this world was created to fulfill the vision of Torah. 

And in everything, one can envision G-d, see the miracles of G-d, and comprehend deep wisdom from it.

Furthermore by not cheating, lying, or stealing, we are also doing the will of G-d… And our Sages teach that by not sinning we are doing a Mitzvah! Hence in this way, even in business one is engaged in Torah.  

5 Behar – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Torah at Meal

The Mishna says, “Three who eat at a table and do not say  words of Torah, it is as if they have eaten from the sacrifice of the dead.”

The Baal Shem Tov explains that an incarnation of a soul may be in the food, and it can only escape and be elevated if the people say words of Torah.  (But if they don’t, G-d-forbid, it must descend into a rock.)

Note 6 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Transforming Physical
  
  

One can comprehend that within every physical thing and Being there is a spark of G-d (which is its life-force) and the purpose of life is to help it ascend.

Therefore, when we use the physical for good, and not for evil, the good ascends and the evil disappears.

13 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Transforming Desires
  
  

If a thought of boasting or love comes to a person, at that time one is in that realm, and one can transform it to its counterpart in spiritual desire (such as love of G-d – grandeur of G-d).

37 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Transforming Thoughts

One must remove the outer part (the Kelipah – selfish part) of a Machashavah Zarah (sinful thought).

Extract from it the spiritual light hidden within.

Then the sweetness of the pleasure (the higher G-dly emotion associated to this thought) becomes its energy.

43 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Growth through Transformation
  
  

The path of Chassidus that the Baal Shem Tov forged in refining one’s character and preparing one’s mind for the sacred Divine wisdom (is not by focusing on the negative within man) but rather by transforming negative traits (such as ego, lust, etc.) into positives!

(For ultimately everything G-d made was made for His glory – for positive! 
So as long as we use these characteristics positively, we are fulfilling the purpose of creation.)

236 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Transforming Emotions
  
  

Everything that exists comes from either the emotion of Divine love or fear.

It is just that the emotion, say of love, is exiled in a physical entity. Now if a person sees a woman or a food that he loves, they must realize that within this emotion of “love” is the Divine love, and therefore if they look at it in the physical sense… in contrast to the Divine love which is its essence, this “undresses the King” (takes the love away from G-d, leaving Him “naked…”) and as such one should have panic and shame that they have done so.

To rectify this say, “If I can love this love which descended into a putrid drop (of semen, which is the source of a person) how much more so can I love my Dear Beloved Creator?!

This also applies to fear – if somebody is afraid of another – one should think, “why should I be afraid of this individual who is a person like me?!”

Let me touch the source of my fear, which is the fear of G-d which is clothed in this person.

The same applies to the other emotions such as boasting (grandeur… and in this way we eliminate the negative love etc. and replace it with its positive source.)   

15 Lech Lecha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Discerning Truth –
  
  

A great principle – whenever you imagine or decide on a path to pursue, immediately think of the exact opposite way, and the truth in-between shall guide you.

151 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Discerning Truth
   

The Baal Shem Tov said in the name of the Ramban – whenever we are not sure of what to do whether it is in matters of the world or perhaps we are confused if something is or isn’t a Mitzvah (“the right thing to do…”) and seeing that any personal benefit (be it pleasure or honor) skews our logic (so the mind presents fallacious rationalizations to achieve what you desire) therefore you must imagine that this action or Mitzvah will bring you neither pleasure nor honor and then weigh both options (whether to do it or not…) and then G-d will guide you on the right choice.  

6 Kesser Shem Tov

• Seeking Truth – Finding

When something is not understood, but a person truly seeks to understand it, then they elevate it to the world of Machshavah (the realm of thought) and from there the Supernal wisdom reveals the truth.

{By thinking deeply into something G-d can reveal the truth to you.}

281 Kesser Shem Tov

• Navigating Life
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov gives an awesome parable: Two people traversed a dangerous forest and were accosted by vicious bandits. The difference between the two was that one was “drunk as a skunk,” and the other was lucid and aware.
 
The bandits beat them up and took all their possessions. When they left the forest, people asked the drunk (who was somewhat sober by now) “Is the forest dangerous?” 
He said, “It’s no problem.” 

When they asked him, “What is the reason for all your bruises?” he said he did not know. 

Conversely, the lucid person said, “The forest is a great danger!”

Similarly, the righteous are aware of the snares and danger of the Yetzer Hara and evil, and warn people of it, but those who are drunk, blind, and in the throes of their wants / passions encourage others.

{A wise person shall ignore the absolute inane media, TV, movies etc. and exclusively, judiciously, and dedicatedly follow the wisdom and guidance of G-d, Torah, Rebbe/s which leads them on the great path.}

9 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Tznius / Modest
    

When The Baal Shem Tov was in Istanbul (on his “ill-fated” trip to Israel – as He knew that if He met the Oir Hachayim who lived in Israel, Moshiach would come) He saw young married men that had souls of the Taanaim (great Tzaddikim of the past).

And He explained that this was because their mothers were so careful in Tznius / modesty.
 

5 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• “Understanding G-d”
    

The Baal Shem Tov comments on the saying, “The greatest knowledge is not knowing.” 

1. Some people knowing that it is impossible to know don’t try.
2. Others try their best to know and give up only where it is impossible.

He gives an example of two types of people who seek to understand an unknowable King: 

The first give up, as He is unknowable…

The second type research as much as possible but realizing that the King is infinite, understand their limitation. The difference is the first know nothing… while the latter know something.

This must be our quest.

Note 156 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
  

• Lying / Unity
    

In order to create unity and peace it is okay to lie.

{A White-lie for the sake of creating peace is good (“No, you don’t look fat…”)}
  

9 Kesser Shem Tov

• Be Joyous
    

There was a story with the Baal Shem Tov that something caused Him to feel very low, until one of His great students stood before Him and in their typical reverence said, “Our Master and Teacher!”

Another story of the Baal Shem Tov who was mercilessly persecuted by the Erev-Rav (fake scholars) until He once had such a dispirit that He was capable of losing His holy level… until from Heaven, He was miraculously inspired.  

{Feel up, not down!}

Note 10 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• G-d

A great level is to always see G-d in your mind’s eye – as if you are seeing someone standing in front of you!  
Likewise realize G-d is seeing you!

37 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Waking Thought

The first thought you have when you wake up should be your thought process throughout the day (and not another.)

81 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Elevating Physical / Water

“The lower waters cry, we wish to be before the king.”
  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that from when the waters were separated during creation, the lower waters weep with an incredible yearning that a Jew should come by and use them for something spiritual. Be it washing one’s hands for prayer, a Mikvah, making a blessing before and after drinking etc.  

This weeping may continuously go on for hundreds, if not thousands of years.     

They are placated and redeemed when a Jew – which occurs by Divine Providence – uses them for something holy.

{The spirit of all objects in this world are eternally grateful – as when you use them for something spiritual you permanently elevate them.}

123 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Blessing Water
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that when you encounter a body of water, you should say, “The Baal Shem Tov says that water is a blessing.”  

{And we know positive intentions imbue matter positively.}

250 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Wealth
      

The Baal Shem Tov explains: How does one escape poverty? Through creating a shift in thinking, in emotions, and even by simply dancing.  

{This is a great secret on how to cause prosperity – think that G-d will bless you,  dance  and feel happy.}

130 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Chassidic Style
  
  

The Alter Rebbe said in the name of the Baal Shem Tov:  
Being foolish, 
Sadness, 
And considering yourself significant (important… “VIP”) are considered by Chassidim to be cardinal sins!  

Conversely:
1. Cleverness!  
2. Being happy!  through finding in everything its positive benefit!
3. And acting quickly, yet peacefully
are cardinal principles!
   

205 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Work
  
  

Just as when we are praying, we can think of work – when we work, we can bear in mind G-d.
    

357 Kesser Shem Tov

•  World-Views – Philosophy
  
  

The “philosophies” (“humanities”) lead us to distorted and misaligned behavior.  (Not only do they cause a lack of pleasure, but also a deep existential angst.)

{As our Rabbis teach, “Torah Bagoyim Al Tamin – trust not Gentiles that they have the meaning of life” – as all history proves abundantly, for only in the Torah has this truth been given.}
  

319 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yechudim – Stick to your level
      

Just as if a person were hungry for a food which happened to be out of reach on a high-shelf and begins to imagine eating it,  far from satiating him causes an even greater hunger…! Similarly is the person who imagines lofty (Yechudim) meditations that he has no ability to grasp.
  

138 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Lesson from Evil
  
  

From the tremendous evil passion of Haman, we can tell how much positive passion we must have to do the will of Mordechai.
  

Note 1 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Redeem The Shechinah
  
  

“When you go to war against your enemy, and you see amongst the captives a beautiful woman…” this is an example of the Shechinah which may be captive – and when G-d gives you the Yetzer Hara in your hand, your desire should be to redeem her from her captivity and “take her as your wife.”

{In other words G-d / Shechinah is captive in (or because of) your foolish lust and desires – by giving up your foolish lusts and desires, you redeem the Shechinah and connect to her.}

4 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Win the Game of Life (Beat the Yetzer Hara)

The Baal Shem Tov quotes from the Arizal, that this world is about overcoming lusts and desires. 

Along this path, G-d gave us a Yetzer Hara that constantly implants such stupidities.     

When we can ignore him and the foolish desires and go on the straight, normal and decent road, this gives G-d incredible joy!
  

172 Kesser Shem Tov

• P Yiras Hashem – Fear of G-d –
  Waking Up

Rabbi Yochanan Ben Zakai in His living will said, “May the fear of G-d be as great to you as your fear of man.” 

The Baal Shem Tov explains, for example if you are sleeping and your Rabbi / Master woke you up you would immediately be alert and prepared to fulfill His will – so why not when G-d wakes you up?  

205 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yor Tzeit – Tzaddikim
  
  

Every year on the Yor Tzeit (anniversary of passing) a parent is judged.  For in Heaven the only way to ascend, which is the goal on a Yor-Tzeit, is through having a merit. 

They go into ever deeper scrutiny – perhaps a Mitzvah here or there can be found…

However for one who has been totally purified (used up all their merits for example) only by teaching about the person – learning from their ways on earth causes their elevation.

Now regarding the righteous Tzaddikim, whoever causes their elevation (through learning from them) gets elevated with them.

{On the passing of a Tzaddik – or for that matter anyone – speak about their righteous ways.}
 

9 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Genuine
  
  

Seek G-d, exclusively from where you are.

{In other words don’t imitate, just grow.}  

10 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Ability
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov revealed that every Jew has the ability to achieve great accomplishments in fulfilling G-d’s intent in creation.

{You are far more powerful as a force for cosmic change than you can ever imagine!}
  

382 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Zera Livatala
  
  

By strengthening one’s Divine service at night, one protects oneself from Keri / seminal emission during sleep.

{Be sure to concentrate on the nightly Shemah .}

Note 57 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Repenting from Zera Livatala
  
  

A way to rectify the sin of wasting seed, is through both giving charity and tears (remorse).  

23 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Zera Livatala – Spilling seed
  
  

When a person sins with wasting seed, the first time this causes his nefesh (lowest soul level) to depart, the second time his ruach, third time his neshamah.

The Kelipah surrounds him and he cannot accept any rebuke – which causes G-d-forbid spiritual death.

{We deduce from this, as the Alter Rebbe teaches that wasting seed is the greatest sin – in terms of causing Kelipah (negative entities that block spiritual growth.) We rectify it through saying Shemah at night see # 730}
  

11 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Zera Livatala – Spilling seed
  
  

When one says the Shemah at night this reveals Atik. (A very very high level of G-dliness – in fact the Alter Rebbe says, the days of our lives correspond to the twice daily Shemah we must say.) And this incredible light then kills the negative forces produced by a seminal emission.

For only when one is together with one’s wife is it Kosher.  

{Say Shemah at night and day.

To add, Chassidus teaches when we say the Shemah with concentration, we kill the “shin-daled kelipos” that emanate from zera livatalah / wasted seed.

Follow not current perverted practices of a denigrated debased culture.  Torah / G-d made male and female, and explains to us the holy, good, and noble interactions vs. the disgusting, evil and denigrating selfish lust.}

12 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah


730 Zera Livatala – accident

The Baal Shem Tov said a person should not worry from having a seminal discharge at night during sleep if it was not preceded by any lewd thoughts during the day. For this occurred, as the punishment of death was upon the person, and this took its place.  

13 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Zrizus – Alertness
  
  

Always be exceptionally quick (zrizus / alert to do what should be done)!

As soon as you wake up and get out of bed you have become renewed and made into a new person and now you can give birth / create – like G-d who births / creates universes.

And similarly in everything you do, you should do it with zrizus / alertness. For in everything you can serve G-d!

{Work alertly!}

20 Tzavaas Harivash

• Zrizus – Alertness

The Baal Shem Tov brought Angels down from Heaven to earth – He didn’t look at their face saying, “They obviously belong in Heaven – but I wish to ask them how they serve G-d for maybe I can learn from their ways.”
 

In Kesser Shem Tov it explains that the soul must learn from the Angels – for the Angels are very alert, energetic, and immediately fulfill Divine demands.

5 + Note 6 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Shlichus
  
  There is the clearly marked road, and then there are the byways. The former is straight and a person who travels it goes in the right direction – the byways are fraught with danger (particularly in the olden days when getting lost could mean falling into the hands of bandits etc.)
  
   There are two types of people, those who cloister themselves in the straight path of Torah and those (fulfilling G-d’s deepest desire) engage with people to help elevate them.
  
   As such there is the possibility of straying… and therefore we pray to G-d that even on mission, we should always be focused.
  
  

5 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Secret Light
  
  The Baal Shem Tov loved light – He taught that the Hebrew word for light / Or has the same numerical equivalent as Raz / secret, for whoever knows the secret of someone or something reveals their inherent light.
  
  (Once the Baal Shem Tov came into a room at night and it was dark. He said “Among Jews there must be light! My Divine service is to bring light to Jews!” When His disciples told Him that they did not have candles…. He told them to take the frozen icicles and light them!  One of them was even able to carry a lit icicle home, and all that remained at the end was a little water.

The Rebbe comments on this story that it encapsulates the Divine service of the Baal Shem Tov, to brighten, uplift, warm up the world!   Transforming darkness to light,  coldness to warmth,  desolate to joy.)

{Three lessons from this is:
#1 We must be joyous – bright!
#2 We must ensure our spaces are physically bright!
#3 By discerning the deeper reason behind G-d’s creation/s we brighten them and ourselves revealing Moshiach.}

Hayom Yom – 6 Elul

Prayer

• “Amen, Yihei Shemei Rabba!”
  
  

Alhough there may be different spiritual levels amongst the Jews when but when it comes to saying “Amen Yehei Shimei Rabbah,” we are all equal.
 
{This shows the greatness of saying “Amen Yehei Shimei Rabbah!”}
 

65 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• You Matter!
  
  

Due to a person’s humility, they don’t properly serve G-d.  They don’t understand that it is their very words of prayer and Torah that give energy to the entire cosmic sphere!

If we were aware, we would be judicious in our every thought, speech, and action.

A person should imagine that they are like a ladder whose feet is on the ground and head is in Heaven.

In every action there is a reaction – therefore with our compassionate actions, we cause G-d to bring compassion unto us!

{Realize, every Being Above and below, is relying on you and your heart.}

145 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Prayer for G-d’s Name
  
  

 Our prayers should be that G-d’s name “Havayeh” should be complete.

As it can be completed with the four names Ab, Sag, Mah, Ban – and when G-d’s name is completed, all the good flows.

22 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Blessings
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that we rise to G-d (namely from this world to Above) through the name Elokim and this causes the name of Havayeh (G-dliness that transcends this world) to permeate our world.

{The Previous Rebbe explains that on the highest level, this means that through understanding the greatness of G-d, then the greatness of G-d descends, and leads our lives in abundant blessing.}
 

62 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Chazzan – “Be On Guard” 

The Cohen Gadol would be sworn by the elders to not change an iota of the prescribed prayer service.

Now the Chazzan, though He cannot offer the physical Ketoires, it is as if He does so! 

As such, any slight divergence not only affects Him, but the entire congregation.    

Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Chazzanim For G-d
  
  

There are two types of Chazzanim (Sha”tz – leaders of the prayer service on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur).

There are those who seek to please man through beautiful singing, and those who seek to pray with good intentions, focusing on the meaning (not the sound) of the words.
  

Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Chitas (Chumash – Tehillim – Tanya)
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said, that whoever knows all the letters of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya (the acronym of “Chitas”) has nothing to fear.

{It is very powerful to say the daily Chita”s.}
    

16 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Chumash – Tehillim
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that if we knew the power in the combination of the letters of the Torah (for together they form Divine names which are positive energy systems) there would not be a single Jew who wouldn’t know all of Chumash and Tehillim by-heart!
    

3 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Joy
  
  

Crying is very bad; one must serve G-d from joy – unless the crying is from joy, then it is very good!  

7 Ki Tetzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Diveikus – Connecting to G-d
  
  

Connecting to G-d is done by connecting to G-d as He is within the Holy Letters of the Torah and Jewish prayers.

We do this by connecting our mind and soul to the G-dliness found within these letters.

44 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Diveikus in Prayer

Diveikus (Divine attachment) is when you say a word (of Davening / prayer) and you say it at great length.

For as you are so attached (to G-d – or the G-dliness in the word) you don’t want to let go of it. 

For this reason, you say it at length.

70 Tzavaas Harivash

• Divine Assistance – Mikvah (Men)
  
  
  

Action (for men.) 

Make sure to go to the Mikvah daily, especially when you are in need of Divine assistance.

Kesser Shem Tov (Beginning)

•  Connecting & Elevating
  
  

“The whole world is filled with His glory.” There is nothing, neither big nor small, that is separated from Him. 

For He is the existence of all and therefore a good person can connect G-d even in physical matter or space.

Be it eating, drinking, intimacy, business, mundane chats, interactions, exchanges…

This is the secret of the giver, namely bending down to uplift the receiver (like a father to his child.)

And this is the Kabbalistic meaning of “Know G-d in all your ways.” (Like “Adam knew Eve.”) 

In other words, unite everything with G-d.

If the above applies to physical matter, then how much more so regarding Prayer which stands at the pinnacle of reality!? 

Within prayer, there are many levels.  

And in each, one can unite with G-d. 

Unite yourself with all people who are at the level you are currently in (by seeing how you are one with them.) 

For they are all limbs of the Jewish soul (community) and from that “space,” pray / unite.  

And G-d will be with you, and you will elevate everyone.

189 Breishis Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Focus!
  
  

A person shouldn’t say, “When I can pray intensely I will, but when I can’t… I won’t.” This is like a king who goes to battle and gets dressed as a common soldier, so one must find where the flank is most protected, for that is where the king is. 

If the king (G-d) is being “protected” (meaning it is difficult to concentrate in prayer due to distracting thoughts from the Kelipah) this is a sign to truly attempt to seek Him (for there He is!)
  

86 Tzavaas Harivash

• G-d’s Oneness
  
  

“I, G-d, have not changed.” It is only that G-d conceals Himself in the miraculous repetitiveness of nature.  However, once man is aware that everything is G-d – one of the fundamental secrets that exists…! –  then no separation / concealment exists.  

When you pray and are beset by many distracting thoughts know that even in this is G-d (and thereby you remove the separation.)

85 Kesser Shem Tov

• Maariv Nusach…
    

The Baal Shem Tov was very adamant that we must say “Boruch Ado-Nay Le-oilam, Amen Ve-amen” in Maariv.
  

150 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Minyan

The Baal Shem Tov wrote: how come “One may not say their prayers before the community does?”

For it is important to pray together.

Once the Baal Shem Tov took a long time saying His prayers – more so than usual. 

All His Holy Disciples waited for a very long time but eventually each departed to do what they needed to do. 

When they came back, the Baal Shem Tov said, “The fact that you left caused a great separation.” 

He gave an example, “There was once a beautiful bird with feathers of extraordinary kaleidoscopic color and it perched itself high on a tree and no one could reach it. The king desperately desired it, so he told his people to climb on each other’s shoulders in order to reach it. 

But as some of the people on the bottom got restless they left, and the people on the top fell down and obviously couldn’t reach the bird and it flew away.

The truth behind this exercise was not really the bird – but the king’s desire for the unity of the people.”

The Baal Shem Tov explained, “When we pray together we can achieve high-levels, and the one highest can bring down blessings for everyone.
But this all depends on Ahavas Yisroel (love and unity) – and as you caused a separation, therefore I wasn’t able to draw down what I hoped, and the rectification is to place within your hearts a strong Ahavas Yisroel.”

Every Jew is a letter in the Torah, as the world was created for the Jewish people, and the Torah is its blueprint. And the Torah has four dimensions / levels (Pshat, Remez, Drush, Soid). When the souls from the lower levels have love for each other, and for the souls that are on higher levels than themselves, this causes oneness, and the drawing down of Divinity (and blessings.)

{The ultimate goal of all of Judaism is unity, brotherhood, fellowship and this brings upon us G-d’s blessings.}  

40 Noach + note 23 – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Pray!
  
  

People often try to escape, they are suffering… 
This is like a woman who gave birth, but to rid herself of her pain she travels to a different city! 

The Jewish people escaped Egypt… but then the Egyptians pursued them – then they realized they had no choice but to pray and that very day they were saved!  

{In other words when we truly realize OUR ONLY SALVATION will come from G-d!  and we pray!  this causes the miracle!}

109 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Pray – Your Way
  
  

Although the main service of G-d is to do so with joy and liveliness, and deep connection – there are actually Tzaddikim who are so refined that when they pray they feel an incredible sweet love of G-d, and their thoughts (and Yechudim) draw down a great Divine light and sustain the world;  But for the rest of us, the very fact that we attempt – by trying to pray and understand the words we say (if possible…) and study Torah and do Mitzvos to the best of our abilities… G-d considers it as if we have accomplished all the lofty inspiration (Yechudim of the great Tzaddikim)!

6 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Assistance
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says that when someone encounters something difficult, and then through prayer it goes away, then when / if this issue comes to them in the future, it will dissipate.
  

162 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Atah Horeisa (When The Ark Is Open)
  
  

When the Holy Ark is open and a sincere-hearted Jew makes a request, G-d will fulfill it – either all of it or some of it.  

{A great time to pray for what you need is when The Aron Kodesh / Holy Ark is open.}

161 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• G-D Loves Hearing
  
  

Just as a father doesn’t mind when their baby holds onto their beard and pulls (as babies love to…) and in fact enjoys it due to the father’s love for his son, similarly, G-d descends to our “petty” requests.

{G-d loves hearing from you!}
  

Note 13 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Clear
  
  

Know that every word of prayer and Torah is an entire structure (which we create through saying it) and you must place all of your effort / energy into it. 

If you don’t, the creation that emanates from your words will be crippled.
 

34 Tzavaas Harivash

• Main Parts
  
  

Do not say a lot of Tehillim before davening (praying in the morning) in order that you have enough energy to do the main obligation of prayer, “Pesukei Dezimrah / The Songs of Praise,” “Krias Shemah,” and “Shemoina Esrei,” with deep connection / Diveikus.

Do the most important thing first (prayer) and if G-d gives you more energy then say Tehillim and Shir Hashirim with great concentration.
  

38 Tzavaas Harivash

• Baal Shem Tov’s Prayer
  
  

The soul of the Baal Shem Tov told Him that the reason He merited many high revelations was not because He learned (or taught) much Gemarah and its commentaries, but rather due to  His prayers. 

He always prayed with great concentration – and this caused Him great revelations.
  

41 Tzavaas Harivash

• Keep At It
  
  

There is a “revolving blade blocking the entrance to the Garden of Eden.”
 
When one seeks to connect their thoughts to the higher worlds and G-d in prayer, the Kelipos try to block them. 

Nonetheless, do not give up. Attempt numerous times to enter the higher realms in a single prayer, and connect yourself to G-d and you will enter.

Strengthen your faith (while you are in the higher realm) that “G-d fills” (namely is the essence of) the entire universe.

If you fall from your level during that prayer, then say the prayer with a little bit of concentration (as much as you can) then work hard to attain your previous level in prayer.

Firstly, attach yourself to the body of the word, and then place a soul within the word.
 
To begin one rouse oneself in their body, so that the light of the soul can shine in it, as the Zohar says, “A log that doesn’t light, one chops it up and it will light.” (In other words, through humility your soul will shine through.) 

And then one can serve only in thought, without body movements.   

{It would seem that this teaching relates to Tzaddikim who are able in prayer to elevate into the higher spiritual realms.}

58 Tzavaas Harivash

• Prayer – Ahavas Yisroel First
  
  

The Holy Ari says, before praying one must resolve to do the Mitzvah of Ahavas Yisroel – to have selfless love for your fellow Jew.

There are many deep Kabbalistic Yichudim (intentions and “spiritual unions”) that can occur in Prayer and through feeling interconnected with all Jews (hence when you include your soul with those who know how to elevate…) your prayer also has this effect.

{As the Rebbe teaches “See every Jew as your other half, and only by achieving unity with each and every Jew, is your soul complete.”}

20 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Prayer – Altruism
   

 It says in the Mishna, “Do not serve G-d in order to receive a reward,” and there is another version, “Serve G-d in order to not receive a reward.”

The Holy Baal Shem Tov explains that both are true;  the former means “Serve G-d for the sake of G-d, not for your own sake.”   So your requests should be for G-d’s sake, hence if what you request is or isn’t fulfilled, it should be the same to you. 

Similarly, everything a person does should be done for G-d’s sake – not for one’s personal pleasure.

Then there is a higher level – this is like an example that one day the king says, “All who wish for anything should come and tell me their wish and it shall be granted,” so a person ran to the king but said not his wish. For his greatest wish was to always need the king!    

{G-d loves your desire to be connected to Him!}

125 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Prayer – Minefield

When a Jew prays and connects himself to G-d, a voice is announced (from G-d in Heaven) “Tzeineh Ureiena Bnois Tziyon…”

In other words, “Whoever is not worthy for this unity, nor desires it, should leave (Tzena from Yeitzei / go) and whoever desires it Urenea (from Reah / see) should realize, that when the kelipos hear this voice, they desire to distract the person in his prayers.

They do this by implanting a distracting thought from the pleasures of this world but the wise person connects the foreign love to its contrast – to the great love and reverence for G-d.

And one should say to themselves, “Why should I connect to this simplistic physical pleasure – it’s far better to attach myself to its life-force which stems from G-d!”      

102 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Best Request

We should ask G-d to give us what He knows is best for us, for often what we think we want, is actually to our own detriment.
  

220 Kesser Shem Tov

• Distractions are Challenges
  
  

When you are praying and someone is disturbing you by talking to you – especially if it is a Gentile or child – realize that this is the Shechinah which descended into their speech, to challenge you to strengthen your prayers!

122 – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah Breishis

1. FOCUS
   
   

The idea of Yichud (unity with the Divine) in prayer, is that one’s thoughts should not be distracted (thinking about something other than the prayer) in order to not mix bad with good.

{In other words, think about the meaning of the words (or at least that you are talking to G-d.)}  

100 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Stay Focused
   
   

If a person prays but they’re thinking different thoughts, other than than the words of the prayer, then the Kelipah controls / conceals the prayer (or speech).  It would in fact be better if he said nothing.

But words that come from the heart, enter the Heavenly Heart.
    

71 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer – Greatest Gift
   
   

Once there was a king who said, “All can come and make a request!”

One man came and asked for riches, another for a prominent position – but a wise person said he would like to come speak to the king three times a day. 

This pleased the king very much (seeing that to this man a relationship with the king was more important than anything else!) And hence when he came, all was given.  

{This teaches us to delight in our privilege to pray to G-d three times daily!}

97 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Prayer = Divine Intimacy
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov says, “Prayer is intimacy with the Shechinah.”

Note 65 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer = Duty / Good Fortune
   
   

There are Angels whom are only allowed to say a verse from Shira (“Song of Praise” from Hodu Lehashem, Psalm 136) once a week, while others once in fifty years!  While we Jewish people, the precious child of G-d, can continually praise and sing praises to Hashem.

This is like a king who had ministers and servants each of whom had an appointed time to come and praise him – each one had a designated line of praise. Furthermore, they were fearful, maybe the king would not be in a good mood (for one may praise the king only when he is happy) so they would come and say their praise quickly.

However the king’s son – due to his father’s great love, whenever he would arrive, the king’s anger would dissipate (as is known that anger dissipates when we are happy and in love) as such he could sing his father’s praise continually.

The son of the king has a double duty to constantly praise his father – firstly as He is His Father and King, and secondly for the graciousness that His Father bestows, allowing him constant access.
  
We are like the son who firstly has a duty to praise His father; but since we cannot, as we are limited, we ask, “The little we do sing, should be considered as if we have sung everything!”
    

14 Va-Yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Barriers
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov said the fact that when a person starts to pray many distracting thoughts begin to come into his mind is actually a good sign. 

For example, there are many guards guarding the doorway that have access to the king. Now it could be someone would like to go and make a request of the king.

If what he will relate to the king is bad for the guards, but chances are that the king will in any event ignore this simple individual, they will not block his path. 

However, if this person is an important minister whom they know the king will listen to, they do everything in their power to block him.  Similarly when we pray we free Nitzotzos (Divine sparks) trapped within matter. If the beseecher is a Tzaddik, as the kelipos are holding onto sparks of G-dliness, they attempt to disturb their prayers – especially the prayers of a righteous person. 

But the petitioner can scream, “Father save me!”

And because G-d desires the prayers of the Jewish people all the doors are open; He fixes what needs to be rectified, elevates the Holy Sparks, and creates salvation!  

105 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Prayer – Intimacy
   
   

“I heard from my Master (the Baal Shem Tov) regarding Prayer – one needs in every word to have, “submission,” “separation” and “sweetening.”
(See below for the explanation.)

***

In every letter, all the letters are included. 

The source of all letters is “Alef,” and it is close to the unity of the Oir-Ein-Sof / Infinite Ray of the Infinite G-d. 

And afterward, the letters spread and place themselves into the next letter – letter into letter.

Alef goes into the letter Beis, which is two Alefs, Gimmel which is three Alefs (Gimmel is the number 3 – Alef is 1) etc. until the letter Tof.

Each one is a cover and concealment of the Infinite Light. 

Now the letter Tof (numeric value of 400) is the final and most distant from the Creator, covering the light by many concealments.  To the extent that Eisav and the four hundred (bad) men with him can draw energy from there. (In other words, negative energy can be drawn from there.)

And the Tzaddik who knows that The Master of The World is in every movement and all places, and there is no place devoid of Him, uncovers the covering / concealment.

And He elevates all the souls to the highest heights, to G-d the Master of the World.

And in this way, He gathers all the stones (letters / stones) to one location… the unity of the Infinite Light.  

And they all become one in the Singular True Source that the Tzaddik elevated them to.

The Original Source of the Infinite Light.
 

***

In all the meditations that are there in Prayer, one must think during every word to sweeten the anger (Din).  

For the secret of the word, “Alef” is “Peleh” (Divine wonder / miracles). 

And this comes into the letter Beis which is two Alefs, until the letter Tof which is four hundred, and as the letter becomes distant, it becomes far from the Supreme Pleasure of the Light. 

And it comes into the concealment of the Kelipah until the letter Tof – which is a crooked foot / Malchus of Assiyah, where distracting thoughts, lusts, and loves are found. 

Here G-d conceals Himself – as there is a spark of Divinity within everything (so G-d is there but concealed). And when one considers that the exile of the Shechinah is a part of G-d “trapped” in this dirty container of Kelipah… then a person will have a deep fear (feel very perturbed). 

One must know that there is no movement without G-d, hence “G-d is with me constantly,” and then one can overcome the test.

This is especially so if one has disturbing thoughts in prayer – a great fear can come to him due to it (for this is the exile of the Shechinah). And one should humble oneself literally like dust – as nothingness…

Then one removes the spark from the Kelipah and it ascends Above into the Source of all life.

And through this submission; a great separation comes from Above, that one should not be too broken from their great humility.  

Then a division between good and evil is created, and the evil falls off. 

And then comes a sweetening (merging) within light and life of G-dliness.  

And one gets a taste of the World to Come.  

And the negative judgments get sweetened in their source.

This is the order of our Prayers.

First, there is submission in the songs of praise (Pesuikie Dezimra) namely to feel joyously connected to all creatures (all serving G-d) on this earth… (The joy is) that a “nothing” and “a breath, such as you” can merit to sing praise before the Great and Awesome Infinite Creator!  

And then in the blessings of Shemah, there is a separation – the “chosenness” of the Jewish people – for but you say “Shemah … Echad.”  

Then during Shemoina Esrei, there is a “sweetening” by greatly attaching oneself to G-d.

And this (submission, separation and sweetening) exists both generally and specifically in every single letter.

{So in simple words the structure of prayer is a relationship with G-d – as such first in Pisukei Dezimra we feel awe at G-d’s greatness (submission), we then feel joy for His having chosen us (separation), Birchois Shemah, and then the sublime bliss of intimacy (sweetness) in Shemoina Esrei.}

110 + Note 83 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – For Shechinah
   
   

“Only begin to pray only with humility.”

In other words, do not pray for what you are lacking, for your prayer will not be answered. 

Rather when you pray, pray for G-d. 

For whatever is lacking in you is lacking in G-d. 
For man is a part of G-d above – what is lacking in a part, is lacking in the head (in other words in G-d).

And the head feels what is lacking in the part, hence your prayer should be for the lack in the Head.  

{In other words, as the verse states “I am with you in your pain” hence your pain is G-d’s.}

73 Tzavaas Harivash

1.   Instant
   
   

Sometimes a person prays with minimal ability to concentrate, but then in one second, the light of G-d shines through his soul and he is elevated Heavenward.

51 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Prayer – Holy Letters
   
   

Just as horses take the king in his chariot, similarly the “horses” – letters of Prayer – draw to us the king.

Note 72 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – From The Heart
   
   

The words of prayer must come from the depths of the heart!
  

165 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – Step By Step
   
   

One must elevate level after level in prayer – do not lose all your energy at the beginning of prayer.
 
Begin calmly, and then in the middle of prayer, connect deeply. 

Then you will even be able to say the words quickly, as your connection is strong.

When you begin the prayers, you cannot have a very deep attachment… but nonetheless say the words with great concentration, and strengthen yourself bit by bit, until G-d assists you in connecting deeply.
  

32 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer – How To
   
   

One must accustom themselves to study and say prayers – even the songs in the prayers – in a low voice,  “Scream quietly.”

Say the prayers or the Torah study with all your energy, as it states, “All my bones will speak, etc.”

But the shouting-out that comes from one’s deep attachment to G-d should be done quietly.  

{The Rebbe was a good example of this, for He said every word of prayers intently but not loud.}

33 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer – Eye’s Open/Closed
   
   

When a person is in a state of small-mindedness (feeling low) it’s better to pray within the prayer book, for when one sees the letters, it assists them in concentration.

However, when one is attached to a higher world, then it is better to close one’s eyes, so that the physical sight does not distract them.
  

40 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer – Ask For Help
   
   

It is impossible to pray with great concentration unless one motivates oneself strongly.  Ask before praying, that G-d should assist and help with this.  

{Ask G-d to help you pray well!}

60 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Start Strong

Consider, that it would be great if G-d assists you in concentrating on say at least half of the prayers or most of it with complete focus. 

Towards the end of praying, when you get weak and cannot connect deeply, pray according to your capacity or with a little bit of concentration (until the end of Aleinu).
  

61 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer – Connecting

Sometimes a person can only pray from “Katnus” (constricted thinking…)

In other words, he doesn’t enter into the higher realms at all – rather one should just think that G-d’s glory fills all the worlds and is close to him.

And at that time he is like a child whose intellect is not very great. Although he serves in contracted thinking, he serves with great connection (Diveikus).  

67 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer – How To – Shukeling
   
   

Prayer is intimacy with the Shechinah; just as in the beginning of the union, there is movement. When one begins to pray, one should Shuckle (sway).

Then one can stand without Shuckeling, and be attached to the Shechinah with great connection.

And when one Shuckles, one can come to a great inspiration – for a person can contemplate, “Why am I shuckling?
It must be that the Shechinah is standing facing me.” 
And from this one can come to feel great inspiration.  

68 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Pray Joyously
   
   

Prayer from joy and happiness is much better than prayer from tears and sadness. 
 
The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of two people who need something from the king.

The poor person comes crying and begging to the king, and yet what he receives is but paltry.

The other, a minister, praises the king greatly and while praising him asks for his need.

The king bestows upon the minister as befitting for a minister.
  

229 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Pray With Heart
   
   

Even when we need to plead for G-d’s mercies as we find ourselves stuck – we should plead to G-d in a way that He desires.

{For example if a person needs to get help from someone, though they may be feeling crushed by the burden, it is far more polite and efficacious, to respectfully and even joyfully request assistance.}

276 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Heartfelt Prayer
   
   

“Make a Tzohar / light in the Teivah / Ark.”

The Baal Shem Tov taught that the “ark” is the words of prayer, and the “light” is saying the words with warmth and heartfulness.  

8 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Humble Prayer
   
   

“If I am not for me, who is?” 
In prayer, a person must be removed from the physical. This is the meaning of, “If I am not for myself, who is?”
“If I am removed from the physical – then – I fear no intruding and distracting thoughts.” 
However “If I am but for myself, what am I?” 
In other words, if I am self-aware (arrogant) then the distracting thoughts enter.
  

97 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Illuminated
   
   

“Make a light / Tzohar for the Teivah (ark) and complete it (on its roof) to the width of an Amah”.

Tzohar means light, and Teivah (also) means word.

The Holy Baal Shem Tov teaches “Make your words of Teffilah (prayer) bright.

For within every letter, there are “Worlds,” “Souls” and “Divine Energy.”

The ark had a “basement,” a middle, and an upper level.

The basement level refers to the world.

The middle level refers to souls.

The upper level refers to G-dliness.

So in every word you say, believe that these three levels emanate.

17 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer Creates Cosmic Change
   
   

Whenever we pray, we accomplish tremendous positive light in the Heavens, but as often we don’t see this on earth, we may not appreciate the greatness of our prayers!

{Your Prayers Matter!}

138 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Lisheim Yichud

The reason our Sages instituted to say “Lisheim Yichud” before a Mitzvah is because every Mitzvah elevates all parts of the soul…
 
Kelipah derives (or tries to derive) energy from speech, so by saying “Lisheim Yichud” we counteract the Kelipah.

2 Matois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Prayer – New Insights
   
   

Every single day in our prayers we should have new spiritual insights.

124 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Daily Prayer – Nitzoitzois – Kesser
   
   

During the daily prayers, new Nitzoisois (sparks of G-dliness trapped in the physical) elevate, but on Shabbos, during Kesser, they all ascend on high.
  

148 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – Of The Baal Shem Tov
   
   

“Dear Father in Heaven, we are not the soldiers of the evil satan, called NEG”A / evil, an acronym for “Fallen” “Strong” “Giants” “Amalekites.” 

No, we are soldiers of your glorious Shechinah!

And we pass before you like true Angels!

We are the soldiers of The House of David, the children of Yitzchok. Recall his binding on the altar.

Remember His children in mercy as it states, “Each man traveled according to his flag, each tribe to its father’s house.”
 
We are imprinted (“the Bris”) under the wings of your Mitzvah. 

Please see to whom we belong!”
    

416 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Prayer – Of The Baal Shem Tov
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov queries – we know that saying Lashoin-Hara (gossip) is a sin, so why do the Sages say that “most people sin in theft, and all in some sort of Lashoin Hara.”

The answer is that they are in fact saying a prayer, “Dear G-d, when will you have mercy and take us out of this bitter exile in which there is so much evil, which causes so much darkness, daily increasing!   Please take us out of exile NOW!”
 

8 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Prayer – Oir, Keli

The Baal Shem Tov said that the letters of speech are called limited and measured (boxed) containers… referred to as Yesh (existence).

How much more so the physical Mitzvos, like Teffilin and Tallis – the containers / objects, are called Yesh. 

And one must draw into it the spiritual light that gives it life which is called Ayin (“nothingness”).

For this is its soul that comes from “Nothing,” from the Infinite Source of Life. 

And corresponding to these two levels (namely the “light” inside the “containers” – the prayers, the Mitzvos etc.) one will receive “The World to Come,” as it states, “To give to those who love me / ‘Yesh,’ and their treasure houses I will fill.” 

Note 59 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Your Prayer Is Highest

The main reason why G-d sends a pristine soul into a lowly body is as this is what truly gives G-d joy.

Although the soul is in a “dirty” body, for what can be lower than the mud of earth from where the body derives, nonetheless it is this very lowly creature that constantly praises G-d!  As such this is a novelty!

The praise of a human on earth infinitely surpasses the praise of the Angels in Heaven, for that is their natural disposition (as they have not a lowly body which is attracted to physical pleasures).

This is the meaning of what the Talmud states, “A woman is for beauty;”  The concept is that the woman refers to the body, and G-d created her (the body) so He can have the pleasure derived from her songs of praise.

The Baal Shem Tov says, “G-d’s sole pleasure derives from the goodness and kindness, praise, Torah and Mitzvos of people.”

92 + Note 75 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – Be Prepared

Sometimes, prior to Davening (prayer) one must truly strengthen themselves so they can meditate / concentrate.

For some people this works by learning Torah, for others through saying Psalms / Tehillim, and for others through not studying etc.

The main thing is for a person to get themselves into the right expansive frame of mind.
  

35 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – Humbly Preparing

When you begin to pray you should feel fear of G-d – this is the gateway to enter before G-d. 

Say to yourself “Who am I connecting to?! 
To the Creator, who through His speech created all the universes and continues to sustain and create them!”

 
And you should contemplate the greatness and exaltedness of G-d – afterward, you can go into the higher worlds.

66 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Rush For Focus
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov taught that for average people who find it difficult to concentrate properly, it is good to rush through Davening to maintain focus.
 
He quoted a beautiful example he heard from his brother-in-law, Reb Gershon Kutavier: 
 
There was a forest road where ferocious bandits lurked, and so everyone would rush through the road to avoid getting hurt. Once two people went, but one was “drunk as a skunk…”
 
The sober one rushed through and was saved, but the meandering drunk was beaten black and blue. 
 
Said the sober to the drunk after he came out, “Amazing, how did you make it out?!” 
And the drunk replied, “But what was the issue?” (As he felt no pain, for he was drunk.)
 
Said the sober person, “But look at all the wounds!”
 
The drunk didn’t realize until it was pointed out.
 
{In other words, this is about rushing through the prayers to be able to maintain focused concentration, and not allow the kelipos to cause distracting thoughts.}
  

104 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Inspired vs Avoda (Self-Inspired)
   
   

If a person is suddenly roused by a Divine inspiration towards a great love for G-d – without any personal effort – this is not a good sign at all.
 
The Baal Shem Tov says we need to ask G-d that we should come to Him through our inspiration, not through a gift of inspiration from beyond. 

As in such a circumstance, there is the attribute of Din (negative judgment.)

The Baal Shem Tov said that He was told from Heaven that the reason why Moshiach is delayed is because we don’t properly rouse ourselves to love G-d during the Ahava Rabbah prayer.  In other words, revel not in an inspiration (spirituality…) which comes as a gift from Above, rather we need to work hard at it! 

For intentionality in G-dliness, namely, sensing the greatness of G-d and hence the desire to serve! creates the result of unlimited dedication (as it comes from within the person’s personal consciousness and choice).

{Work hard on concentrating and rousing a love for G-d in prayer, and especially during Ahava Rabba!}
 

Note 66 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – Shechinah
     

Prayer is called the Shechinah, and during prayer our intention should be that we are trying to unite the wife (the Shechinah) with her husband (G-d.)
  

126 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer – Shechinah – Altruism
    

The Baal Shem Tov says that the main prayer outside of Israel is the belief that within everything is G-d.  Through this, one uplifts the feet of the Shechinah. (Instead of perceiving a separate existence… it is all One.)

Furthermore, one should believe that as soon as one prays, the prayer is answered.

If it seems as though the prayer is not immediately answered, know that it may be fulfilled in a Heavenly realm, or it could be that the issue one is praying for is actually in the person’s benefit (but they don’t realize). 

If one’s purpose of prayer is just to be answered, then one mixes their issues into the Shechinah, which creates a barrier.
  

127 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Shemah Contemplation
   
   

“Shemah  Yisroel…”
 
The meditation in the oneness of G-d from Shemah is to meditate that there is only G-d in this world, who fills the entire universe with His essence.

And the main intent is for a person to realize that “I am absolutely nothing and the only real existence in me is my soul – which is part of G-d.”

This means that the whole world only contains G-d (as both the physical matter as well as the soul of life is all G-d.) 

When saying the word “Echad” / “One,” contemplate that He fills the whole world, and there is nothing but Him.
  

13 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Concentrate During Shemah
   
   

At the very least, ensure that when you say Shemah twice daily, you do so with complete concentration.

There are no words to describe how important this is, as our Sages say, “Whoever says Shemah  twice daily, their problems dissipate.” This refers to both physical and spiritual problems.

Although it is impossible to have one hundred percent concentration, but at least as you begin you should.
   

19 Tzavaas Harivash

1.  Shemoina Esrei – Attached
   
   

In Shemoina Esrei, when you attach yourself Above into Heaven, you merit that you are raised even higher in the prayer. 

As our Sages teach, “He who comes to purify himself is assisted.” 

And through such a prayer, one merits that one attaches their thoughts Above. 

From this one can come to an even higher level that even when they aren’t praying, they will be connected Above.
  

144 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Awe in Shemoina Esrei
    

 As soon as one starts praying Shemoina Esrei which begins by saying the verse, “Adn-ay Sifasay Tiftach…” (“G-d open my lips and may my mouth sing your praises”) immediately the Shechinah (Divine voice) is speaking through the person.

When one has the conviction that the Shechinah is speaking through them, certainly they will feel a great awe and reverence.

Furthermore, it is as if G-d has humbled Himself to come down to be within him, to speak these words.

{When praying Shemoina Esrei realize G-d is speaking through you!}

96 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Level after Level
   
   

I heard from my Master (the Baal Shem Tov) regarding morning prayers that it should be as is written, “I wake up the dawn and the dawn doesn’t rouse me.”

A person must try and exert great effort in his prayers until Boruch She-amer, which corresponds to the world of Asiyah which is below (this is where the Kelipos are located).

Then he should concentrate deeper from Boruch She-Amer until Yishtabach, which is the world of Yetzirah.
 

In Yetzirah, there are fewer kelipos.  

And from Yishtabach until Shemoinah Esrei you should concentrate further (deeper).

Then during Shemoinah Esrei, know that this is like hugging and intimacy with G-d.

And one should undress themself of physicality, as it states in Shulchan Aruch.

Then one rouses the Divine Spirit and in this order, namely manner, a male (permanent inspiration) is engendered.

However when a person randomly receives a Divine inspiration, this is not good – if this occurs one should have an intense fear of G-d and pray from the depths of the heart.
      

95 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Study Torah After
   
   

After prayer, we should immediately go study Torah, for whatever emotion we are feeling such as great love or fear of G-d then that emotion (if it is not grounded in Torah study) could transpose and become a negative love (lust, etc.) or fear can become anger.

167 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer’s Goal
   
   

The point of prayer is to connect the Din (and sweeten the judgmentalism) of Malchus, by connecting it to Binah. (This occurs when we think about the words we say.)
  

77 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Weekday Focus
   
   

Say not, “On Shabbos, I will pray intensely, but not during the weekdays.”

Be not like a servant who only serves properly while seeing the king, but when he doesn’t see the king slacks. (In other words, when it’s Shabbos, namely you’re feeling spiritual, you serve G-d, but during the weekday, namely when not feeling any inspiration you slack.)

A true servant feels bad when he is not with the king, and therefore does all in his power to come closer to G-d all the time.

Although the true servant may not be able or worthy of coming close to the king (but as his heart desires this so much) the king who is filled with compassion allows him to.

{In other words, pray intensely during the weekdays too.}

85 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Try!
   
   

If a person cannot (motivate themselves to intensely) pray, they should not think that “today is a washout” (impossible). Rather strengthen your focus, which will cause an ever greater reverence (fear) of G-d.

An example of this is a king who goes to war and gets dressed in the clothing of a regular soldier – the wise people can discern based on his mannerisms who the king is.

Those who are not so wise can realize that he is where the greatest protection lies…
 
Similarly, when one cannot pray with concentration, he should know that the kelipos are blocking the path to the King. Therefore one must increase their fear / reverence and deep yearning to get closer and pray to G-d. And then he can pray with great concentration.    

72 Tzavaas Harivash

1.  Yechudim – Unifying  

From a letter written to His Brother-In-Law, Rabbi Gershon Kutavier:

Whenever you pray and learn Torah and every time you say a holy word, concentrate on unifying a Divine Shem. (Yichud is the connecting of Divine “entities.”) For in every letter, there are “Spiritual worlds,” “Souls” and “Divinity.”
 
They elevate, connect, and unify with each other.

Then the letters connect and become a word and truly unify in G-d.

Now include your own soul in each level mentioned, and then all the universes join as one – unify – and elevate to G-d.
 
This causes a great joy. 

To give you an idea of how great the joy is, imagine the joy of a marriage, which is nothing compared to it.

If you do this, certainly G-d will come to your assistance and in everything you request of G-d (or try) you will succeed.
    

1 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Neitz
   
   

One should accustom themselves to midnight. (Presumably to say Tikkun Chatzois and study Torah.)

At the very least, ensure that your prayer – be it summer or winter – is before sunrise (Neitz).

In other words, most of your prayer until Shemah should be said before sunrise – for the difference in praying before or after sunrise is like the distance of east to west.

Before sunrise one can easily rid the negative decrees.

May this not be a small thing to you – for indeed it is very great! (The Baal Shem Tov was very careful to do this – sometimes when he didn’t have a Minyan at that hour, he still davened before Neitz.)     

16 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Prayer / Torah Lishma

If one says Torah or prayer with a self-bias intent – as in every word a complete “entity” is born, therefore this causes someone (see below for more…) who will cause you pain.

The Degel Machenah Efraim (in the name of the Baal Shem Tov) teaches on the verse, “If G-d loves someone, even their enemies make peace with them.”

Why “their” enemies?  

For some people are simply malicious…

But sometimes the hate that comes to someone (even from within their own family) is nitzotzois (sparks) of sins they did (that are causing this person to behave in such a way.)

However, when you do Teshuvah, those sparks die (so the hate dissolves.)

{Instead of getting angry – especially G-d-forbid at family members, repent.}
 

62 + Note 38 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. “Small” Prayer = Close
   
   

Sometimes a person prays in a “small” capacity and doesn’t elevate Heavenward. 
However, he is aware that G-d’s glory fills this earth, and like a child feels close – this too is a great connection.
  

52 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Prayer Advocates
    

Our prayer (or the intention in our prayer) should be to unite the world of Malchus (G-d’s speech – the Shechinah) with the world of thought (the inner essence of the Divine) which results that these prayers then speak up for us.
 

130 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Answered
   
   

If you wish to know if your prayer has been answered, ask yourself if you feel joy after your prayer.

168 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Preparation (Chassidus)
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov told his disciples that before prayers, one should learn a teaching of the Zohar.

{According to Chabad, one should study Chabad Chassidus (which is similar.)}
 

38 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Flow
   
   

If a person finds he can concentrate during prayer or can pray with great love and awe of G-d, it is a sign that his prayers have been accepted.
  

136 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Simple Praying
   
   

My Master explained that though Rabbi Nechunya Ben Hakanah learned all the secrets of the Divine names (Yechudim etc.) He prayed as a child (with simple faith in the one G-d.)
 

134 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Praying With Concentration
   
   

If a person learns Torah or prays without love / fear of G-d, the words ascend not to G-d.

Certainly, if one has distracting thoughts, the words will not ascend. These thoughtless words (like invalid sacrifices) are sent to the dark force.

Now when a person repents, these words (the sparks of holiness within…) get elevated and return to G-d.

Hence when a person starts to pray and study Torah, the thoughtless words in the dark side try to prevent the person from praying (as they are dark.)

These thoughts are the result of one’s sins – and therefore are going to war against that person.

Their true intention is that you should save them and take them out of their exile (in the dark force).

The mechanism to do so is by realizing that they are your sins, and you should feel distressed by them.

109 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Cosmic Effect
   
   

Just as a mother wishes for her son to say something clever so the father will fall in love with him (be proud etc.) similarly the Shechinah (Divine “motherhood”) wishes for you to pray with great love and awe of G-d.

As the words of Torah and prayer said with love and awe ascend Above, a great honor for G-d ensues and the Angels praise “Who is like your nation Israel! O’ One (unique) nation on earth.”

As such it’s best to say at least one word in your prayer with love and awe for this causes all the Angels to praise G-d.

Additionally, all the Beings in Heaven serve G-d Above, when we serve G-d below.

93 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Deep

Sometimes we must pray to G-d only with our soul – this means mainly through thought (thinking the meaning of the words…) and the body is pretty stationary. 

This is so that one does not wear one’s body out. 

Sometimes, a person can say the entire prayer with great fear and love without actual movement. 

It will appear to another like he is saying these words without any passion… 

A person can do this when he is deeply attached to G-d.

Then he can serve G-d with his soul alone, with great love. 

Such a prayer is better and has even deeper passion and is said quicker than a prayer that appears outwardly very passionate. 

The Kelipah has no hold over such a prayer, for it is all internal.

{This perhaps explains why the Rebbe said his prayers pretty stationary with deep albeit quiet concentration.}
 

70 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Refocus
   
   

When a person is studying Torah and praying and they get a distracting thought they should think about G-d. This rectifies / redeems the spark of G-d (nitzoitz in that thought).

This is like a person who was counting money, and his imprisoned son came to him saying, “I see you have money, please use it to redeem me.”
  

108 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Praying For G-d
   
   

Our intention in prayer should be that we are returning the Holy words (said in Prayer, which contain Divine energy) to G-d. 

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example – a simple person who effectively had no business in the palace was given the task of bringing the King’s signet ring to him. As the ring is so precious to the King, all the guards open the gates so he can get to the King quicker.

Similarly, as G-d loves these holy words, all the Heavenly Gateways are open.
  

94 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. For The Shechinah
     

There are two levels in prayer. The lowest is where one is asking for oneself – this is the level of this world.
 
The higher is where one is asking for the sake of the rectification of the Shechinah. Through rectifying the Above this also rectifies us below, as is known, Above and below are one.

128 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Pray For The Wicked
     

The Baal Shem Tov says that we must pray for our enemies as they are the spirit of a Tzaddik in reincarnation. Through praying for them, the harshness is sweetened at its source, and one extracts the spirit of the Tzaddik;  what is left disintegrates automatically.
  

156 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Praying for The Holy Letters
   
   

“Ask of your G-d, a sign / ois.”
 

(Ois in Hebrew also means letter.) Says the Baal Shem Tov, “Ask of G-d that you should be able to return the letters you say in prayer to their source (in G-d.)”

83 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Humility – Altruism
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov teaches: How do we know if we are serving G-d altruistically, not due to personal motivation (such as honor or reward)?

We know this if after we do the service, we remain just as humble.

Sometimes the Yetzer Hara allows one to pray with great concentration, just so later he can make him fall into the sin of arrogance.

Note 101. Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Holy Letters
   
   

When we pray, one should connect oneself within the holiness of these letters (and Yechudim) and realize the human is a micro of the macro, so by connecting to the Holiness of the words below, one causes this unity Above – which then draws down the infinite Divine light into oneself, and one receives its blessing.

82 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Comprehending

“I heard from my Master, that when it comes to learning and prayer, if one understands the words they are saying, and the actual law during learning, then one attaches Malchus which is speech, to Binah which is thought.”  

76 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Pain
    

A wise person realizes that the pain they have is the pain of the Shechinah – and as they pray for the Shechinah, their pain also is healed.
  

153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Preparation
   
   

When a person begins to pray, he should do so in fear – considering to whom He will be praying!

The Master of all the Universes, who creates and keeps them all going! 

Think about how great and lofty G-d is, and then one can be in the higher universes.

58 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Preparation

Before one speaks, one obviously must think – before one prays, one should likewise.

We should contemplate that our speaking will be the Shechinah speaking through us, and in the Shechinah are all the positive qualities, hence how humbled should we be before this speech / prayer!

313 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Preparation
   
   

Realize that when you pray, “the realm of speech Above” is speaking in you – this is such an incredible realm through which the entire universe was created!
 
As it is said, “G-d made the universe through Divine speech.”  Think about the greatness of G-d – that the life force of all the universes comes through His speech.
 
This is the realm of transcendence (Yirah), and the Shechinah contracts itself and rests in your speech, as it states in Sefer Yetzira, “He placed them in the mouth.”

And if this is the case with the Divine speech, how much more so the Divine thought! It contains many awesome pure lights which no man can fathom… So, when you think of the words of prayer, realize that this is the contraction of “the realm of thought” in your mind, into the potential of Chochmah and Bina in your brain.

From such an infinite realm, one should feel small (a healthy sense of reverence…)    

90 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Shechinah
   
   

A person should pray for the Shechinah, for everything we lack below is a lack above.

 
And all the great miracles the Baal Shem Tov caused, from blind people being healed, from childless people getting pregnant, from people on death’s door recovering… it was all because he would pray for the Shechinah Above, which rectified everything below.

152 + Note 149 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Shechinah – For The King
   
   

The Tzaddik perceives that any pain or lack that he or the Jewish people have, is a lack in the Shechinah – and therefore He prays for the Shechinah. 

When it’s rectified Above, it’s rectified below.

When the prayer is for the Shechinah, G-d is there.

A righteous man prays that His prayers should be for the sake of the Shechinah.

From such a prayer, G-d gives the person (as in the example above) everything.

***

King David said, “A prayer of a poor person; To G-d, he requests to pour forth his supplication.” In other words, a person’s sole prayer is for G-d.

The Baal Shem Tov gave an example of three types of people approaching the king. The first one sees the guards outside and runs from fright.

The second bribes the guards, but becomes so caught up in the treasures within the palace that they forget the king.

But the third realizes that compared to the source of all pleasures –The King Himself – every other pleasure is worthless (so they ignore everything and go straight to the King.)  

Note 125 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
  

1. Transforming Emotions
   
   Consider that when you are praying, you are going from Heavenly chamber to chamber (a chamber is a magnificent room). When you have a distracting thought, this is the Kelipos trying to expel you from the chamber, for in each chamber they judge if you are worthy to be there.
   If you are not praying passionately, then you should place energy in your prayers – and if you pray with energy (and are still receiving distracting thoughts) then you should check the type of thoughts that have come to you (perhaps this is mainly for Tzaddikim…). If it is a bad love, such as Niuf (immoral intimacy) elevate it to its source, which is love for G-d.
   
   There are seven types of thoughts. These are the seven days of creation, and in every day there is evening and morning.
   Evening (“Erev”) also has the terminology (in Hebrew) of mixing – which is like one thinking foreign (distracting) thoughts during prayers; and morning has the terminology of visiting (Livaker) that one is visiting G-d.
   
   1. There is love for G-d, and love for sins.
   
   2. There is fear of G-d, and bad fears, such as hate.
   
   3. There is glorifying G-d, and there is a glorifying self.
   
   4. There is winning (for G-d, or self.)
   
   5. There is acknowledging (G-d, or self.)
   
   6. Yesoid comes from connection (connecting to G-d, or self.)
   
   Each of these seven are comprised of ten, and in every bad thought, one gives life to the seven nations.
   
   And this is the explanation of the “Hidden Medrash,”  “The world was falling apart so G-d said to Abraham ‘It’s time to build (establish) the world’.”
   
   In other words, the emotion of kindness was needed.
   
   Whatever one is thinking about – whether a bad lust or anger – they give power to these energies.
   
   Now if someone is G-d-forbid thinking about lust – then say to yourself, “What have I done… to take part of the universe of thought, and drag it into excrement?!”
   
   In this way, one humbles and diminishes this thought.
   
   Afterward, elevate this thought to the world of love, by thinking “If I can love this desire, say a woman, which is a putrid drop (which people come from) how much infinitely more so should I love G-d!”
   Similarly if one hears a joke which causes joy, consider that this is from the world of love, and be very careful to not denigrate this pleasure, for this pleasure belongs to taking pleasure in G-d.  Actually elevate the pleasure of this joke by saying, “It is from the universe of pleasure.” (In other words, all things begin in a holy space, and hence can be elevated back.)
   
   Similarly when one is eating (consider the pleasure as emanating from G-d.)
   
   Now when a person must have a pleasure (say from food) this brings G-d’s pleasure into all the universes (if a person connects it to G-d – “the world of pleasure.”)
   Similarly, if you see something you fear, say, “Why should I be afraid of this thing? This person is just like me!” How much more so if you are dealing with an animal – it is only that G-d’s fear is hidden within this thing! As such I should have infinitely more fear from G-d.” 
   
   Similarly when it comes to honor – if you or a person is being honored for praying nicely or studying Torah, then be humble before G-d.
   
   And if we are dealing with “victory,” then beat this very trait to need to be victorious, or use it for being victorious for G-d.
    
   Similarly, with acknowledging and connecting (Yesoid)… – Be connected but to G-d.

87 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Uniting

When you pray, realize G-d is in the letters. We only know what someone is thinking if they speak, as such we see that speech contains thought. 

These Holy Letters contain G-d! Consider that “I am creating a home for such a Great Noble Holy King!” as such this must be done with joy!

Say the words of prayer with all your might. In this way you unite with G-d, for your energy is in the letter and within the letter is G-d.

84 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Praying For The Shechinah
   
   

Before prayer, one should think about the tremendous suffering of the Shechinah as Jews are in exile. 

During the time of the Beis Hamikdash, sacrifices were a method of atonement – now prayer takes the place of the sacrifices.  

If a person sins, this hurts the Shechinah – and through atonement, the Shechinah comes out of her pain. 

In other words, through considering the pain of the Shechinah in exile – then through prayer, sins are forgiven and the Shechinah is redeemed.

***
 
A person should always pray that the Shechinah should come out of exile.

In one place, the Zohar says that whoever requests for themselves is like a (obnoxious) dog. Yet elsewhere it says that one who prays not for his livelihood daily is of little faith?!
 
The Baal Shem Tov explains:
Who feels pleasure and pain in a person? 
The life-force within the person (the proof of this is, if G-d-forbid the same person passed, the same bodily pain would not be felt.) Now the life-force comes from G-d, hence in actual fact when you are praying for yourself, you are praying for G-d.

Note 121 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Shechinah – Pray For
   
   

We must not pray for our needs, but for the redemption of the Shechinah / Divine. 

In other words, we pray that we can rectify the defect we caused in the Shechinah through our sins.

{The Alter Rebbe describes that sinning is like taking a king and placing his head in a toilet bowl filled with excrement. For all must contain the Divine in order to exist, therefore bad or lewd thoughts contain the Divine – which is like taking G-d and placing Him in filth. So pray to rectify the defect your sin caused.}

290 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Tallis
   
   

“When you put on the Tallis you should see the Ticheiles.” 

In other words, you should sense the fear of G-d.  

21 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Teffilin – How To

Whenever the Holy Maagid of Trisk would teach a Bar Mitzvah boy to put on Teffilin, he would teach him to tie the Teffilin straps outward, as well as how there should be three circles on the top part of the arm, and then on the middle (elbow to the hand) there should be eight (for the top and bottom twirl count but as two halves…) And he would say, “In this manner I put on Teffilin, as did my father, and as did my grandfather, and likewise the Baal Shem Tov and the Holy Ari, as they received from Eliyahu Hanavie.”  

84 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Tehillim
   
   

When we say the beautiful songs of praise to G-d, composed by King David (Tehillim) we shatter any negative decrees.
    

72 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Tehillim
   
   

Whoever says the whole book of Psalms eliminates any negative (Divine) decrees.  

73 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Tehillim
   
   

One should say the portion of Tehillim corresponding to their age (+ 1 so if you are sixty you say Psalm 61) every morning.
  

265 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Rebbes

1. Baal Shem Tov
   
   

In the early years of the Baal Shem Tov’s revelation, he would make frequent visits to towns and cities for three purposes:

1. To redeem captives – in those days there was a feudal system whereby Barons owned vast tracts and leased inns, mills, etc. and if someone couldn’t pay their rent, they would be imprisoned.

2. Inspire Jews to study Torah, and love each other.

3. Reveal the secrets of the Torah to Torah scholars.
 

257 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

1. Respect Tzaadikim
   
   

There are three types of fights / Galus (exiles).

a. The exile of the Jews under Gentiles (eventually this shifts…)

b. A harsher exile is the persecution of the Sages who are humiliated by the ignoramuses – who claim “they are the truth” (and mock Torah) this too shall shift.

c. And the harshest exile, is the exile of the Righteous Altruistic Sages from the narcissistic ones (whom cannot handle the honor, respect, and dignity of the Righteous Sages, hence ridicule and persecute them, and this causes the uneducated people to lack respect for scholars / Tzaddikim, which causes that the Gentiles lack respect for Jews.)  

{We must have the greatest respect and reverence for the Holy Tzaddikim.}

3 Balak– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Our Leaders
   
   

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a tall powerful man, standing all tall and proud – however the sun was beating mercilessly upon him and he was in danger of sunstroke but didn’t know how to help himself.  A wise short man came by and started drinking water so he could realize what to do, but as this man was so tall and arrogant he didn’t want to learn from him. 
So the wise man threw up some water, hoping it would be easy for him to catch some drops.  But he pursed his lips shut!
Then from sunstroke he passed.
  
The lesson is: G-d sends us wise humble leaders who try to inspire us! – If we are clever we will listen and learn from them!
 

1 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Jokes on..

There are two types of jesters. The first are those who make fun of a Tzaddik. 

The second is the Tzaddik, who being so certain in his path of G-d, laughs it off.  

2 Bamidbar– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Joy From Giving To G-d

There are Tzaddikim who rejoice in their ability to make G-d happy.
 

54 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Minagdim
   
   

The satan complained to G-d that it was unfair… as Moshe through His miracles would get the whole world to do Teshuvah /  repent. So he was granted, that for every Tzaddik that is born, an opposer to him is also.

{If we recognize there is a great Tzaddik such as the Rebbe, the fact there are unscrupulous rabbis that may mock him, not only is not an indication that he is wrong, but that He is such a great Tzaddik who has the capacity to cause the world to do Teshuvah as such the opposition is only to provide free choice.  We recognize this in the antagonism towards all the greatest Tzaddikim from Moshe Rabbeinu, The Rambam, The Baal Shem Tov etc.}
  

6 Korach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Minagdim
   
   

Those that mock Tzaddikim sin in Zera Livatalah – as those who sin with their mouth are caused to sin in this.
 

12 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Minagdim
   
   

Those who brazenly mock Tzaddikim and good Jews, sin in the defilement of their Bris. Upon them the verse states, “Wicked person, why do you speak about my commandments.”

{Never take the mockery of antagonists against Holy Good People seriously, as it is due to their shortcomings and jealousy.}    

10 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Learn from Your Rebbe
   
   

It is not enough to study Torah; one must travel to the Tzaddik of the generation. 

We understand this as G-d said to Moshe “Write this as a memory in the Torah, and tell it to Yehoishua;” Seemingly if it is written, why must it be told as well?  The main Torah we learn is what we hear from the Tzaddik of the generation.

The Medrash gives an example of a king who gave his son two crowns. But the son lost one of the crowns so he told him, “My son, you lost one crown – protect the other.” 

Originally G-d gave the Jewish people two crowns corresponding to their saying “Naaseh” (we will obediently follow the Torah) and “Nishma” (we will strive to understand.)

After the sin of the golden calf the Jews lost the crown of Naaseh (obedience). As such protect the crown of “listening!”

We get the main reverence for G-d from the Tzaddik of the generation.

21 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1.  Rebbe
   
   

By attaching yourself to a Tzaddik, He will elevate your soul.
 

74 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Rebbe = Shechina – Source
   
   

The Tzaddik of the generation is deeply attached to G-d and the Shechinah is constantly upon Him and it is through Him that all those who are attached (namely follow) Him (or at least don’t hate – antagonize Him) that the Shechinah comes to the people.

***

The blessings for the generation, come through the Head (Rebbe) of the generation.

{This teaches the tremendous importance of following the Rebbe as He is the source both of the Shechinah as well as literally the material blessings for His generation.}

Note 3 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Rebbe + People
   
   

The entire Jewish people are a single entity – soul and a body; and just as the body needs the soul, the soul needs the body. 

Separate yourself not from the Jewish people, rather look after them with a kind eye to bring them back to the good path.

(A message to the Rebbes of the generation.)
  

8 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Rebbe = Yiras Hashem
   
   

The Talmud famously queries regarding what Moses said, “What is G-d asking of you but to fear Him?” querying, “Is fear such a simple thing to achieve?!”
 

And it replies, “Yes, for Moses it is.”

The obvious question is that this demand is being made to the Jewish people, not Moses.

The Baal Shem Tov explains that when people have fear / awe of their Rebbe, it is easy to then have fear / awe of G-d.

14 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Connect To Grow
   
   

The main thing is to connect to the Tzaddik, for through Him – through seeing His face, one’s own character is greatly improved – it eliminates laziness and sadness and all lusts. 

Similarly by giving to the Tzaddik’s discretionary fund – this improves one’s character and all one lacks is rectified.

Furthermore the Tzaddik also elevates all of one’s prayers, for G-d longs for the prayers of the Tzaddik. They reveal G-d in this world – and through this one comes to true completion.
 

An example of this is a villager who wished to come speak to the king, but the king didn’t have time for his long-winded request. So he asked one of the ministers who understood how to request of the king to ask on his behalf.  

{The Tzaddik having tremendous Divine “connections” can elevate your prayers. In addition it pays to watch videos and study the Torah of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and other Tzaddikim.

You can send prayer requests to Rebbe@ohel.org (Write your Jewish name and the name of your mother (for example “Michoel Zev ben Chaya Blumah Halevi.”) Additionally it is good to add an extra Mitzvah (good deed) when you make a request – for a blessing is like water, and the extra Mitzvah is like the seed, and together the miracle grows.}

76 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Rebbes
   
   

From the times of the Baal Shem Tov, the preciousness of connecting to the Tzaddik of the generation, and all genuine Tzaddikim was revealed.  It is from their words we live!

73 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1.  Tzaddikim are STRONG

Our Sages teach that G-d called Yaakov “E-l” because a Tzaddik is truly strong in that He subdues His Yetzer Hara, and the Divine name “E-l” represents strength.
  

9 Vayishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Constantly Elevating
   
   

The Tzaddik is called “Who?”

Because He is always elevating from level to level – so wherever you look, it is as if He has gone away  (from the former location.)
  

4 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Tzaddikim Elevating Us
   
   

All the “Aliyois” (the process of taking our words, whether in Torah, Prayer or even mundane words, and our emotions, and allowing them to elevate to G-d) occur through the Tzaddikim.

This comes about through being attached / connected to the Tzaddik.

The disciples of the Tzaddik receive this through His Torah and Prayers, and simple people receive this through the Tzaddik speaking – and also when the Tzaddik hears their speech and stories and inserts Divine energy into it. Furthermore He derives extraordinary lessons in serving G-d, as well as sees from these stories etc. what is lacking in the Shechinah (for all lack is lack in the Shechinah) and prays for the Shechinah.

This is especially applicable to the Dayan – Rabbinical judge of the city, that He should elevate all the stories and litigations that He hears, to the inner light of the Torah.

Note 90 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Trust Tzaddikim
   
   

There are three verifications: sight, sound and comprehension. 
“Seeing is believing,” and hearing, though less concrete, is still a verification.

But third-party verification is the least… For example, if you see lightning, it’s obvious that lightening exists; if you hear thunder, though you cannot see it, it’s still obviously there… but if someone tells you something (for example that “on the moon there are unique explosions”) it’s less substantiated.     

The truth is, if our sins did not create a barrier to our soul’s vision and senses, we would see from one end of the world to the other, and we would see G-dliness! Furthermore, our ears would hear the announcements that come daily from the Heavenly court, but as we cannot see or hear, we must trust those who do.

{I embellished this teaching with the examples of lighting, thunder, “and moon explosions.” Translator

The Lesson is that though we cannot see or hear the visions of G-d but as the Rebbe / Tzaddikim can, we should trust and follow them.}
 

175 Kesser Shem Tov

• Follow the Rebbe

The Tzaddik of the generation can see from one end of the world to the other, and there are those who are blind and can’t… but if they merely follow!

{By following the Rebbe who does see everything we benefit.} 

28 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Tzaddikim – Minyan
  
  

The Gemara says, “Any prayer that has not a sinner praying together with the Minyan (quorum of Ten) is no prayer.”

Does this mean we must go specifically to find a sinner?  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that if there are ten Tzaddikim (righteous Jews) praying, their passion should be such that just as a wet twig won’t light… but if you combine it with ten dry twigs it too will catch fire, their devotion should light up the sinner’s heart.    

358 Kesser Shem Tov

Shabbos & Yom Tov

•  Tehillim – Elul
  
  

The Alter Rebbe told the Tzemach Tzeddek, “I heard from my Master (The Maagid) who heard from His (The Baal Shem Tov) who heard from His famous Master (Achiyah Hashiloini) that from the second day of Elul, one should begin saying the entire Tehillim by reciting three chapters daily, and then on Yom Kippur conclude the final 36.”
  

244 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Elul
  
  

Our Sages ordained we should blow the Shofar the entire month of Elul. 

The inner meaning behind this is that if the Leaders of the Generation improve their deeds, as Moses in the desert would do during Elul, by secluding themselves and focusing on self-improvement, they thereby attach themselves to and elevate the people of the generation.

However, if they do not do this, and they are in exile within their Yetzer Hara, then the people of the generation must pray for themselves.

Rosh Hashanah 1 – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Elul – Rosh Hashanah – Yom Kippur – Teshuvah
  
  

There are two Teshuvois (repentance) for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.

1. The general Teshuvah of Rosh Hashanah is (Kabbalas Oil) accepting subservience to G-d.
2. The specific Teshuvah of Yom Kippur is to specify and rectify each sin.
   
   

The service in Cheshboin Hanefesh (“soul accounting”) that one does during the month of Elul determines how one’s Teshuvah (return to G-d) during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur will go.

In general, the preparation during Elul is a generalized preparation, but there must also be the specific preparation for the Teshuvah of Rosh Hashanah which occurs during Selichois, and the specific preparation for the Teshuvah of Yom Kippur which occurs during the Aseres Yimei Teshuvah.    

17 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Selichos
  
  

Elul is a general preparation for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (by rectifying the sins of the year) but the specific preparation for Rosh Hashanah is during Selichois, when we say, “To you G-d is mercy and we are ashamed.”

In other words, when we truly supplicate.  

17 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Baal Shem Tov’s Elul / Tishrei
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov had specific customs for the weekdays, Shabbos, and festivals (relative to the spiritual dynamic).

From Elul till after Yom Kippur, he was in the dynamic of “fear of G-d.”  

Then he went into the dynamic of joy.
  

243 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Rosh Hashanah
  
  

A general Teshuvah / return to G-d on Rosh Hashanah is accepting Him as your King!  

17 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Rosh Hashanah
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that, generally speaking, every Mitzvah we do we should have more love than fear of G-d.

 However, when it comes to Rosh Hashanah, we should have more fear.  

37 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Rosh Hashanah

Whatever we think on Rosh Hashanah, good or bad… becomes what is written as our judgment for the year.

As such, a person should:
a. Be careful to think positively!
b. If you do have a negative thought, transform it to a positive (say fear to hope), as the satan tries hard to put in bad thoughts…  

And you can sweeten them through the Divine name of A”b or Mesiras Nefesh (giving your desires to G-d).
  

45 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Hashanah

On Rosh Hashanah all the thoughts a person had throughout the year elevate, and they receive a great light that the thought should be clearer, similar to the clarity of thought we have when we wake up. 

However the thoughts that are not so good – that block good thoughts… are cast out.  

45 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Rosh Hashanah – Build The Shechinah
  
  

41. The verse states, “Penina had children, but Channah did not have children.”
 

Penina hints to the Sitra-Achra, G-d-forbid, as the Sages say, “Satan and Penina…” and Chanah hints to the Shechinah.

The verse is bemoaning the lack of Tzaddikim… that there aren’t enough righteous people who are giving birth to the Shechinah – that it should have words to boast about their good deeds and the people that build it. 

But the children of the Sitra Achra G-d-forbid, which is “Penina” are many… 

For many follow those paths G-d-forbid – they become children of the dark-side, to build it up due to their sins.  

42. The verse is also complaining about the actions of men that are lazy in study of Torah and deep prayer.

 
Because unfortunately the negative side has many children… but the Shechinah cannot boast about the actions of the Tzaddikim. 

As it lacks children to build her fortress – for her main growth depends on the Tzaddikim building the Shechinah within themselves. 

And this is aside from those who intentionally G-d-forbid sin, and hence build the sitra achra.

43. Penina (Kelipahs nogah) has children, namely emotions of bad (or foreign) loves and fears (such as financial etc.) but Chana / Malchus of Kedusha has no children – love or fear of G-d…  

41-43 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Praising G-d  

The Baal Shem Tov once said on the second night of Rosh Hashanah, “G-d takes incredible pleasure in the praise that His children on earth give Him, to the extent that the greatest infinitely wise Angels and even the Holy Sephiros of Atzilus cannot comprehend it.” 

170 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Rosh Hashana – Prayers (Children)

“In days bygone, when there was ample sustenance, it was good. 

But now children, pray for your parents that they should have the ability to send you to Yeshiva!”

24 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Hashanah – Redemption Prayer
  
  

As the Satan tries to stop the sound of the great Shofar of redemption, likewise the individual’s redemption. 

As it is written “My soul is close to redemption.”
As I heard from my Master (the Baal Shem Tov) that each person should pray to G-d to redeem him from the Yetzer Hara, especially on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
(Toildois Yaakov Yosef.)
   

33 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Hashanah / Yom Kippur – Inspiration to Teshuvah

“Any generation in which the Beis Hamikdosh is not built, it is as if it was destroyed.” 
So imagine how sorrowful the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur were in the year of its destruction, similarly, we must feel such sorrow.  

{Pray for the construction of the Beis Hamikdosh and the coming of Moshiach!}

Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Hashanah – Prayers

Through distracting thoughts, a prayer is considered invalid… and it’s thrown to the location of the blemished sacrifices. And when one prays on Rosh Hashanah properly – it elevates all of the year’s prayers! The Shacharis, Minchah, Maariv of Rosh Hashanah elevate the Shacharis, Mincha, Maariv of the whole year.   

38 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Rosh Hashanah – Prayers / Shema
  
  The prayers that are not said properly, are held in abeyance by various Angels until Rosh Hashanah, and then if a person prays properly – they elevate to G-d. 

But if they are not elevated from proper prayer, they are passed out of Heaven, to the invalid sacrifices.

The main thing is, on this day, to concentrate in Shemah … 

Have in mind the 10 Commandments.

Renew your dedication to G-d:

1. When you say in Shemah,  “G-d your Lord,”
bear in mind – (the first of the Ten Commandments) “I am G-d Your Lord.”
 

2. When you say the word “Echad,”
bear in mind – “You should have no G-d’s besides me.”

3. When you say the words “Vehavata” / “You should love,”
bear in mind – “Not to take G-d’s name in vain,”
for one doesn’t humiliate a friend.

4. “The Mezuzois of your home” = “Do not be jealous.”

5. “You will gather your grains” = “Do not steal.”

6. “You will swiftly perish” = “Do not murder.”

7. “To lengthen the days of your life” = this refers to “Honor your father and mother.”

8. When one says, “Do not follow your heart’s desire” = this refers to, “Do not commit adultery.”

9. When one says, “All my Mitzvois…” this refers to “Remember the day of Shabbat” which is compared to the entire Torah.

10. And in the final verse, “I am G-d your Lord,” this refers to, “Do not bear false witness.”

Then you should be careful that you do not miss even one letter of the Shemah …  and Adam Harishoin smells all the Shemahs that elevate. And those that are missing (defective), he puts them into the chamber for invalid sacrifices.  

{It is critical to try to pray with full concentration on Rosh-Hashanah, particularly during the Shemah, as we are rectifying any prayer said throughout the year without proper concentration, and it’s the last chance for these prayers to elevate to G-d.}

40 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Hashanah – Prayers
  
  

If a person can pray properly just once, he can elevate all the impure prayers which remained below (as they couldn’t elevate to Heaven) for many years.

{Try to concentrate as much as possible during Rosh Hashana to elevate all prayers said without.}     

Note 20 Rosh Hashanah – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Shofar
   

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of the meaning behind the blowing of the Shofar. Once children got lost in a forest, and from their deep fear they called, “Father Father protect us!”
Now it is known how much a parent loves to hear their child, especially when it comes from their depth of heart.
    

196 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Shofar
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov explains that our cry during the Shofar should not be for our pain, but rather for our salvation.
  

193 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Shofar
  
  

The blast of the Shofar is the sound of the soul crying (longing for her father).  

The Baal Shem Tov gives a parable – once there was a king who had a wise son he loved dearly, and in order for the son to learn more wisdom and acquaint himself with the customs of others, they thought he should travel. 

So the king appointed many ministers and servants for the prince, and together with a large treasure-chest, off he went. 

This was all in order for him to deepen his wisdom and increase his sensitivity, even more than  he had in the palace.  

As time went on, all his money was spent… This was both because he was accustomed to such a grand lifestyle, but even more so because he indulged his every whim, until he had to pawn everything.
  

In the interim he ended up in a faraway land where his father wasn’t even known.

When he told people that he is the son of a great king, not only did they not believe him, they had never even heard of the king!  

When he realized his luck ran out, he decided to return. 

But as so much time had passed, he forgot his native tongue… so arriving at his home country, all he could do was indicate with sign language that he was the son of the king. The people thought he was nuts, and he suffered both verbal and physical abuse.

In such a state, he arrived at the palace. And once again he indicated to the guards that he was the son of the king. 

Seeing such a disheveled, broken and beaten person, they paid no attention, and so he figured he would cry, for hopefully his father would recognize his son’s tone. 

When the king heard his cry, he was filled with love, “Is this not the voice of my son?!” 

He ran and hugged and kissed him.  

Similarly, we Jews are Princes in Heaven, and the Soul is sent into a Body, in order to study.

In other words, through Torah and Mitzvos we achieve a far greater privileged position – but as the body and its desires begin to take hold of us… As we start to seek money and other foolish pleasures and as we become consumed by this lust / passion we become so distant that we forget the name of our Father… We forget what we are lacking, and we become miserable both spiritually and materially (as one effects the other).

When we wake up! and wish to return to our Heavenly Father – we don’t know what to say, so we simply give a heartfelt cry!

This is the sound of the Shofar, resonating from the depths of our soul – a repentance, a regret for our past, and a resolution for the future; to adhere to the will and wisdom of G-d.

And it is this sound that inspires The Holy One Blessed-Be-He, and He demonstrates His unbounded love for us and forgives us of everything! (The forgiveness is the idea of Yom Kippur, then sitting in the Sukkah is like we are being hugged.)
   

194 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Shofar
  
  

A beautiful example: once a king sent his sons to hunt for him, but they got lost. They wanted their father to save them, but worried that perhaps they had forgotten the language of their father.

So they sent one person just to shout – they told him, “Realize that we all depend on you.” 

In the same way, G-d sent us to elevate sparks, and we lost our way – so we send one person,  namely the one who blows the Shofar – to simply cry out!
 

31 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shofar
  
  

All who follow the custom of the Baal Shem Tov blow thirty Shofar blasts after the Torah reading, thirty blasts during the silent Amidah (Musaf), thirty in the Chazaras Hasha”tz and ten in Kaddish before Tiskabel.  

44 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Shofar – Inspiration for the Shofar Blower
     

“When the watchman on the watchtower sees a threat, he blows the Shofar. And you have come onto the tower of the Synagogue; Do you see all the negative demons (bad Angels etc.) who surround the chair where you are blowing, as The Earlier Holy Ones would see, and “chop off the thorns?”

This is why it is called a “Day of Teruah / Blowing.”

As a poor person knocking on the door; open for us the doors of righteousness!
  

Open for us the Gates of Heaven; for in your hand is the key to the gates of mercy. 

“This is the gateway to G-d, the righteous will walk through it.”  

19 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur – Inspiration to Teshuvah
  
  There are demons surrounding the Holy Throne (of G-d) and the soul (of man). They surround it to swallow us as it states, “It was the day…” (the day of Rosh Hashanah).
  “And the sons of G-d…” referring to those that are judged, “came before the judge,” G-d.
  
  “Also the Satan came…” This includes Lilith. 
  
  And in Egypt, it says, “The Jewish people lifted their eyes – the Egyptians were chasing them, and the Jews cried to G-d.”
  
  Therefore the satan, the great enemy, chases us with its demons to swallow us. Why should we be silent?! 
  Let us fall before G-d and ask what shall be our end?!
  
  As such there is panic and crying before Yom Kippur in the evening.  For it’s the last time of the ten days of Teshuvah.
  
  On Yom Kippur the Satan cannot prosecute…  So, the Satan comes with all its power to prosecute against people, and as the peoples’ souls can see this, they cry… the men, women, and children. 
  
  And they should actually cry throughout the ten days of repentance – for our Sages have taught, “Better one day of repentance and good deeds in this world, then the entire good fortune of the world to come.”
   
  How much more so every hour and minute during the ten days of repentance! 
  
  Now the day of Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of the ten days of repentance, is a very holy and auspicious time to create a pleasant delight before the Creator.
  
  Cry tears of joy that we have merited to stand before His Holy Throne, before the King, who sits on the exalted and glorious Throne, and He adorns His Throne with kindness and truth. 
  
  Now we can give Him joy, and incredible joy!
  
  Through this, we banish all the negative judgments against us. 
  
  Through this, our Father, King is inspired.
  
  “May this time be the time of mercy and compassion before you!
  
  G-d, we know not all the secrets of the mysticism behind the Shofar – we only know how to humbly do Your will… and we have done Your will. 
  
  Now please do Your part – do not unjustifiably judge us. 
  
  Open to us the gates of repentance.”  
  
  
  

22 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Yom Kippur
  
  

A specific returning / Teshuvah on Yom Kippur is to specify each sin and to cleanse them, and become pure.
  

17 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Yom Kippur
    

In the Beis Hamikdosh on Yom Kippur, they would hang a red thread, and when it turned white it was a sign that the Jews were forgiven.
 

If there was a case when they couldn’t determine, the Jews would be sad (as they didn’t know if they were forgiven or not).
Today of course we do not know, so it is like a sword hanging over one’s head… 

Nonetheless one should never stop asking for mercy!

50 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Yom Kippur
  
  

The reason we call the day after Yom Kippur “G-d’s day” is because we stop saying, “The Holy King” (“Hamelech Hakadosh”) and we begin saying “the Holy G-d.”
  

51 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Neilah

Before Neilah on Yom Kippur pray “small” / with less intense concentration, so that you can say Neilah with “great” / much concentration.  

39 Tzavaas Harivash

• Sukkah
  
  

When we sit in the Sukkah for seven days (using the Sukkah as we should… for the law is in addition to eating and drinking to do as many activities as possible within it) then we draw the hovering light of our soul which is exceptionally high, to settle / dwell within us. 

{Take the privilege and opportunity during Sukkois to spend as much time as possible within the Sukkah, which will affect your subsequent year.}

26 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Sukkah
  
  

When the Baal Shem Tov “pitched his tent of Torah” in Mezibuz, there were many great Rabbis who opposed him (due to ignorance). They came to His flimsy Sukkah and told him “Based on Torah law” it was not kosher. 

He argued / debated the law with them.

Seeing they were adamant – He put His hand on His head for a few moments, and opened His hand – there was a note written on a piece of parchment, “The Sukkah of Rabbi Yisroel Baal Shem Tov Is Kosher” Signed Matat, the (Angel who is the) Interior Minister.

This note was inherited by the grandson of the Baal Shem Tov – the Holy Rebbe of Zdilikov (“Degel Machaneh Efraim”) and when G-d-forbid someone was ill they would go to the Rebbe who told them to put the note under the head of the ill person… and they would immediately get better.

This worked for two years and not a single person in the city passed – and once they put the note by an ill person and it literally disappeared. 

The Rebbe explained that he was told from Heaven that they were not pleased about this practice for “those who are born must pass.” 

Therefore he prayed that the note be removed.

{The reason the Baal Shem Tov’s Sukkah was so flimsy was He wished that every Jew whose Sukkah was not on the highest standard should be included (in other words, that theirs should be considered Kosher.)}

1 Sukois – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Holidays / Yom Tov – Prepare

The festivals are “Holy days.” 

In other words, during these days an awesome holiness descends upon the Jewish people within the world.

However, depending on the extent we have spiritually prepared for the festival is how much of this energy we will experience.

{In other words we must spiritually prepare ourselves by studying the Chassidus about the upcoming festival and then we are truly able to receive the great light that descends.}  

25 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Purim
  
  “And these days of Purim shall not cease from the Jews…” Purim never ends, rather it’s reenacted in every generation.
  
  {In every generation the descendants of Amalek try to G-d-forbid annihilate the Jewish people – as Reb Hillel of Paritch teaches “the spirit of Amalek inhabits a different tribe every generation” but through G-d’s salvation, they are destroyed!}
  
  

7 Meggilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Festival – Lessons

“Whoever reads the story of the Megillah in reverse order does not fulfill the obligation” (Jewish law).  

The Baal Shem Tov explains, whoever reads the story of the Megillah (which primarily applies to all our festivals and Biblical stories) and thinks “this is history…” not realizing this is really guidance for life – misses the point.  

100 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Purim
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that one who thinks that Purim happened but is not happening – that we are not currently witnessing the same miracle of G-d’s continuous watchful salvation, has not fulfilled the Mitzvah.

8 Meggilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shavous
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov had a great love for the second day of Shavous.

His custom was that they would wake up early and pray, and then have a small meal for ten close disciples.

Then the Baal Shem Tov would conduct a large Farbrengen during the day (where everyone participated / was welcome.)
  

249 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Shavous
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov had a custom to give everyone Mashke / vodka on the first day of Shavous.

Note 12 Ki Tova– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• The Three Weeks
  
  

During the three weeks, which are difficult times, and the Satan is strengthened, it is an appropriate time to review your deeds…

To ensure they are holy, particularly regarding the Bris (not wasting seed). And whoever does this receives greater Shechinah.
 

2 Megilas Eicha  – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos
  
  

What is the meaning of the prayer we say on Shabbos “And spread your Sukkah of peace…”  

On Shabbos the infinite Holiness of G-d beams onto the world and mainly for the Jewish people.

The idea of Sukkah is the concept of “Tzippi-yah” (longing). For as G-d’s holiness and love beams on us, this causes a reciprocal longing.

Peace is the connection between the creations and their Creator – it is in fact both Shalom (completion) as well as peace.

We know the idea of a Sukkah is that it has Schach / vegetative covering which allows the sun rays to beam through. 

Similarly on Shabbos, Divinity beams to each Jew according to their capacity.

As the Zohar says, “Shabbos is the day for the soul” (not mentioning the body.) 

And the main thing on Shabbos is to connect to this Divinity, through prayer and Torah study.

Those with a sensitive heart will experience this.    

402 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shabbos

See to it that you keep every single Halachic observance of our Holy Shabbos.

{On Shabbos the Shechinah comes to us – like hosting a queen, so making the house beautiful and fulfilling the Shabbos laws, are the fitting “entourage.”}  

Kesser Shem Tov (Beginning)

• Shabbos
  
  

The letters (in Hebrew) of Teshuvah, spell “Shabbos Vov Hei.” 

In the Divine Name, the Yud refers to wisdom, the Hei, Binah; the Vov emotions; and the final Hei, Malchus.

Yud and Hei are the Hidden realm; Vov and Hei are the Revealed. 

On Shabbos the service to G-d is with intellect, hence the Vov Hei is elevated.

{If I understand correctly, Shabbos which is a spiritual day, elevates our Malchus and emotions Heavenward.}
  

237 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Shabbos – Aware
  
  

During Shabbos, we should continuously think about its holiness, even more than the concentration / awareness we must have of G-d when we have Teffilin on.   

{Be conscious of G-d throughout Shabbos.}

86 Brieshis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Shabbos – Baal Shem Tov
  
  

The students of Reb Aron Leib of Primishlamen were sitting and discussing miracles of the Baal Shem Tov, and the Holy Rabbi was sitting in His room nearby and heard them speaking.
 

He opened his door and said to them, “Why are you speaking about His miracles?

“Speak about His great holiness and fear of G-d…  Every Erev Shabbos (Friday) at Chatzois (midday) His heart would pound and all His inner organs would ‘clang against themselves’ due to the great awe and reverence they would sense from the upcoming Shabbos, and the Holiness of the incoming day – and whoever was in the vicinity could actually hear it!”
  

Note 11 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Erev Shabbos / Elevating
  
  

Erev Shabbos during Mincha, and the time of Kabbalas Shabbas / Maariv, we elevate all the prayers and the Mitzvos that we did during the whole week.

For then all the universes elevate.
  

21 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Erev Shabbos

The Baal Shem Tov established that we should say Psalm 107 (Hodu) every Erev Shabbos. We need to purify ourselves at this time.

24 Yisroi – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Meals
  
  

Once a prince was captured by the enemy, and he was forced to be in a debased foreign country with lowlifes.

The king desperately wished to save his son so he sent a coded letter to his son that he should not give up hope, for the king would rescue him either through war or peace.

The son was elated! However he thought “How can I celebrate without people realizing?!”

Said the prince to the people of the city, “Come let us go get drunk at the bar.” 

While they celebrated an outer joy, he was celebrating an inner. 

And this is exactly the notion of feeding the body delicacies on Shabbos.

For then the body is happy and the soul can sing (focus of the spiritual delights.)

85 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Shabbos – Joy
  
  

By recalling during Shabbos that the sweetness experienced from our extra Neshama throughout Shabbos will dissipate as Shabbos ends – we will enjoy it that much more!
 

6 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Preparation / Mikvah
  
  

One should keep Shabbos according to its law and all of its details.

One who does this, even if he sins through idolatry, all his sins are forgiven.  

A person should prepare to accept the holiness of Shabbos.  

Therefore males should dip in the Mikvah every Erev Shabbos (Friday).

Before this, he should feel a great humility, heart-broken, unacceptable to himself… and accept upon himself the obligation of obedience to G-d.
 

To leave all sinning behind and to feel disgusted with oneself from one’s many sins.

Now one is prepared to serve G-d with love (Ahavah) and with awe (Gevurah).

This is but in order that G-d should take glory in him (Tifferes).

This is what the verse says, “The Jewish people in whom I glorify.”

And the person sacrifices himself for the name of G-d.

And through this he will beat the dark side (Netzach) – with trust in G-d that He will return (or accept) Him.

He should show gratitude (Hod) that he has been saved from “the depths of the sea.” Then he is included in the category of “the Tzaddik is the foundation of the earth” (Yesoid).

Through this the greatness of G-d’s Majesty (Malchus) will become glorified, and His name will last forever and for all generations.

After the above meditation, one should dip in the Mikvah.    

11 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Love
  
  

In all that we do, study, and Daven / Pray on Shabbos, the main emphasis should be on love (of G-d) in contrast to fear.

35 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Pleasure
  
  

One can take immense pleasure just from the Shabbos.
 

319 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shabbos – Preparation
  
  

We must clear our mind of all our worldly concerns as a preparation to enjoy Shabbos!  

157 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shabbos – Prepare
   

The Baal Shem Tov says, “There is tilling, planting, and harvesting…”

The three days leading to Shabbos are Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.

These days are the days of doing everything to prepare oneself in order to have a spiritual Shabbos – this is Tilling.

The lofty spiritual prayers of Shabbos (which are a result of the preparations) then bear fruit (this is planting.)

They then draw down Divine illumination that one reaps during the next three days (Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday, which equates to harvesting).
   

30 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Shabbos – It’s Purpose
  
  

G-d gave us the Shabbos so we should be able to have a free day to study Torah.  

319 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shabbos – Shalesh Seudois
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov and His Holy disciples were scrupulous to have the third Shabbos meal and to do so with many people.

Note 60 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Shabbos – Torah Table Talk
  
  

When we speak words of Torah at our table, this acts as a soul to the physicality of the table. As such, we should speak many words of Torah. 

This applies during the weekday… imagine how much more so it applies on Shabbos!

{Whenever you eat, share at least one insight from the Torah and on Shabbos at least two.}  

18 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Torah – Pleasure
  
  

A Tzaddik’s main pleasure from Shabbos is from the Shabbos itself. And from the purity of Torah and prayer in holiness that He performs during Shabbos.

Shabbos was given to the Jewish people in order for them to have a day free to study Torah. 

As our Sages teach, the Torah said to G-d, “When the Jews enter into Israel, and they will be busy with business… what will become of me?” (As Torah was their sole preoccupation during the duration in the desert.)

Said G-d, “There is one day that you will be matched to.”   

And this is what we say, “Rejoice in your Kingdom O’ You who keeps Shabbos, and call it a pleasure.”
 
And what is the true pleasure? 

To give pleasure in the Shabbos.    

“You should be satisfied and take pleasure in its goodness” this means through the agency of the Torah. 

For the nature of Torah is that the more a person is satisfied from it, the more pleasure it gives them.

This what the verse writes, “More precious than gold and many pearls” this means the words of the Torah are more precious than gold and many pearls. 

For though one may receive pleasure from money, it lacks the ability to make one satisfied.

This is not the case when it comes to Torah, “They are more sweet than honey…”  sweet foods after one is satisfied, one lacks pleasure; as it says, “Lest you are satisfied and regurgitate;” however Torah satisfies and causes pleasure.

It also says, “Your servant was Nizhar (careful) in it.” Nizhar also means to shine. 

For all earthly wisdoms do not refine the person – neither his body nor his soul. 

And even more so secular philosophy about which it says, “None who go to her return… neither do they achieve the way of life.” 

However the wisdom of the Torah refines both the body and the soul. 

Therefore Adam Harishon before he sinned, our Sages state, “His heel was brighter than the sun.” 

For the sun was created to serve the world, and he was created to serve G-d. 

And what caused his light to shine? Through His study of Torah, as it says regarding Moses, “That his face shown.”
 
{On Shabbos study much Torah!}

37 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Elevating The Week To G-d

When we pray Mincha on Erev Shabbos (Friday) and during Kabbalas Shabbos (Shabbos evening service) we elevate all of our Holy Speech and Mitzvos throughout the week. (Like a suitcase brought to the door, and the concierge brings it up…)
 

299 Kesser Shem Tov

• Shabbos Passion / Joy

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a Prince who was a doctor and went to a village to heal people. Once he got a nice gift and a letter from his father the King, and he was very happy.
He wished to celebrate, but he didn’t want the villagers to think that he was odd… so he bought alcohol for the peasants, and they all celebrated together.
Similarly, we should for example on Shabbos etc. truly enjoy the food etc. for in this way we make the body happy (and it allows the soul to enjoy her pleasures as well.)

Note 3 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Potion of Life
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov said that he gave those who merited to taste food at His Shabbos table the “potion of life.”  They were healed from being obsessed with physical desires. 

In addition, He gave them the ability to act in their homes with holiness – for when it comes to the way humans react to health, they only seek treatment after illness. However, they still need to protect themselves so that in the future they don’t get ill.

This is the great power of a Tzaddik that from His Holy table, a person can be saved from problems in the future.

32 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shabbos – Yom Tov – Rosh Hashanah
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov quotes the teaching of the Kabbalists: All study of Torah, Prayer and Mitzvos should have an equal balance of love and reverence for G-d.
  

However on Rosh Hashanah, our reverence should outweigh our love.

And on Shabbos and Yom Tov, our love should outweigh our reverence.  

130 Kesser Shem Tov

Torah

• Getting G-d
  
  

“Whenever one touches and holds onto a part of something that is singular, namely G-d (through say Torah, Mitzvahs etc.) one is grasping the whole.”

{Every time you study Torah and do a Mitzvah you are interacting with G-d Himself!}
  

4 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Sifting and Improving Life
  
  

The point of studying Torah Shebal Peh (Halacha, Jewish law) is to differentiate between what is permitted and forbidden – kosher and unkosher – pure and impure.
For from the right side / Chessed comes giving and holiness, and from the left side Gevurah comes (the Yetzer Hara.)

By studying Torah we separate and rectify between the (left) negative that is intermingled with the positive. (Tumah from Taharah – Treif from Kosher – Osur from Mutar). They got intermingled in the sin of eating the forbidden fruit. In fact we reach the next dimension, whereby we mix Chessed and Gevurah (positively) in Yesoid (similar to Daas.)

{The Torah balances energies to make everything good and holy.}
 

54 Brieshis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Halacha
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov explained, that the Ta”z and Sha”ch (commentaries on Shulchan Aruch) are the final Poiskim (Halachic deciders). Hence one should not contravene their rulings unless one is being stricter.

One can only be more lenient if one is following a logic (such as “Hefsed Merubah…”) whereby they would concur.

But look not askance at the Holy Rabbis’ Halacha books (such as Kitzur etc.) written after the Sha”ch and Ta”z, for as they have been universally accepted in the Jewish world as such the energy of the Divine Spirit (Ruach Hakodesh) is within them.
 

3 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Lishma
  
  

What does it mean to study Torah altruistically / Lishma?

We know G-d says, “I have placed my soul within the very letters of the Torah.”

When we study Torah with the intent to unite with G-d (who is in the letters of the Torah) we actually accomplish this.

320 Kesser Shem Tov

• Lishmah – Uniting
  
  

Ideally, if we do a Mitzvah for the sake of G-d, then the Torah which is one with G-d and the Mitzvah, unite in perfect harmony and unity.

 However, when we do something with an ulterior motive (for example for recognition…) then this motive called Kelipah / encasing, acts as a barrier to the unity of the Mitzvah with G-d. 

{This can be understood with a story about the Baal Shem Tov: He once came to a Torah study hall and refused to enter, saying, “This place is filled with Torah.”

He was not offering a compliment though, for with His Divine vision He could see how instead of the Torah rising to Heaven, it remained encased within the confines of the lower realm of Kelipah due to the ulterior motives of the learners.}  

291 Kesser Shem Tov

• Passion For G-d
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov bequeathed to His disciples an inner passion in performing Torah and Mitzvos.
  

379 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Passion For G-d
  
  

“See I place before you life and death.”
 

In Torah and Mitzvos there is life. This occurs when you are attached to their inner dimension / Chassidus – not just what is pleasurable (to study and practice.)

1 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Maharsha
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov greatly praised the holiness of the Maharsha, to the extent that He said, “If the world knew His Holiness, they would lick the dirt under His feet.”          
                                                  

5 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Meal – Talk Torah
  
  

When we speak words of Torah during our meal we elevate the food (as we know everything has Divine sparks within it seeking redemption.)
  
You should speak an abundance of Torah during the meal in the weekdays and especially on Shabbos!
 

299 Kesser Shem Tov

• Night – Learning
  
  

Turn your nights into days… 

Sleep a few hours during the day, so that the little you sleep during the night will suffice.  

27 Tzavaas Harivash

• Pleasure, Satisfaction, Torah
   

In worldly matters, some things give you pleasure but not satisfaction; and some things are satisfying but cease to be pleasurable. For example a person who would like to be wealthy gets pleasure from money and “the more the merrier…” (but will not feel satisfied, as they will always want more.) Now a person who eats a meal, once they are satisfied, the food doesn’t offer additional pleasure.

All human ideas do not lead to the ultimate goal of refinement of character. (In fact human philosophy leads to “death” – negative ideas (as we see all too clearly!)

But from the study of Torah we receive pleasure, and satisfaction, and personal growth!
 

It refines both the body and the soul.

This is as we see that the ankle of Adam Harishon (Adam the first man) was so bright that it dimmed the light of the sun, for “The sun was created to serve man, but man was created to serve G-d,” and this light, as in Moses’ face was the luminance of the Torah.

The spiritual meaning that Adam was placed in Gan-Eden is that He was taught by G-d the Torah (which consists of Ga”n / 53 Torah portions, and He was taught by G-d the Mitzvos).

Furthermore G-d taught Him how to learn Torah, namely to always look for a positive lesson in all the Torah one studies (this is “the Tree of Life”) but “the Tree of Good and Evil” representing, “deciding which parts you resonate with / like or dislike” is death.

The ultimate goal is to be a Merkavah (vehicle) for the Divine.

Hence when we see good (such as words of Torah) we are literally then like the Divine who uses His (power of sight) “eyes” to see, and supervise the entire world. When we hear good, likewise (we cause G-d to be attentive to us); and when we use our hands for a Mitzvah such as Tzeddakah we are the tool of the Divine hand that bestows.

This in fact is the meaning of the Mishkan which mirrored Divine realms – in fact it was an exact copy! (Hence Betzalel needed to know all the sacred teachings / realms.) And the Mishkan is to teach us that if a physical building can contain the spirit (building, and names of G-d from Heaven) certainly a human who is called the Mishkan (dwelling place of G-d) can contain the Divine Shechinah.

{You contain G-d within.}

319 Kesser Shem Tov

• Seforim – Torah Books
  
  

All the Seforim – Holy Books written until the Maharsha, including the Maharsha, were written with the Divine Spirit (Ruach Hakodesh). 

And because they were written with the Divine Spirit, they are literally Torah.  

{Torah is the revelation of Divine wisdom.}

4 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  G-d Teaching
  
  

“And to Levi He spoke…” the Passuk (verse) is hinting to Levi, namely a person who is attached to G-d.

“He spoke…” teaches us that G-d Himself teaches him Torah! He doesn’t have to toil much.
  

2 Vzos – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Shulchan Aruch – Study
    

The Baal Shem Tov taught us to be scrupulous that both adults and children should study Shulchan Aruch – Code Of Jewish Law.

When people don’t know the Jewish laws, the Torah is forgotten from the Jewish people.  

18 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Infinite Spiritual Pleasure
  
  

The difference between physical and spiritual pleasure is whereas physical pleasure is connected to the body which itself is limited, therefore these pleasures become stale (as is known, “All constant pleasure ceases to be pleasurable.”)

But as for the pleasure of the soul – as the soul is – infinite! therefore the pleasure it can feel can constantly increase. 
And this is the idea which G-d tells us that “Torah should feel constantly fresh!” for we can always derive ever greater pleasure in it.

35 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Nodah Biyehuda
  
  

6. At the start of Rabbi Yechezkel Landau’s career (the Nodah Beyehudah), the Baal Shem Tov said that in Heaven they announced, “Protect (or be protective of) Yechezkel and his Torah.”    

Note 1 Many times the Baal Shem Tov stayed by the Nodah Beyehudah, who was very careful to do Hachnasas Oirchim (hosting graciously) and would serve the Baal Shem Tov tea.
But when the Baal Shem Tov realized that this deducted from his Torah study time, he stopped staying by him.  

7. The Baal Shem Tov said that the Nodah Beyehudah had a Neshama / soul that had never come to earth before and had been stored in “The Hidden Treasure House” above, until it came to earth.   

6 – 7 Note 1 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• To See The Spirit
  
  

Whenever Rashi says, “This is the simple explanation of the verse…” He means “When you separate yourself from the gross physicality / material drives… your soul will perceive the essence of the verse.”

(For the Hebrew word for simple / “pashtus,” also comes the word “pasthus” which is to separate.)

18 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Re-Jew-venate

The Torah restores (revives) the soul. 

When one approaches the study of Torah with pure faith and fear of G-d, then the light of the Torah revives the person.

It gives a tremendous appreciation of the greatness of G-d.  

59 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Torah = G-d
  
  

“ANOICHI” the first word of the Ten Commandments stands for “I (G-d) Have Written and Given My Soul.” 

“My soul” is the Torah.  

9 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Holy Torah
  
  

Within the Torah there is sweet and bitter waters. The sweet waters are the scholarship of all our Great Tzaddikim from Mosheh till current, in which the study of their Torah leads to Yiras Hashem (fulfillment of G-d’s will.)
 

In contrast the bitter waters are those who deny G-d and bring proofs from Torah against its fulfilment.

When one learns Torah without fear of G-d they end up tasting the bitter waters.

4 Mase– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Chiddushim (Novel Insights)

The question is well-known – how can it be that a great Torah scholar studied for weeks to understand a Jewish law, and then even a common person grasps it without communication between them?! 

The Holy Baal Shem Tov explains that this is like a pot of gold which sits on top of a cabinet and is beyond anyone’s reach.

One very wise man developed a system to bring it down and placed it on a table.

And now all can come and get it!  

Every novel Torah insight is under “G-d’s throne” until a great scholar through His immense effort and holiness draws it down into this world and now everyone can access it.

Shir Hashirim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah Elicits G-d

There is the compassion a father has for his sons, that even if his son has everything, he will give him any minor thing he needs. 

Then there is the compassion that a king has on an impoverished villager – this compassion is because the person is in major need. 

Then there is the pain a king has over his son’s pain. 

The difference between the first and latter two emotions is, while the former emotion is constant, the latter are dependent on the recipient (for if the villager is okay and if the son doesn’t have pain, then the king doesn’t feels the need to give to them.)

However if the son calls his father by his name, or if the villager calls the king by his honorific titles, practically this rouses the compassion (love) of the king. 

Similarly, G-d concealed Himself in the Torah – so besides His constant love for us due to the compassion He feels for our suffering, in addition, we rouse His compassion when we read the Torah. 

In other words, even someone who doesn’t understand the inner aspect of Torah, but reads it with love and compassion, this touches G-d.

For the entire Torah is names of G-d. 

G-d and His Torah are one – and just as when you call someone by their name, they stop everything they are doing and they respond…  similarly, G-d conceals Himself in the Torah and when you read Torah you draw Him down, and rouse His compassion and mercies. 

For He and His Torah / Name are one.
   

• eschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
  
  
•  Ascending Torah
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov once came to a Torah Study-Hall and he said that he cannot come in because it was filled with Torah and prayer. 

His disciples wondered, “What’s wrong with that? – What can be better than that?”

He explained to them, that if one’s Torah and prayer are done with love and awe of G-d, then it ascends Heavenward – but if it is done only for selfish reasons, it remains below.
  

55 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah & Prayer – Concentrating
  
  

Our Sages teach us regarding sacrifices, “Whether it is much or little – the only thing that matters is that your heart is dedicated to G-d.” 

The Baal Shem Tov explains that when a person learns Torah and prays, one must concentrate… and therefore even if somebody learns or prays less in order that their concentration should be better… this is as good as somebody who does more, and is able to concentrate longer.

7 Vayikra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Diveikus

There are three levels to Torah study:

The lowest is for some sort of personal benefit (such as honor etc.)

The medium level is to “Adorn the king” as the Holy Ar”i would first study “Pilpul” (for the Kelipos conceal the Torah’s light) and by studying Torah profusely, we break their hold and the Divinity shines.

The highest is the study of Torah in order to cleave to G-d who is found within the Holy letters.
 

42 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Elevating Non-Lishma
  
  

When someone learns Torah not for the sake of G-d, and later learns it for the sake of G-d… it elevates the previous Torah.  

Additionally the Tzaddik of the generation can elevate everyone.

5 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Torah – Infinite Elixir

It is written, “G-d’s Torah is complete – it restores / refreshes the soul.”

G-d’s Torah is consistently complete – nobody has actually even begun to study it! 

For it continuously revives the spirit of the person who studies it with an ever new energy.

Whoever studies the Torah with sincerity – it is as if he has never begun… and it continually revives / inspires him.

29 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Torah – Eternal

“Jacob never died” – the Torah is called Jacob, and just as we say regarding Jacob, “He never died,” the Torah is everlasting.  

6 Vayechi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

1. Study Torah Following Prayer

The Baal Shem Tov said, after prayer one must be very careful; for if one prayed with fear of G-d, these emotions can then turn into anger… And if a person prayed with love to G-d, these emotions can turn into lust. 

Therefore immediately after prayer, a person must delve into Torah study, or work… And this is the meaning of the Mishna, “All Torah (in this context, prayer) that doesn’t include work (or Torah study after prayers) in the end it becomes nullified, and leads to sin.”

166 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

1. Study Torah For G-d

If we study Torah because it is fascinating… this is meaningless! But if we study it to fulfill the Divine will, which can only be achieved through Torah and Mitzvos, it’s priceless!

174 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Halacha / Humility

Whoever studies Torah in general and especially Rabbis who offer Halachic rulings must pray (Daven) and truly beseech G-d that they should arrive at the truth (the correct Halacha – Jewish law.)
 

{When one is humble the conclusions they arrive at are true.}

230 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1. Study With Love/Awe

Just as the world was created with the two Divine names of Haveyeh and Eloikim, similarly whenever we study or pray, we must do so with these two names (namely bearing them in mind) which represent love and fear of G-d, respectively.

294 Kesser Shem Tov

1.  Torah – How To Focus

When you study, you should do so with great energy and joy! And this will lessen distracting thoughts.

51 Tzavaas Harivash

1. Torah – How To Teach

When you teach another Torah, first connect to G-d in your mind. And as your friend’s soul is also connected to G-d, for everyone lives but from His energy – now consider you are saying these words only before G-d, to give Him pleasure.

Furthermore “As I am not speaking to my friend (rather to G-d / namely his Soul) hence what difference will it make if he praises or shames me?!”

93 Tzavaas Harivash

1. True Torah – Guidance

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example – there were some businessmen traveling and they lost their way.

Being stuck in a forest, they went to sleep. 

They happened to meet some people, and they asked them for the way. The first group were kind and told them where to go, the second group were thieves and they led them to their den.  

Similarly, we come to this world like the lost businessman – the words of the Torah are the people who find us – if we study the Torah searching for the truth, it will lead us in the right way.

However, if study the Torah searching for ego, we will end up in a dark place.

137 Kesser Shem Tov

1. Sod (Minagdim)

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that if a person desires only to take the Torah on face value, Pshat, and not study the deeper Remez, Drush and Soid parts, this is not good. The spiritual reason one would have such an arrogance is because they look askance at their fellow Jews.

118 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Torah= Humility

Once the Baal Shem Tov took his disciples to a far-flung town. In this town lived a tanner (of carcasses) who was very devout, and would constantly say Tehillim. 

There also lived a sacred hermit who would constantly study Torah, and removed himself from all worldly affairs.   

The Baal Shem Tov took his students to the home of the tanner and asked his students to place their hands on one another’s shoulders and on the tanner’s. Then he closed the loop by placing his hands on the two closest students, and they were astounded to see the Heaven stored for this man. They then went to the house of the hermit who had amazing mental abilities, and could teach anyone anything. In fact, he would always say “This I heard from Elijah the prophet…” And once again the students formed a closed loop and they saw snakes and scorpions, which was the result of his arrogance. 

The Baal Shem Tov explained that although it says, “If one fasts for forty days and one removes oneself from worldly concerns they will merit to see Elijah,” nonetheless they will not merit to see their own soul.

126 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Torah = Humility

The Baal Shem Tov explains the bizarre statement that “Whoever dwells in Israel it is as if he has a G-d, and whoever dwells outside of Israel, it is as if he is G-dless.”

When one studies Torah and is connected to G-d, then they are dwelling spiritually in Israel, but when one is disconnected…

36 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Infinite Light

The Torah is complete – no one has taken anything from it!

For the Torah restores (revives) the soul – when one approaches the study of Torah with pure faith and fear of G-d, then the light of the Torah revives them.

It gives one a tremendous appreciation for the greatness of G-d.  

Therefore the Torah remains complete – no one has touched it.

{In other words, it is an inexhaustible supply of Divine light.} 

59 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Torah – Eternal Legacy

Whoever rejoices in the study of Torah and makes the Torah happy (I assume by this…) is fortunate that their children and grandchildren will likewise do so.

82 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Sod – Life

“See I place before you life and death.” 

In the Torah there is life which is when you are attached to the inner dimension, and not just what is pleasurable to you (to study.)  

1 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Torah Lishma – For Good Character

The Tzaddikei of Karlin say in the name of the Baal Shem Tov, the main study of Torah Lishmah (altruistically) is to study Torah in order to learn from it good characteristics.  

54 Veschanan – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Torah Lishma – Letters

The main study of Torah and Prayer is that one should attach oneself to the inner essential spirituality of the Infinite Light which is inside these letters. This is called “learning for the sake of G-d, Lishmah.” 

This is what Rebbi Meir said, “Whoever studies Torah for the sake of its name – Lishmah, receives many things, and to him is revealed the secrets of the Torah.” 

In other words, he will know the future and everything from the Torah.

And you will know how to behave in serving G-d, and you will see the Heavenly realms.

36 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Elevating The Holy Letters

An example for the letters of the Torah: once there were businessmen who were traveling in the forest, and they got lost and went to sleep… 

Someone found the businessmen, and led them to a den of thieves. 
While another found them and led them on the straight path. 

Similarly, the letters of Torah are lost in this world – those that use them and are inspired, elevate the letters to their source in G-d. 

Those that G-d-forbid use them to feel arrogant, denigrate the letters.  

32 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Money

To paraphrase: Whenever we have the opportunity to study Torah and do a Mitzvah we should! (Our Sages teach “whoever neglects the study of Torah while they are wealthy will have to neglect it while they are poor, while whoever engages in Torah while they are poor will be granted the ability to engage in it while they are wealthy.”)

6 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Study Passionately

When the great scholar Reb Dovber heard that people were flocking to the Baal Shem Tov and many were healed from His great prayers, though he was an incredible scholar in all of Torah, He decided to go see for Himself and test Him.

As He arrived, the Baal Shem Tov told him what appeared to be simple (though very deep) fables. He then decided to leave.

As it was late he told his driver / attendant that they would go as the moon’s light rose – in the meantime the Baal Shem Tov sent his attendant at midnight to call the Maagid. 

When the Maagid came, the Baal Shem Tov said, “You are knowledgeable in Torah, correct?” 

“Yes” the Maggid replied. 
“And you also are knowledge in Kabbalah?

And he said “Yes.”

The Baal Shem Tov asked his attendant to get the Eitz Chayim (a Kabbalistic book), and he then asked the Maggid to explain a piece. 

So the Maggid explained it.

The Baal Shem Tov told him, “You don’t understand.” 

He looked at it again and said “My explanation is correct;

If the Master has another explanation, please tell me.” 

The Baal Shem Tov told him to stand. 

And then the Baal Shem Tov read it. 

Now in this teaching it mentioned names of Angels, and as he read it the house filled with a bright light and a fire sounded it and they saw the Angels it referred to. 

The Baal Shem Tov said, “It’s true that what you said was correct but your study lacked Soul.” Immediately the Maggid sent his attendant home and He stayed by the Baal Shem Tov and studied deep and great wisdom.   

{This teaches us that our study of Torah must be infused with passion.}

8 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro)

•  Torah – Lishma
    

The Baal Shem Tov quoted that the Ramban told his son that a sign that you are studying Torah “Lishmah” is when you feel great awe and love for G-d during your study! 

126 Kesser Shem Tov

• Rashi – Essence

The Baal Shem Tov said, “The simple Rashi is in the realm of Atzilus.”

The Baal Shem Tov says, that when Rashi says “The Pshutoi (simple meaning) of the verse” this means if you will (remove) tafshit yourself from physicality, and refine your spiritual sensitivity, you will see the inner essence of the verse.

Note 25 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Rebbe

One who studies Torah from a Tzaddik, though he may be learning the outer side of Torah (Nigleh) its inner light (Chassidus) penetrates.

But this is not the case if one is studying from the wicked.

{Always study exclusively from one who also studies Chassidus – Kabbalah.}

Note 48 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Rebbe
  
  

The verse says, “New and old, my beloved prepared for me…” 

Said the Baal Shem Tov, “New and old insights (of Divine wisdom) G-d prepared for me.” 

But his disciples queried, “You teach us?”

(So it seems, it’s not for “you,” but for the disciples.)

He gave them an example of a barrel that others can drink from because its overflowing.         
               

19 Shir Hashirim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Refining
  
  

A Torah teaching – especially Halacha (Jewish law) banishes bad (character traits).
  

379 Kesser Shem Tov

•  Torah – Seek G-d
  
  

A great principle in serving Hashem is to constantly be connected to G-d in your mind, with a great love and desire for The Infinite Light of G-d which is found within the letters of the Torah and Prayer which you are praying or studying (this also is a great way to get rid of negative decrees.)

27 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Your Soul Mission
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov says, every Jew’s soul comes into this world with a mission to spread the light of Torah.

Wherever one finds themselves, both in their vicinity or elsewhere, one’s mission is to spread the light of Torah and reverence of G-d – and bolster the Torah institutions.

{The Previous Rebbe mentions that strengthening Torah education – giving children a Torah education, is what saves them from the darkness and disgustingness of societal denigration.}  

210 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Torah – Stories = Lessons

Once there was a king who sent his son to a distant land so that upon his return his appreciation of the palace life should be that much greater…

However he became accustomed to the pleasures of that land, and forgot about his home.

The King sent important ministers to have him return, but the son wasn’t interested… 

So he sent many other delegations, but no one could change his mind. 

Eventually one wise person dressed up as a native, and became his friend, and convinced him. 

This is a parable the Baal Shem Tov gives to explain the stories of the Torah.

{In other words, the soul is sent into our world so it can learn to have an ever greater appreciation of G-d – as the Alter Rebbe writes, “The true reason for existence is the Baal Teshuvah” (one who chooses G-d from their free-will) but the soul can forget her Father becoming accustomed to the world… hence the Torah and Tzaddikim clothe themselves into our language, so we can be reminded.}
  

144 Kesser Shem Tov

• Torah – Teach!
  
  

One must teach every Jew, even those distant from Judaism for they are a fellow Jew whom we must love. Every Jew’s soul has come to earth in order to transform it as a container / vehicle for G-d.

141 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Torah Teacher
  
  

Whenever you study, and you mention the name of the Rabbi whose teaching you are studying, you should have him in mind by visualizing as if he is there, and then the energy from these Holy Letters will permeate you.

If you speak about the Halacha (law) said by the Rabbi then you draw into yourself from the Holy level of Binah (intellect.)

Furthermore when you study the Torah of a Rabbi, their lips repeat the words you say in their grave, and additionally you bring redemption to the “world!”
 

The world is the body, and redemption is the Torah.  

30 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah – Happy and Duty Times
  
  

There is expansiveness and contraction in the three primary realms of space, time, and soul. (Times when we are secure and open, and time when we are insecure and fearful.)

This is why before teaching one should tell a joke, for this opens the heart of the recipient.  

When it is an expansive time in the world we can learn Torah and pray with great love and awe of G-d, but when it is a fearful (contracted time) we must do Torah and Mitzvos out of obligation (as we are not “feeling the joy”).

366 Kesser Shem Tov

• Torah – Teach
  
  

The Baal Shem Tov has a beautiful explanation of the verse  “Vishanantom…” (said in Shema.)

Vishnantom – You Shall Teach

Livanech – To those looking for wisdom

Vidibarta Bom – You should cause them to feel it.

Due to this will occur:

Bishvticha Biveisecha – Your personal soul will be elevated.

Uvilechticha Vaderech – Their soul and the spirit of the world will be elevated.

Bishochbicha – And this will give you a great reward in Heaven.

Uvkumecha – as well as when you rise in Techiyas Hameisim!

39 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

•  Torah – The Path Of Light
  
  

“You shall tell them the path to go on…”

The Baal Shem Tov gives an example of a den of thieves that lurked in a forest. They would always send out one scout to lure unsuspecting people to take the path into the forest, where they would then kill and rob the person.

 
The Torah teaches us the way to safety – not the path of our Yetzer Hara.  

{Fortunate O’ Fortunate is the person who studies and follows the Torah, and not the inane ideologies that always have and always will lead people to misery☹}

4 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah For Truth
  
  

When the study of Torah is for the sake of arriving at truth – then G-d is there!  

2 Balak– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Don’t Procrastinate

“All Torah that one performs without work… in the end it will dissipate.”

This means that if we have a chance to study and do a Mitzvah, and we neglect to do so, the opportunity will disappear.
  

64 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah & Mitzvos – Intent
  
  

A person who serves G-d altruistically, all of his Torah become Holy. But if one serves G-d selfishly (for ulterior motives, such as recognition or simply self-benefit) then all their Torah and Mitzvos are trapped in Kelipah.

And they need to descend (be reincarnated) in order to study (or perform the Mitzvos) again with proper intent – only then they will they elevate it.
  

Note 9 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

•  Torah + Work

Our Sages teach that “all Torah that isn’t accompanied by work causes sin.”  

As when we pray and study Torah we need to use our mind.

(Ironically, though this inspires us, part of the inspiration and the use of our mind, adds to our ego.) And then when we are not actively engaged in mental pursuits, our ego can take over (hence we can descend into lashon hara, anger, arguments) therefore one should engage in work.
    

378 Kesser Shem Tov

• Torah = Divine Wisdom
  
  

A person who studies Torah must always bear in mind that the Torah is Divine wisdom.
  

12 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Torah For Growth (Minagdim)

The Talmud states that one who learns Torah and is meritorious, it becomes “a potion of life,” but if the reverse… death.

  
The Gemara explains that this refers to a person who studies with faith.  

Asks the Baal Shem Tov, “what is the connection between faith and knowledge?  

To the contrary, faith refers to what you cannot understand, while Torah study is what you must understand!”

In Gemara Shabbos, Rava explains that “those who believe” means those who strive, and through their toil they come to proper conclusions.  

Whoever studies Torah must be cognizant that in every concept is a deep secret.  

Hence, one must work very hard to discover this hidden wisdom.  

When one learns in such a manner, the learning creates a refinement and merit to the studier.  

This is the explanation of “merit,” which in Hebrew is “zocheh,” which also means refined.

So if Torah refines the person, then it is a merit.  

However if G-d-forbid the reverse happens, namely the Torah contributes to arrogance, ego, and hence evil, then it is pure poison.
 

99 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• Torah and Mitzvos with Diveikus
  
  

When one is studying and doing the Mitzvos one must attach oneself to the Essence of Torah and Mitzvos, which means to their source (namely G-d)… for if not, one creates a separation.  

1 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• New Release…
   

Every day Torah should seem as if it is “Just Released” / New (fresh.)
  

66 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

• During Torah Study Recall G-d
  
  

When you study you must remind yourself in front of whom you are studying (namely G-d).  Sometimes when you are studying (as you are engaging your mind) you can be distant from G-d, hence every hour and moment you need to remind yourself about G-d.   

54 Tzavaas Harivash

• Study Chassidus / Halacha
  
  

The Yetzer Hara knows it cannot tell you not to study – for then you will think that you will appear worthless in another’s eyes… 
 
Rather he tells you not to study things that matter, things that will cause you to fear G-d, and the Jewish laws (Halacha).
    

164 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Teshuvah

• Teshuvah – Tears

“So says G-d, ‘Take heed, call out, and may your eyes run with tears.’”

It says in Tikkunim, “There is a chamber of music in Heaven, and the key to opening it is only through music; there is a chamber of tears, and the key to opening it is only through tears.”

A prayer with tears is precious to G-d.

…And as a community, we shall learn from those who created the golden calf – the generation of the desert.

Aaron, in order to get the people to return to G-d, bound his hands with iron chains and walked around the Jewish encampment. He went through it and cried until they all did Teshuvah, and they cried with him, as it states in the Medrash.

Similarly, we cry to return from our sins.        

26 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – Pray For Your Soul

In Kesser Shem Tov it teaches from the Baal Shem Tov– there are seven levels in the Shechinah:

1. That one knows that their level (of spirituality / goodness) has fallen – but prays not to rectify it.

2. That one knows, and one prays.

3. That one knows not, and in fact considers oneself the greatest… this is the feminine side of Kelipah.  

An example of this was a poor woman who got one little egg – but oh’ she rejoiced! For from this egg she envisioned how she would put it under her friend’s hen, and it would hatch, and this new chicken would then lay many eggs, and she would then have many chickens! And then she would sell them and get some cows… and as she is reveling in her dream, the egg fell – and now she didn’t even have an egg. 

Likewise is the person who knows not they have fallen, hence can’t pray for their elevation.

Note 1 Behar– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Downs are for Ups
  
  

A Holy Person should realize that if an external force causes one to need to stop studying Torah, or Praying, this too is for the sake of a deeper (Teshuvah / re-attachment) bond. 
  

135 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Rectifying The World
  
  

The main Teshuvah is to repent from one’s evil ways.

A person should also never think that they are great because they are fasting (for repentance.)

Even a single person who does Teshuvah, the entire world’s sins are forgiven.  

43 Tzavaas Harivash

• Teshuvah – For Past Lives
    

A person contains sins from previous incarnations, but when they pray for all sinners, then this rectifies their own.
  

5 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – Rebound

G-d is everywhere, even in the sin, and the force of desire that makes us want to sin. 

It’s just that the Kelipah (negative side) is concealing the good / G-d part, but when one does Teshuvah they return their desire back to G-d; and then the actual sin turns into a Mitzvah (as it states in Tanya, the reason for this is, that its regret causes the desired relationship and deeper bond with G-d.)

7 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah = Growth

The Baal Shem Tov teaches that Teshuvah (repentance) is: “A person who told lies should stop, and an argumentative person should act peacefully.” In fact to do the opposite of the previous behavior.

(And this simple principle of ceasing the negative behavior, which is a perfect repentance, applies to everything.)

40 Kesser Shem Tov

• Teshuvah – Repulsed By Past

To do a proper Teshuvah, a person must despise – to feel disgusted – with what was previously pleasurable (desirable) to them.  

{A good way to do this is as the Alter Rebbe teaches in Tanya from the advice of our Sages for someone who wishes to turn away from lust or food addiction or addiction to material objects, to perceive the object or desire as excrement.}

36 Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – Free From Yetzer Hara = Redemption

When we free ourselves from our Yetzer Hara, this is leaving Egypt to Redemption, and this applies in every generation.

Note 1 Bishlach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – Rebound Light

There are two types of people: one who walks in total darkness without seeing the greatness of G-d, the other who knows what is right, but occasionally falls…

When the latter strengthens his Yetzer Tov / good, over his Yetzer Hara / bad, the light that emanates from him is doubled!  

13 Shoftim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – G-d’s Infinitely Greater

When a person knows not that G-d is hidden (infinitely higher than him, and thinks that He and G-d “frolic” / are buddies) then he is not likely to repent.  

4 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – G-d

When Adam first sinned, G-d brought him another sin, so he could withstand it, and then repent and be forgiven for the first.

However, the Satan worked hard on cajoling him, and he sinned a second time though G-d was on his side (to forgive.) Then this happened a third time. 

After the third time, he had put his nefesh, ruach, neshama (manifest soul – not the essence soul which is unconditionally pure) into the dark side.  Then as one sin leads to the next… the path of Teshuvah is difficult.

A person needs to then comprehend the fact that they are sinning, as one’s heart has grown fat (haughty) and all they do seems fitting to themselves.

And then G-d’s compassion is aroused and helps them to do Teshuvah.

25 Ki Sisah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Teshuvah – Nitzoitzois

It is well-known, in everything, even wood and stones, there are holy sparks of Divinity.  Even in a sin.

What is the spark there? 

The spark is the Teshuvah (repentance).

When one does repentance, one elevates these sparks back to G-d.
  

167 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Teshuvah / Humility (Inspiration)  

A person knows what’s cooking in their head throughout the whole year… the thoughts the body produces during Torah and prayer…
 
“If only I was a copper vessel, and I could purify and cleanse myself…. But instead, I am like a clay pot that must be “broken” when impure.” 

We must have a humble broken-heart, for such a heart G-d does not banish.  

Rosh Hashanah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Repulsed By Past Desire
  
  

Although it states that “A person should say ‘I could technically enjoy this pork but G-d has commanded me not to eat it…!’”  However one who actually has sinned must feel disgusted by the sin, and this way transform the sin into a merit (Mitzvah). They should reach the point that their disgust eliminates any desire.

398 Kesser Shem Tov

Yetzer Hara

• Guilt
  
  

Sometimes the Yetzer Hara tricks a person by telling them that they transgressed a great sin, although it was actually just an “extra” (hiddur) that they missed, or wasn’t actually an Aveira / sin at all.
 

Its intent is to make the person feel guilt (shame) and sadness (depression) and therefore lack the energy to serve G-d.
 

One must clearly understand the Yetzer Hara’s “shenanigans,” and say to the Yetzer Hara, “I don’t care about this ‘Chumrah’ (‘extra…’) for your intention is only to get me to stop serving G-d!  

And what you’re saying is a lie! Even if I slightly sinned – as your intention is that through sadness I will stop serving G-d in general – it would actually be a far greater pleasure to G-d that I shouldn’t worry about it at all.  

In fact, I will serve G-d joyfully!

For it is a great principle that it is not my pleasure I seek in His service, but rather to give Him pleasure.

Hence although I will not care about this ‘Chumrah’ (‘extra,’) G-d will not mind.

As the reason I am not caring about it is to serve Him; and how can I not serve Him, even for but a moment!”

This is a great principle in serving G-d:
Try to prevent any sadness.

{Don’t get paralyzed by guilt.
Don’t be sad – Be Joyous!}  

44 Tzavaas Harivash

• Yetzer Hara = Liar

The Yetzer Hara pretends he’s the Yetzer Tov (which is a problem, for if you consider the wrong you do as right, how will you change or repent?!)

78 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara Con
  
  

The Yetzer Hara cannot get man to sin… (namely take him away from His Divine service) by telling him to sin, for the person would ignore such foolishness, as such the Yetzer Hara clothes itself in a Mitzvah (which is in the wrong time / place.)

{In other words, one must be very vigilant to understand what to do when.

There is a story of Rabbi Mottele Chernoybler who received the whopping sum of 300 ruble as a donation from a Chossid. Then a man came to him requesting a blessing to marry off his daughter. Upon enquiring, it turned out that he needed 300 ruble. Reb Mottele asked him to come back in five minutes and then gave him all 300! He explained, that first he thought to bestow all 300 to this person; but then he had another thought, “maybe it would be better to distribute the 300 in six parts, to six different people?!” As such he needed to clarify which thought came from the Yetzer Tov and which from the Yetzer Hara. He then realized that had the second thought been genuine, he would have had it before not after the first thought.}
   

1-2 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Yetzer Hara – Ploy For Growth
  
  

A parable: Once there was a great king and he sent his trusted servant to go and foment a rebellion in some countries. Some countries went on a full-scale war against the servant, while others accepted their “new ruler.”
 

But there was one country that was comprised of exceptionally wise people, and they realized that this messenger “fomenting rebellion” was in fact an agent of the king!

Similarly, some people fight the Yetzer Hara and beat him through personal deprivation (fasting etc. as was common back then.)

But the wiser person realizes the Yetzer Hara is actually an agent of the king! (And the Baal Shem Tov continues with some Kabbalistic ideas on how the Yetzer Hara transforms.)

{Recognize that your Yetzer Hara is only in truth here to help you, as the Rebbe teaches – the challenges of the Yetzer Hara cause us to rise higher.}

116 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara – A Challenge To Greatness
  
  

The only purpose we are on earth is to subdue the physical desires and negative passions, allowing our soul to sing her song!  

The Yetzer Hara is like an example of testing a child in his studies,  so the confusing questions that are asked are only there so the child can defeat these doubts and firmly focus!  And when we overcome the Yetzer Hara, this gives G-d an incredible joy!
   

372 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara – Contemplation to Win
  
  

A person must gather all his energies and abilities to do the will of G-d, for example to do a Mitzvah or to not transgress a sin. 

When a person does this, then the Yetzer Hara cannot beat him – for as he is willing to give his life for G-d,  as nothing is more precious than life! you can beat the Yetzer Hara.
  

Note 15 Ki Teitze– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Yetzer Hara – Trick To Win and Be Humble
  
  

The Yetzer Hara tells a person “Who are you…?” Causing them to doubt what effect they can and even should have.      
A person must say to themselves, “The entire world was created solely for my ability to make it better!”

   
However once one does the actual service, one must return to a state of infinite humility, for it is G-d alone that has empowered them!
    

393 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara – Beat
  
  

“And they saw the G-d of Israel” – meaning they understood that “and under his feet…” which means what can one do to become “G-d’s feet…”  namely a Merkavah / servant of G-d?

This is through “Like the sapphire;” that the person refines himself like the beauty of the sapphire, and therefore serves G-d with their soul and body together. Also “the hammer that tries to smash the sapphire will break apart.”

This refers to beating the Yetzer Hara.
 
In other words, if you can get rid of the Yetzer Hara – through this you will be like the essence of Heaven and will be pure!  as it states, “And the righteous will shine like the radiance of the sky.”  

21 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

• Yetzer Hara – Beware!!

Once upon a time there lived a man in a beautiful home, but a conman desiring his home told him “I will give you a billion dollars to own just a single hook.”  So they made the sale, and every hour the man would come into the house to hang something on “his” hook – this caused the first owner to eventually have to give up his home.

If you let the Yetzer Hara control any of your limbs… (especially sexual) it will take full control!

{Do not succumb to any desire.}

145 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

•  Yetzer Hara – Contrast
  
  

Reb Meir would deduce: “If people could have such strong passion for foolish bodily pleasure, how much more so must I have for the infinitely great G-dly pleasure!”

160 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Yetzer Hara – Con the Conman!
  
  

There is no possibility of doing only good – for it is only when the Yetzer Hara sees some possible (ego) gain from your action, does he permit it.  

However one must steal the Yetzer Hara’s knowledge (con him). 

In other words, you must pretend to do things for your personal (ego) gain.  

When one embarks on a new Mitzvah or Torah study schedule, one can begin using selfish motives but then transform it into selfless.

When you wish to get up for Tikkun Chatzois (or early to start your day) first do something for the body (so the body will want to wake up!) and then do the Mitzvah.

{The lesson here is great indeed for if we “con the conman” – for example we say “I am doing this extra good, Mitzvah, Torah etc. for my own pleasure or ego” then the Yetzer Hara won’t fight.}

141 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara – Destroyer

In the past, the Yetzer Hara was only into preventing a person from receiving the bliss of the world to come.  Now he’s slyer and attempts to destroy a person both in this world and the next – for example, causing a person to be consumed with (financial) worries day and night so his life is a mess, as well as not having the energy to focus on Torah and Mitzvos ☹.

{A person can use whatever circumstance they are in to propel them even higher in serving G-d.}
  

144 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Yetzer Hara’s End

Why will the Yetzer Hara be slaughtered in the future?

 
Was his job not to entice man?

True, but not to pretend that he is pious!
  

147 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Yetzer Hara – Learn from It!

From the Yetzer Hara we learn how to beat it – just look at how well it serves its Divine mission!
 

135 Kesser Shem Tov

• Yetzer Hara – Use For Good
  
  

“Who is wise – whoever learns from everyone?”  Even from the Yetzer Hara!

If one does this, the Yetzer Hara becomes a Yetzer Tov! 

This is the meaning of “Who is strong? Whoever conquers his Yetzer….”  Not kills, but conquers under his power, to serve G-d.

161 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

• Yetzer Hara – Masquerades
  
  

When the Yetzer Hara attacks a scholar, he does so using “holy” distractions. But to average people he uses mundane distractions.

114 Kesser Shem Tov

145 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

21 Kedoishim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

132 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

38 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

32 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

144 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

209 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

142 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

159 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

359 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

147 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

143 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 363 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

140 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

75 Kesser Shem Tov

 9 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

11 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

430 Kesser Shem Tov

15 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

46 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

64 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

22 Ki Sisa – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

65 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Intro. Kesser Shem Tov

24 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

27 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

6 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

119 Kesser Shem Tov

404 Kesser Shem Tov

112 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

146 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

121 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

124 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

4 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

4 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

7 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 15 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

105 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

13 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

37 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)                

263 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 152 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

294 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

10 Boi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Tzavaas Harivash

17 Tzavaas Harivash

 2 + Note 5 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 5 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

317 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

363 Kesser Shem Tov

Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

15 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

22 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

264 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

136 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

71 Kesser Shem Tov

404 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

38 Kesser Shem Tov

41 Kesser Shem Tov

87 Kesser Shem Tov

98 Kesser Shem Tov

164 Kesser Shem Tov

207 Kesser Shem Tov

299 Kesser Shem Tov

 368 Kesser Shem Tov

9 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

10 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

25 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

141 -142 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah                                

Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

28 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 8 Mishpatim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 14 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

7 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Vayielech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

45 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

131 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

367 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

368 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

374 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

371 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

279 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

355 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

83 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

385 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

67 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Kesser Shem Tov (Beginning)

336 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

Note 160 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

57 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Note 8 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

381 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

7 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

219 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

353 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

95 Tzavaas Harivash

Note 92 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

16 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Note 118 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

206 Kesser Shem Tov

8 Bahaloischa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

135 Kesser Shem Tov

63 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

59 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

76 Tzavaas Harivash

80 Tzavaas Harivash

81 Tzavaas Harivash

57 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

60 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

111 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

208 Kesser Shem Tov

56 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 Note 54 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

282 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

25 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

41 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

34 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Bechukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

145 Kesser Shem Tov

84 Tzavaas Harivash

42 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

3 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

208 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

4 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

7 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

70 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

1 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 (Divrei Chayim) Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

289 Kesser Shem Tov

167 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

67 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

51 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

384 Kesser Shem Tov

 5 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

Note 32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

5 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

18 Ki Sisah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

110 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

289 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

406 Kesser Shem Tov

31 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

252 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 4 Emor– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

18 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 51 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

85 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

219 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Introduction – Kesser Shem Tov

15 Tzavaas Harivash

46 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Megilas Eicha 1 Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

204 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

8 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

20 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 328 – Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

4 Tzaavas Harivash

34 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro)

51 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

40 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

39 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

37 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

29 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

382 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

167 Kesser Shem Tov

80 Kesser Shem Tov

4 Tzaavas Harivash

24 Tzaavas Harivash

220B Kesser Shem Tov

24 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

156 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

5 Vayikra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Tzavaas Harivash

Note 11 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

15 + Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Tzavaas Harivash

21 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

170 Kessser Shem Tov

209 Kesser Shem Tov

233 Kesser Shem Tov

243 Kesser Shem Tov

269 Kesser Shem Tov

52 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

122 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

213 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

366 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 43 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

13 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

22 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

3 Ve-eschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

13 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

14 Nitzvavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Tzavaas Harivash

411 Kesser Shem Tov

65 Tzavaas Harivash

Note 33 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

57 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

74 Kesser Shem Tov

92 Tzavaas Harivash

11 Tzavaas Harivash

31 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Va-Yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

3 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

58 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

55 Tzavaas Harivash

12 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 158- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

149 Kesser Shem Tov

393 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Chukas– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

49 Tzavaas Harivash

3 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

55 Kesser Shem Tov

58 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

58 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

230 Kesser Shem Tov

10 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

318 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

161 Kesser Shem Tov

Note 1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

6 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

28 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

34 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

214 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

123 Kesser Shem Tov

316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

68-71 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

73 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

74 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

239 Kesser Shem Tov

375 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

64 Tzavaas Harivash

89 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

153 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

164 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

2 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov On The Torah

1-2 Va-aira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

7-9 + Note 6 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

55 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

6 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

40 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

173 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

393 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)


145 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

21 Kedoishim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

132 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

38 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

32 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

144 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

209 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

142 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

159 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

359 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

147 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

143 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 363 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

140 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

75 Kesser Shem Tov

 9 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

11 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

430 Kesser Shem Tov

15 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

46 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

64 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

22 Ki Sisa – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

65 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Intro. Kesser Shem Tov

24 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

27 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

6 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

119 Kesser Shem Tov

404 Kesser Shem Tov

112 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

146 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

121 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

124 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

4 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

4 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

7 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 15 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

105 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

13 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

37 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)                

263 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 152 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

294 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

10 Boi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Tzavaas Harivash

17 Tzavaas Harivash

 2 + Note 5 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 5 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

317 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

363 Kesser Shem Tov

Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

15 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

22 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

264 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

136 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

71 Kesser Shem Tov

404 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

38 Kesser Shem Tov

41 Kesser Shem Tov

87 Kesser Shem Tov

98 Kesser Shem Tov

164 Kesser Shem Tov

207 Kesser Shem Tov

299 Kesser Shem Tov

 368 Kesser Shem Tov

9 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

10 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

25 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

141 -142 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah                                

Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

28 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 8 Mishpatim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 14 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

7 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Vayielech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

45 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

131 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

367 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

368 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

374 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

371 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

279 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

355 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

83 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

385 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

67 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Kesser Shem Tov (Beginning)

336 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

Note 160 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

57 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Note 8 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

381 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

7 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

219 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

353 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

95 Tzavaas Harivash

Note 92 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

16 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Note 118 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

206 Kesser Shem Tov

8 Bahaloischa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

135 Kesser Shem Tov

63 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

59 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

76 Tzavaas Harivash

80 Tzavaas Harivash

81 Tzavaas Harivash

57 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

60 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

111 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

208 Kesser Shem Tov

56 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 Note 54 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

282 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

25 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

41 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

34 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Bechukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

145 Kesser Shem Tov

84 Tzavaas Harivash

42 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

3 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

208 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

4 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

7 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

70 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

1 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 (Divrei Chayim) Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

289 Kesser Shem Tov

167 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

67 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

51 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

384 Kesser Shem Tov

 5 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

Note 32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

5 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

18 Ki Sisah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

110 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

289 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

406 Kesser Shem Tov

31 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

252 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 4 Emor– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

18 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 51 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

85 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

219 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Introduction – Kesser Shem Tov

15 Tzavaas Harivash

46 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Megilas Eicha 1 Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

204 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

8 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

20 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 328 – Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

4 Tzaavas Harivash

34 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro)

51 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

40 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

39 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

37 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

29 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

382 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

167 Kesser Shem Tov

80 Kesser Shem Tov

4 Tzaavas Harivash

24 Tzaavas Harivash

220B Kesser Shem Tov

24 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

156 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

5 Vayikra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Tzavaas Harivash

Note 11 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

15 + Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Tzavaas Harivash

21 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

170 Kessser Shem Tov

209 Kesser Shem Tov

233 Kesser Shem Tov

243 Kesser Shem Tov

269 Kesser Shem Tov

52 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

122 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

213 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

366 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 43 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

13 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

22 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

3 Ve-eschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

13 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

14 Nitzvavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Tzavaas Harivash

411 Kesser Shem Tov

65 Tzavaas Harivash

Note 33 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

57 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

74 Kesser Shem Tov

92 Tzavaas Harivash

11 Tzavaas Harivash

31 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Va-Yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

3 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

58 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

55 Tzavaas Harivash

12 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 158- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

149 Kesser Shem Tov

393 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Chukas– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

49 Tzavaas Harivash

3 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

55 Kesser Shem Tov

58 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

58 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

230 Kesser Shem Tov

10 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

318 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

161 Kesser Shem Tov

Note 1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

6 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

28 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

34 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

214 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

123 Kesser Shem Tov

316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

68-71 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

73 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

74 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

239 Kesser Shem Tov

375 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

64 Tzavaas Harivash

89 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

153 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

164 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

2 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov On The Torah

1-2 Va-aira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

7-9 + Note 6 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

55 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

6 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

40 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

173 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

393 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)


145 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

21 Kedoishim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

132 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

38 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

32 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

144 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

209 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

142 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

159 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

359 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

147 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

143 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 363 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

140 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

75 Kesser Shem Tov

 9 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

11 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

430 Kesser Shem Tov

15 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

46 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

1 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

64 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

22 Ki Sisa – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

65 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Intro. Kesser Shem Tov

24 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

27 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

6 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

119 Kesser Shem Tov

404 Kesser Shem Tov

112 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

146 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

121 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

124 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

4 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

4 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

7 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 15 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

105 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

13 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

37 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)                

263 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 152 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

294 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

10 Boi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Tzavaas Harivash

17 Tzavaas Harivash

 2 + Note 5 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 5 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

317 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

363 Kesser Shem Tov

Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

15 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

22 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

264 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

136 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

71 Kesser Shem Tov

404 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

38 Kesser Shem Tov

41 Kesser Shem Tov

87 Kesser Shem Tov

98 Kesser Shem Tov

164 Kesser Shem Tov

207 Kesser Shem Tov

299 Kesser Shem Tov

 368 Kesser Shem Tov

9 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

10 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

25 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

141 -142 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah                                

Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

28 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 8 Mishpatim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 14 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

7 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Vayielech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

45 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

131 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

367 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

368 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

374 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

371 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

279 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

355 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

83 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

385 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

67 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Kesser Shem Tov (Beginning)

336 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

Note 160 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

57 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Note 8 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

381 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

7 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

219 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

353 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

95 Tzavaas Harivash

Note 92 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

16 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Note 118 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

206 Kesser Shem Tov

8 Bahaloischa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

135 Kesser Shem Tov

63 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

59 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

76 Tzavaas Harivash

80 Tzavaas Harivash

81 Tzavaas Harivash

57 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

60 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

111 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

208 Kesser Shem Tov

56 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 Note 54 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

282 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

25 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

41 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

34 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Bechukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

145 Kesser Shem Tov

84 Tzavaas Harivash

42 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

3 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

208 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

4 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

7 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

70 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

1 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 (Divrei Chayim) Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
 

289 Kesser Shem Tov

167 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
 

67 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

51 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

384 Kesser Shem Tov

 5 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)

Note 32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

5 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

18 Ki Sisah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

110 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

289 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

406 Kesser Shem Tov

31 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

252 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

 4 Emor– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

18 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

 51 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

85 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

219 Kesser Shem Tov

11 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Introduction – Kesser Shem Tov

15 Tzavaas Harivash

46 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
 

Megilas Eicha 1 Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

204 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

8 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

20 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 328 – Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

4 Tzaavas Harivash

34 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro)

51 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

40 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

39 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

37 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)

29 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

382 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

167 Kesser Shem Tov

80 Kesser Shem Tov

4 Tzaavas Harivash

24 Tzaavas Harivash

220B Kesser Shem Tov

24 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

156 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

5 Vayikra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Tzavaas Harivash

Note 11 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

15 + Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Tzavaas Harivash

21 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

10 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

170 Kessser Shem Tov

209 Kesser Shem Tov

233 Kesser Shem Tov

243 Kesser Shem Tov

269 Kesser Shem Tov

52 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

122 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

213 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

366 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Note 43 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

2 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Note 2 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

8 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

11 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

13 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

22 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

3 Ve-eschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

13 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

14 Nitzvavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Tzavaas Harivash

411 Kesser Shem Tov

65 Tzavaas Harivash

Note 33 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

57 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

12 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

74 Kesser Shem Tov

92 Tzavaas Harivash

11 Tzavaas Harivash

31 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Va-Yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

3 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

58 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

55 Tzavaas Harivash

12 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

Note 158- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

149 Kesser Shem Tov

393 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Chukas– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

49 Tzavaas Harivash

3 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

55 Kesser Shem Tov

58 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

17 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

58 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

230 Kesser Shem Tov

10 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

318 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

161 Kesser Shem Tov

Note 1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

6 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

28 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

34 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

214 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

123 Kesser Shem Tov

316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

68-71 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

73 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

74 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

239 Kesser Shem Tov

375 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

64 Tzavaas Harivash

89 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

153 Kesser Shem Tov

1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

164 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

2 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov On The Torah

1-2 Va-aira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

53 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

7-9 + Note 6 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

55 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah

223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

6 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah

40 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

173 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

393 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)

Many Thanks To Our Generous Sponsors

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Dedicated by Menachem Yaakov Ben Sara

Dedicated by Moshe Ben Sara

Dedicated to Zaidy

Rabbi Shlomoh Shneur Zalman ben Michoel Kazen

As one of his congregants wrote (may not be exact quote) “The Baal Shem Tov lived in our town (Cleveland). Whenever a new immigrant came to the city, Rabbi Kazen personally went to welcome them at the airport, help them settle, get a job, welcome them to his Synagogue, and then spiritually and physically care for them, their children, and grandchildren.”

My memories of Zaidy who B’hashgachah Pratis His birthday Gimmel Cheshvan was the completion day of this book, is that to the best of my knowledge (besides Rebbes) is the Jew who embodied “living the Baal Shem Tov!”  His personality was consistently loving, strong, religious.

I once met him after he came off a flight from Cleveland to New York and unfortunately his legs gave him much trouble but I heard him saying to Himself, “Thank You Hashem; Thank You Hashem! as the pain wasn’t so bad!”

Zaidy dedicated his life to the ideals of Chassidus, to loving and helping his family and fellow Jews!

Rabbi Kazen Teaching Torah

1. 145 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
2. 21 Kedoishim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
3. 132 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
4. 38 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
5. 32 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
6. 144 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
7. 209 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
8. 142 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
9. 159 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
10. 359 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
11. 147 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
12. 143 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
13.  363 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
14. 140 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
15. 75 Kesser Shem Tov
16.  9 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
17. 11 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
18. 12 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
19. 430 Kesser Shem Tov
20. 15 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
21. 8 Re-eh – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
22. 46 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
23. 1 Terumah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
24. 64 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
25. 22 Ki Sisa – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
26. 65 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
27. Intro. Kesser Shem Tov
28. 24 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
29. Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
30. 27 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
31. Note 2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
32. 6 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
33. 119 Kesser Shem Tov
34. 404 Kesser Shem Tov
35. 112 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
36. 146 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
37. 121 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
38. 124 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
39. 4 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
40. 2 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
41. 4 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
42. 7 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
43.  15 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
44. 105 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
45. 13 Re-eh– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
46. 37 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)                
47. 263 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
48. Note 152 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
49. 294 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
50. 10 Boi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
51. 17 Tzavaas Harivash
52. 17 Tzavaas Harivash
53.  2 + Note 5 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
54. Note 5 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
55. 317 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
56. Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
57. 363 Kesser Shem Tov
58. Note 153 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
59. 15 Ki Sisa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
60. 22 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
61. 264 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
62. 136 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
63. 71 Kesser Shem Tov
64. 404 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
65. Note 17 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
66. 38 Kesser Shem Tov
67. 41 Kesser Shem Tov
68. 87 Kesser Shem Tov
69. 98 Kesser Shem Tov
70. 164 Kesser Shem Tov
71. 207 Kesser Shem Tov
72. 299 Kesser Shem Tov
73.  368 Kesser Shem Tov
74. 9 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)
75. 10 Kesser Shem Tov
76. 11 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)
77. 25 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
78. 141 -142 Bereishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah                                
79. Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
80. 28 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
81. 8 Vayeishev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
82. Note 8 Mishpatim – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
83. Note 14 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
84. 7 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
85. 10 Vayielech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
86. 11 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
87. 12 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
88. 45 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
89. Note 155 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
90. 131 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
91. 367 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
92. 368 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
93. 374 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
94. 316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
95. 371 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
96. 279 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
97. 355 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
98. 83 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
99. 385 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
100. 67 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
      
101. Kesser Shem Tov (Beginning)
102. 336 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
      
103. Note 160 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
104. 57 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
      
105. Note 8 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
106. 381 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
107. 7 Acharei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
108. 219 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
109. 353 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
110. 95 Tzavaas Harivash
111. Note 92 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
112. 16 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
      
113. Note 118 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
114. 206 Kesser Shem Tov
115. 8 Bahaloischa– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
116. 135 Kesser Shem Tov
117. 63 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
118. 59 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
119. 76 Tzavaas Harivash
120. 80 Tzavaas Harivash
121. 81 Tzavaas Harivash
122. 57 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
123. 60 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
     
     
     
124. 111 Kesser Shem Tov
125. 11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
126. 208 Kesser Shem Tov
127. 56 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
     
     
128.  Note 54 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
129. 282 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
130. 25 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
131. 53 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
132. 41 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
133. 34 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
134. Note 1 Nasoi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
135. 2 Bechukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
136. 145 Kesser Shem Tov
137. 84 Tzavaas Harivash
138. 42 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
139. 3 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
      
140. 208 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
141. 4 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
      
142. 7 Bichukoisay– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
143. 70 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
144. Note 1 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
      
145. 1 Shemini– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
146. Note 2 (Divrei Chayim) Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
      
147. 289 Kesser Shem Tov
148. 167 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
      
149. 67 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
150. 51 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
151. 384 Kesser Shem Tov
     
     
152.  5 Kesser Shem Tov (From Rebbes)
153. Note 32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
154. 5 Vayeilech– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
155. 18 Ki Sisah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
156. 11 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
157. 110 Breishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
158. 289 Kesser Shem Tov
159. 11 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
160. 406 Kesser Shem Tov
161. 31 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
162. 252 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
     
     
163.  4 Emor– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
164. 18 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
     
     
165.  51 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
166. 85 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
167. 219 Kesser Shem Tov
168. 11 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
169. Introduction – Kesser Shem Tov
170. 15 Tzavaas Harivash
171. 46 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
      
172. Megilas Eicha 1 Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
173. 204 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
174. 8 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
175. 20 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
176. Note 328 – Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
177. 4 Tzaavas Harivash
178. 34 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro)
179. 51 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
180. 40 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)
181. 39 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
182. 37 Baal Shem Tov On The Torah (Intro.)
183. 29 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
184. 382 Kesser Shem Tov
185. 1 Vayeitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
186. 12 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
187. 167 Kesser Shem Tov
188. 80 Kesser Shem Tov
189. 4 Tzaavas Harivash
190. 24 Tzaavas Harivash
191. 220B Kesser Shem Tov
192. 24 Ki Teitzei– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
193. 156 Bereishis- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
194. Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
195. 5 Vayikra– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
196. 10 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
197. Note 1 Shemois– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
198. Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
199. Note 13 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
200. Tzavaas Harivash
201. Note 11 Mishpatim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
202. 15 + Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
203. Note 13 Bishalach– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
     
     
204. 53 Tzavaas Harivash
205. 21 Eikev– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
206. 10 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
207. 170 Kessser Shem Tov
208. 209 Kesser Shem Tov
209. 233 Kesser Shem Tov
210. 243 Kesser Shem Tov
211. 269 Kesser Shem Tov
212. 52 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
213. 122 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
214. 213 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
215. 366 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
216. Note 43 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
217. 2 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
218. Note 2 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
219. 8 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
220. 11 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
221. 13 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
222. 22 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
223. 3 Ve-eschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
224. Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
225. 13 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
226. 14 Nitzvavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
227. 12 Tzavaas Harivash
228. 411 Kesser Shem Tov
229. 65 Tzavaas Harivash
230. Note 33 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
231. 57 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
232. 12 Va-yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
233. 74 Kesser Shem Tov
234. 92 Tzavaas Harivash
235. 11 Tzavaas Harivash
236. 31 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
     
     
237. 17 Va-Yeira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
238. 3 Metzoira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
239. 58 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
240. 55 Tzavaas Harivash
241. 12 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
242. 32 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
243. Note 158- Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
244. 149 Kesser Shem Tov
245. 393 Kesser Shem Tov
246. 1 Chukas– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
247. 49 Tzavaas Harivash
248. 3 Nitzavim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
249. 55 Kesser Shem Tov
250. 58 Yisroi– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
251. 17 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
252. 58 Veschanan– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
253. 230 Kesser Shem Tov
254. 10 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
255. 318 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
256. 161 Kesser Shem Tov
257. Note 1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
258. 6 Metzoirah– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
259. 28 Kedoishim– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
260. 223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
261. 34 Lech Licha – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
262. 214 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
263. 123 Kesser Shem Tov
264. 316 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
265. 68-71 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
266. 73 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
267. 74 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
268. 239 Kesser Shem Tov
269. 375 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
270. 64 Tzavaas Harivash
271. 89 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
272. 153 Kesser Shem Tov
273. 1 Pinchus– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
     
     
274. 164 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
275. 2 Breishis – Baal Shem Tov On The Torah
276. 1-2 Va-aira– Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
277. 53 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
278. 7-9 + Note 6 Noach – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
279. 55 Eikev – Baal Shem Tov on the Torah
280. 223 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
281. 6 Megilas Esther – Baal Shem Tov on The Torah
282. 40 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
283. 173 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)
284. 393 Kesser Shem Tov (The Rebbes)