Orthodox Union http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/C679/ The work Nefesh HaChaim, by Rabbi Chaim Volozhin, one of the foremost students of the Vilna Gaon and said to be the "Father of the Yeshivah Movement", is a classic, but not in the classical sense. There are four "gates" in the entire sefer, each one dealing with a different topic, and each topic treated on a relatively deep level of understanding. The first gate of 22 chapters explains what it means to have been made "in the image of God", and the implications of being so. The Nefesh HaChaim, quoting extensively from the Zohar, reveals the level of interaction between man and God, and how every act, word, and thought of Jew affects the direction of Creation, for good or for bad. To this extent, the entire sefer is very empowering, and encourages one to live up to his potential to become that which God cherishes most: a partner in fulfilling the plan for Creation. en Copyright 2013 2013-05-17T15:53:59+00:00 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/T6evDtBwXDo/ Shaar 4:Chpt 34 - This is the final chapter of Nefesh HaChaim. To complete the discussion about the importance of Torah, and for that matter, of the role man plays in Creation, which ties together the rest of the work as well, the Nefesh HaChaim shows how Torah learning is the only way to “build” a place for the Divine Presence to dwell in these non-Temple times in our world. And, unless the Divine Presence dwells among us, the strength of Creation cannot continue, and the world weakens as a result. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 15 Jan 2009 08:00:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_to_build_a_palace_for_g_d/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt34.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/KO4pNfI-8h0/ Shaar 4:Chpt 33 - As G-d told Yehoshua, Torah shall not leave your mouth; you have to learn it every moment you can, since only Torah provides life. One who turns away from Torah without good reason has chosen death, even while he remains alive. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 08 Jan 2009 08:00:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_learn_day_and_night/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt33.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/OrgVpL_Hk8Y/ Shaar 4:Chpt 32 - Torah is the elixir of life, in this world and the next one. When someone clings to it with all of his heart, he clings to life. Likewise, when a person turns away from Torah, he turns towards death, in this world, and in the World-to-Come, to the extent that he forsakes Torah. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 18 Dec 2008 08:00:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_elixir_of_life/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt32.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/MZc_hvfk3eE/ Shaar 4:Chpt 31 - One of the main functions of the sacrifices was to allow a person to atone for his sins, and not even the most serious of sins. However, the learning of Torah, since the light of Torah is on a higher level than the light of the sacrifices, is able to atone for every since, and more efficiently as well. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 11 Dec 2008 08:00:01 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_better_than_sacrifices/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt31.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/YhfOCkObK6o/ Shaar 4:Chpt 30 - Torah without mitzvot, and mitzvot without Torah, does not work; in the person has nothing. However, ultimately, even the light and holiness of the mitzvot flows from the light and holiness of Torah, whose root and source originates from a higher level. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 04 Dec 2008 10:03:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_torah_higher_than_mitzvot/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt30.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/O4SwDRbMFog/ Shaar 4:Chpt 29 - When it comes to the rest of the mitzvot, each one corresponds to a specific limb or tendon in the Sefirot, and the human body. Therefore, if sin is committed with a specific limb or tendon, it alone will be punished, measure-for-measure. However, since Torah corresponds to the entire body of Sefirot and therefore, of the person as well, wasting time from learning Torah can affect any limb, depending upon the need for rectification. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:00:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_different_from_rest_of_mitzvot/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt29.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/Kqz2uy7b_ZU/ Shaar 4:Chpt 28 - Torah is deceiving. On one hand, there is the simple explanation of the verse, and the basic laws that it teaches. Yet, hidden away in Torah, and recognizable only through hints, and the deepest and holiest of secrets, and a person has to pursue them to the best of his ability. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 13 Nov 2008 08:00:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_the_body_of_torah/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt28.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/CE7r25Lv62U/ Shaar 4:Chpt 27 - Most lights, as they descend from the upper realms, because weakened, causing their level of holiness to be reduced. However, this is not the case with Torah, which maintains its original and high level of holiness, even after its light descends into our mundane world. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:50:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_unchanging_torah/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt27.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/rFBLQO82a1Y/ Shaar 4:Chpt 26 - Even prayer needs Torah learning to be heard, since the root of the holy Torah is above the level of everything else. Therefore, nothing survives without Torah learning. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 30 Oct 2008 08:26:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_highest_level_of_all/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt26.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/MurX6EaDUuI/ Shaar 4:Chpt 25 - This chapter continues on with the theme of how destructive bitul Torah - the wasting of learning time - is to the world. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:00:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_the_sin_of_bitul_torah/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt25.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/ZdLLiCfZAUY/ Shaar 4:Chpt 24 - After showing all the wonderful results for learning Torah, the Nefesh HaChaim brings sources to show the dramatically negative impact of not learning Torah, especially one who can and doesn’t, and especially a Torah scholar who ceases to learn. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 02 Oct 2008 16:25:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_a_torah_scholar_who_strays/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt24.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/PppIFu6xqNU/ Shaar 4:Chpt 23 - After talking about the great things that happen for the person and the world when someone learns Torah, the Nefesh HaChaim brings the sources that speak about the opposite, when someone doesn’t learn Torah or, worse, they once did and stopped learning Torah. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 25 Sep 2008 09:39:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_if_you_don/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt23.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/KLgYZdgwL_M/ Shaar 4:Chpt 22 - G-d is prepared to overlook the three worst types of sins, on some occasions. However, He never overlooks the disgracing of Torah, and when the Jewish people forsake Torah learning, then the world moves in the direction of destruction. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 18 Sep 2008 09:54:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_world_depends_upon_learning/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt22.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/YxFDMO_CYYY/ Shaar 4:Chpt 21 - What awaits someone who devotes himself to the learning of Torah. The Hidden Light of Creation, for one, and all the secret reasons of the Torah that not even the prophets or angels are privy to.If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Wed, 10 Sep 2008 15:26:01 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_no_eye_has_seen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt21.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/ZXsbjY-ICCA/ Shaar 4:Chpt 20 - As the Talmud says, Torah scholars are “better” than prophets. In this chapter, the Nefesh HaChaim explains what this means, and why, as he continues to enhance one’s appreciation of the importance of learning Torah. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Rabbi Pinchas Winston Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:02:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_better_than_prophets/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt20.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/gD27c5AnHbk/ Shaar 4:Chpt 19 - The Zohar teaches that the entire Torah is one Name of G-d that incorporates all the Names. Therefore, when someone learns Torah, they “take” the Name of G-d, and G-d Himself, for, G-d and Torah are considered to be one. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Rabbi Pinchas Winston Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:20:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_torah_and_g_d_are_one/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt19.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/z0qSWVeuWH4/ Shaar 4:Chpt 18 - When one learns Torah, especially “lishma”, then not only is he not subject to the laws of nature, but they are given over to him to do his bidding, and the Divine Presence dwells upon him.If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 21 Aug 2008 10:48:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_world_subservient_to_torah/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt18.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/ZxBvZcHes8A/ Shaar 4:Chpt 17 - Anyone who toils in Torah in this world, Torah will toil for him in the time to come, for his soul in Heaven and his body in the grave, protecting them both from judgment. Even while in this world, Torah learning, especially for the right reasons, protects the person from all bad things.. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Wed, 13 Aug 2008 14:30:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_torah_is_complete_freedom/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt17.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/OeSMWuCY0kQ/ Shaar 4:Chpt 16 - The Nefesh HaChaim continues on with more sources regarding the amazing Heavenly help one gets when he devotes himself to Torah study. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 07 Aug 2008 09:15:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_more_benefits_of_torah/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt16.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/8Fv4GiySCeQ/ Shaar 4:Chpt 15 - Even though we are supposed to learn Torah “lishmah” — for its own sake — nevertheless, it is important to understand the personal benefits of learning Torah, such as protection of damaging angels and all kinds of suffering. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:39:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_torah_protection/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt15.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/hE1m-ddbUMQ/ Shaar 4:Chpt 14 - The Nefesh HaChaim continues to show the dramatic and overwhelming impact that learning Torah has on the upper worlds, and therefore, the lower worlds as a result. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:37:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_learning_enhances_creation/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt14.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/7EHqxh1pHTk/ Shaar 4:Chpt 13 - The Zohar reveals how our learning of Torah brings tremendous joy to G-d, like He had when He made Creation itself, and how our learning allows the world to continue.If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 17 Jul 2008 11:15:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_torah_is_g_d/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt13.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/PaEaE6YIghI/ Shaar 4:Chpt 12 - The Nefesh HaChaim continues to show how incredibly important the learning of Torah is from Heaven’s point of view, especially when someone acts as a vehicle to bring out Torah ideas that have yet to be revealed. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:48:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_heaven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt12.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/gPJ3yPAfm6s/ In this chapter, the Nefesh HaChaim brings sources to show how, without the learning of Torah, the world could not survive. And, how when someone learns Torah, he becomes a partner with G-d in Creation. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:13:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_eleven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt11.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/pEmfF1Syqzo/ By understanding what Torah actually is, and where its roots are, it becomes clear that learning Torah for the right reasons can’t help but make a person fear G-d.. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:30:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_ten/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt10.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/kI7-AORv88Y/ Learning Torah itself, for the right reasons, promotes fear of G-d. Therefore, one should not devote more time than necessary to studying fear of G-d or mussar in outside sources, when he should be learning Torah instead. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 19 Jun 2008 10:21:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_nine/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt9.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/92BG1IJORRA/ More on the idea of why learning works about fear of G-d and mussar only is not what a Jew should be doing. If there is no "wheat", then what good is the "store house"? If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:19:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_eight/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt8.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/trPR23gnYI8/ Not only is it good to prepare oneself before learning by working on fear of G-d and purity, but one should take a small break during learning to do the same, since it preserves one's learning and makes it more likely that the person will understand Torah properly. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 29 May 2008 09:07:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_seven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt7.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/UwN8dPiiWmo/ When it comes to actual Torah learning, one should prepare himself by increasing his fear of G-d. After all, not only is each word of Torah the word of G-d, but, any word of Torah that leaves our mouth, it leaves the mouth of G-d, so-to-speak, at the very same time. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 15 May 2008 12:38:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_six/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt6.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/ZzHtazToKYU/ The Nefesh HaChaim continues on with the theme that fear of G-d is essential for being able to learn and maintain Torah. Without it, Torah becomes despised by people. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 08 May 2008 10:09:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_five/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt5.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/FH6q7xoADyU/ The Talmud teaches that fear of G-d is crucial for being able to properly learn Torah, and to maintain it. The Nefesh HaChaim, in this chapter, expands on this very central point. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 01 May 2008 11:26:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_four/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt4.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/_ag9cWQGxvw/ The Nefesh HaChaim brings proof that learning Torah "lishma", that is, for its own sake, means for the sake of increasing one's knowledge, understanding, and sharpness, regardless of how much it improves one's "dveikut" - clinging to G-d. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 24 Apr 2008 08:51:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_three/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt3.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/qeoj_Lg6vGQ/ In this chapter, the Nefesh HaChaim shows the paramount importance of learning Talmud for its own sake, and how valuable it is to G_d, making the point that if one learns "Shas", not only will he have a favorable judgment, but the greatest of secrets will be revealed to him. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 10 Apr 2008 11:11:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_two/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt2.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/BFycVkmA_AE/ The Fourth section of Nefesh HaChaim deals with the importance of Torah, and the impact of learning it, especially for its own sake; bringing sources from the Talmud, Midrashim, and especially the zohar, to make it clear that their is nothing higher for the Jew than learning G-d's holy Torah. Chapter 1 - True to the theme of the entire work, the Nefesh HaChaim points out the mistaken thinking of his time regarding the importance of Torah and learning it for its own sake, to counter the growing movement that focused on "dveikut Hashem"-clinging to G-d at the cost of other learning priorities. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 03 Apr 2008 16:50:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_four_chapter_one/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar4_chpt1.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/An6wLWZ1pms/ In summation, at least during prayer, if not every other chance we get, we have to be real with the fact that G-d is the Master of all Forces, and there is nothing else but Him, no matter how it appears. All other forces have to be to us as if they really don’t exist at all. Moshe Rabbeinu was the only one, since Adam HaRishon, to reach this level, and no one else will until the time of Moshiach, but it come in our time. However, we must still try to achieve this understanding as much as possible even at this time in history. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 27 Mar 2008 09:36:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_fourteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt14.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/6ms-T0Rno0g/ The Forefathers were called the "Chariot" for G-d, for everywhere they went, the world became more aware of the Presence of G-d. Their entire lives were devoted to eliminating all belief in any force other than G-d. In Moshe Rabbeinu, this became a compete reality. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 20 Mar 2008 10:10:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_thirteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt13.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/eDhnlhEqbCg/ In the Talmud, Rebi Chanina ben Dosa is one of the greatest miracle workers. Even a witch, normally successful when cursing others, had no power over him. His secret? He knew "Ain od Milvado" - that there is no other power in Creation but G-d, and even magic only works, if and when it does, because of G-d and the forces He created and controls. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:25:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_twelve/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt12.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/7XqgiN-906w/ "Hashem is Elokim" - means that G-d, Whose Essence is beyond Name or description, is the Life Force and Source of all of existence, emanating throughout everything. He is the "Soul of all souls", and this is what we must think about when reciting the first verse of the "Shema Yisroel". If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 06 Mar 2008 14:37:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_eleven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt11.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/KSIQJ04Ith0/ In the first gate, the Nefesh HaChaim explained the concept of Elokim as the "Ba'al HaKochot"--the "Master of all Forces". In this chapter, he explains this concept more deeply, based upon what has been said in the last few chapters. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 28 Feb 2008 17:54:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_ten/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt10.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/i0O1udRo4Rc/ In this chapter, the Nefesh HaChaim distinguishes between the two Names of G-d, the Shem Hovayah and "Elokim". The former is the Name from which everything, including all the other Names of G-d, emanate. As well, the Nefesh HaChaim goes over how idol worship came to be based upon a misunderstanding of how G-d works in Creation. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 21 Feb 2008 16:10:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_nine/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt9.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/wXuqvmFkH08/ Even though we are not allowed to investigate or contemplate the reality of "Tzimtzum", that is, how God completely fills all of reality equally, still it is possible, and even good to be aware of it, in order to make one more real with the reality of God, and to inspire a more intense focus when actually praying. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:08:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_eight/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt8.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/-L8Hil-_q9c/ God constricted His light to result in a massive spherical void, where God's light is equally there, but it is hidden so that created beings can exist and eventually, one can exist that has and utilizes free will. From man's perspective, there are levels of revelation of God's light, and they line up like a chain, or a line of light with many levels to it, the uppermost part being the holiest and the lower-most part being the less spiritual, almost hiding the reality of God completely. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 31 Jan 2008 17:08:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_seven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt7.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/gAc-DpCaTfk/ The entire Torah and the commandments are based upon this second reality, namely that from our perspective, there is a difference between places, and therefore, different laws governing our behavior in each one-even though that from God’s perspective, He is everywhere equally. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 24 Jan 2008 17:20:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_six/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt6.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/KLnqo8RKMh8/ The rabbis refer to G-d as "HaKadosh Baruch Hu", The Holy One, Blessed is He, to allude to two levels. With respect to G-d's Essence, He is perfect and fills all aspects of Creation equally, the holy and impure places. "Kadosh" implies this level of existence. However, with respect to how the world appears to man, and how we are expected to act in it, it seems as if some places are holier than others, and if the actions of man can make a difference to the level of holiness and purity. The word "Baruch" implies this level of God's relationship to Creation. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 17 Jan 2008 17:25:01 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_five/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt5.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/lzzxvVgtGyw/ Having explained the word "HaMakom" on the simplest level, Rabbi Chaim Volozhin now explains it on a more esoteric level, resulting in a more profound understand of how G-d relates to Creation, and of how we are to relate to G-d. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 10 Jan 2008 15:21:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_four/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt4.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/OpbjdeP-rd4/ God is everywhere at all times, and that is why "HaMakom" - "The Place" is one of His Names. The world is not His place, but rather, He is the "place" of the world; everything exists within Him. However, that does not mean that one can think about Torah even in impure places... If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:42:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_three/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt3.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/rjpKXEIkjt8/ When the rabbis use analogies to help us better relate to God, we have to appreciate that the analogy is not the complete story. Rather, though it helps us to better understand how God interacts with Creation, it does not allow us to understand God's Essence. Thus, even though God is considered to be to the world what the soul is to the body, it is only partially true, since the soul does not give reality to the body as does God to all of Creation. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:11:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_chapter_two/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_chpt2.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/HWvA6SKhmhg/ Of the many Names by which God is called, perhaps one of the most instructive, and yet confusing is HaMakom -- The Place. Shaar 3 discusses this concept and explains what it means and what it does not mean. However, the main concept is that HaMakom means that God is the place of Creation, and not that Creation is His place. If a cup sits on a table, and the table is suddenly removed from under the cup, the cup does not cease to exist, having an independent existence from the "place" upon which it sat. However, this is not the case with respect to God, Who is called "The Place of the World", and Who gives existence to everything. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 20 Dec 2007 17:40:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_three_introduction_chapter_one/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar3_int_chpt1.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/8fw8IwzbchE/ This is the final chapter in this section of Nefesh HaChaim, in which Rabbi Chaim Volozhin explains that a person, after he has become used to achieving the level of intention described regarding the Nefesh, Ruach, and Neshamah of each word, he should have intention for this level of soul as well, the Chiyah - the "Soul of the Soul". Then he can truly fulfill the concept of pouring out his soul to G-d in prayer. There is a short summary of the entire section at the end of this session. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 13 Dec 2007 16:17:01 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_eighteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt18.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/JCcT_0QtoKc/ Until now, we only spoke about three levels: Nefesh, Ruach, and Neshamah, and how they correspond to the the three levels of action, speech, and thought, with respect to the words of prayer. In this chapter, a fourth level is revealed: the Neshamah of the Neshamah, a level we cannot access today, and which corresponds to the different permutations incorporated in a word of prayer. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 06 Dec 2007 14:01:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_seventeen1/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt17.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/Bi93G5mpuw4/ Each word of prayer has three aspects to it that correspond to Nefesh, Ruach, and Neshamah, the three lower levels of a person's soul. The letters themselves correspond to Nefesh, the vowels to Ruach, and the concept to Neshamah. Therefore, if a person has intention for all three when he is praying, then he literally pours out his soul to G-d in prayer. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 29 Nov 2007 14:35:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_sixteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt16.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/HbJ5G8SXMEs/ There are a people who can be very focussed during times of prayer, and there are those who struggle to do so even a little. There are times when it is easy to concentrate, and then there are times when it is not so easy. Whomever the person and whatever the time, if it is a time to pray, a person has to do his personal best to offer his soul up to G-d with each word of prayer.If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 15 Nov 2007 15:04:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_fifteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt15.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/c0dNt9fBxlk/ When a person prays, he has to divorce himself completely from matters of the body, until his prayer becomes completely a matter of his soul. Indeed, each word of prayer that leave his mouth is considered a part of his soul, so that as he utters it, it is as if a piece of soul is ascending to its upper root. It is this that is called the "service of G-d with the soul". If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 08 Nov 2007 14:31:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_fourteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt14.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/4NQfamgWKvg/ Thus, it is absolutely crucial to clear one's mind of any extraneous thoughts in advance of prayer, even if they have to do with Torah or mitzvot. The Men of the Great Assembly, of which there were 120 members, many of whom were prophets, composed each word of prayer or of the blessings because of the wondrous rectifications it can perform in the upper and lower worlds, and we must be as focused on this during prayer as possible. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:29:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_thirteen/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt13.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/a094Gol0uG0/ When a person sins, he causes tremendous suffering to Heaven, though he may be oblivious of this at the time. However, when Heaven imposes suffering on him to rectify his sin, as he suffers, so too does Heaven as well, because G-d suffers along side us. Therefore, when a person prays to end his suffering, in reality, he should pray to relieve Heaven of its suffering, and automatically this will take care of his own. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:50:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_twelve/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt12.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/s75wROukN1Q/ We don't think twice about praying for an end to our suffering or that of others. But, asks the Nefesh HaChaim, suffering helps to atone for our sins, so what business do we have in asking for them to end? Do we beg a doctor to stop administering life-saving medicine just because it is bitter? Rather, explains Rav Chaim, we want suffering to end because it profanes the Name of G-d when Jews suffer, not to mention the fact that G-d suffers along side those in pain. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 18 Oct 2007 14:28:01 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_eleven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt11.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/A-e4D9YtR1w/ The Men of the Great Assembly, of which there were 120 members, many of whom were prophets, chose each word of prayer and of each blessing specifically because of the impact it is meant to have in the upper worlds. On the high spiritual level on which they lived, they could know things about prayer and its effect that we cannot. However, it is enough for us to know that when we open our mouths in prayer, we have a tremendous rectifying effect on the upper worlds and on Creation in general. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 11 Oct 2007 14:05:01 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_ten/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt10.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/dP75AZHorxA/ Thus, prayer is the main "food" that feeds the worlds and the soul of man as well, and specifically at the times designated for prayer. "A true servant," explains the Nefesh HaChaim, "has to have intention for this when he prays," namely that he is feeding the upper worlds. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:44:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_nine/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt9.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/1d94S6A43b0/ This is why, the Nefesh HaChaim explains, it says in the Talmud that anyone who says that G-d overlooks our sins will be overlooked altogether (Bava Kamma 50a). It is not a matter of revenge, but because since a person's sin by definition "poisons" the worlds, by necessity, rectification must come either through punishment or teshuvah. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:03:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_eight/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt8.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/w1ai3Ku3GEk/ To maintain a healthy body, one must feed it healthy food. Unhealthy food does little to fulfill the needs of the body, and can even cause it illness. Likewise, for the universe to remain "healthy", we must feed it healthy food: mitzvot, and avoid feeding it "unhealthy food": sins, otherwise the universe becomes "ill", resulting in the strengthening of the forces of impurity and suffering of the righteous. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 30 Aug 2007 14:50:01 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_seven/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt7.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/TuPYbYEf3_k/ Everything needs to eat in this world, including the sefirot, those spiritual emanations responsible for receiving the light of G-d, filtering it down, and passing it on to the levels below them, so that our world can exist, and we can exercise free-will. However, their food is not like ours, but rather they "feed" off the Torah we learn and the mitzvot that we perform, and in this way we help the universe, both the physical and the spiritual one, to remain "healthy". If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 16 Aug 2007 14:45:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_six/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt6.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/8l3T3kgaJ3U/ In order to better understand how our blessings and prayers make a difference to the world, the Nefesh HaChaim first shows how there is a comparison between the body of man and that of the spiritual universe, the Ten Sefirot. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 09 Aug 2007 14:42:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_five/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt5.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/Q_6st6oN7vo/ As it turns out, there is something that we can increase with respect to G-d, and that is the extent to which He connects to Creation, and how. Whether He is very revealed or only partially revealed, whether He acts with mercy or with anger, depends upon the flow of light from the upper realm to the lower one, something that we affect by making blessings and through prayer. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 02 Aug 2007 14:39:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_four/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt4.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/2Ei1YnZvMLE/ According to the Torah, and especially Kabbalah, G-d has many Names, some holier than others. However, the Kabbalists point out, it is always important to remember that these Names do not refer to G-d's Essence, which is beyond description, but rather to the way that He interacts with Creation, something that can change based upon the will of G-d and the needs of history. Thus, there are times when G-d is more revealed, and there are times when He is less revealed, though G-d Himself never changes, and it is up to man to try to maintain the former and to avoid the latter. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 26 Jul 2007 14:34:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_three/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt3.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/w7u97vbyrSI/ The first stage in revealing the deeper aspect of prayer is in understanding what we mean when we say, "Boruch". If G-d is perfect, then there is nothing we can bless Him with, especially since the real meaning of "boruch" is to cause something to increase. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:32:01 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_chapter_two/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_chpt2.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/uH9bMFpal9k/ In the "First Gate" of Nefesh HaChaim, we learned about the five levels of the soul, Nefesh, Ruach, Neshamah, Chiyah, and Yechidah, and how, like a ladder, they span the entire distance from the lowest part of Creation to the uppermost part of existence. As a result, though a person's physical body only occupies a small fraction of a low spiritual world, his soul reaches to the highest heights ... We are commanded to serve G-d with all of our heart, which the rabbis explain to mean prayer, which is called the "service of the heart". This might have only meant praying to G-d without distraction, but when the Torah says that we should pray with all of our soul as well, it indicates that there is more to prayer than most people think. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 12 Jul 2007 14:27:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_shaar_two_introduction_chapter_one/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/shaar2_intro_chpt1.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/7ipmmoEwCh8/ The holy Torah in our midst is beyond us, beyond intellectual grasp; man does not possess sufficient knowledge to begin to change its laws and its appointed times. Even for the person who merits to understand the secrets of our holy Torah, it is only to allow the individual to realize just how impactful each act, word, or thought can be on the worlds and forces above and below. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 05 Jul 2007 14:30:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_twenty_two_beyond_us/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter22.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/1C3xnP8I0pY/ If man is involved with Torah for the proper reasons, in order to protect and uphold all that is written within it, then his entire being is purified. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 28 Jun 2007 14:35:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_twenty_one_pure_purposes_pure_being/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter21.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/DxoIAE8uNV8/ When a person damages the level of Nefesh, and as a result he sinks to the depths of the impure forces, then through verbal confession from the depths of his heart and as a result of moving his lips on the level of Nefesh of Ruach, his words reach high up and cause an emanation of additional light from G-d. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 21 Jun 2007 14:08:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_twenty_sinking_and_rising_up/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter20.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/kChiNPzWWOU/ Transgressions below cause the Shechinah, the hidden upper Nefesh, to become "loosened" from its upper connection; this is the concept of exile. G-d did a wondrous thing by establishing the three levels Nefesh, Ruach, and Neshama, whose upper level is connected to the lower level of the one above it. They resemble a chain, whose links connect when the upper part of one attaches to the lower part of another. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 14 Jun 2007 14:30:01 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_nineteen_loosening_links/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter19.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/SgQ76Cz_4a0/ G-d's will is to make us righteous and to bestow good to us. To this end, He established a system within which the three levels are joined, each one to the level above it, so that man can elevate himself little by little through his involvement in Torah and his service of G-d in purity and love and fear. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 07 Jun 2007 14:25:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_eighteen_bestowing_good_or_on_three_levels/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter18.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/6iV644Krjhk/ A person should contemplate how much he needs to focus on and think about all aspects his service of his Creator, in order that it should be perfect, complete, holy, and pure. He should always examine his actions, words, and thoughts, which correspond to the three levels, Nefesh, Ruach, and Neshamah. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 31 May 2007 15:24:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_seventeen_self_examination/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter17.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/WpR9E8WRZe0/ Part of the Neshamah hovers and illuminates the head within close proximity. It is the high level of understanding, the secrets of Torah. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 17 May 2007 14:00:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_sixteen_secrets_of_torah/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter16.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/UuGVvzSf2fI/ The Neshamah is the internal, hidden breath, its source being the "breath" of G-d's mouth, so-to-speak. Its essence never enters the body of man, though Adam HaRishon, before he transgressed, merited this essence. However, because of the sin, it was withdrawn and now only "hovers" above man. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 10 May 2007 14:48:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_fifteen_a_hovering_breath/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter15.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/aajbWHgPxac/ All of this is true for the impact of thought as well. It is possible for two people to commit the exact same transgression, and yet receive different punishments if the level of understanding of one is greater than that of the other. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 03 May 2007 15:47:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_fourteen_power_of_thought/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter14.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/UHGPaVNrHbk/ The same is true of the effect that speech has above. Thus, all that emanates from a man's mouth has an impact and arouses forces above. Positive speech adds strength to the holy forces, and impure speech, G-d forbid, builds heavens and worlds of waste for the Obstructing Angel, --d forbid. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 26 Apr 2007 15:45:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_thirteen_power_of_speech/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter13.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/QoAXULUEWi0/ From the beginning of Creation G-d established that the worlds should depend upon the impact of the good, or G-d forbid, bad actions of man. Each of his actions and all that he involves himself with automatically makes an impression at its specific source and root. This necessitates that he receive judgment based upon the impure forces his actions strengthened, according to the extent that they damaged. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 19 Apr 2007 14:04:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_twelve_making_an_impression/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter12.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/kqrRk97KCRU/ This is why the angels who praise with their three-fold Kedushah in the Name of the Most High, do so only after we have done so below, even though their Kedushah is on a higher level than ours. It is not to show honor to Yisroel, but, because they lack the ability to open their mouths in praise of their Creator, until the sound of our Kedushah reaches them. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 12 Apr 2007 14:33:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_eleven_reciting_kedusha_or_holy_holy_holy/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter11.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/sw14oY6XoOQ/ In one thing is man greater than angels: it is he who elevates and unifies the worlds, the forces, and the lights. An angel does not possess the ability to elevate and unify each world with the one above it, since it includes no component of the world above it. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 29 Mar 2007 14:03:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_ten_man_not_angels/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter10.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/62c32EjDwow/ The Generation of the Desert, who merited to eat from the "Table of High" - bread from heaven everyday, clothes that did not wear away, and who never needed to be involved with a livelihood, according to all opinions, could only be considered to have fulfilled the will of G-d if they looked Heavenward without deviation, and with hearts devoted to Torah, the service of G-d, and to the fear of Him day and night. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 22 Mar 2007 13:41:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_nine_looking_heavenward/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter9.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/PgG9SUp5Kwo/ As long as the Jewish people merited it, the Keruvim cleaved face-to-face; but when they sinned, they turned away from each other. Thus when the Jewish people merited it they faced each other, and through this miracle they knew if they had merit or not. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Tue, 13 Mar 2007 19:20:00 -0500 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_eight_face_to_face/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter8.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/x3hf71cNehA/ Just as the limbs of the body act in accordance with the movements and direction of the living soul within him, so too do the forces, worlds, and sections of the "Merkavah" respond to the actions of man - to be built up and perfected, or, G-d forbid, destroyed. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 08 Mar 2007 13:07:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_seven_responding_to_your_actions_or_building_worlds/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter7.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/aRv40Fwmdz0/ Each aspect of man's being corresponds to a specific world and force within the structure of forces and worlds, which were arranged to resemble the way a man is built. When a person does the will of G-d and uses a particular limb and strength within it to perform one of the mitzvot of G-d, the rectification reaches the specific world and force above intended to receive it for the sake of its rectification. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 01 Mar 2007 18:29:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_six_corresponding_worlds/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter6.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/g2x9rW2AvOU/ Hence, the worlds respond to the actions of man, which according to their leaning arouse the root of the "upper soul" which is above them, and which is their living spirit. When he moves, they move; if he remains stationary, they are silent. When G-d blew into man's nostrils a living soul, man became a living soul to all the worlds. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 22 Feb 2007 15:26:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_five_a_living_soul/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter5.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/AENmududp4E/ A Jew should never think to himself, "What am I, and what difference can my insignificant actions make to the world?" On the contrary, how many and exalted are his actions, each one reaching up to its specific root, to have its impact in the highest heights. f you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 15 Feb 2007 15:44:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_four_individual_impact/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter4.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/z3YMdOSuZXY/ Likewise, when G-d created man, He empowered him to control countless forces and worlds... Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 08 Feb 2007 15:34:01 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_three_man_is_empowered/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter3.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/6qxm5jxP4-Q/ It is important to understand why "Elokim" specifically was used, as opposed to another name of G-d. The Name "Elokim" means "Master of all Forces"...If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Thu, 01 Feb 2007 16:08:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_two_master_of_all_forces/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/chapter2.mp3 http://feeds.ou.org/~r/NefeshHachaimWithRabbiPinchasWinston/~3/W6sKaJeaJTc/ It is written, "And G-d created the man in His image (tzelem)" (Bereishit 1:27). The essence of the concept "image" is one of the loftiest of ideas and comprises most of the inner secrets of the Zohar. However, we will speak only of the word "image" in simple terms, as understood by the early interpreters who understood the word "image" to be similar to "likeness" in meaning. If you have questions and comments for Rabbi Pinchas Winston, please email nefeshhachaim@ou.org. Audio Nefesh HaChaim Wed, 24 Jan 2007 18:35:00 -0600 http://www.ouradio.org/index.php/ouradio/channel/nefesh_hachaim_chapter_one_image_of_god/http://program.ouradio.org/audio/winston/intro_chapter1.mp3