Short, soul-stirring stories from across the flavors of Chassidus—Breslov, Chabad, Ger, and more. In just a few minutes, Rav Shlomo Katz brings the heart of Chassidus to life, one tale at a time.
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz Podcasts
Rav Shlomo Katz guides us through Shaar HaYichud VehaEmunah, the second section of the Alter Rebbe’s Tanya. With warmth, depth, and heart, we explore the foundations of Jewish faith and Divine unity—what it really means to say “Ein od milvado,” and how creation itself reveals Hashem’s oneness. Perfect for seekers ready to go deeper into Chassidus, Emunah, and the living heartbeat of reality itself.
…
continue reading
This is a collection of shiurim to help us prepare to light the Aish Kodesh (holy fire) of the Channukah menorah. It offers new insights on the pnimiut of these important days.
…
continue reading
Launched in the wake of October 7, 2023, this gripping series by Rav Shlomo Katz explores nekama (revenge) through a Torah lens, shattering the avodah zarah of political correctness. Rejecting excessive hasbara, it reclaims nekama as a divine imperative to confront evil, rooted in love for Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael. Drawing on the fearless teachings of our sages, each episode guides olim and Jews worldwide to awaken from a galut coma, actualizing Malchut’s justice in preparation for Mashiach.
…
continue reading
What does it mean to truly get ready for Matan Torah? In this series, Rav Shlomo Katz guides us through the emotional, spiritual, and practical steps of preparing for Shavuot. Drawing from Chassidic masters including Rav Kook, Rebbe Nachman, the Piasetzna Rebbe, as well a deep dive into Megilat Rut, each episode helps you build toward a deeper, more personal Kabbalat HaTorah—one that’s alive, real, and yours.
…
continue reading
Join Rav Shlomo Katz and the Shirat David community for deep, practical insights from the Piaseczna Rebbe’s transformative work, "Hachsharas Ha'Avreichim." Each episode offers wisdom on mindfulness, authentic spirituality, and nurturing a heartfelt relationship with Hashem.
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz explores the teachings of Rav Shlomo Carlebach zt"l on the Parsha with the sefer Even Shlomo
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz explores Ma’amar Hayeled from Rav Avraham Tzvi Kluger’s Korva El Nafshi, revealing the inner child’s role in manifesting G-d’s glory. Through Torah wisdom and heartfelt stories, Rav Katz guides listeners to reconnect with their pure, untouched inner flame, fostering authentic living and divine connection. From redefining kedusha to fulfilling Yerushalayim’s prophecy, this series illuminates a path to spiritual renewal and inner peace.
…
continue reading
In this captivating seven-episode series, Rav Shlomo Katz brings to life the Mamar Hashalom from Rav Avraham Tzvi Kluger’s Korva El Nafshi. Through soulful teachings and heartfelt stories, Rav Katz guides listeners to achieve shalom bayit—harmony between body and soul. From tracing self-doubt to Adam’s sin to rediscovering childlike kedusha, each episode offers practical wisdom to live authentically in the moment, free from external judgment. Listeners learn to cultivate self-value, overcome ...
…
continue reading
In this series Rav Shlomo Katz explores the inspiring, powerful Torah and Wisdom of Reb Usher Freund zt"l
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz brings Lag Ba'Omer to life with a soulful compilation of Torah teachings on Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai (Rashbi). Through niggunim and Chassidic wisdom, he explores Rashbi’s divine light, the joy of Torah revelation, and Am Yisrael’s unity. This series offers a transformative journey, celebrating Lag Ba'Omer’s bonfires and the eternal flame of Rashbi’s legacy.
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz takes us on a journey through Bilvavi Mishkan Evneh — a sefer not just about belief, but about living with Hashem in every breath, step, and moment. Based on the teachings of Rav Itamar Schwartz, we explore questions like: What does Hashem actually want from me? How do I build a real relationship with Him? What if I don’t feel anything? What if I don’t ask enough? This isn’t about more learning. It’s about becoming someone who walks with G-d. The Mishkan isn’t somewhere else. ...
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz celebrates Yud-Tes Kislev, the “Rosh Hashanah of Chassidut,” through a vibrant compilation of his niggunim and Chassidic teachings. Drawing from years of inspiration, Rav Katz weaves the Alter Rebbe’s liberation with melodies and insights that illuminate the inner Torah. From royal simcha to Messianic hope, each episode invites listeners to transform darkness into light, deepening their connection to Hashem through Chassidut’s timeless wisdom.
…
continue reading
A collection of classes to prepare us for the new year -Rosh Hashana. Rav Shlomo takes on a journey to connect deeper with the avodah of Rosh Hashana through various texts from Rav Kook, the Aish Kodesh, Rav Tzadok HaKohen, Rebbe Nachman, and more.
…
continue reading
Our men's chabura started to learn the mitzvah of אהבת ישראל, through the Gemara, the Rambam, Chabad and Rav Kook.
…
continue reading

1
Rectifying the State of Israel: Rav Shlomo Katz on Rav Ginsburgh's Tikkun HaMedinah
Rav Shlomo Katz
Rav Shlomo Katz and the chevra of Shirat David dive into one of the boldest and most transformative Torah texts of our generation, "Tikkun HaMedinah" (Rectifying the State of Israel) by Rav Yitzchak Ginsburgh. This series is a spiritual and intellectual journey through the soul of Am Yisrael, the identity of a Jewish state, and the deep inner work needed to align national destiny with divine will. From politics to prophecy, this is a call to heal, to rebuild, and to reveal the holiness at th ...
…
continue reading
Rav Kook & Chevron is a powerful series exploring the spiritual and historical bond between Rav Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook—one of the greatest Jewish thinkers of the modern era—and the ancient city of Chevron. From the early seeds of connection during Rav Kook's lifetime to his pivotal role in rebuilding the city after World War I, each episode uncovers a chapter in this dramatic relationship.
…
continue reading
Anyone who has learned anything 'pnimi' regarding Yom Kippur understands that the joy this day contains is immeasurable.
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz delves into the wisdom of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov zy"a
…
continue reading
A series of shiurim by Rav Shlomo Katz on the 3 weeks, Tish'a B'av as we mourn the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash in Yerushalayim and other tragedies that befell the Jewish people throughout the generations.
…
continue reading
A collection of classes learning from the incredibly passionate diary entries of the Piasetnzer Rebbe, from the years 1928 -1939, entitled 'Tzav Veziruz'.
…
continue reading
This Moment in Israel is a podcast with Rav Shlomo Katz offering deep, Chassidic insights on the latest events in Israel. In a time of war, crisis, and spiritual awakening, this series helps you make sense of the headlines through the lens of Torah, emunah, and the soul of Am Yisrael. Tune in for inspiring commentary, authentic Jewish wisdom, and music-infused reflections that uplift and guide you through these historic moments.
…
continue reading
This six-part series journeys deep into the heart of Elul through the lens of the Alter Rebbe’s foundational Ma’amar Ani Ledodi. Explore the origin and inner meaning of the phrase “The King is in the Field,” revealing how Elul is not just a time of fear or introspection, but of divine intimacy, mercy, and radical closeness. With Chassidic depth and personal honesty, each episode opens a window into the soul’s yearning and the profound truth that even when we feel distant, Hashem is nearer th ...
…
continue reading
In "The Mitzvah of Eretz Yisrael," Rav Shlomo Katz takes us deep into the heart and soul of one of Judaism's most profound and debated mitzvot. What does it really mean to conquer, dwell, and truly live in the land of Israel today? Is it merely about physical settlement, or is there a deeper spiritual conquest at play? Drawing on Torah sources, Chassidic insights, and practical halacha, we’ll explore questions like: How central is living in Eretz Yisrael to fulfilling our Jewish destiny? Can ...
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz explores important perspectives and practical insights into our mental health and well-being, based on the writings and teachings of some of our nation's greatest Tzaddikim.
…
continue reading
Redemption restores us to the greatest and healthiest version of us. We seem to be on the way, but what still seems to be getting in the way? Based on the teachings of Rav Ruvain Sasson, we begin to explore these questions.
…
continue reading
A series of shiurim series to help prepare ourselves to meet the King. New insights on the pnimiut of these important days.
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz explains the unique depth, and relevance of each day of Sefirat Ha'Omer in this series of brief, daily episodes
…
continue reading
A collection of various recordings of Rav Shlomo Katz including Musical Hallels, Seasonal Drashot, and Divrei Chizzuk
…
continue reading
What type of rest do we yearn for on Shabbat? How do we frame our mindset during the week to prepare for Shabbat and how can we transform our Shabbat experience? Using the teachings of Rabbi Yaakov Meir Shechter, a leading Breslov Rabbi, in his sefer Yom Machmadim, we build tools towards enhancing our ability to connect to the day of rest.
…
continue reading
A collection of shiurim by Rav Shlomo Katz on the topic of the month of Adar and the holiday of Purim.
…
continue reading
Understanding the concept of sincere forgiveness and atonement
…
continue reading
Welcome to the Shirat David Podcast, where we bring you a collection of insightful and inspiring talks from a diverse group of guest speakers. Each episode offers wisdom, personal stories, and guidance on spirituality, community, and personal growth. Whether you're a member of our community or tuning in from afar, these recordings from Shirat David are sure to uplift and engage
…
continue reading

1
Megilat Rut Part 4: Why Do We Read Rut On Shavuot?
1:00:02
1:00:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:02Two different explanations from Reb Levi Yitzchak of Berdichev as to why we read Megilat Rut on ShavuotBy Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
20. How Did Rebbe Shimon Come into the World?
42:05
42:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:05Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai didn’t just appear—he arrived, against all odds, as a soul born of impossible tefillos and impossible beginnings. In this stirring Lag BaOmer teaching, Rav Shlomo Katz channels the fiery words of Rav Elimelech Biderman, uncovering how Rebbe Shimon’s birth was not just a moment in time but a statement from Heaven: Am Yisrael …
…
continue reading

1
4. A Besora from Heaven: A Message Before the Geulah
42:09
42:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:09We revisit a remarkable farbrengen from Yud-Tes Kislev 5739 (1978), where the Lubavitcher Rebbe reveals the origins of Yud-Tes Kislev from a source that no one expected. What does it mean when a besora—a divine message, a good tiding—descends from heaven? How does it change our relationship to Torah, to redemption, to ourselves? Through niggunim, s…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz concludes Ma’amar Hayeled from Korva El Nafshi, exploring how embracing the inner child’s eternal renewal fulfills Yerushalayim’s prophecy. He teaches that living authentically, like “boys and girls playing”, aligns us with G-d’s ever-new vitality. By blending the adult’s wisdom with the child’s purity, we embody “constant renewal”,…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz, channeling Rav Avraham Tzvi Kluger, explores why adults struggle to live purely in the moment, unlike children who naturally embody kedusha. Learn to silence the external observer—comparisons, regrets—and embrace the present with authentic connection. Reclaim the “utmost connection to reality” for shalom. Reflect nightly to find mo…
…
continue reading

1
12. Standing Up to Restore Nekama and Kiddush Hashem
53:02
53:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:02In the final session, Rav Shlomo Katz calls Am Yisrael to "stand up" (kum), as inspired by Rabbi Meir Kahane, rejecting the humiliation of galut mentality that tolerates evil, as seen in post-October 7, 2023, hostage releases and societal compromises. Drawing from Tehillim’s plea for Hashem to rise, this episode urges Jews to walk with dignity, era…
…
continue reading

1
61. Completing Tikkun HaMedinah with the Menorah’s Seventh Candle
38:35
38:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:35In this final episode, Rav Shlomo Katz celebrates the completion of Rav Yitzchak Ginsburgh’s Tikkun HaMedinah. The menorah’s seventh candle, embodying Malchut’s humility, unifies all Sefirot, reflecting Torah, Am Yisrael, and Eretz Yisrael as one. Through aliyah, olim actualize this tikkun, transforming the Medinah into a divine monarchy for Mashia…
…
continue reading

1
71. Wow, Part of Me Really Wants What YOU Want
42:51
42:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:51In the final episode of this transformative journey through Bilvavi Mishkan Evneh, Rav Shlomo Katz and the women of Shirat David explore the inner harmony that begins to emerge when my will starts to mirror Hashem’s. Three deep processes are always unfolding within us, and when they align, something sacred awakens. The Mishkan is built. Not out the…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz and the chevra of Shirat David finish the 12th and final chapter of the Alter Rebbe's Sha'ar Hayichud Veha'emunaBy Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Megilat Rut Part 3: Naomi's Vision & Greatness
57:54
57:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
57:54How did Naomi become Naomi, and what did Rut see in her?By Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Megilat Rut Part 2: Our Introduction to Boaz
51:17
51:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:17As soon as the megila records the first few words of Boaz, we learn of a new light, the light of Mashiach that begins to shine forth.By Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Megilat Rut Part 1: What Does it Mean to Be Tzanu'a ?
1:01:41
1:01:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:41What did Boaz really see in Ruth? In this opening shiur on Megilat Rut, Rav Shlomo Katz guides us into the soul of tzniut—not as modesty of dress, but as a posture of presence, humility, and royalty.By Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
What Is The Chiddush of Shavuot? (Preparing For Shavuot #12)
49:48
49:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:48Based on a teaching by Reb Nosson of Breslov, we learn of the chiddush that took place once the Torah was placed in the world.By Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Temimut: Then, Now, & Always (Preparing For Shavuot #11)
51:14
51:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:14Before you can receive the Torah, you have to return to something deeper than brilliance. You have to return to temimut—wholeness, sincerity, simple truth. Rav Shlomo Katz brings down a beautiful teaching from the tzaddik of Yerushalayim, Reb Yaakov Meir Shechter. We learn how the Torah wasn’t, and isn’t given to the clever or the perfect, but to t…
…
continue reading

1
Be Yourself, Everyone Else Is Taken (Preparing For Shavuot #10)
45:58
45:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:58At Har Sinai, it was not only Torah and mitzvot that were revealed to us. We discovered our own true, inner essence. The result? Responding to G-d, NA'ASEH VENISHMA. In this class, we learn the beautiful words of Rav Kook from 1932, as Shavuot day was approaching.By Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Inside I’m Gold: The Piasetzna Rebbe on Shavuot Night (Preparing For Shavuot #9)
45:32
45:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:32Shavuot night, 1929. Warsaw hums in holy anticipation. Reb Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, the Piaseczno Rebbe, reveals a radiant teaching from the Baal Shem Tov that pierces straight to the soul: Inside, I’m gold. No matter how tarnished or tired we feel, the inner spark remains untouched. In this powerful shiur, Rav Shlomo Katz guides us through the Pi…
…
continue reading

1
Marching Towards Shavuot with Rebbe Nachman (Preparing For Shavuot #8)
46:38
46:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:38It’s the sixth week of Sefira, and you feel unprepared. Again. So did Rebbe Nachman. And through two searing letters from Reb Nosson to his son, we’re shown a breathtaking path forward—one paved not with perfection, but with truth. Rav Shlomo Katz walks us hand-in-hand with Breslov’s deepest lights through the inner work of these final days before …
…
continue reading

1
The Avoda of Rosh Chodesh Sivan: The HQ of Passion (Preparing For Shavuot #7)
1:06:18
1:06:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:18What if preparing for Shavuot isn’t just about learning more, but about wanting more? Rav Shlomo Katz takes us into the depths of Rosh Chodesh Sivan, guided by the radiant lights of the Ohr HaChaim and Reb Tzadok HaKohen of Lublin. This day, often passed over quietly, is revealed as the Headquarters of Passion, the time when Am Yisrael arrives at t…
…
continue reading

1
Boaz & Ruth: The Ingredients For An Intriguing Relationship of Holiness (Preparing For Shavuot #6)
47:25
47:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:25What made Ruth find favor in Boaz’s eyes? Rav Shlomo Katz opens up the first meeting between Ruth and Boaz—not as a romantic tale, but as a blueprint for holy connection. Ruth’s words, “And I am a foreigner,” are not a disclaimer, but the very reason she is worthy of being seen. Her sense of distance, of not-yet-being, is what draws Boaz in. Throug…
…
continue reading

1
How Many Times Have You Despaired? (Preparing For Shavuot #5)
36:21
36:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:21There is a secret in the calendar hidden in plain sight on the 2nd of Sivan. Rav Shlomo Katz reveals the day of Yom HaMiyuchas, the Day of Lineage, as a wellspring of identity, hope, and preparation for Matan Torah. Drawing from the teachings of the Piaseczno Rebbe and the heartbeats of Avraham and Sarah, we discover that the foundation of Am Yisra…
…
continue reading

1
No More Self-Denial (Preparing For Shavuot #4)
35:54
35:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:54Shavuot preparation based on the teachings of Rav Kook. Efrat, IsraelBy Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading
Shavuot preparation based on the teachings of Reb Yaakov Meir Shechter Efrat, IsraelBy Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Once You Get The Rhythm (Preparing For Shavuot #2)
49:17
49:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:17Shavuot preparation based on the teachings of Reb Yaakov Meir Shechter Efrat, IsraelBy Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Loving Through Learning (Preparing For Shavuot #1)
34:14
34:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:14Based on the teachings of Reb Yaakov Meir Shechter Efrat, IsraelBy Rav Shlomo Katz
…
continue reading

1
Preparing for Shavuot with a Broken Heart
36:09
36:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:09The Rizhiner Rebbe reveals a surprising path to Kabbalat HaTorah: not through perfection, but through a broken heart. Rav Shlomo Katz teaches that even if we haven’t prepared the way we hoped, there’s still a way in: by being real about where we are and letting that move us. That honesty is the clearest vessel to receive the Torah.…
…
continue reading
Can non-Jews dwell in Eretz Yisrael according to halacha today? Rav Shlomo Katz explores the status of ger toshav—a non-Jew who commits to the seven Noahide laws and aligns with the values of a Jewish society—and the halachic tension created by the absence of yovel. Drawing from the Rambam, Rav Herzog, and modern examples like the Druze community, …
…
continue reading

1
25. Boundaries, Bravery, and the Torah’s Vision for the Land
8:32
8:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:32As Am Yisrael returns home, the Torah presents clear halachic guidelines about who may dwell in the Land and under what terms. Rav Shlomo Katz explores the opinions of Rashi, the Rambam, and the Sefer HaChinuch on the mitzvos of lo techanem and lo yeshvu be’artzecha—not as political slogans, but as enduring halachic frameworks. Through real-life ex…
…
continue reading

1
24. Land, Covenants, and the Borders of Holiness
4:46
4:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:46When Am Yisrael returns home, who else is here, and what does the Torah ask of us in response? Rav Shlomo Katz opens a deeply sensitive and essential conversation around two core prohibitions in the Torah: forming covenants and selling land to non-Jews in Eretz Yisrael. With humility and fire, he brings the words of the פסוקים, the wisdom of the sa…
…
continue reading

1
23. When Each Tribe Returns Home: The Deeper Conditions for Shemitah and Yovel
4:48
4:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:48It’s not just about being back in the Land. It’s about being back in our place. Rav Shlomo Katz opens the gates of time and prophecy, guiding us through the halachic and prophetic conditions for the return of Shemitah and Yovel. With the Rambam, the Gemara in ערכין, and Yechezkel’s vision of tribal boundaries, we’re reminded that the geulah isn’t m…
…
continue reading

1
22. From Exile to Aliyah: The Return of the Land-Based Mitzvot
9:10
9:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:10Rav Shlomo takes us on a breathtaking historical sweep of the mitzvos that only come alive in Eretz Yisrael. From Yehoshua’s conquest to Ezra’s second sanctification, from exile to return, we trace how mitzvos like Shemitah, Yovel, Terumos and Ma’asros waxed and waned with the presence—or absence—of Am Yisrael in the Land. But the real heart of the…
…
continue reading

1
21. Judges, Justice, and the Sweet Spirit of Torah
7:18
7:18
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:18Now that we’ve mapped the borders, Rav Shlomo brings us into the heart of what it means to live Torah in Eretz Yisrael. Beyond Shemittah and Terumos, there’s a mitzvah that rests on the entire nation: to establish a society guided by Torah justice. But what happens when the most powerful judges can’t say Shema Yisrael? Through a moving reflection o…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo wraps up our deep dive into the גבולות of Eretz Yisrael with a story that’s as hilarious as it is holy—about a בעל תשובה, a chicken parmesan, and a very literal take on the Ramban. But from this “flying mashal,” we soar into something deeper: what it means to keep Torah in the Land versus outside of it, and why mitzvos done here carry a …
…
continue reading

1
19. Drawing the Line: Eastbound Borders and the Promise of the Future
4:50
4:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:50Back east we go, tracing the uncertain outlines of עבר הירדן המזרחי. With love, clarity, and a dash of cartographic chaos, Rav Shlomo Katz explores what happens when the Torah says “from the desert to the river” but leaves the rest to us. Through Rambam’s squared geometry, the conquest of Sichon and Og, and the promise of נהר פרת, we touch the drea…
…
continue reading

1
18. Northbound: Where the Borders Kiss Heaven
4:53
4:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:53Rav Shlomo Katz leads us into the northern edges of the holy land, where the mountains rise and the halachic questions deepen. What and where is הר ההר? How far does the Torah's promise stretch? With ancient maps, differing opinions, and the tension between עולי מצרים and לעתיד לבוא, we journey through the evolving shape of ארץ ישראל. As Rav Shlomo…
…
continue reading

1
17. Where Is the South?: Mapping the Mitzvah
9:17
9:17
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
9:17From the wars of Sihon and Og to modern-day Eilat, the southern borders of Eretz Yisrael remain a halachic and historical mystery. Rav Shlomo Katz takes us deep into the confusion around Nachal Mitzrayim, the shifting number of nations to conquer, and the conflicting maps passed down through Torah and tradition. What does all this mean for the mitz…
…
continue reading

1
16. Did Moshe Enter Eretz Yisrael?: The Eastern Border Debate
5:03
5:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
5:03Was Moshe Rabbeinu ever in Eretz Yisrael? It’s not as simple as it sounds. Rav Shlomo Katz explores the spiritual and halachic status of עבר הירדן המזרחי—the eastern side of the Jordan River—conquered before we ever entered the land proper. Can mitzvot tied to the land be fulfilled there? Can you force someone to move from east to west? Why couldn’…
…
continue reading

1
15. Where Does the Mitzvah Apply?: Borders, Footsteps, and Eilat
6:36
6:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:36What defines the halachic borders of Eretz Yisrael—and what happens when our feet tread beyond them? Rav Shlomo Katz opens a deep dive into the tension between the Torah’s promised boundaries and modern questions like the status of Eilat or Yamit. Is every inch we settle inherently a mitzvah, or must the original g’vulot come first? With sources fr…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz reveals a breathtaking halachic truth: in Eretz Yisrael, working the land isn’t just agriculture. It’s divine service. With the Chasam Sofer as a guide, we learn that planting in the Holy Land is itself a fulfillment of the mitzvah of yishuv ha’aretz. From Boaz’s threshing floor to our own hands in the soil, every act of development…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz tackles a painful truth: there is one kind of Lashon Hara that might be worse than speaking badly about another person—speaking negatively about Eretz Yisrael. Through Rav Kook’s writings and the example of Chazal, we explore how the Meraglim’s sin wasn’t just ancient history. It repeats every time we diminish the Land with our word…
…
continue reading

1
12. Is There a Mitzvah to Love Eretz Yisrael?
3:48
3:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:48Beyond halachic obligation, does the Torah command us to love the Land? Rav Shlomo Katz brings down a striking Rambam in Hilchot Melachim and a teaching from Rav Eliezer Melamed that reframes everything: when Chazal kissed its stones and rolled in its dust, it wasn’t poetic symbolism. It was halacha. If the Rambam records this in Mishneh Torah, the…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz continues exploring the modern implications of the mitzvah of living in Eretz Yisrael—this time focusing on the halachic and spiritual weight of leaving. Whether it’s a short family vacation or a necessary journey, halacha permits it—but what’s the internal consciousness we carry? Quoting the Rambam, Rav Goren, and contemporary posk…
…
continue reading

1
10. Is Just “Owning” in Eretz Yisrael Enough?
6:32
6:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:32Rav Shlomo Katz opens up a charged halachic question: Is the mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisrael fulfilled by owning a home here, or does the Torah demand constant physical presence in the Land? We explore the Rambam's rulings, the Gemara in Avodah Zarah, and modern questions of travel, shidduchim, parnassah, and Torah learning. What counted as a heter…
…
continue reading

1
9. What If Your Parents Say “Don’t Make Aliyah”?
4:42
4:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
4:42A sensitive and common question meets the clarity of halacha: When parents object to a child’s desire to move to Eretz Yisrael, what does Torah say? Rav Shlomo Katz dives deep into the rulings of the Shulchan Aruch, the Rambam, and the Ramban to show why living in the Land is a mitzvah that even parental wishes cannot override. With compassion and …
…
continue reading

1
8. Can You Be Halachically Forced to Move to Eretz Yisrael?
3:00
3:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
3:00Rav Shlomo Katz brings a halacha from Even HaEzer that might surprise you: when a couple disagrees about making aliyah, the side refusing to move could lose their halachic standing. Based on the Gemara in Ketubot, we explore powerful rulings that prioritize living in Eretz Yisrael—even over major marital contracts. Whether moving from chutz la’aret…
…
continue reading

1
7. Sovereignty vs. Presence: What Counts as Building the Land?
8:54
8:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
8:54Rav Shlomo Katz explores one of the most misunderstood aspects of Yishuv Eretz Yisrael: the difference between Jews merely living in the Land, and actual sovereignty over it. Drawing on the halachic writings of the Beit Yosef and the Bach, we learn that the mitzvah klalit—national fulfillment—requires Jewish control, not just Jewish presence. Even …
…
continue reading

1
6. Is Risking Your Life for Eretz Yisrael a Mitzvah?
6:09
6:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:09Rav Shlomo Katz delves into the deep halachic question: does conquering and settling the Land of Israel override pikuach nefesh—the Torah’s command to preserve life? Through the teachings of Rav Kook, Rav Goren, and the Minchat Chinuch, we discover that Yishuv Eretz Yisrael is a klal Yisraeli mitzvah, one that may require mesirut nefesh when it com…
…
continue reading

1
5. Is Living in Israel a Requirement or Just a Bonus?
7:28
7:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:28Rav Shlomo Katz unpacks a key question: is living in Eretz Yisrael optional, or an actual obligation? We explore the difference between a mitzvah you fulfill by living here (kiyumit) versus a mitzvah you’re obligated to fulfill (chiyuvit). With halachic sources from the Gemara, the Rambam, and the Tosefta, we learn that dwelling in the Land isn’t j…
…
continue reading
Rav Shlomo Katz shares how the pasuk “Ufaratzta Yama Vakeidma…” teaches us that the mitzvah of Yishuv Eretz Yisrael starts from Yerushalayim and spreads outward. Drawing from Rav Melamed and the vision of Yaakov Avinu, we explore how settling desolate areas—especially near the heart of the land—is a direct fulfillment of the Torah’s call. Even toda…
…
continue reading

1
3. Can You Buy a House in Israel on Shabbat?
6:48
6:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:48Rav Shlomo Katz introduces the powerful teachings of Rav Tzvi Yehuda Kook zt”l, who helped shape modern halachic understanding of settling the land of Israel. We explore a fascinating halacha: Chazal allowed certain Shabbat laws to be pushed aside in order to buy land in Eretz Yisrael from non-Jews. Why? Because the mitzvah of Yishuv Ha’aretz is so…
…
continue reading

1
2. Why Didn’t the Rambam Count Living in Israel as a Mitzvah?
6:32
6:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
6:32Rav Shlomo Katz explores the famous question: why didn’t the Rambam include Yishuv Eretz Yisrael in his list of 613 mitzvot? We dive into the Rambam’s view that living in Israel is a foundational principle—a mitzvah that holds up the rest of Torah, even if it’s not listed like Shabbat or kashrut. Through insights from Rav Teichtal and Rav Rabinovit…
…
continue reading