Lectures

Mendel was just seven years old when his father suddenly passed away, leaving behind four orphans. The Rebbe took a unique interest in the Scharf children, showering them with attention, love, and paternal concern – which we can all learn from. Watch Rabbi Scharf share his story, and the lessons and inspiration he continues to carry with him more than 30 years later.

A lecture by author of Letters for Life, who will share practical advice based on the Rebbe's counsel for emotional wellbeing.

Powerful Torah tools for strengthening marital relations, fortifying emotional fidelity, refining communication skills and strengthening mutual respect and acceptance.

We’ve heard a lot about a match made in heaven, but what are the real ingredients for a healthy and happy marriage?

Joy, optimism and faith are integral to overcoming challenges in life. Discover how our perspectives actually create and shape our realities.

How the Jewish people, and particularly Jewish women, have been experts in maintaining our spiritual identity even in foreign soils.

The paradox: while G-d is absolutely One, He nevertheless has an overwhelming desire to engage in a relationship with mankind. Understanding this paradox is at the root of free choice and human responsibility, and is the key to healthy marriages that last a lifetime.

The son of a decorated German officer, Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger was forced at a young age to confront his father’s unbroken allegiance to the Nazis. His journey ultimately led him to convert to Judaism and serve in the Israel Defense Forces. (Filmed at Chabad of the Upper East Side, NYC)

Koby Mandell was just thirteen on May 8, 2001, when he and his friend cut school to go hiking. Their bodies were found the next day. The boys had been brutally stoned to death in a cave in the heart of the Judean desert. Koby’s mom, Sherri Mandell, shares her emotional story of hope and faith.

Speech is what defines us as human beings. How we speak determines the type of human beings that we are. This class demonstrates how to properly communicate feelings of need, hurt and criticism in a constructive and loving manner based on a five-step process according to Chassidic and Kabbalistic philosophy.

Educating one’s child is the focal point of being a mother or father. Learn how the Torah guides us in this most rewarding yet incredibly difficult task.

Is there a difference between Jews just "being" chosen as opposed to actually "knowing" that they were chosen?

Understanding the difference between “living” and “existing” helps us understand why it’s sometimes so hard to like the people you love.

Frumma Rosenberg-Gottlieb shares the story of her personal spiritual journey and speaks about how we can know when we've found what we're really looking for.

Author Doron Kornbluth, who spent over three years studying the subject, talks about the reasons some people choose cremation, and explains why throughout history Judaism and Jews have insisted on burial.

Frumma Rosenberg-Gottlieb discusses her background as a meditator, and how she sought an authentic contemplative tradition within Judaism. The session concludes with a practice meditation.

Rabbi Nissen Mangel was a 10-year-old child when he came to the Nazi death camp of Auschwitz. There he witnessed unspeakable atrocities, but he also witnessed amazing acts of faith. In this moving and powerful talk, Rabbi Mangel tells his firsthand account of what he saw. (Many viewers may find details described to be extremely disturbing. Viewer discretion advised.)

What are the key elements to maintaining a strong and loving bond with your spouse?

When may information be shared? When must it be kept private? An overview of the primary sources in Torah, Talmud and Jewish Law governing the rules of confidentiality and privacy.

Maimonides was not only the greatest Torah scholar of his generation, but one of its leading physicians. Maimonides wrote many treatises in how to take care of one's health. But what would Maimonides say about modern medical issues?

Rabbi Simon Jacobson shares his personal reflections on the teachings of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, on the occasion of the anniversary of his passing. (filmed at Chabad of Brooklyn Heights, 6/20/2012)

Professor Alan Dershowitz fields questions on diverse topics ranging from his relationship with the Lubavitcher Rebbe to whether or not international law would permit a preemptive strike against Iran. This Q&A session was filmed at the Chabad House in Miami Beach.

Thoughts on the 200th anniversary of the passing of Chabad's founder, the Alter Rebbe, R' Shneur Zalman of Liadi. What is Chabad? What did the Alter Rebbe accomplish? How can we apply his teachings today?

We may be entitled to our anger, but do we really want it? Practical advice for getting out of the resentment rut.

The first mitzvah given to the Jewish people was to sanctify time. Torah teaches us how to cherish time and make the best possible use of it, by being a “co-creator” who “makes” time for what is important.

Does G-d love us or does He need us? Does He care whether or not we do mitzvot? Is being vulnerable a weakness? Rabbi Friedman tackles these questions and more as he describes the Jewish view of an omnipotent G-d who asks us to serve Him.

The secret that the Torah shares with us about men and women is that they are not brought closer through physical attraction.

A short introduction to Vayikra, the third book of the Torah, which details the various offerings brought in the Holy Temple.

Tips for developing self-esteem, setting boundaries, and establishing morality and responsibility in our kids’ lives.

On the occasion of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s yahrtzeit, Rabbi Yossy Goldman shares the Rebbe’s unique vision of hope.

Introductory remarks by Rabbi Mordechai Einbinder at Chabad of the Valley, commemorating the Rebbe’s 19th Yahrtzeit (anniversary of passing).

Do you sometimes feel overcome with negative emotions when things aren’t right? Discover the Torah’s approach on how to control emotions and react responsibly with emotional maturity, instead of responding from emotional instinct.

Reach greater spiritual heights through pursuing these core Jewish values, ideals and characteristics.

The Holocaust came late to Hungary. But when the Nazis began their gruesome work, they were ruthlessly efficient, and two-thirds of the Jewish population perished at their hands. Leslie Meisels went through hell together with his parents and siblings, but miraculously they survived.

Our perception creates our reality. By being calm, we trust that what is in store for us will be positive, and we become solution-oriented rather than emotion-oriented.

Where psychology has failed, and what is in store for the future. Addressing the challenge of human weakness and guilt, Rabbi Manis Friedman offers a fresh perspective based on the teachings of Tanya (chapter 27).

There’s much more to reality than what meets the eye. Not only does our behavior influence our surroundings, even our thoughts can have a real impact on our environment.

Observing Shabbat offers powerful benefits even on a very pragmatic level. Addressing a visiting group of young adults, Rabbi Lipskar from The Shul of Bal Harbour shares the significance of Shabbat and Jewish identity for a contemporary Jew.

Gain insight into Torah perspectives on life beyond Earth, the ramifications of unimaginable technological advances, and life in the unexplored depths of ourselves, as seen in the works of the great Jewish thinkers from Maimonides to the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Relationships seem to be an enigma. Uncovering the quintessential relationship between G-d and man, which mirrors our very own marriages, sheds light on this most challenging topic.

Can we get older and still be lovable? The Rebbe’s perspective on aging, and tips on how to age gracefully, positively and successfully.

The different spiritual make-up of men and women illuminates their respective roles in a healthy relationship.

Radio host Michael Medved talks about his personal journey in Judaism, the inexplicable phenomenon of Jewish continuity, and the thriving success of Chabad. (Filmed at Chabad of the Valley’s 2013 gala banquet)

Using personal stories, Goldie Plotkin illustrates the special example Jewish mothers set to positively impress our kids through what may seem very small steps.

Tamar Maerim-Yunger describes her personal journey to Torah-true Judaism, and reflects on what covering her hair means to her.

At an evening of tribute for R’ Mordechai Berger of blessed memory, Rabbi Yossi Jacobson reflects on this special individual.

Rabbi Tzvi Freeman presents tried and proven ideas, gimmicks, props and shtick to bring your Seder alive.

A riveting story of courage and survival of the horrors of the Holocaust.

Billionaire philanthropist Lev Leviev speaks about his family's early exposure to Chasidism and how he came to help Jews living in the former Soviet Union.

If we map time, can we tell where it is taking us? The results are just too uncanny to be written off as coincidence.

A stand-up comedian for years, Richard Morris unexpectedly found himself on a path toward Jewish observance. Hear him make you laugh as he shares his fascinating journey with excerpts from his book: “Funny You Should Think about a Return to Judaism.”

A practical and profound approach to health, meant to transform the quality of your life, drawing from the great works of Maimonides.

Contrary to prevailing impressions in many Western societies and cultures, there are essential differences between men and women. Rabbi Forma shares his unique perspective on equality, and argues that when properly understood, it can help make your marriage succeed.

Barbaric Nazis drove her out of hiding while enormous flames engulfed the ghetto as she was shoved onto packed cattle trains. Estelle Laughlin shares her horrific Holocaust story and how she was surrounded by the heroism of special people who kept their hearts and spirit. Despite her ordeal, she asserts, we can find our own light even in the darkest lives.

Join the Jewish community of greater Houston for an evening of inspiration and reflection, marking the twentieth yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory. Presenting a panel discussion exploring the Rebbe’s leadership, led by Dennis Prager in conversation with Rabbi Simon Jacobson, Rabbi Yosef Kantor and Mrs. Miriam Lipskier.

Join the greater Detroit Jewish community for an evening of inspiration and tribute, marking the twentieth yahrtzeit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory. Featured guest speaker: Joe Lieberman.