Daily Jewish Thought

Rabbi@JewishNDG.com (Rabbi Yisroel Bernath)

Thoughts on spirituality, Kabbalah, Jewish thought, Judaism and Relationships. Rabbi Yisroel Bernath is the Senior Rabbi at Rohr Chabad of NDG and the Jewish Chaplain at Concordia University in Montreal, Canada. Cherished for his incredible warmth and non-judgmental personality, this hipster is not your typical rabbi. In 2012, Rabbi Bernath founded the smashing success JMatchmaking International, a network of Jewish dating sites. He has made 104 matches (that he knows of) to date! In addition to being a matchmaker and dating coach, Rabbi Bernath is also the author of three books, and continuously produces engaging content on his many social media & podcast platforms. As a professional voice-over artist, screen-writer, and actor, he has been a part of dozens of productions, including the hit CBC Documentary "Kosher Love". read less
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Episodes

Holiness in the Ordinary: How Abraham's Hospitality Transformed the Spiritual | Rabbi Bernath's Sermon for Parshat Vayeira
1w ago
Holiness in the Ordinary: How Abraham's Hospitality Transformed the Spiritual | Rabbi Bernath's Sermon for Parshat Vayeira
Send us a textThis week's Torah portion, Vayeira, captures the surprising encounter between Abraham and three angelic visitors. Expecting divine revelations, the angels instead find Abraham busy with hospitality — preparing food, fetching water, and overseeing their comfort. They question, “Where is Sarah your wife?” seeking a glimpse of the true tzaddik, only to find that her holiness, too, is concealed within the humble details of life. Through Abraham's actions, the angels learn that genuine holiness is not in escaping earthly concerns, but in bringing light to them. Abraham demonstrates that true spirituality is about bringing heaven into the everyday, a mission passed down through his descendants.Key Takeaways:Spiritual Greatness in the Mundane: Abraham’s greatness is revealed not in miraculous acts but in his devoted, everyday service to others, emphasizing that holiness is found within the ordinary moments.The Tzaddik’s Mission: Abraham’s role as a tzaddik teaches us that spiritual leaders embody selflessness, focusing on the needs of others as a path to divine connection.True Hospitality as Divine Work: By hosting the angels, Abraham exemplifies how simple acts of kindness can elevate humanity above even angelic beings.Bringing Heaven Down to Earth: The narrative illustrates that our purpose is not to transcend the physical but to infuse it with sacredness, creating a “home for G-d” here on earth.Holiness Concealed and Revealed: Abraham and Sarah’s roles demonstrate that true spiritual power may often be hidden, discovered in moments of kindness and commitment, rather than in overt displays of sanctity.#Torah #TorahPortion #Bible #Abraham #Holiness #Spirituality #Judaism #Jewish #JewishHistory #BibleStudy Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
Abraham, the Palace in Flames, and Judaism’s Call to Action
Nov 7 2024
Abraham, the Palace in Flames, and Judaism’s Call to Action
Send us a textThis week, Rabbi Bernath's sermon delves into the profound moment in this week's Torah portion when G-d calls Abraham to leave everything familiar and embark on a journey that would define not only his own life but the life of humanity. The Midrash’s metaphor of a palace in flames becomes the key image for Abraham's—and ultimately all of Judaism's—mission. Abraham's journey begins with a cry to G-d, asking why a beautiful world, brimming with order and wonder, is engulfed in suffering and strife. G-d’s response, “I am the ruler of the palace,” calls Abraham, and all of us, to act as His partners in repairing the world. Through G-d’s implicit challenge, Abraham learned—and taught—the lesson at the heart of Judaism: that we are tasked with extinguishing the flames of injustice and bringing G-d’s presence into our world.  Takeaways: 1. Humanity's Responsibility: Judaism teaches that we are responsible for the world, called upon to combat injustice and protect life, not simply to observe the beauty or lament the flames. 2. The Power of Moral Courage: True goodness demands moral courage, the bravery to condemn evil unequivocally and protect the innocent. Abraham’s journey ignites the mission of Judaism: to oppose wrongdoing without compromise. 3. Rejecting Passivity: The Midrash urges us to reject passivity in the face of evil. Like Abraham, we are called to ask tough questions of ourselves and society and to lead by example, striving toward a world of compassion and righteousness. 4. Redefining Leadership and Society: In choosing leaders and guiding our own lives, we must seek those who recognize the importance of standing up against those who “set fire to the palace,” those willing to uphold justice and moral clarity. 5. Partnership with G-d: The true beginning of the Jewish faith is the realization that we are G-d’s partners in creation, called to infuse holiness into the world by actively pursuing justice, kindness, and integrity.  #Judaism #Torah #Bible #LechLecha #TorahPortion #TorahLessons #Abraham #MoralResponsibility #TikkunOlam #Leadership #Avraham #chabad #DvarTorah #Sermon   Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
The Unsung Hero: The Ordinary Greatness of Noah
Nov 1 2024
The Unsung Hero: The Ordinary Greatness of Noah
Send us a textIn this sermon, we delve into the story of Noah, exploring why the Talmud's mixed views on his righteousness matter. Noah is often compared unfavorably to figures like Abraham, leading to questions about why the sages seemed to minimize his virtue. However, this nuanced approach reveals Noah as a powerful role model for the everyday person. Despite being an ordinary man, not a towering spiritual giant, Noah’s steadfastness in a world of corruption proves that even those who struggle with doubt and imperfection can transform the world through acts of courage and goodness.Key Takeaways:1. Embrace Imperfection: Noah’s story teaches that one doesn’t need to be extraordinary to make a significant impact. Even flawed individuals can change the course of history.2. Moral Courage Amidst Corruption: Standing firm in one’s values, even when surrounded by moral decay, is heroic. Noah’s courage to be different saved humanity.3. Value of Struggle: True greatness is not in perfection but in resilience and choosing righteousness despite challenges and doubts.4. Small Acts, Big Impact: Like Noah, each of us has the power to build “arks” of kindness and sanity in a tumultuous world. Your efforts, however small they may seem, can make a difference.#Torah #Bible #Noah #TorahPortion #Faith #Judaism #Jewish #Sermon #DvarTorah #Courage #imperfection #TorahLessons #personalgrowth #kindness #struggle #ordinarygreatness Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
The Tower of Babel: Embracing Divine Diversity and Purpose | A Special Lecture for Parshat Noach
Oct 31 2024
The Tower of Babel: Embracing Divine Diversity and Purpose | A Special Lecture for Parshat Noach
Send us a textIn the aftermath of the Great Flood, humanity united in the Valley of Shinar to construct the Tower of Babel—a symbol of ambition and defiance. The story reveals three driving philosophies behind the Tower: rebellion against G-d, forced homogeneity, and misguided rationalism. While one idea was burnt away, another buried but recurrent, the last still towers today in subtle denial of divine orchestration. The lesson is clear: humanity thrives through embracing diversity, acknowledging divine orchestration, and building not to rival heaven but to bring heaven down to earth.Key Takeaways:Rebellion Burned Away: The primitive notion of defeating the Divine was extinguished, symbolizing that even skepticism today acknowledges a transcendental Creator.Unity vs. Diversity: Forced homogeneity, though submerged, resurfaces throughout history, proving true unity respects and celebrates diversity.Misguided Rationalism Stands Tall: The persistent belief in randomness over divine providence endures, dulling moral sensitivity and feeding human hubris.The Power of Choice: Life's significance pivots on our choices—to see the world as a series of random events or as an intentional, divine masterpiece.#Bible #Torah #Jewish #Judaism #TowerofBabel #JewishHistory #Sermon #Unity #diversity #DivineUnity #divinepurpose #Faith #science #scienceandfaith Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
Dancing Through Darkness: Unity and Resilience on Simchat Torah
Oct 22 2024
Dancing Through Darkness: Unity and Resilience on Simchat Torah
Send us a textIn this poignant story, Rabbi Bernath reflects on the profound significance of Simchat Torah amidst the backdrop of recent tragedies, particularly the events of October 7th. Drawing from historical narratives, including the inspiring actions of Rabbi Frankel in 1942, he emphasizes the enduring Jewish spirit of resilience and solidarity. As communities around the world prepare to celebrate the completion of the Torah reading cycle, Rabbi Bernath invites listeners to honor the memory of those who cannot dance with us, reminding us of our shared responsibility and unity as a people. This episode serves as a heartfelt call to action, encouraging all Jews to dance for their brethren and embrace the light of hope and redemption.Key Takeaways:Historical Context: Learn about the origins of hakafot shniyot, a tradition born from despair yet filled with hope and solidarity.Unity in Diversity: Understand the importance of Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh Bazeh—every Jew is responsible for one another, especially in times of hardship.Resilience Through Adversity: Discover how the Jewish community has historically celebrated joy and unity, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.Faith and Hope: Embrace the message of unwavering faith in the coming of Moshiach and the promise of redemption, symbolized through dance and celebration.#SimchatTorah #Reslience #unity #RabbiFrankel #107 #October7 #hope #faith #Hakafot #HakafotShniyotSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
The ‘Even If’ Principle: A New Approach to Life | Rabbi Bernath’s Neilah Sermon 5785 - 2024
Oct 13 2024
The ‘Even If’ Principle: A New Approach to Life | Rabbi Bernath’s Neilah Sermon 5785 - 2024
Send us a textAs the gates of Yom Kippur draw to a close, Rabbi Bernath calls us to embrace the profound and unwavering strength of the “Even If” mindset—a faith, love, and joy that endure beyond ideal conditions. Drawing on the story of Chananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, who faced the Babylonian furnace with unyielding courage, Rabbi Bernath parallels this with modern-day heroes who embody this same resilient spirit. Through stories of extraordinary bravery, he challenges us to live a life defined not by the conditional “If,” but by a steadfast “Even If”—an approach that can transform our relationships, our happiness, and our spiritual commitments as we enter the new year.Key Takeaways:Faith Beyond Conditions: Chananiah, Mishael, and Azariah exemplify an “Even If” faith that does not depend on favorable outcomes. We are called to cultivate a similarly unshakeable commitment to our values, regardless of life’s challenges.Modern Heroes of “Even If”: The recent heroes of Israel, like Oz Davidian, displayed an extraordinary resolve, acting courageously even when circumstances seemed impossible. Their stories inspire us to consider what kind of faith we hold in the face of adversity.The ‘If’ vs. ‘Even If’ Mindset: The conditional “If” mindset limits us, while the “Even If” mindset liberates us to embrace life’s imperfections and challenges with resilience. Whether in our relationships, faith, or personal happiness, “Even If” invites us to live fully and meaningfully.Applying ‘Even If’ to Mitzvot and Life: Rabbi Bernath encourages each of us to commit to a new mitzvah, not when it’s convenient, but even if it seems difficult. By taking on mitzvot and acts of kindness with an “Even If” spirit, we forge a deeper connection to G-d and our community.A Call to Wake Up Even More: Just as Yom Kippur is a time of awakening, Rabbi Bernath invites us to go further, to “wake up even more.” As we enter the new year, this heightened awareness will help us transform not only our lives but also the world around us.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
From Division to Unity: A New Generation of Hope | Rabbi Yisroel Bernath’s Kol Nidrei Sermon 5785-2024
Oct 11 2024
From Division to Unity: A New Generation of Hope | Rabbi Yisroel Bernath’s Kol Nidrei Sermon 5785-2024
Send us a textThis Kol Nidrei sermon reflects on the transformative journey from the days of Golda Meir's tireless efforts to establish the State of Israel to a more personal encounter with Israel’s realities. Rabbi Bernath shares a profound story of unity and resilience—both his own, as a young man in Israel during the Second Intifada, and the collective Jewish response to the recent tragedies of October 7th. The sermon underscores the powerful, unbreakable bond between diaspora Jews and their Israeli brethren. Rabbi Bernath calls upon the Jewish community to seize this moment, to step forward as leaders, and to nurture a shared future rooted in hope, responsibility, and a renewed commitment to Jewish identity. As the torchbearers of today, we must bridge our history with a future of unity, resilience, and optimism.Key Takeaways:The Legacy of Leadership and Courage Golda Meir’s story inspires us to see ourselves as essential actors in the unfolding story of the Jewish people. Her example calls us to step up, embodying her courage and dedication to the survival and flourishing of the Jewish nation.Personal Connection to Israel Rabbi Bernath's firsthand experience in Israel highlights the importance of diaspora Jews feeling a personal, intimate bond with Israel—not as distant observers, but as family united by shared experiences, struggles, and purpose.Rising to the Challenge of a New Era The tragedies of recent events have fostered a new sense of connection between diaspora Jews and Israelis. Now, more than ever, we are called to action—not only through financial support but through an emotional and spiritual commitment to unity.A Call to Action for the Jewish Community Each member of the community has a role to play. We must not remain passive spectators but become active participants in shaping the future of the Jewish people. The sermon urges us to step forward, embrace our Jewish identity, and contribute to a thriving and unified global Jewish community.Embracing Optimism and Hope for the Future Despite the darkness we face, our response should be one of hope and joy. Rabbi Bernath calls us to imagine a future filled with resilience, where Jewish unity is our strength, and our communities are places of warmth, vibrancy, and growth.#YomKippur #KolNidrei #Israel #IDasporaJews #Jewish #JewishIdentity #JewishHistory #Jewishfuture Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
Rabbi Bernath's Five Strategies to Help You Forgive Anyone
Oct 10 2024
Rabbi Bernath's Five Strategies to Help You Forgive Anyone
Send us a textThe weight of this year has been felt deeply by each of us. The challenges faced and the moments of introspection have led us on a quest for clarity, seeking ways to mend our hearts and those of the people around us. At the crossroads of introspection, we often ask: How do we truly forgive? What lessons are we meant to take forward, and what burdens should we lay down?We invite you to embark on a profound exploration with Rabbi Yisroel Bernath. Dive deep into the timeless wisdom and teachings on forgiveness, self-love, and the transformative power of the High Holidays.Event Highlights:Finding Meaning in Struggle: Deciphering the lessons of this challenging year and understanding its greater purpose in our lives.The Art of Letting Go: Tools and teachings on how to release pain, forgive others, and most importantly, forgive ourselves.Embracing Love: Cultivating self-love and extending that love to others.The Secrets of Healing: Learn simple, yet powerful techniques to promote healing for yourself and others as we welcome the new year.Who do we offer our forgiveness to, and how do we seek it in return? Join us for this transformative experience as Rabbi Bernath sheds light on these questions and guides us on a journey of renewal, understanding, and hope.Come with an open heart and leave with a spirit renewed. We look forward to welcoming you to this special gathering.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
Signs from Above: A Mezuzah, Unity, and Miracles in the Face of Adversity | Rabbi Bernath’s Sermon for the 2nd Day of Rosh Hashana
Oct 8 2024
Signs from Above: A Mezuzah, Unity, and Miracles in the Face of Adversity | Rabbi Bernath’s Sermon for the 2nd Day of Rosh Hashana
Send us a textIn this moving sermon, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath reflects on a difficult year marked by ongoing challenges, uncertainty, and moments that tested the resolve of the Jewish people. He explores how G-d communicates with us in times of crisis, often through unexpected messengers. Rabbi Bernath introduces the story of Patricia Heaton, a Hollywood actress and devoted supporter of Israel, who recently launched a campaign encouraging non-Jews to show solidarity by putting up a mezuzah. This initiative echoes the Mezuzah Campaign launched by the Rebbe decades ago, emphasizing the mezuzah’s power as a source of protection and unity. Rabbi Bernath shares inspiring Talmudic stories and teachings, encouraging his congregation to renew their commitment to this mitzvah, spread its message, and recognize the mezuzah as a tangible link to G-d’s protection.Key Takeaways:The Power of the Mezuzah: As a mitzvah given uniquely to the Jewish people, the mezuzah is a spiritual guardian that protects not only individuals but also entire communities. In times of crisis, it’s a reminder of G-d’s presence and protection.Signs in Unlikely Places: We may not have prophets today, but G-d still sends us messages. Patricia Heaton’s campaign to encourage the mezuzah’s presence in homes worldwide is a powerful reminder of the mezuzah’s value and a call to deepen our own commitment to this mitzvah.Unity Beyond Borders: The mezuzah campaign reflects the unity that transcends religious and cultural boundaries. Non-Jews joining in support of Israel and displaying the mezuzah symbolizes shared humanity, solidarity, and the need to stand together against rising anti-Semitism.Responding with Action: Each person can play a role in spreading the mitzvah of mezuzah. Whether adding mezuzahs to their own doors, gifting them to others, or simply raising awareness, every action contributes to a collective spiritual shield.Miracles in the Modern Day: Just as Artaban in the Talmud discovered the mezuzah’s protection, we too can see miracles when we embrace mitzvot with faith. As challenges arise, the mezuzah reminds us that G-d’s protection is unwavering, even in the darkest of times.#Israel #RoshHashanah #Mezuzah #PatriciaHeaton #Unity #mitzvah #Rebbe #chabad #Judaism #Rabbi #Sermon Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi
October 7th | We Will Never Forget | Rabbi Bernath’s Sermon for the 1st Day of Rosh Hashana
Oct 7 2024
October 7th | We Will Never Forget | Rabbi Bernath’s Sermon for the 1st Day of Rosh Hashana
Send us a textIn this year’s Rosh Hashanah sermon, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath addresses the profound impact of last October’s events, emphasizing the collective trauma and unity that emerged in the Jewish community. He reflects on how this tragedy forced the Jewish people to confront their shared identity and essence. Despite differences in ideology, last year’s adversity brought a glimpse into the unity that binds the Jewish people at their core. Rabbi Bernath urges the community to actively sustain this unity—not just instinctively, but consciously, each day. He shares stories and teachings illustrating the importance of maintaining unity, tapping into our core truths, and reconnecting with our infinite light. Through deliberate effort, we must continue to live by our collective truth and open the doors to unity, strength, and peace for the year ahead.Key Takeaways:Unity from Tragedy: October 7th changed the Jewish world forever. The tragedy united Jews worldwide, transcending ideologies and backgrounds, and revealed a deeper connection rooted in our shared essence.Conscious Effort for Lasting Unity: Rabbi Bernath reminds us that while unity came instinctively after October 7th, it is up to us to maintain it. If unity does not naturally arise, we must "open it ourselves" with our own hands, ensuring it endures as part of our daily lives.Lessons from the Rebbe: By sharing the story of Eliyahu Amikam and Meir Vilner, Rabbi Bernath emphasizes that every Jew, regardless of outward beliefs, harbors an inner core that connects them to G-d and the Jewish people. This core truth is what binds us and calls us to unity.Remembering October 7th: Rabbi Bernath stresses the importance of keeping the memory of October 7th fresh, using it as a reminder to continue living with a heightened sense of unity, purpose, and connection to one another and G-d.Our Responsibility: Like the young man with the tulips, if unity does not manifest naturally, we must take action to bring it forth. It is within our power to foster this connection, and with G-d's help, we can transform pain into strength and division into unity.A Year of Strength and Peace: In concluding, Rabbi Bernath prays for a year filled with security, peace, and revealed goodness, urging the Jewish people to stand united, channeling their core strength and unity toward collective prosperity and blessing.Keywords:Rosh Hashanah, unity, Jewish identity, October 7th, collective memory, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath, shared essence, Am Yisrael Chai, infinite light, Jewish unity, conscious unity, G-d's blessing, year of peace, lasting connection, Jewish resilience.Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath’s work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi