In this episode, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion "Lech Lecha" from Genesis 12, which introduces Abraham. Unlike Noah, Abraham's background and reasons for God's favor are minimally detailed in the text, though expanded upon in the Midrash.

Rabbi Brackman highlights the theme of journeying in Abraham's life, noting that he embarks on seven distinct journeys—including leaving his homeland at God's command, traveling to Egypt due to famine, and returning to Canaan. These journeys often repeat in the text, prompting deeper examination of subtle differences.

Throughout these travels, Abraham experiences five divine encounters. Initially, God speaks without formal introduction, but later identifies Himself as "the Lord who brought you out of Ur of the Chaldeans" and "El Shaddai." This progression mirrors Abraham's deepening understanding of God through his life's journey. Each encounter reinforces promises about the land of Canaan and Abraham's innumerable descendants, comparing them to the dust of the earth and the stars in the sky.

The episode also explores how Abraham acquires wealth. While Pharaoh gives him livestock and servants in Egypt, Abraham returns to Canaan rich in gold and silver—possibly through trade, although the text is not explicit. This contrasts with a later event where Abraham refuses spoils from the king of Sodom, indicating his complex relationship with wealth and ethical considerations.

Rabbi Brackman reflects on the narrative's seemingly disjointed nature, suggesting it mirrors life's complexities. Abraham's life is filled with challenges—famine, familial strife, moral dilemmas—illustrating that the path to greatness is rarely straightforward. The recurring themes of journeying and divine communication underscore the importance of faith and perseverance. Despite setbacks, Abraham follows God's guidance toward the fulfillment of divine promises.

In conclusion, Rabbi Brackman interprets "Lech Lecha" as a reflection on life's complexities and the importance of steadfast faith. Abraham's experiences teach that while the journey may be fraught with challenges, remaining committed to one's spiritual path leads to fulfillment and the realization of greater promises. The episode invites listeners to embrace life's uncertainties while holding onto guiding principles.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In this episode of "Truth Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the Torah portion of Noah, focusing on scholarly interpretations and anomalies within the biblical narrative of the Flood. He begins by acknowledging that while traditional commentaries often address specific questions, they may not consider the broader inconsistencies that academic biblical scholars highlight.

Rabbi Brackman notes that scholars point out anomalies suggesting the presence of two distinct flood narratives merged into one. Examples include discrepancies in the number of animals taken into the ark—sometimes mentioned as pairs of two, other times as groups of seven—and variations in the duration of the flood. Additionally, the use of different names for God ("Yud-Key-Vav-Key" or the Tetragrammaton, and "Elohim") in different sections supports this theory.

He delves into the textual analysis, emphasizing that in one account, God observes the wickedness of humanity and regrets creating man, deciding to erase mankind from the earth. In this version, the focus is on the evil inclinations of humans. In the other account, God notices the corruption of the earth itself due to all flesh being corrupted, including animals. Here, God plans to destroy the earth to eliminate this widespread corruption.

A pivotal point in the narrative is when Noah finds favor in the eyes of God. Rabbi Brackman highlights that this single righteous individual changes God's approach. Instead of destroying all of humanity, God decides to save Noah and his family, using them to rebuild after the flood. This shift underscores the impact one good person can have on the fate of the world.

Rabbi Brackman concludes by reflecting on the moral lessons of the story. He emphasizes the importance of good people standing up and being counted, as their righteousness can make the human endeavor worthwhile. The narrative teaches that the presence of even a single virtuous person can sway divine judgment and offers hope for humanity's potential for goodness.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In his podcast on the Torah portion of Bereshit (Genesis), Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores a lesser-known aspect of the creation narratives. He examines Genesis 1:26-27, where God says, "Let us make human in our image, according to our likeness," and notes that God created humans "male and female." This suggests both genders were created simultaneously in God's image, raising questions about the nature of God and gender equality in the divine plan.

Moving to Genesis chapter 2, Rabbi Brackman highlights a different sequence. Here, God forms man from dust and breathes life into him. Seeing that "it is not good for man to be alone," God decides to create a helper. After Adam names all the animals but finds no suitable companion, God causes a deep sleep, takes one of his sides (often translated as "ribs"), and fashions it into a woman. Adam declares her "bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh," implying woman is derived from man and may not share the divine image in the same way.

Rabbi Brackman notes the anomaly between the two chapters: the first depicts man and woman created together in God's image, while the second portrays woman as an afterthought to alleviate man's loneliness. This raises the question of whether the divine image includes both genders or is initially solely male.

Setting aside critical theories like the Documentary Hypothesis, he delves into Genesis 6:1-4, where the "sons of God" see that the daughters of humans are beautiful and take them as wives. This introduces the mysterious "sons of God" (b'nei elohim) and the "Nephilim" or "fallen ones."

Traditional commentaries like Rashi interpret the "sons of God" as powerful human leaders abusing authority. However, Rabbi Brackman explores a Midrashic interpretation, supported by Ramban and hinted at by Maimonides, identifying the "sons of God" as angels attracted to human women. Without female counterparts in heaven, these angels descend, assume physical forms, and marry human women.

Their union results in the Nephilim, "mighty men of old, men of renown," with extraordinary abilities due to their mixed heritage. Their existence increases wickedness on earth. Concerned, God limits human lifespan to 120 years to curb their influence.

Rabbi Brackman observes that God limiting human power recurs in Genesis, such as expelling Adam and Eve to prevent immortality. Despite the Flood intended to cleanse corruption, some beings like Og, "the refugee from the flood," survive. Their descendants become formidable inhabitants of the land destined for Israel.

When the Israelites approach the Promised Land, spies report encountering giants descended from the Nephilim. Overwhelmed, they feel like grasshoppers, leading to hesitation and disobedience.

Rabbi Brackman suggests that part of the Israelites' mission is to eliminate these angel-human hybrids posing moral and spiritual threats. Confronting them is daunting but necessary to restore balance.

He acknowledges this interpretation raises complex theological issues about angels, the divine image, and women's role. The idea of angels cohabiting with humans challenges traditional views of spiritual beings.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portions of Vayelech and Ha'azinu from the Book of Deuteronomy. He explores the contrasting depictions of God's reaction when the Israelites abandon Him to follow other gods.

In Vayelech (Deuteronomy 31:16-18), God informs Moses that after his death, the Israelites will stray by worshiping foreign gods native to the land they inhabit. God's response is to "hide His face," symbolizing a withdrawal of divine protection. This passive stance means that without God's safeguarding presence, the Israelites become vulnerable to misfortunes and adversities that naturally befall them.

Conversely, Ha'azinu (Deuteronomy 32:15-25) presents a more active form of divine retribution. Here, God is depicted as directly inflicting punishment upon the Israelites for their unfaithfulness, including calamities and suffering. This portrayal underscores a God who not only withdraws protection but also initiates corrective actions against the people.

Brackman compares these two models of divine response to authority figures: one who withdraws protection, allowing consequences to unfold, and another who actively enforces discipline. He suggests that these differing perspectives might reflect the viewpoint of God versus the experience of the Israelites. From God's perspective, stepping back allows natural consequences, while from the people's perspective, it feels like active punishment.

He further discusses the theological implications of these narratives, especially in the context of contemporary events. Brackman reflects on the idea that serving God extends beyond worship and rituals; it encompasses adhering to the moral and ethical laws outlined in the Torah. He emphasizes that true devotion to the God of Israel involves embodying values such as holiness, compassion, justice, and mercy.

Brackman concludes by urging the Jewish people to internalize and practice these ethical principles. He highlights that maintaining God's protection is intrinsically linked to living a life aligned with divine morals and ethics. By doing so, the Israelites can ensure that God's face continues to shine upon them, as expressed in the Priestly Blessing, fostering a continual divine presence and favor.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In this episode of "Truths Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Rabbi D Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Nitzavim, found in Deuteronomy chapters 29 and 30. He explores the profound themes of covenant, blessings, and curses that define the relationship between God and the Israelites.

Brackman begins by discussing the covenant as a double-edged sword: adherence brings blessings and prosperity, while abandonment leads to severe curses and exile from the Promised Land. He highlights the Hebrew terms used for "curse," particularly "alah," which also means "oath," emphasizing that the curses are part of a divine oath linked to the covenant.

He examines the text's transition from individual responsibility to collective consequence. An individual might think they can escape the repercussions of breaking the covenant, but the text warns that both individuals and entire tribes will face God's wrath if they turn away. Brackman notes textual anomalies, such as Moses referring to "this book," suggesting the possibility of retrospective authorship and adding layers of interpretation.

Drawing parallels to William Strauss and Neil Howe's generational theory from their book "The Fourth Turning," Brackman connects the Israelites' experiences to cycles of societal change: high, awakening, unraveling, and crisis. He suggests that the Torah anticipates these cycles and offers a means to break them by choosing life and adhering to God's commandments.

He emphasizes that choosing life and maintaining the covenant isn't an unattainable goal—it's accessible and within reach. By upholding strong institutions and remembering the lessons of history, the Israelites—and by extension, all people—can avoid the destructive cycles that lead to crisis.

Brackman extends this message to the modern context, noting that while some believe society is inevitably headed toward a crisis, the teachings in the Torah portion of Nitzavim offer hope. They remind us that it's within our power to choose a different path by consciously opting for life, blessings, and adherence to enduring values.

He concludes by affirming the timeless relevance of this wisdom, encouraging listeners to "choose life" so that they and future generations may live meaningfully and avoid repeating past mistakes.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Ki Tavo (Deuteronomy 26) to explore the mitzvah of Bikkurim—the offering of the first fruits—and its profound implications for our understanding of gratitude, responsibility, and continuous renewal.

Discover how the ancient practice of Bikkurim embodies a "Day One" mindset—a concept popularized by Jeff Bezos but deeply rooted in the Torah long before. By examining the unique declaration made during the Bikkurim ritual, Levi highlights the Israelites' journey from oppression in Egypt to prosperity in the Promised Land, emphasizing the reciprocal covenant between God and His people.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Ritual of Bikkurim: Understanding the historical declaration in Deuteronomy 26:5-10 and its significance.
• Contrasting Declarations: Comparing the Bikkurim declaration with the tithing declaration in Deuteronomy 26:12-15.
• Centrality of the Land of Israel: Exploring the importance of the land in Jewish identity and faith.
• The 'Day One' Mindset: How the annual offering of first fruits teaches continuous gratitude and humility.
• The Covenantal Relationship: The two-way commitment between God and the Israelites, emphasizing both divine blessings and human responsibilities.
• The Virtuous Cycle of Blessing: How gratitude and adherence to commandments create a sustaining cycle of prosperity and spiritual fulfillment.

Levi connects these ancient teachings to modern life, illustrating how the principles found in the Torah offer timeless wisdom that predates and enriches contemporary philosophies like those of Bezos.

Join the Conversation:

If you found this episode insightful, please like, share, and subscribe! Leave your thoughts in the comments below—how do you incorporate a "Day One" mindset in your daily life?

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the Torah portion of Ki Teitzei, focusing on its complex laws regarding marriage and divorce. He examines how these ancient texts can be interpreted to align with modern ethical standards. Brackman discusses a case where a man falsely accuses his wife of not being a virgin, leading to intricate legal and moral questions. He highlights the role of the Talmud and rabbinic interpretations in ensuring fairness, particularly for women, through the concept of "ethical corrective." This approach allows for a more equitable application of the law. The episode also delves into the debate between literal and rabbinic readings of the Torah, illustrating how interpretations can vary. Brackman emphasizes the adaptability of Jewish law and its focus on peace, inviting listeners to reflect on the balance between tradition and modernity.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.

In this episode of Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today, Levi Brackman delves into the topic of false prophets as presented in two Torah portions, Re'eh and Shoftim, from Deuteronomy. He begins by exploring why the Torah addresses false prophets in two separate sections (Chapters 13 and 18) rather than consolidating them into one. Through his analysis, Levi concludes that these two sections represent different contexts that justify their separation.

Chapter 13 emphasizes that the Torah is immutable, meaning no prophet can add to or take away from it. Any prophet who attempts to introduce new laws or encourage following other gods is a false prophet, and the Torah is clear that it remains unchangeable for all time.

Chapter 18, on the other hand, warns against practices like sorcery and divination, which were common among non-Israelite nations. Instead, God communicated through a prophet from among the Israelites. This prophet would guide in areas not explicitly covered by the Torah, such as whether to go to war, and his legitimacy would be confirmed if his predictions came true.

Levi further discusses the role of a true prophet as both a spiritual leader and a guide for the nation in uncertain times. He also addresses the implications of these teachings for modern-day beliefs, particularly how they negate the possibility of new prophets altering the Torah and challenging certain Christian beliefs that involve adding to the Torah.

In conclusion, Levi ties together the lessons from both chapters, emphasizing that the Torah remains unchanged, and any prophet attempting to modify it is false. The role of the prophet, he suggests, is to guide people in following the existing Torah and offer direction in ambiguous matters, providing a sense of guidance and support in uncertain times.

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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.