Ep. 511: Enlisting in the IDF How should we defend ourselves from antisemitic attacks?

MyLife: Chassidus Applied

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics:
What does the month of Elul teach us today?

• How Elul empowers us with strength in threatening times?
• Which names describe the month of Elul?
• What is the meaning of the “king is in the field”?
• What specific things should we be doing during this month?
• What unique power and energy does this month have?
• What is its historical background?
• 60 Days: A Spiritual Guide to the High Holidays
• Is this month an opportune time for receiving blessings to have children?
• What can prospective parents do during this time to manifest these blessings?
• How is this month connected with the geulah?
• Who initiates the effort in this month – we or G-d?
• What is the meaning of ani l’dodi v’dodi li?
• What responsibility do we have in these times of challenge and war?
• Would it be wrong and considered a lack of emunah to move into a bunker for the next few years and come out after the wars end?
• After the great divine revelation at Sinai how could the people commit the worst sin of idolatry?
• Should we be concerned that the revelation of Moshiach could also bring such a downfall?

• What is the practical application of appointing judges and law enforcers?
• What is its connection to Elul?
• Are we allowed to cut down fruit bearing trees in Gaza?
• Are we allowed to use mediums to foresee the future?
• What then was the function of the urim v'tumim?

• Should anyone be exempt from joining the military?
• Do the reservists have the right to not return to battle?
• Is there any justification for Charedim not participating in the war?

• Should we carry guns?

• Who should we vote for?

• What can I do about my husband being consumed by football?
• What are our priorities in life?
• How does that impact our children?

What do we learn from Parshas Shoftim? Enlisting in the IDF How should we defend ourselves from antisemitic attacks? Presidential Election What should our attitude to sports be?