Chassidus With Rabbi Mendel Kaplan

THE WAKE OF LIGHT is the sixth and final Episode of "MY NAME IS LIGHT," a text-based miniseries focused on the Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5744 (1984). In this concluding segment of this series, we study the last three chapters. It is here that we will reconcile the seemingly glaring inconsistency with the main theme of chapter 14 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below. * After dynamically highlighting several Basi L'Gani themes, the Rebbe goes on to richly illuminate this year's unique teaching about G-d's unchanging creative and animating Lightforce. Then, the Ma'amer begins a journey into terra incognita -- lucidly illustrating what amounts to a startling incongruity in highly disparate Chasidic teachings. In this final Episode, he introduces an elegant reconciliation of both esoteric teachings which are now reframed as interdependent mutually complimentary. Ultimately, the Rebbe reasons, it is not only possible to for these two concepts to co-exist -- but they also actually complete one another! The reconciliation also serves to stir sparks in the sweep of its illuminating new approach. Far beyond compromise, the secret of Light Animation is discovered in the Title Search. Radiant Limitations that would otherwise inhibit [Divine] Light are, in fact transcended by decoding the G-d Given ID to Name the Light! This climatic Episode breaks new ground in its crowning conclusion, as only with spiritual synergy can the creative process be completed. The Ma'amer's end hits high notes on Sparking Redemption and Planting Seeds to energize Exodus -- with the past ordaining the present and our radiant future! This final Episode was sponsored by Jake Hacker & Marla Krybus for the safe release of the Hostages, Amen! _____________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh and creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5784, we are – once again – focused on Chapter Fourteen. As such, the discourses of 5724 (1964) and 5744 (1984) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE is the Fifth Episode of "MY NAME IS LIGHT," the six-part miniseries on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5744 (1984). In this Fifth Episode of this series, we arrive at the main thesis of this unique rumination, an entirely novel idea that springs out of the theme of chapter 14 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below. * Upon the completion of the Ma'amer's opening segue that elucidated several of the cherished Basi L'Gani themes, added much novelty and illumination, we went on complete the introductory portion and clarify the primary thrust of this year's uniquely theme of Light and Power with a new dimension of Vital Animation. In our immediate past a range of esoteric Torah teachings was introduced to elucidate the Secret of Light we learnt about in the First Episode of this series. This Episode break new ground by focusing on Creation in Name, and the accompanying title concealment it brings in tow. This becomes the platform for a seeming contradiction of terms and challenge to the entire thesis itself! Does Adam’s brilliance in identifying quantum spiritual energy within G-d’s Creation eclipse the Divine Creative Light, and do names represent concealment or exposure of existence? Finally, a rose by any other name thickens the plot, and we contemplate the contrast of illumination vs obfuscation, and are forced to ask: will the real animator please rise? _______________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh and creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5784, we are – once again – focused on Chapter Fourteen. As such, the discourses of 5724 (1964) and 5744 (1984) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

SEE THE LIGHT is the Fourth Episode of "MY NAME IS LIGHT," a six-part miniseries on the Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5744 (1984). Episode four of this textually based series continues the general opening and directly leads us into a penetrating analysis and elucidation of chapter 14 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below. * Having completed the careful study of the 5744 Ma'amer's initial segue which featured an important and novel illumination of the opening theme of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710) we now proceed to complete the introductory portion and move into the primary thrust of this year's uniquely themed teaching. In the opening strokes, we review the spiritual lessons of the military-like formation that characterizes the Egyptian Exodus and the illuminated conditions that led to it. Viewing it as instructive and relevant rather than [merely] historic. To be sure, this reframing of our nations birth in dynamic fashion is lifted out of the original Ma'amer, yet here it is expanded and reimagined to elegantly segue into the Ma'amer's main thesis and enabling us to "See the [Divine Creative] Light!" Building on mystical teaching of the Previous Rebbe (in the original Ma’amer's fourteenth chapter) about Light and Power, the Rebbe here widens that gamut of to include a new dimension of Vital Animation as well. The Rebbe draws on a range of esoteric Torah teachings to further clarify and elucidate the Secret of Light we learnt about in the First Episode of this series. This will vastly enhance our previously attained understanding the unchanging Divine light that remains pure and unadulterated in its powerful glow, despite its vivifying animation of the universe! _______________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh and creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5784, we are – once again – focused on Chapter Fourteen. As such, the discourses of 5724 (1964) and 5744 (1984) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

ETERNAL ETHEREAL 2 is the Third Episode of "MY NAME IS LIGHT," a six-part miniseries on the Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5744 (1984). Part three of the textually based series of classes follows the first segment which focused of the study of chapter 14 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below. * In this new Episode we continue to richly develop the first major novelty of the 5744 iteration. Covering Chapter Two of the Ma’amer which follows the unique reframing of the opening theme of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710) which was introduced in the second iteration of the expansive Basi L'Gani series (5731 or 1971 onwards). This paradigm shift introduces an incredible new perspective of the pitfalls of sin and how we view human fallibility. Building on previously introduced profundity, in this Ma'amer we the fresh new dimension of Eternity! This will further illuminate an exciting new appreciation of Teshuva inspired personal and environmental transformation. Recasting the already familiar mystical truism introduced by the Previous Rebbe in the original Ma’amer, the Rebbe richly further elucidates the trademark positively disruptive "Holy Folly" represented in the creation of the Organic Desert Sanctuary. This Episode emphasizes the Eternal Ethereal by its lasting nature, this unique Kabbalistic theology leads towards an exciting perspective of global change we can [and should all] believe in! _______________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh and creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5784, we are – once again – focused on Chapter Fourteen. As such, the discourses of 5724 (1964) and 5744 (1984) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

ETERNAL ETHEREAL 1 is the Second Episode of "MY NAME IS LIGHT," a six-part miniseries on the Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5744 (1984). Part two of the textually based series of classes follows the first segment which focused of the study of chapter 14 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below. * In this Episode we begin the study of the 5744 rumination itself. Covering Chapter One of the Ma’amer which succinctly and uniquely recapitulates primary themes found within the opening chapter of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710) adding a great deal of novelty and nuance. The fresh approach of this Ma'amer revolves around the specific methodology of implementing divine calling to effectuate eternal transformation of terrestrial reality. This is contrasted with the concept of bringing about an evanescent or impermanent impact on created existence. In developing and uniquely applying well-established mystical truisms, the Rebbe richly elucidates ideas introduced by the Previous Rebbe in the original Ma’amer. This Episode, covering the first chapter of Basi L'Gani 5744 has been lovingly dedicated by Michelle Kahn; celebrating the life of her beloved Mother Etel bat Harav Avraham Mendel (z’l), whose Yahrzeit is on Yud Shevat. _______________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh and creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5784, we are – once again – focused on Chapter Fourteen. As such, the discourses of 5724 (1964) and 5744 (1984) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

SECRET OF LIGHT is the First Episode (of Five) and serves as the introduction to the Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5744 (1984), entitled "MY NAME IS LIGHT." The opening offering of these textually based class provides the foundation with the study of chapter 14 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below.* In this Episode the primary focus is on the concept of the immanent and infinite Divine Light that births and sustains all existence. This teaching provides a profound new dimension of comprehension to a subject most often viewed with blind faith rather than in the mind's eye. The result is a fresh intellectual appreciation of our common Creator or the gift of relating to G-d as we can 'understand' Him! In weaving together, amplifying and clarifying a range of Classic and Kabalistic Torah sources, the Previous Rebbe richly elucidates the idea of a "Continuously Creative Illuminative Force" sustaining and energizing every iota of the universe. This chapter of the Ma’amer serves to expose the concept of Creation Ex Nihilo. Yet rather than an academic exercise in mystical theology, it drives us towards the emotive contemplation of the Creative Divine Radiance's unchanging nature. Which then leads to personal change we can believe in! We will be introduced to the distinction between the distinct Divine force of Radiating Power and a Radiant Source. The point will be spelled out in the metaphorical terms of light that remains pure and unadulterated in its powerful glow. The seeming appearance of change or differentiation is merely a symptom of an external screening and diffusion. By studying this chapter of the original Basi L'Gani (5710), the foundation will be set for us to proceed on to the study of Basi L'Gani 5744. _______________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh and creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5784, we are – once again – focused on Chapter Fourteen. As such, the discourses of 5724 (1964) and 5744 (1984) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

’ ’ The Fourth and final part of this special series on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5743 (1983), entitled "BENEATH THE DARKNESS" is called “THE BOOK OF TRANSFORMATIONS.” Seeking resolution to the faith conundrum of Evil's existence, a revolutionary idea on the virtual, yet real-time effect of Torah study is presented . The fourth class of the series (covering chapters seven, eight and nine) concludes the Ma’amer by further developing the primary theme in chapter 13 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below.* In this Episode we are complete the sacred Knowledge is Power paradigm that provides a fresh perspective on Torah study’s impact. The Ma’amer’s crowning conclusion introduces Torah as the ultimate book of transformation. Profound intellectual grasp and personalized knowledge connects us with the ultimate power, enabling us to harness the true force of spirit! This Fourth Episode of the four-part series has been lovingly dedicated by Dr. Martin Kushner and Sharon Adler to elevate the Neshama of Etel Adler, Etel bat Zecharia O.B.M. ______________________________ Playlist link: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4... * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5783, we are – once again – focused on chapter thirteen. As such, the discourses of 5723 (1963) and 5743 (1983) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

’ ’ Part Three of this special series on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5743 (1983), entitled "BENEATH THE DARKNESS" is called “VIRTUAL REVOLUTION.” Seeking resolution to the faith conundrum of Evil's existence, a revolutionary idea on the virtual, yet real-time effect of Torah study is presented . The third class of the series (covering chapters five and six) on the Ma’amer continues to broadly address the primary theme in chapter 13 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below.* In this Episode we are introduced to a sacred Engagement Theory that provides a fresh perspective on Torah study’s impact. Here we will clarify how the conceptual engagement with evil-in-theory actuates a virtual revolution of our world’s natural order and literally neutralizes the forces of darkness to release a higher form of light! The final terms of this remarkable mystical equation provide a deeply insightful solution to the baffling theological challenge made in the previous Episode. ______________________________ Playlist link: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4... * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5783, we are – once again – focused on chapter thirteen. As such, the discourses of 5723 (1963) and 5743 (1983) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

’ ’ Part Two of this special series on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5743 (1983), entitled "BENEATH THE DARKNESS" is called “SANCTIONING EVIL.” We now move into this year’s theme: the Forces of Evil created by G-d, ultimately for a Holy Purpose. Part two (covering chapters three and four) of the Ma’amer begin the focus on chapter 13 of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more details on this, see below.* In this Episode we will delve into the idea that darkness in our our world is by design, and can be viewed as a reflection of our own inner doubts and individual challenges. Yet, while the theological argument must perhaps be made, the copious documentation of the details of the divinely engineered concealment seem excessive and overwhelming. Moreover, could they not lead to a twisted sanctioning of evil? ______________________________ Playlist link: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4... * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5783, we are – once again – focused on chapter thirteen. As such, the discourses of 5723 (1963) and 5743 (1983) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.

’ ’ Part One of this special series on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani 5743 (1983), entitled "BENEATH THE DARKNESS" is called “ARMED FOR VICTORY.” The prefix (covering chapters one and two) of the Ma’amer succinctly and uniquely recapitulates the thesis of the first 12 chapters of the original Ma’amer Basi L’Gani (5710). For more about this see below.* This opening Episode sets the stage for the exciting ground-breaking mystical journey that especially focuses on the theme of chapter 13 by traveling a familiar road in revisiting the themes of the earlier chapters. Yet, much of the scenery is redrawn and previous parameters are significantly expanded and re-envisioned with an illuminating new perspective! _____________________________________________ * The Ma’amarim of Basi L’Gani, are a collection of more than 40 uniquely themed Chassidic Discourses that were delivered by The Rebbe on, or in proximity to Yud Shvat, the Yartzeit-Hilulah of his predecessor Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, between the years of 5711 and 5748 (1951 – 1988). All these ruminations were directly based on Ma’amer Basi L’Gani, 5710, which was released by Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok on the eve of his terrestrial passing. This [original] Ma’amer is widely regarded as the Previous Rebbe’s Last Will and Testament, and our Rebbe used its themes as guiding lights for the unique mission of our Seventh Generation [of Chabad-Lubavitch] Chassidim. Kindred in containing many common concepts or ideas, each discourse incorporates a remarkably wide range of mystical Torah teachings and always radiates with multiple novel, fresh creative insights. The original rumination contains Twenty Chapters, and for nearly four decades, annually (in orderly successive fashion) the Rebbe would elaborate on themes found in a specific chapter, by delivering one or more Ma’amarim (formal dissertations of original Chassidic Teachings) almost always opening with the Midrashic words “Basi L’Gani.” This year, 5783, we are – once again – focused on chapter thirteen. As such, the discourses of 5723 (1963) and 5743 (1983) are studied by the global Chasidic community during the Yud Shvat season.