Access Deep Places

The speaker opens by discussing the subtlety of studying Torah, using jealousy as a primary example. He argues that merely shaming oneself for feeling jealous doesn't eliminate the emotion—it only creates denial. Instead, he proposes that there exists a deeper psychological and spiritual space within each person that transcends these surface emotions. He illustrates this with the concept that we are 'very big' internally and our jealousy or anger represents only 'little parts' of ourselves.

The rabbi then transitions to a fundamental question about human nature: are people inherently selfish or giving? He observes that some see the world as entirely selfish, interpreting even kindness as self-serving. However, he argues that humans are born with a neshama (soul) that is inherently godly and designed to give. He provides evidence through observation: young children start selfish, but as they mature and especially when they become parents, they naturally access deeper spaces of generosity and sacrifice.

A significant portion addresses the difference between therapy and Torah learning. Therapy validates who a person currently is; Torah study, through a Rebbe, should guide people toward deeper spaces within themselves that already exist. The speaker emphasizes this is a journey, not instant transformation—accessing faith and deeper spiritual spaces takes time.

The core teaching involves Parashat Nitzavim and the concept of Arevut (collective responsibility among Jews). He explains the halachic principle of Shemaya K'einah (hearing is like saying) in the context of Kiddush and other mitzvot, which leads to discussion about how we are deeply connected to one another. The speaker argues that ignoring other people is actually ignoring part of oneself.

Critically, the rabbi addresses a tension he previously held: early in his yeshiva's existence, he emphasized elder students' responsibility for younger ones, but he later backed away, fearing codependence. He now returns to this emphasis, clarifying the distinction. Codependence is when someone gives to others to avoid dealing with their own issues. Healthy giving comes from a genuine, deeper place—not forced obligation. He distinguishes between 'note to self' superficial changes and accessing authentic inner spaces (using gratitude as an example: real gratitude isn't remembering to say thank you, but tapping into an actual grateful place within).

The speaker uses the concept from Reb Chaim Volozhiner that humans were created to give to others, interpreting this not as negating self-care but as recognizing our fundamental nature. He argues that when people ignore their responsibility to others, they actually diminish themselves. He advocates for a balanced approach: individuals should do their own spiritual and psychological work while also naturally engaging with and caring for others in ways authentic to their personality.

The transcript ends with welcomes to new and returning students and the singing of spiritual songs, suggesting the beginning of a new academic year at a yeshiva.