In episode 8 of the Neshamah Project podcast, Rabbi Ben Newman continues his study of the weeks of the Omer and introduces us to the Sephirah of Gevurah or Din (strength/judgement). This sephirah represents limits and boundaries. He reads texts from: Talmud, Tanya, Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl, R' Dr. Arthur Green, and Rachel Pollack.

Neshamah Project Podcast Episode 8

In this episode, we journey through the mystical depths of three Hasidic masters—Maor VaShemesh, Esh Kodesh, and Mei HaShiloach—each offering profound insight into how we navigate moments of spiritual and existential pressure.

The Maor VaShemesh teaches us that the splitting of the sea was not just a miracle of nature, but a revelation of inner harmony—when kindness, strength, and integration merge, barriers dissolve, and hidden light is released. The sea within us parts when we align ourselves with the deepest compassion and spiritual clarity.

The Esh Kodesh, writing from within the Warsaw Ghetto, dares to suggest something even more radical: that God, in infinite love, values the dignity of humanity so deeply that the Divine forgoes Divine honor for the sake of human honor. Even in a world on fire, this teaching insists that our worth is non-negotiable.

The Mei HaShiloach reminds us that when God's will is hidden and the path unclear, we are called not to over-intellectualize, but to return to simple awe. In moments of doubt, we anchor ourselves in humility, choosing devotion over certainty.

Together, these teachings offer a map for living with courage, humility, and fierce love—especially when we find ourselves between the narrow place and the sea.



Neshamah Project Episode 73: Between the Sea and the Fire-Spiritual Courage in Times of Crisis

Was There Really.wav

Rabbi Ben is  a teacher of esoteric Wisdom, kabbalistic and musical.

Neshamah Project Episode 73: Between the Sea and the Fire-Spiritual Courage in Times of Crisis

Rabbi Ben Newman

Related tracks