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 explore a mystical passage from the Zohar (Pinchas 102:679) that unpacks the ancient Yom Kippur ritual of the two goats—one offered to YHVH, the other sent to Azazel. Through this lens, we reflect on the dual nature of spiritual work: reaching toward unity and compassion while also facing and integrating our inner shadows. Paired with teachings from the Degel Machaneh Ephraim, Meor Einayim, and Maor VaShemesh on the command to "be holy," we uncover a rich tapestry of insights about communal holiness, spiritual humility, and the ongoing journey of becoming. This episode is a deep dive into the paradox of wholeness: that holiness is found not by escaping the world, but by embracing it fully—together.

Neshamah Project Episode 76: The Two Goats: Wholeness Through Shadow and Light

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

Neshamah Project Episode 76: The Two Goats: Wholeness Through Shadow and Light

Rabbi Ben Newman

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