8:00pm: What Are the Spiritual Dynamics of a Virus Epidemic?

The topics in this week’s 302nd episode of the highly acclaimed MyLife: Chassidus Applied series, with Rabbi Simon Jacobson, will include: 

• How do we address the paradox of the pandemic happening during these redemptive and miraculous days of Nissan?
• Should we be doing things differently because of the situation?
• What lessons do we learn from Pesach about the coronavirus?
• What should our community learn from this disaster?
• During these times what is the role of teshuva, which brings healing to the world?
• Please make some suggestions that we individually and as a community can do to stop the virus?
• Should we be fasting during this time?
• How can we see the light amidst all this darkness?
• Is it inappropriate to share funny coronavirus memes on social media? 
• What to do about immersing new vessels in a mikveh when they are closed?
• Do we blow shofar during the time of a plague?
• What should I do if I need to say HaGomel?
• Does the coronavirus have any connection with Moshiach?
• Chassidus question: What are the spiritual dynamics of a virus epidemic?

This hour-long dose of insights, broadcast live every Sunday night 8-9PM EST, is meant to inform, inspire and empower us by applying the teachings of Chassidus to help us face practical and emotional challenges and difficulties in our personal lives and relationships. To have your question addressed, please submit it at chassidusapplied.com/ask.

In what has now become a staple in so many people’s lives, MyLife: Chassidus Applied addresses questions that many people are afraid to ask and others are afraid to answer. When asked about the sensitive topics he has been addressing, Rabbi Simon Jacobson commented, “I understand that the stakes are high and great care has to be taken when speaking openly, but the silence and lack of clarity on matters plaguing the community can no longer go unaddressed. The stakes of not providing answers are even higher.”

The on-going series has provoked a significant reaction from the community, with thousands of people viewing each live broadcast and hundreds of questions pouring in week after week. At the root of every question and personal challenge tackled by the series is the overarching question: Does Judaism have the answers to my personal dilemmas?

In inimitable “Jacobson-fashion”, the broadcast answers people’s questions in simple, clear language while being heavily sourced. Each episode is jam-packed with eye-opening advice from the Rebbeim, gleaned from uncovering surprising gems in their letters, sichos and maamorim that address our personal issues with disarming relevance. Simultaneously, Rabbi Jacobson is able to crystallize a concept quickly, succinctly, and poignantly for any level of listener.

All episodes are immediately available for viewing in the MLC’s archive and can be downloaded as MP3s for listening on the go.

Questions may be submitted anonymously at chassidusapplied.com/ask.