Mesilas Yesharim

Rabbi Ari Klapper, Real Judaism, Eli Podcast Productions
  • 0.0 (0)
  • JUDAISM
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Bridge the gap between knowing and living Torah values. Rabbi Ari Klapper's detailed study of this foundational mussar text addresses the frustrating reality: we know what's right, but struggle to embody it. Practical character development, fear and love of Hashem, spiritual growth through stories and real-world examples. Change is harder than learning all of Shas, but it is possible with consistent effort and authentic guidance.

  1. 2D AGO

    Ep. 63 – Long Term Investments

    You lock up money for five years without touching it—why? Because you believe in the return. The Mesilas Yesharim drops us to the second level of motivation: those who serve Hashem not purely for its own sake, but because they want Olam Haba. It's not the highest madreiga, but it's honest. And here's the reality check: if you're willing to sacrifice now for financial security later, why wouldn't you invest even more for an eternity that actually matters? This life, even if you live to ninety, is microscopic compared to forever. Young people think it's long; old people wonder where it went. Every madreiga in Olam Haba depends entirely on what you build here—the harder you work, the higher you rise. But are you chasing diamonds or chicken fat? Are you stuffing your pockets with what will turn to dust, or are you collecting the Torah and mitzvos that hold eternal value? This episode asks the uncomfortable question: if you believe in Olam Haba, why aren't you investing like you mean it? Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    7 min

  2. FEB 3

    Ep. 62 – Compared to Others

    We all measure ourselves against others—but are we measuring the right things? The Mesilas Yesharim explores the first level of Zerizus: those completely committed to serving Hashem because it's simply the right thing to do. These individuals reach toward Yiras Cheit, constantly concerned that even the smallest misstep might compromise their service. It's a lofty madreiga, far above where most of us stand. Yet here's the trap: when we see people above us, we call them fanatics; when we see people below us, we call them lacking. Meanwhile, we convince ourselves we're perfectly positioned. Chazal teach that every person will be "burned by the chuppah of their friend"—not from jealousy, but from recognizing, "I could have been there too." What if the gap between you and greatness isn't talent or background, but simply consistent effort? The gedolim we admire started where you are now. Can you look up without feeling threatened? Can you look down without feeling superior? This episode invites you to see potential instead of comparison, to recognize that your friend's spiritual heights aren't there to shame you—they're there to show you what's possible when you commit. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    6 min

  3. JAN 27

    Ep. 61 – The Need for Guidance

    You want to serve Hashem with everything you've got—but how do you know you're doing it right? The Mesilas Yesharim reveals that the highest level of Avodas Hashem comes from those who pursue both quality and quantity in their mitzvos, never resting until they reach their fullest potential. But here's the crucial insight: this fire must burn with wisdom, not anxiety. Without proper guidance, even the purest intentions can lead someone astray. Shlomo HaMelech praised "the one who is fearful always"—not obsessive fear, but the healthy concern that asks, "Am I truly serving Hashem correctly?" How do you distinguish genuine spiritual growth from unhealthy extremes? The answer lies in seeking a Rav, a Rebbe, a guide who can help you navigate the path. Can you climb without asking for help? Will your passion lead to greatness or collapse without direction? This episode challenges you to recognize where you are and seek the guidance that turns sincere devotion into sustainable transformation. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don't forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    6 min

  4. JAN 20

    Ep. 60 – Don't Jump Too Fast

    Have you ever been swept up by inspiration only to crash back down when reality hits? The Ramchal warns that raw zeal without measured growth can lead to spiritual burn-out and despair. While the newly inspired may vow 100 percent devotion overnight, without gradual refinement and honest self-assessment, that fervor often fizzles—and may even breed discouragement. Why do we mistake overwhelming passion for true progress? This episode will show you the path of steady ascent—teaching you how to temper inspiration with practical steps, enlist wise mentorship, and build enduring spiritual habits. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    6 min

  5. JAN 13

    Ep. 59 – Understanding What You are Doing

    Have you ever questioned whether your zeal for mitzvos springs from clarity of purpose—or from anxiety and habit? The Ramchal teaches that the highest service, "shlomei hadas," arises when one truly knows they were created to sanctify Hashem alone and pours their entire being into that mission. Yet without mature understanding, even sincere fervor can masquerade as obsessive compulsion. How do you distinguish wholehearted devotion from restless drive? This episode will show you how to cultivate genuine understanding by deepening your grasp of Divine purpose, ensuring every step is energized by true clarity. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    8 min

  6. JAN 6

    Ep. 58 – Pure Servant of Hashem

    Have you ever met someone whose every breath seemed dedicated to a higher purpose? The Ramchal teaches that the first rung on the ladder of ruchnius is "shlomei hadas"—those with complete clarity of Divine mission. While the world chases fleeting pleasures or vague ideals, these souls know they were born solely to sanctify Hashem's Name. Why do so many of us dilute our devotion with distractions? This episode will introduce the path of the "pure servant"—revealing how unwavering focus on Kiddush Hashem transforms work, leisure, and even temptation into opportunities for spiritual elevation. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    7 min

  7. 12/30/2025

    Ep. 57 – Real Meaning in Life

    Do you ever wonder why you're really here? The Ramchal teaches that our deepest vitality springs from recognizing life's Divine purpose—without it, every choice feels empty, and atheism becomes a license for aimless drift. From the self-sacrifices of our forebears to the unwavering conviction of our Sages, history brims with living proof that belief in Hashem transforms existence into a mission rather than a mistake. Why does true conviction ignite such courage? This episode will unveil how immersing yourself in Torah narratives and Divine service can anchor your purpose and imbue every moment with real meaning. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    5 min

  8. 12/23/2025

    Ep. 56 – Sensitivity Training

    Have you ever missed a hidden blessing because your heart was dulled to life's finer nuances? The Ramchal teaches that Torah learning is the ultimate sensitivity training—sharpening our spiritual "sense organs" so we recognize true good and recoil from subtle evils. Too often we stroll through mitzvos and moral choices on autopilot, unaware of the precious opportunities hiding in plain sight. How might your relationships deepen if you perceived every act of kindness as a Divine gift? This episode will show you how immersive Torah study rewires your instincts—so you instinctively gravitate toward holiness. Hosted by Rabbi Ari Klapper and produced by Eli Podcast Productions, this episode is part of the Real Judaism series, available on RealJudaism.org. Don’t forget to subscribe and share to stay connected with our daily lessons and timeless Torah insights!

    9 min
See All (64)

About

Bridge the gap between knowing and living Torah values. Rabbi Ari Klapper's detailed study of this foundational mussar text addresses the frustrating reality: we know what's right, but struggle to embody it. Practical character development, fear and love of Hashem, spiritual growth through stories and real-world examples. Change is harder than learning all of Shas, but it is possible with consistent effort and authentic guidance.

Information

  • Creator
    Rabbi Ari Klapper, Real Judaism, Eli Podcast Productions
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    64
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Rabbi Ari Klapper, Real Judaism, Eli Podcast Productions
  • Show Website
    Mesilas Yesharim