Michael Mantell

Shabbos HaGadol isn’t just another Shabbos—it’s the Shabbos heartbeat of Pesach’s sacredness, the spark that sets our redemption in motion. It’s called “the Great Shabbos” because it holds within it the power of Shabbos and Yom Tov of Pesach, blending them into something extraordinary. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

With the opening words of this week’s Torah reading, Vayikra, we hear something profound: “And He called to Moshe, and Hashem spoke to him from the Tent of Meeting, saying: Speak to the children of Israel and say to them: When a person from among you brings a korban to Hashem, from animals—from cattle or from the flock—you shall bring your offering.” [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

Hillel teaches us “Do not separate yourself from the community.” Do we need the Blue Zones or the American College of Lifestyle Medicine to tell us about the importance of unity and connection? Hillel tells us further in Avos 2:5, “Do not trust in yourself until the day of your death.” He is suggesting that since we cannot trust ourselves, our synagogue, our community, is necessary for us to help sustain our spiritual stability.  [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

What is the value of knowledge that is not transmitted and shared with others? If we look at this week’s parsha, Vayakhel, and follow the path of Betzalel, my father’s name zt’l, we may find an answer to that question. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

By Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. EL CAJON, California — This week’s Torah portion, Ki Tisa, provides us a powerful reflection on human nature, faith, and the psychological challenges we all face in our lives. The events surrounding the creation of the Golden Calf teach us about the consequences of our being impatient, inflexible and lacking

Do we need a sanctuary to know, to feel, Hashem’s presence and that He dwells in our midst?  Or like the little girl flying her kite, do we “feel the tug” wherever we are? Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Kotzk teaches us that “G-d dwells where we let Him in.” [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]

This week’s Torah portion, Mishpatim, is a profound exploration of law, ethics, and relationships, offering deep psychological insight into emotional well-being. Through a mental health lens examining this section of the Torah, we can extract valuable lessons about trust, mindfulness, and interpersonal dynamics—critical components of mental health and emotional resilience. [Michael R. Mantell, PhD]

In the shadow of Har Sinai, where the thunderous revelation of Matan Torah is about to unfold, an unexpected teacher emerges, Yitro, a Midianite priest and Moshe Rabbeinu’s father-in-law. Before the epic moment of receiving the Torah we are presented with a powerful twist—a lesson in leadership, humility, and the art of balancing spiritual loftiness with practical wisdom. [Michael R. Mantell,Ph.D]

By Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. EL CAJON, California — In the Torah portion Beshalach which we read this week, a profound verse highlights the relationship between divine guidance and personal well-being. The text presents two nuanced interpretations of Hashem’s role as a healer.  It contains the following verse: “If thou wilt diligently hearken to the

Parsha Bo’s greatest lesson is to never accede, to never give in, to never give up. A wonderful lesson on Mental Health Awareness Shabbat in the UK, a day dedicated to promoting good mental health within the Jewish community. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]