Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. is a retired psychologist, best-selling author, international speaker, and a highly sought after cognitive behavioral coach whose actionable, valuable and practical work has been featured on Fox News, ABC-TV, NBC-TV, CBS-TV, The New York Times, and The Huffington Post. He has been teaching how Torah’s wisdom can lead to optimal living for many decades. You can follow him on Facebook and in other social media, where he has posted the #MantellDaily5 everyday for years.
His books, available on Amazon, include:
The parasha hints at something quite illuminating. While we built the Mishkan, the process of doing so, the unity we experienced, our undistracted singular focus and purpose, our following Hashem’s plan, actually built us, says the Malbim. By building something, the builder changes. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parashat Pekudei: Fulfilling God’s Sacred Plan in Unity Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsThe name “Betzalel” means “being in God’s shadow,” suggesting that he had attained the level of tzadik and achieved yihud with Hashem. But simply possessing chochmah, t’vunah and daat, simply sharing a unity with Hashem, are not enough. It’s what you do with your education and knowledge to help others, that matters. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Vayakhel-Shekalim: Teaching One Another in Unity Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsBeing counted is one thing, being counted upon to give an offering to Hashem is another. Some believe that they “must” be counted by, approved of by others. Others see more deeply and understand that being approved of, being counted by Hashem, has far more meaning. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Ki Tisa: Counting and Being Counted Upon Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsThis week’s parasha opens with a clear command to create and maintain the ner tamid, a light much like the chanukiyah, not to be used for any practical purpose but rather to amplify our connection to Hashem.[Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Tetzaveh: Keep the Light Shining Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsMaking a sanctuary is understood to be the requirement for Hashem to dwell within us. We cannot be passive and expect Hashem to dwell within us. We are required to take the first step. He doesn’t live in a building, isn’t restricted to one place, but rather lives within us, within our hearts, and within our minds. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Terumah: A Sanctuary for God in Our Hearts Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsHealing requires patience, understanding and seeing the imperfect humanity of one another. We all make mistakes in our search for purpose and belonging. Parasha Mishpatim is teaching us to have compassion when those around us falter on their journey, binding up hearts broken by rage and judgement. If together we pick up the shattered pieces with care, perhaps we’ll find wholeness awaits on the other side. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Mishpatim: Finding Meaning in Brokenness Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsLike Moshe, burdened by his flock, we often wear ourselves thin in service. But just as Yitro offered wise counsel to Moshe to share the burden, remember that neglecting your own wellspring weakens you and those you serve. Self-care isn’t indulgence, it’s sacred stewardship. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Yitro: Care for Yourself, as Yitro Instructed Moses Read More »
Jewish Religion, Lifestyles, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined Contributors“And He said, If you hearken to the voice of the Lord, your G-d, and you do what is proper in His eyes, and you listen closely to His commandments and observe all His statutes, all the sicknesses that I have visited upon Egypt I will not visit upon you, for I, the Lord, heal you.” The above verse appears immediately after the Shira (Song at the Sea of Reeds). It teaches us in no uncertain terms that it is Hashem, and no other, who heals us. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Beshalach: Who Is the True Physician? Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsThe invisible power of fear, the dread of solitude, finds its only remedy in the recognition that we are never truly alone. The profound message from parashat Bo resonates: “Come with Me.” Embrace the divine companionship that dispels the illusion of isolation. [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Bo: Fear Results from a Sense of Aloneness Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsThis week we learn of Abraham’s test to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac. It’s the only challenge of the ten trials in the Torah clearly identified as a “test.” Hashem needed to test Abraham? After all, isn’t He omniscient? Yes, but the purpose of these tests are to elevate Abraham, to help him grow. [Michael R. Mantell, PhD]
Parasha Va’eira: Accepting Life’s Challenges Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsImagine this: you, nestled in His embrace, unshackled from earthly limits. Now, wouldn’t Hashem naturally want to protect and provide for you? That’s the essence of Bitachon – a deep assurance that, fueled by your trust, Hashem’s blessings will manifest, regardless of any perceived “worthiness.” [Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D]
Parasha Shemot: Trust in God, Have Compassion for Others Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell, Staff and Bylined ContributorsBy Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. SAN DIEGO — What sustains you through inevitable setbacks in life? Is it your self-confidence? After all, pop psychology would have us believe that what it takes is simply true belief in yourself. But this week’s parasha, Vayechi, teaches us that what strengthened and motivated Joseph was a genuine understanding
Parashat Vayechi: A Lens of Positivity Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael MantellBy Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. SAN DIEGO — In the midst of the formidable challenges that we’re grappling with, especially since October 7th, it’s high time for a profound, spiritual awakening. This week’s parasha, Vayigash, unfolds with captivating lessons that beckon us to elevate our lives to a whole new level. Drawing inspiration from the
Parashat Vayigash: Elevating Our Lives to a New Level Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael MantellBy Michael R. Mantell, Ph.D. SAN DIEGO — If you’re not feeling the magic of “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” let’s chat. Picture this: back in 1963, Jewish composers Eddie Pola and George Wyle (aka Bernard Weissman) crafted the catchy lyrics and music for that very song. Now, if you’re scratching your head
Parashat Mikeitz: Standing Resilient Against the Darkness Read More »
Jewish Religion, Michael Mantell