18Forty Podcast Joey Rosenfeld: What Does Jewish Mysticism Say About This Moment? [Teshuva Bonus Episode]
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Aug 19, 2025 Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld, a psychotherapist and translator of Kabbalah and Hasidut, discusses navigating the complexities of spiritual life in today’s world. He explores where to channel spiritual energy as we reflect on recent events, the purpose of yearning, and the mystical concept of Mashiach. Joey emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and confronting inner emptiness while drawing on themes from Jewish mysticism. Their conversation highlights the significance of embracing imperfections as pathways to spiritual revelation.
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Sanctifying The Mundane
- Halakha draws transcendence into mundane life by sanctifying physical actions.
- Ritual obedience links ordinary behavior to a chain reaching God, creating meaning in the world.
Judaism Guards Deficiency
- Judaism guards the idea of permanent deficiency to prevent claims of human perfectibility.
- Keeping mitzvot preserves a perpetual apprenticeship rather than an achieved perfection.
Practice Unconditional Self-Acceptance
- Fake unconditional self-acceptance until it becomes real, because faking and making are equivalent.
- Anchor worthiness in a chosen bond with God rather than achievements or external validation.
