As we prepare for Yud Shevat, and many of us are signing up our children into various Batei Midrash (“Zal”), it is an appropriate time to discuss openly – and have a “reality check” – about this particular age-group and the challenges that they are facing. Rabbi Gershon Avtzon writes • Full Article

Levik Jacobson of Expand 770 writes: When Hashem showed Yechezkel the vision of the Third Beis Hamikdosh, Yechezkel cried, “Why should I tell the Yidden if you’re not prepared to build it yet?” Hashem responded, that when the Yidden will learn about the Beis Hamikdosh He will consider it as if they are involved in actually building it • Full Article

From the Chabadinfo inbox: As a member of the Crown Heights Jewish community, I am concerned about the recent spate of package theft that has occurred over the past couple of weeks. These crimes, which have caused significant inconvenience and financial hardship for the victims, must be brought to an immediate end • Full Article

In the Chatting Rabbis podcast, a cross-Atlantic conversation between Rabbi Eliezer Zalmanov of Munster, Indiana, and Rabbi Mendy Chitrik of Istanbul, Turkey: they discuss the use of smartphones and its widespread ramifications, for themselves as adults and also for their children, especially those in yeshivah, where common-sense delicate enforcement is necessary • Full Story

OP-ED: The mitzvah of shatnez, the prohibition of wearing wool mixed with linen, is often upheld in modern America. However, the potential for shatnez may be overlooked when carrying cash in one’s pocket, as U.S. paper currency is printed on a fabric consisting of both wool and linen. What can be done to avoid this? • Full Article

The strict discipline often imposed in yeshivos can have negative effects on the mental and emotional well-being of the bochurim, hindering their spiritual growth and connection with hashem. In this op-ed, Moshe Hertz explores the importance of finding a balance between discipline and autonomy in order to create a supportive and nurturing environment for spiritual development • Full Article