Moses’ Rebuke & the Art of Receiving Criticism: A Parsha Perspective on Self-Esteem

This class explores one of the Torah’s most striking rebukes, Moses’ fiery confrontation with the tribes of Reuben and Gad and uncovers why they chose silence over self-defense. Through this encounter and a powerful Chassidic story about the Sefas Emes, Rabbi Bernath examines why we often recoil at criticism and how to reframe it as a holy opportunity for growth.

From Moses to modern marriage, from a misunderstood heretic to the Maggid of Mezritch, we dive into the soul’s secret defense system and how to disarm it with self-worth, humility, and Chassidic wisdom.

Takeaways:

1. The power of silence: Sometimes, it’s more spiritually transformative to listen to criticism than to justify ourselves, especially when it comes from someone wise.
2. Criticism doesn’t define you: When you know your core worth, you can absorb criticism without collapsing.
3. Not all rebuke is rejection: Moses’ rebuke was intense, but it came from leadership and love.
4. Marriage tip: Your spouse’s critique might not be a judgment, it might be a chance to expand your perspective.
5. The Maggid’s wisdom: True self-esteem is found when neither praise nor criticism defines your value.
6. Criticism is holy rain: It should nourish, not erode. But to receive it, we need rooted self-worth.

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