You can often see people who seem like real angels—immersed in holiness, oblivious to everything around them. But when someone asks their family how they are at home, they may respond, “I don’t know about angels, but he certainly doesn’t act like a mentch!”

We all have many facets: spiritual, intellectual, emotional, creative, and practical. These often feel like separate parts of us, each in its own compartment. Yet a life lived with Torah ideals is one of harmony, where all aspects of our lives align.

This unity reflects the Oneness of Hashem. "G-d is One" doesn't just mean there's only one G-d; it means there's one reality. All of creation is a manifestation of G-dliness, an opportunity to connect.

This week, we read two Parshas, Acharei Mos and Kedoshim, which begin with the Yom Kippur service in the Holy Temple. The holiest Jew, the Kohen Gadol (High Priest), on the holiest day, in the holiest place (the Holy of Holies), would prepare for seven days before entering. Yet, if the Kohen Gadol wasn't married, he was disqualified from the most sacred space.

It teaches us that a holy experience must affect and inspire our everyday lives, especially in our relationships with others.

The name "Acharei Mos" refers to the deaths of Aharon’s sons, Nadav and Avihu. They entered the Temple with such passion that their souls left their bodies in ecstasy. Despite their great holiness, they became detached from the real world, a warning about becoming too consumed by spirituality at the expense of the practical.

The sign of the deepest spiritual connection is the impact it has on our lives outside the sanctuary.

When you return from a class or an inspiring talk, share the message with those around you—especially your spouse, family, or friends. True holiness isn’t only about private moments of inspiration; it’s about living it out in the world.

Dr. Ira Weiss, a prominent cardiologist in Chicago, became the Rebbe's doctor in 1977. As his medical practice grew, his wife began to worry it was taking too much time from their family.

The Rebbe advised him: "I make sure to dedicate time every single day to speak with my wife. This conversation is holy for me, just like davening or putting on tefillin."

The Rebbe, who spent his entire day studying Torah, meeting with people, and working for the global Jewish community, always made time for his wife when he got home, simply to sit and talk over tea.

Spending quality time with our loved ones isn’t just important - it’s holy.

Shabbat Shalom!
Good Shabbos!
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