Popular Shows by TORCH הרב אריה וולבה
21655 episodes
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Name
Release Date
Duration
11301
The Rest of the Story with Esther Kaplan (Part 2: March 2021)
The Rest of the Story with Esther Kaplan (Part 2: March 2021)
Apr 6, 2021
1:07:15
Esther Kaplan (née Wolbe), along with her husband AJ, experienced the worst nightmare parents can undergo when their adorable and perfect son Shlomo passed away only 16 weeks into his life. This intimate and stirring conversation follows up on the one we had in 2018 in which Esther shares the story of Shlomo’s life and […]
11302
Who was Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai and why does Lag Ba’Omer matter?
Who was Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai and why does Lag Ba’Omer matter?
Apr 21, 2021
30:44
Lag BaOmer is the day that marks the Yahrtzeit/Hillula of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, one of the great Sages of the Mishnaic Era. In celebration and recognition of Rabbi Shimon’s accomplishments and stature, the custom is to make it a mini-holiday. But of course, Rabbi Shimon was not the only transcendental Sage of that time. […]
11303
Who was Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai and why does Lag Ba’Omer matter?
Who was Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai and why does Lag Ba’Omer matter?
Apr 21, 2021
30:44
Lag BaOmer is the day that marks the Yahrtzeit/Hillula of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, one of the great Sages of the Mishnaic Era. In celebration and recognition of Rabbi Shimon’s accomplishments and stature, the custom is to make it a mini-holiday. But of course, Rabbi Shimon was not the only transcendental Sage of that time. […]
11304
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
May 10, 2021
39:28
Shavuos is the day that marks the most significant event in the history of humankind: A nation coalesced around Mount Sinai to temporarily catapult into a state of prophecy, to hear God say the Ten Commandments, and to live to tell the tale. Shavuos is thus aptly named, “the Day of the Giving of the […]
11305
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
May 10, 2021
39:28
Shavuos is the day that marks the most significant event in the history of humankind: A nation coalesced around Mount Sinai to temporarily catapult into a state of prophecy, to hear God say the Ten Commandments, and to live to tell the tale. Shavuos is thus aptly named, “the Day of the Giving of the […]
11306
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
May 12, 2021
1:01:46
The Book of Ruth – and its eponymous heroine – are true enigmas. The Book contains no new laws and its story, while inspirational and poignant, bears no easily discernible connection to the Festival of Shavuos, when it is read. The Book’s protagonist, Ruth, has a decidedly checkered pedigree, yet becomes the matriarch of the […]
11307
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
May 12, 2021
1:01:46
The Book of Ruth – and its eponymous heroine – are true enigmas. The Book contains no new laws and its story, while inspirational and poignant, bears no easily discernible connection to the Festival of Shavuos, when it is read. The Book’s protagonist, Ruth, has a decidedly checkered pedigree, yet becomes the matriarch of the […]
11308
The Three Weeks: A Primer
The Three Weeks: A Primer
Jun 27, 2021
52:20
For the three weeks spanning from the fast of the 17th of Tammuz until the fast of Tisha B’av (9th of Av), the Jewish nation practices collective mourning. This mourning is the result of a collection of calamitous things that has happened to our ancestors during these inauspicious times. What is the background of these […]
11309
The Three Weeks: A Primer
The Three Weeks: A Primer
Jun 27, 2021
52:20
For the three weeks spanning from the fast of the 17th of Tammuz until the fast of Tisha B’av (9th of Av), the Jewish nation practices collective mourning. This mourning is the result of a collection of calamitous things that has happened to our ancestors during these inauspicious times. What is the background of these […]
11310
The Essence of Elul
The Essence of Elul
Aug 9, 2021
29:58
These 40 days from the beginning of the month of Elul, the final month in the Jewish calendar, and Yom Kippur are the most powerful days of the year. These 40 days coincide with the 40 days that Moshe was in Heaven for the third 40 day stint when he received the second set of […]
11311
The Essence of Elul
The Essence of Elul
Aug 9, 2021
29:58
These 40 days from the beginning of the month of Elul, the final month in the Jewish calendar, and Yom Kippur are the most powerful days of the year. These 40 days coincide with the 40 days that Moshe was in Heaven for the third 40 day stint when he received the second set of […]
11312
Rosh Hashana: Customs, Rituals, Ceremonies, and Practices
Rosh Hashana: Customs, Rituals, Ceremonies, and Practices
Aug 29, 2021
1:05:43
The two days of Rosh Hashana are two of the most important days in the year. These festival days are celebratory and joyous, but are also dedicated to prayer, to introspection, and repentance. Rosh Hashana is a time when we try to strike a delicate balance of festivities and trepidation due to the Day of […]
11313
Rosh Hashana: Customs, Rituals, Ceremonies, and Practices
Rosh Hashana: Customs, Rituals, Ceremonies, and Practices
Aug 29, 2021
1:05:43
The two days of Rosh Hashana are two of the most important days in the year. These festival days are celebratory and joyous, but are also dedicated to prayer, to introspection, and repentance. Rosh Hashana is a time when we try to strike a delicate balance of festivities and trepidation due to the Day of […]
11314
Man In The Arena: Three Ways To Understand The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
Man In The Arena: Three Ways To Understand The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
Sep 3, 2021
50:21
In addition to the many other themes and motifs of the day, Rosh Hashana is called the Day of Judgment. The Mishnah tells us that on Rosh Hashana every human has an individual audience with the Almighty in the same way that a shepherd counts each sheep individually. The judgment is comprehensive: all of a […]
11315
Man In The Arena: Three Ways To Understand The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
Man In The Arena: Three Ways To Understand The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
Sep 3, 2021
50:21
In addition to the many other themes and motifs of the day, Rosh Hashana is called the Day of Judgment. The Mishnah tells us that on Rosh Hashana every human has an individual audience with the Almighty in the same way that a shepherd counts each sheep individually. The judgment is comprehensive: all of a […]
11316
The Seven Wonders of Repentance
The Seven Wonders of Repentance
Sep 5, 2021
1:05:59
Rosh Hashana kickstarts the Ten Days of Repentance which culminates in Yom Kippur. This is the time to repent. But repentance is a daunting and terrifying concept. All change is frightening. In this very special edition of the podcast, we shed a new light on repentance. We discover that repentance is a great gift that […]
11317
The Seven Wonders of Repentance
The Seven Wonders of Repentance
Sep 5, 2021
1:05:59
Rosh Hashana kickstarts the Ten Days of Repentance which culminates in Yom Kippur. This is the time to repent. But repentance is a daunting and terrifying concept. All change is frightening. In this very special edition of the podcast, we shed a new light on repentance. We discover that repentance is a great gift that […]
11318
Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The Interpersonal Component of Yom Kippur
Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The Interpersonal Component of Yom Kippur
Sep 12, 2021
43:41
Yom Kippur is a day of atonement and expiation. On this auspicious day, the Almighty forgives us for all our transgressions and we become purified before God. But the purification of Yom Kippur is limited to sins between man and God. For interpersonal transgressions, there is no atonement unless the aggressor appeases and secures forgiveness […]
11319
Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The Interpersonal Component of Yom Kippur
Reconciliation and Forgiveness: The Interpersonal Component of Yom Kippur
Sep 12, 2021
43:41
Yom Kippur is a day of atonement and expiation. On this auspicious day, the Almighty forgives us for all our transgressions and we become purified before God. But the purification of Yom Kippur is limited to sins between man and God. For interpersonal transgressions, there is no atonement unless the aggressor appeases and secures forgiveness […]
11320
Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Rebroadcast)
Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Rebroadcast)
Sep 13, 2021
2:05:32
On Yom Kippur afternoon, we read the 48-verse Book of Jonah, which tells of a renegade prophet, Jonah, who defies the directive of God and refuses to castigate the people of Nineveh and instead escapes from God to Tarshish – with mixed results. A simple reading of the story reveals a tale of repentance, both of […]
11321
Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Rebroadcast)
Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Rebroadcast)
Sep 13, 2021
2:05:32
On Yom Kippur afternoon, we read the 48-verse Book of Jonah, which tells of a renegade prophet, Jonah, who defies the directive of God and refuses to castigate the people of Nineveh and instead escapes from God to Tarshish – with mixed results. A simple reading of the story reveals a tale of repentance, both of […]
11322
Tips and Tricks to Secure a Positive Judgment on Yom Kippur
Tips and Tricks to Secure a Positive Judgment on Yom Kippur
Sep 14, 2021
49:46
Yom Kippur is the end of the annual judgment. On Yom Kippur, the verdict written on Rosh Hashana gets sealed. Until that deadline, however, we can effectuate our judgment. The verdict can be rewritten and amended; the bad decrees can be annulled. But it won’t happen automatically. We need to expend effort to ensure that […]
11323
Tips and Tricks to Secure a Positive Judgment on Yom Kippur
Tips and Tricks to Secure a Positive Judgment on Yom Kippur
Sep 14, 2021
49:46
Yom Kippur is the end of the annual judgment. On Yom Kippur, the verdict written on Rosh Hashana gets sealed. Until that deadline, however, we can effectuate our judgment. The verdict can be rewritten and amended; the bad decrees can be annulled. But it won’t happen automatically. We need to expend effort to ensure that […]
11324
The Glorious Clouds of Sukkos
The Glorious Clouds of Sukkos
Sep 19, 2021
1:05:57
Over the course of the Festival of Sukkos (sometimes spelled “Sukkot”, sometimes “Succos”, rivaled only by the nightmare of trying to find the definitive spelling of Chanukah – Hannukah, Hanukkah), we must dwell in a temporary structure, a Sukkah. Why? “In order that your generations know that [God] made Sukkahs for us during the Exodus.” […]
11325
The Glorious Clouds of Sukkos
The Glorious Clouds of Sukkos
Sep 19, 2021
1:05:57
Over the course of the Festival of Sukkos (sometimes spelled “Sukkot”, sometimes “Succos”, rivaled only by the nightmare of trying to find the definitive spelling of Chanukah – Hannukah, Hanukkah), we must dwell in a temporary structure, a Sukkah. Why? “In order that your generations know that [God] made Sukkahs for us during the Exodus.” […]
11326
Dreaming of a Sunny Sukkah
Dreaming of a Sunny Sukkah
Sep 23, 2021
34:25
We are amid the incredible Festival of Sukkos. Each day (except Shabbos) we shake the Lulav and Esrog, we celebrate with our family, and we dwell in our temporary residence, the Sukkah. But what happens when the weather does not comply? What do we do when it gets swelteringly hot? In this podcast, we demonstrate […]
11327
Dreaming of a Sunny Sukkah
Dreaming of a Sunny Sukkah
Sep 23, 2021
34:25
We are amid the incredible Festival of Sukkos. Each day (except Shabbos) we shake the Lulav and Esrog, we celebrate with our family, and we dwell in our temporary residence, the Sukkah. But what happens when the weather does not comply? What do we do when it gets swelteringly hot? In this podcast, we demonstrate […]
11328
Hoshana Rabbah, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah: The Meaning of Sukkot’s Climax
Hoshana Rabbah, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah: The Meaning of Sukkot’s Climax
Sep 26, 2021
56:04
The Festival of Sukkot ends with a three-day constellation of significant days: The seventh day is Hoshana Rabbah, the eighth is Shemini Atzeres, and the ninth is Simchas Torah. These days have unique customs not found in any other day in the Jewish calendar. In this sweeping podcast episode, we explore these days, plumb their […]
11329
Hoshana Rabbah, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah: The Meaning of Sukkot’s Climax
Hoshana Rabbah, Shemini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah: The Meaning of Sukkot’s Climax
Sep 26, 2021
56:04
The Festival of Sukkot ends with a three-day constellation of significant days: The seventh day is Hoshana Rabbah, the eighth is Shemini Atzeres, and the ninth is Simchas Torah. These days have unique customs not found in any other day in the Jewish calendar. In this sweeping podcast episode, we explore these days, plumb their […]
11330
But I’m a Good Person with Dan Kullman
But I’m a Good Person with Dan Kullman
Oct 3, 2021
55:19
When my dear friend, Dan Kullman, asked me to join him on The Shema Podcast to discuss the phenomenon of people saying, “But I’m a good person,” I was not aware of how pervasive such a sentiment is and why discussing it would be interesting. In the end we had a delightful and stimulating conversation. […]
11331
But I’m a Good Person with Dan Kullman
But I’m a Good Person with Dan Kullman
Oct 3, 2021
55:19
When my dear friend, Dan Kullman, asked me to join him on The Shema Podcast to discuss the phenomenon of people saying, “But I’m a good person,” I was not aware of how pervasive such a sentiment is and why discussing it would be interesting. In the end we had a delightful and stimulating conversation. […]
11332
The Divorce Vaccine – First Dose: How to Select the Right Spouse
The Divorce Vaccine – First Dose: How to Select the Right Spouse
Oct 31, 2021
1:05:56
What do you are about to hear is a vaccine against divorce. This first dose is intended for single people, who have not yet decided who they want to spend the rest of their lives with. If you are already married, you’ve made your choice and this part of the vaccine is not relevant to […]
11333
The Divorce Vaccine – First Dose: How to Select the Right Spouse
The Divorce Vaccine – First Dose: How to Select the Right Spouse
Oct 31, 2021
1:05:56
What do you are about to hear is a vaccine against divorce. This first dose is intended for single people, who have not yet decided who they want to spend the rest of their lives with. If you are already married, you’ve made your choice and this part of the vaccine is not relevant to […]
11334
On Death and Dying: The Jewish View
On Death and Dying: The Jewish View
Nov 22, 2021
41:13
Death is the destiny of mankind. Since Adam and Eve made the regrettable decision to consume from the Tree of Knowledge, Good and Evil, man has been condemned to die. But what exactly is death? How does the experience differ from person to person? Why is it a subject worthy of our focus? These should […]
11335
On Death and Dying: The Jewish View
On Death and Dying: The Jewish View
Nov 22, 2021
41:13
Death is the destiny of mankind. Since Adam and Eve made the regrettable decision to consume from the Tree of Knowledge, Good and Evil, man has been condemned to die. But what exactly is death? How does the experience differ from person to person? Why is it a subject worthy of our focus? These should […]
11336
On Death and Dying: Part 2 – How to Prepare
On Death and Dying: Part 2 – How to Prepare
Nov 24, 2021
47:24
How do you prepare for your day of death? Is that an important question? One can argue that living is much more important than dying. Death, this line of reasoning argues, is something that happens on its own and not something that we need to concern ourselves with. In this podcast, we present a completely […]
11337
On Death and Dying: Part 2 – How to Prepare
On Death and Dying: Part 2 – How to Prepare
Nov 24, 2021
47:24
How do you prepare for your day of death? Is that an important question? One can argue that living is much more important than dying. Death, this line of reasoning argues, is something that happens on its own and not something that we need to concern ourselves with. In this podcast, we present a completely […]
11338
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs (Rebroadcast)
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs (Rebroadcast)
Nov 28, 2021
47:31
About 2,200 years ago, the Jewish Nation faced an existential threat: The Assyrian Greek Empire led by Antiochus and his Hellenist henchmen undertook a concerted campaign to systematically eradicate the Jewish religion. They sought to make the Jews forget the Torah and depart from the mitzvos; they defiled the Temple; they harassed the Jewish daughters; […]
11339
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs (Rebroadcast)
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs (Rebroadcast)
Nov 28, 2021
47:31
About 2,200 years ago, the Jewish Nation faced an existential threat: The Assyrian Greek Empire led by Antiochus and his Hellenist henchmen undertook a concerted campaign to systematically eradicate the Jewish religion. They sought to make the Jews forget the Torah and depart from the mitzvos; they defiled the Temple; they harassed the Jewish daughters; […]
11340
Chanukah and Joseph (Rebroadcast)
Chanukah and Joseph (Rebroadcast)
Dec 2, 2021
28:36
Every year, Chanukah falls out during the weeks in which we read about Joseph and his exploits in Egypt. Our Sages tell us that there is a deep connection between Joseph’s and the Maccabean heroism. Many connections have been proposed, and in this podcast I suggest a new approach to understanding how Joseph precisely embodies […]
11341
Chanukah and Joseph (Rebroadcast)
Chanukah and Joseph (Rebroadcast)
Dec 2, 2021
28:36
Every year, Chanukah falls out during the weeks in which we read about Joseph and his exploits in Egypt. Our Sages tell us that there is a deep connection between Joseph’s and the Maccabean heroism. Many connections have been proposed, and in this podcast I suggest a new approach to understanding how Joseph precisely embodies […]
11342
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Jan 13, 2022
57:50
The fifteenth day of the Jewish month of Shevat – known as Tu B’Shevat – is the New Year for trees and fruits. All the fruits that sprout before this cutoff are associated with the previous year’s yield and the ones that come afterwards are attributed to the new year’s. If that was all that […]
11343
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Jan 13, 2022
57:50
The fifteenth day of the Jewish month of Shevat – known as Tu B’Shevat – is the New Year for trees and fruits. All the fruits that sprout before this cutoff are associated with the previous year’s yield and the ones that come afterwards are attributed to the new year’s. If that was all that […]
11344
The Divorce Vaccine – Second Dose: The Essence of an Amazing Marriage & TORCH Fundraiser (giveTORCH.org)
The Divorce Vaccine – Second Dose: The Essence of an Amazing Marriage & TORCH Fundraiser (giveTORCH.org)
Feb 15, 2022
1:02:25
Please support The This Jewish Life Podcast and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED! Show your support for TORCH and The This Jewish Life Podcast and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
11345
The Divorce Vaccine – Second Dose: The Essence of an Amazing Marriage & TORCH Fundraiser (giveTORCH.org)
The Divorce Vaccine – Second Dose: The Essence of an Amazing Marriage & TORCH Fundraiser (giveTORCH.org)
Feb 15, 2022
1:02:25
Please support The This Jewish Life Podcast and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED! Show your support for TORCH and The This Jewish Life Podcast and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
11346
Special: An Interview About My New Book, Upon A Ten-Stringed Harp
Special: An Interview About My New Book, Upon A Ten-Stringed Harp
Feb 17, 2022
36:28
In conjunction with our annual fundraiser this week at giveTORCH.org (every donation is tripled), we are releasing a special interview conducted by the TORCH Board President, Dan Kullman, about my new book, Upon A Ten-Stringed Harp. Please consider contributing to our annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org.
11347
Special: An Interview About My New Book, Upon A Ten-Stringed Harp
Special: An Interview About My New Book, Upon A Ten-Stringed Harp
Feb 17, 2022
36:28
In conjunction with our annual fundraiser this week at giveTORCH.org (every donation is tripled), we are releasing a special interview conducted by the TORCH Board President, Dan Kullman, about my new book, Upon A Ten-Stringed Harp. Please consider contributing to our annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org.
11348
Purim: A Primer
Purim: A Primer
Mar 8, 2022
1:12:18
The festival of Purim commemorates the story of salvation that our nation experienced in Persia more than two thousand years ago. Haman the heir of Amaleik schemed a plot to eradicate the entire Jewish people in one randomly selected day, the 13th day of Adar. But the Almighty would have none of it. In His […]
11349
Purim: A Primer
Purim: A Primer
Mar 8, 2022
1:12:18
The festival of Purim commemorates the story of salvation that our nation experienced in Persia more than two thousand years ago. Haman the heir of Amaleik schemed a plot to eradicate the entire Jewish people in one randomly selected day, the 13th day of Adar. But the Almighty would have none of it. In His […]
11350
The Kabbalistic Conflict of Purim with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Kabbalistic Conflict of Purim with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Mar 13, 2022
1:01:05
Purim is a tantalizing festival. We get the dress up in costumes, read about close brush with destruction that our nation endured many centuries ago, and to drink alcohol guiltlessly. It’s a great party (certainly for extroverts). But what’s the deeper secret behind the day? What did Haman actually try to do to our nation? […]
11351
The Kabbalistic Conflict of Purim with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Kabbalistic Conflict of Purim with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Mar 13, 2022
1:01:05
Purim is a tantalizing festival. We get the dress up in costumes, read about close brush with destruction that our nation endured many centuries ago, and to drink alcohol guiltlessly. It’s a great party (certainly for extroverts). But what’s the deeper secret behind the day? What did Haman actually try to do to our nation? […]
11352
The Book of Esther on an Allegorical Level (Rebroadcast)
The Book of Esther on an Allegorical Level (Rebroadcast)
Mar 15, 2022
1:37:51
On Purim we read the Book of Esther, which tells the story of the Purim miracle. The Persian king Achashverosh conspires with his Amalekite viceroy Haman to eradicate the entire Jewish nation, but God refused to allow their plans to unfold. Queen Esther, together with her relative Mordechai, spearhead the effort to turn the plan on […]
11353
The Book of Esther on an Allegorical Level (Rebroadcast)
The Book of Esther on an Allegorical Level (Rebroadcast)
Mar 15, 2022
1:37:51
On Purim we read the Book of Esther, which tells the story of the Purim miracle. The Persian king Achashverosh conspires with his Amalekite viceroy Haman to eradicate the entire Jewish nation, but God refused to allow their plans to unfold. Queen Esther, together with her relative Mordechai, spearhead the effort to turn the plan on […]
11354
We Have Been Blessed With a Baby Boy
We Have Been Blessed With a Baby Boy
Mar 20, 2022
40:55
With deep appreciation to the Almighty for all the goodness that He has bestowed upon us, I’m happy to share that my wife, Chaya, and I were blessed with a beautiful baby boy on Monday, March 14. Thank God, both Mom and baby are doing fabulous! In this special edition of the podcast, I share […]
11355
We Have Been Blessed With a Baby Boy
We Have Been Blessed With a Baby Boy
Mar 20, 2022
40:55
With deep appreciation to the Almighty for all the goodness that He has bestowed upon us, I’m happy to share that my wife, Chaya, and I were blessed with a beautiful baby boy on Monday, March 14. Thank God, both Mom and baby are doing fabulous! In this special edition of the podcast, I share […]
11356
Pesach: The Lifeblood of our People
Pesach: The Lifeblood of our People
Apr 6, 2022
30:38
The Exodus from Egypt is the founding episode of our nation. The Almighty plucked us out, a nation from amidst a nation, and chose us to be His people. What were the preconditions of the Exodus? What had to happen in order to facilitate our freedom? When we examine the Exodus carefully we learn about […]
11357
Pesach: The Lifeblood of our People
Pesach: The Lifeblood of our People
Apr 6, 2022
30:38
The Exodus from Egypt is the founding episode of our nation. The Almighty plucked us out, a nation from amidst a nation, and chose us to be His people. What were the preconditions of the Exodus? What had to happen in order to facilitate our freedom? When we examine the Exodus carefully we learn about […]
11358
Pharaoh and the Haggadah
Pharaoh and the Haggadah
Apr 11, 2022
57:55
On Pesach we celebrate the Exodus from Egypt. Our nation endures hundreds of years of servitude and enslavement and unimaginable suffering and torment under the ruthless rule of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. But God did not forget His covenant. In keeping with His promise to Abraham, the Almighty redeemed us from Egypt with an outstretched […]
11359
Pharaoh and the Haggadah
Pharaoh and the Haggadah
Apr 11, 2022
57:55
On Pesach we celebrate the Exodus from Egypt. Our nation endures hundreds of years of servitude and enslavement and unimaginable suffering and torment under the ruthless rule of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. But God did not forget His covenant. In keeping with His promise to Abraham, the Almighty redeemed us from Egypt with an outstretched […]
11360
The Pesach Seder: How to Maximize the Year’s Most Powerful Night
The Pesach Seder: How to Maximize the Year’s Most Powerful Night
Apr 13, 2022
59:35
The first night of Pesach – the second night as well is the Diaspora – is arguably the most important nights of the year. On this night we were redeemed from Egypt, this is the night of the Exodus, this is the night of the death of the firstborn; tonight we became a nation. This […]
11361
The Pesach Seder: How to Maximize the Year’s Most Powerful Night
The Pesach Seder: How to Maximize the Year’s Most Powerful Night
Apr 13, 2022
59:35
The first night of Pesach – the second night as well is the Diaspora – is arguably the most important nights of the year. On this night we were redeemed from Egypt, this is the night of the Exodus, this is the night of the death of the firstborn; tonight we became a nation. This […]
11362
Omer: Seven Themes for the Seven Weeks of Seven Days
Omer: Seven Themes for the Seven Weeks of Seven Days
May 3, 2022
58:13
The days spanning the Festivals of Pesach and Shavuos, of Exodus and Sinai, are called the days of the Omer. During these 49 days, during these 7 weeks of 7 days, we are commanded to count the days by mentioning each day’s number and the corresponding number of weeks and days. In this sweeping podcast […]
11363
Omer: Seven Themes for the Seven Weeks of Seven Days
Omer: Seven Themes for the Seven Weeks of Seven Days
May 3, 2022
58:13
The days spanning the Festivals of Pesach and Shavuos, of Exodus and Sinai, are called the days of the Omer. During these 49 days, during these 7 weeks of 7 days, we are commanded to count the days by mentioning each day’s number and the corresponding number of weeks and days. In this sweeping podcast […]
11364
Lag BaOmer and Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
Lag BaOmer and Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
May 15, 2022
30:42
Lag BaOmer is the day that marks the Yahrtzeit/Hillula of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, one of the great Sages of the Mishnaic Era. In celebration and recognition of Rabbi Shimon’s accomplishments and stature, the custom is to make it a mini-holiday. But of course, Rabbi Shimon was not the only transcendental Sage of that time. His teacher […]
11365
Lag BaOmer and Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
Lag BaOmer and Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
May 15, 2022
30:42
Lag BaOmer is the day that marks the Yahrtzeit/Hillula of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, one of the great Sages of the Mishnaic Era. In celebration and recognition of Rabbi Shimon’s accomplishments and stature, the custom is to make it a mini-holiday. But of course, Rabbi Shimon was not the only transcendental Sage of that time. His teacher […]
11366
Agency, Urgency, Insurgency: Six Powerful Pointers on Self-Development
Agency, Urgency, Insurgency: Six Powerful Pointers on Self-Development
May 24, 2022
39:08
There is a widespread custom to study Pirkei Avos, the Mishnaic Book of the Ethics of our Fathers, between the festivals of Pesach and Shavuot. As we prepare for the reenactment of the Sinai Revelation and the giving of the Torah, we prime ourselves to become worthy vessels for Torah by refining and improving ourselves. […]
11367
Agency, Urgency, Insurgency: Six Powerful Pointers on Self-Development
Agency, Urgency, Insurgency: Six Powerful Pointers on Self-Development
May 24, 2022
39:08
There is a widespread custom to study Pirkei Avos, the Mishnaic Book of the Ethics of our Fathers, between the festivals of Pesach and Shavuot. As we prepare for the reenactment of the Sinai Revelation and the giving of the Torah, we prime ourselves to become worthy vessels for Torah by refining and improving ourselves. […]
11368
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
May 29, 2022
39:28
Shavuos is the day that marks the most significant event in the history of humankind: A nation coalesced around Mount Sinai to temporarily catapult into a state of prophecy, to hear God say the Ten Commandments, and to live to tell the tale. Shavuos is thus aptly named, “the Day of the Giving of the […]
11369
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
Shavuos: The Time to Become Extraordinary
May 29, 2022
39:28
Shavuos is the day that marks the most significant event in the history of humankind: A nation coalesced around Mount Sinai to temporarily catapult into a state of prophecy, to hear God say the Ten Commandments, and to live to tell the tale. Shavuos is thus aptly named, “the Day of the Giving of the […]
11370
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
Jun 2, 2022
1:01:46
The Book of Ruth – and its eponymous heroine – are true enigmas. The Book contains no new laws and its story, while inspirational and poignant, bears no easily discernible connection to the Festival of Shavuos, when it is read. The Book’s protagonist, Ruth, has a decidedly checkered pedigree, yet becomes the matriarch of the […]
11371
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
Ruth: The Enduring Lesson of Shavuos
Jun 2, 2022
1:01:46
The Book of Ruth – and its eponymous heroine – are true enigmas. The Book contains no new laws and its story, while inspirational and poignant, bears no easily discernible connection to the Festival of Shavuos, when it is read. The Book’s protagonist, Ruth, has a decidedly checkered pedigree, yet becomes the matriarch of the […]
11372
Six Questions for Shavuos
Six Questions for Shavuos
Jun 3, 2022
1:03:08
The Festival of Shavuos marks the anniversary of the greatest event in all of human history: the Revelation at Sinai. This momentous event never happened before history and was never replicated. God spoke to an entire nation. They heard His voice and lived to tell the tale. In our liturgy, this festival is known as […]
11373
Six Questions for Shavuos
Six Questions for Shavuos
Jun 3, 2022
1:03:08
The Festival of Shavuos marks the anniversary of the greatest event in all of human history: the Revelation at Sinai. This momentous event never happened before history and was never replicated. God spoke to an entire nation. They heard His voice and lived to tell the tale. In our liturgy, this festival is known as […]
11374
Mezuzah: A Deep Dive
Mezuzah: A Deep Dive
Jun 28, 2022
52:42
The mezuzah that graces the doorposts of every Jewish home is perhaps our most recognizable mitzvah. But what exactly is a mezuzah? What is its power? How does it change the Jewish home and the Jewish experience? In This very special podcast episode, we take a deep and profound look at the Mezuzah to discover […]
11375
Mezuzah: A Deep Dive
Mezuzah: A Deep Dive
Jun 28, 2022
52:42
The mezuzah that graces the doorposts of every Jewish home is perhaps our most recognizable mitzvah. But what exactly is a mezuzah? What is its power? How does it change the Jewish home and the Jewish experience? In This very special podcast episode, we take a deep and profound look at the Mezuzah to discover […]
11376
The Righteous Soul, its Travails and Destiny
The Righteous Soul, its Travails and Destiny
Aug 9, 2022
40:52
Where does the soul come from and to where is it going? This is a question that we don’t think about often, but it is of vital importance if we want to spiritually succeed in life. In this sprawling episode – originally recorded in 2016 and only released now – we examine the soul, what […]
11377
The Righteous Soul, its Travails and Destiny
The Righteous Soul, its Travails and Destiny
Aug 9, 2022
40:52
Where does the soul come from and to where is it going? This is a question that we don’t think about often, but it is of vital importance if we want to spiritually succeed in life. In this sprawling episode – originally recorded in 2016 and only released now – we examine the soul, what […]
11378
The Power and Opportunity of Elul
The Power and Opportunity of Elul
Sep 1, 2022
32:39
These 40 days from the beginning of the month of Elul, the final month in the Jewish calendar, and Yom Kippur are the most powerful days of the year. These 40 days coincide with the 40 days that Moshe was in Heaven for the third 40 day stint when he received the second set of […]
11379
The Power and Opportunity of Elul
The Power and Opportunity of Elul
Sep 1, 2022
32:39
These 40 days from the beginning of the month of Elul, the final month in the Jewish calendar, and Yom Kippur are the most powerful days of the year. These 40 days coincide with the 40 days that Moshe was in Heaven for the third 40 day stint when he received the second set of […]
11380
The Spiritual Edifice
The Spiritual Edifice
Sep 6, 2022
35:26
The Jewish holiday calendar is not evenly distributed. Mush of our Festivals are clumped together in one month, followed by a long winter with few special days, none of them of Biblical origin. Our Sages explain that the clustering of the High Holidays and the Festival of Sukkot is no coincidence. These days constitute one, […]
11381
The Spiritual Edifice
The Spiritual Edifice
Sep 6, 2022
35:26
The Jewish holiday calendar is not evenly distributed. Mush of our Festivals are clumped together in one month, followed by a long winter with few special days, none of them of Biblical origin. Our Sages explain that the clustering of the High Holidays and the Festival of Sukkot is no coincidence. These days constitute one, […]
11382
Rabbi Nosson Dubin on the Recent Kosher Restaurant Scandal
Rabbi Nosson Dubin on the Recent Kosher Restaurant Scandal
Sep 15, 2022
1:14:15
Tastewise, kosher chicken and non-kosher chicken are indistinguishable. When it comes to the price tag, these two fowls are drastically different. The discrepancy in price creates an incentive for unscrupulous restaurateurs. If you can buy chicken at the non-kosher price, and sell it at the kosher price, you can juice your profits by a large […]
11383
Rabbi Nosson Dubin on the Recent Kosher Restaurant Scandal
Rabbi Nosson Dubin on the Recent Kosher Restaurant Scandal
Sep 15, 2022
1:14:15
Tastewise, kosher chicken and non-kosher chicken are indistinguishable. When it comes to the price tag, these two fowls are drastically different. The discrepancy in price creates an incentive for unscrupulous restaurateurs. If you can buy chicken at the non-kosher price, and sell it at the kosher price, you can juice your profits by a large […]
11384
The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
Sep 20, 2022
50:21
In addition to the many other themes and motifs of the day, Rosh Hashana is called the Day of Judgment. The Mishnah tells us that on Rosh Hashana every human has an individual audience with the Almighty in the same way that a shepherd counts each sheep individually. The judgment is comprehensive: all of a […]
11385
The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
The Judgment of Rosh Hashana
Sep 20, 2022
50:21
In addition to the many other themes and motifs of the day, Rosh Hashana is called the Day of Judgment. The Mishnah tells us that on Rosh Hashana every human has an individual audience with the Almighty in the same way that a shepherd counts each sheep individually. The judgment is comprehensive: all of a […]
11386
The Meaning and Mystery of the Rosh Hashana Foods and Fruits
The Meaning and Mystery of the Rosh Hashana Foods and Fruits
Sep 23, 2022
40:02
On the night of Rosh Hashana in Jewish homes the world over, a strange set of customs are observed. We take an apple, dip it into honey, and declare that we should have a sweet new year. We take a pomegranate, disgorge it’s seeds, consume them and pray that we be filled with merits like […]
11387
The Meaning and Mystery of the Rosh Hashana Foods and Fruits
The Meaning and Mystery of the Rosh Hashana Foods and Fruits
Sep 23, 2022
40:02
On the night of Rosh Hashana in Jewish homes the world over, a strange set of customs are observed. We take an apple, dip it into honey, and declare that we should have a sweet new year. We take a pomegranate, disgorge it’s seeds, consume them and pray that we be filled with merits like […]
11388
The Eight Wonders of Repentance
The Eight Wonders of Repentance
Sep 29, 2022
59:50
Our Sages enumerates a list of seven things that preceded the world. Included in this list is repentance. Why was it necessary to create repentance before the creation of the world? In this podcast we speculate an answer: repentance is a supernatural miracle that thoroughly violates the rules of this world, and therefore once the […]
11389
The Eight Wonders of Repentance
The Eight Wonders of Repentance
Sep 29, 2022
59:50
Our Sages enumerates a list of seven things that preceded the world. Included in this list is repentance. Why was it necessary to create repentance before the creation of the world? In this podcast we speculate an answer: repentance is a supernatural miracle that thoroughly violates the rules of this world, and therefore once the […]
11390
The Secret of the Scapegoat
The Secret of the Scapegoat
Oct 2, 2022
1:03:34
One of the most mysterious elements of the Yom Kippur ceremony is the scapegoat ceremony. The High priest took two identical male goats and made a lottery, one was offered as a sacrifice to God in the Temple, and the other one was a scapegoat, upon which the sins of the nation were conferred and […]
11391
The Secret of the Scapegoat
The Secret of the Scapegoat
Oct 2, 2022
1:03:34
One of the most mysterious elements of the Yom Kippur ceremony is the scapegoat ceremony. The High priest took two identical male goats and made a lottery, one was offered as a sacrifice to God in the Temple, and the other one was a scapegoat, upon which the sins of the nation were conferred and […]
11392
The Alchemy of Yom Kippur
The Alchemy of Yom Kippur
Oct 4, 2022
45:33
Yom Kippur is the greatest day of the year. The name of book of Talmud that orients around Yom Kippur is Yoma, meaning “Day.” This is The Day when everything changes. On this day, the Almighty is close to us. On this day, He extends purification and forgiveness to us. On this day, God purifies […]
11393
The Alchemy of Yom Kippur
The Alchemy of Yom Kippur
Oct 4, 2022
45:33
Yom Kippur is the greatest day of the year. The name of book of Talmud that orients around Yom Kippur is Yoma, meaning “Day.” This is The Day when everything changes. On this day, the Almighty is close to us. On this day, He extends purification and forgiveness to us. On this day, God purifies […]
11394
Sukkos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Sukkos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Oct 13, 2022
1:06:13
In honor of the festival of Sukkot, I gathered together with some of my TORCH podcaster colleagues to chat about the festival, it’s meaning, and lessons. Each one of us got an opportunity to share an idea on the festival, and to promote our respective podcast(s). In a decision that compromised the audio quality, we […]
11395
Sukkos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Sukkos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Oct 13, 2022
1:06:13
In honor of the festival of Sukkot, I gathered together with some of my TORCH podcaster colleagues to chat about the festival, it’s meaning, and lessons. Each one of us got an opportunity to share an idea on the festival, and to promote our respective podcast(s). In a decision that compromised the audio quality, we […]
11396
The Sukkos/Shemini Atzeres Revelation
The Sukkos/Shemini Atzeres Revelation
Oct 16, 2022
46:25
The Sukkah that we dwell in for 7 days is a reenactment of the Clouds of Glory that enshrouded the nation for 40 years. Starting right after the Exodus, the nation was cocooned in miraculous clouds. These clouds flattened mountains, filled in valleys, and eliminated any threats. The clouds signal journeys, cleaned and ironed clothes, […]
11397
The Sukkos/Shemini Atzeres Revelation
The Sukkos/Shemini Atzeres Revelation
Oct 16, 2022
46:25
The Sukkah that we dwell in for 7 days is a reenactment of the Clouds of Glory that enshrouded the nation for 40 years. Starting right after the Exodus, the nation was cocooned in miraculous clouds. These clouds flattened mountains, filled in valleys, and eliminated any threats. The clouds signal journeys, cleaned and ironed clothes, […]
11398
The Secret of the Month of Cheshvan with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Cheshvan with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Oct 26, 2022
56:19
Each of the twelve months in the Jewish calendar contain a unique spiritual energy and power. The power of each month, encapsulated in a zodiac sign, is often represented in the holidays, festivals, and noteworthy days of said month. The month that just concluded, Tishrei, is jam packed with days of note: Rosh Hashana, Yom […]
11399
The Secret of the Month of Cheshvan with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Cheshvan with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Oct 26, 2022
56:19
Each of the twelve months in the Jewish calendar contain a unique spiritual energy and power. The power of each month, encapsulated in a zodiac sign, is often represented in the holidays, festivals, and noteworthy days of said month. The month that just concluded, Tishrei, is jam packed with days of note: Rosh Hashana, Yom […]
11400
Make Your Case: The Imperative for Divine Entreatment
Make Your Case: The Imperative for Divine Entreatment
Oct 31, 2022
48:35
In this podcast you will learn something that is simultaneously exhilaratingly exciting and angst-inducingly terrifying. You will learn how someone can have a winning lottery ticket and fail to cash it. You will learn about the small trigger that is needed to actualize our blessings and potential. This is a very important lesson that we […]