Popular Shows by TORCH הרב אריה וולבה
20826 episodes
#
Name
Release Date
Duration
11501
Book of Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapter 1)
Book of Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapter 1)
Oct 6, 2019
1:10:35
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 […]
11502
Book of Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapter 1)
Book of Jonah: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapter 1)
Oct 6, 2019
1:10:35
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 […]
11503
Book of Jonah Part Two: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapters 2-4)
Book of Jonah Part Two: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapters 2-4)
Oct 28, 2019
1:05:51
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 […]
11504
Book of Jonah Part Two: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapters 2-4)
Book of Jonah Part Two: Studying the Yom Kippur Reading on a Deeper Level (Chapters 2-4)
Oct 28, 2019
1:05:51
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 […]
11505
Why Gratitude Matters + FREE TORCH Gift
Why Gratitude Matters + FREE TORCH Gift
Dec 3, 2019
53:12
Gratitude is a character trait that is universally lauded. In Torah Literature it is, of course, a central characteristic of the righteous, and even the secular world has adopted it as an admirable virtue. But when we examine the Torah sources we discover that gratitude is not only about being nice and pleasant, it lies […]
11506
Why Gratitude Matters + FREE TORCH Gift
Why Gratitude Matters + FREE TORCH Gift
Dec 3, 2019
53:12
Gratitude is a character trait that is universally lauded. In Torah Literature it is, of course, a central characteristic of the righteous, and even the secular world has adopted it as an admirable virtue. But when we examine the Torah sources we discover that gratitude is not only about being nice and pleasant, it lies […]
11507
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs
Dec 23, 2019
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; […]
11508
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs
Chanukah: History, Laws, and Customs
Dec 23, 2019
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; […]
11509
Kindling the Jewish Soul: Understanding the Deeper Meaning of the Menorah: (Recorded Live in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada)
Kindling the Jewish Soul: Understanding the Deeper Meaning of the Menorah: (Recorded Live in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada)
Dec 26, 2019
53:57
This unique podcast was recorded live at the Aish Thornhill Community Shul on the third day of Chanukah 5780. In the talk we suggest a cogent and unified explanation of the festival of Chanukah, and specifically, of the menorah candles. We begin by noting the many differences between the Chanukah candles and the other rabbinic mitzvah […]
11510
Kindling the Jewish Soul: Understanding the Deeper Meaning of the Menorah: (Recorded Live in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada)
Kindling the Jewish Soul: Understanding the Deeper Meaning of the Menorah: (Recorded Live in Thornhill, Ontario, Canada)
Dec 26, 2019
53:57
This unique podcast was recorded live at the Aish Thornhill Community Shul on the third day of Chanukah 5780. In the talk we suggest a cogent and unified explanation of the festival of Chanukah, and specifically, of the menorah candles. We begin by noting the many differences between the Chanukah candles and the other rabbinic mitzvah […]
11511
Age of the Universe: Can Torah and Science be Reconciled?
Age of the Universe: Can Torah and Science be Reconciled?
Feb 19, 2020
42:36
According to Jewish tradition, 2020 is the year 5780. Science estimates the age of the universe to be somewhere between 13.8-15.4 billion years. In this podcast, we will share a brilliant reconciliation sourced from centuries-old Kabbalistic books. The Shema Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-shema-podcast/id1498489422 Daf Yomi Breakneck Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daf-yomi-breakneck-with-rabbi-elchanan-shoff/id1494823922 TORCH Shabbat Light Switch Cover Please visit our website torchweb.org to […]
11512
Age of the Universe: Can Torah and Science be Reconciled?
Age of the Universe: Can Torah and Science be Reconciled?
Feb 19, 2020
42:36
According to Jewish tradition, 2020 is the year 5780. Science estimates the age of the universe to be somewhere between 13.8-15.4 billion years. In this podcast, we will share a brilliant reconciliation sourced from centuries-old Kabbalistic books. The Shema Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-shema-podcast/id1498489422 Daf Yomi Breakneck Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daf-yomi-breakneck-with-rabbi-elchanan-shoff/id1494823922 TORCH Shabbat Light Switch Cover Please visit our website torchweb.org to […]
11513
A Grandson Remembers: Reflections, Stories, and Lessons of Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe
A Grandson Remembers: Reflections, Stories, and Lessons of Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe
Mar 3, 2020
1:08:38
My grandfather, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, was one of the 20th Century’s most important rabbis. But unlike many of his contemporaries, he had a very unusual path to becoming the transformative Torah Sage that he became. In this very special and personal podcast episode, I share several never-before-told stories about his life and I speculate several […]
11514
A Grandson Remembers: Reflections, Stories, and Lessons of Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe
A Grandson Remembers: Reflections, Stories, and Lessons of Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe
Mar 3, 2020
1:08:38
My grandfather, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, was one of the 20th Century’s most important rabbis. But unlike many of his contemporaries, he had a very unusual path to becoming the transformative Torah Sage that he became. In this very special and personal podcast episode, I share several never-before-told stories about his life and I speculate several […]
11515
Plagues, Epidemics, and Quarantines in Jewish Philosophy
Plagues, Epidemics, and Quarantines in Jewish Philosophy
Mar 23, 2020
1:29:02
We are living in extraordinary times and facing unprecedented challenges: The coronavirus is upending everyday life in a way that we have never seen in our lifetime. People are scared, people are quarantined, markets are plummeting, schools are off, shuls and yeshivos are shuttered, no one can get toilet paper or bottled water – our […]
11516
Plagues, Epidemics, and Quarantines in Jewish Philosophy
Plagues, Epidemics, and Quarantines in Jewish Philosophy
Mar 23, 2020
1:29:02
We are living in extraordinary times and facing unprecedented challenges: The coronavirus is upending everyday life in a way that we have never seen in our lifetime. People are scared, people are quarantined, markets are plummeting, schools are off, shuls and yeshivos are shuttered, no one can get toilet paper or bottled water – our […]
11517
The Essence of Pesach
The Essence of Pesach
Mar 29, 2020
1:11:33
The Festival of Pesach is described as, “The time of our Freedom”, and “The Festival of Matzos.” What is the essence of these days? What is the distinct power that we can tap into over the course of this 8-day Festival? In this special pre-Pesach episode, we learn the central point of the Festival that […]
11518
The Essence of Pesach
The Essence of Pesach
Mar 29, 2020
1:11:33
The Festival of Pesach is described as, “The time of our Freedom”, and “The Festival of Matzos.” What is the essence of these days? What is the distinct power that we can tap into over the course of this 8-day Festival? In this special pre-Pesach episode, we learn the central point of the Festival that […]
11519
The Four Sons of the Seder: Strategies to Motivate all types of Children
The Four Sons of the Seder: Strategies to Motivate all types of Children
Apr 2, 2020
49:16
The Torah provides four verses that describe the appropriate conversations fathers should have with their sons on Pesach Eve. The Haggadah explains that each conversation refers to a different type of son. There is a distinct dialogue with the wise son, the wicked son, the simple son, and the son who does not know how […]
11520
The Four Sons of the Seder: Strategies to Motivate all types of Children
The Four Sons of the Seder: Strategies to Motivate all types of Children
Apr 2, 2020
49:16
The Torah provides four verses that describe the appropriate conversations fathers should have with their sons on Pesach Eve. The Haggadah explains that each conversation refers to a different type of son. There is a distinct dialogue with the wise son, the wicked son, the simple son, and the son who does not know how […]
11521
Spiritual Opportunism: A Special Shiur for Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe’s Yahrtzeit
Spiritual Opportunism: A Special Shiur for Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe’s Yahrtzeit
Apr 12, 2020
26:14
It has been 15 years since my illustrious grandfather, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, passed away, on the first day of Chol HaMoed Pesach 2005. In this special shiur to mark his yahrtzeit, we speculate the ways that he became great and take a very valuable lesson on how to become great ourselves during this coronavirus pandemic. […]
11522
Spiritual Opportunism: A Special Shiur for Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe’s Yahrtzeit
Spiritual Opportunism: A Special Shiur for Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe’s Yahrtzeit
Apr 12, 2020
26:14
It has been 15 years since my illustrious grandfather, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe, passed away, on the first day of Chol HaMoed Pesach 2005. In this special shiur to mark his yahrtzeit, we speculate the ways that he became great and take a very valuable lesson on how to become great ourselves during this coronavirus pandemic. […]
11523
Bamidbar and Shavuos: The Indispensability of each Jew
Bamidbar and Shavuos: The Indispensability of each Jew
May 21, 2020
56:24
Parshas Bamidbar is the Torah portion that we read immediately prior to Shavuos, the Festival of the Giving of the Torah, each year. In this special episode, we offer a mind-bending idea to ponder the connection between Shavuos and Parshas Bamidbar. To aid with visualizing the contents of this unique episode, please download the accompanying […]
11524
Bamidbar and Shavuos: The Indispensability of each Jew
Bamidbar and Shavuos: The Indispensability of each Jew
May 21, 2020
56:24
Parshas Bamidbar is the Torah portion that we read immediately prior to Shavuos, the Festival of the Giving of the Torah, each year. In this special episode, we offer a mind-bending idea to ponder the connection between Shavuos and Parshas Bamidbar. To aid with visualizing the contents of this unique episode, please download the accompanying […]
11525
The Essence of Tisha B’Av
The Essence of Tisha B’Av
Jul 22, 2020
31:30
Tisha B’Av (The Ninth of Av) is the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. On this day, the Spies returned from scouting the Land and spooked the Nation with their evil report prompting the Nation to needlessly bewail their fate the entire night. As retribution, God pledged: “You cried on this night for no reason, […]
11526
The Essence of Tisha B’Av
The Essence of Tisha B’Av
Jul 22, 2020
31:30
Tisha B’Av (The Ninth of Av) is the saddest day in the Jewish calendar. On this day, the Spies returned from scouting the Land and spooked the Nation with their evil report prompting the Nation to needlessly bewail their fate the entire night. As retribution, God pledged: “You cried on this night for no reason, […]
11527
An Invitation to The Afterlife (4:21-2)
An Invitation to The Afterlife (4:21-2)
Aug 4, 2020
1:10:09
We all recognize that we will eventually die. Each of us know that there will come a point in time where our body and Soul separate and go their own way. The body will return to its origin, the dust, and the Soul will return to its Heavenly roots. What happens to our Soul in […]
11528
An Invitation to The Afterlife (4:21-2)
An Invitation to The Afterlife (4:21-2)
Aug 4, 2020
1:10:09
We all recognize that we will eventually die. Each of us know that there will come a point in time where our body and Soul separate and go their own way. The body will return to its origin, the dust, and the Soul will return to its Heavenly roots. What happens to our Soul in […]
11529
The Shabbat Gift
The Shabbat Gift
Aug 19, 2020
46:46
The laws of Shabbat are vast and seemingly draconian. A study of its laws reveal a comprehensive governance of every aspect of our lives on Shabbat. The Talmud even declares that greetings one’s fellow on Shabbat is “barely permitted.” To an outsider looking in, the laws of Shabbat are crippling and limiting. The Talmud offers […]
11530
The Shabbat Gift
The Shabbat Gift
Aug 19, 2020
46:46
The laws of Shabbat are vast and seemingly draconian. A study of its laws reveal a comprehensive governance of every aspect of our lives on Shabbat. The Talmud even declares that greetings one’s fellow on Shabbat is “barely permitted.” To an outsider looking in, the laws of Shabbat are crippling and limiting. The Talmud offers […]
11531
Thanks a Million!
Thanks a Million!
Sep 9, 2020
32:31
Of all the episodes that I have recorded over the years, this will be perhaps the most unique one. For one, it will be released simultaneously on all 6 channels that I am fortunate enough to host: The Parsha Podcast, The Jewish History Podcast, The Mitzvah Podcast , This Jewish Life, The Ethics Podcast, and […]
11532
Thanks a Million!
Thanks a Million!
Sep 9, 2020
32:31
Of all the episodes that I have recorded over the years, this will be perhaps the most unique one. For one, it will be released simultaneously on all 6 channels that I am fortunate enough to host: The Parsha Podcast, The Jewish History Podcast, The Mitzvah Podcast , This Jewish Life, The Ethics Podcast, and […]
11533
Rosh Hashana Reading (1st day – Genesis Chapter 21)
Rosh Hashana Reading (1st day – Genesis Chapter 21)
Sep 13, 2020
59:55
The Torah readings for the two days of Rosh Hashana were not arbitrarily chosen. There are very good reasons why on the first day of Rosh Hashana we read Genesis chapter 21, which tells of the conception and birth of Isaac, and the banishment of Ishmael, his brush with death, and his salvation. In this […]
11534
Rosh Hashana Reading (1st day – Genesis Chapter 21)
Rosh Hashana Reading (1st day – Genesis Chapter 21)
Sep 13, 2020
59:55
The Torah readings for the two days of Rosh Hashana were not arbitrarily chosen. There are very good reasons why on the first day of Rosh Hashana we read Genesis chapter 21, which tells of the conception and birth of Isaac, and the banishment of Ishmael, his brush with death, and his salvation. In this […]
11535
Rosh Hashana Reading (2nd day – Genesis Chapter 22: The Binding of Isaac)
Rosh Hashana Reading (2nd day – Genesis Chapter 22: The Binding of Isaac)
Sep 14, 2020
54:36
On the second day of Rosh Hashana, we read the Torah section of Genesis chapter 22 that tells the very famous and quite troubling episode of the Binding of Isaac. Abraham – the same Abraham who railed against the ways of child sacrifice of the pagans – is instructed by God to take Isaac – the same Isaac […]
11536
Rosh Hashana Reading (2nd day – Genesis Chapter 22: The Binding of Isaac)
Rosh Hashana Reading (2nd day – Genesis Chapter 22: The Binding of Isaac)
Sep 14, 2020
54:36
On the second day of Rosh Hashana, we read the Torah section of Genesis chapter 22 that tells the very famous and quite troubling episode of the Binding of Isaac. Abraham – the same Abraham who railed against the ways of child sacrifice of the pagans – is instructed by God to take Isaac – the same Isaac […]
11537
The Repentance Continuum
The Repentance Continuum
Sep 23, 2020
41:42
The Ten Days of Repentance, beginning with the two days of Rosh Hashana and culminating in Yom Kippur, are the season of repentance in the Jewish calendar. On these days, the Almighty is close to us. Our prayers are more efficacious. Our spiritual accomplishments are amplified and accelerated during these powerful, awesome days. Our Sages […]
11538
The Repentance Continuum
The Repentance Continuum
Sep 23, 2020
41:42
The Ten Days of Repentance, beginning with the two days of Rosh Hashana and culminating in Yom Kippur, are the season of repentance in the Jewish calendar. On these days, the Almighty is close to us. Our prayers are more efficacious. Our spiritual accomplishments are amplified and accelerated during these powerful, awesome days. Our Sages […]
11539
The Sukkah and The Lulav
The Sukkah and The Lulav
Oct 1, 2020
58:45
The two mitzvos of the Festival of Sukkos (Sukkot) are the shaking of the Lulav and the Four Species and the dwelling in the Sukkah. What is the deeper meaning behind these mitzvos? In this special pre-Festival episode, we examine the two mitzvos of Sukkos and see what they teach us about the Festival in […]
11540
The Sukkah and The Lulav
The Sukkah and The Lulav
Oct 1, 2020
58:45
The two mitzvos of the Festival of Sukkos (Sukkot) are the shaking of the Lulav and the Four Species and the dwelling in the Sukkah. What is the deeper meaning behind these mitzvos? In this special pre-Festival episode, we examine the two mitzvos of Sukkos and see what they teach us about the Festival in […]
11541
The Shabbat Dinner: Customs, Rituals, and Practices
The Shabbat Dinner: Customs, Rituals, and Practices
Dec 7, 2020
59:09
Shabbat is the beating heart of the Jewish family and the Jewish week. It is the portal through which the spiritual vitality for the entire week flows. This podcast idea was proposed in my email newsletter (visit rabbiwolbe.com/newsletter to subscribe). I had thrown out the idea of going through a Shabbat dinner and detailing all […]
11542
The Shabbat Dinner: Customs, Rituals, and Practices
The Shabbat Dinner: Customs, Rituals, and Practices
Dec 7, 2020
59:09
Shabbat is the beating heart of the Jewish family and the Jewish week. It is the portal through which the spiritual vitality for the entire week flows. This podcast idea was proposed in my email newsletter (visit rabbiwolbe.com/newsletter to subscribe). I had thrown out the idea of going through a Shabbat dinner and detailing all […]
11543
Chanukah and Joseph
Chanukah and Joseph
Dec 11, 2020
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 […]
11544
Chanukah and Joseph
Chanukah and Joseph
Dec 11, 2020
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 […]
11545
Tu B’Shevat: The Essence of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Tu B’Shevat: The Essence of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Jan 25, 2021
58:05
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 […]
11546
Tu B’Shevat: The Essence of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Tu B’Shevat: The Essence of the Rosh Hashana for Trees
Jan 25, 2021
58:05
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 […]
11547
A Life of Joy
A Life of Joy
Feb 19, 2021
35:14
When Adar enters, we increase in Joy (Talmud Taanis 29a). Adar, the month in which contains the Festival of Purim, kickstarts the season on joy in the Jewish calendar. On this month we were saved from Haman’s genocide, and it is closely followed by Nissan, the month of the Exodus. What does the Torah mean […]
11548
A Life of Joy
A Life of Joy
Feb 19, 2021
35:14
When Adar enters, we increase in Joy (Talmud Taanis 29a). Adar, the month in which contains the Festival of Purim, kickstarts the season on joy in the Jewish calendar. On this month we were saved from Haman’s genocide, and it is closely followed by Nissan, the month of the Exodus. What does the Torah mean […]
11549
Esther on an Allegorical Level
Esther on an Allegorical Level
Feb 22, 2021
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 […]
11550
Esther on an Allegorical Level
Esther on an Allegorical Level
Feb 22, 2021
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 […]
11551
Havdalah and its Secrets + TORCH Fundraiser
Havdalah and its Secrets + TORCH Fundraiser
Mar 2, 2021
1:01:54
Please support This Jewish Life Podcast and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED Show your support for TORCH and This Jewish Life Podcast and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
11552
Havdalah and its Secrets + TORCH Fundraiser
Havdalah and its Secrets + TORCH Fundraiser
Mar 2, 2021
1:01:54
Please support This Jewish Life Podcast and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED Show your support for TORCH and This Jewish Life Podcast and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
11553
TORCH Fundraiser: A Conversation with our Board President, Dan Kullman
TORCH Fundraiser: A Conversation with our Board President, Dan Kullman
Mar 4, 2021
24:30
Please support The TORCH Podcasts and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED Show your support for TORCH and the TORCH Podcasts and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
11554
TORCH Fundraiser: A Conversation with our Board President, Dan Kullman
TORCH Fundraiser: A Conversation with our Board President, Dan Kullman
Mar 4, 2021
24:30
Please support The TORCH Podcasts and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED Show your support for TORCH and the TORCH Podcasts and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
11555
Reflections on Loss, Tragedy, and Bereavement: An Interview with Esther Kaplan (Part 1: March 2018)
Reflections on Loss, Tragedy, and Bereavement: An Interview with Esther Kaplan (Part 1: March 2018)
Apr 5, 2021
1:08:01
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. In this intimate and stirring conversation Esther shares the story of Shlomo’s life and opens up about how parents absorb and process such an […]
11556
Reflections on Loss, Tragedy, and Bereavement: An Interview with Esther Kaplan (Part 1: March 2018)
Reflections on Loss, Tragedy, and Bereavement: An Interview with Esther Kaplan (Part 1: March 2018)
Apr 5, 2021
1:08:01
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. In this intimate and stirring conversation Esther shares the story of Shlomo’s life and opens up about how parents absorb and process such an […]
11557
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 […]
11558
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 […]
11559
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. […]
11560
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. […]
11561
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 […]
11562
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 […]
11563
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 […]
11564
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 […]
11565
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 […]
11566
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 […]
11567
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 […]
11568
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 […]
11569
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 […]
11570
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 […]
11571
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 […]
11572
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 […]
11573
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 […]
11574
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 […]
11575
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 […]
11576
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 […]
11577
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 […]
11578
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 […]
11579
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 […]
11580
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 […]
11581
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.” […]
11582
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.” […]
11583
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 […]
11584
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 […]
11585
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 […]
11586
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 […]
11587
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. […]
11588
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. […]
11589
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 […]
11590
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 […]
11591
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 […]
11592
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 […]
11593
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 […]
11594
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 […]
11595
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; […]
11596
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; […]
11597
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 […]
11598
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 […]
11599
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 […]
11600
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 […]