Popular Shows by TORCH הרב אריה וולבה
20428 episodes
#
Name
Release Date
Duration
19501
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 […]
19502
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 […]
19503
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 […]
19504
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 […]
19505
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 […]
19506
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, […]
19507
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, […]
19508
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 […]
19509
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 […]
19510
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 […]
19511
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 […]
19512
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 […]
19513
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 […]
19514
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 […]
19515
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 […]
19516
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 […]
19517
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 […]
19518
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 […]
19519
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 […]
19520
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 […]
19521
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 […]
19522
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, […]
19523
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, […]
19524
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 […]
19525
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 […]
19526
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 […]
19527
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 […]
19528
The Secret of the Month of Kislev with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Kislev with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Nov 25, 2022
1:16:58
The most noteworthy days of Month of Kislev are the days of Chanukah that begin on the 25th of Kislev and stretch into the following month of Teves. Chanukah celebrates the victory of the Jewish people over the Greeks and the restoration and the reinauguration of the Temple. But what is the secret of this […]
19529
The Secret of the Month of Kislev with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Kislev with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Nov 25, 2022
1:16:58
The most noteworthy days of Month of Kislev are the days of Chanukah that begin on the 25th of Kislev and stretch into the following month of Teves. Chanukah celebrates the victory of the Jewish people over the Greeks and the restoration and the reinauguration of the Temple. But what is the secret of this […]
19530
Chanukah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Chanukah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Dec 12, 2022
1:05:55
In preparation for the upcoming festival of Chanukah, the TORCH Podcasters gathered together in the TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of light. Each of us shared an idea about Chanukah and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Chanukah with the Podcasters […]
19531
Chanukah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Chanukah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Dec 12, 2022
1:05:55
In preparation for the upcoming festival of Chanukah, the TORCH Podcasters gathered together in the TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of light. Each of us shared an idea about Chanukah and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Chanukah with the Podcasters […]
19532
The Secret of the Month of Teves with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Teves with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Jan 2, 2023
1:04:05
The Month of Teves doesn’t have many memorable days. The only days of note are the last couple of days of Chanukah, and the fast of the 10th of Teves, which commemorates The siege of Jerusalem at the hands of the Babylonians, an event which culminated in the destruction of the First Temple and the […]
19533
The Secret of the Month of Teves with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Teves with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Jan 2, 2023
1:04:05
The Month of Teves doesn’t have many memorable days. The only days of note are the last couple of days of Chanukah, and the fast of the 10th of Teves, which commemorates The siege of Jerusalem at the hands of the Babylonians, an event which culminated in the destruction of the First Temple and the […]
19534
The Secret of the Month of Shevat with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Shevat with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Jan 30, 2023
1:29:20
The Jewish months are replete with secrets and mysteries. Studying the months and their hidden messages reveal to us the power contained with the days and the spiritual energy of the times. The month of Shevat is known for the minor festival at its midpoint, Tu B’Shvat, which is the Rosh Hashana for fruit trees. […]
19535
The Secret of the Month of Shevat with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Shevat with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Jan 30, 2023
1:29:20
The Jewish months are replete with secrets and mysteries. Studying the months and their hidden messages reveal to us the power contained with the days and the spiritual energy of the times. The month of Shevat is known for the minor festival at its midpoint, Tu B’Shvat, which is the Rosh Hashana for fruit trees. […]
19536
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees (Rebroadcast)
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees (Rebroadcast)
Feb 5, 2023
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 […]
19537
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees (Rebroadcast)
Tu B’Shevat: The Secret of the Rosh Hashana for Trees (Rebroadcast)
Feb 5, 2023
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 […]
19538
Ends Justifying Means: An Exploration of the Path of Pleasantness of the Torah
Ends Justifying Means: An Exploration of the Path of Pleasantness of the Torah
Feb 12, 2023
1:03:56
The Jewish people were trapped. Only a week after they left Egypt, Pharaoh had chased them in hot pursuit, and now they had no place to go: with their backs up against the sea, and a heavily armed Egyptian army encircling them, the nation complained to Moshe, “are there insufficient graves in Egypt?”. For his […]
19539
Ends Justifying Means: An Exploration of the Path of Pleasantness of the Torah
Ends Justifying Means: An Exploration of the Path of Pleasantness of the Torah
Feb 12, 2023
1:03:56
The Jewish people were trapped. Only a week after they left Egypt, Pharaoh had chased them in hot pursuit, and now they had no place to go: with their backs up against the sea, and a heavily armed Egyptian army encircling them, the nation complained to Moshe, “are there insufficient graves in Egypt?”. For his […]
19540
The Secret of Parshas Shekalim With Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of Parshas Shekalim With Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Feb 14, 2023
59:52
Please support the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation is DOUBLED. Our organization, TORCH, runs one annual fundraiser, and it is happening right now at giveTORCH.org. We need your support – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – This week […]
19541
The Secret of Parshas Shekalim With Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of Parshas Shekalim With Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Feb 14, 2023
59:52
Please support the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation is DOUBLED. Our organization, TORCH, runs one annual fundraiser, and it is happening right now at giveTORCH.org. We need your support – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – This week […]
19542
Purim Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Purim Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Mar 1, 2023
56:22
In preparation for the upcoming festival of Purim, my colleagues and I gathered together for a roundtable discussion about the power and meaning of the day. It is a joyous day of celebration and revelry, but when we examine it deeply, we discover it is a day of great, transformative, spiritual power. Elevate your Purim […]
19543
Purim Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Purim Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Mar 1, 2023
56:22
In preparation for the upcoming festival of Purim, my colleagues and I gathered together for a roundtable discussion about the power and meaning of the day. It is a joyous day of celebration and revelry, but when we examine it deeply, we discover it is a day of great, transformative, spiritual power. Elevate your Purim […]
19544
The Secret of the Month of Adar with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Adar with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Mar 7, 2023
53:23
“When the month of Adar commences, we increase joy.” This oft-recited Talmudic dictum captures the emotion of this month. Adar is a time of joy due to the Purim miracles. It is also associated with, we discover in this belated month-theme podcast with the great Rabbi Shmuly Botnick, fish, the tribe of Naftali, techeiles, the […]
19545
The Secret of the Month of Adar with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Month of Adar with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Mar 7, 2023
53:23
“When the month of Adar commences, we increase joy.” This oft-recited Talmudic dictum captures the emotion of this month. Adar is a time of joy due to the Purim miracles. It is also associated with, we discover in this belated month-theme podcast with the great Rabbi Shmuly Botnick, fish, the tribe of Naftali, techeiles, the […]
19546
Pesach Roundtable at the TORCH Centre
Pesach Roundtable at the TORCH Centre
Mar 27, 2023
55:44
The Festival of Pesach is upon us. For seven days we will eat Matzah and avoid any traces of chometz. We will gather together with our families around the Seder table and recount the story of the Exodus, retelling and reliving the founding episode of our Nation. In an effort to get in the mode […]
19547
Pesach Roundtable at the TORCH Centre
Pesach Roundtable at the TORCH Centre
Mar 27, 2023
55:44
The Festival of Pesach is upon us. For seven days we will eat Matzah and avoid any traces of chometz. We will gather together with our families around the Seder table and recount the story of the Exodus, retelling and reliving the founding episode of our Nation. In an effort to get in the mode […]
19548
The Secret of the Haggadah with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Haggadah with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Apr 2, 2023
47:42
The Pesach Haggadah guides us through the Seder night and the story of the Exodus. But as is always true in our religion, there are secrets and mysteries lurking beneath the surface. To plumb the esoteric depths of the Haggadah we invited back to the podcast the legend himself, Rabbi Shmuly Botnick. In this podcast […]
19549
The Secret of the Haggadah with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
The Secret of the Haggadah with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Apr 2, 2023
47:42
The Pesach Haggadah guides us through the Seder night and the story of the Exodus. But as is always true in our religion, there are secrets and mysteries lurking beneath the surface. To plumb the esoteric depths of the Haggadah we invited back to the podcast the legend himself, Rabbi Shmuly Botnick. In this podcast […]
19550
Conversion in Jewish Philosophy and Law
Conversion in Jewish Philosophy and Law
Apr 24, 2023
1:54:46
Our forefather Abraham forged a covenant with God: God shows him to be the forefather of the Jewish people, which includes all sorts of Rights and responsibilities. For one, Abraham’s descendants were condemned to be enslaved for 400 years. On the brighter side, the nation became recipients of the Almighty’s Torah and Mitzvos. The nation […]
19551
Conversion in Jewish Philosophy and Law
Conversion in Jewish Philosophy and Law
Apr 24, 2023
1:54:46
Our forefather Abraham forged a covenant with God: God shows him to be the forefather of the Jewish people, which includes all sorts of Rights and responsibilities. For one, Abraham’s descendants were condemned to be enslaved for 400 years. On the brighter side, the nation became recipients of the Almighty’s Torah and Mitzvos. The nation […]
19552
Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
May 22, 2023
1:05:15
Shavuos is the Festival that marks the day of the giving of the Torah. More than 3300 years ago, our nation coalesced around Mount Sinai and we experienced some thing that no other nation has ever experienced: the Almighty spoke to us as a nation and we lived to tell the tale. We heard the […]
19553
Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcasters
May 22, 2023
1:05:15
Shavuos is the Festival that marks the day of the giving of the Torah. More than 3300 years ago, our nation coalesced around Mount Sinai and we experienced some thing that no other nation has ever experienced: the Almighty spoke to us as a nation and we lived to tell the tale. We heard the […]
19554
Accepting the Torah: Ruth, Sinai, and the Heart of Shavuos
Accepting the Torah: Ruth, Sinai, and the Heart of Shavuos
May 24, 2023
1:03:43
The Sinai Revelation is the most significant event in all of human history: God revealed Himself to the entire Jewish people, He spoke to them, He gave them the Torah, and they lived. This day is revisited every single year on the festival of Shavuos. Our objective on this day is to renew our vows […]
19555
Accepting the Torah: Ruth, Sinai, and the Heart of Shavuos
Accepting the Torah: Ruth, Sinai, and the Heart of Shavuos
May 24, 2023
1:03:43
The Sinai Revelation is the most significant event in all of human history: God revealed Himself to the entire Jewish people, He spoke to them, He gave them the Torah, and they lived. This day is revisited every single year on the festival of Shavuos. Our objective on this day is to renew our vows […]
19556
Exploring the Ohr Hachaim Torah Commentary with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Exploring the Ohr Hachaim Torah Commentary with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Jul 4, 2023
1:00:53
The 18th century commentary on the Torah, Ohr HaChaim, is one of the most unique, ingenious, and sprawling works in the Jewish library. In this special podcast, released on the 280th yartzeit of the author of Ohr HaChaim, Rabbi Chaim ibn Attar, Rabbi Shmuly Botnick shares with us a sampling of ideas curated from the […]
19557
Exploring the Ohr Hachaim Torah Commentary with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Exploring the Ohr Hachaim Torah Commentary with Rabbi Shmuly Botnick
Jul 4, 2023
1:00:53
The 18th century commentary on the Torah, Ohr HaChaim, is one of the most unique, ingenious, and sprawling works in the Jewish library. In this special podcast, released on the 280th yartzeit of the author of Ohr HaChaim, Rabbi Chaim ibn Attar, Rabbi Shmuly Botnick shares with us a sampling of ideas curated from the […]
19558
Ep. 1: Foundations, Fathers and Faith: Jewish History From Adam to Moses
Ep. 1: Foundations, Fathers and Faith: Jewish History From Adam to Moses
Sep 2, 2016
54:31
In this maiden episode of The Jewish History Podcast with Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, we begin a five part overview of Jewish History. This format is not an exhaustive accounting of all the copious details of Jewish history; rather we seek to highlight the general themes, trends and personalities of Jewish history. We begin with Adam. What role […]
19559
Ep. 1: Foundations, Fathers and Faith: Jewish History From Adam to Moses
Ep. 1: Foundations, Fathers and Faith: Jewish History From Adam to Moses
Sep 2, 2016
54:31
In this maiden episode of The Jewish History Podcast with Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, we begin a five part overview of Jewish History. This format is not an exhaustive accounting of all the copious details of Jewish history; rather we seek to highlight the general themes, trends and personalities of Jewish history. We begin with Adam. What role […]
19560
Ep. 2: Homeland, Hegemony and Hostility: Jewish History from Joshua to the (Second) Downfall of Jerusalem
Ep. 2: Homeland, Hegemony and Hostility: Jewish History from Joshua to the (Second) Downfall of Jerusalem
Sep 9, 2016
1:14:14
The Torah end with the death of Moshe. The greatest human and leader of all time is no longer there to lead them. How will the Jews fare in his absence? In this expansive episode of The Jewish History Podcast with Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe we tell the story and lessons of Jewish history from the […]
19561
Ep. 2: Homeland, Hegemony and Hostility: Jewish History from Joshua to the (Second) Downfall of Jerusalem
Ep. 2: Homeland, Hegemony and Hostility: Jewish History from Joshua to the (Second) Downfall of Jerusalem
Sep 9, 2016
1:14:14
The Torah end with the death of Moshe. The greatest human and leader of all time is no longer there to lead them. How will the Jews fare in his absence? In this expansive episode of The Jewish History Podcast with Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe we tell the story and lessons of Jewish history from the […]
19562
Ep. 3: Rabbis, Renaissance and Reclamation: Jewish History of the Mishnaic and Talmudic Eras
Ep. 3: Rabbis, Renaissance and Reclamation: Jewish History of the Mishnaic and Talmudic Eras
Sep 15, 2016
1:02:11
Our story begins with a battered and depressed nation in the aftermath of the destruction of Jerusalem and the holy Temple. They experienced tragedy and devastation on a scale never seen before. Immediately after the destruction the process of rebuilding began. There were several key shifts that dramatically altered Jewish life for the better and laid […]
19563
Ep. 3: Rabbis, Renaissance and Reclamation: Jewish History of the Mishnaic and Talmudic Eras
Ep. 3: Rabbis, Renaissance and Reclamation: Jewish History of the Mishnaic and Talmudic Eras
Sep 15, 2016
1:02:11
Our story begins with a battered and depressed nation in the aftermath of the destruction of Jerusalem and the holy Temple. They experienced tragedy and devastation on a scale never seen before. Immediately after the destruction the process of rebuilding began. There were several key shifts that dramatically altered Jewish life for the better and laid […]
19564
Ep. 4: Violence, Vicissitudes and Valiancy: Jewish History in Medieval Times
Ep. 4: Violence, Vicissitudes and Valiancy: Jewish History in Medieval Times
Sep 22, 2016
57:05
The Medieval period would bring enormous changes to the Jewish communities worldwide. It was an era marked by tremendous scholarship and advancement of Torah. Some of the greatest leaders and luminaries that the Jews have ever seen – such as Maimonides and Rashi – make their appearance during this time. But it is also a period […]
19565
Ep. 4: Violence, Vicissitudes and Valiancy: Jewish History in Medieval Times
Ep. 4: Violence, Vicissitudes and Valiancy: Jewish History in Medieval Times
Sep 22, 2016
57:05
The Medieval period would bring enormous changes to the Jewish communities worldwide. It was an era marked by tremendous scholarship and advancement of Torah. Some of the greatest leaders and luminaries that the Jews have ever seen – such as Maimonides and Rashi – make their appearance during this time. But it is also a period […]
19566
Ep. 5: Chaos, Cataclysm and Consolidation: Jewish History in The Modern Era
Ep. 5: Chaos, Cataclysm and Consolidation: Jewish History in The Modern Era
Oct 2, 2016
1:23:08
The Modern Era was a whirlwind of activity for the Jewish people, not all of it positive. The story takes us to Tzfat in northern Israel where a unique community of Torah giants shape the future of our nation. It moves to Poland and the Ukraine where bands of cossacks slaughter and pillage the Jewish […]
19567
Ep. 5: Chaos, Cataclysm and Consolidation: Jewish History in The Modern Era
Ep. 5: Chaos, Cataclysm and Consolidation: Jewish History in The Modern Era
Oct 2, 2016
1:23:08
The Modern Era was a whirlwind of activity for the Jewish people, not all of it positive. The story takes us to Tzfat in northern Israel where a unique community of Torah giants shape the future of our nation. It moves to Poland and the Ukraine where bands of cossacks slaughter and pillage the Jewish […]
19568
Ep. 6: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Akiva
Ep. 6: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Akiva
Nov 2, 2016
51:02
Rabbi Akiva was one of the most legendary and heroic figures in Jewish history. His story and accomplishments continue to inspire. In this podcast we explore the remarkable and riveting life story of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, TX. Please visit torchweb.org for program details and to […]
19569
Ep. 7: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
Ep. 7: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
Nov 9, 2016
45:04
The life, writings and legacy of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai has seen a sensational resurgence in recent years. The annual pilgramage to his gravesite during the week of his hilula attracts more than 500,000 visitors. In this podcast we explore the remarkable and riveting life story of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live […]
19570
Ep. 7: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
Ep. 7: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai
Nov 9, 2016
45:04
The life, writings and legacy of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai has seen a sensational resurgence in recent years. The annual pilgramage to his gravesite during the week of his hilula attracts more than 500,000 visitors. In this podcast we explore the remarkable and riveting life story of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live […]
19571
Ep. 8: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Meir
Ep. 8: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Meir
Nov 16, 2016
45:19
Rabbi Meir was a foundational scholar of the Mishnaic era. In fact, an unattributed mishna are his teachings and he is the third most oft-cited rabbi in the Talmud. In this podcast we explore the remarkable and tragic life story of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, […]
19572
Ep. 8: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Meir
Ep. 8: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Meir
Nov 16, 2016
45:19
Rabbi Meir was a foundational scholar of the Mishnaic era. In fact, an unattributed mishna are his teachings and he is the third most oft-cited rabbi in the Talmud. In this podcast we explore the remarkable and tragic life story of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, […]
19573
Ep. 9: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Judah the Prince
Ep. 9: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Judah the Prince
Nov 23, 2016
44:52
The impact that Rabbi Judah the Prince had on Jewish life was so vast that he is referred to in the Talmud as simply “Rabbi”. In this podcast we explore the remarkable life and accomplishments of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, TX. Please visit torchweb.org for […]
19574
Ep. 9: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Judah the Prince
Ep. 9: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Judah the Prince
Nov 23, 2016
44:52
The impact that Rabbi Judah the Prince had on Jewish life was so vast that he is referred to in the Talmud as simply “Rabbi”. In this podcast we explore the remarkable life and accomplishments of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, TX. Please visit torchweb.org for […]
19575
Ep. 10: Great Jewish Personalities: Hillel
Ep. 10: Great Jewish Personalities: Hillel
Nov 30, 2016
44:14
Hillel the Elder was a transcendental Jewish figure whose name and influence towers above Jewish life until this day. In this podcast we explore the remarkable life, visionary leadership and legendary personal piety of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, TX. Please visit torchweb.org for program details […]
19576
Ep. 10: Great Jewish Personalities: Hillel
Ep. 10: Great Jewish Personalities: Hillel
Nov 30, 2016
44:14
Hillel the Elder was a transcendental Jewish figure whose name and influence towers above Jewish life until this day. In this podcast we explore the remarkable life, visionary leadership and legendary personal piety of this great man. ———- This podcast was recorded live at the TORCH Centre in Houston, TX. Please visit torchweb.org for program details […]
19577
Ep. 11: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai
Ep. 11: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai
Dec 7, 2016
43:01
Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai was the leader of the Jewish people during a most critical and vulnerable time period. His visionary decisions and foresight assured that Torah and the nation will persevere and flourish in the aftermath of tragedy and despair. In this podcast we explore the remarkable scholarship, persona and visionary leadership of this great man. […]
19578
Ep. 11: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai
Ep. 11: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai
Dec 7, 2016
43:01
Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai was the leader of the Jewish people during a most critical and vulnerable time period. His visionary decisions and foresight assured that Torah and the nation will persevere and flourish in the aftermath of tragedy and despair. In this podcast we explore the remarkable scholarship, persona and visionary leadership of this great man. […]
19579
Ep. 12: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Eliezer
Ep. 12: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Eliezer
Dec 14, 2016
45:41
Rabbi Eliezer Ben Hurkenus was among the greatest of the students of Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai. In the words of his teacher, Rabbi Eliezer on one side of the scale would outweigh all the other scholars and sages of Israel on the other side of the scale. He contributed more than any of his peers […]
19580
Ep. 12: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Eliezer
Ep. 12: Great Jewish Personalities: Rabbi Eliezer
Dec 14, 2016
45:41
Rabbi Eliezer Ben Hurkenus was among the greatest of the students of Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai. In the words of his teacher, Rabbi Eliezer on one side of the scale would outweigh all the other scholars and sages of Israel on the other side of the scale. He contributed more than any of his peers […]
19581
Ep. 13: A History of Hanukkah: Hellenism, Heroism and Hasmoneans
Ep. 13: A History of Hanukkah: Hellenism, Heroism and Hasmoneans
Dec 21, 2016
41:32
The holiday of Hanukkah commemorates the triumph of the Maccabean Revolt over the oppressive regime of Antiochus IV and the Seleucid Empire. In this podcast we tell the story of this miraculous victory of the weak over the mighty; the few over the many; the pure over the impure; and the righteous over the wicked. – – – […]
19582
Ep. 13: A History of Hanukkah: Hellenism, Heroism and Hasmoneans
Ep. 13: A History of Hanukkah: Hellenism, Heroism and Hasmoneans
Dec 21, 2016
41:32
The holiday of Hanukkah commemorates the triumph of the Maccabean Revolt over the oppressive regime of Antiochus IV and the Seleucid Empire. In this podcast we tell the story of this miraculous victory of the weak over the mighty; the few over the many; the pure over the impure; and the righteous over the wicked. – – – […]
19583
Ep. 14: Dialogue, Discourse and Disputation: When Rabbis and Romans Debate
Ep. 14: Dialogue, Discourse and Disputation: When Rabbis and Romans Debate
Jan 4, 2017
52:00
The multi-century Roman occupation of Judah spurred much intercourse between the Jews and their overlords. One particular arena of interactions was in the realm of theological and philosophical discourse. The Romans were enamored with the Jewish religion and core beliefs and frequently peppered the great rabbis with questions. They also instituted public academies of interreligious polemics. […]
19584
Ep. 14: Dialogue, Discourse and Disputation: When Rabbis and Romans Debate
Ep. 14: Dialogue, Discourse and Disputation: When Rabbis and Romans Debate
Jan 4, 2017
52:00
The multi-century Roman occupation of Judah spurred much intercourse between the Jews and their overlords. One particular arena of interactions was in the realm of theological and philosophical discourse. The Romans were enamored with the Jewish religion and core beliefs and frequently peppered the great rabbis with questions. They also instituted public academies of interreligious polemics. […]
19585
Ep. 15: Heresy, Hedonism and Hatred: The Rise of The Sadducees
Ep. 15: Heresy, Hedonism and Hatred: The Rise of The Sadducees
Jan 11, 2017
46:30
The Sadducees were a sect of Jews that splintered away from the mainstream during the 2nd Century BC. They are erroneously portrayed as conscientious opposers to a rabbinical overreach by the Sages. In truth, their heresy was not ideological. In this podcast we dive deep into the roots of this movement, its core principles and […]
19586
Ep. 15: Heresy, Hedonism and Hatred: The Rise of The Sadducees
Ep. 15: Heresy, Hedonism and Hatred: The Rise of The Sadducees
Jan 11, 2017
46:30
The Sadducees were a sect of Jews that splintered away from the mainstream during the 2nd Century BC. They are erroneously portrayed as conscientious opposers to a rabbinical overreach by the Sages. In truth, their heresy was not ideological. In this podcast we dive deep into the roots of this movement, its core principles and […]
19587
Ep. 16: The Dead Sea Scrolls: Their Story and Significance
Ep. 16: The Dead Sea Scrolls: Their Story and Significance
Jan 18, 2017
46:23
The most significant archaeological find of the 20th century, and arguably of all-time, was made in Israel, in 1947. Discovered accidentally by a Bedouin shepherd in caves overlooking the Dead Sea, the Dead Sea Scrolls, as they became known, consists of tens of thousands of 2,000 year old scrolls and scroll fragments. This treasure trove of […]
19588
Ep. 16: The Dead Sea Scrolls: Their Story and Significance
Ep. 16: The Dead Sea Scrolls: Their Story and Significance
Jan 18, 2017
46:23
The most significant archaeological find of the 20th century, and arguably of all-time, was made in Israel, in 1947. Discovered accidentally by a Bedouin shepherd in caves overlooking the Dead Sea, the Dead Sea Scrolls, as they became known, consists of tens of thousands of 2,000 year old scrolls and scroll fragments. This treasure trove of […]
19589
Ep. 17: The Early Amoraic Era
Ep. 17: The Early Amoraic Era
Jan 25, 2017
56:50
The Amoraim were the Rabbis and Torah leaders of the 3rd to 5th Century. This era began after the compilation and sealing of the Mishnah, the canon of Jewish laws. Their collective task was to explicate, clarify and ultimately codify the Talmud, the book of everything relating to the laws of the Mishnah; including sources, […]
19590
Ep. 17: The Early Amoraic Era
Ep. 17: The Early Amoraic Era
Jan 25, 2017
56:50
The Amoraim were the Rabbis and Torah leaders of the 3rd to 5th Century. This era began after the compilation and sealing of the Mishnah, the canon of Jewish laws. Their collective task was to explicate, clarify and ultimately codify the Talmud, the book of everything relating to the laws of the Mishnah; including sources, […]
19591
Ep. 18: The Middle Amoraic Era: Setting the Stage for the Babylonian Talmud
Ep. 18: The Middle Amoraic Era: Setting the Stage for the Babylonian Talmud
Feb 1, 2017
42:54
The writing of the Babylonian Talmud was the most significant human project of all time. But it was not the first time that the writing of the Talmud was attempted. In northern Israel, during the third and fourth centuries, the Jerusalem Talmud was written. But catastrophic events transpired to the Torah communities in Israel that halted […]
19592
Ep. 18: The Middle Amoraic Era: Setting the Stage for the Babylonian Talmud
Ep. 18: The Middle Amoraic Era: Setting the Stage for the Babylonian Talmud
Feb 1, 2017
42:54
The writing of the Babylonian Talmud was the most significant human project of all time. But it was not the first time that the writing of the Talmud was attempted. In northern Israel, during the third and fourth centuries, the Jerusalem Talmud was written. But catastrophic events transpired to the Torah communities in Israel that halted […]
19593
Ep. 19: The Late Amoraic Era: The Giants of Babylon and the Writing, Codification and Sealing of the Talmud
Ep. 19: The Late Amoraic Era: The Giants of Babylon and the Writing, Codification and Sealing of the Talmud
Feb 8, 2017
45:08
The Babylonian Talmud was the culmination of several hundred years of Amoraic scholarship. In shorthand it is known as “the discussions of Abaye and Rava” because these two titans contributed more to its arranging than any others. In this podcast we learn about these great Sages and the process of codification of the Talmud. – – – – […]
19594
Ep. 19: The Late Amoraic Era: The Giants of Babylon and the Writing, Codification and Sealing of the Talmud
Ep. 19: The Late Amoraic Era: The Giants of Babylon and the Writing, Codification and Sealing of the Talmud
Feb 8, 2017
45:08
The Babylonian Talmud was the culmination of several hundred years of Amoraic scholarship. In shorthand it is known as “the discussions of Abaye and Rava” because these two titans contributed more to its arranging than any others. In this podcast we learn about these great Sages and the process of codification of the Talmud. – – – – […]
19595
Ep. 20: The Rise of the Muslims
Ep. 20: The Rise of the Muslims
Feb 15, 2017
44:31
After the Talmud was codified and sealed, the Jewish communities worldwide came under protracted assault. There were several interconnected contributing factors to the conflict and turmoil that consumed the world: The Roman Empire was in long-term decline and splintering; the Sasanian Empire had shifting attitudes towards the Jews; there were frequent wars; and there was a rise […]
19596
Ep. 20: The Rise of the Muslims
Ep. 20: The Rise of the Muslims
Feb 15, 2017
44:31
After the Talmud was codified and sealed, the Jewish communities worldwide came under protracted assault. There were several interconnected contributing factors to the conflict and turmoil that consumed the world: The Roman Empire was in long-term decline and splintering; the Sasanian Empire had shifting attitudes towards the Jews; there were frequent wars; and there was a rise […]
19597
Ep. 21: The Early Geonic Era
Ep. 21: The Early Geonic Era
Feb 22, 2017
46:31
The story of the Geonim takes shape at about the same time as the Islamic Empire overruns much of the world, bringing the majority of Jews under their rule. Under the relatively tolerant rule of the Caliphate, the Jewish world flourished and an entire epoch of Torah greatness blossomed. During this period, the Talmud calcified its status […]
19598
Ep. 21: The Early Geonic Era
Ep. 21: The Early Geonic Era
Feb 22, 2017
46:31
The story of the Geonim takes shape at about the same time as the Islamic Empire overruns much of the world, bringing the majority of Jews under their rule. Under the relatively tolerant rule of the Caliphate, the Jewish world flourished and an entire epoch of Torah greatness blossomed. During this period, the Talmud calcified its status […]
19599
Ep. 22: The Middle and Late Geonic Era
Ep. 22: The Middle and Late Geonic Era
Mar 1, 2017
44:31
The Geonic Era spanned for more than 400 years. During this time, the great Yeshivas in Babylon, Sura and Pumpedisa, were universally recognized as the epicenter of Jewish life. Its heads, known as Geonim, together with the political leader of the nation, the Reish Galusa, led the people with great skill. In this episode we look […]
19600
Ep. 22: The Middle and Late Geonic Era
Ep. 22: The Middle and Late Geonic Era
Mar 1, 2017
44:31
The Geonic Era spanned for more than 400 years. During this time, the great Yeshivas in Babylon, Sura and Pumpedisa, were universally recognized as the epicenter of Jewish life. Its heads, known as Geonim, together with the political leader of the nation, the Reish Galusa, led the people with great skill. In this episode we look […]