Popular Shows by TORCH הרב אריה וולבה
20812 episodes
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Name
Release Date
Duration
20101
The Reality Behind Self-Aware A.I. with Rabbi Bucsko
The Reality Behind Self-Aware A.I. with Rabbi Bucsko
Sep 2, 2022
40:04
Recently in the news it was reported that an engineer from Google, tasked with developing Artificial Intelligence or A.I., asserted that the A.I. had become self-aware. This idea has been the storyline for a litany of sci-fi movies for decades. In this episode we are joined by the great and awesome, “Average Rabbi,” Rabbi Bucsko to explore this topic with us through the lens of Torah. ★ Support this podcast ★
20102
The Time to Recalibrate with Rabbi Ari Winkler
The Time to Recalibrate with Rabbi Ari Winkler
Sep 11, 2022
45:45
We are deep in the month of Elul and rapidly approaching Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. I asked my dear friend Rabbi Ari Winkler to join us and teach us, how to optimize this time of year to recalibrate ourselves back to who we truly are so we can bring greater alignment between us and our Infinite and Eternal Creator, our Father, our King. ★ Support this podcast ★
20103
Returning to our Source (Rebroadcast)
Returning to our Source (Rebroadcast)
Oct 3, 2022
1:04:03
The Almighty desires for us to continually strengthen ourselves spiritually so that we can grow closer to Him. Just like a weightlifter intentionally exhausts their muscles under the weights they are lifting so that their muscles will tear and then be rebuilt to be stronger, the Almighty created a framework for us to do the same spiritually. He orchestrates events which create tests for us. Tests to challenge and strengthen ourselves. Even through sin, followed by teshuva, we rebuild ourselves by returning to our source, creating ourselves anew and as a better version than we were prior. In this episode, Rabbi Buscko goes deep into how we can use the gift of Yom Kippur to successfully accomplish this task. ★ Support this podcast ★
20104
In The Sukkah with the TORCH Podcast Team
In The Sukkah with the TORCH Podcast Team
Oct 13, 2022
1:07:55
I had the great honor and privilege of participating in a roundtable discussion on Succos, in Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe’s beautiful Sukkah, with my Rabbis and fellow Torch Podcasters, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Chaim Bucsko. As always, I gained so much from hearing these amazing Rabbi’s insights, walking away with a heightened sense of understanding and appreciation of the festival of Succos. ★ Support this podcast ★
20105
Tearing Through the Illusion – Part I
Tearing Through the Illusion – Part I
Nov 1, 2022
30:22
The greatest mitzvah for a Jew to connect with their Creator is by keeping Shabbos. However, it is the most difficult mitzvah for a Jew to take upon themselves. The reason for its difficulty has nothing to do with the complexities of the halacha but with the fact that the Jew’s Yetzer Hara does not want to give up this beachhead. It will use every measure and tactic possible to keep a Jew from observing this mitzvah. In the episode I discuss the reason the Yetzer Hara goes Defcon 1 on this matter which simultaneously reveals why it is so important for a Jew. The reality is that the arguments of the Yetzer Hara on why one should not keep Shabbos are the exact reasons why a Jew should keep Shabbos. ★ Support this podcast ★
20106
Living Inspired with Nissim Black (Rebroadcast)
Living Inspired with Nissim Black (Rebroadcast)
Nov 10, 2022
33:43
A life centered around Torah is a life dedicated to perpetual transformation and with that comes struggles and challenges. Nissim Black is American-Israeli rapper who has achieved international stardom through his beautiful and inspiring music. His transformation to an Orthodox Jew and likewise the transformation of his music through this process is equally inspiring. He is a Tzadik and a role model for the Jewish people. In this episode, I talk with Nissim Black, and learn about how to grow through living inspired. ★ Support this podcast ★
20107
Rationale Norms vs. Popular Norms with Rebbetzin Trepp
Rationale Norms vs. Popular Norms with Rebbetzin Trepp
Nov 14, 2022
45:24
The problem with the secular world is that the behaviors that are considered “normal” have been in a constant state of fluctuation throughout human history. The reason for the constant state of change of which behaviors are “normal” is that they are determined by popularity rather than reason. In Torah Judaism, the behaviors we aspire to were dictated by our Creator and therefore what we consider to be normal behavior has been a constant for over 3300 years, since the receiving of the Torah. In this episode I ask Rebbetzin Trepp, all the questions that those that are new to Torah Judaism may be wanting to know, but are apprehensive to ask their Rabbis, either out of fear of offending or thinking the subject is taboo. Of course, there are no taboo subjects on the Shema Podcast. So no need to put yourself in an uncomfortable situation as you will get all of these answers on this episode. ★ Support this podcast ★
20108
Rectifying the Erev Rav in Klal Yisrael with Rabbi Cohen
Rectifying the Erev Rav in Klal Yisrael with Rabbi Cohen
Nov 22, 2022
51:51
When B’nai Yisrael left Egypt, they were not alone. Pharoah had also sent out his people, the Erev Rav, the Mixed Multitude. Moshe Rabbeinu converts them to be part of the Jewish people and they became the instigators of the sin of the golden calf, complaining about lack of meat, water and more. The Erev Rav has since been interwoven into the fabric of Klal Yisrael in every generation since. In this episode we are joined by Rabbi Cohen to answer questions like who were these people that Pharoah sent out with us, what was their mission, who is their reincarnation in our current generation and how can we remedy the situation. Rabbi Cohen, drawing from sources in Tanach, Midrash and Zohar, shares amazing insights with powerful lessons and how we serve the Almighty in our current era and bring about the final redemption. ★ Support this podcast ★
20109
Tearing Through the Illusion – Part II
Tearing Through the Illusion – Part II
Dec 4, 2022
46:35
Tearing Through the Illusion Part II The Almighty calls Shabbos a gift for the Jew. However, it is the most difficult mitzvah for a Jew to take upon themselves for the first time as one’s Yetzer Hara will use every tactic possible to dissuade them from doing so. In Part II of this episode I setup a panel discussion with Rabbi Bucsko and his students and we discuss the motivations for them wanting to keep Shabbos, the challenges associated with changing one’s lifestyle to observe this mitzvah and how to develop a personalized road map to receive the gift of Shabbos, that the Almighty is eagerly wanting to give to each of us. ★ Support this podcast ★
20110
To Be A Light Unto The Nations
To Be A Light Unto The Nations
Dec 9, 2022
18:45
Chanukah is a very special time of year for the Jewish people, so I wanted to bring on to the podcast 4 very special guest to share with us their wisdom on our holiday of Chanukah and the message the Almighty wants us to absorb and take with us throughout the year. ★ Support this podcast ★
20111
Chanukah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Chanukah Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Dec 12, 2022
1:07:14
I had the great honor and privilege of participating in a roundtable discussion on Chanukah, at the TORCH Center with my Rabbis and fellow Torch Podcasters, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Chaim Bucsko. The upcoming holiday of Chanukah will be so much richer for me as a result of learning from my beloved Rabbis and I know you will feel the same. ★ Support this podcast ★
20112
It’s All About the Struggle with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
It’s All About the Struggle with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
Dec 18, 2022
30:12
This was an impromptu episode. Rabbi Aryeh was in my office to record a podcast and before we began, I sought his council on a personal matter. It is a concern I have been struggling with for quite some time. I realized in that moment that the purpose of this podcast is to share my struggles and questions with you, so that we can all learn together. I hit the record button before I asked my question and I’m grateful that I did. I believe his words of wisdom can help all of us as we toil in Torah. ★ Support this podcast ★
20113
How to Achieve Prophecy with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
How to Achieve Prophecy with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
Dec 25, 2022
29:56
As we transitioned from the two thousand years of Torah and into the two thousand years of Moshiach, prophecy for the Jewish people waned away. We as a people had to adapt to a world where we could no longer ask our Creator via His prophets for guidance in our daily lives. However, the Almighty did leave in a place a means for Him to convey to us messages when he needs too, in order to keep us all on the proper path towards a successful life. In this episode I have the great Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on to discuss how we can achieve prophecy. ★ Support this podcast ★
20114
The Halacha of Organ Donation with Rabbi Grossman
The Halacha of Organ Donation with Rabbi Grossman
Jan 2, 2023
1:05:06
The Jewish people inherited the spiritual DNA of kindness from our forefather Avraham. It is in the moments when we are giving tzedakah, volunteering our time to help another or fulfilling the mitzvah of saving a life that we feel most aligned with our true selves. However with the subject of organ donations there are many halachic details that we need to be aware of in order to fulfill this mitzvah according to Hashem’s will. In this episode I have Rabbi Yossi Grossman, founder of the Jewish Ethics Institute to teach us what we need to know on this important topic. ★ Support this podcast ★
20115
Closing the Revolving Door to Torah Judaism
Closing the Revolving Door to Torah Judaism
Jan 8, 2023
43:40
Every Jew who was raised in the secular world can identify either grandparents, great grandparents or great-great grandparents that were Torah observant Jews. Somewhere along the way one generation taught to their children how to live as a Jew but not why we live as a Jew and why we know evidentially the divinity of our Torah. That generation then grows up and either in their lifetimes or their children's, they eventually leave Torah observant Judaism. Sadly this phenomena of the Revolving Door of Torah observant Judaism exist today. In this episode I asked Rabbi Nagel to join us and share his wisdom on how we can make the doorway to Torah Observant Judaism a one-way door in. ★ Support this podcast ★
20116
The Holy Bris with Rabbi Cohen (For Men Only - Rebroadcast)
The Holy Bris with Rabbi Cohen (For Men Only - Rebroadcast)
Jan 18, 2023
49:49
This important topic is for men only. Gentlemen, we have a sacred and eternal covenant with the Almighty, the Bris Milah. This contractual arrangement comes with ongoing responsibilities, that if violated will cause a breach of this Holy contract and make our Bris null and void. It is essential for us and the entire Jewish nation to keep our covenant. Tune in and learn from Rabbi Cohen as he discusses the Kabbalistic and Torah insights to the meaning of the Holy Bris. ★ Support this podcast ★
20117
TORCH Due Diligence with the YDH Investment Management Team
TORCH Due Diligence with the YDH Investment Management Team
Jan 24, 2023
59:51
As the President of the Board of TORCH, one of my core responsibilities is to be the representative of the TORCH shareholders, aka the donors. This year instead of conducting my due diligence on my own I decided to go a different route. I not only brought in a team of stock analyst from YDH Investment Management to conduct the due diligence meeting but I recorded the meeting for our listeners and donors. Of course, any Q&A with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe and Rabbi Chaim Bucsko always leads to learning Torah wisdom. https://torchweb.org/support.php ★ Support this podcast ★
20118
Debating (futilely) Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe (Rebroadcast)
Debating (futilely) Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe (Rebroadcast)
Jan 29, 2023
1:11:13
In this episode I take my cherished friend and teacher, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, to task through a barrage of questions challenging him on Torah beliefs and philosophy. With his titan intellect, that was forged through a life dedicated to Torah study, he swatted away my arguments with eloquence, wisdom and humor, leaving me and the listener with a deeper appreciation and understanding of our Torah and heritage. ★ Support this podcast ★
20119
The Business World – The Ultimate Venue for Developing Emunah (Rebroadcast)
The Business World – The Ultimate Venue for Developing Emunah (Rebroadcast)
Feb 5, 2023
32:51
In this discussion we delve into the amazing opportunities that our business endeavors provide to us in developing our understanding of Torah, strengthening our Emunah, and then using our Torah to unleash endless creativity and fearlessness in the marketplace. ★ Support this podcast ★
20120
Strengthening Emunah in the Face of Tragedy with Rabbi Schusterman
Strengthening Emunah in the Face of Tragedy with Rabbi Schusterman
Feb 13, 2023
47:07
Every morning and every night we are commanded to say the Shema prayer in order to internalize that Hashem created the world and is intimately involved with everything in our lives and that everything He does is for our good. This is the idea that He is One. But when tragedy hits, how does one continue to maintain and strengthen their Emunah and Bitachon? In this episode we are joined by Rabbi Gershon Schusterman, author of the book “Why God Why? How to Believe in Heaven when It Hurts Like Hell.” Rabbi Schusterman not only knows this subject academically, as a Rabbi, but through personal experience, as he had to endure earlier in his life, tragically and suddenly, losing his wife. There is tremendous wisdom in what he shares that is of tremendous benefit to all. ★ Support this podcast ★
20121
Purim Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Purim Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Feb 28, 2023
57:32
In this episode my Rabbis and fellow TORCH Podcasters, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe and Rabbi Chaim Bucsko, have a engaging conversation around the upcoming holiday of Purim. ★ Support this podcast ★
20122
The Building Blocks of Creation with Rabbi Cohen
The Building Blocks of Creation with Rabbi Cohen
Mar 5, 2023
42:22
The Hebrew letters are the building blocks of creation. The Torah in Bereishis/Genesis describes G-d creating the world by speaking and those ten emanations from the Creator are continuing throughout time to recreate the worlds and everything in them, in every moment. However there is more to the Hebrew letters than just the sounds they represent as their shapes have tremendous spiritual energies as well. In this episode we are joined by Rabbi Yaakov Cohen and he shares his wisdom on this subject of the meaning of the shapes and sounds of the Hebrew letters, the building blocks of creation. ★ Support this podcast ★
20123
Being Frum in the Business World with David Goldman
Being Frum in the Business World with David Goldman
Mar 17, 2023
43:24
One of the challenges in adapting Torah observance is learning how to be in and advance one’s career in the corporate world without comprising our service to Hashem. The outside world’s definition of a holiday is not remotely the same as what we call a holiday and our business colleagues, managers and clients have a difficult time understanding why we can’t come into the office or return a phone call or email on those days and once a week on Shabbos. We can’t dine with them at business lunches or dinners in their non-kosher restaurants and we have to make time in the afternoon to daven Mincha. In this episode we are joined by my friend David Goldman and we share our personal stories on how to navigate being frum in the business world. ★ Support this podcast ★
20124
Matzah is the Red Pill with Rabbi Wohlgelernter
Matzah is the Red Pill with Rabbi Wohlgelernter
Mar 21, 2023
53:53
Pesach is rapidly approaching. It is the origin and foundation of the Jewish people. We have much symbolism we encounter at the Pesach Seder and while Matzah on one level is also symbolic, on a deeper level it is much more. Matzah eaten on Pesach, while avoiding Chametz (leavened bread), has inherent in its physical construct the ability to provide our bodies with the antidote to tear away the illusion of this world and infuse us with Emunah. Propelling our Emunah to new heights is what the Almighty is wanting to give us during this time of year, through a combination of spiritual energies from above and by us eating Matzah and contemplating that the Hashem that controlled all of nature during the Exodus, is our Hashem today. In this episode we are joined by the lovable and brilliant, Rabbi Wohlgelernter to teach us about the power of Matzah, our Red Pill. ★ Support this podcast ★
20125
Pesach Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Pesach Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Mar 24, 2023
56:44
In this episode my Rabbis and fellow TORCH Podcasters, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe and Rabbi Chaim Bucsko, have a engaging conversation around the upcoming holiday of Pesach. ★ Support this podcast ★
20126
Tapping into the Energy of Pesach with Rabbi Wohlgelernter (Rebroadcast)
Tapping into the Energy of Pesach with Rabbi Wohlgelernter (Rebroadcast)
Apr 2, 2023
46:35
The weeks that lead up to Pesach/Passover, is the time to prepare ourselves to become a vessel to receive the influx of energy that G-d brings to the Jewish people. This is the energy that will propel us to greater heights of spirituality and provides us the opportunity to unleash ourselves from limited thought and connect more to our infinite Creator. In this amazing discussion with Rabbi Wohlgelernter he shares the techniques to prepare ourselves to connect to the power of Pesach and the ultimate time of renewal. ★ Support this podcast ★
20127
Prepping for Sinai with Rabbi Bucsko (Rebroadcast)
Prepping for Sinai with Rabbi Bucsko (Rebroadcast)
Apr 9, 2023
47:30
It is now the Counting of the Omer. These 49 days between Pesach and Shavous create a bridge that allows one to leave their mental restrictions and move towards a more expanded consciousness. In this episode, Rabbi Chaim Buscko breaks down for us how to tap into the spiritual energies now present. By doing so, we will forge ourselves into vessels that will allow us to absorb the wisdom of Torah and catapult us to a higher level of closeness to our Creator. ★ Support this podcast ★
20128
I Will Do and I Will Hear with Scott Kammerman
I Will Do and I Will Hear with Scott Kammerman
Apr 26, 2023
52:29
We are all now in the process of preparing ourselves through the Counting of the Omer so we can receive our Torah at Shavuos. In this episode I asked my dear friend Scott Kammerman, the Spiritual Athlete, to join us and share his insights on what he has been learning and working on, to progress in his ongoing pursuit to grow in his service to the Almighty. I not only learned a great deal but was sincerely inspired by my friend who approaches each day with the drive of an Olympic athlete and seeing his geometric growth over the years as a result. ★ Support this podcast ★
20129
Serving Hashem in Adversity with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
Serving Hashem in Adversity with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe
May 7, 2023
40:23
I have done many episodes on the subject of how to serve Hashem in the business world and other situations that pertain to my life experiences. However, I realized that we all have different situations that we find ourselves in. One situation that I thought was imperative to address is the situations our fellow Jews face serving in the military. I asked Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, the Rambo of Yiddishkeit, to join us and share Torah wisdom to our brothers and sister in the military and as you will hear, this is valuable information for all of us. This episode is dedicated in the merit of my nephew Shlomo Ben Dovid and all our fellow Jews serving in the military. May Hashem keep them all safe. ★ Support this podcast ★
20130
Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
Shavuos Roundtable with the TORCH Podcast Team
May 21, 2023
1:06:07
It is always such a great honor for me to be asked to sit at the TORCH Roundtable with the great Rabbi Nagel, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe and Rabbi Bucsko. In this episode we discuss the upcoming holiday of Shavuos. As always I learned so much from these incredible Rabbis and feel more prepped and excited to receive my Torah this Shavuos. I highly recommend taking the time to listen in on this conversation as you will feel the same. ★ Support this podcast ★
20131
How About Them Apples?!
How About Them Apples?!
Jun 25, 2023
18:15
Being in a state of gratitude paves the way to experiencing joy and fostering a deep connection with Hashem. While it is so simple to achieve, it is so easy to forget, as the Yetzer Hara wants us to focus our attention on what we feel we are lacking. In this episode I share an experience that I like to reflect on regularly as it cemented into my mind the importance of being in a constant state of gratitude to our Creator. ★ Support this podcast ★
20132
If You Could Choose
If You Could Choose
Jul 2, 2023
19:35
Before my wife had her conversion roughly a year and a half ago, the Beis Din, had me go into the mikvah to have a conversion to remove all doubts. My great, great grandmother was born a non-Jew and adopted by a Jewish family as an infant and we wanted to remove any uncertainty on whether she was properly converted. For this conversion to remove all doubts to be effective, I had to contemplate that I was not a Jew and make the choice to remain a non-Jew or become a Jew. This was one of the most profound and important days of my life. In this episode I compare and contrast what those two paths look like and ask you the listener to contemplate being in a similar situation where you could choose. ★ Support this podcast ★
20133
Introducing a New Podcast on Pirkei Avos (Chapters of the Fathers): Eternal Ethics
Introducing a New Podcast on Pirkei Avos (Chapters of the Fathers): Eternal Ethics
Oct 19, 2017
5:21
Dear friends and listeners, I am pleased to announce the launching of a new podcast on Pirkei Avos, Eternal Ethics. Pirkei Avos is the book of Mishna dedicated to giving us the tools to maximize our life, both spiritually and materially. Remarkably, this ancient wisdom was codified nearly 2,000 years ago yet is relevent and […]
20134
Human Fallibility and What to do About it (1.1)
Human Fallibility and What to do About it (1.1)
Oct 19, 2017
28:44
The first mishna of Pirkei Avos begins with attributing the first 900 years of the line of transmission of the Torah from Moshe at Sinai until the Men of the Great Assembly. The second sections is three teachings of those great men. What is the connection between these two parts and why was this chosen […]
20135
Three-Pronged Purpose (1.2)
Three-Pronged Purpose (1.2)
Oct 30, 2017
50:44
The second Mishna in Pirkei Avos features a powerful teaching from one of the pivotal and legendary characters in Jewish History. Shimon HaTzadik (Simeon the Righteous), the Kohen Gadol who succeeded Ezra, enlightens us by teaching us that the world stands on three things, Torah, worship of God, and loving-kindness. What are these three things […]
20136
Fostering Lasting Relationships (1:3)
Fostering Lasting Relationships (1:3)
Nov 6, 2017
58:15
In following the previous mishna which distilled the life objectives to three tenets, Pirkei Avos proceeds to delve into each one individually. In perhaps the most difficult mishna of the book, Antigonus lays out how to fulfill “Avodah” properly. In this teaching we read a take on altruism and how to create deep, meaningful and […]
20137
Godly Intellect (1:4)
Godly Intellect (1:4)
Nov 13, 2017
38:09
In the fourth mishna of Pirkei Avos, our sages offer three steps to accessing Torah. In our deconstruction of this teaching we learn about the nature of Torah and the unusual ways that we access it. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20138
Excessive Schmoozing with Women (1:5)
Excessive Schmoozing with Women (1:5)
Nov 20, 2017
27:18
In the fifth mishna we learn about the proper ways to interact with others, especially those less fortunate, in a pious and peril-free manner. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation […]
20139
Selecting Mentors (1:6)
Selecting Mentors (1:6)
Nov 27, 2017
36:54
In the 6th mishna of Pirkei Avos, we learn about the importance of having good mentors and friends, and the prerequisites to make such relationships work. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making […]
20140
Avoiding Bad Neighbors (1:7)
Avoiding Bad Neighbors (1:7)
Dec 4, 2017
38:01
In the previous mishna we are instructed how to choose positive influences, in this one we are warned of the perils of bad friends and bad neighbors. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making […]
20141
Ethical Judicial Conduct (1:8-1:9)
Ethical Judicial Conduct (1:8-1:9)
Dec 11, 2017
24:44
In the Second Century before the Common Era, the Jewish world was in an upheaval due largely to various splinter sects, such as the Sadducees and Boethusians, causing internal conflict and confusion among the nation. The two great leaders of the Jews at the time had many challenges on their hands. In this podcast we tell […]
20142
The Two Elements of Leadership (1:10)
The Two Elements of Leadership (1:10)
Jan 8, 2018
35:03
In the tenth Mishna, the leader of the Jews Shemayah, a descendent of the Assyrian king Sanchereb, teaches us about the work, leadership and politicians. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a […]
20143
How to be a Peacemaker (1:11-12)
How to be a Peacemaker (1:11-12)
Jan 15, 2018
41:31
One of the great legendary figures in Jewish history, Hillel, instructs us to follow the ways of Aaron: To love peace and to pursue it, and to love people and bring them near to Torah. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20144
Spiritual Persistence (1:13)
Spiritual Persistence (1:13)
Jan 22, 2018
31:05
In his second consecutive teaching, Hillel instructs us regarding the proper attitude to spiritual development and persistence, and the grave consequences of spiritual stagnation. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation […]
20145
Discover You (1:14)
Discover You (1:14)
Feb 5, 2018
49:47
In the third teaching of Hillel the Elder, we discover timeless advice to maximizing life: If I am not for me, who will be for me; when I am for myself, what am I; and if not now, when? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20146
All Action No Talk (1:15)
All Action No Talk (1:15)
Feb 12, 2018
28:35
In this concise teaching, Shammai the Elder manages to inspire and enlighten our understanding of accomplishing human greatness. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and […]
20147
Remove All Doubt (1:16)
Remove All Doubt (1:16)
Mar 5, 2018
23:53
In this Mishnah, Rabban Gamliel the Elder provides us with a powerful lesson that, if observed, will empower our spiritual lives. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help fund […]
20148
The Virtues of Silence (1:17)
The Virtues of Silence (1:17)
Apr 11, 2018
43:50
The next mantle holder of the office of the Nasi, Rabban Shimon Ben Gamliel, teaches us powerful insights on how to become a greater and more perfect person. שמעון בנו אומר, כל ימיי גדלתי בין החכמים, ולא מצאתי לגוף טוב אלא שתיקה; ולא המדרש הוא העיקר, אלא המעשה; וכל המרבה דברים, מביא חטא – – […]
20149
Why God Maintains the World (1:18)
Why God Maintains the World (1:18)
Apr 16, 2018
37:42
The finalmishna of the first chapter sounds very similar to its second one. In it we learn the three things upon which the world endures which is quite similar to the teaching of the three things upon which the world stands. In explaining the distinction we learn a fundamental principle about the relationship and interrelationship of God […]
20150
Spiritual Cost-Benefit Analysis (2:1)
Spiritual Cost-Benefit Analysis (2:1)
Apr 30, 2018
1:14:09
In the first mishna of the second chapter of Pirkei Avos, the great Rabbi Judah the Prince offers indispensable life guidance. Who was this transformative Torah giant and what are his invaluable eternal lessons? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20151
Forgetting to Sin (2:2-2:3)
Forgetting to Sin (2:2-2:3)
May 7, 2018
45:10
In the second mishna of the second Chapter, Rabban Gamleil III offers some novel and surprising perspectives on work/Torah balance and avoiding sin. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to […]
20152
Getting God as your Advocate (2:4)
Getting God as your Advocate (2:4)
May 28, 2018
29:27
Imagine if you had God on your side in all your endeavors. Is there a better or more potent advocate? In this mishna we learn the formula how to get God to advance your interests. The steps are simple to learn but hard in integrate. – – – – – – – – – – […]
20153
Safety in Numbers (2:5)
Safety in Numbers (2:5)
Jun 4, 2018
40:50
In chapter 2 we meet Hillel the Elder again. In this mishna we learn the secret of surviving judgement, the differences between how God and man judge, and hear a clarion call for repenting before we die. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20154
A Tourist Visa to Heaven (2:6)
A Tourist Visa to Heaven (2:6)
Jun 11, 2018
37:41
In the sixth mishna of the second chapter of Pirkei Avos, Hillel the Elder delineates the six levels of distinction, the means to achieve them, and their impediments. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast […]
20155
Divine Karma (2:7)
Divine Karma (2:7)
Jun 18, 2018
15:03
In one of those life experiences we hope to never have, Hillel once encountered a skull floating on the water. His comment to that skull is enshrined in Pirkei Avos and serves as an invaluable lesson to us. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20156
Avoiding Deathpangs (2:8)
Avoiding Deathpangs (2:8)
Jul 2, 2018
39:05
What is really yours and what are you merely a steward over for the duration of your life? In this mishnah, Hillel reclassifies ten things by pulling away the curtain and revealing what they truly are. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20157
Spiritual Natural Law (2:9-2:12)
Spiritual Natural Law (2:9-2:12)
Jul 16, 2018
43:12
Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai was the pivotal leader of the nation at a most vulnerable juncture of our history. His life story and his timeless lessons continue to inform and inspire nearly two millenia after his passing. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20158
Finding Your Magic Bullet (2:13-14)
Finding Your Magic Bullet (2:13-14)
Aug 6, 2018
33:17
Two thousand years ago the great Sage Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai instructed his five prime disciples to undertake a unique mission. This mission and their discoveries can still offer us life-changing wisdom. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please […]
20159
Tempering Temper (2:15)
Tempering Temper (2:15)
Aug 20, 2018
52:44
In this Mishna, one of the most fascinating characters of the Mishnaic era teaches eternal lessons on how to deploy anger properly and how to ensure that our spiritual affairs are in order before we meet our Creator. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20160
Choose Your World (2:16)
Choose Your World (2:16)
Aug 27, 2018
43:41
This mishna marks the first of three times in Pirkei Avos where the phrase “is removed from the world” is assigned to people who exhibit certain attitudes or behaviors. In this podcast we suggest a novel approach to explain that term. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20161
The Ultimate Meritocracy (2:17)
The Ultimate Meritocracy (2:17)
Sep 17, 2018
20:22
In a short, succinct Mishna, Rabbi Yose shares timeless lessons regarding the proper way to treat other people’s money, how Torah greatness is a meritocracy, and perhaps the most central insight of Jewish spirituality. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20162
Relationship or Ritual? (2:18)
Relationship or Ritual? (2:18)
Oct 7, 2018
18:42
What is the optimal relationship between man and God? How is man supposed to view himself? These questions and several others are addressed in Chapter 2, Mishna 18 of Pirkei Avos. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please consider […]
20163
Answering the Heretics (2:19)
Answering the Heretics (2:19)
Oct 14, 2018
21:46
Rabbi Elazar Ben Arach was the prized student of Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai, but he chose to chart his own path in life and not to join the rest of his colleagues in Yavneh. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20164
Do Your Job (2:20-21)
Do Your Job (2:20-21)
Oct 21, 2018
25:26
There are many excuses to shirk our spiritual responsibilities. In the final two mishnayos of Chapter 2, Rabbi Tarfon rebuts them one by one. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation […]
20165
Avoiding Sin: The Authoritative Guide (3:1)
Avoiding Sin: The Authoritative Guide (3:1)
Oct 29, 2018
26:44
It is not often that our Sages offer us any kind of fail-safe formula. In the first mishna of the third chapter, Akaviah Ben Mehalalel provides for us a guaranteed method to avoid sinning. It is a good idea to listen carefully to his words. – – – – – – – – – – […]
20166
Antidotes to Anarchy (3:2)
Antidotes to Anarchy (3:2)
Nov 5, 2018
16:01
What would happen without a police force to maintain law and order? Is there any other way to prevent society from crumbling without police power? These are the questions we explore in the somewhat unsettling second mishna of chapter 3. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20167
Paging the Divine Presence (3:3-4)
Paging the Divine Presence (3:3-4)
Nov 19, 2018
24:08
In successive teachings, our Sages share with us a way to usher ourselves into the Presence of the Almighty. It really is that simple. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation […]
20168
Nocturnal Opportunities (3:5)
Nocturnal Opportunities (3:5)
Nov 26, 2018
17:15
Rabbi Chananya ben Chakhinai says: One who stays awake at night, and one who wanders on a road alone, and turns his heart to idleness, behold he is liable with his life. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please […]
20169
Living on a Supernatural Plane (3:6)
Living on a Supernatural Plane (3:6)
Dec 19, 2018
31:56
What rules govern what happens in our lives? In this mishna we find that there are really three different realms, and that it is possible to upgrade the plane on which we operate. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20170
Summoning God (3:7)
Summoning God (3:7)
Jan 7, 2019
21:07
In Jewish literature, Torah is called the Word of God. In this mishna we learn about its ability to bridge the gap between man and his Creator. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please consider sponsoring a podcast by […]
20171
Charity or Piracy (3:8)
Charity or Piracy (3:8)
Jan 13, 2019
27:01
Why do we give charity? Is there a cap of 20% to how much we can give? In this mishna we learn about a striking rationale for charity, answer these questions, and contrast the two types of givers. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20172
Stockpiling Diamonds (3:9)
Stockpiling Diamonds (3:9)
Jan 21, 2019
17:18
In an unusually sharp statement, our Sages inform us of the severity of neglecting Torah study. The flip side is also true: Torah study is unfathomably valuable. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please consider sponsoring a podcast by […]
20173
Torah To-Go (3:10)
Torah To-Go (3:10)
Jan 27, 2019
25:28
We put much focus on Torah study and Torah acquisition, and in this mishnah we learn about the other half of Torah greatness: Torah retention, which can only be accomplished by rigorous disciplined review. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20174
Hens, Goats, and Bears, Oh My! (3:11-13)
Hens, Goats, and Bears, Oh My! (3:11-13)
Feb 3, 2019
49:14
Rabbi Chanina Ben Dosa was a legendary Sage who lived towards the end of the Second Temple, and the Talmud relates many miraculous and inspirational stories about him. In this podcast we share some of those amazing stories, and connect them to his crucial life-instructional teaching. – – – – – – – – – […]
20175
Alcohol in Moderation (3:14)
Alcohol in Moderation (3:14)
Feb 25, 2019
58:39
What are we living for? How ought we allocate our time? In this striking teaching we learn the difference between the faciliatatory and things which are end goals. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – This Eternal Ethics podcast is […]
20176
Stairway to Heaven (3:15) + Annual Appeal
Stairway to Heaven (3:15) + Annual Appeal
Apr 3, 2019
48:18
Support TORCH and The Parsha Podcast TODAY during our only annual fundraiser. givetorch.com EVERY DONATION IS QUADRUPLED Today, TORCH needs your help!! Today YOU can support the thousands of Jewish Houstonians who learn and get inspired at TORCH Torah classes every year! Today YOU can support the 18 Houston area Congregations spanning from The Woodlands […]
20177
Greeting Everyone with Joy (3:16)
Greeting Everyone with Joy (3:16)
Apr 29, 2019
59:29
Rabbi Yishmael was the scion of one of the most prestigious families of our nation and a titanic Sage of the Mishnaic Era. In this podcast we share several of the fascinating stories about his fruitful and sometimes tragic life and explore the connection between those episodes and his teaching in Pirkei Avos. – – […]
20178
Bulletproof Fences (3:17)
Bulletproof Fences (3:17)
May 20, 2019
1:13:01
Rabbi Akiva is one of the titanic figures of the Mishnaic Era. He served as the vital link transmitting the Torah that he studied from his predecessors to his students amid ceaseless oppression under the Romans. In the first of three consecutive Mishnas authored by Rabbi Akiva, we learn the keys to avoiding catastrophic promiscuity, […]
20179
World Building (3:18)
World Building (3:18)
May 27, 2019
28:49
In an astonishingly profound teaching, Rabbi Akiva informs us of the special role that humans have in completing the objective of the Almighty’s creation; and the amplified role that our nation has in effectuating that; and the tools that we were given to achieve that goal. – – – – – – – – – […]
20180
Divine Foreknowledge and Free Will (3:19)
Divine Foreknowledge and Free Will (3:19)
Jun 3, 2019
37:59
In this pithy teaching, Rabbi Akiva addresses some of the knottiest questions of Jewish philosophy: If God knows what we do ahead of time, do we have free will? If God is control of everything, is the world judged fairly? Why are the righteous and the wicked treated inequitably? – – – – – – […]
20181
Hotel Incidentals (3:20)
Hotel Incidentals (3:20)
Jun 17, 2019
30:04
In his fourth and final teaching, Rabbi Akiva shares a powerful and serious parable that is designed to shake us up and take life seriously but also contains the undertones of a very inspirational and comforting message. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20182
Advanced Conflict Resolution (3:21)
Advanced Conflict Resolution (3:21)
Jun 27, 2019
59:55
Rabbi Elazar Ben Azaria got an unusual and controversial promotion at a very young age. Due to an escalating dispute between two of the great leaders of the era, the Nasi Rabban Gamliel was deposed and Rabbi Elazar Ben Azaria, aged a tender 18, was appointed as the head of the Academy in his stead. […]
20183
Preconditions to Torah (3:21-22)
Preconditions to Torah (3:21-22)
Aug 19, 2019
31:41
Torah is unlike any other discipline. Every other discipline can be acquired without preconditions; Torah can only be unlocked by someone who has successfully primed himself for that lofty status. In this Mishnah, Rabbi Elazar Ben Azariah instructs us on what is needed before Torah can flourish within us. – – – – – – […]
20184
Complex Calculations (3:23)
Complex Calculations (3:23)
Sep 1, 2019
33:43
What is the relationship between Torah and secular disciplines such as astronomy mathematics? In a pithy and cryptic teaching, Rabbi Elazar Chisma – a Sage who excelled in both – offers an insightful perspective. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
20185
Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise (4:1)
Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise (4:1)
Sep 9, 2019
49:40
Does it make sense to take pride in one’s intellect, fitness, or wealth? Our Sages teach us that those things are determined before someone is born, and therefore it would be ludicrous for us to take pride in what was given to us by God. But in a seminal teaching, Ben Zoma reveals that there […]
20186
Miracle Drugs and Superfoods (4:2)
Miracle Drugs and Superfoods (4:2)
Sep 19, 2019
54:29
Something dramatic happens when the Soul is fed. It is empowered and its place in a person’s identity is augmented, and concurrently the Yetzer Hara’s influence is weakened. A virtuous cycle results wherein one Mitzvah makes the second Mitzvah more likely. Initially, the Mitzvos need to be force-fed like feeding a patient who refuses food. […]
20187
The Critical Hour (4:3)
The Critical Hour (4:3)
Nov 18, 2019
32:14
How valuable is an hour of time? How much of a person’s life can be changed in one hour? In this mishna, Ben Azzai teaches us the power of a single hour. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please […]
20188
Extreme Measures (4:4)
Extreme Measures (4:4)
Nov 26, 2019
25:16
My wise grandmother, of blessed memory, used to quip, “Everything in moderation.” That sagacious advice is, in fact, the backbone of Rambam’s understanding of proper character. In every trait, there are two polar extremes, and both are not ideal. The balanced approach, the golden medium, the moderate middle, the midpoint between both extremes – that […]
20189
Sanctification or Vacuum (4:5)
Sanctification or Vacuum (4:5)
Dec 17, 2019
20:15
If our life’s mission would be distilled down to one idea it would be Kiddush Hashem (Sanctification of God’s Name). The opposite of Kiddush Hashem is Chilul Hashem (Desecration of God’s Name). Due to the gravity of these concepts, they are treated differently. TORCH Shabbat Light Switch Cover Please visit our website torchweb.org to get your FREE […]
20190
Life-Extending Teaching (4:6)
Life-Extending Teaching (4:6)
Feb 3, 2020
29:15
What does it take to teach Torah effectively? What are the immense benefits of studying Torah with great diligence? What are the different modes of Torah study and what are the different benefits? In this deceptively simple Mishnah we learn about the power of commitment to Torah study, Torah teaching, and allowing Torah to influence […]
20191
Torah Misappropriation (4:7)
Torah Misappropriation (4:7)
Feb 17, 2020
48:23
Our nation is blessed to be privy to the Almighty’s Torah. Those who immerse themselves in the Torah’s vast seas are the choicest and most admirable people of our nation. What benefits do they deserve? Is it OK for them to cash in on their Torah prowess? Should they demand honor for their Torah accomplishments? […]
20192
Honoring Torah (4.8)
Honoring Torah (4.8)
Mar 3, 2020
1:04:41
Please support TORCH and The Eternal Ethics Podcast TODAY during our only annual fundraiser giveTORCH.org Support the Eternal Ethics Podcast – https://www.charidy.com/torch/ethics EVERY DONATION IS QUADRUPLED Today, TORCH needs your help!! Today YOU can partner with us in the largest and most downloaded Jewish Podcast Network (The Jewish History Podcast, This Jewish Life, The Parsha […]
20193
Judicial Restraint (4:9-10)
Judicial Restraint (4:9-10)
Mar 16, 2020
37:20
Justice is one of the three things that perpetuate the world. But should one strive to be a judge? In this very interesting Mishnah, the brainchild of a fascinating Sage, we discover that a person ought to be highly reticent in avoiding serving as a judge. TORCH Shabbat Light Switch Cover Please visit our website torchweb.org to […]
20194
Getting Rich Doing What You Love (4:11)
Getting Rich Doing What You Love (4:11)
Apr 29, 2020
25:21
Which is a greater inhibitor of Torah study, being rich or being poor? You would imagine that both conditions would distract someone from dedicating their time to Torah study. In this Mishnah we find an answer to this question and consequently a way for someone to achieve a rags-to-riches turnaround thanks to committed Torah study. […]
20195
Making Torah a Priority (4:12)
Making Torah a Priority (4:12)
May 5, 2020
49:31
Rabbi Meir is one of the most significant personalities in Jewish history. He was one of the five surviving students of Rabbi Akiva, and the one whose notes were used as the basis for the Mishnah. In this seminal teaching, he guides us on how to harmonize Torah study and making a livelihood and informs […]
20196
Heavenly Headlines (4:13)
Heavenly Headlines (4:13)
May 11, 2020
37:10
What are the consequences of our behavior? What difference does it make if someone does a mitzvah or a sin? In this landmark teaching in Pirkei Avos we learn that our actions truly matter. We have the opportunity to make breaking news in Heaven. What Heavenly Headline will we write? Please email me at [email protected] […]
20197
An Enduring Union (4:14)
An Enduring Union (4:14)
May 20, 2020
34:55
The Sages of yore were absolute Torah giants, of course, but many also balanced their scholastic responsibilities with earning a livelihood. Our particular Mishnah is the brainchild of Rabbi Yochanan HaSandler, Rabbi Yochanan the Shoemaker. In this pithy teaching, he differentiates between assemblies convened for the sake of Heaven and those bound for failure.
20198
Upgrading Honor (4:15)
Upgrading Honor (4:15)
May 25, 2020
40:50
How ought we treat subordinates, peers, and superiors? In this intriguing Mishnah we learn that we tend to undervalue others and consequently accord them insufficient honor, and must correct that by always upgrading the honor and respect for all of our relationships. Please email me at [email protected] with any questions or comments TORCH Shabbat Light […]
20199
Precise Teaching (4:16)
Precise Teaching (4:16)
Jun 9, 2020
43:30
Accidents happen. Generally speaking, the Torah overlooks things that happen unintentionally. If someone accidentally sins, the Almighty forgives him. Yet the Mishnah teaches that an accident in Torah study is tantamount to a willful, negligent blunder. Why are matters of Torah treated so harshly? Please email me at [email protected] with any questions or comments TORCH […]
20200
Crowning Achievements (4:17)
Crowning Achievements (4:17)
Jun 15, 2020
1:00:49
In our most ideal state, the Jewish Nation is described as “A Kingdom of Priests and a Holy Nation.” We are all Kings! The Talmud teaches that in Olam Haba, all the righteous who merit an invitation will be adorned with a resplendent crown atop their heads, and be basking in the pleasure of God. […]