Popular Shows by TORCH הרב אריה וולבה
20824 episodes
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Name
Release Date
Duration
2201
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 ★
2202
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 ★
2203
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 […]
2204
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 […]
2205
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 […]
2206
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 […]
2207
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2208
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 […]
2209
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 […]
2210
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 […]
2211
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 […]
2212
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 […]
2213
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2214
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 […]
2215
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? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2216
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 […]
2217
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 […]
2218
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 – – […]
2219
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 […]
2220
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? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2221
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 […]
2222
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. – – – – – – – – – – […]
2223
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2224
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 […]
2225
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2226
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2227
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2228
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 […]
2229
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2230
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2231
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2232
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 […]
2233
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2234
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 […]
2235
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. – – – – – – – – – – […]
2236
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2237
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 […]
2238
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 […]
2239
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2240
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 […]
2241
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2242
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 […]
2243
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2244
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. – – – – – – – – – […]
2245
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 […]
2246
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 […]
2247
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. – – […]
2248
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, […]
2249
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. – – – – – – – – – […]
2250
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? – – – – – – […]
2251
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2252
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. […]
2253
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. – – – – – – […]
2254
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. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2255
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 […]
2256
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. […]
2257
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 […]
2258
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 […]
2259
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 […]
2260
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 […]
2261
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? […]
2262
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 […]
2263
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 […]
2264
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. […]
2265
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 […]
2266
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] […]
2267
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.
2268
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 […]
2269
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 […]
2270
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. […]
2271
Environment Makes the Man (4:18)
Environment Makes the Man (4:18)
Jun 24, 2020
30:23
Rabbi Elazar Ben Aruch was the most promising student of Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai. Unfortunately, his potential was not actualized, and in fact he forgot his Torah. In this autobiographical Mishnah, he shares with us the reason why his greatness did not pan out. Please email me at [email protected] with any questions or comments TORCH […]
2272
Theodicy Today (4:19)
Theodicy Today (4:19)
Jun 30, 2020
24:26
The blissful existence of the wicked and the suffering of the righteous raise difficult questions for the believer: If God is in total control of all that transpires, why would He cause pain to those who obey His words and reward those who neglect them? In this pithy mishnah we learn that the classical reconciliation […]
2273
Lion’s Tail (4:20)
Lion’s Tail (4:20)
Jul 6, 2020
44:29
The author of this Mishnah served as the rabbi of Rome. While all his colleagues were coalesced together in the great Torah centers of Israel, Rabbi Masya Ben Charash led the small community and academy in the epicenter of impurity. How he got there is certainly a tantalizing question. In this teaching he guides us […]
2274
An Invitation to The Afterlife (4:21-2)
An Invitation to The Afterlife (4:21-2)
Aug 4, 2020
1:10:09
We all recognize that we will eventually die. Each of us know that there will come a point in time where our body and Soul separate and go their own way. The body will return to its origin, the dust, and the Soul will return to its Heavenly roots. What happens to our Soul in […]
2275
Angry and Irrational (4:23)
Angry and Irrational (4:23)
Aug 17, 2020
46:12
Who controls a person? That is arguably the most important question there is. As Jews we are trained to adopt the Almighty God as our Master. With the Creator governing our life via His Torah, we are on the correct path to fulfill our life’s duty. But the Talmud reveals that there is an impostor […]
2276
Benediction Malediction (4:24)
Benediction Malediction (4:24)
Aug 25, 2020
30:44
Shmuel HaKattan was one of the legends of Jewish history. The Talmud testifies on him that had his generation been worthy, he would have been a full-fledged prophet. Notwithstanding his generation, Shmuel Hakattan did merit lower grade prophecies in his life. He was commissioned by Rabban Gamliel to compose the blessing against the heretics, a […]
2277
Etched in Stone (4:25)
Etched in Stone (4:25)
Aug 31, 2020
48:14
Elisha Ben Avuyah was one of the greatest Sages with the potential to being a historic legend of Jewish history on par with Rabbi Akiva and his colleagues. But he went awry. He became a heretic and a sinner and abandoned Torah. Why did he go awry? That question is hotly debated among the Sages. […]
2278
Thanks a Million!
Thanks a Million!
Sep 9, 2020
32:31
Of all the episodes that I have recorded over the years, this will be perhaps the most unique one. For one, it will be released simultaneously on all 6 channels that I am fortunate enough to host: The Parsha Podcast, The Jewish History Podcast, The Mitzvah Podcast , This Jewish Life, The Ethics Podcast, and […]
2279
Aged Wisdom (4:26-7)
Aged Wisdom (4:26-7)
Oct 26, 2020
23:10
How do children learn? How does intelligence and wisdom develop? How do people undergo intellectual and spiritual maturation? In this very powerful set of Mishnayos, we learn why young people why young people are not always ready for prime time, and how ruminating over wisdom transforms a person. – – – – – – – […]
2280
Envy, Lust, and Honor (4:28)
Envy, Lust, and Honor (4:28)
Nov 2, 2020
52:18
This Mishnah is perhaps the most famous one in the entire Book of Pirkei Avos. We are told that there are three characteristics that remove a person from the world: Envy, Lust, and Honor. What is not specified is which world is being referenced, or why, exactly, these characteristics are so destructive. In this transformational […]
2281
Life, Afterlife, and Judgment (4:29)
Life, Afterlife, and Judgment (4:29)
Jan 17, 2021
51:14
What happens after we die? That is a question that fascinates and terrifies us. The future is unknown. It is a mystery, shrouded in uncertainty and dread. Naturally, the human tendency is to try to avoid thinking about those questions too much. In this Mishnah, the subject is ripped open and we learn some very […]
2282
Nuclear Football (5:1) + TORCH Fundraiser
Nuclear Football (5:1) + TORCH Fundraiser
Mar 3, 2021
31:17
Please support The Ethics Podcast and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED Show your support for TORCH and The Mitzvah Podcast and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2283
TORCH Fundraiser: A Conversation with our Board President, Dan Kullman
TORCH Fundraiser: A Conversation with our Board President, Dan Kullman
Mar 4, 2021
24:30
Please support The TORCH Podcasts and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be TRIPLED Show your support for TORCH and the TORCH Podcasts and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2284
Greedy When Others are Fearful (5:2-3)
Greedy When Others are Fearful (5:2-3)
Mar 8, 2021
36:56
Last chance to Support the TORCH Fundraiser Please support The Ethics Podcast and the annual TORCH fundraiser at giveTORCH.org Every donation will be DOUBLED Show your support for TORCH and The Mitzvah Podcast and donate to the annual fundraiser at giveTORCH.org – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […]
2285
Spiritual Epigenetics (5:4)
Spiritual Epigenetics (5:4)
Apr 11, 2021
22:25
The story of our forefather Abraham is told in great detail in the Torah. We read about his challenges and triumphs, travails, and travels. The Mishnah calculates that Abraham underwent ten distinct divine tests and succeeded in all of them. What are the nature of these ten tests and what do they portend to us? […]
2286
Miracles at the Sea (5:5)
Miracles at the Sea (5:5)
Apr 26, 2021
28:05
Ten is a very significant number in Jewish numerology and philosophy. The previous teachings in this chapter revolve around tens and the present Mishnah teaches that the Exodus was marked by a series of ten miracles for the Jews and ten plagues for the Egyptians whilst in Egypt and ten additional miracles for the Jews […]
2287
Faith and Fear (5:6)
Faith and Fear (5:6)
Jun 1, 2021
28:26
Fear of God and Faith in God are both laudable qualities worthy of great people. Both, of course, are mitzvos as well. Which one is loftier? At first glance, fear of God can only be built upon an edifice of faith and thus it would be a loftier level. But when we examine the issue […]
2288
Concentric Realms of Holiness (5:7)
Concentric Realms of Holiness (5:7)
Jun 7, 2021
45:09
For 800+ years our nation had a Temple in Jerusalem. The Temple was a special place. It contained the vessels described in Scripture, it was the site of annual, national pilgrimages, it is where the high priest did the Yom Kippur service each year, it was the epicenter of the nation and it’s rebuilding has […]
2289
Defanged Demons (5:8)
Defanged Demons (5:8)
Jun 23, 2021
40:38
In the final installment of the series of Tens, our Mishnah reveals to us the ten things that were created at twilight of Friday during the week of Genesis. What is the deeper meaning of twilight? What is unique about these seemingly random mix of things that were created then? In this very interesting Mishnah […]
2290
The Seven Keys to Wisdom (5:9)
The Seven Keys to Wisdom (5:9)
Jun 28, 2021
33:37
What separates a wise person from someone who has to potential to be a wise person but has not actualized it? In the words of our Sages, such a person who has not cultivated their wisdom is a “Golem”, and there are seven key differences between a Golem and a wise person. In this very […]
2291
Individual Prophecy and Collective Punishment (5:10-12)
Individual Prophecy and Collective Punishment (5:10-12)
Jul 6, 2021
47:00
In ancient times, our nation benefitted from the service of prophets. The primary responsibility of a prophet was to rebuke and admonish the people when they veered off course from the proper path that the Almighty has planned for them. But what now? Prophecy has been extinct for more than 2300 years. How do we […]
2292
Generosity and Miserliness (5:13)
Generosity and Miserliness (5:13)
Aug 11, 2021
26:19
In the question of generosity and miserliness, our Mishnah tells us that there are four kinds of people. Interestingly, a group that we would view quite innocuously is labeled as Sodom-like. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Sponsorship: Please consider […]
2293
Realms of Rage (5:14)
Realms of Rage (5:14)
Aug 17, 2021
42:39
Anger is a sentiment that we all feel sometimes. What triggers our rage? What does our anger say about us? What is the connection between anger and faith? Why does the Talmud declare that getting angry is tantamount to idolatry? Why does the Talmud foretell that those who get angry are destined for all manner […]
2294
How to Boost Your Intelligence (5:15-8)
How to Boost Your Intelligence (5:15-8)
Oct 5, 2021
51:36
There are different types of people in the world. Just as our faces are not identical, our perspectives and abilities and innate qualities differ. Regarding a host of things, our Sages tell us that there are four distinct character types. In this wide-ranging Ethics Podcast we discuss memory tips, how to boost your intelligence, the […]
2295
Plummeting in Love (5:19)
Plummeting in Love (5:19)
Oct 11, 2021
34:25
Love is a fickle emotion. It is something that changes seemingly randomly. Why is love not fixed in place? What is the secret to enduring love? In this exquisite Mishnah we discover the inner workings of how love works and what determines its stability. We also read a terrifying account of how people’s spiritual standing […]
2296
How to Have a Good Argument (5:20)
How to Have a Good Argument (5:20)
Nov 2, 2021
27:42
Argumentation has become a lost art. Our society promotes uniformity and consensus, a monochromatic society where divergent ideas are shunned. This approach is antithetical to Torah. Our religion does not believe that your thinking should be outsourced to others. We do not believe that everyone ought to follow others like a flock of sheep. At […]
2297
Multi-Level-Marketing of Mitzvos (5:21)
Multi-Level-Marketing of Mitzvos (5:21)
Nov 9, 2021
37:22
Every mitzvah that we do benefits us for all eternity. Our Sages reveal to us that each Mitzvah creates an advocate who vigorously fights on our behalf and defends us in front of the Heavenly court. Mitzvos are great assets to have. In this podcast, we discover that there is a way to game the […]
2298
Abraham’s Academy (5:22)
Abraham’s Academy (5:22)
Dec 6, 2021
28:58
The founder of our nation was Abraham our patriarch. He was a paragon of faith and kindness, and also exhibited every positive character trait. By contrast, Bilaam the sorcerer was the anti-Abraham. He harbored every negative trait. In this mission we are told that both of these people are teachers. We must choose if we […]
2299
High and Mighty (5:23-4)
High and Mighty (5:23-4)
Dec 13, 2021
39:24
What forces must we use to try to bring about our life mission? Our mandate is to fulfill the will of the Almighty. He expects great things of us and created us for that purpose. In this thrilling Mishnah, we learned about the various different forces and powers that we must marshal to accomplish our […]
2300
Designing The Ideal Life (5:25)
Designing The Ideal Life (5:25)
Dec 20, 2021
1:14:53
What does it take to live a great life? How would such a life be structured? This Mishnah is a masterclass in unpacking the subject. What you are about to enjoy is an exquisite array of insights and ideas on human development, pedagogy and education, how to utilize your brain, and how to design an […]