Popular Shows by TORCH הרב אריה וולבה

Discover the timeless essence of truth embedded in the Torah as we explore its foundational aspects, beginning with the often-neglected Bereishit. This episode promises an enriching journey into understanding truth as a vital component of both our spiritual and everyday lives. We delve into the significance of the Hebrew letters Aleph, Mem, and Taf, forming the word "Emes" (truth), and their presence throughout the Torah. With insights drawn from the written and oral Torahs and Rashi's commentary, we underscore how truth emerges as not just an abstract concept, but a lived principle, encouraging a life of authenticity and sincerity. Journey with us into practical applications of truth, spotlighted by the discerning judgement of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein in the face of adversity. We explore the idea of truth as an eternal guide, urging listeners to embrace incremental growth in religious observance without altering the core teachings of the Torah. Personal integrity takes center stage as we liken our relationship with God to a genuine romantic bond, emphasizing that our spiritual journey should stem from personal conviction, free from societal pressures. This episode invites you to make the Torah a meaningful part of your journey, offering support and patience as you nurture a sincere and personal connection to your faith. This episode (Ep 7.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated in Honor of Gary Nathanson & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 19, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 20, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever paused to ponder why the Torah starts with the beginning of creation and not just tell us the laws of life? For those seeking answers and even more profound insights, this episode invites you on an enlightening exploration of Torah in Parashat Bereishis, complete with Rashi’s commentary on the word 'Bereishis.' We uncover the rich narrative, even stepping back to the ancestry stories of Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, Yishmael and Isaac, and Jacob, revealing the deep connection between these narratives and our right to the land of Israel. Moving forward, we delve into the heartening verse from the Torah that calls us to bring both our good and bad inclinations to God. Drawing inspiration from the righteous and holy souls that were brutally murdered by the barbaric animals from Gaza, and the wisdom of the Chofetz Chaim, we reflect on the devotion and unity with which we fulfill mitzvahs. In the final segment, we focus on the sanctity of Shabbos, discussing how we can elevate this day and embrace godliness. Tune in, and let's unravel these teachings, overcome negativity through mitzvahs, and strive to become the greatest people we can be. This episode (#242) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation! **** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 13, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 13, 2023 ★ Support this podcast ★

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.1) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.This episode is dedicated in honor of Bobbi Asarch & Linda Friedberg who had the idea to start this weekly class! Thank YOU! 00:00 Parsha Summary20:05 Important Lessons Segment Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing ***** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to [email protected]. Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 27,  2022, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 27, 2022 ★ Support this podcast ★ ★ Support this podcast ★

Embark on a transformative journey as we wrap up our Complete Bible Crash Course with a deep dive into the Book of Deuteronomy. Discover the profound insights from Moses's final messages, a reflection of a lifetime of leadership, and the crucial lessons that continue to shape Jewish life and spirituality. As we discuss the importance of daily review and humility, this episode illuminates the relevance of the Shema's declaration of purpose and the compelling narrative of Moses's last days. Together, we unravel the significance of Deuteronomy's teachings, from the nuances of Jewish identity to the spiritual essence of kosher food, and the values of holiness that define a nation chosen to lead by example. Feel the weight of history and the pulsating beat of tradition as we delve into the Jewish lifestyle ordained by Deuteronomy, examining how the laws and values set forth in Torah resonate through our daily practices and ethical considerations. We explore the intersection of spirituality and the mundane—how our relationship with God is intertwined with acts as simple as eating and as complex as judicial governance. This episode also sheds light on the biblical approach to military ethics, social codes, and the embracing of struggle that underpins leadership and growth, emphasizing that the journey towards fulfillment is paved with effort and overcoming challenges. As we close this chapter of our exploration, the Torah emerges not just as a historical document but as a living testament, offering each of us a personal inheritance of wisdom and manual for living. The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua serves as a powerful reminder that the teachings of the Torah are accessible to all who seek them, inviting continuous questioning and the pursuit of clarity. Join us in contemplating how these eternal lessons guide us in making life-affirming choices, as we honor the legacy of Moses and the enduring spirit of the Torah that calls us to conquer our struggles and find blessings in our endeavors. This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 5, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 20, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on a captivating exploration of timeless narratives as we delve deep into the heart of the Torah's stories. We assure you, this journey will not only enlighten but also inspire you with the compelling tales of Noah and Abraham, their righteousness, the choices they made and the responsibilities they shouldered. Their stories illustrate fascinating lessons on morality, the importance of individual choice, accountability for others, and the need to speak plainly yet profoundly. Immerse yourself as we dissect the intriguing character of Noah, a beacon of righteousness in a generation of wickedness, and the divine message hidden amidst the numbers in the Torah. Together, we'll glean lessons from Noah's story, appreciating the significance of meaningful actions and transformative steps towards change when errors occur. Tune in for an enriching dose of wisdom and motivation and discover the immense potential for growth that lies in challenging ourselves and in sharing our wisdom with the world. This insightful journey promises to leave you with a profound understanding of the Torah's teachings, and their relevance to the world we live in today. Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 27,  2022, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on October 27, 2022 ★ Support this podcast ★

Embark on a transformative journey as we wrap up our Complete Bible Crash Course with a deep dive into the Book of Deuteronomy. Discover the profound insights from Moses's final messages, a reflection of a lifetime of leadership, and the crucial lessons that continue to shape Jewish life and spirituality. As we discuss the importance of daily review and humility, this episode illuminates the relevance of the Shema's declaration of purpose and the compelling narrative of Moses's last days. Together, we unravel the significance of Deuteronomy's teachings, from the nuances of Jewish identity to the spiritual essence of kosher food, and the values of holiness that define a nation chosen to lead by example. Feel the weight of history and the pulsating beat of tradition as we delve into the Jewish lifestyle ordained by Deuteronomy, examining how the laws and values set forth in Torah resonate through our daily practices and ethical considerations. We explore the intersection of spirituality and the mundane—how our relationship with God is intertwined with acts as simple as eating and as complex as judicial governance. This episode also sheds light on the biblical approach to military ethics, social codes, and the embracing of struggle that underpins leadership and growth, emphasizing that the journey towards fulfillment is paved with effort and overcoming challenges. As we close this chapter of our exploration, the Torah emerges not just as a historical document but as a living testament, offering each of us a personal inheritance of wisdom and manual for living. The transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua serves as a powerful reminder that the teachings of the Torah are accessible to all who seek them, inviting continuous questioning and the pursuit of clarity. Join us in contemplating how these eternal lessons guide us in making life-affirming choices, as we honor the legacy of Moses and the enduring spirit of the Torah that calls us to conquer our struggles and find blessings in our endeavors. This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 5, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 8, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock the secrets of the Torah as we journey through its timeless wisdom and divine teachings. Join us as we embark on an insightful journey through the foundations of the Torah in our Bible Crash Course. Listen in as we address ten pivotal questions that unravel the essence of the Torah, exploring not just its historical and legal facets but its role as a living document, intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. We contemplate its authorship, structure, and the profound connection it establishes between us and the Divine, emphasizing that the Torah is far more than a static record; it is a dynamic blueprint for existence and a testament to an enduring wisdom that transcends time. As we venture further, we dissect the layers of the Torah, shedding light on the Ten Commandments and the powerful partnership they symbolize between mankind and God. The conversation extends to the Oral Law, where the intricacies of Jewish tradition come alive through the interpretations of the Mishnah and Talmud, revealing the meticulous care with which these teachings have been preserved and passed down. Delve into the wisdom of sages like Maimonides and Rabbi Yosef Karo, whose works continue to shape the daily practices of Jewish life, inviting each of us to seek a deeper understanding of the Torah's timeless teachings. Finally, the discussion culminates with a heartwarming story of a friend and lawyer who found himself entangled in questions of the Torah's authenticity. This personal narrative underscores the universal respect for the Torah and its singular, unaltered message that has echoed throughout millennia. Embrace the transformative power of Torah study, as it guides us in refining our character and strengthening our bond with God, ensuring that its wisdom remains as relevant and vibrant today as it was over 3,300 years ago at Mount Sinai. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 23, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 25, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins the fourth cycle of weekly Torah insights with Parshas Bereshis, focusing on creation's profundity and life's lessons from Genesis 1:25–27. He emphasizes Hashem's deliberate design, urging listeners to derive ethics from nature if Torah were absent, while highlighting Torah's elevation beyond instinct. Creation's Depth: Bereshis holds infinite secrets; a rabbi spent 25 years on one book about the six days, yet Rabbi Simcha Wasserman deemed it insufficient. No full week exists to study it due to holidays, protecting its mysteries (0:12–4:48).Animal Essences and Lessons: Animals are created "according to their kind" (limino), each with unchangeable traits (Talmud Eruvin 100b). Examples: cat (modesty), dog (forgiveness), camel (self-sufficiency for true kindness), ant (diligence per Proverbs 6:6). Rambam story proves nature's immutability—trained cats chase mice. Without Torah, animals teach conduct; with Torah, it refines (e.g., "do not murder" prohibits embarrassment) (6:26–14:40).Human Creation and Genders: Hashem created male/female binary ("zachar u'nekeva"), rejecting modern fluidity (5:47–6:26).Divine Messages Everywhere: King David learned from all creatures except the spider, which later saved him. Every event is Hashem's message—learn from situations (e.g., supermarket observations). National Geographic shows animal defenses/predators in balance; Pesach song illustrates chain, but fear only Hashem (15:14–20:27).Call to Action: Read the Chumash (Stone Edition by Artscroll recommended)—it transforms life. Journey through Torah starts now, learning from all creation (20:27–21:18). This episode (Ep 8.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 17, 2025 Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Creation, #Bereshit, #Duality, #Nature, #Lessons, #Transformation, #Chumash ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins the fourth cycle of weekly Torah insights with Parshas Bereshis, focusing on creation's profundity and life's lessons from Genesis 1:25–27. He emphasizes Hashem's deliberate design, urging listeners to derive ethics from nature if Torah were absent, while highlighting Torah's elevation beyond instinct. Creation's Depth: Bereshis holds infinite secrets; a rabbi spent 25 years on one book about the six days, yet Rabbi Simcha Wasserman deemed it insufficient. No full week exists to study it due to holidays, protecting its mysteries (0:12–4:48).Animal Essences and Lessons: Animals are created "according to their kind" (limino), each with unchangeable traits (Talmud Eruvin 100b). Examples: cat (modesty), dog (forgiveness), camel (self-sufficiency for true kindness), ant (diligence per Proverbs 6:6). Rambam story proves nature's immutability—trained cats chase mice. Without Torah, animals teach conduct; with Torah, it refines (e.g., "do not murder" prohibits embarrassment) (6:26–14:40).Human Creation and Genders: Hashem created male/female binary ("zachar u'nekeva"), rejecting modern fluidity (5:47–6:26).Divine Messages Everywhere: King David learned from all creatures except the spider, which later saved him. Every event is Hashem's message—learn from situations (e.g., supermarket observations). National Geographic shows animal defenses/predators in balance; Pesach song illustrates chain, but fear only Hashem (15:14–20:27).Call to Action: Read the Chumash (Stone Edition by Artscroll recommended)—it transforms life. Journey through Torah starts now, learning from all creation (20:27–21:18). This episode (Ep 8.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 17, 2025 Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Creation, #Bereshit, #Duality, #Nature, #Lessons, #Transformation, #Chumash ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence. From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism. Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective. This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 15, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Tractate Baba Metzia 84a, focusing on a Talmudic discussion about Rabbi Yochanan’s exceptional beauty and its spiritual implications. The episode delves into the concept of the evil eye, the influence of parental thoughts on conception, and the responsibility to use one’s gifts thoughtfully. Key points include: Rabbi Yochanan’s Beauty: Rabbi Yochanan claims to be the last of Jerusalem’s beautiful people, described vividly: a silver goblet filled with pomegranate seeds, crowned with roses, and placed between sun and shade reflects a fraction of his radiance. The Talmud questions this, noting Rav Kahana’s beauty resembled Rav Avohu’s, which resembled Yaakov’s, which resembled Adam’s. Rabbi Yochanan’s distinction was his beardless face, enhancing his radiant appearance.Mikvah Practice: Rabbi Yochanan sat at the women’s mikvah entrance so that women, emerging from ritual immersion, would see him and retain his image, influencing their conception to produce beautiful, Torah-learned children. This mirrors Yaakov’s use of streaked rods to influence sheep traits. Rabbi Wolbe defends this as a responsible use of his gift, not arrogance, citing his grandfather’s teaching that knowing and using one’s virtues is an obligation, akin to knowing one’s wealth to give charity.Evil Eye Concerns: The sages question if Rabbi Yochanan feared the evil eye from displaying his beauty. He responds that, as a descendant of Yosef, he is immune, per Genesis 49:22 (“Yosef is a charming son, above the eye”) and 49:24 (likening Yosef’s progeny to fish, hidden from the evil eye). Rabbi Wolbe explains the evil eye’s real impact: flaunting wealth or beauty can cause jealousy, stress, or harm in others, affecting their relationships or finances.Practical Lessons: Rabbi Wolbe shares anecdotes to illustrate avoiding the evil eye: his father’s choice of a modest Toyota Camry over a Lincoln Town Car to avoid neighbors’ jealousy, and leaving a broken blinker light to deter envy. He recounts Marvy Finger’s mentor, a wealthy man flying coach to avoid wasteful display, emphasizing humility and consideration for others’ feelings.Broader Message: The episode underscores the responsibility to use God-given gifts (beauty, wealth) for positive impact while avoiding harm through jealousy. Rabbi Yochanan’s actions aimed to inspire righteousness, not pride. Rabbi Wolbe urges mindfulness of how one’s actions affect others, promoting sensitivity in a world prone to envy and comparison. The episode concludes with a blessing for a wonderful Shabbos and a call to share Torah content. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on August 29, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 17, 2025 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzm Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Beauty, #Yochanan, #Gemara, #Radiant, #Responsibility, #Humility, #Mentor, #Practicality, #Luxury, #Mindfulness ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence. From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism. Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective. This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 1, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Tractate Baba Metzia 84a, focusing on a Talmudic discussion about Rabbi Yochanan’s exceptional beauty and its spiritual implications. The episode delves into the concept of the evil eye, the influence of parental thoughts on conception, and the responsibility to use one’s gifts thoughtfully. Key points include: Rabbi Yochanan’s Beauty: Rabbi Yochanan claims to be the last of Jerusalem’s beautiful people, described vividly: a silver goblet filled with pomegranate seeds, crowned with roses, and placed between sun and shade reflects a fraction of his radiance. The Talmud questions this, noting Rav Kahana’s beauty resembled Rav Avohu’s, which resembled Yaakov’s, which resembled Adam’s. Rabbi Yochanan’s distinction was his beardless face, enhancing his radiant appearance.Mikvah Practice: Rabbi Yochanan sat at the women’s mikvah entrance so that women, emerging from ritual immersion, would see him and retain his image, influencing their conception to produce beautiful, Torah-learned children. This mirrors Yaakov’s use of streaked rods to influence sheep traits. Rabbi Wolbe defends this as a responsible use of his gift, not arrogance, citing his grandfather’s teaching that knowing and using one’s virtues is an obligation, akin to knowing one’s wealth to give charity.Evil Eye Concerns: The sages question if Rabbi Yochanan feared the evil eye from displaying his beauty. He responds that, as a descendant of Yosef, he is immune, per Genesis 49:22 (“Yosef is a charming son, above the eye”) and 49:24 (likening Yosef’s progeny to fish, hidden from the evil eye). Rabbi Wolbe explains the evil eye’s real impact: flaunting wealth or beauty can cause jealousy, stress, or harm in others, affecting their relationships or finances.Practical Lessons: Rabbi Wolbe shares anecdotes to illustrate avoiding the evil eye: his father’s choice of a modest Toyota Camry over a Lincoln Town Car to avoid neighbors’ jealousy, and leaving a broken blinker light to deter envy. He recounts Marvy Finger’s mentor, a wealthy man flying coach to avoid wasteful display, emphasizing humility and consideration for others’ feelings.Broader Message: The episode underscores the responsibility to use God-given gifts (beauty, wealth) for positive impact while avoiding harm through jealousy. Rabbi Yochanan’s actions aimed to inspire righteousness, not pride. Rabbi Wolbe urges mindfulness of how one’s actions affect others, promoting sensitivity in a world prone to envy and comparison. The episode concludes with a blessing for a wonderful Shabbos and a call to share Torah content. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on August 29, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 17, 2025 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzm Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Beauty, #Yochanan, #Gemara, #Radiant, #Responsibility, #Humility, #Mentor, #Practicality, #Luxury, #Mindfulness ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of the month of Cheshvan and how to maximize the days of this month to the fullest. This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #142) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!! ***** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwolJewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspirationUnboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaismParsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareviewLiving Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishlyThinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 25,  2022, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 12, 2023 (after a mistaken deletion of the November 25, 2022 released file)  ★ Support this podcast ★ ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Wolbe explores Parshas Noach, focusing on Noah’s righteousness, the flood, and the ark’s survival (Genesis 7:23). He delves into Rashi’s comment about Noah’s lion bite, Talmudic insights on divine image and heavenly intent, and the generational impact of biblical figures. Key themes include: Noah’s Righteousness and Flaw: Noah’s tireless care for animals for a year without sleep reflects his righteousness, but a minor delay in feeding a sick lion led to a bite, showing even small lapses affect one’s divine image (Talmud Shabbat, Sanhedrin) (1:07–6:19).Heavenly Intent: Actions must be for heaven’s sake, not personal gain. Noah’s dedication, despite the bite, parallels the principle that pure intent is credited as action, as seen in consistent charity habits (6:19–8:17).Generational Impact: Abraham’s service to angels was mirrored by Hashem for the Jewish people, impacting seven generations to Moshe. Noah’s preservation of life laid humanity’s foundation, showing our actions shape descendants (ma’aseh avot siman l’banim) (9:45–13:21).Land of Israel: The Torah’s promise to Abraham’s lineage refutes modern claims (e.g., Ishmael’s precedence), reinforcing Noah’s role in ensuring humanity’s continuity (14:40–15:58).Foundational Moments: Early education (e.g., Vilna Gaon), marriage, and habits are critical, like Noah’s foundational work. Beginnings are hard but shape future generations, as seen in prayers for Torah’s sweetness (16:49–22:00). This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 22, 2025 Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Noah, #Ark, #Animals, #Shabbos, #Review, #Abraham, #Isaac, #Jacob, #Sarah, #Rebecca, #Rachel, #Leah ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of the month of Cheshvan and how to maximize the days of this month to the fullest. This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #142) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!! ***** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwolJewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspirationUnboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaismParsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareviewLiving Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishlyThinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 25,  2022, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 12, 2023 (after a mistaken deletion of the November 25, 2022 released file)  ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence. From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism. Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective. This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 1, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Judaism holds a view almost no other religion shares: you don't need to be Jewish to get to heaven. You just need to be a good person. In this episode, Rabbi Bentzi Epstein explores the seven Noahide laws, a universal moral code given to all humanity. Six of these laws were handed to Adam at creation itself. The seventh came after the flood: don't eat a limb from a living animal. These seven laws open the gates of heaven to anyone, Jewish or not.But if seven laws are enough, why would anyone choose 613? The answer lies in understanding that heaven isn't one-size-fits-all. Your eternal reward corresponds to the effort you invest in this world. Think of it as choosing between a comfortable home and a mansion on the most exclusive street in existence. You'll also learn how Abraham kept commandments that wouldn't be formally given for generations, why the patriarchs could perceive spiritual truths by simply observing the world, and what it means that mankind's relationship with eating meat fundamentally changed after the flood. From the universal to the particular, from Adam to Abraham to Moses, this episode traces how Jewish law encompasses both a code for all humanity and a deeper covenant for those who choose to go further.

Discover the hidden messages in your everyday life and unlock a deeper connection with the divine. Our latest episode promises to transform your understanding of the seemingly mundane experiences that surround you. By exploring the timeless story of Noach through Rashi's insightful lens, we uncover the profound purpose behind God's detailed instructions for the ark, and how they served as a warning and an opportunity for humanity's repentance. This narrative is not just a distant biblical tale, but a mirror reflecting the potential for change and redemption in our own lives today. We also share an inspiring story from the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, which sheds light on how God communicates with us through both challenges and acts of kindness. This episode invites you to open your eyes and ears to these divine signals, encouraging you to nurture your spiritual journey with clarity and intention. By recognizing these everyday messages, you can embark on a path of personal transformation and growth, strengthening your relationship with Hashem. Join us as we explore the beauty of divine communication, and learn how to interpret and respond to these messages with an open heart. This episode (Ep 7.2) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Noach is dedicated in Honor of Gary Nathanson & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 19, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 21, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome back to the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, where we journey from the trials of Egypt to the triumph at Mount Sinai, uncovering the profound transformations of the Jewish people. Listen in as we explore the shift from the familial narratives of Genesis to the birth of a nation in Exodus. Discover how the arduous experiences in Egypt were not just hardships, but the very crucible that forged the identity of the Israelites as the chosen people. We examine Moses' ascension from the Pharaoh's palace to becoming the epitome of empathetic leadership, and delve into the shepherd metaphor that so beautifully illustrates the qualities required of a true leader. As we navigate through this episode, we reflect on the gripping tale of struggle and redemption within the Torah, highlighting that the journey is as crucial as the destination. We unravel the significance behind the Torah concluding before the Israelites' arrival in the Promised Land and offer insights into Moses' reluctance as a leader, juxtaposed with Aaron's eloquence. The conversation takes a turn through the awe-inspiring plagues, the anticipation of the Red Sea's parting, and the daily remembrance of the Exodus, linking it to our present-day practices and traditions. In our final chapter, we discuss the sacred acceptance of the Torah and the establishment of an everlasting covenant with God. Join us as we celebrate Yisro's conversion and the remarkable event of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai, revealing the unity and the encompassing nature of these divine laws. We consider the delicate balance between financial responsibilities and human dignity, emphasizing the transformative power of mitzvahs, the Tabernacle, and the lessons learned from the Golden Calf. Whether you're deepening your knowledge or seeking a spark of inspiration, this episode is a treasure trove of Jewish wisdom and spirituality. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 6, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 11, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Have you ever paused to ponder why the Torah starts with the beginning of creation and not just tell us the laws of life? Listen in as we discuss the pressing current events unfolding in Israel, and the profound implications these have on our faith and learning. This episode takes a comprehensive look at the Torah in Parashat Bereishis, along with Rashi’s enlightening commentary on the word 'Bereishis.' As we journey through these teachings, we unravel the deep significance of the backstory of our ancestors and how it intertwines with our right to the land of Israel. We discover that this rich narrative isn't merely history, but an affirmation of our place and purpose as the Jewish people. Moving forward, we delve into the heartening verse from the Torah that calls us to bring both our good and bad inclinations to God. Drawing inspiration from the righteous and holy souls that were brutally murdered by the barbaric animals from Gaza, and the wisdom of the Chofetz Chaim, we reflect on the devotion and unity with which we fulfill mitzvahs. In the final segment, we focus on the sanctity of Shabbos, discussing how we can elevate this day and embrace godliness. Tune in, and let's unravel these teachings, overcome negativity through mitzvahs, and strive to become the greatest people we can be. This episode (Ep 6.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated in Honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 13, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 13, 2023 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

This special Sukkos episode is dedicated in honor of our dear friends, Peter & Becky Botvin, who have been such dedicated friends of TORCH for many years! May Hashem continue to bless you with great health and success in all your endeavors. In this episode Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, together with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH President Dan Kullman discuss the many ideas, facets and aspects of Sukkot.  To watch video and/or listen to the podcasts of Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this podcast, email: [email protected].  Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!  For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at www.TORCHpodcasts.com  Recorded in a Private Sukkah on October 12, 2022, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on October 13, 2022 ★ Support this podcast ★ ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us as we examine the morality of evil and its consequences in our modern world, using the narrative of Noach from the Torah as a lens. We reflect on why God decided to obliterate all life forms from the face of the earth, and why such an extreme action is deemed necessary in the face of evil. We grapple with the concept of how man's wickedness impacts the innocent, leading to the destruction of birds, animals, and creatures. Noach, the man who maintained his righteousness in the midst of all this wickedness, is also a focus of our discussion. The discussion continues with a contemplation on maintaining a moral compass amidst ridicule and a wicked world. We explore the need to address our own flaws and promote good in the world, drawing lessons from God's instruction to Noach to obliterate evil. We also talk about how the current global events mirror the tales of the Torah, especially the ongoing violence and terrorism from Hamas in Gaza. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that links ancient wisdom with current events, challenging us to reflect on our own actions and choices in today's world. This episode (Ep 6.2) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Noach is dedicated in Honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing **** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 17, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 17, 2023 ★ Support this podcast ★

Embark on a profound exploration of Genesis, the book that lays the cornerstone of Judaism and the storied beginnings of the family of Israel. Together we unravel the fabric of creation, the inception of humankind, and the lives of its earliest patriarchs, from Adam and Eve's foray into knowledge to Joseph's enduring legacy. As we navigate through these timeless narratives, we uncover the divine orchestration of choice and consequence that permeates the existence of each biblical figure and resonates with the existential queries of our own lives. Venture into the depths of morality with our discussion on the stark contrasts between Noah's solitude and Abraham's dynamic faith. We dissect the nuanced challenges they faced, including intellectual dilemmas and the intricacies of moral behavior within a world veiled in shades of gray. We share wisdom on Abraham's trials and tests in faith, offering a lens through which we can interpret the covenant's implications and the resounding impact of his devotion on future generations. As we draw the curtains on our journey through Genesis, we reflect on the legacies of Ephraim and Manasseh, whose stories hold invaluable lessons for maintaining cultural identity amidst foreign environments. We impart the essence of community, hope, and nurturing a personal bond with the Divine. With these foundations, we invite you to carry forward the torch of the patriarchs, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding within the tapestry of Judaism. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 28, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, I sit down with physicist and author of Emunah and Physics, Dr. Berel Leib Epstein, to explore how modern physics—fine-tuning, quantum observation, and the wave-particle nature of light—doesn’t challenge emunah but illuminates it, revealing the Torah as the blueprint of reality. We discuss why Occam’s razor now favors belief, how the unity sought in physics mirrors Hashem Echad, and how gratitude and good middos open the heart to truth. You’ll come away with a clearer, more rational framework for Emunah and one that deepens awe, sharpens thinking, and highlights the profound harmony between Torah and science. Order the book, “Emunah and Physics”, on Amazon by clicking here! What happens when a theoretical physicist takes on the deepest questions challenging Jewish belief? Emunah and Physics is a bold, brilliant response to centuries of skepticism and a framework for reclaiming faith.    Join the Conversation!  Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.

Join us as we examine the morality of evil and its consequences in our modern world, using the narrative of Noach from the Torah as a lens. We reflect on why God decided to obliterate all life forms from the face of the earth, and why such an extreme action is deemed necessary in the face of evil. We grapple with the concept of how man's wickedness impacts the innocent, leading to the destruction of birds, animals, and creatures. Noach, the man who maintained his righteousness in the midst of all this wickedness, is also a focus of our discussion. The discussion continues with a contemplation on maintaining a moral compass amidst ridicule and a wicked world. We explore the need to address our own flaws and promote good in the world, drawing lessons from God's instruction to Noach to obliterate evil. We also talk about how the current global events mirror the tales of the Torah, especially the ongoing violence and terrorism from Hamas in Gaza. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that links ancient wisdom with current events, challenging us to reflect on our own actions and choices in today's world. This episode (Ep 6.2) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Noach is dedicated in Honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 17, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 17, 2023 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Prayer Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the fifth chapter of Tractate Zevachim, recited daily in the morning prayers as part of the korbanot section, aligning with the Daf Yomi cycle starting October 8, 2025. He emphasizes the spiritual and practical significance of studying the offerings, which substitute for actual temple sacrifices, and their role in fulfilling the mitzvah of daily Torah, Mishnah, and Talmud study. The episode connects the offerings to prayer, personal transformation, and the Jewish mission. Key points include: Purpose of Studying Korbanot: Reciting the verses (Torah), Mishnah (Zevachim, Chapter 5), and Brisa of Rabbi Yishmael (Talmud, planned for next week) before prayers fulfills the mitzvah of daily study, even for busy professionals. This ensures spiritual connection before engaging in prayer, as studying offerings is akin to bringing them (1:15–2:23).Written vs. Oral Torah: The Written Torah (Tanakh: Torah, Nevi’im, Ketuvim) outlines what to do (e.g., mezuzah, shechita), but lacks how-to details. The Oral Torah (Mishnah, Talmud, Midrash, Kabbalah), compiled by Rabbeinu HaKadosh into six orders, decodes these instructions, transmitted from Moshe at Sinai. Rabbi Wolbe recounts helping his attorney friend understand that Moshe wrote the Torah per Hashem’s command, citing Numbers 9:23 and the small aleph in Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1) as evidence of Moshe’s humility (2:23–11:25).Zevachim, Chapter 5’s Uniqueness: This chapter, titled “Eizehu Mekoman” (What is their place?), is unique as the only Mishnah chapter without disputes, reflecting unity and clarity in the laws of where offerings are brought in the temple. This unity mirrors the Kohen’s requirement to be at peace with others to serve, emphasizing communal harmony (13:37–14:40, 24:51–26:01).Types of Offerings:Communal Offerings: The Tamid (daily morning and evening) and Musaf (on Shabbat, Rosh Chodesh, holidays like Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot) represent collective devotion.Individual Offerings: Include Olah (burnt, symbolizing complete devotion), Shlamim (peace, elevating physicality), Pesach, firstborn, tithe, thanksgiving, and Chagigah. Each addresses a spiritual need, like the Olah atoning for forbidden thoughts (18:37–19:21, 28:22–29:29).Prayer as a Substitute for Offerings: Rav Schwab explains that the Amidah parallels the Olah: stripping physicality (hafshet, like skinning), approaching with a broken heart (nituach, like cutting), and praying with fiery enthusiasm (kolil l’ishim, like burning). This transforms prayer into a spiritual offering, connecting the soul to Hashem (29:29–33:16).Spiritual Insights:Dignity in Eating: Rabbi Wolbe cites the Talmud’s comparison of eating in the marketplace to a dog, urging dignified eating (e.g., using utensils, not hands) to elevate the physical, as in the Shlamim offering (22:04–23:55).Jewish Privilege and Responsibility: Responding to his son’s reluctance to attend yeshiva, Rabbi Wolbe highlights the privilege of being among the few Jewish boys studying Torah, despite antisemitism. He notes that hatred (sinah) descended with Sinai, but being chosen demands humility and shining as a light to the world (33:16–37:00).Prayer and Temple Restoration: The phrase “Eizehu Mekoman” evokes longing for the temple, paired with a prayer for its speedy rebuilding. Prayer is most effective after “feeding” Hashem with offerings, akin to Esther’s feast strategy (40:44–41:30). This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharing This episode (Ep. #37) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 9, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #Offerings, #Torah, #Mishnah, #Talmud, #Zvachem, #peace, #unity, #temple, #prayer ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock the secrets of the Torah as we journey through its timeless wisdom and divine teachings. Join us as we embark on an insightful journey through the foundations of the Torah in our Bible Crash Course. Listen in as we address ten pivotal questions that unravel the essence of the Torah, exploring not just its historical and legal facets but its role as a living document, intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. We contemplate its authorship, structure, and the profound connection it establishes between us and the Divine, emphasizing that the Torah is far more than a static record; it is a dynamic blueprint for existence and a testament to an enduring wisdom that transcends time. As we venture further, we dissect the layers of the Torah, shedding light on the Ten Commandments and the powerful partnership they symbolize between mankind and God. The conversation extends to the Oral Law, where the intricacies of Jewish tradition come alive through the interpretations of the Mishnah and Talmud, revealing the meticulous care with which these teachings have been preserved and passed down. Delve into the wisdom of sages like Maimonides and Rabbi Yosef Karo, whose works continue to shape the daily practices of Jewish life, inviting each of us to seek a deeper understanding of the Torah's timeless teachings. Finally, the discussion culminates with a heartwarming story of a friend and lawyer who found himself entangled in questions of the Torah's authenticity. This personal narrative underscores the universal respect for the Torah and its singular, unaltered message that has echoed throughout millennia. Embrace the transformative power of Torah study, as it guides us in refining our character and strengthening our bond with God, ensuring that its wisdom remains as relevant and vibrant today as it was over 3,300 years ago at Mount Sinai. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 23, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 25, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses a passage from Tractate Baba Metzia 83b, focusing on an aggadic narrative about Rabbi Elazar, son of Rabbi Shimon, and a Talmudic exposition of Psalms 104:20. The episode explores themes of divine justice, human sensitivity, and the role of punishment in Jewish law, using a story about Rabbi Elazar’s tenure as a marshal arresting thieves. Key points include: Talmudic Exposition (Psalms 104:20): Rabbi Yosef (or a braisa) interprets “You make darkness, and it is night, in it every forest beast stirs” as this world being like night, where the wicked roam like beasts without immediate retribution. The righteous receive punishment in this world to preserve their reward in the “day” of the world to come, where clarity prevails. This world is for action (mitzvahs), as one cannot perform deeds like charity after death.Rabbi Elazar’s Story: Rabbi Elazar, appointed by the king to arrest thieves, is questioned by Rabbi Yeshua ben Korcha for handing over Jews to execution, earning the rebuke “vinegar, son of wine” (implying he’s a lesser version of his father, Rabbi Shimon). Elazar defends himself, claiming he removes “thorns from the vineyard” (evil from Israel), but is told the vineyard’s owner (God) should handle it. He advises the marshal to identify thieves by observing who drinks and dozes at the fourth hour (10 AM), ruling out scholars, laborers, or quiet craftsmen. Appointed to enforce this method, Elazar arrests a disrespectful laundryman who calls him “vinegar, son of wine.” The laundryman is executed, causing Elazar distress, but it’s revealed he deserved it for a capital offense (cohabitating with a betrothed woman on Yom Kippur). Elazar’s relief is confirmed when his surgically removed fat doesn’t rot, symbolizing his righteousness (Psalms 16:9).Sensitivity in Punishment: Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes the sages’ sensitivity, even when enforcing justice. Elazar’s remorse, despite the laundryman’s guilt, reflects this, as does a surgical test to confirm his integrity. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts this with modern prosecutors’ lack of introspection, urging sensitivity even when enforcing laws (e.g., deporting illegal immigrants). He shares his grandfather’s teaching against hasty punishment, especially with children, advocating apologies and reflection to avoid harm, as punishment should be a last resort.Additional Narrative: The Talmud digresses to discuss Rabbi Elazar and Rabbi Yishmael’s obesity, addressing a noblewoman’s claim that their size prevented them from having children. Their responses defend their ability, showing concern for their children’s legitimacy, not personal pride. The Talmud compares sages’ physical attributes humorously, emphasizing their humanity.Broader Message: The episode underscores that divine justice operates providentially (e.g., the laundryman’s execution), but human enforcers must act with sensitivity, reflecting on potential errors. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to parenting and societal laws, advocating a balance between the letter and spirit of the law, and highlights that this world’s “night” is for action, not just punishment. The episode concludes with a preview of next week’s discussion on Baba Metzia 84a about the beauty of Jerusalem’s people and a call to share Torah content. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on July 25, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 10, 2025 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzm Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Metaphor, #Darkness, #Light, #Righteous, #Wicked, #Leadership, #Sensitivity, #Criticism, #MoralJudgment, #Accountability, #Respect, #Authority ★ Support this podcast ★

Prepare to embark on an enlightening exploration of Sukkot’s four species symbolism. I promise you'll gain a new perspective on the citron, palm branch, myrtle, and willow, not just as physical entities but as spiritual representations of different parts of our body and our commitment to God. We'll also delve into the profound act of shaking the lulav in all four directions, demonstrating God's reign over the world, and our personal commitment to manifesting the changes we pledged during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Let's dive deeper into the essence of Sukkot, understanding the significance of fully committing to its observance, which includes stepping into the Sukkah with our whole being. This act doesn't merely show obedience, but symbolizes a tangible demonstration of our commitment to Hashem. We'll also delve into why the seemingly trivial requirement of having two and half walls for a kosher Sukkah holds a deeper meaning, symbolizing Hashem’s embrace of our repentance and readiness for transformation. Not forgetting each of the seven days of Sukkot, associated with a unique trait of Hashem. Together, we'll learn how to tap into these traits and how they all eventually lead to the oneness of Hashem. We'll also confront the concept of idolatry, understanding that anything obstructing our service to Hashem can be an idol, and how the four species can help us reach a revelation of Hashem, purifying our connection with God. As we wrap up, we'll understand the importance of fully committing to the mitzvah of Sukkot and how it can foster our relationship with Hashem, and ultimately prepare us for the arrival of Mashiach. This episode (#241) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Alan Schneider! **** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 26, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 29, 2023 ★ Support this podcast ★

Prepare to embark on an enlightening exploration of Sukkot’s four species symbolism. I promise you'll gain a new perspective on the citron, palm branch, myrtle, and willow, not just as physical entities but as spiritual representations of different parts of our body and our commitment to God. We'll also delve into the profound act of shaking the lulav in all four directions, demonstrating God's reign over the world, and our personal commitment to manifesting the changes we pledged during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Let's dive deeper into the essence of Sukkot, understanding the significance of fully committing to its observance, which includes stepping into the Sukkah with our whole being. This act doesn't merely show obedience, but symbolizes a tangible demonstration of our commitment to Hashem. We'll also delve into why the seemingly trivial requirement of having two and half walls for a kosher Sukkah holds a deeper meaning, symbolizing Hashem’s embrace of our repentance and readiness for transformation. Not forgetting each of the seven days of Sukkot, associated with a unique trait of Hashem. Together, we'll learn how to tap into these traits and how they all eventually lead to the oneness of Hashem. We'll also confront the concept of idolatry, understanding that anything obstructing our service to Hashem can be an idol, and how the four species can help us reach a revelation of Hashem, purifying our connection with God. As we wrap up, we'll understand the importance of fully committing to the mitzvah of Sukkot and how it can foster our relationship with Hashem, and ultimately prepare us for the arrival of Mashiach. This episode (#241) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Alan Schneider! **** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 26, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 29, 2023 ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock the secrets of the Torah as we journey through its timeless wisdom and divine teachings. Join us as we embark on an insightful journey through the foundations of the Torah in our Bible Crash Course. Listen in as we address ten pivotal questions that unravel the essence of the Torah, exploring not just its historical and legal facets but its role as a living document, intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. We contemplate its authorship, structure, and the profound connection it establishes between us and the Divine, emphasizing that the Torah is far more than a static record; it is a dynamic blueprint for existence and a testament to an enduring wisdom that transcends time. As we venture further, we dissect the layers of the Torah, shedding light on the Ten Commandments and the powerful partnership they symbolize between mankind and God. The conversation extends to the Oral Law, where the intricacies of Jewish tradition come alive through the interpretations of the Mishnah and Talmud, revealing the meticulous care with which these teachings have been preserved and passed down. Delve into the wisdom of sages like Maimonides and Rabbi Yosef Karo, whose works continue to shape the daily practices of Jewish life, inviting each of us to seek a deeper understanding of the Torah's timeless teachings. Finally, the discussion culminates with a heartwarming story of a friend and lawyer who found himself entangled in questions of the Torah's authenticity. This personal narrative underscores the universal respect for the Torah and its singular, unaltered message that has echoed throughout millennia. Embrace the transformative power of Torah study, as it guides us in refining our character and strengthening our bond with God, ensuring that its wisdom remains as relevant and vibrant today as it was over 3,300 years ago at Mount Sinai. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 23, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 6, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses a passage from Tractate Baba Metzia 83b, focusing on an aggadic narrative about Rabbi Elazar, son of Rabbi Shimon, and a Talmudic exposition of Psalms 104:20. The episode explores themes of divine justice, human sensitivity, and the role of punishment in Jewish law, using a story about Rabbi Elazar’s tenure as a marshal arresting thieves. Key points include: Talmudic Exposition (Psalms 104:20): Rabbi Yosef (or a braisa) interprets “You make darkness, and it is night, in it every forest beast stirs” as this world being like night, where the wicked roam like beasts without immediate retribution. The righteous receive punishment in this world to preserve their reward in the “day” of the world to come, where clarity prevails. This world is for action (mitzvahs), as one cannot perform deeds like charity after death.Rabbi Elazar’s Story: Rabbi Elazar, appointed by the king to arrest thieves, is questioned by Rabbi Yeshua ben Korcha for handing over Jews to execution, earning the rebuke “vinegar, son of wine” (implying he’s a lesser version of his father, Rabbi Shimon). Elazar defends himself, claiming he removes “thorns from the vineyard” (evil from Israel), but is told the vineyard’s owner (God) should handle it. He advises the marshal to identify thieves by observing who drinks and dozes at the fourth hour (10 AM), ruling out scholars, laborers, or quiet craftsmen. Appointed to enforce this method, Elazar arrests a disrespectful laundryman who calls him “vinegar, son of wine.” The laundryman is executed, causing Elazar distress, but it’s revealed he deserved it for a capital offense (cohabitating with a betrothed woman on Yom Kippur). Elazar’s relief is confirmed when his surgically removed fat doesn’t rot, symbolizing his righteousness (Psalms 16:9).Sensitivity in Punishment: Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes the sages’ sensitivity, even when enforcing justice. Elazar’s remorse, despite the laundryman’s guilt, reflects this, as does a surgical test to confirm his integrity. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts this with modern prosecutors’ lack of introspection, urging sensitivity even when enforcing laws (e.g., deporting illegal immigrants). He shares his grandfather’s teaching against hasty punishment, especially with children, advocating apologies and reflection to avoid harm, as punishment should be a last resort.Additional Narrative: The Talmud digresses to discuss Rabbi Elazar and Rabbi Yishmael’s obesity, addressing a noblewoman’s claim that their size prevented them from having children. Their responses defend their ability, showing concern for their children’s legitimacy, not personal pride. The Talmud compares sages’ physical attributes humorously, emphasizing their humanity.Broader Message: The episode underscores that divine justice operates providentially (e.g., the laundryman’s execution), but human enforcers must act with sensitivity, reflecting on potential errors. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to parenting and societal laws, advocating a balance between the letter and spirit of the law, and highlights that this world’s “night” is for action, not just punishment. The episode concludes with a preview of next week’s discussion on Baba Metzia 84a about the beauty of Jerusalem’s people and a call to share Torah content. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on July 25, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 10, 2025 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzm Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Metaphor, #Darkness, #Light, #Righteous, #Wicked, #Leadership, #Sensitivity, #Criticism, #MoralJudgment, #Accountability, #Respect, #Authority ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the discussion of Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering halachot 14–22 of the mourner’s Kaddish, completing the first book of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. He emphasizes the spiritual significance of Kaddish in elevating the deceased’s soul by declaring Hashem’s oneness, while noting that modern practice of all mourners reciting Kaddish together reduces the relevance of precedence rules but underscores communal unity. Key points include: Recap of Kaddish’s Purpose: Kaddish, recited by descendants, elevates the deceased’s soul, as per Midrashic stories, by glorifying Hashem’s name. The mourning stages—shiva (7 days, most intense), shloshim (30 days), the first year, and yahrtzeit (annual anniversary)—dictate Kaddish priorities, with shiva mourners taking precedence.Halacha 14–15 (Chazan Priorities): Leading prayers as chazan provides greater merit for the deceased than Kaddish alone, originally instituted for minors unable to lead. Shiva or shloshim mourners have precedence in leading services, except on Shabbos/Yom Tov unless they were the regular chazan. If two equally entitled mourners are capable chazans, they cast lots, splitting the service (one leads until Ashrei, the other from Ashrei onward). A chazan doesn’t forfeit Kaddish rights but should yield to minors or less capable mourners.Halacha 16–18 (Multiple Mourners): Mourning for both parents on the same day doesn’t grant extra Kaddish rights; one Kaddish covers both. Kaddish is recited for 11 months, not 12, to avoid implying the deceased was a great sinner (judged for 12 months in Gehenna). Counting starts from burial, not death, with adjustments for leap years (e.g., stopping on the 9th of Kislev). Rabbi Wolbe shares his grandfather’s request for 12-month Kaddish, approved by Rabbi Elyashiv, reflecting humility, and notes his grandfather’s rejection of eulogies to avoid exaggerated claims, as eulogies are scrutinized in heaven.Halacha 19–21 (Community and Women): If no parental mourners are present, someone who previously lost parents recites Kaddish for all deceased Jews. Other relatives (e.g., grandparents, siblings without children) may recite Kaddish if permitted by parental mourners. Women typically don’t recite Kaddish in synagogue but can do so in a home minyan, ideally with others. A yahrtzeit observer unable to recite Kaddish (e.g., while traveling) can recite it at the next Ma’ariv, as Rabbi Wolbe illustrates with an email about arranging a minyan in Galveston for a cruise passenger’s yahrtzeit.Halacha 22 (Greatest Merit): The greatest merit for parents is not just Kaddish but children living Torah-observant lives daily, honoring parents posthumously (per the Zohar, citing Exodus 20:12). Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes actions like keeping kosher or Shabbos as greater than Kaddish, sharing a story of a bumper sticker (“good” above grass, “bad” below) to highlight the opportunity to do good while alive for ancestors’ merit.Community and Sensitivity: Rabbi Wolbe stresses avoiding disputes over Kaddish precedence, as fights dishonor the deceased. He praises communal efforts, like arranging minyans for travelers, and reflects on the psychological benefits of shiva for healing, noting the custom of walking around the block post-shiva to reenter life. The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #63) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 9, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Mourning, #Kaddish, #Mourner, #Shiva, #Yartzeit, #Condolences, #Grief, #Sensitivities, #etiquette ★ Support this podcast ★

We entered Rosh Hashanah and declared that Hashem is our King and we are His subjects, allowing us to move into Yom Kippur so we could reflect on our previous year and discern when our thoughts, words, and actions were not congruent with that truth. And now it is time to enter our Sukkahs, designed like His arm reaching around us and holding us close. It’s time to recalibrate back to the truth that the only power is the Almighty and that what is central to our lives is not our careers, politics, and other material pursuits, but simply to serve the King by fulfilling his Torah. In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains why Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Hoshana Raba, Shmini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah are all connected and much, much more.  This podcast was recorded for the Shema Podcast by Dan Kullman, President of TORCH, and joined with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Executive Director of TORCH.  Recorded on September 29, 2020, in Houston, Texas Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! Please send your questions or comments to [email protected] Also, listen to the other podcasts available from TORCH at www.TORCHpodcasts.com ★ Support this podcast ★ ★ Support this podcast ★

We entered Rosh Hashanah and declared that Hashem is our King and we are His subjects, allowing us to move into Yom Kippur so we could reflect on our previous year and discern when our thoughts, words, and actions were not congruent with that truth. And now it is time to enter our Sukkahs, designed like His arm reaching around us and holding us close. It’s time to recalibrate back to the truth that the only power is the Almighty and that what is central to our lives is not our careers, politics, and other material pursuits, but simply to serve the King by fulfilling his Torah. In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains why Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Hoshana Raba, Shmini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah are all connected and much, much more.  This podcast was recorded for the Shema Podcast by Dan Kullman, President of TORCH, and joined with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Executive Director of TORCH.  Recorded on September 29, 2020, in Houston, Texas Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! Please send your questions or comments to [email protected] Also, listen to the other podcasts available from TORCH at www.TORCHpodcasts.com ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Prayer Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the fifth chapter of Tractate Zevachim, recited daily in the morning prayers as part of the korbanot section, aligning with the Daf Yomi cycle starting October 8, 2025. He emphasizes the spiritual and practical significance of studying the offerings, which substitute for actual temple sacrifices, and their role in fulfilling the mitzvah of daily Torah, Mishnah, and Talmud study. The episode connects the offerings to prayer, personal transformation, and the Jewish mission. Key points include: Purpose of Studying Korbanot: Reciting the verses (Torah), Mishnah (Zevachim, Chapter 5), and Brisa of Rabbi Yishmael (Talmud, planned for next week) before prayers fulfills the mitzvah of daily study, even for busy professionals. This ensures spiritual connection before engaging in prayer, as studying offerings is akin to bringing them (1:15–2:23).Written vs. Oral Torah: The Written Torah (Tanakh: Torah, Nevi’im, Ketuvim) outlines what to do (e.g., mezuzah, shechita), but lacks how-to details. The Oral Torah (Mishnah, Talmud, Midrash, Kabbalah), compiled by Rabbeinu HaKadosh into six orders, decodes these instructions, transmitted from Moshe at Sinai. Rabbi Wolbe recounts helping his attorney friend understand that Moshe wrote the Torah per Hashem’s command, citing Numbers 9:23 and the small aleph in Vayikra (Leviticus 1:1) as evidence of Moshe’s humility (2:23–11:25).Zevachim, Chapter 5’s Uniqueness: This chapter, titled “Eizehu Mekoman” (What is their place?), is unique as the only Mishnah chapter without disputes, reflecting unity and clarity in the laws of where offerings are brought in the temple. This unity mirrors the Kohen’s requirement to be at peace with others to serve, emphasizing communal harmony (13:37–14:40, 24:51–26:01).Types of Offerings:Communal Offerings: The Tamid (daily morning and evening) and Musaf (on Shabbat, Rosh Chodesh, holidays like Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot) represent collective devotion.Individual Offerings: Include Olah (burnt, symbolizing complete devotion), Shlamim (peace, elevating physicality), Pesach, firstborn, tithe, thanksgiving, and Chagigah. Each addresses a spiritual need, like the Olah atoning for forbidden thoughts (18:37–19:21, 28:22–29:29).Prayer as a Substitute for Offerings: Rav Schwab explains that the Amidah parallels the Olah: stripping physicality (hafshet, like skinning), approaching with a broken heart (nituach, like cutting), and praying with fiery enthusiasm (kolil l’ishim, like burning). This transforms prayer into a spiritual offering, connecting the soul to Hashem (29:29–33:16).Spiritual Insights:Dignity in Eating: Rabbi Wolbe cites the Talmud’s comparison of eating in the marketplace to a dog, urging dignified eating (e.g., using utensils, not hands) to elevate the physical, as in the Shlamim offering (22:04–23:55).Jewish Privilege and Responsibility: Responding to his son’s reluctance to attend yeshiva, Rabbi Wolbe highlights the privilege of being among the few Jewish boys studying Torah, despite antisemitism. He notes that hatred (sinah) descended with Sinai, but being chosen demands humility and shining as a light to the world (33:16–37:00).Prayer and Temple Restoration: The phrase “Eizehu Mekoman” evokes longing for the temple, paired with a prayer for its speedy rebuilding. Prayer is most effective after “feeding” Hashem with offerings, akin to Esther’s feast strategy (40:44–41:30). This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharing This episode (Ep. #37) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 9, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #Offerings, #Torah, #Mishnah, #Talmud, #Zvachem, #peace, #unity, #temple, #prayer ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the discussion of Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering halachot 14–22 of the mourner’s Kaddish, completing the first book of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. He emphasizes the spiritual significance of Kaddish in elevating the deceased’s soul by declaring Hashem’s oneness, while noting that modern practice of all mourners reciting Kaddish together reduces the relevance of precedence rules but underscores communal unity. Key points include: Recap of Kaddish’s Purpose: Kaddish, recited by descendants, elevates the deceased’s soul, as per Midrashic stories, by glorifying Hashem’s name. The mourning stages—shiva (7 days, most intense), shloshim (30 days), the first year, and yahrtzeit (annual anniversary)—dictate Kaddish priorities, with shiva mourners taking precedence.Halacha 14–15 (Chazan Priorities): Leading prayers as chazan provides greater merit for the deceased than Kaddish alone, originally instituted for minors unable to lead. Shiva or shloshim mourners have precedence in leading services, except on Shabbos/Yom Tov unless they were the regular chazan. If two equally entitled mourners are capable chazans, they cast lots, splitting the service (one leads until Ashrei, the other from Ashrei onward). A chazan doesn’t forfeit Kaddish rights but should yield to minors or less capable mourners.Halacha 16–18 (Multiple Mourners): Mourning for both parents on the same day doesn’t grant extra Kaddish rights; one Kaddish covers both. Kaddish is recited for 11 months, not 12, to avoid implying the deceased was a great sinner (judged for 12 months in Gehenna). Counting starts from burial, not death, with adjustments for leap years (e.g., stopping on the 9th of Kislev). Rabbi Wolbe shares his grandfather’s request for 12-month Kaddish, approved by Rabbi Elyashiv, reflecting humility, and notes his grandfather’s rejection of eulogies to avoid exaggerated claims, as eulogies are scrutinized in heaven.Halacha 19–21 (Community and Women): If no parental mourners are present, someone who previously lost parents recites Kaddish for all deceased Jews. Other relatives (e.g., grandparents, siblings without children) may recite Kaddish if permitted by parental mourners. Women typically don’t recite Kaddish in synagogue but can do so in a home minyan, ideally with others. A yahrtzeit observer unable to recite Kaddish (e.g., while traveling) can recite it at the next Ma’ariv, as Rabbi Wolbe illustrates with an email about arranging a minyan in Galveston for a cruise passenger’s yahrtzeit.Halacha 22 (Greatest Merit): The greatest merit for parents is not just Kaddish but children living Torah-observant lives daily, honoring parents posthumously (per the Zohar, citing Exodus 20:12). Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes actions like keeping kosher or Shabbos as greater than Kaddish, sharing a story of a bumper sticker (“good” above grass, “bad” below) to highlight the opportunity to do good while alive for ancestors’ merit.Community and Sensitivity: Rabbi Wolbe stresses avoiding disputes over Kaddish precedence, as fights dishonor the deceased. He praises communal efforts, like arranging minyans for travelers, and reflects on the psychological benefits of shiva for healing, noting the custom of walking around the block post-shiva to reenter life. The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #63) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 9, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Mourning, #Kaddish, #Mourner, #Shiva, #Yartzeit, #Condolences, #Grief, #Sensitivities, #etiquette ★ Support this podcast ★

Discover the profound secrets of Parsha V'zos Habrachah and unravel the mystical nature of Bereishis in our latest episode of the Parsha Review Podcast. As we approach the joyous celebration of Simchas Torah, we explore how Moshe's final blessings reflect his unwavering love and dedication to the Jewish people. Dive into a cherished insight from my father about why Bereishis always seems to have an abbreviated preparation time, and uncover the hidden wisdom within. Through the lens of selfless love, we recount the inspiring story of Reb Shaya'le Kerestirer, whose actions echo Moshe's timeless virtues. Our journey continues with a touching narrative about Rabbi Herschel Schechter, a modern-day Torah scholar whose humility and compassion shine brightly. Learn how a simple blessing for a cab driver struggling with fertility reveals the interconnectedness of our lives through shared faith and compassion. As we reflect on the profound simplicity of Moshe's eulogy, "Eved Hashem," we challenge ourselves to live with purpose, dedicating our actions to serving Hashem. This episode encourages you to follow Moshe's example, striving to fulfill your divine mission with love and dedication. This episode (Ep 6.52) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vezos Haberachah is dedicated in Honor of Eli Banks & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded in the Torchwood Center - Levin Family Studio to a live audience on October 8, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 9, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Stepping into the realm of sacred rituals and spiritual purity, we journey through the Book of Leviticus, unraveling the deep-seated teachings that have shaped the path to divine connection. This podcast episode invites you to traverse  the profound intricacies of ancient offerings and their contemporary implications. We delve into the roles and responsibilities of both the ancient Israelites and the priests, and the resonating lesson from Nadav and Avihu's story about the gravity of adhering to spiritual protocol. Holiness and atonement are cornerstones of spiritual life, and in this session, they come to the forefront as we dissect the Torah portions of Acharei Mot and Kedoshim. The narrative of Yom Kippur unfolds, revealing its timeless message of repentance and the grace of forgiveness that follows sincere change. The respectful treatment of blood in kosher practices opens a window into the ethical fabric woven through our dietary laws, reminding us of the sanctity of life itself. As our exploration reaches its zenith, we turn inward, examining the essence of personal sanctity and the practical steps one can take to maintain it in modern society. From internet use to the sanctification of time, we seek to understand how our everyday choices contribute to a life of holiness. We share reflections on the moral imperatives that guide our interactions with others' property and lives, underscoring the enduring values of respect and restitution. This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 13, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 13, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.1) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Bobbi Asarch & Linda Friedberg who had the idea to start this weekly class! Thank YOU! 00:00 Parsha Summary20:05 Important Lessons Segment Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing ***** To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to [email protected]. Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.Thank you! For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 27,  2022, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 27, 2022 ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 18 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers diverse questions from participants at the TORCH Centre in Houston, recorded on a Sunday before Rosh Hashanah (pre-October 8, 2025). The session covers topics from the spiritual significance of bread-making to mikvah customs, technology’s role, and Rosh Hashanah prayers. Key themes include: Bread and Spiritual Symbolism: The 11-step bread-making process (Sidura DePas) counters the negative spiritual force of 11, tied to the curse of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:19). These steps are prohibited on Shabbat, and the temple’s 11-ingredient incense similarly counters evil, contrasting with the holiness of 10 (e.g., Ten Commandments) (1:06–3:38).Tree of Knowledge: All trees were originally edible (Genesis 1:29, 2:9), not just a cinnamon tree, but this changed post-sin, making only fruit edible (4:13–5:16).Numerology and Superstition: The number 11 isn’t inherently negative for birth dates, and superstitions (e.g., about yahrzeit candles or the number 13) are discouraged. Rosh Hashanah symbols like pomegranates inspire mitzvot, though no one can fulfill all 613 due to specific conditions (e.g., Kohen, Levi, or situational mitzvot) (5:35–10:42).Mikvah Customs: Men have no biblical obligation but follow a rabbinic custom to immerse before Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and festivals, using pools if needed. Women are obligated only post-menstruation, requiring kosher mikvahs. Post-menopause immersion is not required but can be spiritually beneficial, as seen in a case of Shema-induced distress (13:22–19:37, 26:15–28:37).Technology and Free Will: Hashem created technologies like social media to offer free will, allowing choices between good (e.g., sharing Torah) and distraction (e.g., games, news). Rabbi Wolbe uses platforms to spread Torah, urging listeners to prioritize meaningful activities (20:21–25:16).Pidyon HaBen: This mitzvah involves “redeeming” a firstborn Israelite son with five silver coins to a Kohen, symbolizing returning the child to the parents from Hashem (29:49–31:27).Rosh Hashanah Prayers: Focus on ultimate closeness to Hashem, not small personal requests, as this encompasses all needs (health, wealth, wisdom) for divine service, aligning with the holiday’s lofty spiritual purpose (39:52–43:30). The episode concludes with blessings for a sweet Rosh Hashanah, spiritual growth, and a year of health and success, encouraging listeners to share Torah content. Please submit your questions at [email protected] The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #66) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 16, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #JewishTraditions, #Rituals, #Mikvah, #SpiritualGrowth, #SocialMedia, #FreeWill, #Shabbat, #YomTov, #Prayers, #Blessings ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 18 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers diverse questions from participants at the TORCH Centre in Houston, recorded on a Sunday before Rosh Hashanah (pre-October 8, 2025). The session covers topics from the spiritual significance of bread-making to mikvah customs, technology’s role, and Rosh Hashanah prayers. Key themes include: Bread and Spiritual Symbolism: The 11-step bread-making process (Sidura DePas) counters the negative spiritual force of 11, tied to the curse of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:19). These steps are prohibited on Shabbat, and the temple’s 11-ingredient incense similarly counters evil, contrasting with the holiness of 10 (e.g., Ten Commandments) (1:06–3:38).Tree of Knowledge: All trees were originally edible (Genesis 1:29, 2:9), not just a cinnamon tree, but this changed post-sin, making only fruit edible (4:13–5:16).Numerology and Superstition: The number 11 isn’t inherently negative for birth dates, and superstitions (e.g., about yahrzeit candles or the number 13) are discouraged. Rosh Hashanah symbols like pomegranates inspire mitzvot, though no one can fulfill all 613 due to specific conditions (e.g., Kohen, Levi, or situational mitzvot) (5:35–10:42).Mikvah Customs: Men have no biblical obligation but follow a rabbinic custom to immerse before Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and festivals, using pools if needed. Women are obligated only post-menstruation, requiring kosher mikvahs. Post-menopause immersion is not required but can be spiritually beneficial, as seen in a case of Shema-induced distress (13:22–19:37, 26:15–28:37).Technology and Free Will: Hashem created technologies like social media to offer free will, allowing choices between good (e.g., sharing Torah) and distraction (e.g., games, news). Rabbi Wolbe uses platforms to spread Torah, urging listeners to prioritize meaningful activities (20:21–25:16).Pidyon HaBen: This mitzvah involves “redeeming” a firstborn Israelite son with five silver coins to a Kohen, symbolizing returning the child to the parents from Hashem (29:49–31:27).Rosh Hashanah Prayers: Focus on ultimate closeness to Hashem, not small personal requests, as this encompasses all needs (health, wealth, wisdom) for divine service, aligning with the holiday’s lofty spiritual purpose (39:52–43:30). The episode concludes with blessings for a sweet Rosh Hashanah, spiritual growth, and a year of health and success, encouraging listeners to share Torah content. Please submit your questions at [email protected] The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #66) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 16, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #JewishTraditions, #Rituals, #Mikvah, #SpiritualGrowth, #SocialMedia, #FreeWill, #Shabbat, #YomTov, #Prayers, #Blessings ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome back to the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, where we journey from the trials of Egypt to the triumph at Mount Sinai, uncovering the profound transformations of the Jewish people. Listen in as we explore the shift from the familial narratives of Genesis to the birth of a nation in Exodus. Discover how the arduous experiences in Egypt were not just hardships, but the very crucible that forged the identity of the Israelites as the chosen people. We examine Moses' ascension from the Pharaoh's palace to becoming the epitome of empathetic leadership, and delve into the shepherd metaphor that so beautifully illustrates the qualities required of a true leader. As we navigate through this episode, we reflect on the gripping tale of struggle and redemption within the Torah, highlighting that the journey is as crucial as the destination. We unravel the significance behind the Torah concluding before the Israelites' arrival in the Promised Land and offer insights into Moses' reluctance as a leader, juxtaposed with Aaron's eloquence. The conversation takes a turn through the awe-inspiring plagues, the anticipation of the Red Sea's parting, and the daily remembrance of the Exodus, linking it to our present-day practices and traditions. In our final chapter, we discuss the sacred acceptance of the Torah and the establishment of an everlasting covenant with God. Join us as we celebrate Yisro's conversion and the remarkable event of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai, revealing the unity and the encompassing nature of these divine laws. We consider the delicate balance between financial responsibilities and human dignity, emphasizing the transformative power of mitzvahs, the Tabernacle, and the lessons learned from the Golden Calf. Whether you're deepening your knowledge or seeking a spark of inspiration, this episode is a treasure trove of Jewish wisdom and spirituality. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 6, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 11, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

Welcome back to the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, where we journey from the trials of Egypt to the triumph at Mount Sinai, uncovering the profound transformations of the Jewish people. Listen in as we explore the shift from the familial narratives of Genesis to the birth of a nation in Exodus. Discover how the arduous experiences in Egypt were not just hardships, but the very crucible that forged the identity of the Israelites as the chosen people. We examine Moses' ascension from the Pharaoh's palace to becoming the epitome of empathetic leadership, and delve into the shepherd metaphor that so beautifully illustrates the qualities required of a true leader. As we navigate through this episode, we reflect on the gripping tale of struggle and redemption within the Torah, highlighting that the journey is as crucial as the destination. We unravel the significance behind the Torah concluding before the Israelites' arrival in the Promised Land and offer insights into Moses' reluctance as a leader, juxtaposed with Aaron's eloquence. The conversation takes a turn through the awe-inspiring plagues, the anticipation of the Red Sea's parting, and the daily remembrance of the Exodus, linking it to our present-day practices and traditions. In our final chapter, we discuss the sacred acceptance of the Torah and the establishment of an everlasting covenant with God. Join us as we celebrate Yisro's conversion and the remarkable event of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai, revealing the unity and the encompassing nature of these divine laws. We consider the delicate balance between financial responsibilities and human dignity, emphasizing the transformative power of mitzvahs, the Tabernacle, and the lessons learned from the Golden Calf. Whether you're deepening your knowledge or seeking a spark of inspiration, this episode is a treasure trove of Jewish wisdom and spirituality. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 6, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 10, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Siman 134 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering the laws of building a sukkah, timed with the preparation period between Yom Kippur (September 20, 2025) and Sukkot (September 25, 2025). He emphasizes the mitzvah’s spiritual significance as a divine “hug” and a fresh start post-Yom Kippur. Key points include: Sukkot’s Timing and Purpose: The days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot are “free days” for preparation (building sukkahs, selecting four species), keeping one too busy to sin. Sukkot, called “Yom HaRishon” (first day), is the first opportunity for sin post-Yom Kippur, making it a time to establish new, righteous habits. Dwelling in the sukkah mirrors the Clouds of Glory that protected the Israelites in the desert, symbolizing divine protection and closeness.Halachot of Sukkah Construction (Siman 134):Halacha 1: It’s a mitzvah to build the sukkah immediately after Yom Kippur, even on Erev Shabbos (e.g., September 21, 2025). Choose a clean, stable location (e.g., driveway, not mud). Everyone, even dignitaries, should personally participate in building, though the Shehechiyanu blessing is covered by the Kiddush on Sukkot’s first night.Halacha 2: Beautify the sukkah with nice furnishings (e.g., tablecloths, artwork), as one would a home, to honor the mitzvah and the spiritual “guests” (Ushpizin: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc.). Walls must be sturdy, with at least two and a half walls, symbolizing Hashem’s hug.Halacha 3–4: Schach must grow from the ground, be detached, and not be susceptible to ritual impurity (tumah). Bamboo mats or tree branches are ideal; pre-cut wood slats or utensils (e.g., ladders, shovels) are invalid. Consult a rabbi if proper schach is unavailable. Supports for schach can be tumah-susceptible items (e.g., metal) after the fact, though stringencies avoid metal entirely.Halacha 5: Schach must provide more shade than sunlight on the floor. If sunlight exceeds shade or there’s a three-tefach (handbreadth) gap, the sukkah is invalid. Thick schach blocking all stars is still kosher, but if it prevents rain penetration, it’s like a permanent roof and invalid.Halacha 6–7: A sukkah needs at least three walls. Invalid schach (e.g., four tefachim wide, about 16 inches) can split a three-walled sukkah, invalidating it. A space less than four amos (eight feet) from a wall is considered a “bent wall,” valid as part of the sukkah, but don’t sit under it. Schach under tree branches (attached to the ground) is invalid, even if cut later, unless lifted and replaced for the sukkah’s sake.Halacha 8–9: For built-in sukkahs with retractable roofs, open the roof before placing schach. A sukkah doesn’t require a mezuzah if temporary, but a permanent sukkah (e.g., part of a house) does. A borrowed sukkah is valid, but a stolen one or one in a public domain is not, unless no alternative exists.Halacha 10–12: Don’t cut schach from others’ trees without permission. Building a sukkah during Chol HaMoed is permitted. Sukkah materials (walls, schach) are designated for the mitzvah and can’t be repurposed (e.g., as a toothpick) until after Simchas Torah.Halacha 13–15: Don’t step on or degrade sukkah materials post-holiday, as they were used for a mitzvah, like tzitzis. Don’t engrave Torah verses on food decorations (e.g., gourds), as they’ll rot, disrespecting the verses. On Erev Sukkos, avoid eating bread after midday to enter the sukkah with an appetite. Increase charity before Sukkot to enhance the mitzvah.Spiritual Insights: The sukkah represents leaving comfort zones to bond with Hashem, as the Israelites did in the desert, protected by the Clouds of Glory. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of a community member who builds sukkahs for free, reflecting the mitzvah’s joy, and his childhood memories of using tarps in Brooklyn to shield sukkahs from rain, emphasizing practical challenges and solutions. The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, encouraging listeners to embrace the holiday’s spiritual renewal and closeness with Hashem, followed by an invitation to the “Ask Away” segment. The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 6, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:  Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at

Embark on a profound exploration of Genesis, the book that lays the cornerstone of Judaism and the storied beginnings of the family of Israel. Together we unravel the fabric of creation, the inception of humankind, and the lives of its earliest patriarchs, from Adam and Eve's foray into knowledge to Joseph's enduring legacy. As we navigate through these timeless narratives, we uncover the divine orchestration of choice and consequence that permeates the existence of each biblical figure and resonates with the existential queries of our own lives. Venture into the depths of morality with our discussion on the stark contrasts between Noah's solitude and Abraham's dynamic faith. We dissect the nuanced challenges they faced, including intellectual dilemmas and the intricacies of moral behavior within a world veiled in shades of gray. We share wisdom on Abraham's trials and tests in faith, offering a lens through which we can interpret the covenant's implications and the resounding impact of his devotion on future generations. As we draw the curtains on our journey through Genesis, we reflect on the legacies of Ephraim and Manasseh, whose stories hold invaluable lessons for maintaining cultural identity amidst foreign environments. We impart the essence of community, hope, and nurturing a personal bond with the Divine. With these foundations, we invite you to carry forward the torch of the patriarchs, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding within the tapestry of Judaism. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 28, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 17 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, recorded post a lecture on Siman 26 (Laws of Kaddish), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields diverse questions from participants at the TORCH Centre in Houston. The session, held on a Sunday (September 14, 2025, as Rosh Hashanah is referenced as upcoming), covers Kaddish obligations, the coming of Moshiach, the nature of the soul, and Jewish practices during Elul. Key themes include: Kaddish Clarifications: Kaddish elevates deceased souls, primarily a duty for children, but grandchildren, grand-nieces, or close non-biological relatives (e.g., stepparents) can recite it if no one else is available. Women can say it quietly in shul, and converts rely on the community. All mitzvot, not just Kaddish, merit ancestors (0:47–3:12, 26:35–30:44, 42:09–43:41).Moshiach and Global Chaos: The urgency for Moshiach is heightened by recent violence (e.g., Jerusalem bus murders, Manhattan shooting, Charlie Kirk’s execution). Daily Amidah prayers for Jerusalem’s rebuilding and David’s throne, plus mitzvot, hasten Moshiach, who will unify the world under Hashem’s oneness. Jewish diversity (e.g., Hasidic sects) reflects unity in Torah, not division (3:12–14:05).Soul and Reincarnation: The soul, a divine spirit (Genesis 2:7), is eternal, housed in a temporary body. Life’s challenges perfect its “imperfections,” like a diamond. Reincarnation may occur to complete this mission, with gender or form varying by purpose. Its unity is divinely sustained, intangible like sound or fire (14:50–24:43).Elul’s Teshuva: Elul’s “King in the field” offers amnesty for sins, making teshuva potent. Slichot, begun the previous night, enhances forgiveness, aligning with Yimei Ratzon (31:17–34:08).Biblical vs. Customary Laws: The prohibition on shaving with a blade is biblical (Leviticus 19:27), not a custom, unlike arbitrary practices. Rabbi Wolbe clarifies misconceptions, encouraging further questions (37:22–41:20).Prayer and Community: Havdalah is permissible for women, and converts are cherished, with communal Kaddish ensuring their souls’ elevation (34:08–35:20, 42:32–43:41). Please submit your questions at [email protected] The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #65) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 12, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #JewishTraditions, #Kaddish, #Messiah, #Redemption, #Soul, #Shabbos, #Reincarnation ★ Support this podcast ★

Embark on a profound exploration of Genesis, the book that lays the cornerstone of Judaism and the storied beginnings of the family of Israel. Together we unravel the fabric of creation, the inception of humankind, and the lives of its earliest patriarchs, from Adam and Eve's foray into knowledge to Joseph's enduring legacy. As we navigate through these timeless narratives, we uncover the divine orchestration of choice and consequence that permeates the existence of each biblical figure and resonates with the existential queries of our own lives. Venture into the depths of morality with our discussion on the stark contrasts between Noah's solitude and Abraham's dynamic faith. We dissect the nuanced challenges they faced, including intellectual dilemmas and the intricacies of moral behavior within a world veiled in shades of gray. We share wisdom on Abraham's trials and tests in faith, offering a lens through which we can interpret the covenant's implications and the resounding impact of his devotion on future generations. As we draw the curtains on our journey through Genesis, we reflect on the legacies of Ephraim and Manasseh, whose stories hold invaluable lessons for maintaining cultural identity amidst foreign environments. We impart the essence of community, hope, and nurturing a personal bond with the Divine. With these foundations, we invite you to carry forward the torch of the patriarchs, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding within the tapestry of Judaism. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 28, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 8, 2024 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 17 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, recorded post a lecture on Siman 26 (Laws of Kaddish), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields diverse questions from participants at the TORCH Centre in Houston. The session, held on a Sunday (September 14, 2025, as Rosh Hashanah is referenced as upcoming), covers Kaddish obligations, the coming of Moshiach, the nature of the soul, and Jewish practices during Elul. Key themes include: Kaddish Clarifications: Kaddish elevates deceased souls, primarily a duty for children, but grandchildren, grand-nieces, or close non-biological relatives (e.g., stepparents) can recite it if no one else is available. Women can say it quietly in shul, and converts rely on the community. All mitzvot, not just Kaddish, merit ancestors (0:47–3:12, 26:35–30:44, 42:09–43:41).Moshiach and Global Chaos: The urgency for Moshiach is heightened by recent violence (e.g., Jerusalem bus murders, Manhattan shooting, Charlie Kirk’s execution). Daily Amidah prayers for Jerusalem’s rebuilding and David’s throne, plus mitzvot, hasten Moshiach, who will unify the world under Hashem’s oneness. Jewish diversity (e.g., Hasidic sects) reflects unity in Torah, not division (3:12–14:05).Soul and Reincarnation: The soul, a divine spirit (Genesis 2:7), is eternal, housed in a temporary body. Life’s challenges perfect its “imperfections,” like a diamond. Reincarnation may occur to complete this mission, with gender or form varying by purpose. Its unity is divinely sustained, intangible like sound or fire (14:50–24:43).Elul’s Teshuva: Elul’s “King in the field” offers amnesty for sins, making teshuva potent. Slichot, begun the previous night, enhances forgiveness, aligning with Yimei Ratzon (31:17–34:08).Biblical vs. Customary Laws: The prohibition on shaving with a blade is biblical (Leviticus 19:27), not a custom, unlike arbitrary practices. Rabbi Wolbe clarifies misconceptions, encouraging further questions (37:22–41:20).Prayer and Community: Havdalah is permissible for women, and converts are cherished, with communal Kaddish ensuring their souls’ elevation (34:08–35:20, 42:32–43:41). Please submit your questions at [email protected] The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #65) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 12, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #JewishTraditions, #Kaddish, #Messiah, #Redemption, #Soul, #Shabbos, #Reincarnation ★ Support this podcast ★

After six seasons of conversations, questions, and learning, this episode steps back to clarify what The Shema Podcast has always been about. Torah is not meant to be interesting information or cultural storytelling. It is instruction. Instruction for refining ourselves, moving from selfishness to selflessness, and aligning our lives with our Creator. In this season-closing reflection, I explain why precision matters, why being “almost right” is not enough, and why real Torah learning is meant to change who we are, not just what we know. Join the Conversation!  Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.   Explore The Art of Prayer Download a collection of beautifully designed blessings (brachos) including Modeh Ani, Asher Yatzar, Netilas Yadayim and more.  Free to download and perfect for your home by clicking here.

In this Thinking Talmudist episode continuing Gittin 55b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the Talmud's account of Vespasian's siege of Jerusalem and the miraculous rise of Titus (Vespasian's successor). When Vespasian receives word of Caesar's death and his impending appointment as emperor, his feet swell from joy—preventing him from putting on his second shoe—until Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai explains it as "good tidings fatten the bones," then suggests seeing someone disliked to restore normal size. Vespasian, now emperor, questions why Rabbi Yochanan delayed coming; the rabbi cites the violent biryone blocking escape. Rabbi Yochanan requests three things: Yavne and its sages (to preserve Torah study), the family of Rabbi Gamliel (Davidic lineage), and doctors for Rabbi Tzadok (who fasted 40 years to avert destruction but shrank his intestines). Rabbi Yosef (or Akiva) critiques this as "foolish wisdom"—he should have asked to save Jerusalem—but the rabbi feared refusal would doom even Yavne. The episode ends with Titus entering the Temple, slashing the parochet (curtain), seeing blood (interpreted as killing God), and the sages marveling at Hashem's restraint toward blasphemy while rewarding the wicked here to punish them eternally. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 2, 2026 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Gittin, #Kamtza, #Temple, #JewishHistory, #Exile, #Yochanan, #Vespasian, #Titus, #Blasphemy, #Yavne ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Thinking Talmudist episode continuing Gittin 55b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the Talmud's account of Vespasian's siege of Jerusalem and the miraculous rise of Titus (Vespasian's successor). When Vespasian receives word of Caesar's death and his impending appointment as emperor, his feet swell from joy—preventing him from putting on his second shoe—until Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai explains it as "good tidings fatten the bones," then suggests seeing someone disliked to restore normal size. Vespasian, now emperor, questions why Rabbi Yochanan delayed coming; the rabbi cites the violent biryone blocking escape. Rabbi Yochanan requests three things: Yavne and its sages (to preserve Torah study), the family of Rabbi Gamliel (Davidic lineage), and doctors for Rabbi Tzadok (who fasted 40 years to avert destruction but shrank his intestines). Rabbi Yosef (or Akiva) critiques this as "foolish wisdom"—he should have asked to save Jerusalem—but the rabbi feared refusal would doom even Yavne. The episode ends with Titus entering the Temple, slashing the parochet (curtain), seeing blood (interpreted as killing God), and the sages marveling at Hashem's restraint toward blasphemy while rewarding the wicked here to punish them eternally. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 2, 2026 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Gittin, #Kamtza, #Temple, #JewishHistory, #Exile, #Yochanan, #Vespasian, #Titus, #Blasphemy, #Yavne ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Mussar Masterclass (Day 113) on the Gate of Silence in Orchos Tzaddikim, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the profound power of speech through Rabbi Shimon ben Gamliel's declaration: "All my life I grew up among sages and found nothing better for oneself than silence." King Solomon adds that even a fool appears wise when silent, and one regrets speech far more than silence. The episode contrasts four (or five) categories of speech: forbidden (mockery, flattery, falsehood, slander—each excluding one from the World to Come by opposing Hashem's essence of oneness, truth, purpose, and sustenance); unnecessary/idle chatter (most worldly talk); and beloved/permissible speech (Torah study, praising good deeds, condemning evil to guide others, and essential livelihood matters). A clever servant's tongue dish (soft vs. hard) illustrates how words can uplift or devastate. Rabbi Wolbe warns against modern pitfalls like social media's anonymous cruelty and sensationalism, urging mindful, positive speech that reflects inner holiness. Silence protects from sin, fosters listening, and allows deeper spiritual focus—ultimately elevating the soul. Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on June 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 2, 2026 This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim) Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Speech, #Silence, #LashonHara, #KingSolomon, #Words ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Mussar Masterclass (Day 113) on the Gate of Silence in Orchos Tzaddikim, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the profound power of speech through Rabbi Shimon ben Gamliel's declaration: "All my life I grew up among sages and found nothing better for oneself than silence." King Solomon adds that even a fool appears wise when silent, and one regrets speech far more than silence. The episode contrasts four (or five) categories of speech: forbidden (mockery, flattery, falsehood, slander—each excluding one from the World to Come by opposing Hashem's essence of oneness, truth, purpose, and sustenance); unnecessary/idle chatter (most worldly talk); and beloved/permissible speech (Torah study, praising good deeds, condemning evil to guide others, and essential livelihood matters). A clever servant's tongue dish (soft vs. hard) illustrates how words can uplift or devastate. Rabbi Wolbe warns against modern pitfalls like social media's anonymous cruelty and sensationalism, urging mindful, positive speech that reflects inner holiness. Silence protects from sin, fosters listening, and allows deeper spiritual focus—ultimately elevating the soul. Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on June 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 2, 2026 This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim) Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Speech, #Silence, #LashonHara, #KingSolomon, #Words ★ Support this podcast ★

In this opening episode of Strive for Truth, I’m joined by Rabbi Michael Cohen to introduce the work of Rabbi Eliyahu Dessler and to explain why this text requires a fundamentally different kind of learning. Rather than approaching it as philosophy or behavior modification, we frame Strive for Truth as a disciplined study of how a person thinks, chooses, and relates to reality itself. Rabbi Cohen shares his own background with this work, having studied it through Rabbi Aryeh Carmell—the direct student of Rav Dessler who rendered these teachings into English and authored Strive for Truth. Together, we explore the historical context of the book, why it opens with happiness and reward, and why real transformation requires patience, repetition, and honest self-examination. This episode lays the foundation for a long-term series meant not just to understand these ideas intellectually, but to allow them to reshape how we live. Join the Conversation!  Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.

In this Mussar Masterclass (Day 112), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe opens the Gate of Silence (Shtika) in Orchos Tzaddikim, praising silence as the greatest trait discovered among sages. Rabbi Shimon ben Gamliel declares: “All my life I grew up among sages and found nothing better for the body than silence.” King Solomon adds that even a fool who remains silent is considered wise, and one regrets speech far more often than silence. Silence protects from sin—especially lashon hara (slander), insults, and harmful words—while allowing deeper listening and reflection. Rabbi Wolbe critiques modern culture's loss of restraint, especially on social media, where anonymity enables vicious speech people would never say face-to-face (cyberbullying, sensationalism, "if it bleeds, it leads"). He warns that habitual negative speech erodes decency even toward the righteous. The episode calls for cultivating silence not as muteness, but as mindful speech: uplifting others, avoiding gossip, and recognizing words' power to heal or destroy. True wisdom lies in knowing when to speak—and when to refrain. Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on June 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 1, 2026 This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim) Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Speech, #Silence, #LashonHara, #Ethics, #SocialMedia, #Caution ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Mussar Masterclass (Day 112), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe opens the Gate of Silence (Shtika) in Orchos Tzaddikim, praising silence as the greatest trait discovered among sages. Rabbi Shimon ben Gamliel declares: “All my life I grew up among sages and found nothing better for the body than silence.” King Solomon adds that even a fool who remains silent is considered wise, and one regrets speech far more often than silence. Silence protects from sin—especially lashon hara (slander), insults, and harmful words—while allowing deeper listening and reflection. Rabbi Wolbe critiques modern culture's loss of restraint, especially on social media, where anonymity enables vicious speech people would never say face-to-face (cyberbullying, sensationalism, "if it bleeds, it leads"). He warns that habitual negative speech erodes decency even toward the righteous. The episode calls for cultivating silence not as muteness, but as mindful speech: uplifting others, avoiding gossip, and recognizing words' power to heal or destroy. True wisdom lies in knowing when to speak—and when to refrain. Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on June 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 1, 2026 This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim) Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Speech, #Silence, #LashonHara, #Ethics, #SocialMedia, #Caution ★ Support this podcast ★

In this inspiring Parshas Vayechi review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe highlights Jacob's individualized blessings to each son and grandson—emphasizing uniqueness over uniformity—as a model for parenting and personal growth. No "cookie-cutter" approach: every child has distinct talents to nurture, rejecting worldly "equality" (equal outcomes) for Torah's equal potential. Central focus: the eternal Friday-night blessing "Yisimcha Elokim k'Ephraim v'chi'Menashe"—Ephraim and Menashe, raised in decadent Egypt yet remaining steadfastly Jewish, became exemplars of harmony, resilience, and spiritual elevation despite surroundings. Rabbi Wolbe reveals the deeper charge: to merit such children, parents must emulate Yosef—unwavering commitment, resisting temptation, seeing divine plan in adversity. The episode calls for "intentional Judaism": deliberate steps forward (Shabbos observance, kashrut, relationships) rather than stagnation or excuses. Small, consistent improvements—rejecting complacency—honor our unique potential, transforming challenges into growth. Rabbi Wolbe urges viewing life as ongoing journey, not destination, with Hashem guiding every step. This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 2, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 2, 2026 Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired!  Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:  NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Joseph, #Jacob, #Brotherhood, #Vayechi, #Yosef, #Ephraim, #Menashe, #Unique, #IntentionalJudaism, #Parenting, #SpiritualGrowth, #Shabbos, #Blessing ★ Support this podcast ★

In this engaging Ask Away episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields practical and profound questions from participants:Swearing on a non-Jewish Bible in court: In the U.S., one can "affirm" (not swear) under penalty of perjury, avoiding oaths prohibited by Torah; bringing a Chumash is ideal but not required.Cohen status: Transmitted only patrilineally; a Cohen father's daughter does not pass Cohen status to her son.Yom Kippur and Rosh Chodesh coinciding: Impossible, as Yom Kippur is fixed on 10 Tishrei while Rosh Hashanah (1 Tishrei) is always Rosh Chodesh (but overrides it as a greater celebration).Asking Hashem for specific signs: Perfectly permissible and powerful—Hashem responds to sincere, simple requests.Eating in a kosher-keeping but non-Shabbat-observant home: Delicate; Shabbat observance generally indicates reliability in other areas, but during growth transitions, caution is advised to avoid offense.Visualizing during prayer: Avoid images (risking idolatry roots); focus on standing alone under the heavens before Hashem's throne, or the personal intensity of addressing the King of Kings directly. The episode blends halachic precision with inspirational stories, emphasizing prayer as intimate conversation with Hashem, sensitivity in relationships, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Please submit your questions at [email protected] The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #80) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 22, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #Oath, #Kohen, #Prayer, #AskingForSigns #KosherKitchen #Shabbos, #JewishLaw ★ Support this podcast ★

In this engaging Ask Away episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields practical and profound questions from participants:Swearing on a non-Jewish Bible in court: In the U.S., one can "affirm" (not swear) under penalty of perjury, avoiding oaths prohibited by Torah; bringing a Chumash is ideal but not required.Cohen status: Transmitted only patrilineally; a Cohen father's daughter does not pass Cohen status to her son.Yom Kippur and Rosh Chodesh coinciding: Impossible, as Yom Kippur is fixed on 10 Tishrei while Rosh Hashanah (1 Tishrei) is always Rosh Chodesh (but overrides it as a greater celebration).Asking Hashem for specific signs: Perfectly permissible and powerful—Hashem responds to sincere, simple requests.Eating in a kosher-keeping but non-Shabbat-observant home: Delicate; Shabbat observance generally indicates reliability in other areas, but during growth transitions, caution is advised to avoid offense.Visualizing during prayer: Avoid images (risking idolatry roots); focus on standing alone under the heavens before Hashem's throne, or the personal intensity of addressing the King of Kings directly. The episode blends halachic precision with inspirational stories, emphasizing prayer as intimate conversation with Hashem, sensitivity in relationships, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Please submit your questions at [email protected] The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #80) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 22, 2025 Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.   About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #Oath, #Kohen, #Prayer, #AskingForSigns #KosherKitchen #Shabbos, #JewishLaw ★ Support this podcast ★

In this powerful Thinking Talmudist episode on Gittin 55b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the Talmud's explanation for the destruction of the Second Temple and Jerusalem: three tragic incidents rooted in people failing to consider consequences ("hardening the heart"). The primary story involves Kamtza and Bar Kamtza—a host mistakenly invites his enemy Bar Kamtza to a banquet, then publicly humiliates and ejects him despite offers to pay for the entire feast. The silent rabbis' inaction emboldens Bar Kamtza to slander the Jews to Caesar, leading to war and destruction. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the "wrongful humility" of Rabbi Zechariah ben Avkulas, who blocks both offering Caesar's blemished calf (fearing it sets a precedent) and killing Bar Kamtza (fearing misperception of penalty)—prioritizing technicalities over saving lives and the Temple. Parallel stories (rooster/hen destroying Tur Malka; carriage shaft destroying Betar) underscore senseless hatred and violence among Jews enabling Roman victory. Themes include: actions have reactions ("play stupid games, win stupid prizes"); silence in face of injustice is complicity; Jewish strength lies in words/persuasion, not violence; and baseless hatred (sinat chinam) remains the core reason for ongoing exile—urging self-reflection to merit redemption. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 30, 2025 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Gittin, #Kamtza, #Temple, #SinatChinam, #BaselessHatred, #JewishHistory, #Wrongful, #Humility, #Silence, #JewishExile ★ Support this podcast ★

What if the key to raising exceptional, resilient children lies in the unexpected choice Jacob made with his grandchildren? Join us as we peel back the layers of Jacob's profound blessing to Ephraim and Manasseh, challenging the norms of sibling dynamics and parental expectations. With insights from Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe and parallels to the lives of modern icons like Einstein and Elon Musk, we uncover the ancient wisdom that encourages nurturing a child's unique strengths in a world that often pressures them to conform. In our exploration, we emphasize the importance of recognizing and fostering individuality in our children. Drawing inspiration from Jacob's adaptable parenting style, this episode highlights the lifelong journey of self-education and character development. We share a moving story of a doctor who followed a path set by his parents, underscoring the importance of supporting children in discovering their passions rather than projecting our own dreams onto them. By doing so, we can guide them to a future filled with fulfillment and success. Building strong, respectful relationships forms the backbone of a supportive community and family life. Learn how Jacob's example with his grandchildren teaches us to create meaningful connections that empower children to thrive. We discuss addressing common parenting challenges like tantrums through better communication and mutual respect. With personal anecdotes on motivating and engaging with children, this episode offers practical tools for fostering positive behavior, celebrating each child's distinct potential, and cultivating an environment where they can grow into their best selves. This episode (Ep 7.12) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayechi is dedicated by Yossi & Ashlene Azoulay in the merit of a speedy recovery for David ben Simona & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 8, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Torah, #Parsha, #Vayechi, #Joseph, #Parenting, #Jacob, #Blessings, #Ephraim, #Manasseh, #Jewishtradition, #Siblingrivalry, #Integrity, #Individuality, #Einstein, #ElonMusk, #RabbiShlomoWolbe, #Education, #Uniquetalents, #Conformity, #Self-education, #Characterdevelopment, #Relationships, #Respect, #Tantrums, #Communication, #Motivation, #Righteousness, #Spiritualdevelopment ★ Support this podcast ★

In this powerful Thinking Talmudist episode on Gittin 55b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the Talmud's explanation for the destruction of the Second Temple and Jerusalem: three tragic incidents rooted in people failing to consider consequences ("hardening the heart"). The primary story involves Kamtza and Bar Kamtza—a host mistakenly invites his enemy Bar Kamtza to a banquet, then publicly humiliates and ejects him despite offers to pay for the entire feast. The silent rabbis' inaction emboldens Bar Kamtza to slander the Jews to Caesar, leading to war and destruction. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the "wrongful humility" of Rabbi Zechariah ben Avkulas, who blocks both offering Caesar's blemished calf (fearing it sets a precedent) and killing Bar Kamtza (fearing misperception of penalty)—prioritizing technicalities over saving lives and the Temple. Parallel stories (rooster/hen destroying Tur Malka; carriage shaft destroying Betar) underscore senseless hatred and violence among Jews enabling Roman victory. Themes include: actions have reactions ("play stupid games, win stupid prizes"); silence in face of injustice is complicity; Jewish strength lies in words/persuasion, not violence; and baseless hatred (sinat chinam) remains the core reason for ongoing exile—urging self-reflection to merit redemption. The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 30, 2025 Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: [email protected] Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference! Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org Keywords:#Talmud, #Gittin, #Kamtza, #Temple, #SinatChinam, #BaselessHatred, #JewishHistory, #Wrongful, #Humility, #Silence, #JewishExile ★ Support this podcast ★

What if the key to raising exceptional, resilient children lies in the unexpected choice Jacob made with his grandchildren? Join us as we peel back the layers of Jacob's profound blessing to Ephraim and Manasseh, challenging the norms of sibling dynamics and parental expectations. With insights from Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe and parallels to the lives of modern icons like Einstein and Elon Musk, we uncover the ancient wisdom that encourages nurturing a child's unique strengths in a world that often pressures them to conform. In our exploration, we emphasize the importance of recognizing and fostering individuality in our children. Drawing inspiration from Jacob's adaptable parenting style, this episode highlights the lifelong journey of self-education and character development. We share a moving story of a doctor who followed a path set by his parents, underscoring the importance of supporting children in discovering their passions rather than projecting our own dreams onto them. By doing so, we can guide them to a future filled with fulfillment and success. Building strong, respectful relationships forms the backbone of a supportive community and family life. Learn how Jacob's example with his grandchildren teaches us to create meaningful connections that empower children to thrive. We discuss addressing common parenting challenges like tantrums through better communication and mutual respect. With personal anecdotes on motivating and engaging with children, this episode offers practical tools for fostering positive behavior, celebrating each child's distinct potential, and cultivating an environment where they can grow into their best selves. This episode (Ep 7.12) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayechi is dedicated by Yossi & Ashlene Azoulay in the merit of a speedy recovery for David ben Simona & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 8, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Torah, #Parsha, #Vayechi, #Joseph, #Parenting, #Jacob, #Blessings, #Ephraim, #Manasseh, #Jewishtradition, #Siblingrivalry, #Integrity, #Individuality, #Einstein, #ElonMusk, #RabbiShlomoWolbe, #Education, #Uniquetalents, #Conformity, #Self-education, #Characterdevelopment, #Relationships, #Respect, #Tantrums, #Communication, #Motivation, #Righteousness, #Spiritualdevelopment ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Everyday Judaism episode on practical Jewish law (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains the rabbinic obligation of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing) before eating bread—a meal's centerpiece. Rooted in Temple-era purity laws (tumah and taharah) to prepare for terumah consumption, this decree persists today to maintain readiness for the future Temple, promote physical hygiene (highlighted during COVID-19), and foster spiritual holiness by countering arrogance. Key rules include using a complete, spoutless vessel (kli) with a flat top; pouring a generous revi'it (about 3–4 oz) of clean water twice per hand (right first), covering up to the wrist in one flow; reciting "al netilat yadayim" after washing while raising hands; and thoroughly drying (not on clothes, to avoid forgetfulness). Alternatives for no vessel: immersing in a river/mikvah/spring, or (in need) snow or faucet with human force. Rabbi Wolbe shares inspiring stories (Chafetz Chaim's sensitivity and humility) and emphasizes washing's deeper purpose: humbling ourselves before bread's 11-step process, recognizing accomplishments as Hashem's gifts rather than our own. The episode transitions to Ask Away #27, urging maximal spiritual use of Zos Chanukah (eighth day) through gazing at menorah lights, prayer, and abundant thanks to Hashem. The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #27. The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5 This episode (Ep. #81) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 5, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on a captivating journey through the opening chapters of the book of Exodus, where we explore the harrowing circumstances of the Jewish people's enslavement in Egypt. We discuss the rise of a new Pharaoh who, having forgotten Joseph's contributions, subjects the Israelites to brutal oppression. Amidst this darkness, we recount the birth of Moses, destined to be the redeemer of the Jewish people, and the courageous acts of the Jewish midwives who defied Pharaoh's decree to drown newborn boys. Discover how Moses is miraculously saved and adopted by Pharaoh's daughter, and learn about his unique spiritual sensitivity, refusing nourishment from non-Jewish wet nurses. We also draw parallels with stories of revered sages, emphasizing the profound impact of spiritual purity. Listen in as we explore the challenges of maintaining spiritual sensitivity in our modern lives. We address the influence of our environments and media consumption on our spiritual well-being, emphasizing the need for protective measures like filters on our devices. Discover how Shabbat provides an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with family, community, and oneself, fostering spiritual growth. We'll share inspiring stories of Torah scholars overcoming spiritual blockages through focus and prayer, offering practical insights into shielding our minds from distractions. Join us as we reflect on balancing spiritual sensitivity with the demands of contemporary life, guided by the timeless teachings of the Torah. This episode (Ep 7.13) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Shemos is dedicated by Samy & Mikhal Soussan & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 15, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Moses, #JewishMidwives, #TorahScholars, #ModernLife, #MediaConsumption, #Shabbat, #Filters, #ProtectiveMeasures, #MentalFocus, #TorahStudy, #DivineAssistance, #Distractions, #SpiritualIntegrity, #BusyMind, #DistractingEnvironments, #Joseph, #SpiritualSensitivity, #ProtectingWell-being ★ Support this podcast ★

Join us on a captivating journey through the opening chapters of the book of Exodus, where we explore the harrowing circumstances of the Jewish people's enslavement in Egypt. We discuss the rise of a new Pharaoh who, having forgotten Joseph's contributions, subjects the Israelites to brutal oppression. Amidst this darkness, we recount the birth of Moses, destined to be the redeemer of the Jewish people, and the courageous acts of the Jewish midwives who defied Pharaoh's decree to drown newborn boys. Discover how Moses is miraculously saved and adopted by Pharaoh's daughter, and learn about his unique spiritual sensitivity, refusing nourishment from non-Jewish wet nurses. We also draw parallels with stories of revered sages, emphasizing the profound impact of spiritual purity. Listen in as we explore the challenges of maintaining spiritual sensitivity in our modern lives. We address the influence of our environments and media consumption on our spiritual well-being, emphasizing the need for protective measures like filters on our devices. Discover how Shabbat provides an opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with family, community, and oneself, fostering spiritual growth. We'll share inspiring stories of Torah scholars overcoming spiritual blockages through focus and prayer, offering practical insights into shielding our minds from distractions. Join us as we reflect on balancing spiritual sensitivity with the demands of contemporary life, guided by the timeless teachings of the Torah. This episode (Ep 7.13) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Shemos is dedicated by Samy & Mikhal Soussan & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 15, 2025 DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected] Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! #Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Moses, #JewishMidwives, #TorahScholars, #ModernLife, #MediaConsumption, #Shabbat, #Filters, #ProtectiveMeasures, #MentalFocus, #TorahStudy, #DivineAssistance, #Distractions, #SpiritualIntegrity, #BusyMind, #DistractingEnvironments, #Joseph, #SpiritualSensitivity, #ProtectingWell-being ★ Support this podcast ★