Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast on Brachot 60b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches the foundational mindset for confronting life's challenges: “Kol mah d'avid Rachmana l'tav avid”—everything the Merciful One does is for the best. Drawing from Rabbi Akiva's journey, he arrives in a town seeking lodging but is refused everywhere; he sleeps in a field with his rooster (alarm clock), donkey (transport), and lamp (for Torah study). A wind extinguishes the lamp, a cat eats the rooster, and a lion devours the donkey. Each time, Rabbi Akiva declares, “Everything Hashem does is for the best.” That night, an army raids the town—had the lamp glowed, the donkey brayed, or the rooster crowed, Rabbi Akiva would have been captured. By morning, the town is in ruins, but he is safe. Rabbi Wolbe explains we cannot see Hashem's “face” (the future plan), only the “back” (how events tie together in hindsight). Like Moshe seeing the knot of tefillin, we eventually recognize divine orchestration.Rabbi Wolbe connects this to modern resilience, citing released hostages who, after 900+ days in tunnels, immediately sought lulav, tefillin, and prayer—one hostage heard his mother's radio interview through a sleeping guard's device, a miraculous sign he wasn't forgotten. Another refused conversion despite torture, emerging prouder in his Judaism. Rabbi Wolbe urges embracing identity openly (kippah, tzitzit) and taking personal growth steps—no “all or nothing.” He contrasts 365 prohibitive mitzvot (fulfilled by not doing—e.g., avoiding slander fulfills 17) with 248 performative mitzvot (proactive—e.g., delighting in Shabbos with fine wine and meat, which Hashem repays). Quality matters: light Hanukkah candles with passion, use olive oil for dignity, build a sukkah with love. Find your “spark” mitzvah (like one Houstonite who builds sukkot for free) and spread that flame. Prayer should be heartfelt but concise before God (“Let your words be few”), avoiding complaints while pouring out privately._____________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 MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on October 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 21, 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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Perseverance, #RabbiAkiva, #Adversity, #Trust, #Prayer, #Mitzvahs, #Shabbos, #Holiness, #Passion, #Enthusiasm, #SpiritualJourney, #JewishContent, #Commandments, #Hashem, #God, #Faith ★ Support this podcast ★

In this engaging Ask Away #23 episode of the Everyday Judaism podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields practical kosher questions emphasizing accessibility for all levels of observance. Key topics include acquiring utensils from non-Jews: new metal items require Tevilah (immersion in a mikvah) but not Kashering if unused, while repaired vessels over 3–5 ounces need re-Tevilah only if significantly renewed. Countertops like granite are easily Kashered with boiling water, but manufactured stones (e.g., quartz/quartzite) may pose absorption issues—consult a rabbi before purchase. Porcelain sinks can't be Kashered, favoring stainless steel; Formica Kashers via hot water pour-over or steaming iron. Grills reaching 600°F self-Kasher through Libun Gamur (full incineration), and oven self-clean cycles achieve the same.Callers explore nuances like rust (clean for health, not halacha), small vessels (exempt from re-Tevilah if repaired minimally), and non-kosher materials (wood, plastic, silicone can't be Kashered—dedicate new ones to meat/dairy/parve). Mikvahs are pristine via advanced filtration, with separate pools for women, men, and utensils to maintain sanctity. Rabbi Wolbe shares anecdotes, like koshering a friend's grill covertly or his grandmother's accidental dairy-after-meat dessert, stressing mistakes are growth opportunities—inform hosts of your kitchen status to avoid issues.On broader themes, Rabbi Wolbe advises against expecting moral perfection from politicians; Jewish voting prioritizes safety for Jews here and in Israel, reevaluating per election without herd mentality. Torah leaders (e.g., Rebbe Aaron Leib Steinman) exemplify angelic character alongside wisdom. The episode promotes mikvah tours, supporting Jewish products when possible, and embracing ones personal spiritual journey without shame.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #73) 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 November 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 19, 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/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Traditions, #Law, #KosherKitchen, #Countertops, #Utensils, #MoralCharacter, #Politics, #JewishTradition, #Mikvah, #GefilteFish, #KosherLaws ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues in the Orchot Tzaddikim (Day 105, page 615), summarizing the first 12 daily remembrances—Hashem creating us from nothing, granting health, wisdom, Torah, mercy, repentance, and constant closeness—before introducing four more. The 13th urges recognizing when our wisdom and wealth exceed our deeds: if blessed with intellect or money, we must act accordingly now, not delay with “when I earn more, then I'll give.” Rabbi Wolbe shares a young donor who gave $130,000 already toward a $250,000 goal and a Shabbat table debate on lottery winnings, exposing how the yetzer hara pushes charity to “later.” The 14th teaches greeting everyone with a warm smile (sever panim yafot), as water reflects a face, so does the heart (Mishlei 27:19); his great-grandfather perfected this trait for two years despite personal suffering.The 15th reminds us to prepare for the World to Come like stocking a pantry or travel food—accumulate mitzvot, kindness, and Torah, as we don't know when our time ends. The 16th stresses the soul's purity: strong, healthy people die suddenly because Hashem reclaims His “deposit.” Like collateral or a leased car, life is lent; we must keep the soul pristine, repenting daily “one day before death” (as tomorrow may be it). Rabbi Wolbe likens life's ups and downs to a living EKG—flatlines are dead—urging us to embrace curveballs, swing hard, and turn tough days into home runs.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 18, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Generosity, #Self-awareness, #Charity, #Scholarship, #Wisdom, #Opportunity, #Giving, #Procrastination, #ActsofKindness, #Spiritual, #Resilience, #Adversity, #Rest, #Productivity, #GoodDeeds, #Urgency ★ Support this podcast ★

This episode from the Everyday Judaism Podcast, hosted by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, discusses the Halachot (Jewish laws) regarding the immersion (Tevilah) of utensils in a Mikvah, based on the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (Siman 37). The discussion draws from biblical origins (from the conquest of Midian) and covers practical applications, exceptions, and related concepts like Kashering (making utensils kosher). Below is a structured breakdown of the key points, including Halachot mentioned, materials affected, procedures, and special cases.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #23._____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) 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 November 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 16, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Immersion, #Utensils, #Mikvah, #Holiness, #Kashering, #Water ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues in the Gate of Remembrance from Orchos Tzaddikim (Day 104, top of page 611), presenting three daily remembrances to sharpen spiritual awareness. The tenth calls for a daily accounting: Did you follow your yetzer hara (evil inclination) or your Yotzer (Creator)? He urges listeners to serve Hashem more than themselves, and if they've fallen short until now, to begin immediately with full effort. The eleventh contrasts the frantic energy people pour into earning money—waking early, obsessing day and night, and valuing only business connections—with the minimal effort often given to the soul, which is eternal. Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal anecdote about a donor who offered charity only in exchange for business leads, highlighting how worldly pursuits can corrupt even good deeds. He warns that wealth often brings more harm than happiness and is ultimately temporary, while the soul's enrichment lasts forever.The twelfth remembrance is that Hashem sees and knows everything—every thought, intention, and private moment. Just as one prepares meticulously (haircut, fine clothing) to stand before a king or the Supreme Court, how much more should we prepare to stand 24/7 before the King of Kings? Rabbi Wolbe cites Joseph dressing properly before Pharaoh and a former secular hostage who began praying Shema daily in a dark bunker, proving closeness to Hashem is possible anywhere. The episode closes with a bonus reflection on truth in Torah and life: multiple perspectives can be valid (elu v'elu divrei Elokim chayim), as in marriage, parenting, or halacha. Parents must honor each child's unique path (chanoch l'na'ar al pi darko), recognizing different gifts and challenges without comparison or unfair expectations.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 24, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 16, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Spiritual, #Material, #Divine, #Soul, #Purpose, #Purpose ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast on Bava Metzia 85a, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the profound theme of suffering, mercy, and redemption through the stories of Rebbe (Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi) and Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Shimon. Rebbe, inspired by Rabbi Elazar's preserved body due to accepted suffering, voluntarily endured 13 years of excruciating illness—six of tzmirta (a beet-based treatment for urinary stones) and seven of tzfarna (thrush)—to attain spiritual merit. Despite his stableman's wealth and the deafening noise of feeding animals to mask Rebbe's cries, seafarers heard his agony. Yet Rabbi Elazar's suffering was deemed superior: it “came through love and left through love,” while Rebbe's stemmed from a specific incident. A calf, led to slaughter, sought refuge in Rebbe's garment and wept; Rebbe dismissed it, saying, “Go, for this you were created.” Heaven responded: no mercy shown, no mercy received. Thirteen years later, Rebbe's maid swept baby weasels; he intervened, citing Psalm 145:9—“His mercy is upon all His works”—and Heaven declared, “Since he shows mercy, We will show mercy.” His afflictions vanished.The Gemara contrasts their merits: during Rabbi Elazar's years in the attic, no one died prematurely; during Rebbe's 13 rainless years, the earth stayed saturated—radish holes brimmed with water—proving the tzaddikim's pain sustains the world. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the mystical power of 13 (love, unity, the 13 Attributes of Mercy, Torah hermeneutics), noting Rebbe's 13-year ordeal mirrored this divine framework. Posthumously, Rebbe sought Rabbi Elazar's son—a stunningly handsome youth prostituted by harlots—and entrusted him to his uncle for Torah study. Though the boy initially resisted, he grew into a sage; Rebbe applied Proverbs 11:30—“The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life”—to both teacher and student. Burial dramas underscored merit: Rabbi Elazar joined his father Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai in the cave (earned by shared suffering), but his son was barred by a serpent—Heaven clarified it was due to lacking cave-endured pain, not lesser righteousness._____________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 MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on October 3, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 14, 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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Suffering, #Mercy, #Redemption, #Compassion, #Kindness, #Healing, #Sage, #Mystical, #Inclusivity, #Torah, #JewishSoul, #Roots, #Ignorance, #Enlightenment, #Responsibility, #Teaching, #Learning, #Shabbos ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshat Chayei Sarah (Genesis 23–25), beginning with Sarah's lifespan—“100 years and 20 years and 7 years”—which Rashi interprets as her retaining the innocence of a 20-year-old at age 100 and the beauty of a 7-year-old at age 20. The parsha immediately transitions from her passing to Abraham sending Eliezer to find a wife for Isaac, teaching that marriage must be built with the end in mind: not just someone to live with, but someone to die with, focused on long-term purpose and legacy. Abraham, the icon of chesed (kindness), seeks a wife embodying kindness to balance Isaac's natural gevurah (sternness) inherited from Sarah. Rabbi Wolbe stresses that the patriarchs' actions are binding signs for us: prioritize good character over fleeting glamour, as external beauty fades but inner goodness endures.Rabbi Wolbe contrasts superficial “falling in love” (external attraction) with Torah-based matchmaking, where intellect precedes emotion—investigating character through references, teachers, and friends before ever meeting. True love (ahava) stems from hav (to give); the more one gives selflessly, the deeper the love grows. He urges couples to be givers, not takers, and to humble themselves like dust (lakol tia) to honor each other's perspectives, creating a new unified “us” from two distinct individuals. The parsha's repeated narrative emphasizes looking beyond surface miracles to inner essence—Rebecca's proactive kindness to Eliezer and his camels proves her character. Marriage is Hashem's tool for perfection: spouses challenge and elevate each other, building a unique harmony. Rabbi Wolbe shares personal anecdotes, including his son traveling from Lakewood to Montreal to pursue his future wife, reinforcing that men must actively seek and invest effort. He closes with stories illustrating commitment for children's sake and the Mishnah's advice to marry young to avoid entrenched selfishness._____________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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on November 11, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 13, 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Marriage, #Relationships, #Soulmates, #Ancestors, #Sarah, #Abraham, #Kindness, #Unity, #Differences, #Isaac, #Rebecca, #Kindness, #Selflessness, #PersonalGrowth, #Partner, #Purpose, #Priorities, #Therapy, #LifePartner ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Day 103 from the "Gate of Remembrance" in the Orchos Tzaddikim, emphasizing how servants of a king perform tasks with utmost speed, focus, and dedication—turning off distractions and channeling all their energy into fulfilling the king's needs. He draws parallels to serving Hashem, urging listeners to approach mitzvot with the same intensity: expressing gratitude meticulously, performing actions with grace and diligence, and investing in the highest quality items, like the finest menorah or mezuzah, as a true expression of love for God. Using the analogy of carefully selecting flowers for a spouse rather than grabbing anything haphazardly, Rabbi Wolbe stresses that mitzvot are not mere obligations but profound demonstrations of devotion, done lovingly and wholeheartedly without shortcuts or indifference.He categorizes mitzvot into three aspects: those of the heart, performed purely for Hashem without ulterior motives; those involving the entire body, such as physically engaging in prayer (Shuckling) or shopping for Shabbos to immerse oneself fully; and physical actions like shaking the lulav or sitting in a sukkah, which still require intentional focus beforehand. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the Talmudic teaching to expend up to a third of one's resources on perfecting a mitzvah, promising divine rewards far exceeding the investment when done sincerely. He warns against performing mitzvot for social recognition or personal gain, insisting all deeds be dedicated solely to Hashem's name.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 24, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 13, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Mitzvahs, #Love, #Devotion, #Dedication, #Gratitude, #Sincerity, #DivineWill ★ Support this podcast ★

Episode 22 of Ask Away dives into kosher, mikvah, and customs, with 18 questions from Benjamin (NY) and in-person queries. Rabbi Wolbe addresses antisemitism's rise as a call to prioritize Temple/exile awareness, urging discomfort for closeness to Hashem. Key themes:Kosher Details: Spleen/liver differences, roasting liver, gid hanasheh (sciatic nerve) removal, fish blood rinsing (1:03–3:03, 39:54–40:37, 1:06:47–1:07:20).Mevushal Wine: Pasteurized kosher wine safe for non-Jew touch; non-mevushal fine sealed, invalid post-opening if touched (20:50–26:24, 39:09–39:54).Mikvah: Pools valid with 40 se'ah rainwater (biblical for women); showers/bathtubs for men (tisha kavim); blessings for women/utensils (al hat'vilah), not men; conversion TBD (42:45–56:58).Shabbos Candles/Prayers: Personal requests OK (18 minutes early); general prayers (e.g., Sim Shalom) fine, but no specifics on Shabbos—use intent (31:52–36:38).Dishwasher: Separate or hand-wash; hot water transfers taste (33:03–34:43).Organ Donation/DNR: Living OK (mitzvah); post-mortem complex; DNR permissible if pain excruciating, after rabbinic consult (18:35–20:47).Hasidic Dress: Emotional inspiration (Baal Shem Tov); uniqueness (Tzitzis' free strings); don't judge—focus on Chessed (Hatzalah example) (3:04–16:13).Behab (Fasting): Custom post-Pesach/Sukkot for atonement (lashon hara); uncommon, sunrise to stars (1:03:33–1:05:02).613 Mitzvot: 248 positive (limbs), 365 prohibitions (days); total 613—no sequence significance (58:40–59:07).Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #73) 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 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Traditions, #Law, #DietaryLaws, #Liver, #Blood, #Clothing, #GoldenAge, #Salt, #Mikvah, #Conversion, #Tefillin, #Shabbat, #Mitzvah, #Gratitude ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his exploration of the laws of salting (kashering) meat and poultry to remove prohibited blood, covering Halachot 15–28 from Siman 36. He details specific preparations for various animal parts, including the head (cut and salted inside/outside), bones with marrow, legs (hooves trimmed), heart and lungs (cut open), liver (requires roasting over fire after cutting and rinsing, not just salting), spleen (membrane removed), intestines, stomach (milk drained), and eggs found inside birds (salted separately and considered meat). Additional rules address meat left unsalted for 72 hours and singeing birds post-feather removal. Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of witnessing a heart harvest during a medevac flight, reflecting on the miracle of the human body and daily gratitude to God. The episode concludes with a preview of immersing non-Jewish utensils in a mikvah and an invitation for listener questions.The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #22._____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) 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 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #KosherFood, #SaltingMeat, #Blood, #HumanBody, #Miracle ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Friday Thinking Talmudist episode on Talmud Bava Metzia 84b, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the extraordinary life and legacy of Rebbe Elazar ben Rebbe Shimon, a sage whose body remained undecayed in his attic for 18–22 years after death due to his unparalleled righteousness—his vessel solely for Torah and mitzvot, not worldly indulgence. The Talmud recounts how his absence as community marshal prevented women from receiving halachic rulings on purity, halting procreation, echoing stories like Rav Moshe Feinstein's eight-year childless period without a mikvah. Rebbe Elazar's wife observed blood when hairs fell and a worm from his ear, which he explained in a dream as minor punishment for once failing to protest slander against Torah scholars, teaching the grave obligation to defend the righteous and halt lashon hara—worse for the listener who enables its spread than the speaker.The narrative highlights Rebbe Elazar's posthumous miracles: a heavenly voice from the attic resolved disputes, interpreted as divine inspiration guiding just settlements; his unburied body protected the city from wild animals; and a serpent guarded his father's cave until burial. Parallels include the Gaon of Vilna's perfectly preserved body and the Chafetz Chaim's gravesite preventing miscarriages, underscoring burial's sanctity over cremation, which denies body-soul reunion at resurrection. Rabbi Wolbe passionately advocates for tahara (purification rites) by the Chevra Kadisha as a profound mitzvah, preparing the deceased for heavenly judgment, and recommends Rabbi Doron Kornbluth's book Cremation or Burial? for spiritual and environmental insights.Ultimately, the Gemara contrasts Rebbe Elazar's humility and self-imposed suffering to spare Jewish pain with Rebbe Shimon ben Gamaliel's self-description as a "lion son of a fox," proving true anavah (humility) among greats like the Bnei Beteira and Yonatan ben Shaul. Rabbi Wolbe ties this to defending Torah scholars amid Israel's yeshiva draft debates—spiritual pillars merit protection like Pharaoh exempted learners—urging pride in Judaism as Rosh Hashanah approaches, crowning Hashem as eternal King with majesty far surpassing earthly royalty._____________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 MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 7, 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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #RebElazer, #Jewishvalues, #righteousness, #burial, #slander, #LashonHara, #negativespeech, #ChafetzChaim, #humility, #Jewishidentity, #pride, #Jewishburialprocess, #divineprotection, #IDF, #Torah, #RabbiYochanan, #evileye, #Teshuvah, #Hillel, #Shabbos ★ Support this podcast ★

In this second episode on understanding Kaddish from the Prayer Podcast series, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the ancient prayer's origins, composed in Aramaic by the Men of the Great Assembly during the Babylonian exile. Kaddish serves to bring "Hashem awareness" into the lower worlds, bypassing angelic interference since angels don't understand Aramaic. Originally just a half-Kaddish recited seven times daily by the prayer leader, it has expanded to include versions for mourners, siyum completions, and gravesides. The core purpose is Kiddush Hashem—sanctifying God's name—ranging from ultimate martyrdom (like Rebbe Akiva or Rabbi Elchanan Wasserman) to everyday acts of prioritizing God's will over personal desires, such as reciting Kaddish or making Kiddush on Shabbos.Kaddish acts as a spiritual elevator between the four kabbalistic worlds: Asiyah (action, morning blessings), Yetzirah (formation, Pesukei Dezimra), Beriah (creation, Shema blessings), and Atzilus (emanation, Amidah). It solidifies God's presence in each world before transitioning, with no Kaddish between Beriah and Atzilus to avoid interrupting redemption and prayer. Responding with full intent to "Amen, Yehei Shemei Rabba" can nullify heavenly decrees by restoring sanctity removed through sin. The prayer's structure magnifies God's name across all worlds, with congregational responses affirming redemption, peace, and Mashiach's arrival. Numerical symbolism abounds: four opening words reflect God's four-letter name, 10 words spell it out further, and 28 letters/words equal "koach" (strength), emphasizing empowerment through praise.Ultimately, Kaddish empowers every individual to achieve greatness by bringing godliness into daily life, congregations, and the world. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes retraining ourselves to respond with focus, turning routine recitations into acts of profound devotion. The episode concludes with a teaser for next week's dive into Pesukei Dezimra, the verses of praise that "prune" spiritual blockages._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #41) 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 November 4, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 7, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Kaddish, #JewishPrayer, #Hashem, #RabbiAkiva, #Sanctification, #DivineCloseness ★ Support this podcast ★

Episode 21 of the Ask Away series addresses diverse questions on kosher laws, Jewish practices, and spiritual growth, emphasizing practical application and Torah sourcing. Recorded post-Sukkot, the session encourages questioning to deepen understanding. Key themes include:Kosher Laws: Blood is forbidden (Leviticus 17:11), requiring precise kashering (soaking, salting, rinsing). Glass vessels' non-absorptive nature will be clarified later. Pre-kashered meat doesn't need re-kashering when cut, and chicken hearts require special preparation (cutting, rinsing, salting). Contaminated water undermines kashering, necessitating clean water (0:42–25:27).Animal Welfare: Hunting is not Jewish; kosher animals are confined for painless slaughter (shechita). Esau's hunting skill (aided by Adam's garments) was exceptional but not normative, as Jews avoid tza'ar ba'alei chaim (5:31–9:42).Health and Hygiene: Sick animals are non-kosher due to defects (e.g., cancer), requiring post-slaughter inspection. Cockroaches can be removed on Shabbat without killing, and hand-washing reflects halachic hygiene awareness (13:24–24:29).Happiness and Gratitude: Marriage fosters selflessness, per Yevamot 62b, paralleling God's giving. Reciting 100 daily blessings cultivates gratitude, preventing entitlement. Ungrateful children given everything become miserable, unlike those earning rewards (27:06–33:14).Teshuva and Past: Embracing one's past, even with trauma, fuels teshuva and growth. Gratitude prevents “stealing” from oneself the chance to connect with Hashem (35:42–38:31).Marriage and Responsibility: Constant love and selflessness in marriage mirror God's giving. Stories of Rav Scherer and Senator Lieberman highlight prioritizing home duties, reinforcing marriage's role in personal growth (39:17–46:38).Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #71) 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 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 5, 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Kosher, #Blood, #Hunting, #Poultry, #Marriage, #Gratitude, #Happiness, #Relationships, #TorahLaw ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Vayeira, the fourth portion in Genesis, focusing on Abraham's experiences and virtues. He highlights Abraham's revolutionary monotheism and his open-tent hospitality, exemplified by welcoming guests even while recovering from circumcision at age 99. God mercifully makes the day extremely hot to deter travelers, allowing Abraham rest, yet he eagerly runs to greet three angels disguised as men. These angels deliver missions: healing Abraham, announcing Sarah's impending pregnancy, and preparing to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes humility as essential for true kindness, drawing from the Ramban's letter advising to view others as greater, fostering respect and empathy.The discussion delves into the necessity of truth (Emes) for humility and self-improvement, quoting the Chida on avoiding arrogance by honestly assessing one's flaws and gifts from God. Rabbi Wolbe explains that truth demands no compromise, unlike modern courts or even halacha (except for mezuzah placement symbolizing household peace). He stresses accepting personal shortcomings—such as overindulgence or arrogance—as the first step to repair, noting that denial prevents growth. Abraham's plea for Sodom, despite its wickedness, reflects his humble recognition of potential in others and reliance on divine gifts like persuasion.Ultimately, Rabbi Wolbe teaches that success lies in effort, not results, as per the Mishnah in Ethics of Our Fathers: one must strive without expecting to complete the task. He shares personal anecdotes, like his father's focus on best effort over grades, and urges listeners to build individual closeness to God, like the patriarchs, through daily mitzvot and truth. The episode ends with a call to sponsor content via TORCH in Houston._____________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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on November 4, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 5, 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Abraham, #Kindness, #Humility, #Hospitality, #Truth, #Compromise, #Effort, #Striving, #Perfection, #Dedication, #Vayera, #Mezuzah ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues discussing the Orchos Tzaddikim (Ways of the Righteous) on day 102, focusing on the Gate of Remembrance. He emphasizes daily reflections to maximize joy and happiness. The fifth remembrance highlights God's mercy in granting the Torah, which invites study, questioning, and discourse—unlike a king's letter that might provoke offense if queried. This gift encourages a pursuit of truth through endless exploration and debate.The sixth remembrance urges individuals to examine if any part of their body has transgressed divine commands, while observing how all of God's creations faithfully fulfill their purposes. Examples include animals like donkeys and horses performing their roles without complaint, the sun shining relentlessly for millennia, and ocean waves respecting their boundaries. Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal anecdote from a solar eclipse in Athens, Tennessee, where daytime turned to night, prompting crickets to chirp, illustrating the precision of creation. He warns against misusing bodily organs meant for godly pursuits, such as eyes for Torah study or mouths for holy speech.The seventh remembrance compares humanity to a servant cared for by a benevolent master, fostering gratitude and humility. One should avoid arrogance or rebellion against God, recognizing life's mission to serve Him. Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 24, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 5, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Judaism, #Love, #Reverence, #Hashem, #Gratitude, #DivineGifts, #Thankfulness, #Blessings,  ★ Support this podcast ★

This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast explores Siman 36 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, detailing the laws of kashering meat and poultry to remove blood, a biblical prohibition (Leviticus 7:26–27). Rabbi Wolbe explains the historical necessity of home kashering versus modern kosher meat production, emphasizing the process's precision and the Torah's concern for animal welfare. A scandal illustrates the importance of trustworthy kashrut supervision. Key themes include:Kashering Process: Soak meat/poultry in warm water for 30 minutes, salt with medium-grain kosher salt for one hour (24 minutes if urgent), and rinse three times to remove blood, ensuring compliance with the Torah's blood prohibition (0:54–22:52).Modern Convenience: Kosher meat today is pre-kashered by certified agencies (e.g., Aaron's Rubashkin), with mashgichim overseeing slaughter, inspection, and kashering, unlike historical home practices (0:54–4:47, 13:03–14:02).Precautions: Use dedicated vessels, remove visible blood, thaw frozen meat, and ensure proper drainage during salting to avoid non-kosher outcomes (14:59–21:54).Supervision: A God-fearing woman or mashgiach ensures thorough rinsing, as shortcuts risk violating biblical law. Poultry heads and neck vessels require careful handling (22:52–25:17).Animal Welfare: Kosher slaughter and kashering minimize animal pain (tza'ar ba'alei chaim), reflecting Torah values in precise slaughter and ethical treatment (e.g., feeding pets first, avoiding teasing) (25:17–27:28).Kashrut Integrity: A Monsey scandal where non-kosher meat was sold as kosher led to community upheaval, excommunication of the vendor, and dissolution of the kashrut agency, underscoring the need for vigilance (29:44–33:51).The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away segment (Number 21) and a blessing for access to kosher food._____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #70) 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 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 2, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Challah, #Mitzvah, #Bread ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the discussion of Tractate Bava Metzia 84b, focusing on Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Shimon's emotional and spiritual struggle after executing a guilty laundryman (referenced from a prior episode, likely tied to the “vinegar, son of wine” incident). The episode explores themes of guilt, divine justice, Torah study, and the efficacy of prayer, connecting them to personal anecdotes and broader Jewish responsibilities. Key points include:Rabbi Elazar's Guilt and Suffering: Rabbi Elazar, a marshal who executed a disrespectful laundryman (justified by the man's capital offense), feels lingering guilt despite following the law. Like a police officer experiencing PTSD after a justified shooting, Rabbi Elazar cannot rely on his reasoning to absolve himself and accepts physical suffering as atonement. He suffers a severe illness, losing blood and pus nightly, but recovers after his wife prepares 60 types of fig-based food (lifta). He converses with his afflictions, inviting them at night but dismissing them in the morning to avoid disrupting Torah study, showing his dedication despite pain (0:26–3:32).Wife's Reaction and Wealth: His wife, frustrated by his self-imposed suffering and believing he squandered her father's wealth, leaves for her father's house. Sixty sailors then bring Rabbi Elazar 60 slaves with 60 money bags, preparing 60 types of lifta, restoring his wealth. He tells his daughter to inform her mother that “ours is greater than theirs,” citing Proverbs 31:14 (from Eishet Chayil) to affirm that Torah brings sustenance from afar. His wife's absence allows him to return to the study hall (3:32–6:45).Rabbinic Rulings and Validation: In the study hall, Rabbi Elazar examines 60 blood samples from women checking for ritual purity (tahar) during their seven clean days post-menstruation. He declares all samples pure, enabling marital resumption after mikvah. Other rabbis question the statistical likelihood of all 60 being pure, suggesting an error. Rabbi Elazar prays that if his rulings are correct, the women will conceive boys (who cannot become niddah); if incorrect, at least one girl (who can become niddah) will be born. All 60 babies are boys, named after him, validating his rulings and demonstrating divine confirmation (7:07–14:21).Transmission of Halacha: Rabbi Wolbe explains the expertise required to identify impure blood, a skill transmitted from Moshe at Sinai through generations of rabbis, including himself, underscoring the mesorah (oral tradition). This parallels other halachic details (e.g., temple offerings) requiring precise training, like distinguishing colors of blood (8:39–11:27).Prayer's Efficacy: Addressing his daughter's question, Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of praying at the Western Wall for a son to fulfill Pidyon HaBen (redeeming the firstborn), which was granted, and accepting Hashem's choice of a daughter for his second child. He clarifies that Hashem answers all prayers, but not always as requested, citing “Ein Tfilason Chozeres Reikam” (no prayer returns empty). Answers may be “no” or “wait,” tailored to what's best, as seen in Rabbi Elazar's answered prayer (15:04–17:08).Broader Lessons: The episode emphasizes human sensitivity in upholding justice (Rabbi Elazar's guilt), the transformative power of Torah study despite physical suffering, and the communal responsibility to trust expert rabbinic rulings. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to the upcoming holidays (Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, post-October 8, 2025), urging listeners to carry forward spiritual growth and good deeds._____________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 MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 31, 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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Justice, #Law, #Morality, #Guilt, #Redemption, #TorahStudy, #Faith, #Patience, #Prayer ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into day 101 of his series on "Orchis Tzadikim" (Ways of the Righteous), focusing on the trait of remembrance (Zechira) as a vessel for all mitzvot and Torah. He connects it to biblical references like Tzitzit and Tefillin, which serve as reminders to fulfill God's commandments. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the "Six Constant Mitzvos" from Rabbi Yitzchak Berkowitz's teachings—faith in God, rejecting other gods, God's oneness, love and fear of God, and avoiding stray thoughts—as remembrances achievable every moment. He introduces 30 daily remembrances to foster divine favor but details only the first four: God's creation of humanity from nothing, granting health, bestowing wisdom, and providing the Torah as a life manual. Interwoven with personal stories, such as appreciating the present moment and gratitude for life's gifts, the episode emphasizes constant thankfulness to God for existence, health, intellect, and spiritual guidance.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 24, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 31, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Judaism, #Love, #Reverence, #Hashem, #Gratitude, #DivineGifts, #Thankfulness, #Blessings,  ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Prayer Podcast episode, Rabbi Wolbe explores Kaddish's wisdom, recited after the Korbanot section in morning prayers and at all transition points. He outlines five types (Half (Chatzi), Full (Shaleim), Mourner's (Yasom), Rabbi's/Siyum and Burial), their purposes (e.g., sanctifying Hashem's name, elevating souls), and Aramaic origins (e.g., angel-proof, elevative). Talmudic stories (e.g., Rabbi Yossi and Elijah) illustrate Kaddish's mercy-evoking power, recited seven times daily (Psalms 119:164). It bridges spiritual worlds, counters evil, and requires a minyan (10 adults) as a davar shebekedusha, Holy Endeavor. Customs like standing vary (Ashkenaz vs. Sephardic), but unity is key. The episode previews Pesukei D'Zimra._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #40) 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 October 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 30, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Kaddish, #Faith, #DivineProvidence, #GlorifyingGod, #Unity ★ Support this podcast ★

Episode 20 of the Ask Away series of the Everyday Judaism Podcast addresses critical questions about Jewish identity, kosher laws, and Zionism in the context of modern challenges like antisemitism. Recorded post-Rosh Hashanah, the session emphasizes active questioning and sourcing Torah knowledge. Key themes include:Jewish Identity and Antisemitism: Hiding Jewishness fuels antisemitism, as nations act as divine tools to prompt Jews back to Hashem (Deuteronomy 31:16–18, per Gaon of Vilna). Publicly embracing Judaism (e.g., kosher choices) counters hostility (1:03–13:57).Role as Chosen People: Non-Jews (e.g., Costco man, Italian painters) expect Jews to visibly uphold Torah values, as prophesied (Zechariah 8:23), reinforcing the need for pride in Jewish identity (14:45–17:44).Kosher Laws: Dairy and meat can coexist in a cart or refrigerator if sealed and cold, but not cooked or eaten together, with practical precautions to avoid mixing (18:23–23:15).Zionism: True Zionism supports a Torah-observant Israel, not Herzl's secular vision, which secularized Jews (e.g., Yemenites). Anti-Zionists like Neturei Karta misjudge modern Israel's Torah-friendly environment (23:41–32:52).Meaning of Israel: “Yashar El” reflects Jews' direct connection to Hashem, taking personal responsibility without intermediaries, a core Jewish value (33:40–35:02).Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #67) 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 29, 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Antisemitism, #JewishIdentity, #Faith, #Resilience, #ChosenPeople, #Zionism, #Anti-Zionism ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock a profound understanding of self-discovery and spiritual awakening as we journey through the teachings of Parashas Lech Lecha. Discover the timeless lessons from God's command to Abraham, urging him to leave behind the familiar and embrace the unknown with unwavering faith (Genesis 12:1–2). Drawing from the insightful teachings of Reb Nachman of Breslov, we explore the vital process of embarking on an inner journey, transcending material distractions to prioritize the needs of the soul and nurture spiritual growth.Through the story of Abraham, we unveil the concept of individuality and purpose, emphasizing each person's unique combination of traits and potential. Learn how to rise above life's excuses and distractions, using the metaphor of a diamond to illustrate the beauty in personal growth and spiritual development. We encourage listeners to embrace their uniqueness and strive for greatness, recognizing that true accomplishment demands effort and determination against all odds.Gain insights into the divine guidance that helps navigate life's challenges, inspired by Abraham's trailblazing journey. By facing life's tests with faith and consulting spiritual mentors, we can align with our soul's calling and elevate our spiritual journey. Unleashing our divine potential becomes possible when we see life's challenges as opportunities for growth, fostering a life of meaning and purpose enriched by the hidden value of mitzvahs and the wisdom of the Torah. Join us in this exploration of spiritual awakening and transformative growth, guided by the example of one of history's great spiritual pioneers._____________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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 29, 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Self-Discovery, #SpiritualAwakening, #LechLecha, #Abraham, #Individuality, #Purpose, #UniqueTraits ★ Support this podcast ★

In Day 100 of the Mussar Mondays series, Rabbi Wolbe begins the Gate of Remembrance in Orchos Tzaddikim, emphasizing its foundational role in society, ethics, and spirituality. He explains that remembrance enables business, loyalty, and gratitude, preventing harm and fostering trust. Stories like Colin Powell's pro-Jewish stance (due to a Jewish family's kindness) and Mark Twain's truth quote illustrate the trait's power. Key themes include:Essential for Existence: Without remembrance, society collapses, as lending, business, and relationships fail (Deuteronomy 8:11) (0:33–2:30).Loyalty and Prevention of Harm: Recalling benefits curbs ingratitude and harm, as in the Chofetz Chaim's story of vivid childhood memories (2:30–4:44).Practical Applications: Remember pledges, confidences, debts, and Hashem constantly (Psalms 16:8). Daily blessings maintain divine awareness, even in secular settings (6:08–23:46).Truth and Memory: Truth simplifies remembrance; falsehoods lead to inconsistencies, as in Rabbi Moshe Feinstein's case (8:06–10:55).Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 24, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 29, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Remembrance, #Gratitude, #Memory, #Loyalty, #Trust, #Truthfulness, #Integrity, #Honesty, #Kindness, #Responsibility, #Hashem, #Faith ★ Support this podcast ★

This Mussar Mondays episode explores the Gate of Miserliness in Orchos Tzaddikim, contrasting it with generosity. Recorded post-Sukkot, it emphasizes self-improvement through Mussar, focusing on overcoming the “narrow eye” (Tzar Ayin) to adopt a “good eye” (Ayin Tovah). Key themes include:Miserliness Defined: A disgraceful trait of withholding despite abundance, driven by lack of trust in Hashem, leading to insincere hospitality and social isolation (Proverbs 23:6–7) (1:13–4:37).Beyond Money: Miserliness includes withholding time, effort, or wisdom, harming relationships and Torah connection, akin to Sodom's distorted logic (4:37–17:49).Balanced Approach: Yaakov's example shows prudent care for Hashem's gifts (e.g., retrieving jars) but generosity in mitzvot (e.g., giving wealth for Machpelah). Spend wisely on Torah, not vanities (17:49–26:48).Yossala's Lesson: True generosity, as shown by Yossala the Holy Miser, is selfless giving without seeking recognition, contrasting the miser's empty gestures (8:51–13:35).Sharing Mitzvot: Wisdom and mitzvot multiply when shared, increasing blessing, unlike miserly withholding, which curses (Proverbs 11:26) (17:49–36:19).Parenting with a Good Eye: Praising children's greatness shapes positive behavior, while a miserly outlook limits their potential. Trust fosters self-correction, building character long-term (36:19–49:34).The episode concludes with a call to adopt a generous outlook, reflecting Hashem's abundance, and a preview of the next topic, the Gate of Remembrance.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 27, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #OrchisTzadikim, #Miserliness, #Wealth, #Greatness, #PositiveMindset, #PersonalGrowth ★ Support this podcast ★

This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast begins the second book of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on Siman 35, the laws of challah, rooted in Numbers 15:17–21. Rabbi Wolbe explains the mitzvah's biblical and rabbinic dimensions, emphasizing its spiritual significance as a repair for Eve's sin in the Garden of Eden, where the Tree of Knowledge was a bread tree, not an apple tree, correcting a common misconception. The lecture details practical halachot, such as minimum dough quantities, combining doughs (e.g., matzah), handling sourdough, and special cases like Shabbat or Pesach. Key themes include:Challah's Spiritual Role: Separating challah (burned today due to impurity) acknowledges Hashem's ownership, with women repairing Eve's sin by feeding their husbands properly prepared bread (0:57–6:10).Misconception Clarified: The Rosh Hashanah apple-in-honey custom is unrelated to the Tree of Knowledge, which was a bread tree, with the punishment being the laborious 11-step bread-making process, countering the spiritual negativity of 11 (3:16–5:12).Halachic Details: The mitzvah applies to five-grain doughs of five pounds or more, with specific rules for combined doughs, sourdough, non-baked doughs, and delegation. Pre-Shabbat vigilance ensures compliance, especially before Pesach (6:10–19:54).Mishnah Connection: The pre-Shabbat Mishnah (Shabbat 2:6) reminds households to separate challah, alongside eruv and candle lighting, to prepare spiritually (19:19–19:54).Significance: Challah is a tikkun for Eve's sin, especially for women, and is linked to the Mishnah (Shabbat 2:6) urging three pre-Shabbat checks: tithing (challah), eruv, and candle lighting (19:19–19:54)._____________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-zqlLG5This 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 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 26, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Challah, #Mitzvah, #Bread ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Tractate Bava Metzia 84a, focusing on the profound relationship between Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish, their transformative encounter, and the tragic fallout of their dispute. The episode delves into themes of Torah's transformative power, respect for teachers, self-sufficiency, and the Jewish people's global mission. Key points include:Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish's Encounter: Rabbi Yochanan, swimming in the Jordan River, is pursued by Reish Lakish, a highway robber. Rabbi Wolbe digresses to note the Jordan's flow from the sweet Sea of Galilee (a “giver”) to the bitter Dead Sea (a “taker”), symbolizing the sweetness of giving. Rabbi Yochanan praises Reish Lakish's strength, suggesting he redirect it to Torah study, while Reish Lakish retorts that Rabbi Yochanan's beauty suits women. Rabbi Yochanan offers his sister in marriage if Reish Lakish repents, leading to his transformation. Reish Lakish weakens physically upon accepting Torah, as Torah shifts focus from physical to spiritual pursuits, consuming one's energy (6:11–9:54).Torah's Transformative Power: Rabbi Wolbe explains that Torah is not just a subject but a “sam hachaim” (elixir of life), weakening physical desires to strengthen spiritual ones. Reish Lakish's sudden weakness reflects Torah's overwhelming influence, countering the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination), which distracts from study (e.g., causing sleepiness or daydreaming, per Psalms 20). This underscores the incompatibility of material and spiritual pursuits, critiquing modern attempts to “have it all” (e.g., 2008 mortgage crisis).Their Dispute and Tragedy: Years later, as scholars, they debate when a vessel becomes susceptible to tumah (ritual impurity): Rabbi Yochanan says when metals are fused; Reish Lakish says when polished. Rabbi Yochanan's comment, “A thief knows the tools of thievery,” is meant constructively but offends Reish Lakish, who retorts, “How have you benefited me?” Rabbi Yochanan responds that he brought him under the Divine Presence. Reish Lakish's disrespect causes divine retribution, leading to his illness and death. Rabbi Yochanan's sister pleads for mercy, but he cites verses (Jeremiah 49:11) to prioritize divine justice, as Reish Lakish's contempt endangered their bond and the nation's spiritual integrity (29:34–32:14).Rabbi Yochanan's Grief: Rabbi Yochanan is heartbroken, grieving Reish Lakish's loss. A new student, Rabbi Elazar ben Pedas, merely affirms Rabbi Yochanan's teachings, unlike Reish Lakish's challenging 24 questions and answers, which clarified Torah through debate. Rabbi Yochanan's anguish drives him to madness, and the rabbis pray for his death, as his bond with Reish Lakish was central to his existence (50:30–54:38)._____________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 MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on September 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 24, 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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Yochanan, #ReishLakish, #BavaMitzia, #mentorship, #parenting, #marriage, #authority, #respect, #leadership, #reverence ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Prayer Podcast, Rabbi Wolbe discusses Rabbi Yishmael's 13 Principles, the final part of the korbanot section in morning prayers, found in the Sifra's introduction. These principles, a B'raisa (external Talmudic teaching), fulfill the daily Talmud study obligation and connect to Hashem's name and 13 attributes of mercy. They provide a framework for deriving Torah laws without altering them, addressing modern issues like Shabbat elevator use. Key themes include:Purpose in Prayer: Reciting the principles fulfills Talmud study, complementing Torah and Mishnah, and transforms us by engaging with Hashem's name (Zohar), paralleling the 13 attributes of mercy (1:07–5:01).Significance of 13: The number 13 is central (e.g., 13 rivers in Eden, 13 “baruch” in prayers, “echad” and “ahava” equaling 13), symbolizing divine unity and love, aligning with the principles' role in Torah interpretation (5:01–6:59).Torah's Immutability: Rabbis cannot create laws; the principles apply Torah to new contexts (e.g., electricity) without change, preserving divine prescription (6:59–8:33).Personalizing Torah: Study makes Torah “mine,” as per Rebbe Nachman and the Talmud's “in your hand” question, enabling a Gan Eden-like life now (8:33–12:18).Key Principles Explained:Kal vachomer: Logical inference from less to more stringent cases (e.g., Miriam's seven-day exile, Numbers 12:14) (14:23–17:05).Gezerah shavah: Rule application via identical wording, requiring tradition (e.g., “b'mo'ado” for Pesach and Tamid on Shabbat) (18:19–20:52).Binyan av: Extending rules to similar cases (e.g., food preparation on all festivals, two-witness requirement) (20:52–23:51).Call to Action: Read the weekly parsha (Bereshit, Noach) to enrich life, as Torah is a guide for personal growth (23:51–24:12).The episode concludes with anticipation for the next topic, Kaddish, and a blessing for a great week._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #39) 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 October 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 22, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #13, #TorahInterpretation, #KalVachomer, #TorahLaws ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 19 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields questions at the TORCH Centre in Houston, recorded pre-Yom Kippur (September 28, 2025). The session addresses teshuva, holiday practices, human imperfection, political voting, synagogue customs, and sensitive social issues, emphasizing Torah's primacy.Teshuva and Yom Kippur: Yom Kippur's Yimei Ratzon makes forgiveness more accessible, like a sale, but teshuva is always possible. The three-step process (leaving sin, regret, confession) is key, and missing Yom Kippur shouldn't deter repentance (0:57–6:17).Rosh Hashanah Uniqueness: No Shabbos Mevorchim blessing precedes Rosh Hashanah, as its divine blessings encompass all needs. It's a two-day holiday globally, with Shehecheyanu recited both days for new items, unlike other festivals (6:26–11:05).Shabbat Preparations: Husbands prepare Shabbat candles (pre-lighting and extinguishing), and homes are cleaned thoroughly to honor Shabbat. Havdalah extends to Tuesday night if missed, reflecting Shabbat's lingering holiness (11:05–15:07).Human Imperfection: Per Ecclesiastes 7:20, everyone sins (even Moshe). Growth lies in rising after mistakes, like athletes overcoming slumps, emphasizing perseverance over perfection (15:29–17:26).Jewish Voting Patterns: Torah-observant Jews (98–99%) vote Republican for alignment with Torah values (e.g., abortion), unlike non-Orthodox Jews (60–75% Democrat) due to historical gratitude or cultural priorities. Torah-first identity ensures societal contributions while upholding dina d'malchuta dina. U.S. support for Israel brings blessings (18:07–26:33).Synagogue and Modesty: Mixed seating is avoided to maintain prayer focus, not due to biblical prohibition. Modesty extends to avoiding unnecessary male-female interactions, protecting relationships (27:09–31:10).Homosexuality and Leadership: Homosexuality is an “abomination” (Leviticus 18:22), but all are welcome to learn. Private matters stay private; a rabbi's open defiance of Torah requires congregational judgment (33:10–35:53).Survival and Laws: During persecution, Jews prioritize life, historically living near water for escape, as seen in diminished Jewish populations in Poland and Germany (36:40–37:19).Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #67) 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 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 22, 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Atonement, #Forgiveness, #Politics, #LGBTQ+, #Inclusivity ★ 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=sharingRecorded 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor 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 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=sharingRecorded 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor 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 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 MarbinRecorded 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/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Beauty, #Yochanan, #Gemara, #Radiant, #Responsibility, #Humility, #Mentor, #Practicality, #Luxury, #Mindfulness ★ 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 askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor 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 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 askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor 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 ★

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 MarbinRecorded 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/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzmShare your questions at aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #Metaphor, #Darkness, #Light, #Righteous, #Wicked, #Leadership, #Sensitivity, #Criticism, #MoralJudgment, #Accountability, #Respect, #Authority ★ 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=sharingThis 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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 ★

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-zqlLG5This 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the spiritual intensity of Yom Kippur and its seamless connection to Sukkot, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, selflessness, and renewal. He highlights how these holidays inspire a fresh start through acts of unity and service to Hashem. Key points include:Yom Kippur's Holiness: Yom Kippur, known as Yom HaKadosh (the Holy Day), is a time when Hashem desires closeness with us through teshuvah (repentance). The Al Chet prayer combines sins done “be'ones” (by mistake) and “beratzon” (with desire), teaching that even intentional sins stem from momentary weakness due to the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). The Tefillah Zaka prayer, recited before Kol Nidre, acknowledges this struggle, asking forgiveness for succumbing to temptations despite our deeper desire to align with Hashem's will.Divine Forgiveness: Citing Numbers 14:20 (“Vayomer Hashem salachti kidvarecha” – “I forgive you as you have requested”), Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that sincere requests for forgiveness are immediately granted by Hashem, unlike human forgiveness with preconditions. This assurance fosters joy, as seen in sages dancing post-Yom Kippur, feeling unburdened of sins.Sukkot's Role: Sukkot, beginning September 25, 2025, is not a “forgotten holiday” but a vital demonstration of Yom Kippur's renewal. Leaving one's home for the sukkah symbolizes breaking old habits and starting anew, embracing discomfort (e.g., Houston's heat or rain) to avoid complacency. The four species (lulav, etrog, hadas, arava) represent unity among diverse Jews, while the 70 offerings for the nations reflect the Jewish mission to model ethics and morality globally.Selflessness on Yom Kippur: Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of responding to a Hatzalah call at 1 AM on Yom Kippur, driving a patient to the hospital while his daughter babysat the patient's children until 9:30 AM with minimal sleep. This act, inspired by his grandfather's teaching in the Mir Yeshiva to visit the sick during Musaf, exemplifies Yom Kippur's mitzvah of selflessness over selfishness, reinforcing the holiday's essence.Livelihood and Service: Yom Kippur prayers frequently mention livelihood, as financial worry hinders serving Hashem fully. A secure livelihood frees one to focus on spiritual growth, aligning with Sukkot's call to trust in Hashem while living simply in the sukkah.The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, a year of health, happiness, and secure livelihood, urging listeners to carry Yom Kippur's selflessness into daily life.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 5, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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: Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesEveryday Judaism 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:#YomKippur, #Sukkot, #Sins, #Forgiveness, #Joy, #Renewal, #Selflessness, #Mitzvahs, #Kindness, #Blessings, #SuccessfulYear ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the discussion of Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on the laws of the mourner's Kaddish, specifically halachot 5–12, which address priorities for reciting Kaddish when multiple mourners are present. He notes that while these precedence rules are less relevant today due to the common practice of all mourners reciting Kaddish together, they remain significant for understanding halachic priorities. Key points include:Recap of Mourning Periods: Rabbi Wolbe reiterates the four mourning stages—shiva (7 days), shloshim (30 days), the first year, and yahrtzeit (annual commemoration)—with shiva mourners having the highest priority for Kaddish, followed by shloshim, year-long mourners, and yahrtzeit observers.Halacha 5–6 (Kaddish Allocation): Yahrtzeit and shloshim mourners take precedence over those in the first year, but some Kaddishes (e.g., Rabbi's Kaddish, post-Aleinu Kaddish) are reserved for yahrtzeit or shloshim mourners. If both a yahrtzeit observer and a shloshim mourner are present, the shloshim mourner recites first, as their obligation continues the next day, while a yahrtzeit observer's opportunity is limited to the anniversary day.Halacha 7–8 (Resolving Conflicts): When two mourners of equal status (e.g., both in shloshim) want to recite Kaddish or lead services, they cast lots (e.g., rock, paper, scissors). The winner of the evening (Ma'ariv) Kaddish yields the morning (Shacharis) Kaddish to the other, with lots cast for the afternoon (Mincha) Kaddish. Residents take precedence over guests with the same mourning status, but guests (e.g., yahrtzeit or shloshim) are granted at least one Kaddish, even over a resident in the first year.Halacha 12 (Resident vs. Guest): A resident is defined as someone with a permanent home in the community, regardless of tax status, or someone whose deceased parent was a local resident. Guests include those with homes elsewhere or temporary residents (e.g., students, boarders with living parents). A mourner who regularly prays at another synagogue is not considered a guest and is directed to recite Kaddish there.Community Support: Rabbi Wolbe shares an example of Houston's Jewish community arranging a late-night minyan for a visitor needing to recite Kaddish, highlighting communal responsibility to support mourners.The episode pauses at halacha 12, with the promise to continue in the next session, and opens the floor for the "Ask Away" segment, encouraging listener questions._____________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-zqlLG5This 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 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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 ★

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Chukas (Numbers 21:4–9), focusing on the episode of the poisonous serpents sent to punish the Israelites for complaining against God and Moshe. He connects this to Talmudic teachings (Pesachim 56a, Rosh Hashanah 29a) about King Chizkiyahu's destruction of the copper serpent and the book of remedies, emphasizing divine messages through affliction. Key points include:Parshas Chukas Context: The Israelites, impatient in the wilderness, complain about the lack of bread and water, slandering the manna (which adapts to any desired taste). God sends poisonous serpents as punishment, mirroring the primeval serpent's slander against God to Eve, whose punishment was tasteless food (dust). The complaint about manna's “insubstantial” nature reflects ingratitude, triggering a measure-for-measure punishment.Copper Serpent's Role: God instructs Moshe to create a copper serpent (nachash nechoshes) on a pole; those bitten who look at it with proper intention (kavanah) toward God are healed, not by the serpent itself but by divine will. This symbolizes looking upward to Hashem, akin to tzitzis' blue string reminding one of God's throne.Chizkiyahu's Actions (Pesachim 56a): King Chizkiyahu destroys the copper serpent, as later generations worshipped it as an idol, missing its purpose as a divine prompt for repentance. He also hides the book of remedies, which offered quick cures, because it prevented introspection and humility. The sages approve, as illnesses are divine messages to correct one's ways, not to be bypassed with shortcuts.Illness as a Divine Gift: Rabbi Wolbe cites Jacob's illness as the first in history, a divine gift allowing preparation for death through introspection and amends, unlike pre-Jacob sudden deaths (e.g., via sneezing, hence “gesundheit”). Illnesses, like the serpent's bites, are tailored to specific sins (e.g., lashon hara, reflected in the serpent's punishment), urging personal prophecy to decipher God's message.Personal Anecdote: Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of burning his hand while kashering his kitchen, experiencing excruciating pain. Through introspection, he identified a personal failing linked to his hand, and the pain miraculously subsided, reinforcing that afflictions are divine calls for correction.Broader Message: Every event, from illnesses to world news (e.g., a murder story on TV), is a divine mirror for self-improvement. Rabbi Wolbe warns against focusing on external cures (e.g., doctors, medicine) without addressing spiritual flaws, urging listeners to heed God's messages to avoid missing life's purpose.The episode concludes with a blessing for health and a call to recognize God's constant communication, encouraging proactive teshuvah to align with divine will._____________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 MarbinRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on July 11, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 3, 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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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, #DivineJustice, #Gratitude, #PoisonousSerpents, #CopperSerpent, #MeasureforMeasure, #DivineMessages, #Illness, #PersonalGrowth, #Transformation, #Destiny, #PersonalAgency, #Self-Improvement ★ Support this podcast ★

In Episode 16 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, recorded during the month of Elul (preceding Rosh Hashanah 2025), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers diverse listener questions with halachic clarity and personal anecdotes, fostering spiritual preparation for the high holidays. The episode addresses:Shofar Blowing: Women are obligated to hear the shofar and can blow it themselves if unable to attend synagogue, prioritizing mitzvah observance while respecting holiday sanctity (e.g., avoiding driving). Kosher vs. Glatt Kosher: Kosher includes permissible foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables without insects, animals with split hooves and cud-chewing, fish with fins and scales) certified by agencies like OU. Glatt kosher refers to meat from animals with smooth, defect-free lungs, ensuring higher scrutiny. Rabbi Wolbe recounts finding a tumor during a slaughter inspection, highlighting Glatt's rigor.Hospital Kosher Food: Breaking a kosher food seal invalidates its status due to potential tampering or non-kosher equipment exposure. Rabbi Wolbe praises Houston's Aishel House for providing kosher meals to hospital patients, underscoring community support.Jewish Women's Role: Men are obligated (per the ketubah) to provide financially, physically, and emotionally, while women focus on nurturing and child-rearing, though they can pursue careers. Rabbi Wolbe critiques Gen X and Gen Z's entitlement and impatience, urging patience and responsibility.Yetzer Hara: The evil inclination anticipates choices but can be outsmarted with “trickery” (e.g., acting promptly to avoid procrastination), a key strategy for teshuvah during Elul.The episode concludes with a shofar blowing to awaken the soul for Rosh Hashanah, encouraging listeners to reflect on personal goals and prayers. Rabbi Wolbe's responses blend halacha, practical advice (e.g., using Aishel House), and stories (e.g., Rabbi Nota Greenblatt's shofar ruling in Soviet Russia), aligning with Elul's introspective theme.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This 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 September 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 1, 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #Jewish, #ask, #RoshHashanah, #shofar, #womensrights, #kosher, #insects, #glatt, #genderroles, #marriage, #Elul, #mindfulness ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Parshas Ha'azinu (Deuteronomy 32), a prophetic song read on the Shabbos following Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (September 20-21, 2025). He connects the parsha's themes to the spiritual preparation for Yom Kippur, emphasizing teshuvah (repentance) and the bedtime Shema as a daily practice to align with divine purpose. Key points include:Parshas Ha'azinu Context: The parsha, a song foretelling the Jewish people's future, includes a verse (Deuteronomy 32:20) about afflictions against enemies, which Rabbi Wolbe interprets spiritually as the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). He cites the Talmud (Rabbi Yitzchak) that reciting the bedtime Shema protects against spiritual “demons” or negative impulses, linking this to the parsha's message.Yom Kippur Connection: Yom Kippur, beginning with Kol Nidre on September 20, 2025, is a time of purity and unlimited potential through teshuvah. Rabbi Wolbe highlights four designated times for repentance: the Ten Days of Repentance (culminating in Yom Kippur), Erev Rosh Chodesh (Yom Kippur Katan), Erev Shabbos, and before sleep (bedtime Shema). These moments mirror Yom Kippur's introspective judgment.Bedtime Shema's Power: The bedtime Shema, distinct from morning and evening Shema, is a “micro Yom Kippur” where one forgives others, confesses sins, and seeks divine mercy, as outlined in its prayer text. Covering the eyes during Shema symbolizes focusing spiritual vision over physical distractions, aligning with Yom Kippur's theme of self-accountability (chosem yad kol adam bo, “the signature of every person” in the book of life).Practical Application: Rabbi Wolbe proposes a resolution for the new year: recite the bedtime Shema nightly, reflecting for five seconds on daily actions to strengthen good deeds and correct misdeeds. This practice protects against negative influences, fosters teshuvah, and aligns one's life with Hashem's will (Shema Yisrael, declaring Hashem's oneness).Anecdotes and Insights: He shares a story of a recovering addict who transformed after seeing his potential in a mirror, paralleling the introspective power of the bedtime Shema. Rabbi Wolbe critiques modern distractions (e.g., smartphones) and the tendency to judge others, urging listeners to focus on self-improvement and forgiveness, especially for Yom Kippur._____________This episode (Ep 7.49) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Haazinu 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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 30, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 1, 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Deuteronomy, #YomKippur, #self-reflection, #forgiveness, #Shema, #yetzerhara, #Teshuvah, #repentance, #Hashem, #accountability, #microYomKippur, #self-check-in, #personalgrowth ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on the laws of the mourner's Kaddish and the role of the chazan (prayer leader) for mourners. He explains that reciting Kaddish and serving as chazan are significant acts of merit for deceased parents, ideally performed by one person for clarity, though modern practice often involves multiple mourners reciting Kaddish in unison to avoid confusion. Kaddish declares Hashem as the master of the universe, reminding us of life's purpose and the transient nature of existence. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts the reflective clarity gained at a mourner's house, which prompts introspection about life's purpose, with the distractions of a wedding celebration, as per the Talmud's teaching. Key halachic points include:Merit of Kaddish: The Midrash highlights that a child's recitation of Kaddish saves parents from harsh judgment, making it customary for children (or community members, if no children exist) to recite Kaddish, lead prayers (especially after Shabbos), or take the Maftir Aliyah.Precedence Rules: Mourners within the seven-day Shiva period take precedence over those in the 30-day shloshim, the year-long mourning, or annual Yahrtzeit observers. Shiva begins from burial, not death, and Kaddish obligations persist even if a festival interrupts Shiva, unlike other mourning practices.Minors and Yahrzeit: A minor in Shiva shares Kaddish opportunities with yahrtzeit observers, but an adult in Shiva takes precedence, potentially reciting all Kaddishes except one allocated to others via a lot. Modern congregations typically have all mourners recite together, bypassing strict precedence.Mourning Periods: Rabbi Wolbe outlines four mourning stages—Shiva (seven days, with the first three for intense grief), shloshim (30 days), the year, and annual yahrtzeit—noting the psychological wisdom of Shiva's structure for processing loss. He advises silence when visiting mourners unless prompted, sharing personal anecdotes about insensitive comments made during Shiva for his daughter's and sister's losses, emphasizing the need for sensitivity.The episode pauses at halacha six, to be continued, and opens the floor for questions in the Ask Away session. Rabbi Wolbe underscores the spiritual and psychological significance of Kaddish and mourning practices, urging listeners to approach them with purpose and sensitivity.To have your questions featured on the Ask Away series, please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #58) 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 August 31, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 30, 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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#AskAway, #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #JewishMourning, #Kaddish, #Mourner, #Shiva, #Yartzeit, #Condolences, #Grief, #Sensitivities ★ Support this podcast ★

In this bonus episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe covers the 17 sections of Siman 131 from the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, detailing the laws and customs of Erev Yom Kippur, a day blending penitential preparation and festive joy in anticipation of Hashem's mercy on the Day of Atonement. Key practices include:Kaparos: A customary atonement ritual performed early in the morning, using a rooster for males, a hen for females, or money (preferred by Rabbi Wolbe for donation to Houston Tomchei Shabbos: https://tomchei-shabbat.com) to symbolize atonement, with white chickens preferred but not mandatory to avoid superstition. The ritual involves circling the item around the head while reciting prayers, emphasizing repentance over the act itself, with intestines offered to birds to invoke divine mercy.Festive Meals: A mitzvah to eat heartily, especially fish in the first meal and easily digestible foods like poultry in the second, avoiding spicy or warming foods, to equate eating on the 9th of Tishrei to fasting on the 10th.Seeking Forgiveness: Yom Kippur atones only for sins against Hashem, not interpersonal wrongs, requiring direct appeasement or mediation for forgiveness, with a call to forgive sincerely, as withholding forgiveness is un-Jewish. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of Rabbi Mordechai Schwab's sensitivity in protecting his father from embarrassment, exemplifying righteous compassion.Mikvah Immersion: Men customarily immerse in a mikvah after midday for spiritual purity and repentance, with no barriers like jewelry allowed; women typically do not unless specific conditions apply.Candles and Clothing: Lighting candles for the home and synagogue, wearing Shabbos garments for Mincha, and donning a kittel (white robe) to evoke humility, with women wearing white but avoiding jewelry.Vidui and Blessings: Reciting the confession prayer after Mincha's silent Amidah, striking the chest for each sin, and parents blessing children with a special prayer for righteousness and a good life, found in the Machzor.Other Customs: Omitting certain prayers (e.g., Mizmor L'Todah, Avinu Malkeinu), receiving symbolic lashes in some Sephardic communities, and preparing the home with white tablecloths to honor Yom Kippur as a festival. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes starting Yom Kippur early, avoiding preparations for after the fast, and concludes with a story of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein's brother-in-law, illustrating how sponsoring a mikvah fulfills teshuvah's three steps (regret, acceptance, action), reinforcing the theme of actionable repentance.Rabbi Wolbe concludes with a blessing for complete atonement, a sweet and healthy new year, and acceptance of sincere repentance.To donate to Houston's Tomchei Shabbos: https://tomchei-shabbat.com_____________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-zqlLG5This 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 September 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 29, 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #Jewish, #YomKippur, #Purification, #Repentance, #Kaparos, #Atonement, #DivineMercy, #Rituals, #Mikvah, #Kindness, #Humility, #Teshuva, #CandleLighting, #Shabbos, #Fasting, #Kittel, #Sanctity, #Renewal ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Parshas Vayelech, a concise 70-verse portion detailing the final day of Moshe's life, where he writes 13 Torah scrolls—one for each of the 12 tribes and one for the Ark—to guide the Jewish people as they enter the Promised Land. Rabbi Wolbe notes the Torah's unique status as a divine document, identical worldwide, unlike other religious texts with multiple versions, emphasizing its public revelation at Sinai, acknowledged by other faiths. He explains that the Torah, given as a manual for living in Israel, was completed just before entry to underscore its applicability there, with rabbinic observance mandated outside Israel to maintain readiness. Moshe's leadership transition to Joshua is highlighted as a model of responsible succession, ensuring stability. Rabbi Wolbe connects this to the Ten Days of Repentance, urging listeners to demonstrate change through actions like adopting stringencies (e.g., Pas Yisroel, eating only Jewish-baked bread), as beginnings set the foundation for future success, akin to laying pure foundations for a child's psychology or Noah's care for the lion. He emphasizes Hashem's promise (Deuteronomy 31:6) to never forsake the Jewish people, citing their resilience despite historical persecution and their unparalleled contributions to society, as evidenced by America's blessings for supporting Israel. Rabbi Wolbe encourages embracing the Torah's guidance, living with Shabbos' sanctity, and recognizing Hashem's protection, concluding with a call for a meaningful Shabbos and anticipation of the Third Temple. Addressing an audience clarification, he likens the Torah to a souvenir of Sinai's revelation, encapsulating 613 mitzvahs to reconnect with that divine moment._____________This episode (Ep 7.48) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeilech 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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 26, 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 awolbe@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Deuteronomy, #Moshe, #LandofIsrael, #PublicRevelation, #MountSinai, #UN, #Shabbos, #Sabbath, #DivineGift, #Family, #Community, #God ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the approaching Rosh Hashanah, just two days away, emphasizing it as a time to realign with one's purpose and mission in life. He encourages listeners to evaluate their goals for the new year, citing his own experience of surpassing ambitious goals from the previous year as evidence of divine assistance when one commits to meaningful objectives. Drawing from the Mesillat Yesharim by the Ramchal, Rabbi Wolbe underscores the importance of cleaving to Hashem by aligning personal will with divine will, as exemplified by Moshe, described as a servant of Hashem in his eulogy. He explains that repentance (teshuvah) involves removing barriers like arrogance, comforts, and distractions (e.g., social media, gaming) that separate us from Hashem, returning to a state of oneness akin to a fetus in the womb, unburdened by physical limitations. Referencing Parshas Nitzavim, he highlights the verse (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) that the mitzvah—interpreted by Rashi as Torah study and by the Ramban as teshuvah—is accessible through the heart and mouth, requiring desire and effort. Rabbi Wolbe shares personal anecdotes, like his struggle to master drumming rhythms and his initial intimidation teaching complex prayers, to illustrate that persistent effort, even in the face of doubt, leads to divine clarity and success. He stresses the importance of accepting rabbinic guidance humbly, even when disagreeing, and critiques congregational disregard for rabbis' spiritual leadership. Finally, he connects the numerical value of “this mitzvah” (zot, 408) to teshuvah, tefillah, and tzedakah (fasting, prayer, charity), which remove evil decrees, sharing a donor's perspective that charity is giving God's money, reinforcing divine trust. Rabbi Wolbe concludes with a blessing for a year of health, clarity, and Torah study, urging listeners to recognize Hashem as the source of all creation.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 22, 2025_____________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 aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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: Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesEveryday Judaism 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:#RoshHashanah, #Self-reflection, #Teshuva, #Repentance, #JewishPrinciples, #Hashem, #Humility, #Guidance, #Kindness, #GoodHealth, #Clarity, #DivineEnergy ★ Support this podcast ★

In this 15th episode of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses two questions related to Jewish practices surrounding death and repentance. Responding to Marilyn Robinson's question about prayers at a loved one's gravesite, Rabbi Wolbe explains the custom of reciting Psalm 119, using the letters of the deceased's name (and sometimes their parents' names) to select verses, followed by Kaddish with a minyan for its protective power over the soul. He emphasizes that Kaddish acknowledges Hashem's mastery, helping cleanse the soul from worldly distractions during the temporary purgatory process, which is not eternal except for the truly wicked. Personal prayers or conversations at the gravesite are valid for healing, but one should not pray to the deceased, only asking them to intercede with Hashem. Addressing the second question about Selichot timing, Rabbi Wolbe notes that Sephardic Jews begin Selichot at the start of Elul, following Moshe's ascent for the second tablets, marked by daily shofar blowing to prevent sin, while Ashkenazic Jews start a week or four days before Rosh Hashanah, depending on the calendar. Both communities recite Selichot during the Ten Days of Repentance, aligning with the period of seeking forgiveness, which Hashem grants readily upon sincere request, unlike human grudges. Rabbi Wolbe encourages learning from Hashem's forgiving nature and invites further questions for future episodes.In this episode of Ask Away we address these questions and topics:Marilyn: What is a prayer you recite at a loved one's gravesite?Carlos: Why do some start Selichot one month before Rosh Hashanah and others 10 days or a week before?Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________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-zqlLG5This 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 August 31, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 22, 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 askaway@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________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/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Halacha, #Jewish, #Customs, #spirituality, #gravesite, #Kaddish, #afterlife, #faith, #responsibility, #inspire, #faith ★ Support this podcast ★