Podcasts about bilaam

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, we discuss the recent preemptive Israeli military operation against Iran, named "Am Kelavi" (Rising Lion), drawing a parallel to a Torah verse from Numbers 23:24 that likens the Jewish people to a lion—resilient, patient, yet fierce when provoked. He recounts the biblical story of Bilaam, hired by King Balak to curse the Jewish people, only to bless them instead, highlighting divine protection and intervention. We emphasize that Israel's strength lies not in its military or intelligence prowess alone, such as the Mossad or IDF, but in its spiritual connection to Hashem (God). He reflects on the open miracles witnessed on June 13, 2025, referencing Iran's earlier ballistic missile attack on April 14, 2024, which allowed Israel to refine its defenses. We underscore that the Jewish people's true power stems from their faith, prayers, and adherence to mitzvahs (commandments), even amidst adversity, as they remain under divine guardianship.We further explore the concept of spiritual transformation, tying it to the number 40 in Jewish tradition, symbolizing renewal and creation, as seen in events like the 40 years in the desert, 40 days of rain during Noah's flood, and 40 weeks of gestation. We share a poignant story of a boy who intended to save a piece of cake for his mother but ended up with only crumbs, illustrating that even small, imperfect efforts are cherished by God if done with sincerity. We encourage listeners to seize the current miraculous times as an opportunity to deepen their relationship with Hashem through small acts of mitzvahs, emphasizing that every Jew's efforts, no matter how small, contribute to the nation's spiritual strength. The episode concludes with a call to action to break from complacency, embrace mitzvahs, and trust in divine guidance, with the hope for peace and the coming of the Messiah._____________Recorded from a live audience presentation in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on June 13, 2025.Released as Podcast on June 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.orgPlease visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Israel, #Jewish Inspiration, #Torah, #Am Kelavi, #Divine Protection, #Mitzvahs, #Miracles, #Number40, #Spiritual Strength, #Hashem ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, we discuss the recent preemptive Israeli military operation against Iran, named "Am Kelavi" (Rising Lion), drawing a parallel to a Torah verse from Numbers 23:24 that likens the Jewish people to a lion—resilient, patient, yet fierce when provoked. He recounts the biblical story of Bilaam, hired by King Balak to curse the Jewish people, only to bless them instead, highlighting divine protection and intervention. We emphasize that Israel's strength lies not in its military or intelligence prowess alone, such as the Mossad or IDF, but in its spiritual connection to Hashem (God). He reflects on the open miracles witnessed on June 13, 2025, referencing Iran's earlier ballistic missile attack on April 14, 2024, which allowed Israel to refine its defenses. We underscore that the Jewish people's true power stems from their faith, prayers, and adherence to mitzvahs (commandments), even amidst adversity, as they remain under divine guardianship.We further explore the concept of spiritual transformation, tying it to the number 40 in Jewish tradition, symbolizing renewal and creation, as seen in events like the 40 years in the desert, 40 days of rain during Noah's flood, and 40 weeks of gestation. We share a poignant story of a boy who intended to save a piece of cake for his mother but ended up with only crumbs, illustrating that even small, imperfect efforts are cherished by God if done with sincerity. We encourage listeners to seize the current miraculous times as an opportunity to deepen their relationship with Hashem through small acts of mitzvahs, emphasizing that every Jew's efforts, no matter how small, contribute to the nation's spiritual strength. The episode concludes with a call to action to break from complacency, embrace mitzvahs, and trust in divine guidance, with the hope for peace and the coming of the Messiah._____________Recorded from a live audience presentation in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on June 13, 2025.Released as Podcast on June 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.orgPlease visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Israel, #Jewish Inspiration, #Torah, #Am Kelavi, #Divine Protection, #Mitzvahs, #Miracles, #Number40, #Spiritual Strength, #Hashem ★ Support this podcast ★

Learning at this Special Melava Malka at home, which is pretty much on lock down, due to a war escalation with Iran... instead of traveling with my Chavrusah to TLV for a Laivy Miller live Show, we sat with my boyz, made a lchaim thanking Hashem and continued a deep Torah in Likutei Moharan from Rebbe Nachman ben Faiga / Simcha...Fixing up Speech and transformimg the Judgements of Exile to the Kindness of Redemption...Cover pic from the holy land by Dov Kram with an additional pic from Lebanon war days - PLEASE KEEP

This week we will discuss various aggadic and halachic topics, including the dangers of scoffing at Torah, the fate of different biblical figures in the World to Come, and stories about the downfall of wicked individuals like Nebuchadnezzar and Bilaam. The Gemara explores the tension between divine justice and mercy, illustrating how even great scholars can be led astray by arrogance or improper influence. The section also includes vivid narratives about the power of repentance, the consequences of sin, and the ultimate redemption of Israel.For more info or to visit the main shiur page please visit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://webyeshiva.org/course/daf-yomi-one-week-at-a-time-sanhedrin/

Sanhedrin 106 : Marc Chipkin: 2025-04-02 Bilaam's evil advice that caused the Jewish people to sin grievously. Wicked people don't live out half their days. Doeg's tremendous wisdom was only lip service and didn't penetrate his heart.

Sanhedrin 105 : Marc Chipkin: 2025-04-01 The evil personality of Bilaam. Love and hatred override the natural order.

Unlock the secrets of divine emotions and human resilience as we explore intriguing Talmudic tales and historical insights. On this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, discover the fleeting nature of God's anger as illustrated in Tractate Brachot 7a, and how even the wicked prophet Bilaam could not harness it against the Jewish people. Through captivating narratives, we'll reveal the significance of a rooster's behavior in identifying this moment and share the compelling story of a sage's encounter with a heretic, highlighting the historical implications of the Birchash Haminim prayer.Journey with us through the ages as we uncover the profound importance of the Shema prayer during the Babylonian exile, and marvel at the innovative ways Jewish communities maintained traditions under duress. Through discussions about the structure of Jewish prayer and insights from Talmudic perspectives, you'll gain a richer understanding of how prayers adapted to preserve faith amidst adversity. Our conversation shines a light on the blessings associated with witnessing powerful leaders and Torah scholars, extending the dialogue to embrace the interplay between historical events and theological beliefs.Finally, embrace the power of personal choice and responsibility, as we share compelling stories that challenge the constraints of lineage and ancestry. From a rabbi with a Nazi officer grandfather to Larry Bird's rise from adversity, these narratives inspire a belief in the potential to shape one's own future. Concluding with reflections on Moshe's rewards at the burning bush, we offer reassurance through the lens of Talmudic teachings, encouraging listeners to trust in the divine tapestry of life's events. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of anger, tradition, and the enduring human spirit._____________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 March 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 19, 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!_____________#Talmud, #Berachos, #Talmudic, #ShemaPrayer, #Lineage, #BurningBush, #Tefillin, #Trust, #Future ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock the secrets of divine emotions and human resilience as we explore intriguing Talmudic tales and historical insights. On this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, discover the fleeting nature of God's anger as illustrated in Tractate Brachot 7a, and how even the wicked prophet Bilaam could not harness it against the Jewish people. Through captivating narratives, we'll reveal the significance of a rooster's behavior in identifying this moment and share the compelling story of a sage's encounter with a heretic, highlighting the historical implications of the Birchash Haminim prayer.Journey with us through the ages as we uncover the profound importance of the Shema prayer during the Babylonian exile, and marvel at the innovative ways Jewish communities maintained traditions under duress. Through discussions about the structure of Jewish prayer and insights from Talmudic perspectives, you'll gain a richer understanding of how prayers adapted to preserve faith amidst adversity. Our conversation shines a light on the blessings associated with witnessing powerful leaders and Torah scholars, extending the dialogue to embrace the interplay between historical events and theological beliefs.Finally, embrace the power of personal choice and responsibility, as we share compelling stories that challenge the constraints of lineage and ancestry. From a rabbi with a Nazi officer grandfather to Larry Bird's rise from adversity, these narratives inspire a belief in the potential to shape one's own future. Concluding with reflections on Moshe's rewards at the burning bush, we offer reassurance through the lens of Talmudic teachings, encouraging listeners to trust in the divine tapestry of life's events. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of anger, tradition, and the enduring human spirit._____________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 March 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 19, 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!_____________#Talmud, #Berachos, #Talmudic, #ShemaPrayer, #Lineage, #BurningBush, #Tefillin, #Trust, #Future ★ Support this podcast ★

Learning in Likutei Moharan 36 6 we strengthen how important it is to have the complete vessel to hold the light. Not to allow the evil advice or curse of Bilaam to break that connection and Keli... We Unify the Baal HaTanya Yahrzeit with Chabad mochin etc...zya Cover pic

התוכן [המשך] אבל על יתרו שאמר שיש לבטל את הגזירה של "כל הבן הילוד היאורה תשליכוהו" ישנה "קושיא גדולה": הרי ראה שמתוך ג' היועצים הצביע בלעם בעדה ואיוב שתק, והוא במיעוט, וכיון ש"בין כך" לא הי' מצליח לבטלה, מדוע הצביע נגדה ועי"ז הצטרך לברוח ובכך "להפקיר" את בנ"י במצרים – הרי "עדיף" שהוא יצביע בעדה (ועכ"פ לשתוק) ובכך יוכל להמשיך להיות "יועצו של פרעה" ולדאוג לפחות לחינוך כשר וכשרות של הבנות?! אלא יתרו, שהי' גוי ישר, אמר את האמת אף שידע שהוא במיעוט ויצטרך לברוח! וההוראה: כאשר באים לא' מ"וועדת השכונה" ואומרים לו "וותר" על חלק מהתורה ובכך לישאר שם כ"יועצו של פרעה", יש לזה ג' אופנים: א' מפחד "להתחיל עם פרעה" ולבסוף נותן עצה שמהרסת את מצרים! הב' לא רוצה "להתחיל" עם אף א' ויושב ושותק. ואז בא היצה"ר לג' וטוען שמכיון שבין כך אינו יכול להציל את הבנים, עדיף "להתפשר" עליהם, ובכך להשאר "בפנים" ולהציל לכה"פ את הבנות. אומרת תורה: ה"יועץ" אחראי לומר האמת עפ"י תורה, ולא ליכנס ל"חשבונות" שהם נגד התורה. ולדעת ש"רווח והצלה יעמוד ליהודים", ורק שלו יש הזכות שזה יכול לעבור דרכו!משיחת מוצאי פורים ה'תשל"א ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=13-01-2025 Synopsis [Continued.] Regarding Yisro, who spoke against the decree that “Every boy that is born you shall cast into the river,” a “big question” arises: among the three advisors, Bilaam voted in favor of the decree, and Iyov was silent, leaving Yisro in the minority – meaning that he wouldn't be able to annul the decree in any case. If so, why did he vote against the decree, forcing himself to flee, and effectively abandoning the Jewish people in Egypt? Wouldn't it have been better for him to vote in favor of the decree (or at least to remain silent), so that at least he could remain “Pharaoh's advisor” and be able to ensure that the girls could receive a kosher education and live Jewish lives? The answer is that Yisro, who was a non-Jew but an upright person, spoke the truth, even though he knew it wouldn't change the decree and that he would have to flee. The lesson is that when someone is a member of a community council and the like, and it is suggested that he should compromise on one part of the Torah so that he can at least remain in his position as “Pharaoh's advisor,” there are three possible responses: (1) to give Pharaoh advice that ultimately ruins Egypt, out of fear of starting up with Pharaoh; (2) to remain silent, out of fear of starting up with anyone; (3) to compromise, in the belief that since he can't save the boys anyway, at least he should retain his position so that he can save the girls. The Torah says that an advisor is obligated to speak the truth of the Torah, without getting entangled in calculations that are contrary to the Torah. He must know that “relief and salvation will arise for the Jews,” and he simply has the privilege that it might come through him.Excerpt from sichah of Motzaei Purim 5731 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=13-01-2025 לזכות רחל ברכה בת שושנה שתחי' ליום ההולדת שלה י"ג טבת - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות

התוכן ההוראה ממ"ש במדרש עה"פ [בפ' בלק] "ויקם בלעם בבוקר ויחבוש את אתונו" ש"כבר קדמוך זריזותי' דאברהם שנאמר [בפ' וירא] וישכם אברהם בבוקר ויחבוש את חמורו": מצד החושך כפול ומכופל של הגלות אפ"ל "הצדקה" להחסרון לפעמים בעניני תומ"צ וכו', כי ה"מלמד זכות" על בנ"י טוען, היות ש"כל ישראל בני מלכים הם", הנה כשלוקחים "בן מלך" ומשליכים אותו בין פחותים אין פלא ש"נטרפה דעתו" ובמילא ה"ה פטור מן המצות! אבל אז נעמד כנגדו "צד השמאל" וטוען, אם כך, איך יש לו דעת כשמגיע לעניני מסחר וכיו"ב... – למה אין לו את הזריזות ד"וישכם אברהם בבוקר" אבל את הזריזות ד"ויקם בלעם בבוקר" יש לו?!..., וע"ז עונים לו שבפועל "כבר קדמוך אברהם", והוא מוריש זריזות זו לכל בניו אחריו, וזריזות זו, אף אם היא בהעלם, מבטלת את (הענינים שיכולים לצאת מ)הזריזות דבלעם!ג' חלקים משיחת י"ב תמוז ה'תשח"י ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=14-11-2024 Synopsis On the verse (in Parashas Balak), “Bilaam got up early in the morning and saddled his she-donkey,” the Midrash says, “You have already been preceded by the alacrity of Avraham, as it says, ‘Avraham got up early in the morning and saddled his donkey.'” In the double and redoubled darkness of the exile, one can justify the fact that he is sometimes deficient in Torah and mitzvos on the basis that “All the Jewish people are sons of kings,” and when you put the prince among lowly people, it is no wonder that he “loses his mind,” in which case he is exempt from mitzvos. But then the opposing side argues that if so, how does he have a head when it comes to doing business etc.…why does he not have the alacrity of “Avraham getting up early in the morning,” but he does have the alacrity of “Bilaam getting up early in the morning?! The response to this argument is that “You have already been preceded by Avraham,” and Avraham bequeaths his alacrity to all his descendants after him. Although it may be concealed, this alacrity nullifies (any potential consequence of) the alacrity of Bilaam.3 excerpts from sichah of 12 Tammuz 5718 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=14-11-2024

Show Notes: Nechama's background and getting into the podcast Main Ideas and Models the Rebbe taught in these last years Tools the Rebbe taught us - Learning from Shabbos Getting in the Flow The donkey of Bilaam like our bodies - we beat it up. Feeling this so much being in yeshiva. If your body is saying No, Hashem is saying No What is it you're seeing body that I don't see? What is it you're telling me? Listen to Nechama Shusterman of A Path Forward podcast about Rebbe's sichos 1991/92 https://www.listennotes.com/da/podcasts/a-path-forward-nechama-schusterman-hPsrDdqibcj/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/solomon-ezra-berezin/support

Jim Long and Rabbi Chaim Richman reflect on the paradoxical character of the heathen prophet Bilaam, who despite being a great philosopher and ostensibly very 'religious,' was actually evil incarnate. For Bilaam, the greatest religious experience was anger and negativity. NOTE: This podcast is being published late and out of sequence due to Rabbi Richman's recent family circumstances. Rabbi Richman's daughter passed away just a few hours after this podcast was recorded and the family began their mourning period, and thus it was not aired on time. Next week with Hashem's help we expect to return to our regular scheduling of broadcasts.

The Torah parsha this week, "Pinchas," (Numbers 25:10-30:1) might be thought of as "part two" of the story that began last week with Balak and Bilaam, and ended with at least a bit of a 'cliffhanger' in the story of the deaths and plague associated with how Bilaam evidently managed to get the people of Israel to curse themselves, when he was not able to. And Pinchas, son of Eleazer the Kohen, and thus grandson of Aaron himself, did something dramatic, even shocking, to stop that plague. And perhaps the fact that he was rewarded by YHVH with the "Covenant of Peace [Shalom]" might even raise some eyebrows, especially today. What follows is then another "head count," and ultimately a reminder of the "Appointed Times of YHVH, as described by the Erev Shabbat reading: https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SSM-7-26-24-Pinchas-teaching-podcast-x.mp3 Last week, in the first installment of the story, Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa fellowship touched on the end of the story as well, and of Bilaam, and how he got himself killed. Deservedly. But the story this week is Pinchas, and how he merited the Covenant of Shalom (Peace) from YHVH Himself, and for being "zealous" (qanah, in Hebrew) for Him. There is, of course, peril in thinking we can cavalierly "do likewise." But these are perilous times anyway. So it's a mistake to fail when we should act, too. "Pinchas: 'Was Pinchas Doing God's Work?' " https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WT-CooH-7-26-24-Pinchas-Was-Pinchas-Doing-Gods-Work-podcast-xxx.mp3 The combined two-part teaching is here:

Bilam, Pinchas, and Hamas

Most people probably remember this story based on the name of the character who talked to YHVH more than the King for whom the parsha ["Balak" (Numbers 22:2-25:9)] is named. More memorable, still, is "Balaam's Talking Ass" - who isn't actually named in story at all - but has registered as one of the most colorful, even humorous, vignettes in Scripture. And probably even influenced the language over time. First, the Erev Shabbat reading of the story itself, and the 'cliff-hanger': https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SSM-7-19-24-Balak-teaching-podcast-xxx.mp3 Most of the studies of this portion tend to focus either on the blessing(s) given by the most prominent, but arguably pagan, 'seer' of his day over the mixed multitude of Israel, or on the actions at the end of this part of the story by Pinchas (aka Phineas in most English Bibles) for which he was given the "Covenant of Peace," by YHVH. But Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa fellowship suggests that this year, in particular, it's what Bilaam did to get himself killed that merits a deeper look. Because it should hit very, VERY close to home today. The Sabbath Day midrash: "Balak: 'It all depends on what the meaning of the word 'curse' is. And by whom." https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/WT-CooH-7-20-24-Balak-Balak-Bilaam-the-ancient-Bill-Klinton-podcast-xxxx.mp3 The combined two-part teaching is here:

In the end-times, God is raising up an army of true prophets. In reaction, a spirit of false prophecy is also rising up at the same time. Bilaam is the prototype of the false prophet, and his spiritual failings are warnings to the body of Messiah in these times.

In this week's parasha , Balak tried every which way to get Bilaam to curse the Jewish people. But as Bilaam repeatedly told him, “Whatever Hashem wants is going to happen and nobody could do otherwise.” People make all different kinds of efforts to accomplish many different things. We must always keep in mind that only what Hashem wants is going to happen. Fortunately for us, what Hashem wants is always the best for us. So we can always feel calm knowing that we're in His hands. We tell ourselves, again and again, that Hashem is always in charge and He's always choosing best, but somehow, when things don't go the way that we want, we still get upset and we still get nervous. If we really believed what we say, there would never be a reason to get frazzled no matter what's happening. There are people who are able to put into practice the emunah that they learn. One individual with real emunah can change an entire situation from a potential disaster to one of joy and spiritual elevation. A friend of mine, who practices emunah daily, told me he recently received a phone call at 7:30 in the morning from the hotel which was supposed to host the marriage of his son that night. The manager explained that a hot water tank had burst, and they had to evacuate the hotel. There was no way they would be able to accommodate the wedding there that night. The man immediately put into perspective that Hashem runs the world, and this was orchestrated by Him. He replied very calmly saying that it's okay and he understood. The manager was floored. He couldn't believe this man was so calm. The man told him, he knows Hashem is in charge and his child will get married in the best place for him and his kallah . This took so much stress off the manager and he told the man, “Don't worry, we're going to find you the best hall as quickly as we can.” In the meantime, this man calmly called his mechutan to tell him the news. He spoke softly, with a calmness in his voice, telling the mechutan everything was going to be perfect just as Hashem wants it. The mechutan responded in kind. He was also calm about it. An hour later, the hotel manager called back saying he found a kosher hotel in another city that would be perfect for them. The man happily accepted, and then they had to tell the ladies in the family the news. They spoke softly with complete emunah and told the ladies, as well as the bride and the groom, that it was going to be the best wedding ever, the way Hashem wants it to be. They were a little shocked at the news but they all accepted it with emunah. They sprang into action, calling everyone telling them of the change in venue. The day then went by like a chatan and kallah are supposed to spend it. Everyone was happy and excited. This man's emunah was contagious and everybody felt it and everyone was inspired by it. Baruch Hashem, they had the most beautiful wedding that night. It was a much nicer hall, and there was so much siyata d'Shamaya . When my friend called to tell me what happened, he said he was so happy that he actually practiced the emunah that he had been learning every day for the past ten years. There wasn't a moment that he got nervous. He felt the entire time that he was in Hashem's hands and it showed. Look how the emunah of one person can change an entire situation. We know Hashem is in control and we know He does everything for our best. If we can put our knowledge into practice, we will see amazing things happening. Shabbat Shalom.

This episode discusses the conversation between Bilaam and the Donkey and why did it have to be created from the days of Creation?

Why did Hashem go to such great lengths to stand in Bilaam's way?

Yishai Fleisher is at JFK and thinking about US Israel relations. First, is JD Vance good for the Jewish State? Then, what does Jonathan Pollard think of US sanctions in Israeli citizens. And finally, Ben Bresky on Mark Twain's visit to the Holy Land. Also: Table Torah on why Bilaam hit the donkey.

In every generation there are malevolent forces seeking to destroy the Jewish people. They have never been successful, nor will they ever be. The Almighty always protects our people and ensures our continuity. Most of the time we are completely unaware of the mortal dangers that the Almighty thwarted on our behalf. The canonical example of this phenomenon is the story of our Parsha , when the greatest sorcerer of all time was hired to curse the Jewish Nation. In this special edition of the Parsha podcast, we share three deep ideas on the very unusual story of Bilaam's unsuccessful attempts to curse the Jewish Nation.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

SEASON 2024 EPISODE 28: Yishai is in JFK and thinking about US Israel relations. First, is JD Vance good for the Jewish State? Then, what does Jonathan Pollard think of US sanctions in Israeli citizens. And finally, Ben Bresky on Mark Twain's visit to the Holy Land. Also: Table Torah on why Bilaam hit the donkey.SPONSOR LINKS:The Israel Bible https://theisraelbible.com/Prohibition Pickle https://www.facebook.com/Prohibitionpickle/Hebron Fund https://hebronfund.org/The Jewish Press https://www.jewishpress.com/JNS https://www.jns.org/Kosher Cycle Tours http://www.KosherCycleTours.comPODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://yishaifleisher.com/podcast/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3mIsdfUSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oP2Reo4JYnfIJdDUrQS2cRSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1271258.rssYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YishaiFleisherTVSUPPORT & CONNECT:Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcastSupport on Givecloud: https://kumah.givecloud.co/Twitter: https://twitter.com/YishaiFleisherInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yishaifleisherLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yishaifleisher/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YishaiFleisherSupport the Show.

"Let my death be the death of the righteous! Let my end be like his!"What is it that Bilaam asks for? He seeks the profound, things that we all seek. Take three minutes to listen to the Parsha Pick-Me-Up to learn more.

Rashi teaches that the subtleties of Bilaam's statements to Balak's servants (Bamidbar 22:19) indicated the ultimate outcome of his mission. But there are two different parts to this. This episodes analyzes and differentiates them.

Balak was inspired by the Tznius of the tents of Yisrael, they caused him to say Ma Tovu. How could someone as brazenly immoral as Bilaam be impressed by Tznius? Have a good Shabbos

Thank you for listening, please go to StreamcastDetroit.com/donate and pledge your support for Let's Talk TorahPart 2 Talking donkeys, curses turning into blessings, let's learn about Bilaam ?Join Rabbi Tzvi as discusses the lessons from talking donkeys, and Bilaam who thought he could outsmart G-d Thank you for listening, please go to StreamcastDetroit.com/donate and pledge your support for Let's Talk Torah

Thank you for listening, please go to StreamcastDetroit.com/donate and pledge your support for Let's Talk TorahTalking donkeys, curses turning into blessings, let's learn about Bilaam ?Join Rabbi Tzvi as discusses the lessons from talking donkeys, and Bilaam who thought he could outsmart G-d Thank you for listening, please go to StreamcastDetroit.com/donate and pledge your support for Let's Talk Torah

 "The optimist see the donut, the pessimist sees the hole" (Oscar Wilde) Two people receive the same gift- for one it is a blessing, for the other a curse.   

BALAK: I SINNED BECAUSE I DIDN'T KNOW - STUMP THE RABBI (209) https://youtu.be/hjQyhY5vSKs In Parashat Balak we see HaShem saving Am Yisrael from the curse of Bilaam only to see them punished for their own sins thereafter. Why was Bilaam not punished right away after he sinned, while Am Yisrael was punished immediately? What is the meaning of Bilaam's statement "I sinned because I didn't know" and can any of us use the same excuse today? Lastly, an extraordinary story from the Chafetz Chaim about how the Tzadikim use the Torah and Kabbalah to help Am Yisrael after they have sinned and the punishment arrived. After that we'll provide the answer to last week's halachic trivia question and provide another for everyone to think, learn, win, Enjoy, and Be Holy. Don't forget to Share.

Why did Hashem grant prophetic powers to a wicked person? Rashi explains it was to prevent other nations from excusing their misconduct. Yet, they could still argue, "With a prophet like Moshe Rabbeinu, we would have been better." What's the key to true greatness? Explore Bilaam's story and Parshas Balak's depths. This episode contrasts mere knowledge with transformative Torah wisdom, examining the divergent paths of Moshe Rabbeinu and Bilaam.

Ever wonder why some people consistently fail to meet their goals while others seem to hit the mark every time? Today's episode unpacks the powerful wisdom behind the saying, "It is the Indian, not the arrow," and reveals how excuses only serve those who make them, leaving everyone else unimpressed. Drawing from my father's southern wisdom and the story of Bilaam from Parshas Balak, we explore the fascinating dynamics of accountability and execution and how one's success is a blend of skill, effort, and divine blessing.Together, we'll dissect Bilam's futile attempts to curse the Jews, showcasing his tendency to shift blame rather than accept the simple truth that some things are beyond human control. Through his story, you'll learn the critical importance of taking responsibility and why it's essential to acknowledge and embrace your role in achieving your goals. This episode will challenge you to scrutinize your own actions, avoid the pitfalls of excuse-making, and strive for genuine improvement in all your endeavors. Tune in and transform your approach to success!Luxury Class Tours Let us take care of your business trips or vacations! Flights, Hotels, Car rentals. Up MoneyEarn 100,000 bonus points with the Ink Business Preferred® card!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.Join The Motivation Congregation WhatsApp community for daily motivational Torah content! ---------------- SUBSCRIBE to The Weekly Parsha for an insightful weekly talk on the week's Parsha. Listen on Spotify or 24six! Access all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our website, themotivationcongregation.org ----------------Questions or Comments? Please email me @ michaelbrooke97@gmail.com

This morning we follow up on our discussion from Monday, July 15, on the miracle of God opening the mouth of Bilaam's donkey. Today we focus on what the donkey said. We analyze an allegorical message of our rabbis, based on the writing of Bailey Newman and the poetry of Emily Dickenson. Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship. Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/ Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO Please contact Rabbi Whitman (rabbi@adath.ca) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.

Our nation has no shortage of enemies. This is not new. Even in antiquity, our nation was always a target. Laban, Jacob's father-in-law, try to smothered the Jewish Nation in its infancy. I'm this week's Parsha, to fearsome, shadowy figures try to do the same. Balak, king of Moab, commissions Bilaam, master sorcerer and prophet, […]

Our nation has no shortage of enemies. This is not new. Even in antiquity, our nation was always a target. Laban, Jacob's father-in-law, try to smothered the Jewish Nation in its infancy. I'm this week's Parsha, to fearsome, shadowy figures try to do the same. Balak, king of Moab, commissions Bilaam, master sorcerer and prophet, to curse and decimate the nation. Although their diabolical scheme fails, the lessons that we learn from this parsha are transformative.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

This podcast has been graciously sponsored by JewishPodcasts.fm. There is much overhead to maintain this service so please help us continue our goal of helping Jewish lecturers become podcasters and support us with a donation: https://thechesedfund.com/jewishpodcasts/donate

After the Jewish nation trounced the mighty kingdoms of Sichon and Og in last week's parsha, the comparatively smaller and weaker kingdom of Moab resorted to unconventional warfare to attack the nation by hiring the prophet of the nations, a wily and devious character named Bilaam, to curse the Jews. It did not work out […]

After the Jewish nation trounced the mighty kingdoms of Sichon and Og in last week's parsha, the comparatively smaller and weaker kingdom of Moab resorted to unconventional warfare to attack the nation by hiring the prophet of the nations, a wily and devious character named Bilaam, to curse the Jews. It did not work out as planned.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

What was it really that inspired Bilaam to bless the yidden instead of curse us? What were these details that Bilaam noticed about us? How can we bring this focus of careful details in our personal lives into focus today - bringing us Hashem's brachos and even that of the whole world. (Likkutei Sichos, Chelek yud gimmul, page 78)

In some ways this class is a follow up to our class on Adar Bet where we compare current events to Amalek attacking on the way to har Sinai, Bilaam and Balak attacking on the way into Eretx Yisrael to Haman attacking before the building of Bayit Sheni to today. We begin this week The Book of Vayikra (Leviticus), also known as Torat Kohanim — the Laws of the Priests — deals largely with the korbanot (offerings) brought in the Mishkan (Tent of Meeting). Since this Sefer which we will spend the next three months with deals so much with kohanim, it is worth taking some time to understand who they are and what they mean to the Jewish people. They are more than just priests. Rabbi Pinchas Winston suggests A good starting point is the word kohen itself, spelled, in Hebrew, Chof-Heh-Nun. Breaking the three letters into two groups, the first two spell the word koh—s0—the opening of many of the prophets as in, “So says God . . .” This is a reason for this. We discussed many times that to me koh is a code word for the light of creation. The gematria of koh is 25, one of the most significant numbers in Judaism. To begin with, it is the gematria of the word yehi, used in the verse with which God made light: And God said, “Let there be light!” and yehi ohr—there was light. (Bereishis 1:3) light being the 25th word. This, of course, was not the light of the sun, the moon, and the stars, which did not start working until Day Four of Creation. Besides, as Rashi explains in the next verse, the light that God made on Day One was quickly hidden by God shortly after, for the righteous in the future time. Why? Because God knew that evil people would come along in history and abuse this light, so therefore, He hid it from them before they could even know about it. Evil people and righteous people alike make use of the light of the sun, the moon, and the stars. Furthermore, the Talmud writes, with this light, appropriately called the Ohr HaGanuz—the Hidden Light—Adam HaRishon could see from one end of the world until the other end. Hence, the Shema has 25 letters, because it is the creed of the Jewish people, the nation charged with being a light unto nations. Thus, when the prophets began their words of criticism to awaken the Jewish people to their Divine mission, it was only fitting that they begin with the word koh, and the gematria of 25, as if to say, “Hey! Remember the mandate of 25 and your commitment to live up to it?” What exactly does that mean, and what does it have to do with the kohanim, especially if the light is hidden from mankind until a future time, assumedly Yemos HaMoshiach? The Leshem Shlomo Elyashiv (Eliashov) (January 5, 1841 [12 Tevet 5602] - March 13, 1926 [27 Adar, 5676]) (Hebrew: שלמה בן חיים חייקל אלישיב), also known as the Leshem or Ba'al HaLeshem, was a famous kabbalist, who was born in Šiauliai, Lithuania, and later moved to the Land of Israel. R' Eliashiv taught Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook Kabbalah when Rabbi Kook was the young rabbi of the town of Zoimel. Rabbi Kook was granted a month-long leave of absence to study with the famous kabbalist in Shavel.[1] In 1922, when Rabbi Kook was serving as chief rabbi of Jerusalem, Rabbi Elyashiv asked him for assistance in settling in Eretz Yisrael. Due to Rav Kook's intervention, the great kabbalist, his son-in-law, daughter, and his eleven-year-old grandson (who would grow up to be the great scholar Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv), were allowed to emigrate to the Land of Israel.[2] 'One particularly poignant story tells of a visit the revered Leshem paid to the chief rabbi. It was a bitterly cold winter evening and Rav Kook noted that the Leshem had no coat. Rav Kook immediately took his own fur-lined coat from his closet and gave it to the elderly man as a gift. This coat remained in the Elyashiv family as an heirloom and was periodically worn by Rabbi Yosef Shalom Elyashiv on wintry days.'[2] explains: He made a separation in the illumination of the light, that it should not flow or give off light except for the righteous, whose actions draw it down and make it shine. However, the actions of the evil block it, leaving them in darkness, and this itself was the hiding of the Light. (Sefer HaKlallim, Klal 18, Anaf 8, Os 4) Rabbi Winston suggested that This short insight of the LeShem is perhaps one of the most important in all of Torah, at least in terms of helping the Jewish people understand their mission in life. It says, simply, that when God set aside the Hidden Light for righteous people in the future time, it meant from that time onward. It became hidden only to evil people, whose actions cause the light to repel them. This is very important, because this light is as crucial for seeing the truth about life as eyes are for seeing the world around us. Without this Ohr HaGanuz, a person remains blind to the reality of God and truth, and can willingly and happily stumble down the wrong path in life. He may have a blast, but in the end, the blast will have him. We read: kol yisrael yesh lahem All of the Jewish people have a portion in the World-to-Come, as it says, “All of Your people are righteous and will forever inherit the land; the branch of My planting, the work of My hands.” (Yeshayahu 60:21) This is less a compliment than it is a reminder of what the Jewish people are supposed to be. For, to not be righteous means that one is denied access to the Ohr HaGanuz, to a clear vision of the purpose of life, and how best to achieve it. In fact, since one's access to the Ohr HaGanuz is primarily through the words of Torah, one's level of righteousness determines one's access to the levels of Torah. Anyone can pick up and read a Chumash, and today, even the Talmud. But, only the righteous can draw down through Torah the Ohr HaGanuz, and benefit from it. This is why non-righteous people, in spite of the fact that they read such sources of Torah knowledge from cover-to-cover, are never impacted by its words. Their physical eyes may be wide open, but their mind's eye, being blind to higher levels of reality, sees only darkness, even though they are convinced they are seeing what the righteous see, and that it is the latter who are deluded. However, even for Jews who wish to be righteous, it is not an easy feat, especially in so distracting a world. To solve this problem, we have kohanim. Kohanim, at least in Temple times, were spared the need to be involved in the outside, in the world of spiritual distraction. They were supported by the community, and allowed to remain in a holy environment most of the time. (The Kohen Gadol himself never left the Bais HaMikdosh while he functioned in this role.) This is why the kohanim had to live up to a higher standard than the rest of the Jewish people. As the koh indicates at the beginning of the word kohen, they didn't have the luxury of being a little less righteous. It was their role to remain in the position of conduits for the Divine light for the rest of the people, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, so that the Jewish people could strive to be such conduits for the rest of the world. Eretz Yisroel functions in a similar way, as the following reveals: Rabbi Moshe Cordovero Rabbi Moshe Cordovero (1522-1570) 'The Ramak' One of the greatest of all Kabbalists was Rabbi Moshe Cordovero. He was born in 1522 in Safed, the city that was soon to become famed as a center of Kabbalah. At a young age, he already gained a reputation as an extroardinary genius. Besides his knowledge in Kabbalah, he was a Talmudic scholar and philosopher of the highest rank, and was widely respected in these fields. He was even one of the four to receive the special semichah-ordination from Rabbi Yaakov Beirav in 1538, along with Rabbis Yosef Caro (Cordovero's teacher in Jewish Law), Moshe of Trani and Yosef Sagis, all of whom were much older and better known than the young prodigy. wrote: “Anyone who lives in Eretz Yisroel is considered a righteous person even if it doesn't appear that way. For, if he wasn't, then the land would spit him out, as it says, ‘And the land shall spit out its inhabitants' (Vayikra 18:25). Therefore, regarding even those who act in evil ways, if the land does not reject them then God calls him “righteous.” This is what is meant by the verse, ‘This is the gate of God; the righteous shall enter through it' (Tehillim 118:20). The ‘gate of God' refers to Eretz Yisroel, as we see Ya'akov Avinu calling it ‘the gate of Heaven' (Bereishis 28:17). The first letters of tzadikim yavo'u vo—the righteous shall enter through it—are Tzaddi -Yud-Bais and can be arranged to spell tzvi—deer—implying that Eretz HaTzvi—the Land of the Deer—is the gateway to God, and that all those that enter it are called “righteous,” for once they enter they do not leave.” (Tuv HaAretz, The Advantage of Living in Eretz Yisroel . . .) In other words, Eretz Yisroel mystically maintains the spiritual status of Jews living on the land, as long as they fulfill the mitzvos dependent upon the land, like taking tithes and observing the Shmittah year. Hence, it takes less spiritual accomplishment to access the Hidden Light in Eretz Yisroel as it does in the rest of the world, which is why the Talmud says: Even the air of Eretz Yisroel makes a person wise. (Bava Basra 158b) Hence, one of the borders of Eretz Yisroel, the one the Jews were made to cross on their initial entry into the land, is the Yarden, or the Jordan River. In English the name may mean very little, by the Hebrew name can be broken into two parts: yarad Nun—the Nun descended. Which Nun? The Nun of the Nun Sha'arei Binah —the Fifty Gates of Understanding, with which God made Creation (Rosh Hashanah 21b). Kabbalah explains that it is the Nun Sha'arei Binah that the Ohr HaGanuz passes through on its way down into our world. It is the Fifty Gates of Understanding that filter the light, allowing it to result in every aspect of Creation as we know, and don't know it, above and below. It is also the light of Torah, for those who merit it, which is why the Midrash also says that there is no Torah like the Torah of Eretz Yisroel. For, even in times when the Temple does not exist, and the kohanim cannot function in the role as they once did, Eretz Yisroel does, making access to the Hidden Light that much easier. Hence, another names for the Jewish people is Mamleches Kohanim—a kingdom of Kohanim— since with the help of Eretz Yisroel, we can also function in the level of kohanim to some degree. Not only is the Nun Sha'arei Binah the source of the light of the Torah, it is also the source of our souls, which we access on more profound levels by learning Torah, and, of course, by living in Eretz Yisroel. Sometimes we forget this, and it takes our enemies to remind us of who we really are. This is why Haman can also be read: Heh-Mem, Nun, or “they are 50,” referring to the Jewish people that Haman arouses by his attempt at genocide. This is also why he planned to hang Mordechai on a gallows that was 50 amos high: Haman sensed that there was about to be an influx of the light of the Nun Sha'arei Binah, and wanted to thwart it. It is with the light of the Fifty Gates of Understanding that we use to fully rectify Creation. This is the death note for Amalek. Therefore, explains the Nesivos Shalom, Sholom Noach Berezovsky (Hebrew: שלום נח ברזובסקי; August 18, 1911 – August 8, 2000) was the rebbe (hereditary rabbinic leader) of the Slonim dynasty of hasidim from 1981 until his death. His teachings were published as a series of books entitled Nesivos Sholom Amalek attacked the Jewish people during their 50 day ascension to Mt. Sinai and the acceptance of Torah. He didn't stop it from happening, but he was able to lessen its impact, and hold of the Final Redemption. The next time Amalek tries to block such an opportunity for complete redemption, is just as the Jewish people are entering the land. This time Amalek attacks through Balak and Bilaam, who, the Zohar explains, were rooted in Amalek. The name Amalek is even built into their names. Once again, he didn't stop the event, but he lessened it enough to hold off the Final Redemption for a while longer, once they caused Gad, Reuven, and Menashe to choose to live in the Diaspora instead of Eretz HaKodesh. The next potential for a complete redemption was in Mordechai's and Esther's time, which, as the Talmud says, was really the completion of what began at Har Sinai over a millennium before. Once again, Amalek showed up, not preventing redemption, but lessening its impact and its ability to eradicate evil from Creation. After that, there were battles with Amalek, but mostly started by the Jewish people, especially in Shaul HaMelech's time. The next war an Amaleki seems to go out of his way to fight against the Jewish people was in World War II, which, as Hitler, y”s, himself admitted, was really a war against the Jews. And, in pure Amaleki style, he sacrificed the war effort, put himself at risk, just to harm and murder more Jews. He may not have physically descended from Amalek, but he certainly did spiritually. His arrival on the scene would imply that, at that time, there was a potential for the complete tikun, and he came to stop it. The Holocaust, according to Torah hashkofah, was Amalek's attempt to prevent the Final Redemption, so that he, and other evil people like him, can remain in history a little longer. However, as always, Amalek is never able to completely prevent the aspect of redemption that was destined for that time, but he was able to limit its impact, and push off the full tikun a little longer. This is why the formation of the State of Israel has been so confusing for some, and misread by so many, some who see too much in it, and many who see too little in it. Nevertheless, aside from many other reasons, which are mentioned in my new book, Drowning In Pshat: A Deeper Look At The Final Redemption, the very fact that Amalek showed up when he did makes it clear that what happened in 1948 was certainly part of the Final Redemption. Just how much remains to be seen, but an important part of it, it is hard to say otherwise. Why should anyone be surprised if they understand the lands connection to the Nun Sha'arei Binah? Like the Jewish people themselves, it is a lens through which the light of Torah is able to shine on the rest of the world: From Tzion will come Torah. (Yeshayahu 2:3) From Tzion, the light of the Nun Sha'arei Binah fill go forth to the rest of the world, just as it goes from the kohanim to the Jewish people. Hence, the last letter of the word kohen is, in fact, a Nun, to indicate that which they are supposed to radiate to the rest of the nation, by using the light of 25. They were the microcosm; the Jewish nation, as a whole, is the macrocosm. Thus, the Kohen Gadol wore the letters of the 12 Tribes on his shoulders, 25 letters on one side, and 25 letters on the other side. How convenient it was that all the names of tribes, the fathers of the entire nation, should total 50. It was an ongoing reminder of the role of the kohanim.

Unlock the secrets of Talmudic wisdom and discover the fine line between divine anger and mercy. Join us as we navigate the curious tale of Bilaam, an enigmatic figure whose prophetic talents are overshadowed by his intentions to curse the Jewish people. Our journey through the podcast is both an exploration of ancient texts and a reflection on modern-day miracles, as we connect the dots between the Talmud's teachings and the mysterious ways we are protected from harm.Our discussion doesn't shy away from the complexities of understanding God's will and the pivotal role of divine timing in our lives. You'll hear a personal narrative that mirrors the protective forces at play during Bilaam's time, and how a seemingly trivial delay can be a life-saving intervention. The story will not only intrigue you but also offer a message of hope and the comforting assurance that beneath the surface of fear lies a profound trust in Hashem's safeguarding embrace.The episode culminates with an invitation to deepen your engagement with Judaism through our Thinking Talmudist class. Here, we emphasize the tradition's embrace of inquiry and the importance of sourcing every ruling and law in the oral and written Torah. Whether through scriptural references or rabbinical wisdom, you can witness the richness of a faith that is both grounded in ancient texts and alive with contemporary relevance. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of asking "What's your source?" and explore the depth of our heritage._____________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 episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast (Ep. 49) is dedicated in honor of Bruce & Rhona Caress!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 1, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 8, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/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! ★ Support this podcast ★

Unlock the secrets of Talmudic wisdom and discover the fine line between divine anger and mercy. Join us as we navigate the curious tale of Bilaam, an enigmatic figure whose prophetic talents are overshadowed by his intentions to curse the Jewish people. Our journey through the podcast is both an exploration of ancient texts and a reflection on modern-day miracles, as we connect the dots between the Talmud's teachings and the mysterious ways we are protected from harm.Our discussion doesn't shy away from the complexities of understanding God's will and the pivotal role of divine timing in our lives. You'll hear a personal narrative that mirrors the protective forces at play during Bilaam's time, and how a seemingly trivial delay can be a life-saving intervention. The story will not only intrigue you but also offer a message of hope and the comforting assurance that beneath the surface of fear lies a profound trust in Hashem's safeguarding embrace.The episode culminates with an invitation to deepen your engagement with Judaism through our Thinking Talmudist class. Here, we emphasize the tradition's embrace of inquiry and the importance of sourcing every ruling and law in the oral and written Torah. Whether through scriptural references or rabbinical wisdom, you can witness the richness of a faith that is both grounded in ancient texts and alive with contemporary relevance. Join us as we uncover the transformative power of asking "What's your source?" and explore the depth of our heritage._____________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 episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast (Ep. 49) is dedicated in honor of Bruce & Rhona Caress!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 1, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 8, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/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! ★ Support this podcast ★

God says that he has an argument with the people! What is it? What's the connection with the Exodus, with Bilaam, and with Sacrifices?

Yosef Rosen is a historian of Kabbalah and Jewish magic, a creative Jewish educator, and an immersive ritual designer. Laura Duhan-Kaplan is an award-winning author, teacher, and spiritual leader serving as Rabbi Emerita of Or Shalom Synagogue in Vancouver and Professor Emerita of Philosophy at UNC Charlotte. The two thinkers join Dan Libenson and Lex Rofeberg for a conversation about their upcoming UnYeshiva classes (sign up here!), which both use Jewish history and tradition to grapple with today's climate crisis.Check out our upcoming full semester classes in the UnYeshiva by heading to www.judaismunbound.com/classes!Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. And if you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation. Support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!