Podcasts about Hashem

In this week's shiur, we explore one of the most electrifying themes in Torah: the power of yearning.From Yaakov Avinu's inability to be comforted over Yosef, to Rebbe Nachman's legendary teaching of “Never give up hope,” we uncover the spiritual DNA inside every Jew — the part of us that's still a na'ar, still searching, still asking, still alive.Yosef HaTzaddik is called a “na'ar” because he tapped into that inner childlike curiosity — the part of us that refuses to settle, that refuses to stop seeking Hashem. Deep down, Yaakov knew Yosef was alive, because deep down we all know: 

There are times when Hashem wants to bestow a blessing upon a person, but in order to do so, the person first needs to acquire extra merits. Therefore, Hashem sends him a test in the very area in which He wants to bless him. By overcoming that test, the person earns far more than anything he would gain by failing it and taking the immediate, fleeting benefit. A rabbi told me that one of his congregants recently received a paycheck that was two thousand dollars more than it was supposed to be. At first, he hoped it was a bonus or a raise, but the more he thought about it, the more he realized that if it were something extra, his boss would have told him beforehand. Then came an internal struggle: Should he mention it or quietly deposit it? After a sincere inner battle, he did the right thing and asked the woman who writes the checks about the extra amount. She told him she had made a mistake and had accidentally added the next person's pay to his check. She was so grateful that he came forward, sparing her from serious trouble. She issued a corrected check, and the man walked away having forfeited a potential extra $2,000. Just an hour later, he received a call from a wealthy man asking him to stop by his home on his way home from work. When he arrived, the man thanked him for helping his son and handed him an envelope. Inside was a check for $10,000—five times the amount he had just returned. He had helped that man's son long before, but Hashem placed it in the father's mind to contact him precisely at that moment, right after he passed his test with honesty. Rabbi Ayal Amrami from Israel told another remarkable story. A man, struggling terribly with parnassah, was supposed to receive 600,000 shekel from an inheritance after his father-in-law passed away. His brothers-in-law maneuvered him out of it, and he received nothing. Devastated and furious, he vowed never to speak to them again. Sometime later, he attended one of Rabbi Amrami's classes, where the topic was being mevater—forgiving others even when we are right—and how powerful that is in Shamayim. The man received tremendous chizuk. He decided to forgive his brothers-in-law completely and restore peace in the family. A few weeks later, he went to thank the rabbi for the chizuk and to share the incredible yeshuah that followed. He had just earned three times the inheritance he lost—1.8 million shekels. The rabbi, knowing he learned full-time, asked how he could have possibly made such a sum. The man explained that someone approached him asking to buy the rights above the roof of his apartment in Beit Shemesh. He had never even known he owned such rights. The buyer said he would make a generous, nonnegotiable offer. The man expected a few thousand shekels—until the offer came: 1.8 million shekels. Overcoming nisyanot brings endless reward in the next world, but very often Hashem gifts people with blessings even in this world—using their heroic efforts as the very channel through which those blessings flow.

There is an ancient custom to add to the morning Pesukeh De'zimra service the recitation of "Az Yashir," the jubilant song of praise which Beneh Yisrael sung after the miracle of the splitting of the sea. We begin the recitation two verses earlier, with "Va'yosha Hashem…" (Shemot 14:30). This practice appears already in the Siddur of Ram Amram Gaon (Babylonia, 9 th century), though the Rambam does not include this recitation in his text of the prayer service. Regardless, it has been accepted to recite "Az Yashir," and the Arizal and others revealed the great spiritual benefits of this practice. Some suggested that the daily recitation of "Az Yashir" is included in the song's introductory verse, which tells that Beneh Yisrael sang this song "Le'mor" – literally, "to say." This alludes to the fact that this song was written to be sung not only at the shores of Yam Suf, but also for all generations, each day, and even in the times of Mashiah, when we will continue to sing this song to praise Hashem for the miracles He has performed. So significant is the daily recitation of "Az Yashir" that the Midrash Shoher Tob teaches that one who sings this song with Kavana (concentration) is cleansed from his sins. This is inferred from the Torah's account of Moshe leading Beneh Yisrael away from the shores of the sea after they sung this song – "Va'yasa Moshe Et Yisrael Mi'Yam Suf" (Shemot 15:22), which the Midrash explains to mean that the people were brought away from their sins at the sea. Before the miracle, when Beneh Yisrael found themselves trapped by the Egyptian army, they complained bitterly to G-d. Their joyous singing of "Az Yashir" had the effect of atoning for their inappropriately angry protests. By extension, anyone who reenacts our ancestors' jubilant singing of "Az Yashir" is likewise absolved of his wrongdoing. The work Solet Belula instructs that one should sing "Az Yashir" with the Te'amim – the cantillation notes with which this section is chanted when it is read from the Torah in the synagogue. Indeed, the custom in our Syrian community is that the Hazan chants "Az Yashir" with the Te'amim. On the two occasions when the section of "Az Yashir" is included in the congregational Torah reading – namely, Shabbat Parashat Beshalah (Shabbat Shira) and on Shebi'i Shel Pesach – it is customary for the congregation to chant "Az Yashir" all together during Pesukeh De'zimra, with the Te'amim. Several sources teach that whenever a person finds himself in a challenging situation, where he faces a difficult problem, he should read "Az Yashir" with Kavana. This recitation can help "split the sea" for him, bringing him the salvation he needs just as G-d split the sea for our ancestors to rescue them from the pursuing Egyptians. One should recite "Az Yashir" with genuine feelings of joy. We evoke these feelings by taking a moment to reflect on the miracles that G-d performed for our ancestors and the miracles He performs for us even today, protecting us from harm, providing our needs, and helping us achieve what we set out to do. Some Poskim maintained that the joyous "Az Yashir" song should not be recited in a house of mourning. The widespread practice, however, is to recite it even in a house of mourning. Some have the custom to stand during the recitation of "Az Yashir," but our custom is to recite it while seated.

In this powerful Land of Israel Fellowship episode, hosts Ari Abramowitz and Jeremy Gimpel along with guest Tehila Gimpel, explore a historic spiritual shift unfolding in Israel and across the world. This week's Torah portion of Vayishlach, the story of Jacob becoming Israel, reveals a living truth for our generation: we are no longer Jacob surviving in exile… we are Israel, standing in courage, clarity, and unshakable identity. From Jacob wrestling the angel, to Shimon and Levi refusing to surrender their sister's dignity, to the upheavals of our time, including the war after October 7th, this episode uncovers the deeper message Hashem is calling us to hear: transformation, identity, and the moral courage to stand for truth. We dive into Torah, Jewish destiny, the dangers of excessive pragmatism, and the eternal battle between fear and faith. This is not just commentary—it's a call to awaken the inner Israel within each of us. Listen now to understand the spiritual shift happening in our generation and why Hashem is calling us back to our deepest mission.

As we know, shidduchim are from Hashem. Even what appear to be mistakes are all part of the Master Plan. Someone told me that their friend, who is six foot two, became engaged to a girl who is four feet eleven. When the question of her height came up, the initial response was, "almost five feet." Somehow, on the other side, this was heard as five foot three. And based on that, they said yes. Clearly, this was Hashem setting things up so that the meeting would take place and the proper match could come to be. It reminds us that even when details seem unclear or inaccurate, Hashem is orchestrating the outcome. It is important to remember that even when things don't work out, even when the process feels slow, confusing, or painful, it is also from Hashem—and it is for our benefit. A man told me that just before Shavuot, a boy was suggested for his daughter. However, she was scheduled to be out of town until after Shavuot. Then the boy went away. After that, she was leaving for Eretz Yisrael for the summer. The other side initially sounded willing to wait. But when the girl returned in September, they discovered that the boy had already begun dating someone else. A few weeks later, they found out that he was getting engaged to a family friend. The girl's mother was crushed. She felt sure that this boy was perfect for her daughter, and it didn't seem that there were any other options. The father asked their rav to speak to his wife and give her chizuk. The rav told her that in Shamayim, not only is each person's match decided, but there are also several suggestions that a person must hear along the way. Before meeting the right one, a person often has to pass by others who are not meant to be. This process itself brings a person closer to their true zivug. The woman felt comforted and they moved forward. Baruch Hashem, a few months later, another boy was suggested, and this time the shidduch moved quickly to an engagement. The mother later said, "Now that I see the boy she actually got engaged to compared to the previous one, it's so clear that this match is far more compatible for her." We don't know what's truly good for us. Only Hashem does. And therefore, the only logical response is to accept His decisions with trust and happiness. Rabbi Reuven Elbaz shared a powerful story about a young man who had been offered an outstanding shidduch. The girl had wonderful qualities and came from an aristocratic family. After three meetings, however, the girl ended it. The young man was deeply hurt, and because his middot were not refined, he decided to take revenge. He approached a friend he didn't like and suggested this girl to him. The friend took it seriously, looked into her, and reported back that he was interested. The young man then told him that he arranged a meeting for the next night at seven o'clock and gave him the girl's address—without ever asking the girl or her family. The next night, the friend knocked on the door asking for the girl, and the father had no idea what he was talking about. The young man was mortified. The father, realizing something wasn't right, asked who had sent him. When the boy mentioned the young man's name, the father understood immediately what had happened. Rather than sending him away, the father invited the boy to sit for a few minutes to ease his embarrassment. In the course of that short conversation, the father was extremely impressed with him. After looking into him properly, he decided that this young man was suitable for his daughter. Baruch Hashem, they eventually got married. There are no mistakes. Everything is biyad Hashem. And everything He does is for our very best.

Although technically Pesukeh De'zimra ends after the verses of "Baruch Hashem Le'olam Amen Ve'amen," at which point we should, in principle, proceed to Yishtabah – the concluding blessing of Pesukeh De'zimra – it is customary to add Va'yebarech David as well as Shirat Ha'yam. This is an ancient practice, instituted around one thousand years ago. The section of Va'yebarech David consists of verses from the Book of Dibreh Ha'yamim I (29:10-13) and a series of verses from the Book of Nehemya (9:5-11). The section of Shirat Ha'yam, of course, is the song sung by Beneh Yisrael after crossing the sea (Shemot, chapter 15), preceded by two introductory verses ("Va'yosha Hashem…"). The Sha'ar Ha'kavanot writes that one should stand while reciting the first 40 words of Va'yebarech David, meaning, through the words "Ata Hu Hashem Ha'Elokim." He adds that the first letters of these final five words – Alef, Heh, Yod and Heh – spell the Name of Hashem ("E-heyeh") associated with "Keter," the highest of the Sefirot (emanations). As standing during the recitation of these forty words is only customary, and not a strict requirement, one who finds it difficult to stand may certainly sit. While reciting the words "Ve'ata Moshel Ba'kol" in Va'yebarech David, one should give some money to charity. Specifically, one gives three coins – he should first give two coins together, and then a third coin by itself. This practice was taught by the Arizal, but there are indications that its origins date back even earlier. One indication is a testimony that the Rama (Rav Moshe Isserles, 1520-1572) followed this custom of giving charity during Va'yebarech David in his synagogue in Cracow, and the Rama did not have access to the Arizal's teachings. By giving charity during Pesukeh De'zimra, before praying the Amida, one fulfills the custom of Rabbi Elazar, mentioned by the Gemara (Baba Batra 10a), to give charity before praying. The commentaries explain that this should be done so that the charity acts as an advocate on the individual's behalf, helping to ensure the acceptance of his prayers. It has been noted that if Rabbi Elazar, a righteous sage, felt that he needed an advocate, then certainly we, who are on a much lower level, should avail ourselves of such an advocate by giving charity before praying. Some had the custom to give charity each morning twice – when they first entered the synagogue, and then a second time while reciting the words "Ve'ata Moshel Ba'kol." This custom is brought by the Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakob Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939), who tells the story of a person who consistently followed this practice, but one day failed to do so. That night, he dreamt that he was harshly chastised for deviating from this practice. Interestingly enough, Rav Ben Sion Mussafi brings a tradition among Iraqi Jews that whenever the Kaf Ha'haim tells a story about somebody without naming him, this story is actually about himself. We may thus conclude that the Kaf Ha'haim personally observed this custom to give charity when entering the synagogue and then a second time during the recitation of "Ve'ata Moshel Ba'kol." In any event, the consensus among the Poskim is that it suffices to give charity only once, during the recitation of "Ve'ata Moshel Ba'kol," because, as mentioned, the purpose is to give charity before one presents his requests in the Amida prayer. One should preferably give charity not only at Shaharit, but also before Minha and Arbit. The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) taught that the act of giving charity is associated with the divine Name of Havaya (which is spelled Yod, Heh, Vav and Heh). The small coin resembles Yod – the smallest letter in the alphabet – and the giver holds it in his hand, with his five fingers, alluding to the letter Heh, which in Gematria equals 5. When he extends his arm, he forms the letter Vav, which is long and straight, and the coin is then received in the poor individual's hand, which represents the second Heh in the Name. The Ben Ish Hai adds that if a poor person is not present, and one is setting aside the money for charity, then he should place the coin with his right hand into a pouch in his left hand. In his work Od Yosef Hai (Parashat Vayigash), the Ben Ish Hai writes that there were Sadikim who fulfilled this custom even on Shabbat. Before Shabbat, they would prepare two envelopes – one with two coins, and another with one coin, and place them in a designated location. Then, on Shabbat, while reciting "Ve'ata Moshel Ba'kol," they would think of those envelopes, allocating them for charity. They would then give these coins to the poor after Shabbat. Even one who did not designate these envelopes before Shabbat can fulfill this practice on Shabbat by pledging in his mind during the recitation of "Ve'ata Moshel Ba'kol" to donate three coins to Sedaka after Shabbat. The Kaf Ha'haim writes that if a person has a bill, and he cannot exchange it for coins, then he should hold it and have in mind to donate the value of two coins within this bill for charity, and then the value of one coin. After several days, when he has donated the full amount of the bill, he should give the bill to charity. If one wishes to give charity from the bill before Minha and Arbit, when speaking is permissible, he should make this pledge verbally.

The heart of the Pesukeh De'zimra section consists of the final five chapters of Tehillim, each of which begin and end with the word "Halleluy-ah." While all five of these chapters are significant, the third and fifth chapters (Psalm 148 & Psalm 150) – "Halleluy-ah Halelu Et Hashem" and "Halleluy-ah Halelu Kel Be'kodsho" – are the most important. Therefore, if a person arrives late, and is unable to recite all five chapters, he should try to recite at least these two. We present here a number of insights into these chapters in order for us to get a glimpse of the unlimited depth and countless layers of meaning underlying the words. In the first of these chapters, we proclaim, "Ahalela Hashem Be'hayai, Azamera L'Elokai Be'odi" – "I shall praise G-d in my lifetime; I shall sing to my G-d while I still exist." The word "Be'hayai" ("in my lifetime") has been understood to mean when we are still healthy and functioning. As long as we are physically capable of speaking and giving praise to the Almighty, we are obliged to do so. Rav Chaim Brim (Jerusalem, 1922-2002) noted the implication of this verse that one of the most important things in life, one of our most central obligations, is to give praise to Hashem. Among the purposes of our existence here in this world is to recognize Hashem's goodness, to express our gratitude, and to sing His praises. If a person would be asked what he would do if, after his passing, he could be resurrected for five minutes, his response should be that he would use this time to praise Hashem. This concept is emphasized further in the next chapter, which begins, "Halleluy-ah Ki Tob Zamera L'Elokenu" – we should praise Hashem because "it is good to sing to our G-d." One of the greatest privileges we have is the opportunity to praise Hashem each and every day. The fourth of these five chapters exclaims, "Shiru L'Hashem Shir Hadash" – "Sing a new song to G-d." This verse uses the masculine term for song – "Shir" – as opposed to the feminine form – "Shira." The difference between the masculine and feminine form is that the feminine form implies succession, that there will be other songs, just as a woman produces children, whereas the masculine form refers to a song that does not produce more songs. The masculine term "Shir" is used in this Psalm because it speaks of the final song, the song that we will sing at the time of Mashiah's arrival. Indeed, the end of this chapter talks about G-d taking revenge from Israel's enemies – "La'asot Nekama Ba'goyim" – as it refers to the final redemption, when our enemies will be vanquished. The final of these chapters, "Halleluy-ah Halelu Kel Be'kodsho" – concludes with the verse, "Kol Ha'neshama Tehalel Y-ah Halleluy-ah" – "Every soul shall praise G-d, Halleluy-ah" – and it is customary to recite this concluding verse twice. One of the reasons given is that by repeating this verse, we end up recite the verb "Hallelu"/"Tehalel" twelve times, an allusion to the custom to recite Hallel on Rosh Hodesh, at the beginning of each of the twelve months of the year. The Arizal taught that the first letters of the words "Kol Ha'neshama Tehalel" – Kaf, Heh and Tav – spell a Name of Hashem associated with protection from danger. Having this intention while reciting these words can help protect a person from harm. It is likewise recommended to recite these words with this intention anytime one fears some sort of danger. The Arizal noted that this also helps protect pregnant women from miscarriage. Rav David Abudarham (Spain, 14 th century) writes that the Pesukeh De'zimra service is constructed in a manner that corresponds to the "Asara Ma'amarot" – the ten pronouncements through which G-d brought the world into existence. Pesukeh De'zimra begins with the blessing of Baruch She'amar, which corresponds to the first pronouncement. It is followed by Mizmor Le'toda – which parallels the second pronouncement, that of "Va'yehi Or" ("There shall be light"), and so on. The chapter of "Halleluy-ah Halelu Kel Be'kodsho" corresponds to the final pronouncement, the creation of Adam, and thus concludes, "Every soul shall praise G-d," emphasizing the point that the human being is the only one among the world's creatures capable of giving praise to G-d. After completing these five chapters of Tehillim, we recite four verses: "Baruch Hashem Le'olam Amen Ve'amen" (Tehillim 89:53); "Baruch Hashem Mi'sion, Shochen Yerushalayim…" (Tehillim 135:21); "Baruch Hashem Elokim Oseh Niflaot Le'bado U'baruch Shem Kebodo Le'olam…" (72:18-19). The first of these verses marks the conclusion of the third of the five books of Tehillim, and the fourth and fifth verses mark the conclusion of the second book. We thus recite these verses as a fitting conclusion to our recitation of Tehillim in Pesukeh De'zimra. Additionally, the first verse has five words, corresponding to the congregation's five-word response to Barechu – "Baruch Hashem Ha'meborach Le'olam Va'ed." The second verse consists of six words, alluding to the six words of the verse "Shema Yisrael Hashem Elokenu Hashem Ehad." Finally, the third and fourth verses contain a total of 19 words, paralleling the 19 blessings of the Amida prayer. The first and final verses conclude with "Amen Ve'amen." The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) explains that the word "Amen" is repeated to affirm the eternal truth of our praise of Hashem, both in this world and the next. One should not add other chapters of Tehillim or other verses in Pesukeh De'zimra. For example, if somebody completed Pesukeh De'zimra before the Hazan, he should not add recitations while he waits for the Hazan to finish. Neither should a person repeat any of the text of Pesukeh De'zimra. Even if one realized that he had recited Pesukeh De'zimra without Kavana (concentration), he should not repeat it. (The exception is the verse "Pote'ah Et Yadecha U'masbi'a…" which should be repeated if it was recited without Kavana, as we discussed in a previous installment.)

The greatest segulot are found in the 613 mitzvot that Hashem gave us. Of course, the true reward for mitzvot is paid in the next world, but they also come with side benefits in this world as well. One man told me that from the time he started saying Birkat HaMazon properly, with understanding and focus, he was able to break through with four new customers in his business. Another man told me that he suddenly received two unexpected payments totaling $25,000. Another man shared something even more striking. He had a fever for nine straight days—the longest he had ever been sick in his life. Just a few days after the fever finally broke, he became ill again, this time with another high fever. He went to the doctor, who ran a series of blood tests. The results were very troubling. His numbers were completely out of range, and his white blood cell count was extremely high, indicating a serious infection. The doctor told him further testing would be needed and that he would have to return for a chest X-ray, as pneumonia was a real concern. Meanwhile, over the previous six weeks, many unusual things had been happening to this man's children. He felt that something wasn't right and decided it was time to have his mezuzot checked. The very same day the doctor gave him the alarming news about his blood work, a sofer arrived at his home to check his mezuzot. After examining them, the sofer told him that thirteen mezuzot were invalid. The man was stunned. He begged the sofer to replace them immediately. The sofer said he would return the next day with new mezuzot. The following day, the man went to the imaging center for his chest X-ray, only to be told that he couldn't have it done without a prescription. Since his doctor's office was located in the same building, he went upstairs to get one. The doctor looked at him and said that he appeared a bit better than before and asked if he could recheck his bloodwork. Just minutes before entering the doctor's office, the sofer had called to inform him that all thirteen mezuzot had been replaced with beautiful, high-quality, kosher mezuzot. When the new blood test results came back, the doctor was astonished. Every number had returned to normal. He told the man, "Everything looks completely fine. I've never seen anything like this in my life." The very next day, the man felt one hundred percent better and resumed his normal routine. Hashem gives us mitzvot for our benefit. He doesn't need anything from us. He only wants to give to us. And the way He gives us is through the performance of mitzvot—but they must be done properly. Birkat HaMazon has extraordinary segulot, but it needs to be said with true appreciation and understanding of the words. Mezuzot protect us, but only when they are written and affixed according to halachah. It was a tremendous act of kindness from Hashem to alert this man that his mezuzot were invalid. Because the primary reason we keep mitzvot is not for the segulot. It is because they are the will of Hashem and a fulfillment of His Torah. When mitzvot are deficient, a person is missing part of his tikkun in this world. Our mission in life is to become complete in the fulfillment of mitzvot. In Hashem's great love for us, along the way, He gives us encouragement, bonuses, and gentle reminders—so that we can succeed in the purpose for which we were created.

It's been a little while… and Morah Tziri is back with big news and a powerful Chanukah conversation. ✨Together let's dive into a heart-opening Chanukah episode with the one and only Mrs. Slovie Jungreis Wolff – daughter of Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis and a beloved teacher, author, and speaker.This episode is not just for kids and not just for parents. It's meant to be listened to together. Around the table, in the car, in the kitchen – wherever your family listens best.Morah Tziri and Mrs. Wolff talk honestly about:What real confidence looks like (hint: it's not your sneakers or your swag)How to handle jealousy, comparison, and “stuff” in a world that always has moreWhy every child has their own “spiritual fingerprints” that no one else in the world hasHow even “ordinary” kids can be heroes in tiny, quiet waysTurning Chanukah from “What did you GET?” into “What did we GIVE?”Anxiety, worry, and how to stop writing scary stories in your headThe power of kids' tefillos and why adults are literally counting on themAlong the way you'll hear:A bar mitzvah sweatshirt story that flips “popularity” on its headHow a 10-year-old slime maker turned her hobby into a $1,000 mitzvah projectA mashal about a bird and a lion that will change the way your kids think about jealousyA beautiful idea to see your children as holy lights when you look at them by the menorahThis is an episode you can come back to again and again – for Chanukah, for tough days, and for those quiet moments when your child asks, “Am I really special?”In This Episode, You'll Hear:

The section of Ashreh, which we recite three times each day, contains the famous verse, "Pote'ah Et Yadecha U'masbi'a Le'chol Hai Rason" – "You open Your hands and willfully satiate every living creature" (Tehillim 145:16). This verse is especially significant, and, in fact, it is one of the reasons why we are to recite this chapter of Tehillim three times each day (Berachot 4b). It must therefore be recited with concentration, and it behooves us to properly understand its meaning. While the verse's meaning is generally straightforward, the final word – "Rason" – requires explanation. This word means "will," that which a person wishes for. What exactly did King David mean when he said that Hashem satiates all living beings "Rason"? One explanation is that Hashem does not just give us a livelihood – but He does so willfully, lovingly. Just as a parent loves giving to his or her children, and wants to give them as much as possible, Hashem similarly loves us and wants very much to give us a livelihood. It is his pleasure, so-to-speak, to sustain us. Others explain "Rason" as referring to our will, the will of the beneficiaries of Hashem's kindness. He fills our needs and grants us what we wish for. There is also another possible interpretation of the word "Rason" in this verse. Very often, financial success results from a person's likeability, his finding favor in other people's eyes. He earns other people's respect and fondness, and it is because of this that they buy his product or solicit his services. It is not always the product itself which attracts buyers; sometimes it's the seller's character and demeanor. The phrase "U'masbi'a Le'chol Hai Rason" thus might refer to G-d's providing a livelihood by granting a person "Rason" – a certain charm and likeability. Hashem often helps a person succeed by giving him this quality whereby he attracts customers and his products or services are eagerly sought after. The scholars of Kabbalah have unearthed numerous additional layers of interpretations underlying this verse. The Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakob Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939) writes that the vast majority of people should not try to have deep kabbalistic intentions while praying, and should instead ensure to concentrate on the plain, straightforward meaning of the words. Seeking to pray with these deep intentions could lead one to overlook the plain meaning, and the Kaf Ha'haim warns that this could be harmful to the person's Tefila. Nevertheless, there are two relatively straightforward kabbalistic allusions in this verse which are worthwhile for even us to learn and have in mind while reciting it. The first letters of the words "Pote'ah Et Yadecha" – Peh, Alef, Yod – spell a Name of Hashem that is associated with His providing us with Parnasa. Another Name is formed by the final letters of these words – Het, Tav, Chaf. It is recommended, when possible, to have these Names in mind while reciting this verse in the Tefila. If one recites this verse in Ashreh and then realizes that he recited it without Kavana (concentration), then he must repeat it. This is the ruling of the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909). If the person realized his mistake before he completed Ashreh, then he simply returns to the verse of "Pote'ah Et Yadecha" and continues from there. If he did not realize his mistake until he began the next chapter of Tehillim ("Hallelu-ya Haleli Nafshi"), then he should complete that chapter and then recite "Pote'ah Et Yadecha…" before beginning the following chapter ("Hallelu-ya Ki Tob Zamra"). Meaning, the verse should be inserted in between the subsequent chapters, and not in the middle of a chapter. If a person realized his mistake only later, after Pesukeh De'zimra, then he should ensure to have Kavana when reciting this verse in Ashreh before U'ba Le'sion. And if he failed to have Kavana also at that point, then he should try again while reciting Ashreh at Minha. Some Poskim maintained that one who did not recite this verse with Kavana and realized his mistake only later should repeat it after the Amida, but Hacham Ovadia Yosef ruled that it suffices to ensure to recite it with Kavana in Ashreh before U'ba Le'sion. The Ben Ish Hai and the Hesed La'alafim (Rav Eliezer Papo, 1785-1828) write that when one needs to repeat this verse, he should begin two verses earlier, from "Somech Hashem Le'chol Ha'nofelim." From the Shulhan Aruch and other Poskim, however, it appears that it suffices to recite just "Pote'ah Et Yadecha…" This is the view of Hacham Ovadia Yosef, in Yalkut Yosef. Nevertheless, if time allows, it is recommended to begin from "Somech Hashem Le'chol Ha'nofelim." Some noted the distinction drawn by Halacha between one who recites "Pote'ah Et Yadecha" without Kavana, and one who recites the first blessing of the Amida without Kavana. While one of course must endeavor to concentrate throughout the entire Amida, one must minimally have Kavana while reciting the first Beracha. Nevertheless, the Halacha is that if one did not have Kavana during the first blessing, he does not repeat the Amida, because of the likelihood that he will not concentrate the second time, either. When it comes to "Pote'ah Et Yadecha," however, as we have discussed, one who recited this verse without Kavana is required to repeat it. Two explanations are given for this distinction. First, quite simply, it is far easier to concentrate while reciting a single verse, and so there is little reason to think that one who did not have Kavana while reciting this verse during Ashreh will not have Kavana when he repeats it. Additionally, Halacha is always more careful when it comes to the recitation of Berachot, given the prohibition against reciting a Beracha in vain. Therefore, a person who did not have Kavana during the first Beracha of the Amida is told not to repeat the Amida due to the concern that he will not concentrate the second time, and the blessings of the Amida will then have been recited in vain. When reciting a verse from Tehillim, however, there is no such concern, and thus the person should repeat the verse despite the possibility that he will not concentrate. It is customary to open one's hands when reciting this verse, which speaks of Hashem opening His hands to give us our livelihood. This is done to symbolize our preparedness to receive the blessing that G-d bestows. Of course, we do not need to actually open our hands to receive the Beracha, but we nevertheless perform this action as a visual expression of our desire to receive Hashem's blessings. The Ben Ish Hai writes that one should open his hands horizontally, side to side, without lifting them up in the air. Some stand for the recitation of "Pote'ah Et Yadecha," but this is not our practice. Summary: One must have Kavana (concentration) when reciting the verse "Pote'ah Et Yadecha…" in Ashreh during the prayer service. If one realized during Ashreh that he had recited this verse without Kavana, then he must go back to recite it with Kavana, and then proceed from there. If he remembers after Ashreh, then he should add this verse in between chapters of Pesukeh De'zimra. According to some opinions, if the person did not realize his mistake until after Pesukeh De'zimra, then he should repeat the verse after the Amida. Others maintain that he should just ensure to have Kavana during Ashreh before U'ba Le'sion. If one needs to repeat this verse, it is preferable to begin two verses earlier, from "Somech Hashem Le'chol Ha'nofelim." It is customary to open one's hands while reciting "Pote'ah Et Yadecha." They should be opened only horizontally, side to side, and not lifted in the air.

The Henry and Lisa Manoucheri Parsha Shiur  Parshas VaYishlach The Uniqueness of the Jew & Striving for Our Divinity 

Jews have a tendency that whenever they speak, they regularly mention G-d or the common Hebrew word Hashem. Where does this come from? Why do we mention G-d so regularly and casually in our conversations?A fascinating conversation about the Jewish custom of regularly mentioning G-d.

In this episode of the Prayer Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the significance of Pesukei Dezimra, a crucial segment of Jewish prayer known as the verses of song or praise. Rabbi Wolbe explains that Pesukei Dezimra serves as a preparatory phase for the main prayer, the Amidah, by fostering a state of joy and spiritual readiness. He emphasizes the importance of reciting these verses with intention and clarity, likening it to counting money—fast yet precise, ensuring no word is missed. The discussion highlights the transformative power of these prayers, which help individuals connect deeply with God, prune away distractions, and elevate their spiritual state.Rabbi Wolbe further explores the historical and spiritual context of Pesukei Dezimra, drawing on teachings from the Talmud and the Mishnah. He explains that these prayers are not only a form of praise but also a means of spiritual pruning, removing barriers to divine connection. The episode underscores the idea that prayer is a journey through different spiritual worlds, with Pesukei Dezimra acting as a vital transition from the physical to the spiritual realm. Rabbi Wolbe encourages listeners to invest time and focus in their prayers, as this investment enhances their connection with God and enriches their spiritual lives._____________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. #42) 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 December 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 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, #PesukaiDezimra, #Psalms, #spiritual, #joy, #connection ★ Support this podcast ★

In this powerful and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Rabbi Elchanan Shoff (Los Angeles, USA) and Rabbi Michal Weichbrod (Yehuda, Israel) for a rare, honest, and passionate conversation about one of the most charged topics in the Jewish world today: Do Jews belong in America—or is it time to move to Eretz Yisrael? Together, they dive into:

In the beginning of this week's Parashat Vayishlach, Ya'akov Avinu is preparing to confront Esav, who wanted to kill him. Rashi tells us that Ya'akov prepared himself in three ways: sending gifts, praying, and strategizing for a potential battle. Why did Rashi list them in this order—placing tefillah second, between sending gifts and preparing for war? The Be'era Parashah explains that Rashi is teaching a fundamental principle about tefillah. Hashem built into the nature of the world that prayer works. And just as giving gifts and preparing for war are normal hishtadlut that people do, so too tefillah operates within the natural order. It is not considered miraculous to have prayers answered. For this reason, the Maharsha writes that although the Gemara teaches that a miracle performed for a person can deduct from his merits, anything attained through tefillah—even the greatest salvations—does not take away any merits, because tefillah is never considered a miracle. This understanding should give us tremendous chizuk. The answering of tefillah is part of how the world was created to function. Tefillot are so powerful that they can change decrees no matter how impossible the odds may appear. Chazal tell us that in Shamayim it had been decreed that Esav would marry Le'ah and Ya'akov would marry Rachel—"the older for the older, and the younger for the younger." The Alshich adds that Le'ah had four overwhelming hurdles preventing her from marrying Ya'akov. First, the heavenly decree had designated her for Esav. Second, the Pasuk testifies to Rachel's beauty. Third, the Pasuk tells us that Ya'akov loved Rachel. And fourth, Ya'akov worked for seven years for Rachel and took great precautions not to be deceived by Lavan. Yet Le'ah prayed so intensely, so persistently, with so many tears that her eyes became tender. And through those tefillot, she overturned the decree and all the natural odds. Chazal say that the greatness of tefillah is such that not only did Le'ah avoid marrying Esav, she even preceded Rachel to marry Ya'akov. And because of those same tefillot, she gave birth to six of the twelve Shevatim—the Bechor, the Kehunah, the Levi'im, the Meluchah, and the lineage of Mashiah—all emerging from her prayers. The Pasuk in Parashat Vayera says that the angels were sent to destroy Sedom while Avraham was still standing before Hashem. The next Pasuk tells us that Avraham prayed for Sedom to be spared. The Seforno explains: even though the decree had already been issued and the angels had already arrived in Sedom, Avraham still prayed, because he understood the ways of Hashem. As Chazal tell us Even if a sharp sword is already touching a person's neck, he should still pray, because tefillah can work no matter how desperate the situation seems. This past year, a woman received the difficult news that she had a tumor, lo 'alenu. At that time, she strengthened herself in guarding her speech and devoted herself to encouraging others to do the same. She was told that she would need the strongest form of chemotherapy. The doctors warned her of every side effect—especially that it was absolutely guaranteed she would lose all her hair. She asked them if there was anything at all she could do to avoid this. Their answer was clear: with the dosage she required, there was a one-hundred-percent certainty she would lose every strand. But she strengthened herself with the knowledge that with Hashem, nothing is fixed. She poured her heart into tefillah—not only for a full recovery, but also that she should not lose any of her hair. Today, Baruch Hashem the tumor has been completely removed. And amazingly, she did not lose even one strand of hair throughout the entire process. The doctors had no explanation. But the explanation is clear. She prayed to the Creator of the world—the One Who decides whether hair falls out or remains. Tefillah is wondrous, and Hashem created it to work as part of the natural order of the world. The more a person recognizes Hashem's power and involvement in every aspect of his life, the deeper, stronger, and more effective his tefillah becomes. Shabbat shalom.

By definition, Bitachon is the reliance on Hashem, so how is it possible to be truly "grounded" while also have complete and total bitachon in Hashem?

Full TorahAnytime Lecture Video or Audio More classes from R' Yaakov Mizrahi ⭐ 2,503

Full TorahAnytime Lecture Video or Audio More classes from R' Yaakov Mizrahi ⭐ 2,503

In Parshas Vayishlach, Yaakov returns home after 20 years with the wicked Laban and immediately sends real angels as messengers to his murderous brother Esav, prefacing their message with the cryptic line “Im Lavan garti” – “With Laban I sojourned.” Rashi reveals the hidden code: the word “garti” (גרתי) has the numerical value of 613 (תרי״ג), meaning “Even while living with the evil Laban, I kept all 613 mitzvos and never learned from his wicked ways.” Yaakov is teaching every Jew for all time: no matter how far away you are, no matter how hostile the environment, the Torah is the ultimate protective shield that preserves and elevates your soul. As Rabbi Wolbe powerfully declared: “When you stay firm in Torah study every single day, there is nothing in the world that can take you down.”The parsha's eternal message is crystallized in the Friday-night blessing we give our children: “Yisimcha Elokim k'Ephraim v'chi'Menashe” – may God make you like Ephraim and Menashe, the only two tribal ancestors raised in decadent, idolatrous Egypt yet who grew into pure tzaddikim. Why them? Because wherever our children end up – Houston, Memphis, Vegas, or the middle of nowhere – they may not have a yeshiva, a kosher restaurant, or even a minyan, but they will always have the Torah. As Rabbi Wolbe summed up: “The Torah is the blueprint of the world… and when you live with that blueprint, no darkness can touch you.” Yaakov, Ephraim, and Menashe all proved that one Jew + one Torah = unstoppable light._____________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 December 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 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, #JewishWisdom, #SpiritualGrowth, #Angels, #jacob ★ Support this podcast ★

It is not uncommon for a person to feel down about himself when he looks around and notices other people's strengths and talents. He sees that his friends give more charity than he does. He sees that they pray with more concentration. They understand the learning more quickly, and everything seems to come easier for them. And he begins to wonder, "What is my life worth? I have nothing that I excel in." A young man once wrote a painful letter to Rav Shlomo Wolbe about his struggle in yeshivah. He felt everyone else understood the Gemara and shiurim right away, while he worked so hard just to grasp the basics. Others remembered what they learned, while he forgot. He felt he was accomplishing nothing, and it was breaking him. Rav Wolbe wrote back that he was suffering from a bad case of jealousy and explained- Seeing other people's strengths can make a person feel like he has nothing. But if he would only realize what priceless gifts Hashem has given him, his whole outlook would change. A person must know that when it comes to our avodat Hashem, if we use the strengths and weaknesses we were given to serve Hashem, we can reach the highest levels of kedushah. A person's strengths were not given randomly. And his weaknesses were not an accident. They are the exact tools he is meant to have to serve Hashem with. If a person truly knew that Hashem gave him a very specific job and that this is all Hashem wants from him, he would never care what anyone else has. He has a mission that nobody else could ever fulfill. No one else could do his job in this world. We are never measured against what other people do. In fact, if a person was blessed with outstanding talents, that only means he carries greater responsibility. And if he does not use those gifts properly, he will be held more accountable for them. Sometimes the very people we envy are the ones who will face harsher judgment if they fail to live up to their potential. A person should be happy learning the way he knows best. He should be happy praying the way he can. He should be happy giving the amount of tzedakah he is capable of giving. If he fulfills his maximum potential with his own tools, he can reach the same greatness as the greatest people of his generation. But if someone constantly thinks, "Why can't I understand like him?" or "Why can't I remember like him?" he can destroy his entire mission in this world. Shelomo Hamelech taught us that jealousy causes rotting of the bones. It decays a person from the inside. It takes all the beautiful gifts Hashem gave him and makes them rot, because he feels worthless compared to others and stops using them. Instead of building, jealousy paralyzes. Instead of growing, it shrivels. We are in this world for one reason: to serve Hashem. Everything else is secondary. Hashem did not ask us to be someone else. He only asked us to be who He created us to be. And what He gave us is exactly what we need to succeed. If we had what others had, we would be wasting our life. This applies to middot as well. If a person is naturally anxious, it is because that is the area he must refine. If someone is short-tempered, it is because that is the battlefield Hashem gave his neshamah. If someone struggles with motivation or patience or trust, that is not a flaw in the system — it is the system. Hashem is the only One who knows our mission. And He built each of us perfectly to accomplish it. There never was and never will be another person with your exact combination of talents, fears, urges, childhood experiences, temperament, and circumstances. Every detail was planned by our loving Creator who wants us to succeed in the mission that we were sent here to fulfill. Instead of focusing on what everyone else has, we should be thanking Hashem for who we are-because that is the only way we can be successful in this world

Vayishlach | Hegemonism or Conquest? by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom ולזרעך נתתי את הארץ - What was at the core of Yaakov's dispute with his sons after the massacre of Sh'khem?  Continuously throughout Sefer Bereishit, our Patriarchs are promised by Hashem that their descendants will be "given" the Land - but there is no indication of how that gift will be given, of how that "inheritance" will be achieved. We explore what may have been the perspective of our Avot in that regard - and how and why it changed by the time we arrived in Mitzrayim. Source sheet >>

Translating the vision of the Avos into our unique service of Hashem.

Yom Habahir - Yud-Daled Kislev (23:48)

Hashem es el piloto de nuestra vida. No debemos temer. NUNCA.Recuerda que puedes ver los Maasim también en YouTube.

Sometimes we hear stories of shidduchim that sound unbelievable — a match suggested by mistake, a name mentioned in passing, a resume being sent after being told "no" again and again, two people from completely different worlds coming together in ways no one could have ever predicted. These stories remind us that Hashem is actively involved in every shidduch that takes place. Not only are the meetings from Hashem — even the responses are from Hashem. Who says yes and who says no. Who returns a call and who doesn't. Who suddenly becomes interested and who loses interest. Who delays and who decides quickly. It is all guided by Hashem. If a shidduch fails, it is not because of something that was said or done. It is because it was not meant to be. And if a shidduch is meant to be, Hashem has millions of ways of making it happen. We never have to worry about how we will meet the one Hashem intended for us. He already arranged it. Rabbi Reuven Elbaz told of a baal teshuvah who joined his yeshivah. The man was already older and still had not married. The rabbi gently encouraged him to begin dating, and after much hesitation, he finally agreed. Some time later, a match was proposed and a meeting was arranged at a hotel. The young man arrived on time — but the girl never showed. He waited. And waited. While sitting in the lobby, he noticed another young woman who also seemed to be waiting for someone. Curious, he gently asked her who she was waiting for. She replied that she was supposed to meet a man, but he apparently had not shown up. The man then told her what had happened to him and asked if perhaps they would agree to meet and see if there might be compatibility between them. She hesitated — but then agreed. That "chance" meeting turned out to be the right one. After making all the proper inquiries, they discovered they were perfect for each other. Baruch Hashem, he eventually became a serious talmid chacham, and to this day he thanks Hashem for sending him the best wife possible in the most unexpected way. Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Friedman, author of the popular Gilyon Noam Siach , related another remarkable story. Last summer, he attended the engagement party of one of the members of his kehillah. When he arrived, the father of the chatan hurried over and said, "Rabbi, I want to tell you how this shidduch happened." A few weeks earlier, the man had attended the engagement party of the rabbi's daughter. When he arrived at the hall, there was a line of people waiting to give their wishes. When it was his turn, the rabbi warmly greeted him and then, unexpectedly, said, "Please sit for a little while — over there, near my sons and sons-in-law." The man was puzzled. No one else had been asked to sit. He had never planned on sitting. But because the rabbi asked, he went and sat. Just before that evening, a shidduch had been suggested for his son Pinchas, but this father had not felt drawn to it. Now, while sitting among the rabbi's family, he began speaking with one of the rabbi's sons-in-law. When the son-in-law mentioned where he lived, the father realized he lived in the same neighborhood as the girl's family. So he asked him about them. The son-in-law spoke glowingly about the family. By the end of that one conversation, the father's heart had changed. And now — Baruch Hashem — they were celebrating the engagement. Hashem knows how to place people in the right location, at the right time, with the right words and the right mood — in ways none of us could ever design. A person should never fall into despair wondering, "Maybe I ruined it. Maybe I said something wrong." If a shidduch is meant to be, nothing in the world can stop it. And if it is not meant to be, then it was never truly yours — no matter how promising it looked. When the Steipler Rebbe went to meet the sister of the Chazon Ish, he knew the trip involved a four-hour train ride. Planning to sleep during the ride, he learned intensely for nearly two days straight without rest. But upon boarding, he worried that the seats might contain sha'atnez — so he stood the entire trip. By the time he arrived, he was utterly exhausted. During the meeting, he fell asleep multiple times. He also had a hearing problem and struggled to hear much of what was said. And still — she said yes. Because when Hashem wants the shidduch, nothing can stop it. Hashem is the Master Shadchan. He brings people together in ways that defy logic, timelines, and expectations. And when we truly absorb this, shidduchim become less frightening, less pressured — and far more peaceful. We learn to trust. We learn to wait. We learn that when it is time — it will happen.

In this finale of the Five levels of Pleasure we wind it down with the most thought provoking of all the pleasures, an Encounter with God. We discuss the soul of a Yid and how driven it is. We find out how all five pleasures interplay with each other as a need to obtain the highest pleasure. Some fun stories and accents can be found here as well, Enjoy!

Parshas Toldos is the ultimate masterclass in parenting, love, perseverance, and the eternal tug-of-war between heaven and earth. When Rivka feels her twins fighting in the womb, she is terrified that she is carrying one confused child who is pulled toward both holiness and idolatry. The prophet calms her with the shocking news: “Shnei goyim b'vitnech – two nations are in your womb.” Instead of despairing, she is relieved. Why? Because, as Rabbi Wolbe explains, “the benefit and greatness of Yaakov is so immense that it will supersede all the negative that she will ever experience from Esav.” One pure Yaakov is worth more than all the damage a thousand Esavs can do.The Torah then paints a seemingly troubling picture: “Isaac loved Esav because he put game in his mouth, but Rivka loved Yaakov.” How can holy parents play favorites? The answer redefines love itself: “Love is not finding similarities — love is seeing the potential in the other person and connecting to that.” Isaac gazed at wild, powerful Esav and thought, “If this explosive energy is ever channeled for good, he could move mountains.” Rivka looked at quiet, tent-dwelling Yaakov and saw pure, undiluted holiness already shining. Both parents loved both sons — they simply poured their energy into the child whose hidden potential moved them the most. This becomes the model for all healthy parenting and marriage: every child is your favorite — favorite scholar, favorite artist, favorite comedian, favorite mensch — because “each one is uniquely different… you're not comparing apples to apples, you're comparing apples to oranges to bananas.”For 63 long years Yaakov lives in his wicked brother's shadow. Esav hunts, flatters, and cleverly asks questions like “How do you tithe salt?” just to appear pious and win Isaac's heart. Yaakov, meanwhile, clings only to the “heel” of spirituality — always second place, always doubting, always wondering, “Maybe my father is right and I'm wrong.” Yet he never once compromises. At 63 he finally cooks the lentil stew that wins the blessings, proving that “spiritual growth is always at the heel — slow, painful, and full of doubt — but the tzaddik never quits.” As Rabbi Wolbe powerfully declares: “Quitters always finish first. If you want to win, you can't quit — ever.” And again: “The natural state of a tzaddik is to fall seven times… but the falling is not what we emphasize — it's the getting back up.”The parsha ends with two beautiful side lessons. First, Eliezer (from the cursed lineage of Canaan) is rejected as a match for Isaac, yet when he remains loyally devoted to Avraham despite the insult, Hashem rewards him with kfitzas haderech — miraculous instant travel reserved only for the righteous. Loyalty and perseverance turn even a “cursed” person into a tzaddik. Second, the same dynamic of “investing in the child who needs it most” repeats with Yaakov and Yosef: Yaakov favors Yosef not out of nepotism, but because he sees the unimaginable trials awaiting him in Egypt and knows, “This one is going to need extra love to survive and triumph.”_____________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 25, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 3, 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, #ParentalLove, #Resilience, #Family, #Rebecca, #Isaac, #Esau, #Jacob, #Potential, #Growth, #Yetzirah, #EvilInclination, #Choices, #Challenges, #Yosef, #Destiny, #Potential, #JewishHistory, #Mitzrayim, #Trials, #Yitzchak, #Complexity, #Struggle ★ Support this podcast ★

Parshas Toldos is the ultimate masterclass in parenting, love, perseverance, and the eternal tug-of-war between heaven and earth. When Rivka feels her twins fighting in the womb, she is terrified that she is carrying one confused child who is pulled toward both holiness and idolatry. The prophet calms her with the shocking news: “Shnei goyim b'vitnech – two nations are in your womb.” Instead of despairing, she is relieved. Why? Because, as Rabbi Wolbe explains, “the benefit and greatness of Yaakov is so immense that it will supersede all the negative that she will ever experience from Esav.” One pure Yaakov is worth more than all the damage a thousand Esavs can do.The Torah then paints a seemingly troubling picture: “Isaac loved Esav because he put game in his mouth, but Rivka loved Yaakov.” How can holy parents play favorites? The answer redefines love itself: “Love is not finding similarities — love is seeing the potential in the other person and connecting to that.” Isaac gazed at wild, powerful Esav and thought, “If this explosive energy is ever channeled for good, he could move mountains.” Rivka looked at quiet, tent-dwelling Yaakov and saw pure, undiluted holiness already shining. Both parents loved both sons — they simply poured their energy into the child whose hidden potential moved them the most. This becomes the model for all healthy parenting and marriage: every child is your favorite — favorite scholar, favorite artist, favorite comedian, favorite mensch — because “each one is uniquely different… you're not comparing apples to apples, you're comparing apples to oranges to bananas.”For 63 long years Yaakov lives in his wicked brother's shadow. Esav hunts, flatters, and cleverly asks questions like “How do you tithe salt?” just to appear pious and win Isaac's heart. Yaakov, meanwhile, clings only to the “heel” of spirituality — always second place, always doubting, always wondering, “Maybe my father is right and I'm wrong.” Yet he never once compromises. At 63 he finally cooks the lentil stew that wins the blessings, proving that “spiritual growth is always at the heel — slow, painful, and full of doubt — but the tzaddik never quits.” As Rabbi Wolbe powerfully declares: “Quitters always finish first. If you want to win, you can't quit — ever.” And again: “The natural state of a tzaddik is to fall seven times… but the falling is not what we emphasize — it's the getting back up.”The parsha ends with two beautiful side lessons. First, Eliezer (from the cursed lineage of Canaan) is rejected as a match for Isaac, yet when he remains loyally devoted to Avraham despite the insult, Hashem rewards him with kfitzas haderech — miraculous instant travel reserved only for the righteous. Loyalty and perseverance turn even a “cursed” person into a tzaddik. Second, the same dynamic of “investing in the child who needs it most” repeats with Yaakov and Yosef: Yaakov favors Yosef not out of nepotism, but because he sees the unimaginable trials awaiting him in Egypt and knows, “This one is going to need extra love to survive and triumph.”_____________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 25, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 3, 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, #ParentalLove, #Resilience, #Family, #Rebecca, #Isaac, #Esau, #Jacob, #Potential, #Growth, #Yetzirah, #EvilInclination, #Choices, #Challenges, #Yosef, #Destiny, #Potential, #JewishHistory, #Mitzrayim, #Trials, #Yitzchak, #Complexity, #Struggle ★ Support this podcast ★

The Psychology Behind the Parsha Parshas VaYishlach In AND Out of the Box

Podcast Jajam Shlomo (Sally) Zaed Barej Alenu, la Berajá que Hashem nos manda Conferencia

Hashem leads the defeat of Sisera's army

Yud-Gimmel Kislev (20:33)

Send us a textDaven to Hashem, not angels

Hezbollah Regeneration and Israel's Targeted Killing of Hashem Safieddine — John Batchelor, Bill Roggio, David Daoud — Daoud reports that Hezbollah is actively regenerating military capabilities throughout Lebanon, systematically violating the ceasefire agreement through infrastructure reconstruction and weapons procurement. Roggiodocuments that Israel successfully targeted and killed Hashem Safieddine, identified as Hezbollah's top military logistics officer overseeing reconstruction operations. Batchelor notes that Iran has reportedly allocated $2 billion for Hezbollah reconstruction and operational purposes, demonstrating Tehran's commitment to sustaining the organization despite military setbacks. Daoud details Israeli Defense Force operations including air strikes, drone operations, and ground-based policing activities against Hezbollah assets throughout Lebanon. 1836 BEIRUT

Sometimes there is strife in the home due to a difficult relationship between a father-in-law and a son-in-law. When a son-in-law feels he is being treated unfairly, controlled, or that no matter what he does it is never enough, it can cause great damage to the home and deeply disturb a person's inner peace. We must internalize a fundamental truth: Hashem places every person into our lives. It is not by chance and it is not by mistake. Every relationship is carefully planned by the Master Orchestrator to help each person fulfill his mission in this world. The Torah tells us about one of the most difficult fathers-in-law in all of history. People sometimes complain, "It's not fair, my father-in-law doesn't give me money." Yaakov Avinu's father-in-law not only didn't give him money — he stole from him on a daily basis. The Midrash tells us that Lavan justified his thievery by claiming that Yaakov still owed him fourteen more years of work for Bilhah and Zilpah. He was manipulative and dishonest, changing Yaakov's wages again and again. Chazal tell us it was done a hundred times. He took advantage of Yaakov's devotion and honesty. Yaakov worked seven long years to marry Rachel, and Lavan had no problem switching her for Leah. He felt no guilt whatsoever. Even worse, afterward he justified himself, making it seem as though Yaakov was the one who acted improperly by marrying the younger sister before the older one. Yaakov was forced to endure deception, manipulation, and emotional torture from his father-in-law for twenty years. Yet the Torah testifies about him that his integrity remained perfect. Yaakov understood that this suffering was not random. He knew this was part of his avodat Hashem and an essential piece of his mission in life. For twenty years he lived in Lavan's home, yet remained attached to Hashem with unwavering emunah. Every test, every humiliation, every disappointment, he accepted with one thought in mind: this is me'et Hashem. Of course, Yaakov did his hishtadlut. He took reasonable steps to protect himself. He confronted Lavan respectfully. He negotiated. He acted wisely. But once something happened, he always returned it to Hashem and reminded himself that nothing occurs outside of His will. It is not forbidden to question a person who harms you, but it must be done with dignity, not with rage and not with cruelty. A Jew is not judged only by what he endures, but by how he endures it. The Torah is teaching us something fundamental. When Hashem places difficult people into our lives, it is not to break us, but to build us. Not to humiliate us, but to refine us. Not to weaken us, but to strengthen us. A difficult father-in-law can feel suffocating. He may be critical, controlling, dismissive, or impossible to satisfy. Nothing seems good enough. You may feel constantly judged, unheard, and trapped in a role you never volunteered for. And it hurts precisely because it comes from a place that was meant to be safe. This is where emunah must rise to the surface. Hashem sees every tear. He hears every painful word. He counts every insult that was swallowed in silence. And when a person restrains himself for the sake of shalom in his home, that sacrifice shines brightly in shamayim. Yaakov did not leave Lavan's house defeated. He emerged spiritually powerful. Though Lavan tried to harm him emotionally and physically, Yaakov walked away with a beautiful family, great wealth, and an inner greatness that shaped the future of Klal Yisrael. It is not that Lavan became a better person. It is that Yaakov became a greater one. So many people beg Hashem to change others. But sometimes Hashem is working on changing us instead. And that is far more powerful. The more a person works on his middot and his emunah, the more blessing Hashem pours into his life in ways he could never imagine.

Each morning, immediately after Baruch She'amar, we recite the 100 th chapter of Tehillim – Mizmor Le'toda, the Psalm that was sung during the offering of the Korban Toda (thanksgiving sacrifice) in the Bet Ha'mikdash. Several explanations have been given for why this chapter was incorporated into our daily prayer service. One reason is that we recite this chapter to express gratitude for the creation of light which we enjoy anew each morning. The Kab Ha'yashar (Rav Tzvi Hersh Kaidanover, d. 1712) explains that we thank Hashem for the daily miracles He performs for us without us even knowing. We are all aware of many things that Hashem does to help and protect us, but there are also countless occasions when we are helped in ways we know nothing about. We'll never know about the germs in the air that we do not inhale, or the looming threats that were neutralized before affecting us. We therefore recite Mizmor Le'toda each morning to acknowledge that our debt of gratitude to the Almighty is far greater than what we can imagine. Another reason is that this chapter contains the famous verse, "Ibdu Et Hashem Be'simha," urging us to serve Hashem joyfully. This chapter is meant to put us in a state of genuine Simha (joy) as we begin to recite Pesukeh De'zimra. What's important is not just what we say, but how we say it. If we speak Hashem's praises feeling unhappy, then we are not properly fulfilling our obligation. And so we recite "Ibdu Et Hashem Be'simha" right at the outset of Pesukeh De'zimra to put ourselves in the proper frame of mind for this section of praise. Yet another reason for reciting Mizmor Le'toda is that this recitation serves as our own Korban Toda. In the times of the Bet Ha'mikdash, a person would bring this sacrifice after being saved from a perilous situation – specifically, after being rescued from captivity, after recovering from a serious illness, after a sea voyage, or after traversing a desert. We all experience these situations in various forms, and thus in the absence of the Bet Ha'mikdash, when we are unable to offer this sacrifice, we instead recite Mizmor Le'toda, the chapter which was sung during this offering. For this reason, some Kabbalists maintained that one should stand while reciting Mizmor Le'toda, just as one would stand during the offering of his sacrifice. We, however, follow the practice taught by the Arizal to recite Mizmor Le'toda sitting. We are not actually reenacting the offering of the Korban Toda – as evidenced by the fact that we recite it even on days when this sacrifice could not be brought, such as on Pesach (since this sacrifice included leavened bread). This recitation merely commemorates the sacrifice, and so we do not need to stand. The Shulhan Aruch writes that Mizmor Le'toda should be sung in a pleasant melody. This is not commonly done, and Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv (Jerusalem, 1910-2012) is said to have left unanswered the question of why this is the case. Others suggested different theories to justify the widespread practice not to sing this chapter. Rav Haim Kanievsky (1928-2022) said that the Shulhan Aruch perhaps meant not that this chapter should actually be sung, but rather that it should be recited slowly. Others explain that it should be recited with joy, but not necessarily in a melody. The Hesed La'alafim (Rav Eliezer Papo, 1785-1828) writes that we do not know the correct tune to sing, and so we recite this chapter instead of singing it. These reasons were suggested in defense of the custom not to sing Mizmor Le'toda, but it seems clear that if one can, it is preferable to sing this chapter. Rashi, commenting to the opening verse of Parashat Hayeh-Sara, tells us that "Bat Kuf Ke'bat Chaf" – Sara at the age of 100 was no different from the way she was at age 20. Some have explained this remark as an allusion to two very different chapters of Tehillim that we include in our morning prayer service: Mizmor Le'toda – the 100 th chapter, and La'menase'ah Mizmor Le'David Ya'ancha Hashem – the 20 th chapter. Mizmor Le'toda, as discussed, is a song of thanksgiving, whereas La'menase'ah is a desperate plea for help during times of distress. Rashi's comment alludes to us that Sara Imenu treated "chapter 100" no different than "chapter 20" – meaning, she thanked Hashem for all the goodness He bestowed upon her no less than she begged for help during times of hardship. As important as it is to always turn to Hashem for His assistance and to fill our needs, it is no less important to say "Mizmor Le'toda," to thank Him from the bottom of our hearts for His kindness toward us and all the wonderful blessings in our lives.

In four powerful reminders from Orchos Tzaddikim, Rabbi Wolbe teaches us how to live every single day with awe, humility, and unstoppable growth:Stay in your lane of wonder Remember you are lower than the angels yet infinitely higher than animals. Hashem made you master of the entire physical world — fruit, fish, birds, beasts — and then revealed His deepest secrets to you in the Torah. The only proper response is to walk through life like a humbled servant who has just been crowned king: “How grateful one must be for all of this!”Grow so slowly the Yetzer Hara doesn't even notice The secret to permanent change is tiny, tiny habits. Rabbi Wolbe shares his grandfather's Yom Kippur War story: the IDF flew the plane just inches above the sand to stay under Egyptian radar. “That's how we grow,” he says. If you announce “I'll never speak lashon hara again!” the yetzer hara shoots you down instantly. But if you quietly commit to never switching on one unnecessary light on Shabbos — a tiny blip — the yetzer hara thinks it's just a bird. Once that tiny mitzvah becomes part of your DNA, the ground beneath you rises, the radar rises with it, and suddenly you're flying high without ever having triggered the alarm. “Small step → habit → new you → higher radar → next small step.” Quotable gem: “The yetzer hara has perfect radar for big declarations… but it completely misses the guy crawling under the fence with one tiny improvement.”Invest in real friends (without an agenda) Always do good for others exactly the way you wish they would do good for you — but do it because it's right, not because you'll have a side benefit that they love you back. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts this with a famous self-help book on “how to win friends” that left him disgusted: “That book teaches how to kiss up so people will kiss up to you. That's networking, not friendship.” True brotherhood is loving them for their sake, not yours. “Reveal your deepest secrets only to one in a thousand… but give your kindness to everyone.”Fall in love with the world every single morning Because we see sunrises, rain, flowers, and stars every day, we stop being amazed — and that is the greatest tragedy. Orchos Tzaddikim demands we live as if we were blind from birth and today, for the first time, our eyes opened. “Pretend you just landed from Mars and you've never seen a tulip, a thunderstorm, or a Texas sunset — then look!” Rabbi Wolbe confesses he was “a little selfish” this Shabbos and bought his wife tulips because he personally finds them breathtaking. His plea: “Pull over on the side of the road when you see that sunset. It's Hashem's personal love note to you right now. Don't get used to miracles.”Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 2, 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, #Journey, #Hashem, #Humility, #Gratitude, #Creation, #Genuine, #Friendships, #Brotherhood, #Awe, #DivineArtistry, #SmallSteps, #PersonalGrowth, #Mitzvahs, #Yetzirah, #EvilInclination, #DailyRoutine, #EverydayMiracles, #Familiarity, #DivineLove, #Magnificence, #Gratitude, #KingDavid, #Psalms, #Wonder ★ Support this podcast ★

In four powerful reminders from Orchos Tzaddikim, Rabbi Wolbe teaches us how to live every single day with awe, humility, and unstoppable growth:Stay in your lane of wonder Remember you are lower than the angels yet infinitely higher than animals. Hashem made you master of the entire physical world — fruit, fish, birds, beasts — and then revealed His deepest secrets to you in the Torah. The only proper response is to walk through life like a humbled servant who has just been crowned king: “How grateful one must be for all of this!”Grow so slowly the Yetzer Hara doesn't even notice The secret to permanent change is tiny, tiny habits. Rabbi Wolbe shares his grandfather's Yom Kippur War story: the IDF flew the plane just inches above the sand to stay under Egyptian radar. “That's how we grow,” he says. If you announce “I'll never speak lashon hara again!” the yetzer hara shoots you down instantly. But if you quietly commit to never switching on one unnecessary light on Shabbos — a tiny blip — the yetzer hara thinks it's just a bird. Once that tiny mitzvah becomes part of your DNA, the ground beneath you rises, the radar rises with it, and suddenly you're flying high without ever having triggered the alarm. “Small step → habit → new you → higher radar → next small step.” Quotable gem: “The yetzer hara has perfect radar for big declarations… but it completely misses the guy crawling under the fence with one tiny improvement.”Invest in real friends (without an agenda) Always do good for others exactly the way you wish they would do good for you — but do it because it's right, not because you'll have a side benefit that they love you back. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts this with a famous self-help book on “how to win friends” that left him disgusted: “That book teaches how to kiss up so people will kiss up to you. That's networking, not friendship.” True brotherhood is loving them for their sake, not yours. “Reveal your deepest secrets only to one in a thousand… but give your kindness to everyone.”Fall in love with the world every single morning Because we see sunrises, rain, flowers, and stars every day, we stop being amazed — and that is the greatest tragedy. Orchos Tzaddikim demands we live as if we were blind from birth and today, for the first time, our eyes opened. “Pretend you just landed from Mars and you've never seen a tulip, a thunderstorm, or a Texas sunset — then look!” Rabbi Wolbe confesses he was “a little selfish” this Shabbos and bought his wife tulips because he personally finds them breathtaking. His plea: “Pull over on the side of the road when you see that sunset. It's Hashem's personal love note to you right now. Don't get used to miracles.”Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 2, 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, #Journey, #Hashem, #Humility, #Gratitude, #Creation, #Genuine, #Friendships, #Brotherhood, #Awe, #DivineArtistry, #SmallSteps, #PersonalGrowth, #Mitzvahs, #Yetzirah, #EvilInclination, #DailyRoutine, #EverydayMiracles, #Familiarity, #DivineLove, #Magnificence, #Gratitude, #KingDavid, #Psalms, #Wonder ★ Support this podcast ★

Yud-Beis Kislev (18:24)

When Rivka told Yaakov to go to the house of Lavan and find a wife, she said, " וְיָשַׁבְתָּ עִמּוֹ יָמִים אֲחָדִים ," that he should stay there for yamim achadim, which is generally translated as "a short time," until his brother's anger would subside, and then she would call for him to come back. When Yaakov later told Lavan that he would work for seven years to marry Rachel, Rashi says that these are the yamim achadim that Rivka was referring to. The question is, why would Rivka want Yaakov to be in such a bad spiritual environment with Lavan for such a long time? Furthermore, when Yaakov was working during those seven years, the Torah says they felt like yamim achadim, a short time, because of his love for her. Seemingly, if someone is so eager to get married, every day should feel like an eternity, not yamim achadim. Rabbi Menashe Reisman brought a beautiful explanation in the name of Rabbi Michal Forshlager to answer these questions. Rivka wanted to give Yaakov the greatest tool that would ensure that he would always be happy in any circumstance that he might find himself in. When a person is suffering from a problem in life, it is usually because the problem has lasted for a long time. Problems that only last a short amount of time are much easier to deal with. If someone is older and not married and speaks about his difficulty, he will usually say, "I have been trying for so many years and nothing works out." But if a person would live one day at a time, his quality of life would improve tremendously. Every day is a new day, with endless possibilities of what could happen. If a person wakes up in the morning believing that today could easily be the day of his salvation, it gives him strength and courage. What was yesterday has nothing to do with today. The difficulty begins when a person connects today with all the past days and looks at everything as one long, unbearable stretch. The same is true with worry. Most worry is about the future, not the present. Right now, a person is still alive, still taken care of, and still standing. His suffering comes from thinking about what might be tomorrow. If he would only focus on today, on what he already has and on what might happen to bring salvation, he would be far happier. This is what Rivka was telling Yaakov about the house of Lavan. He should be there for yamim achadim, literally, one day at a time. She knew it would be hard for him, and she gave him the secret of how to survive it. Even when Yaakov agreed to work for seven years, that did not mean he accepted that it must be seven full years. It meant seven years worth of work. If Yaakov would somehow get money, he could pay Lavan and leave immediately. Just as an eved ivri who is supposed to work six years can be freed early if his master releases him, so too Yaakov could get out at any time if Hashem willed it. A person can also pray that Hashem put it into someone's heart to help him, or that he find a way out sooner than expected. When a person knows that he can be helped today, it gives him great strength. If someone is told he must undergo treatment for a certain amount of time or remain in the hospital for a certain amount of time, he can ease so much of his pain by remembering that with Hashem, nothing has to be the way people say. The first treatment can go so well that no further treatment is needed. What was supposed to be two weeks can become two days. Even though Yosef was in prison for twelve years, he remained in good spirits, knowing that any day he could be released. And although Yaakov seemed to have such a difficult time in Lavan's house, being cheated and taken advantage of again and again, the Torah testifies - וַיָּבוֹא יַעֲקֹב שָׁלֵם -that he left whole, in every way, physically, financially, and spiritually. Lavan was never able to truly harm him. Everything happened exactly as Hashem wanted, and it was all for Yaakov's benefit. A person's bitachon gives him strength every single day of his life. And when it says that the seven years Yaakov worked for Rachel were yamim achadim because of his love for her, Rav Michal explained that it means that even though Yaakov loved Rachel deeply and wanted to marry her, because he looked at each day by itself and thought, "Maybe today will be the day," the time passed quickly. In the same way, Yaakov was able to survive his long stay with Lavan because Rivka told him she would send for him when it was time to come home. Each day, Yaakov could tell himself, "Maybe today is my last day here." Yeshuat Hashem is keheref ayin. A person can be saved today. If a person learns to live today properly, with real bitachon, he will always have the strength and courage to be happy and productive in life.

Yud-Alef Kislev (23:30)

In this powerful Mussar Master Class (Day 106), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches three vital daily remembrances from Orchos Tzaddikim:Regularly seek solitude (hitbodedut) — most interpersonal sins (lashon hara, flattery, mockery, arrogance) only happen in company. Alone time protects us from sin and opens the door to intimate conversation with Hashem in nature, gratitude, confession, and heartfelt prayer.Remember how many hidden miracles Hashem performs for us every single day — accidents we narrowly missed, flights we were delayed for, floods we escaped, dangers we never even knew existed. Hashem is constantly shielding us in ways we will never fully know until the World to Come.All money and success is a temporary deposit from Hashem — He can give or take it in a single moment. Therefore, never be arrogant about wealth, never mock the poor, never refuse to repay debts or return stolen items joyfully, and always pray that Hashem guide you to use “His money” exactly the way He wants.The class is filled with awe-inspiring stories: the rabbi whose insistence on retrieving his tefillin delayed the second 9/11 plane and saved thousands of lives, the man who arrogantly declared “Hashem can never take my money” and lost it — then regained it — overnight, and the breathtaking miracles hidden inside a single leaf or the human body.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 30, 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, #Solitude, #Self-reflection, #Hitbodedut, #Gratitude, #Mindfulness, #Trust, #Wealth, #Sins, #Slander, #Adultery, #Falsehoods, #Humility, #Faith, #Omnipotence, #Hardships, #Mercy, #Adversities, #Material, #Wealth ★ Support this podcast ★

The Jewish response to elections – whether the shocking victory of an openly anti-Semitic mayor in New York City or any political upheaval throughout history – must be twofold: before the vote, we exercise full hishtadlut (effort) by voting, cultivating goodwill with leaders, and supporting candidates who protect Jewish safety (as our Sages sent gifts to Caesar and Rabbi Akiva petitioned Rome); after the vote, we immediately pivot to total bitachon, recognizing that the final outcome is 100 % Hashem's decree, often sent as a wake-up call that we have grown too comfortable in galut. History repeats itself: German Jews declared Berlin their Jerusalem, Polish Jews called Poland “Polin – here we shall dwell,” and today many American Jews act as if the United States is the final stop; every time we forget we are in exile, Hashem sends a jolt – sometimes from the left, sometimes from the right – to remind us that no political party, president, or democracy is our ultimate protector.The comforting truth is that these “potches” (divine smacks) are acts of love meant to push us back toward our mission: to be a light unto the nations wherever we are, and ultimately to yearn for and move toward Yerushalayim. When we respond correctly – by increasing Torah, tefillah, teshuvah, and authentic Jewish pride – the bitterness miraculously turns sweet, just as October 7th produced hundreds of thousands of newly observant Jews and countless stories of open miracles among the hostages. The message is clear: get comfortable being uncomfortable in galut, stop putting ultimate faith in any human leader or system, and remember that only the almighy (Hakadosh Baruch Hu) runs the world – and He is nudging us home.Engage with us by sharing your questions, and we look forward to addressing them in future episodes, fostering a more interactive experience for our audience by submitting your questions to unboxing@torchweb.org_____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by the Nagel Family.This Episode (#25) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast is dedicated in honor of The Nagel WeddingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) on November 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 25, 2025_____________Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, TexasASK! To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to unboxing@torchweb.orgRabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additionally, Rabbi Nagel serves as the Senior Rabbi at Heimish of Houston and has been delivering the Daf Yomi (Daily Folio of Talmud) for TORCH since 2003. Rabbi Nagel is the Head of the Court for Jewish Divorce and actively serves as a member of the Houston Beis Din.Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe serves as the Director of TORCH since 2005._____________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 Yaakov Nagel:Daf Yomi Podcast - https://linktr.ee/DafYomiPodcastUnboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/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!_____________#RabbiNagel, #RabbiWolbe, #Jews, #Politics, #Unboxing, #Perspective, #Engagement, #Integration, #Safety, #Mobility, #FreeWill, #Effort, #Exile, #Divine ★ Support this podcast ★

In this lively Ask Away session, Rabbi Wolbe clarified that the Talmudic category of “idolater” (akum) in kosher laws refers to any non-Jew who does not share our Torah values and meticulous concern for kashrut – today that includes Muslims, Christians, atheists, etc. – not just literal idol-worshippers; the laws were never about hating non-Jews but about protecting Jewish standards and limiting excessive social intimacy. He also explained that giving flowers to one's wife (or girlfriend when seriously dating toward marriage) is not only permitted but strongly encouraged by the Rambam, Shulchan Aruch, Rav Moshe Feinstein, and virtually all contemporary Poskim – because it creates shalom bayit and expresses love; flowers are never placed on Jewish graves (we use stones to symbolize permanence of the soul), but for a living spouse they are a beautiful, halachically praised gift that says “I thought about you.”On deeper topics, Rabbi Wolbe taught that true bitachon and saying “Gam zu l'tovah” do not cancel out tears or heartfelt prayer – tears are always welcome and open Heaven's gates; bitachon simply means we reaffirm that even the pain is ultimately for our good. He addressed inter-movement rabbinic courts by explaining that authentic halachic authority requires (1) belief that the Torah is divine and (2) personal observance of that Torah – without those foundations, rulings lack legitimacy in traditional Judaism. Finally, he stressed that flying (or any long-distance travel) on Shabbat is prohibited due to multiple biblical and rabbinic violations, and Shabbat is meant for spiritual connection, not vacation-style activities like swimming or horseback riding.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 23, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 30, 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, #Diversity, #Spirituality, #Labels, #Faith, #Prayer, #PositiveAffirmations, #Anxiety, #Trust, #Tears, #Kindness, #Shabbat, #Israel, #Resilience, #Vibrancy, #Relationships, #Marriage ★ Support this podcast ★

In this powerful Mussar Master Class (Day 106), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches three vital daily remembrances from Orchos Tzaddikim:Regularly seek solitude (hitbodedut) — most interpersonal sins (lashon hara, flattery, mockery, arrogance) only happen in company. Alone time protects us from sin and opens the door to intimate conversation with Hashem in nature, gratitude, confession, and heartfelt prayer.Remember how many hidden miracles Hashem performs for us every single day — accidents we narrowly missed, flights we were delayed for, floods we escaped, dangers we never even knew existed. Hashem is constantly shielding us in ways we will never fully know until the World to Come.All money and success is a temporary deposit from Hashem — He can give or take it in a single moment. Therefore, never be arrogant about wealth, never mock the poor, never refuse to repay debts or return stolen items joyfully, and always pray that Hashem guide you to use “His money” exactly the way He wants.The class is filled with awe-inspiring stories: the rabbi whose insistence on retrieving his tefillin delayed the second 9/11 plane and saved thousands of lives, the man who arrogantly declared “Hashem can never take my money” and lost it — then regained it — overnight, and the breathtaking miracles hidden inside a single leaf or the human body.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 30, 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, #Solitude, #Self-reflection, #Hitbodedut, #Gratitude, #Mindfulness, #Trust, #Wealth, #Sins, #Slander, #Adultery, #Falsehoods, #Humility, #Faith, #Omnipotence, #Hardships, #Mercy, #Adversities, #Material, #Wealth ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we are joined with Rabbi Daniel Rowe to unpack one of the most sensitive and misunderstood subjects in Torah: our ongoing relationship with Eisav and Yishmael. Are they eternal enemies, potential partners, or something more complex? Building on the theme from “Becoming a Nation of Priests” with Rabbi Yaakov Klein, Rabbi Rowe traces how the Torah and Chazal frame these two great civilizations as spiritual “cousins” whose roles are woven into creation itself. We explore how Christianity and Islam shifted the world from pagan cruelty toward a more Noahide, God-centered morality, why Jews are both uniquely loved and uniquely hated, and how antisemitism often masks a warped expectation that we live up to our mission. If you've ever wondered how to make sense of global events, Jewish destiny, and our role within these ancient relationships, this conversation will give you a framework that changes the way you see history and the present moment.Continue learning from Rabbi Daniel Rowe.·         You can follow his shiurim and lectures on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@RabbiDanielRowe·         And stay connected to his ongoing Torah thoughts on Instagram: instagram.com/rabbidanielroweJoin the Conversation! Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.

In the beginning of this week's parashah, Vayetzei, Yaakov dreamed of angels going up and down a ladder. The Ramban explains that Hashem was teaching Yaakov about His absolute involvement in everything that takes place in this world. Even when Hashem sends His messengers, the angels, to act in this world, they first go up to Him after seeing their mission and ask exactly what He wants done. Only afterward do they come back down and carry out His will. Nothing happens on its own. Even what people do to us is never truly in their hands. It is only what Hashem wants that can come to pass. A man complained to me that someone had stolen his customer in business, and he could not stop thinking about it. I told him that no human being has the power to take away a customer from another person. If it happened, it was only because Hashem willed it. Even though people have free will, they cannot use that free will to harm another person unless it is decreed by Hashem. When Lavan chased Yaakov and caught up with him, he said, "I have the power to harm you, but the G-d of your father came to me last night and warned me not to touch you." His words contradict themselves. On the one hand, he claims he has the power to harm Yaakov. In the same breath, he admits that Hashem is the One who controls what he can and cannot do. The Be'er HaParashah brings an explanation from Rav Shalom Schwadron on this pasuk, based on a story told by the Alter of Novardok about his own youth. As a young boy, he was learning in an out-of-town yeshivah when his parents sent word that he must come home urgently. He did not have enough money to buy a train ticket. Still, he believed with complete bitachon that Hashem would help him. He traveled for several days until he reached the train station. There, he sat down on a bench, opened his Gemara, and waited for Hashem's salvation. There were still a few hours before the train was scheduled to depart. At one point, a religious Jew arrived and saw the boy sitting and learning. He was thrilled to find another Jew immersed in Torah. He struck up a conversation and invited the boy to sit next to him on the train so they could learn together during the journey. The boy replied that he would love to, but he did not have a ticket. The man told him he had better buy one quickly, because the train would be leaving in a short time. The boy calmly explained that he had no money, but he had complete trust that Hashem would help him. The man was stunned. "You traveled all this way without money for a ticket?" he said. "That's not bitachon, that's foolishness. You can't buy a ticket with faith. You need money." With that, the man shook his head and boarded the train. Time passed. The train was now only minutes from departure. A final boarding call was announced. The boy continued sitting and learning, calm and unshaken. Then, just moments before the train was about to leave, another Jew came running into the station, out of breath and afraid he had missed it. He noticed the yeshivah boy still sitting on the bench and asked him why he was not boarding. When he heard that the boy had no money for a ticket, the man immediately said, "If you need a ticket, I'll gladly buy you one." He rushed to the counter, purchased the ticket, and handed it to the boy. Together, they boarded the train just as the doors closed. The boy thanked the kind Jew for the ticket, and he thanked Hashem for sending him at the final moment. As he looked for a seat, he suddenly saw that first religious man staring at him in disbelief. "How did you get a ticket?" the man asked. The boy told him what had happened and quoted the Midrash that says, "Whoever trusts in Hashem, Hashem will save him." The man shook his head. "If that fellow hadn't come at the last second, you'd still be sitting there. Don't tell me your bitachon helped you. It was that man who saved you." But the truth was the opposite. It was precisely because of the boy's bitachon that Hashem sent that man at the final moment to help him. So too with Lavan. He told Yaakov, "I could have harmed you, but there was just one small problem. At the last second, Hashem told me not to." That means he never had any control. No human being in this world has any power on his own. No one can hurt us, and no one can help us, unless Hashem decrees it. The more clearly we internalize this truth, the more peaceful and tranquil our lives will become. Shabbat Shalom

One may answer "Amen" to a Beracha that he hears while reciting Pesukeh De'zimra in the morning. Thus, for example, if one finished reciting Baruch She'amar – the introductory blessing to Pesukeh De'zimra – and then hears the Hazzan conclude Baruch She'amar ("Baruch Ata Hashem Melech Mehulal Be'tishbahot"), he answers "Amen." For that matter, if one hears the person next to him conclude Baruch She'amar after he had finished the blessing, then he answers "Amen." This applies to any Beracha, such as if a person hears someone who had arrived late reciting the Beracha over the Tallit of Tefillin. However, a number of Poskim (including the Ben Ish Hai and Hesed La'alafim) maintain that one may not answer "Amen" to a Beracha after he concluded Baruch She'amar unless he had proceeded to Mizmor Le'toda, the first chapter recited after Baruch She'amar. After all, Baruch She'amar is, as mentioned, the introductory blessing to Pesukeh De'zimra. Seemingly, then, just as one may not make any interruption after reciting a blessing over food before eating some of the food, one must likewise proceed immediately to Pesukeh De'zimra after reciting Baruch She'amar, without any interruption. Hacham Ovadia Yosef disagrees with this position, and maintains that one may answer "Amen" to a Beracha he hears after Baruch She'amar even before he began reciting Mizmor Le'toda. He concedes, however, that one should certainly try not to pause between the end of Baruch She'amar and Mizmor Le'toda so that no such interruption will be necessary. If one recites Baruch She'amar together with the Hazzan, and he concludes the blessing with the Hazzan, then he does answer "Amen" to the Hazzan's blessing, as this would give the appearance of answering "Amen" to his own Beracha, which is not permitted. This is true generally, as well – whenever one hears somebody finish a Beracha just as he finishes a Beracha, he does not answer "Amen," so as not to give the impression that he answers "Amen" to his own blessing. It is worth emphasizing in this context that Halacha forbids speaking after the recitation of Baruch She'amar, through the end of the Amida. Actually, as speaking is forbidden between the Amida and "Ana" and "Le'David," one may not talk at all until the end of those prayers. For matters involving a Misva, one may speak after Yishtabah, before beginning the Beracha of "Yoser Or." But general conversation is strictly forbidden from Baruch She'amar until after "Ana" and "Le'David." Certainly, this is a difficult Halacha for many to observe. We are a social community, and socializing and friendly conversation is undoubtedly something that we strongly encourage. In fact, for many, seeing friends is a motivation to come to the synagogue, and there is nothing wrong with that. Nevertheless, our primary reason for coming must be to pray properly, to spend time focusing on our relationship with Hashem through Tefilla. We must therefore delay our conversations until after the prayer service, and give the Tefilla and attention and respect that it deserves and that Halacha requires. Summary: One may not speak from Baruch She'amar through the end of "Ana Le'David" after the Amida. If one hears a Beracha while he recites Pesukeh De'zimra, he may answer "Amen." If one recites Baruch She'amar with the Hazzan, and ends the blessing at the same time as the Hazzan, then he does not answer "Amen." If, however, he completed Baruch She'amar before the Hazzan, then he answers "Amen." This applies even if he had yet to begin Mizmor Le'toda, but preferably one should recite Mizmor Le'toda immediately after completing Baruch She'amar, without any pause.

Hezbollah Regeneration Efforts and the Fallout from a Targeted Beirut Strike — David Daoud, Bill Roggio — David Daoud reports that Israel killed Hezbollah's top military commander, Hashem Safieddine, in Beirut, marking an expansion of Israeli operations into the Lebanese capital. This escalation reflects Hezbollah's comprehensive regeneration efforts—including receiving billions in funding from Iran and developing domestic drone production capabilities—which are outpacing Israeli degradation operations. Hezbollah and Hamas view Russia's success in Ukraine as strategically beneficial because it diminishes American global hegemony.