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Ya'akov's flight away from his father-in-law in Genesis 31-32 and Israel's exodus from Mitzraim (Egypt) foreshadow the work of Messiah Yeshua (Christ Jesus). This study examines James 4 and related passages to see God's consistent plan of transformation, drawing near to believers and calling them to holiness. The New Covenant's promise of internal change, includes God's writing His Torah on hearts. The Word and the Spirit enable believers to live as a "kingdom of priests" dedicated to Heaven's purposes.
Dealing with the idea of “Waiting, Seeking, and Being strong,” Rabbi Steve Berkson takes us to Isaiah chapter 51 to provide a glimpse of what “His world” will look like. For one thing, “His world” will include those who “pursue righteousness” (vs 1). For another, “His world” will be filled with the Light of His Torah (vs 4). To enter “His world,” we must have expectancy—a hope for all that Yah has promised to those who are His. Then, moving into the Psalms, Rabbi Berkson shows us the one verse that could solve all our fear and anxiety problems. From the Psalms, we move to Jeremiah, chapter 30, where we learn a little about the two houses, Judah and Israel, and that the doctrine of Replacement Theology has no standing in Scripture. Guard. Walk. Do. Sounds like covenant again, right? Rabbi Berkson takes us to Leviticus chapter 26 and shows us the promise of peace in His world through the words of the Creator. Then on to the prophet Micah chapter 4, as Yahweh says His mountain will be above all mountains and His house will be there, from where the Torah will go out to judge and teach all. In this section, Rabbi Berkson has a very different thought on verse 5 that you have probably never heard before. To learn more about MTOI, visit our website, https://mtoi.org. https://www.facebook.com/mtoiworldwide https://www.instagram.com/mtoi_worldwide https://www.tiktok.com/@mtoi_worldwide You can contact MTOI by emailing us at admin@mtoi.org or calling 423-250-3020. Join us for Shabbat Services and Torah Study LIVE, streamed on our website, mtoi.org, YouTube, and Rumble every Saturday at 1:15 p.m. and every Friday for Torah Study Live Stream at 7:30 p.m. Eastern time.
The descendants of Abraham once again found themselves drawn to a mountain to hear the word of the Lord. But this time, the incarnate Son of God was seated before them—audibly speaking, teaching, and sharing His Torah. Words that are commonplace in Christianity today fell like nuclear bombs, transforming the hearts and minds of the sons and daughters of Abraham gathered there.
How do the Old and New Testament commands work together? Some in Christianity teach that the Torah was fulfilled and thus done away with at the cross. Others teach that all believers in Jesus are required to keep all the commandments listed in the various Covenants listed in Scripture. As we attempt to get on MISSION with Christ we must combat our own legalistic approach to the calling. Yet the commands of God aren't legalistic, they are for life. Are the 10 commandments abolished in the New Testament, or are they upheld? As Jesus prepares to give His Torah teaching at the Sermon on the Mount what did he model and teach concerning the 10 commandments?
It is incumbent upon parents to raise their children well, but how exactly do you do that? Babies are not born clutching parenting manuals. This is especially problematic for us Jews. We must raise our children to be upstanding, productive, stable, and healthy adults like all other parents. However, we have an additional responsibility: we must raise our children to be good Jews too. We must raise our children with a deep connection with the Almighty and His Torah. We must raise them with an awareness of their Jewish identity and a sense of mission and responsibility. How do we do that? That is a question that many young parents - and even veteran parents - struggle with. In this podcast, the first of a series of two, we will offer some answers. These are not specific answers to specific parenting dilemmas, rather they are heuristics that apply across the board in parenting. This podcast not be misconstrued as a claim of expertise or any special parenting ability. I am simply sharing ideas that are very well accepted and recognized as true.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★
Hashem speaks to us all the time. We need to be aware and keep our eyes and ears open for His messages. Sometimes a person needs a yeshuah and seeks something to improve on as a zechut . It's possible that Hashem will convey what he needs to work on in a subtle way, but he must be vigilant and on the lookout for the message. A 7th-grade rebbe shared a story about a student in his class who struggled to grasp even the basics. The more the rebbe tried to explain, the less it seemed the student understood. After Pesach last year, the class began learning a new masechet , and suddenly, the boy started understanding everything. Not only that, he retained all that he learned and quickly became one of the top students in the class. The change was astonishing, happening in such a short time. The rebbe's amazement did not go unnoticed, and the boy explained what had led to the transformation. He said, "A few weeks ago, rebbe told us about the holy tanna Matyah ben Charash, who faced a great test in guarding his eyes. He was even willing to lose his eyesight to avoid sinning. Hashem performed a miracle for him and restored his sight. "I thought to myself, I also need to safeguard my eyes. Across from the bus stop where I wait every morning is a public school, and I usually watch the students, including the girls who dress immodestly. After rebbe mentioned Matyah ben Charash, I decided to guard my eyes. Every day when they arrive, I look down and pray to Hashem to enlighten my eyes in His Torah and help me remember what I learn. Hashem answered my request. Since then, I've been able to understand and remember everything." This boy needed help with his learning, and Hashem subtly hinted to him what he needed to do to merit it—through the rebbe's words about shemirat enayim . The boy understood the message and experienced an incredible yeshuah . Sometimes Hashem gives us exactly the chizuk we need. A man shared that he became very involved in encouraging others and giving chizuk . Baruch Hashem, he was good at it and helped many people. However, recently, he began to have second thoughts. The work was consuming so much of his time, sometimes keeping him on the phone with people for over half an hour. He wondered if he should scale back and focus more on other areas of avodat Hashem , including his own learning. That very day, as he was grappling with these thoughts, he came across a piece in a book on emunah that spoke directly to his dilemma. The book quoted the Chafetz Chaim, who emphasized how much Hashem values those who bring chizuk to others. The Chafetz Chaim compared it to a father whose children are sad, saying that such a father would feel immense hakarat hatov toward anyone who brings joy to his children. The man felt reassured that he was on the right path. That night, as part of his routine, he read two halachot from the Sefer Chafetz Chaim and a paragraph of mussar from the back of the sefer . To his amazement, the very same idea he had read earlier in the book on emunah appeared in the mussar section of the Sefer Chafetz Chaim that night. It was Hashem who was showing him the same chizuk twice in one day to reinforce the message. The encouragement he needed to continue his avodat hakodesh was delivered clearly and powerfully. Hashem speaks to us all the time. If we're on the lookout, we will catch His messages.
In this podcast we return to Genesis 9 and Noah's planting a vineyard and then getting drunk. One asks why this story was highlighted in God's TORAH תּוֹרָה, His instruction? And then what about the aftermath when his son Ham sees Noah drunk and naked in the tent. What is going on? This is one of several instances where the Lord our God, Yahvay יהוה, does not give us clear precise understanding. Scholarship is all over the map in providing reasonable commentary on this event. One concludes that there is no clear answer to all this. One Jewish scholar, Leon Kass, in his Genesis commentary offers his view. Kass seems to think this is all about family. Ham brought shame upon his dad and over and over again TORAH תּוֹרָה, Yahvay's יהוה instruction, has a lot to say about family. Kass notes that in Genesis chapters 1-11 that this has nothing to do with the Hebrews or Judaism. So this event in Genesis 9 is seemingly to teach all mankind. Kass makes a superb added idea as to the purpose of this story. But, once again, there are many other ideas and opinions. Kass' opinion, however, makes a lot of sense as you will see as you join us in this study. We will also come to Genesis 10 and come face to face with the notorious Nimrod. We are taught that Nimrod was pure evil was the guy who had the Tower of Babel built. But, as we will see all this is pure fantasy. These are legends made up by the rabbis in Rabbinic Judaism. These legends then “slid easily” into the church as well and not we are teaching the Bible and pushing that legends and made up rabbinic views are truth. They are not. So, this lesson is quite important to study and consider the truth behind the word of God and the character of Nimrod and what the Bible says about him and not some rabbi who made up some fictional account since to that rabbi it seemed to fit his agenda or view. We can not and should not teach that someone's opinion or made up views are truth. That is why I focus on teaching the Torah in its historical context. We must get at what God's original intentions were when He inspired Moses to write His Torah. We need to focus on the words of our Lord and our God when He said … So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, "If you continue (the Greek is MENO G3306 – it has the idea of relying or persevering) in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." (Joh 8:31-32) Rev. Ferret - Who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8qth6w4e56oub9js1w1gu/BackgrndTeacher-mar-25-2020.pdf?rlkey=f14fr2wmde5fezjmnrny8cycl&dl=0
Across the world and in many ancient and modern cultures one finds stories of the ancient flood. Some are similar to the Biblical account. A credible scholarly website is “Answers in Genesis.” One can find an article at this website entitled, “Flood Legends.” Here's the link to this article - https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/ In this article it states that … “Did you know that stories about a worldwide flood are found in historic records all over the world? According to Dr. Duane Gish in his popular book, “Dinosaurs by Design,” there are more than 270 such stories, most of which share a common theme and similar characters. So many flood stories with such similarities surely come from the Flood of Noah's day.” (White, Dr. Monty. “Flood Legends: The Significance of a World of Stories Based on Truth.” AnswersinGenesis. Nov. 7, 2024. https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/) It is not surprising that this fact is used to conclude that the flood must have been worldwide; the flood we know so well in the Bible covered the whole earth. The problem is there is NO scientific evidence that conclusively shows the flood was worldwide. That it is worldwide is based many times upon the English translation of the Bible without taking into account the original Hebrew. It only makes sense that the flood being worldwide can not be based upon the flood legends and stories that are found worldwide and in many diverse cultures. The reason is simple as is stated in the article found at “Answers in Genesis.” “The reason for these flood stories is not difficult to understand. When we turn to the history book of the universe, the Bible, we learn that Noah's descendants stayed together for approximately 100 years, until God confused their languages at Babel (Genesis 11:1–9). As these people moved away from Babel, their descendants formed nations based primarily on the languages they shared in common. Through those languages, the story of the Flood was shared, until it became embedded in their cultural history.” (White, Dr. Monty. “Flood Legends: The Significance of a World of Stories Based on Truth.” AnswersinGenesis. Nov. 7, 2024. https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/) The article at “Answers in Genesis” included a great chart. It shows the widespread belief in an ancient flood among many ancient cultures. (White, Dr. Monty. “Flood Legends: The Significance of a World of Stories Based on Truth.” AnswersinGenesis. Nov. 7, 2024. https://answersingenesis.org/the-flood/flood-legends/flood-legends/) The Bible says there were only 8 people left after the flood. Moreover, the presence of humankind was regulated to the area of Noah's day. Humankind was not the global in Genesis 6. Humankind was just beginning to expand and the flood destroyed that expansion. God started all over again with Noah and his family. Thus, the story of the flood was passed down from generation to generation from one family. Humankind expanded and it spread across the earth along with the flood story. So it is not surprising that we see the widespread flood legends across the world and that these legends have similar concepts as in the Bible but have also changed as per the culture and perspectives of each tribe and group and nation. So, this does not prove the flood covered the entire earth. It shows that the real historical event of the flood in Genesis was passed down to generation to generation among humankind as it spread and expanded across the world. The issue however is not if the flood was global or local. I find this discussion rather pointless and seemingly the wrong thing to focus on. For me it is taking our eyes off the real question which is “why the flood – what was its purpose?” Come and join us in lesson 20. This lesson along with lesson 19 tries to get at this more critical question. Here's the link to Lesson 19 - https://lightofmenorah.podbean.com/e/genensis-19-gen-65-821-and-john-529-the-flood-testifies-of-yeshua/?token=37a93cda3394b88790b3d0359cde7ba7 When we focus on this question we find it has a lot to do with Yeshua and the sacrifice of the Lamb of God and the Cross and the Gospel. This is the big picture and arguing over global or local flood to me clouds the real issue the Lord is trying to teach us in His TORAH which means “teaching” and not law. Rev. Ferret - Who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8qth6w4e56oub9js1w1gu/BackgrndTeacher-mar-25-2020.pdf?rlkey=f14fr2wmde5fezjmnrny8cycl&dl=0
This week, because of the Fall Holy Days, and as we near the conclusion of the Torah cycle, Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa fellowship elected to take a look at a double-parsha; first, Vayelekh (Deuteronomy chapter 31) and then Ha'azinu (chapter 32) - where Moses begins to wrap up his final instructions to 'kol Israel.' First, he reminds them about the coming conquest of the land, that Yohushua/Joshua will lead them, and to "be strong and of good courage." The Erev Shabbat reading begins there, and continues with what rabbinic Judaism calls the final (613th) 'mitzvah' in His Torah, to "write out this song," a.k.a. the second 'Song of Moses,' which is the heart of the next chapter, and parsha Ha'azinu: https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SSM-9-27-24-Vayelekh-Ha-azinu-teaching-podcast-xx.mp3 The Sabbath Day midrash examines a contrast: Moses addressed a people who were about to get a new leader, and finally enter and then begin the battle for their long-promised land. We currently have no leader, and are evidently closer to losing a land than entering it, although there are certainly battles ahead, one way or another. Which is where that second song comes in: heaven and earth are His witnesses, and the song is as well. A witness AGAINST the 'children of Israel.' But the parallels then and now are stark, too. He has been "roused to jealousy," with a thing that He calls a 'no-god.' There's provocation from a "vile nation," and they have become a nation void of counsel, with "no understanding in them." When you compare the main news stories today, it's impossible to deny that judgment has been EARNED. But this is where the 'plot thickens.' The prophet YermeYahu, or Jeremiah, is told no less than three times, don't even pray for those people that were about to see judgment, at the hand of Nebuchadnezzar. Which certainly raises a fair question. And the choice. Regular WARNING: We are in - at best - dangerous times. Particularly so for those who walk in rebellion. This is yet another reading in the continuing series of what you will certainly NOT hear in sun-god-day school. Vayelekh and Ha'azinu: "Voided Covenant, or Re-Grafting? Either way - it is a CHOICE!" https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/WT-CooH-10-5-24-Vayelekh-Ha-azinu-Covenant-is-it-VOID-or-re-grafted-It-is-a-CHOICE-regardless-podcast-xxx.mp3 The combined two-part teaching is here:
We are now in our special Rosh Hashanah Musaf series. We up to our 9th pasuk of Zichronot , a pasuk that really stirs the heart- Yirmiyah 31,19, where Hashem says, הֲבֵן֩ יַקִּ֨יר לִ֜י אֶפְרַ֗יִם אִ֚ם יֶ֣לֶד שַׁעֲשֻׁעִ֔ים כִּֽי־מִדֵּ֤י דַבְּרִי֙ בּ֔וֹ זָכֹ֥ר אֶזְכְּרֶ֖נּוּ ע֑וֹד עַל־כֵּ֗ן הָמ֤וּ מֵעַי֙ ל֔וֹ רַחֵ֥ם אֲֽרַחֲמֶ֖נּוּ נְאֻם־יְהֹוָֽה׃ My dear son Efraim (referring to the Jewish people) He is a child of My delight. When I speak about him, I mention him again . Therefore, My insides are stirring. Mercy will have mercy upon him, Ne'um Hashem. The Midrash Tanhuma in Tetzaveh chapter one, tells us, When is a child dear to his father? In the days of old (and maybe for some, more recently) fathers did not really connect with their children while they were infants. Once they started to talk, they would start talking and connecting with them, at about 3-4 years old. So too, Hashem says, I look at this child like a father who has a son that he enjoys playing with and starts to connect to him. 'That's how I look at the Jewish people.' This refers to Hashem treating us as children throughout our history. The midrash in Batei Midrashot , a collection of midrashim , says that Hashem treated us like a child from the beginning. He took us on the clouds of glory, like the famous mashal of Rashi, of a father walking around with his son on his shoulders. Every step of the way, Hashem treated us like His only child. The Chida in sefer Rosh David in Parashat Behar says this pasuk of Ben Yakir Li Efraim, brings out the concept that we are children of Hashem. A child can never become a non-child. A marriage, heaven forbid, can end in a divorce, but the parent-child relationship is always there. A child can always come back. That is the special love that Hashem has for us. What does it mean, When I speak about them, I continue to mention them? The Chida in sefer Nachal Kedomim in Bamidbar 8,19 tells us there is a pasuk where Hashem mentions the Jewish people five times in one pasuk, to show how much He loves them. He mentions them the amount of times of Hamisha Humshei Torah (this is brought down in Rashi) and the Chida says that when someone dislikes somebody, he can't even mention their name. But when you like somebody, you keep saying their name. Just saying someone's name can be a term of endearment. There are people that are careful not to call another woman by their first name because that in itself is an endearment. There are offices where they're careful to say Mrs Cohen not , Hi, Shirley. There's something about mentioning someone's first name, that suggests a connection. So Hashem says, I'm talking about the Jewish people, I could just say ' them ,' but I don't want to say ' them .' I want to keep on saying Yisrael , Yisrael …I love them so much. I just love saying their name. The Chatam Sofer offers a very beautiful thought, another diyuk in this pasuk ( the more we understand the pasuk, the more we arouse ourselves and our prayers are better). He asks, Why the double terminology? מִדֵּ֤י דַבְּרִי֙ בּ֔וֹ זָכֹ֥ר אֶזְכְּרֶ֖נּוּ / Remember , I will remember him again, רַחֵ֥ם אֲֽרַחֲמֶ֖נּוּ I have mercy on him. I'll have mercy on him. Why the double Lashon ? The Chatam Sofer, in his sefer Torat Moshe on Rosh Hashanah, cites the Zohar that there are two days of Rosh Hashanah. The first day is a stricter judgment, which is really for the sadikim who can get by on their own. The second day is for the people that can't really get by their own. They're necessary as part of the larger picture. We could have a great Sadik but he needs 20 students. So the Sadik is judged on day one but the students are judged on day two because we need them there to create the class (this a simple mashal I'm using to make the point). When Hashem judges us, He looks at everyone on the first day, and says, I think that person would do better on the second day. That's what means zachor ezkerenu. Remember, I'll remember. It means I'll save him for tomorrow . And there's a double mercy because I'm having mercy on him on day one by deciding to judge him on day two when he can have more mercy. This shows how Hashem wants us to pass this test. Finally, the Chafetz Chaim, in his sefer Chomat HaDaat chapter eleven where he is bothered by the wording of the pasuk- Haben yakir li efraim/For him, he's my beloved one , Im Yeled Sha'ashu'im / If he a child of my delight Why does it say If ? What does that mean? To explain, thr Chafetz Chaim gives a mashal of a great rabbi who came to a a town. He's 80 years old, and he meets a young man, thats about 30. And he says, " Come pour some wine for this boy ." And they ask him, " You're a great rabbi, you're a gadol hador. Why are you getting so excited about this young man?" And he says, " This young man is my student. I see how great he became. I'm so excited with my student. I taught him so much. We learn together and I love him! The Chafetz Chaim says the same is true with us. Who is our teacher? We say every single day, Hamelamed Torah L'AmoYisrael . God taught us the Torah . Not only that, as we're learning Torah, God's talking with us. The Chafetz Chaim says, that is what it means that Hakadosh Baruch Hu says, " He's My beloved son. " When? Im Yeled Sha'ashu'im. If he's the son of My Torah. The Torah is called Sha'ashu'im . David Hamelech says it's a delight . It says the Torah is called God's plaything . God's delight . So when a person learns Torah, yes, he does other mitzvot, but God says, I am the One that taught him the Torah. I'm learning with him now, and when he learns , we have a special connection. The father and son connection is strengthened. That's why the Nefesh HaChaim says, when we say Hashivenu Avinu L'Torahtecha/ Return us God to your Torah , it says God, our Father/Hashivenu Avinu . It's the father's responsibility to teach his son Torah, and God is our Father. It's His responsibility to teach us Torah. Like a great Rosh Yeshiva that loves his students. He sees his students 20-30 years later and they still have a special bond- I learned with him. That is how Hashem feels for the person that is involved in His Torah. Of course, everyone is Banim atem Hashem, we are all Hashem's children . Yet we say in HaYom Harat Olam, Im Kibanim, Im Kavadim. Some are treated like sons and some are treated like servants. The more that we are connected to the Torah and the learning of the Torah, the more we have that concept of sons. This is such a wonderful, beautiful pasuk.
Some people think that the word "fornication" means sex outside of marriage. Some say that this is what it means in the Bible. NOPE. Sorry folks. Fornication comes from Greek and from Hebrew that have nothing to do with sex before marriage. God never states specifically that pre-marital sex or sex outside of marriage is a sin – even in the New Testament. But it is How does God teach us that sex before marriage is a sin? How does He teach this in His Torah, His "instruction?" How did He get this across to His chosen people, the Hebrews, coming out of Egypt? How did God do this to His people in the 1st century A.D. when He, Yeshua HaMaschiach, Jesus the Messiah, God Himself, was here with us? And remember, Jesus' Bible was the Old Testament and the Old Testament never specifically says that sex before marriage is a sin. But it is We missed it. He did teach it. But, once again we need to put the Bible into its historical perspective. You will NOT get this is you simply read the Bible in English. Once again as it was understood in Jesus' day among the great Bible teachers, study to learn and learn to do. One needs to understand how God taught them THEN, thousands of years ago, so we can understand NOW. Sex outside of marriage is a sin and, on top of that, it looks as if it is something God hates. Wait till you see. Here's a number of links I promised in the podcast you many find very enlightening. The first ones relate to articles from Jewish scholarly sources that show the Torah is silent on sex before marriage. MY JEWISH LEARNING – https://www.myjewishlearning.com/article/jewish-views-on-premarital-sex/#:~:text=When%20sex%20is%20reserved%20for,within%20the%20context%20of%20kiddushin. AISH – Orthodox Jewish Teaching Site – https://aish.com/premarital-relations/ JEWISH VIRTUAL LIBRARY – https://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/premarital-sex The second set of links show that premarital sex was common in Greece and Rome and ancient Egypt and Canaan. Link 1 - the practice of sex outside of marriage, abortion, and infanticide in ancient Greece and Rome – https://soc.history.ancient.narkive.com/DIO506S4/world-before-christ-infanticide-and-abortion-in-ancient-pagan-world Link 2 - WORLD HISTORY ENCYCLOPEDIA – https://www.worldhistory.org/article/934/love-sex-and-marriage-in-ancient-egypt/ Link 3 - THE NOT SO INNOCENTS ABROAD – https://www.thenotsoinnocentsabroad.com/blog/the-sex-lives-of-ancient-egyptians Link 4-6 – Ray Vander Laan's article on ancient pagan religion and practices – https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/fertility-cults-of-canaan https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/hellenism-center-of-the-universe https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/innocent-blood Link 7 - my research article for my master's degree in Biblical history. The focus is on adoption in ancient Turkey (Asia Minor) but relates to infanticide in ancient Rome. The bibliography is invaluable - https://www.dropbox.com/s/i0fg3wwbm9xohzq/Ephesus%20Adopt.pdf?dl=0 Ferret - on top of Tel Azeka in the Shephelah in Israel Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
God creates whales and seals and sharks and lobsters and walleye and catfish and cows and dogs and lions and tigers and pigs ... He creates all the "living creatures." In Hebrew the word is נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. But, God also "forms" man and man is called נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. Are animals and man the same? Today some say this is the case. Today some say animals have the same rights as humans since animals and humans are the same. How can this be? Moreover, Jewish and Christian translators translate נֶפֶשׁ nephesh as soul! For example in Deut. 6:5 it says we are to love God with are whole heart and soul or נֶפֶשׁ nephesh. So, the Bible in English could be used to justify the crazy world view that animals and humans are the same. They are living creatures and they have souls! How does God distinguish man from the animals? Is there something we are missing? You bet. Another thing we will study in lesson 9 is that God uses His Torah as a polemic against Egypt. Again, a polemic is a strong truth claim attacking an opposing truth claim. God is inspiring Moses to write a polemic against Egypt. An example is in Egypt there is a god called Khum. See the royalty free picture below of the god Khum from CLKER.com. He is a creator god and in one of the creation stories in ancient Egypt, Khum is called the POTTER in that Khum formed all creation, stars, planets, sky, the earth, the oceans, and all animals and plants and man and woman and all the gods on his potter wheel. Here is a link to an article about the Egyptian god Khum that you may be interested in as an addition to your study - https://ancientegyptonline.co.uk/khnum/ But the Bible says that the God of the Bible is the potter and we are the clay. But now, O LORD, You are our Father, we are the clay, and You our potter; and all of us are the work of Your hand. (Isa 64:8) How does God come against Khum? How does God inspire Moses to help the Hebrews coming out of Egypt see that Khum is not the potter, not the creator, and a false god? Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
Parsha "Vaetchanan," (Devarim or Deuteronomy 3:23 - 7:11) is, very what might be called the heart of the heart of His Torah, because it includes not only the 'reiteration' of the Ten Debarim (Sayings, Words, or 'commandments') but also what the Messiah Himself called the "greatest commandment" of all. First, he Erev Shabbat reading of some of the most central commandments in the Bible: https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/SSM-8-16-24-Vaetchanan-teaching-podcast-x.mp3 In the Sabbath day midrash, Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa makes the case that there is FAR more to the instruction here than many of us have been led to believe. Do even the "Ten Commandments" still apply, now that we have been exiled from the land? OR, does He mean what He says about the commandment to neither "add to," or "subtract from?" It's a 'razor' that is key to understanding how to discern His Truth from the "lies we have inherited from our fathers." And a 'church' that, all too often, attempts to turn his very Word 'upside down.' The deception He warned us about is here. But we can 'see that your are not deceived.' WARNING: This is another rather blunt message, because time draws short. "Vaetchanan: The Razor!" https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/WT-CooH-8-16-24-Vaetchanan-The-Razor-podcast-xxx.mp3 The combined two-part teaching is here:
התוכן א) טוב ונכון שביום ההילולא דהאריז"ל יעלו על הציון שלו ו"ברוב עם הדרת מלך", וללמוד שם מתורתו כפי שנתבארה בתורת חסידות חב"ד, ולהתפלל שם ולתת שם צדקה, ולעשות כ"ז בציבור. באה"ק – לעשות א"ז על הציון בגשמיות, אבל יש לעשות א"ז גם בכל מקום בה' מנחם-אב. כי כמו שה' הכניס א"ע בתורה ולכן ע"י התורה "אותי אתם לוקחים", עד"ז הוא בצדיקים ש"דומים לבוראם" בנוגע לתורתם. ב) לערוך סיומי מסכתות בכל ימי תשעת הימים, כולל בת"ב. ג) להתחזק במיוחד בימים אלו בהתעסקות בכל המבצעים, כולל מבצע נש"ק, ומובן גודל הענין דהדלקת נש"ק בערב שבת זו – ערב שבת חזון וכו'. ובכללות – הוספה בכל הג' קוין דתורה, עבודה ו(גמ"ח) מצוות, ומתוך שמחה שפורצת כל הגדרים וכו'.משיחת אור לער"ח מנ"א ה'תשל"ה ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=04-08-2024 Synopsis (1) It is a good and proper thing to visit the resting place of the Arizal on his yahrzeit, 5 Av, and “The splendor of the King is in the multitude of the people,” and also to study his teachings as they are explained in Chabad Chassidus, to daven there and give tzedakah there, and to do it all communally. In the Holy Land it should be done at his physical resting place, but it should also be done everywhere; just as Hashem placed Himself in His Torah, such that by studying Torah, “you take Me,” so it is with tzaddikim who “resemble their Creator” and their teachings. (2) Siyumim should be conducted throughout the Nine Days, including on Tisha B'Av. (3) All the mivtzaim should be strengthened during the Nine Days in particular, especially the Shabbos Candles Campaign; we can understand the great importance of lighting Shabbos candles this week in particular, on Erev Shabbos Chazon. And in general, everyone should increase in the three aspects of Torah, Avodah, and Gemilus Chassadim (mitzvos) and with joy that breaks all boundaries, etc.Excerpt from sichah of Erev Rosh Chodesh Menachem-Av 5735 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=04-08-2024 לזכות פרימא בת פריידא שתחי' ליום ההולדת שלה כ"ט תמוז - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובותלזכות מושקא תחי' יוניק ליום ההולדת שלה כ"ט תמוז - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובותנדבת הורי' ר' דוד וזוגתו מרת חנה שיחיו יוניק
PINCHAS Zealous for HaShem or Yourself? - STUMP THE RABBI (210) https://youtu.be/JB_NSWCpeq4 Parashat Pinchas reminds us of the obligation to rebuke and protest against those who desecrate the Name of HaShem and violate His Torah. While this is certainly a difficult task for many, we see that some who attempt to fulfill it, cause more damage than good. In fact, we see that many times, the rebuke had nothing to do with HaShem, and was all about the ego of the "zealous rebuker." BeEzrat HaShem we will learn the difference between the zealous for HaShem versus zealous for self in this shiur and bring more mercy to the world. Enjoy, Learn, Share and Be Holy.
התוכן יכול להיות א' שכשיאמרו לו שהקב"ה בחר בו כחלק מבנ"י ונתן לו את תורתו, ואשר לכן עליו לנצל כמה רגעים ביום ללימוד התורה, יענה: דוקא מפני שמוקיר את התורה ה"ה "שומר" עלי' ע"י שנותן אותה לתוך נרתיק מאחורי "זכוכית עבה" מעל מדף גבוה... יש לומר לו שרצונו ית' שיתיישב ללמוד תורה בפועל ממש! ואדרבה - הסימן לכבוד התורה הוא שזה נעשה הלחם יום-יומי לנשמתו ובכל רגע פנוי מוציא ספר ומעיין בו עד שנקרע מרוב שמוש! וזהו דיוק הלשון [במכתב בעל הגאולה לקראת חג הגאולה י"ב-י"ג תמוז תרפ"ח, שכותב שם שזהו חג גאולת עוסקי] "הרבצת התורה": מלשון "רובץ תחת משאו" - הסימן שמוקירים את התורה מתבטא בזה שלא משאירים אותה למעלה "שעשועים לפניו", אלא מורידים אותה ולומדים בה בפועל בכל רגע פנוי (כמובן ביחד עם שמירת כבוד התורה ע"י הקדמת ברכת התורה וכו').משיחת י"ג תמוז ה'תשל"ה ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-07-2024 Synopsis Sometimes it happens that when you tell a Jew that Hashem has chosen him as part of the Jewish people and given him His Torah, and that he must therefore dedicate a few moments each day to studying Torah, he responds: Specifically because he values Torah, he “protects” it by placing it in a case behind thick glass on a high shelf... It should be explained to him that Hashem wants him to sit down and actually study Torah! On the contrary – the true sign of respect for the Torah is that it becomes the daily nourishment for one's soul and that in his every free moment he takes out a sefer and delves into so much that it tears from excessive use! Thus [the baal hageulah in his letter for the occasion of 12-13 Tammuz 5688] specifically uses the expression that [the redemption is one for all those engaged in] “harbatzas Torah” – from the phrase “rovetz tachas masa'o” “lying under its burden”: the sign of respect for Torah is when one doen't leave it above as “delights before him,” but brings it down here and studies it at every free moment etc.Excerpt from sichah of 13 Tammuz 5735 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-07-2024 לזכות מרדכי בן חי'ה ריסא שי' ונגר ליום ההולדת שלו י"ד תמוז - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות.נדבת אביו ר' שמואל שי' ונגר
While my guest on this episode is literally a Jewish rock star, he would still be one even if he had chosen a different profession. Listen in as we discuss how, when a Jew embraces their relationship with Hashem and His Torah, it does not change them; it simply allows them to actualize who they truly are and bring out their potential and unique creative nature to the world. When we align our spiritual selves with our physical selves, we can each achieve rock star status.To pre-order his new book, Suspended by No String: A Songwriter's Reflections on Faith, Aliveness, and Wonder click here. ★ Support this podcast ★
Go step by step. You must have a healthy body. Eating well to widen your mind to Hashem and His Torah is considered like a sacrifice. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/011/009/3573
Rav Moshe Wolfson Aka the Mashgiach Ztl of kehilos Emunas Yisrael passed away, alongside other tragedies we dedicated our learning to their Souls. Dedicated to Healing and Shmirah for the soldiers. The Mashgiach was my oldest son's Sandek. We learn Sefar Tanya Perek 20, to bring down Unity of Hashem through speech to the Mashiach mindset to overcome the challenging days and news... We Mchazzik with Torah and music
This week and we have passed through Feast of Shavout, you've received His covenant mantle and now individual mantles are being released. God has branded you with His covenant mantle and is now releasing angels to bring you new assignments to be carried out just like he did in the Old Testament in Exodus 25 when He gave instructions for the people to start working and bring him offerings .Then in Acts 3 when Apostles Peter and John stepped out in the mantles of Gods power and when faced with the lame man at the gate of Beautiful, Peter simply said in Acts 3:6 , “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.”We have been mantled with the corporate covenant mantle, and in order for us to walk in our individual mantles we must exercise the power of the foundation of our new identity in Him through the corporate mantle in Exodus 19-20 and Acts 1-2!He gave us His Torah and Spirit as a new corporate mantle identity and now we are called to carry out our purpose in the earth from that foundation as we receive our new individual mantles of power.It is time to GO in this new power, identity and purity of being a royal nation and holy priesthood! Now, proof of this could be some enemy distraction- that's ok! The enemy is confirming the anointing on your life! Stand strong and keep moving ahead!Laugh in the face of the enemy as you remain steadfast in the covenant and faith!In John 14:21, Jesus says, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.”That word commandments means to be INJOINED to Him! You have received HIM and the manifestation of Him which is His commandments!Stand firm in God's commandments and receive the power to move ahead in all God has called you to! You are making ground for the kingdom!If you have not given your Feast of Shavout, Pentecost offering as of now, it is not too late. And this week even in Exodus 25:2, “Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.”We are called to DO something with His covenant mantle.At Candice Smithyman Ministries, we partner to help children be released of sex trafficking and being put in orphanages all over the world, and we bring the message of hope to inmates in prison, and reach the world through the gospel in media ministry.You can give today here: https://candicesmithyman.com/partnership/If you have not gotten a copy of Dr. Candice's Angels of Fire : The Ministry of Angels in the End Time Revival you can find it here with MP3 download. https://candicesmithyman.com/product/preorder-angels-of-fire-autographed-cd-set/
The story of Rav Mendel of Viznitz and Rivka, who brought him tea while he was in exile, can serve as a parallel to our current situation and our relationship with Avinu Malkeinu and His Torah.
התוכן ישנם ב' נקודות בקשר למ"ת: 1) שאז "בחר בנו מכל העמים". 2) ולכן "נתן לנו את תורתו" כדי שנלמד בה בתור "תורתו של הקב"ה". דאף ש"היא חכמתכם ובינתכם לעיני העמים", הנה דוקא מי ש"וה' עמו", שאין בעולמו אלא הוא והקב"ה ו(במילא) אין לו שום פניות בלימוד התורה – "הלכה כמותו". כהכנה למ"ת יש להדגיש ב' נקודות אלו: 1) "בחר בנו מכל העמים". בשעת מ"ת לקח בורא ומנהיג העולם את עם ישראל ועשאו "סגולה מכל עמי הארץ". ומאותו רגע שָׂם גבול והבדלה "בין ישראל לעמים"! ומי שרוצה לעשות שינויים בזה ע"י "חוקים" שונים – ה"ז נגד ענינו של מ"ת ש"מה להלן . . אף כאן באימה וביראה וברתת ובזיע"! 2) רק מי ש"ה' עמו", שנוגע לו רק מ"ש בתורתו של הקב"ה, בלי פניות, יכול לפסוק דינים. ויה"ר אשר כמו שבשעת מ"ת "כפה עליהם הר כגיגית", ה"יערה עלינו רוח ממרום", שהעמיד את בנ"י על טהרתם, הנה כן תהי' לנו אצל כאו"א בעניניו וכו'.ב' חלקים משיחת אור לערב חג השבועות ה'תשל"ג ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=10-06-2024 Synopsis There are two points regarding the Giving of the Torah: (1) When the Torah was given, “He chose us from all the nations”; (2) therefore, “He gave us His Torah” for us to study it as “the Torah of the Holy One, Blessed Be He,” meaning, although “it is your wisdom and understanding in the eyes of the nations,” it is only when someone has no ulterior motives and cares about nothing but Hashem (“Hashem is with him”) that the law can “be according to him.” To prepare for the Giving of the Torah, these two points must be emphasized. (1) “He chose us from all the nations”: At the time of the Giving of the Torah, the Creator and Ruler of the world took the Jewish people and made them “a treasure from all the peoples,” and from that moment He established a boundary and distinction “between the Jewish people and the nations”! Anyone who wishes to change this by trying to implement different “statutes” defies the Giving of the Torah, which must be accepted nowadays “with reverence, fear, quaking, and trembling” just as it was at Sinai. (2) Only someone who “Hashem is with him,” i.e., who is concerned solely with what it says in the Torah of the Holy One, Blessed Be He, without any other considerations or ulterior motives, can issue proper halachic rulings. May it be His will that just as when the Torah was given at Sinai “He overturned the mountain above them like a basin,” “Pouring a spirit for us from on high,” which put the Jewish people in their pure state, so, too, may it be for every Jew in his own life etc.Two excerpts from sichah of the night of Erev Shavuos 5733 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=10-06-2024 לזכות הילד אלי' ברוך הכהן בן רוזה חנה שי' ליום ההולדת שלו ה' סיון. לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובותנדבת אביו ר' אברהם הכהן שי'
The Book of Ruth is one of the best known and best loved of all the Biblical works of the Jewish Bible. This series explores the hidden levels of depth and meaning. The last 2 chapters involve Ruth assuming two persons in one, as she suggests marriage of herself to Boaz. It seems unclear whether this is intended to be for her own good, her own actualisation and fulfilment, or whether this is her selflessly stepping aside to be a surrogate for Naomi. A deeper look at the text suggests that in Ruth's world there is no zero sum. It is possible to fully self actualise and fully be giving to another at the same time. This radical idea is understood by Boaz, and leads to the radical transformation of the town of Bethlehem, the people of ancient Israel and ultimately leads to the full unification of Israel in preparation for the birth of their great grandchild, King David. Within this story lies the Tenach (Bible)'s insight into how subtle shifts of attitude can cascade across space and time, and bring about radical change of national unity, of our relationship with Hashem, and ability to truly receive His Torah.
התוכן ידוע השאלה על מ"ש בתחלת פ' בהר "כי תבואו אל הארץ ושבתה הארץ שבת לה'. שש שנים תזרע שדך וגו'" – הרי ה"שש שנים תזרע שדך וגו'" באים לפני ה"שנה השביעית", "ושבתה הארץ שבת לה'"?! אלא שכאן באה ההוראה בקשר לענין החינוך, שזהו הרי פקוח נפש ממש להשתדל שכל ילד יהודי יקבל חינוך עפ"י תורה: ישנם הורים השואלים/הטוענים "וכי תאמרו מה נאכל"?! – במה יתפרנס הילד כאשר הוא יגדל?! והרי רואים שגם התורה [בפ' בהר] מתייחסת לשאלה זאת! והתשובה היא: נכון, עפ"י תורה יש מקום לשאלה זו, כי צ"ל עשי' בדרך הטבע – "וברכך ה' אלקיך בכל אשר תעשה", ומ"מ יש לדעת, שאי"ז אלא "כלי", והאמת היא ש"וברכך ה' אלקיך בכל אשר תעשה", "ברכת ה' היא תעשיר", "וצויתי את ברכתי בשנה הששית" – הברכה וההשפעה וההצלחה באים מאת הקב"ה. ובמילא עיקר חינוך וחיות הילדים צ"ל בהליכה בדרכי ה' בתומ"צ כדי לזכות לברכת ה' ולא להיות מונחים יותר מדי ב"כלי"... משיחת מוצאי ל"ג בעומר ה'תש"מ ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-05-2024 Synopsis The beginning of Parashas Behar states: “…When you come to the land…the land shall rest a Shabbos to Hashem. Six years you may sow your field….” The question is asked: why does the verse place “the land shall rest a Shabbos to Hashem” first, if the seventh year only comes after the “Six years you may sow etc.”? This teaches us a fundamental lesson regarding proper Jewish education (which is truly a matter of saving lives): Some parents say, “What will we eat'”?! – how will the child make a living when he grows up; they argue that even the Torah addresses this question (in Parashas Behar). The answer is that while this is indeed a valid question according to the Torah, because “One may not rely on a miracle,” and must earn a living via natural means (“And Hashem your G-d will bless you in all that you do”), nevertheless, one must know that the natural means is only a “vessel,” but it is the “blessing of Hashem that makes rich” – “I will command My blessing for you in the sixth year….” Therefore, the main focus of the child's education and energy must be on following Hashem's ways and keeping His Torah and mitzvos. In this way he will merit Hashem's blessing; the focus must not be on the vessel.Excerpt from sichah of Lag B'Omer 5740 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=19-05-2024 לע"נ מרת שרה זיסל ב"ר משה הלוי ע"ה וויינבוים ליום היארצייט שלה י' אייר. ת.נ.צ.ב.ה.לזכות שמעון צבי הכהן בן חוה רחל שי' ליום ההולדת שלו י"א אייר - לשנת ברכה והצלחה, ואריכות ימים ושנים טובות
The Torah in Parashat Emor introduces the Misva of the Korban Ha'omer – the special sacrifice which was offered on the 16 th of Nissan, the second day of Pesach. This sacrifice included the offering of an “Omer” of the new barley harvest, the first of the freshly-grown spring produce, and it is forbidden to partake of the season's yield before this sacrifice is offered. This sacrifice was given the name “Korban Ha'omer” – “the Omer sacrifice,” referring to the Omer – a measurement – of new grain that was offered. The Torah then commands that we count forty-nine days from the day this sacrifice is offered, a Misva which is of course known as “Sefirat Ha'omer” – “the counting of the Omer.” We must understand why the word “Omer” features so prominently in the context of these Misvot. The word “Omer” refers to a certain measurement of flour, specifically, one-tenth of an “Efa.” Why would this measurement be so significant, that this became the name of the sacrifice? Moreover, throughout the Humash, the Torah uses the term “Isaron” – “one-tenth” – in reference to this measurement, for, as mentioned, it equals one-tenth of an Efa. But when it comes to the Korban Ha'omer, the word “Omer” is used. Why? We must also understand why we refer to the nightly counting as “Sefirat Ha'omer.” Why is the “Omer” of barley offered on the 16 th of Nissan our point of focus when we count the days from Pesach to Shabuot? The answer, as developed by Rav Yosef Salant (Jerusalem, 1885-1981) in his Be'er Yosef, emerges from the comments of the Zohar here in Parashat Emor regarding the Omer sacrifice. The Zohar draws a connection between this offering and the first time the word “Omer” appears in the Torah – in the context of the manna, the heavenly food which Hashem fed Beneh Yisrael in the desert. We read in Parashat Beshalah (Shemot 16:16) that an Omer of manna was provided for each member of the nation, each day. The Zohar states that G-d commanded Beneh Yisrael to offer an Omer of grain as though they give back the Omer of manna they received in the desert. The purpose of this sacrifice is to recall and express gratitude for the manna which our ancestors received for forty years in the desert. Rav Salant explains that during the years of travel in the desert, Beneh Yisrael lived a supernatural existence, sustained miraculously by G-d. It was perfectly clear to them that their sustenance depended solely on G-d's grace and kindness. But once Beneh Yisrael entered the Land of Israel, the manna stopped falling, and they needed to till the land to produce food and sustain themselves. As they would be producing food themselves, rather than receiving food directly from the heavens, the people might lose sight of the fact that Hashem provides them with their sustenance. They might come to think that their success depends solely on their hard work and effort. They would then focus their time and energy exclusively on their farming, and neglect spirituality, studying Torah and performing Misvot. Mistakenly thinking that their hard work alone determines the success of their endeavors, they would not make any time for Hashem, for Torah and Misvot. Therefore, Rav Salant explains, the Torah commands that none of the new grain may be eaten before an Omer of new grain – symbolizing the manna – is offered on the altar. Just as an Omer of manna descended from the heavens to the earth each morning, Beneh Yisrael offer the first Omer of the food produced from the earth to Hashem, as though sending it to the heavens. They express their awareness of the fact that the food they produce, too, is like manna, as it – no less than the manna – came from the heavens, as a blessing from Hashem. Even when we work hard and exert effort to earn a livelihood, we must recognize and firmly believe that the sustenance we receive, our income, everything we have, is a blessing granted to us from Hashem. This is why we count “Sefirat Ha'omer” every night until Shabuot. Each night, when we count the Omer, we remind ourselves of the Omer sacrifice – and thus remember that everything we have is “manna” which Hashem sends us from the heavens. This is how we prepare for the holiday of Shabuot, when we celebrate our receiving the Torah. For forty-nine days, we are reminded that it is Hashem who sends us our livelihood – and this assures us that we can and must take time away from our material pursuits for the sake of Torah learning. As ultimately it is the Almighty, and not our efforts, that bring us our livelihood, we will not lose at all – and will, in fact, only gain – by devoting time each day for the service of Hashem, for the study of His Torah. We then begin Shabuot with renewed faith in Hashem's provision of all our needs – which will lead to a renewed commitment to strike the necessary balance between the work we need to invest in securing a livelihood, and our faith that it is Hashem who grants us our livelihood.
Making a Kiddush Hashem and avoiding Chillul Hashem are from the most fundamental Mitzvos we have. The more we represent Hashem and His Torah, as individuals and as a people, the greater our responsibility in this area. Discussion about our responsibilities and our potential for greatness in this area. Have a Wonderful Shabbos.
The Torah is effectively infinite. It is longer than the land and broader than the seas. God is infinite and unfathomable; He gave us His Torah in order for us to connect with Him. Torah is, in fact, accessible to us, but we never arrive at the end point of Torah. It's infinite. Moreover, the […]
The Torah is effectively infinite. It is longer than the land and broader than the seas. God is infinite and unfathomable; He gave us His Torah in order for us to connect with Him. Torah is, in fact, accessible to us, but we never arrive at the end point of Torah. It's infinite. Moreover, the deeper someone immerses themselves into the vast seas of Torah, the deeper they discover it to be. In this very special podcast, we explore some striking examples of the infinity of the Torah.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★
THE STORY OF JOSEPH - lesson 12 GOD WORKS ALL THINGS TOGETHER FOR GOOD TO BRING ABOUT HIS PURPOSES Joseph - the prototype of Jesus The TORAH (תּוֹרָה) - the first five books of the Bible - is often mistranslated by many as law. In Hebrew, however, we find … The word "Torah" in Hebrew is derived from the root YERAH ירה, which in the hif'il conjugation means 'to guide' or 'to teach'. The meaning of the word is therefore "teaching", "doctrine", or "instruction"; the commonly accepted translation as "law" gives a wrong impression. (Rabinowitz, Louis; Harvey, Warren (2007). "Torah". In Berenbaum, Michael; Skolnik, Fred (eds.). Encyclopedia Judaica. Vol. 20 (2nd ed.). Detroit: Macmillan Reference. pp. 39–46) As we continue our study of the saga of Joseph we come to Gen. 42:1-5. Jacob sons ten of his sons to Egypt to buy grain. Joseph is about to confront his brothers again after what they did to him more than a decade before. But, something is different. We begin to see God's hand in restoring Joseph to his brothers and to his father, Jacob. We begin to see God working all things together, no matter what the circumstances, for good so as His purposes and plans are established. But, the Lord also is telling us, teaching us, in His TORAH (תּוֹרָה) – His books of teaching and instruction – that this is a prototype of something coming, the days of the Messiah. For as Joseph is reunited with his brothers who rejected him, so too Jesus. He too will be reunified with His brothers, all of Israel. Paul got it. Paul writes that one day all Israel will be saved, all Israel will be disciples of Yeshua. So, no matter how bad things look or even if things are good, no matter. God will use all things to work together for the good, for His ultimate purposes. This is the lesson Yahvay (יהוה) our Lord is trying to get through to us in the saga of Joseph. Check out the video (link below) that introduces us to this amazing connection between Joseph and Jesus. What is so awesome is God inspired Moses to write about Joseph 3400 years ago. Little did Moses know how his writing would help us today to see how God predicted His ultimate SAVIOR OF THE WORLD from the story of Joseph as the prototype. Here's the link to the video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QQKadh0fVCo Also, here's link to an awesome article at the website, "Hebrew4Christians." I linked you to the pages at this website that also give even more awesome connections between Yosef and Yeshua. Link - https://hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Mashiach_ben_Yosef/mashiach_ben_yosef.html Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
On the night of the Seder we are commanded to relate the story of Yetziat Mitzrayim and thereby imbue into our families the emunah that Hashem runs the world. The Haggadah tells us we have to relate the story even if everyone at the table are חכמים . Which means, even if everyone has a wellspring of emunah that they have already learned from their parents and rabbis, they still need to hear the story. And even if everyone at the Seder are נבונים , which means they are able to see Hashem just by analyzing the world and creation and how everything works. And some texts say אפילו כולנו זקנים , even if everyone at the Seder is an elderly person who has lived a full life and has seen with his own eyes countless episodes that clearly show that Hashem is running the world. As I'm writing this lesson, a man just came over to me and said, his relative was told by a doctor that he is about to lose his eyesight in one eye, lo alenu . The man was broken and asked if there was perhaps someone who could give him chizuk . His relative made him an appointment with a big rabbi who's a dayan and a posek who he felt would give him the proper chizuk . At the meeting, the rabbi revealed to this man something he never told anyone in his community about, that he himself has only one eye that works. He proceeded to tell him how much he's able to accomplish with one eye and how everything about his life is completely normal. The man got so much chizuk from that meeting. The relative told me he had no idea that this rabbi only had one eye. What were the odds that the one person he sent his relative to for chizuk would have the same issue as him? Only Hashem can orchestrate such a meeting. The Haggadah continues and says, אפילו כולנו יודעים את התורה . Even if everyone at the Seder knows Hashem through delving into His Torah. The greatest proof of Hashem's existence is the wisdom inside of the book that He gave us. Even if someone has emunah in Hashem from all of these different sources, he still has a mitzvah on the night of the Seder to relate the story of Yetziat Mitzrayim . Once a year, we are commanded with a מצוות עשה מן התורה to gain emunah in Hashem specifically through relating the story of Yetziat Mitzrayim . That is the mitzvah of the night. A person may know with such a clarity אין עוד מלבדו - there's nothing in this world with any power besides Hashem. Yet on this night, he must strengthen his emunah by speaking about the wonders and miracles that Hashem performed in taking us out of Mitzrayim . And the better a person does this mitzvah, the more praiseworthy he becomes. The story he tells this year about Yetziat Mitzrayim will not be the same as last year. The Chatam Sofer writes, when a person yearns to do a mitzvah properly, he merits a special heavenly assistance in doing it. The greatest rabbis who ever lived, who seemingly knew the entire Torah backwards and forwards, came up with the new chiddushim every year in their sipur Yetziat Mitzrayim . The Torah is endless. The Chafetz Chaim said that after thousands of years of the greatest Torah scholars learning day and night, we haven't even scratched the surface of the Torah yet. It was known that every year the Chatam Sofer would have an entirely new approach of analyzing Yetziat Mitzrayim . Obviously, this requires preparation. To do this mitzvah properly, a person has to open books and listen to classes and be ready to teach his family about Hashem taking us out of Mitzrayim . All we have to do is make the effort and then Hashem will take over. The Panim Yafot in Parashat Bo writes, there's a great light that Hashem reveals on this night and each person, according to his level of preparation and purity, will receive benefit from this light. It's the same light that Hashem revealed on the night of Yetziat Mitzrayim, that is infinite, that can connect a person to Hashem in the deepest way. On this night, there may be a large variety of people at a person's Seder or there may be a large age gap between people anywhere from 20 to 30 to 40 years. The pasuk tells us to tell the story באזני בנך ובן בנך - in our children and grandchildren's ears. The Kol Yehudah writes, it doesn't say ears twice, to teach us that with the help of Hashem that He gives that night, we will be able to give the exact same message to everyone at the table and they'll all be able to gain in their own way from it. There's a special segula on the night of the Seder to give emunah to anyone who participates and may Hashem give us the siyata d'Shamayah to do it the best way possible.
To sign up for the new zman of VHP, click here. Proffesor Aaron Allen is Chair of Radiation Oncology at Shaare Zedek Medical Center, and Deputy Director of the American Medical Program at Tel Aviv University. He can be reached by email, Aaronal@szmc.org.il We talk about his efforts to find a deep and authentic connection with Hashem and His Torah, despite being a busy physician. Do you want more Shtark Tank in your life? Join the Shtark Tank Quiet Whatsapp Group for exclusive bonus content! If you have any sort of feedback, or just want to say hey, don't hesitate! You can reach me by email and LinkedIn
In today's episode we discuss how we are called upon to love and try to draw near those who are not on par with our spiritual standings and are far from G-d and His Torah. Music by Shoshannah. Follow us on: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGGTknXIYx1DScUYJe2nupwFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/It-Is-Taught-101805165658211Twitter: https://twitter.com/itistaughtInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/itistaughtpodcast/Support the show
AHRON PATTERSON: Foster Child That Found ABA l RTH PODCAST #19 https://youtu.be/onuqOzI1CbQ?si=KW0sVmwJxqSMfxtW In Episode 19, we meet Ahron Patterson, a diamond in the rough Jew that grew up in the tough foster care system, completely disconnected from HaShem and His Torah, and surrounded by drugs and crime. Ahron's straight and sometimes rough talk is full relevant truth about the serious life battles some of us must go through before we find our way back to Aba (HaShem). We Though intrigued by Torah lectures among the many subjects he's learned, it was the FREE KIRUV PACKAGE from Rabbi Yaron Reuven that contained the information that would help him choose the Life of Torah. Watch this very interesting interview, and let yourself be inspired and educated about the awesome ways of HaShem, and how He will turn the world over to give every Jew a road to get back to Him. Enjoy, Share, and Be Holy.
THREE THOUSAND SIYUMIM EVENT: The Unforgettable Night of Torah ENGLISH VERSION https://youtu.be/3I1zrpN8B8Y As War in Israel began, the need to get closer to HaShem and His Torah was higher than ever. This Torah Event was held at perfect timing, and included a ceremony and special prayer for our Soldiers and fellow Jews around the world that need more protection in these tough times. Witness Torah History in the Making - 3000 Siyumim Celebration by Be'Ezrat HaShem Inc. for the Honor of Torah at ICC Jerusalem A magnificent event in honor of the Torah that included thousands of Siyumim of the Gemara, Shas Mishnayot, Shulchan Aruch and more, and was celebrated at the ICC Jerusalem hall, with the participation of Gdolei Hador and the distinguished Shas completers. The event also announced the opening of Beit Din Tzedek (Rabbinical Court) and the appointing of Rabbi Efraim Kachlon Shlit"a as the head of the Beit Din. Be'Ezrat HaShem Inc. distributed respectable rewards to all the young and older scholars, and with God's help continues to support those who toil in the Torah. The 1 Million Campaign was also launched, due to the difficult situation for Am Yisrael, which includes the study of one million Dapim of Gemara for men, completion of one million books of Tehilim (Psalms) for women, and the study of one million Mishnayot for boys under Bar Mitzva. For details and registration contact 03-3137868 or email rachel@beezrathashem.org
JUDAH AND TAMAR - PART 2 What is going on? Joseph is nearly killed by his brothers, saved by Rueben, and Judah suggests they sell Joseph to a group of Ishmaelite traders. They sell Joseph and the caravan carries Joseph as a slave to Egypt. The story is just beginning and then out of nowhere comes Genesis 38 and the saga of Judah and Tamer. Why did God cause this baffling interruption to the Joseph story? Perhaps one reason is when we return to Joseph we will see that Joseph will not see his brothers, specifically Judah, for 20 years. In those 20 years Judah has his encounter with his daughter in law, Tamar. So, the Lord may have interrupted the Joseph story to do a kind of “meanwhile back at the ranch” side story. But, this is God's word! His written word, especially His Torah, is said to be the Way and the Truth and the Life. From the face of it, the Judah and Tamar story, though interesting in itself, is still baffling. There must be something else going on. The great scholar Nahum Sarna, the author of the JPS Torah Commentary – Genesis, says there must be more to the Judah and Tamar saga since this saga is closed up in scriptural bookends. Here's the verse just before the Judah and Tamar event … Meanwhile, the Midianites sold him in Egypt to Potiphar, Pharaoh's officer, the captain of the bodyguard. (Gen 37:36) After this verse is chapter 38 or the Judah and Tamar saga. Then we read the verse in chapter 39:1 – the verse immediately following the Judah and Tamar story … Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an Egyptian officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the bodyguard, bought him from the Ishmaelites, who had taken him down there. (Gen 39:1) These two verses are almost identical repeats of each other. It is as if God packed in the Judah and Tamar story between these verses as to say that He engineered it, designed it exactly as is, so as to seemingly tell us this event, the saga of Judah and Tamar is a “big deal” and it critically related to the Joseph story. Now, the Torah itself does not tell us why God inspired Moses to write it tis way. All we can do is guess and speculate. Dr. Sarna is a brilliant mind and awesome scholar and he thinks the story packed in between Gen. 37:36 and Gen. 39:1 is done on purpose to shake up our minds to really focus on Judah and Tamar. There must be a significant reason why God is seemingly calling attention to this interruption. In this podcast we will consider the possibilities. We'll find it seems to be a story that is intimately connected to the Joseph story and, on top of that, the coming of Jesus! Just wait till you study along with me. The Judah and Tamar saga is a story that gives us insights that God is designing amazing events. He is behind it all. Through all this we see the Cross of Christ in the distant horizon of time being planned by יד האלוהים Yad Eloheim - the hand of God. The rabbis have a saying for this ... חיי האבות הם סימנים לבנים HaYay HaAvot Hem Seemaneem Lay Baneem The Lives of the Fathers are Signs for the Sons In light of this the rabbis early on connected Joseph to the Messiah. They said Joseph was a prototype of the Messiah. For us that means Jesus. Over and over again as we see Joseph we see the Messiah, our Jesus. Joseph is God's model of what a savor of the world should be like. We will continue to see these unbelievable connections of Joseph and Jesus. God designed it this way so that Joseph is a picture of the coming Messiah. And, the Judah and Tamar story adds to God's engineering for Jesus, His birth, and His mission. Here are some resources to study that will add to your knowledge of these awesome and critically important last chapters of Genesis. Link 1 - a great article from the awesome website, Hebrew4Christians, focusing on one title of the Messiah the rabbis used in the time after the 3rd century A.D., "Maschiach ben Yosef," or Messiah the son of Joseph. This has to do with the fact the rabbis recognized that the Messiah had to suffer and even die. They also recognized that the Messiah would also be victorious as well and establish the throne of Israel in Jerusalem in the days called "The Messianic Age" or the day Messiah comes to rule and reign - https://www.hebrew4christians.com/Articles/Mashiach_ben_Yosef/mashiach_ben_yosef.html Link 2- a second article written by my lead teacher in my graduate program, Dr. Ron Mosely that discusses Joseph is a prototype of the the suffering Messiah just like David is a prototype of the conquering Messiah - https://www.academia.edu/3796976/Twice_Rejected_Mashiach_Ben_Joseph Link 3 - a link to Netivyah ministries in Jerusalem. This is a Messianic Jewish ministry founded by Joseph Shulam, an amazing Jewish scholar who helps us reconnect to our Jewish roots of our faith. This link is to a book written by one of their resident scholars, Elhanan ben Avraham, "Moshiach ben Yosef" (Messiah the Son Of Joseph). I highly recommend you get this book and all the books you can buy from this ministry - https://netivyah.org/product/mashiach-ben-yoseph/ Rev. Ferret - who is this guy? What's his background? Why should I listen to him? Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0
There are times during the year that we get extra siyata d'Shamaya in certain areas. On Hanukkah, we are able to access a special spiritual energy to help us get closer to Hashem. At the time of the Hanukkah miracle, the Jewish People risked their lives to fight the Greeks. What were they fighting for? Their lives were not at risk. They were fighting to be able to follow Torah and mitzvot and serve Hashem properly. When Hashem saw how much His People yearned for His Torah, that is when He performed great miracles for them, enabling them to defeat the Greek army. He continued performing more miracles for them, enabling them to light the Menorah for eight days with pure olive oil. Today when we light our Hanukkah candles, they radiate kedusha . Just looking at the flames can purify a person's eyes. While the candles are burning, it's an עת רצון to pray, especially for help with Torah and mitzvot. I read a story of a representative from a yeshiva in Yerushalayim , whom we'll call Yehuda, who traveled abroad to collect much needed funds for that yeshiva. In one particular city he didn't know anybody and didn't even know where to go. He stopped and made a tefila to Hashem, asking Him to help. A few minutes later, a horse and buggy passed by him with a distinguished gentleman inside. It was a religious man and he asked Yehuda if he needed something. Yehuda told him he was there from Israel collecting and he explained how dire the situation was. The distinguished gentleman invited Yehuda to his luxurious home and gave him a nice sum of money. While he was there, Yehuda noticed amongst very expensive gold and silver vessels on display, a broken jug that used to contain oil. He asked the man why a broken jug would be on display there. The man told him the story behind it. He said when he was younger he veered off the path of Torah and mitzvot and completely abandoned the religion. He looked and acted no different than a goy . One day, he was walking in the street and he saw a little boy crying. He asked the boy what was wrong, and the boy replied that his father gave him money to buy a jug of oil to light the menorah but it fell out of his hands and broke. They were very poor and he wouldn't have enough money to get another one. The man said he felt bad for that boy. He took out money, gave it to him and said, “Go get more.” After he parted ways with that boy, he said to himself, “A little boy cried because he was going to miss out on oil for Hanukkah and I, who have so much, don't even care that I don't do any mitzvot?” He went back and he picked up that broken jug. He took this lesson to heart and started coming back to Torah and mitzvot from it. He then said, “Baruch Hashem, today I am fully shomer Torah and mitzvot and I keep that broken jug of oil on display to remind myself of how Hashem inspired me to come back to Him.” Every Jew has a neshama that desires Torah and mitzvot and all it takes is a little spark to ignite it. A man told me, 30 years ago he had no connection to Torah and mitzvot. Aish HaTorah opened a small branch in his city and they put an ad in a newspaper saying they were offering a Lunch and Learn – a whole spread of deli and a class from a rabbi. The man said he really did not have any interest in the class, but he loved deli. And so, he left work on his lunch break to go there. The rabbi's words at the class made so much sense to him and he was excited to be invited back the following week for another Lunch and Learn. He kept going every week until he became fully observant. Today, this man has religious children and grandchildren and spends his days trying to bring other Jews closer to Hashem. Every Jew wants to be close to Hashem, even the most distant ones. We just need to bring it out of them properly. On Hanukkah, there is an extra siyata d'Shamaya to accomplish it.
In last week's episode, we reviewed the essential understanding of the red beast, Esau (Edom is from adom, red), or The Red One, as he came to be called within Jewish literature. The Red One holds a place of special concern during the Chanukkah season because of the Seven Shepherds and Eighth Prince prophesied to deliver Israel from invading enemies. In The Seven Shepherds: Hanukkah in Prophecy, I demonstrated how we can use Yeshua's template concerning celebrations like Chanukkah and even learn prophecy, especially expectations concerning The Red One. What helps as well is to understand the history of Israel and the Temple that lends insight to the First Century Jewish mindset. In this case, the month of Kislev, or the Ninth Month, is one in which the Greeks installed an abomination that causes desolation idol on the 15th of Kislev and offered sacrifices to the abomination on the 25th of Kislev. Once the Greeks were driven off, the Temple precincts were purified from the abomination, the Temple was rededicated to holy worship on the 25th of Kislev in an eight-day celebration. The eight days of celebration and re-dedication commemorated a missed festival of Sukkot due to the abomination. In effect, it became a "Sukkot sheni," or second Sukkot, a "makeup" permission established in the Torah when a festival was missed due to uncleanness or being absent from the place of celebration. By the time of Yeshua, the Greeks, who were the third beast kingdom, had been replaced by Rome, the fourth beast kingdom. Rome was thought to be descended from Esau, and was called Edom, The Red One. First Century Jerusalem and the Temple Mount were controlled by the Romans politically and militarily. Jews of the First Century were looking for the fulfillment of the prophecy of the Seven Shepherds and Eight Princes who would be raised up to defeat Edom. This is why at the Feast of Dedication (Chanukkah) in winter, Yeshua was asked whether he was the Messiah or not. If so, then they wanted him to declare himself, raise up his kingdom, and overthrow The Red One. When Yeshua answers by talking about sheep, it is not a rambling, random answer. It is rooted in the Jewish expectation of The Seven Shepherds, and very precise. The problem was that no one wanted to hear the answer, which was that there were many other sheep who would have to be gathered first. The gathering would take a long time, and the scarlet beast would not be completely overthrown until Yeshua gathered them. Like most of us, the listeners didn't want to hear that answer. Our mindset is: Destroy all evil right now! What follows is an additional section of The Seven Shepherds: In the New Testament, there is only one other mention of “winter” other than the mention of Yeshua walking in the Temple at the Feast of Dedication, Chanukkah. Words means things, and so does their placement. The winter celebration of Chanukkah was significant in its placement in the Book of John, not random. Likewise, the other mention of winter in Matthew adds more context to the apocalyptic Jewish expectations of Messiah. Therefore, when you see the ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION which was spoken of through Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place (let the reader understand), then those who are in Judea must flee to the mountains…But pray that your flight will not be in the winter, or on a Sabbath. There are two times that Yeshua doesn't want his sheep to take flight: winter or Shabbat. The Jewish liturgy gives the rationale. Every Shabbat, the Torah, the covenant Word of God, is removed from the ark and held up for the congregation to see. The congregation responds with these words initiated by Moses: Arise, O Lord, and let Your enemies be scattered; and let them who hate You flee from You. From for Zion will forth the Torah, and the Word of the LORD from Jerusalem. Blessed be He, Who in His holiness gave His Torah to His people Israel.
התוכן בשיעור רמב"ם היומי מבאר פרטי הדינים ד"צמיד פתיל" בכלי חרס שמציל על מה שבתוכו מקבלת טומאה, חוץ מאוכלים ומשקים שגזרו עליהם וכו', אבל "אדם שהי' נתון בתוך החבית ומוקפת צמיד פתיל – טהור" ולא גזרו ע"ז. ביאור הענין בעבודת ה': ענין ה"חיים, הוא הדביקות בה' ע"י קיום תומ"צ, כמ"ש "ואתם הדבקים בה' .. חיים וגו'". ומזה מובן שע"י החסרון בקיום תומ"צ נעשה חלישות וכו' בענין החיים. והעצה לזה היא – תשובה, שע"י שב האדם ומתדבק בהקב"ה. אבל גם כאשר האדם עצמו הוא במצב של "חיים", אבל ירידתו של יהודי לעוה"ז, ובמיוחד בזמן הגלות וכו', היא בדוגמת כניסה לאוהל המת, וע"ז באה ההוראה, שכדי להנצל מכך הוא עבודת הביטול – "כלי חרס", והפסק מוחלט בינו לבין הטומאה – "צמיד פתיל". וההוראה לפועל: גם כאשר נמצאים בגלות, הנה, לכל לראש, צריך לדעת שרצונו האמיתי של כל יהודי עצמו הוא "לעשות את כל המצוות ולהתרחק מן העבירות", ואם טוען: אבל ה"ה נמצא בעולם שבדוגמת "אוהל המת" – הנה ע"ז יש את העצה הנ"ל. ב' חלקים משיחת אור לכ"ף מרחשון ה'תשמ"ה ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=09-11-2023 Synopsis The daily Rambam discusses the laws of an earthenware vessel covered with a tzamid pasil, a “tightly fastened cover,” that protects its contents from impurity. Though the Sages decreed that food and drink are not protected, the decree doesn't apply to a person, and therefore, a person in a barrel with a tightly fastened cover remains pure. In terms of man's Divine service: a person draws life by connecting to Hashem through His Torah and mitzvos, as it says, “You who cleave to Hashem your G-d are alive, all of you this day.” Thus, when Torah and mitzvos are lacking, one lacks life, too, chas v'shalom. The solution is teshuvah – renewing the bond with Hashem. A Jew is inherently alive, but must descend to this world, which is like “entering a tent covering a corpse”, especially during the exile. But even during the exile, every Jew's true desire is to connect to Hashem and refrain from sin; the way to protect oneself is to have bittul – to be like an “earthenware vessel”, with a “tightly fastened cover,” a total barrier between himself and the impurity.Two excerpts from sicha of 20 MarCheshvan 5745 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=09-11-2023 לע"נ הרה"ח הרה"ת הרב ארי' ליב ב"ר יצחק מיכל ע"ה קרעמער – מנהל ישיבת תות"ל מונטרעאל יותר מיובל שנהליום היארצייט שלו כ"ז מרחשון. תנצב"הנדבת משפחתו שיחיו
I initiated this podcast in 2020 after coming across a prophecy in the Zohar. It foretold a situation akin to how, during the Exodus, 80% of the Jews in Egypt were reluctant to join and preferred to remain in Egypt, ultimately leading to their perishing during the 9th plague of darkness. The prophecy suggested a similar scenario in the final redemption. However, when Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe enlightened me that negative prophecies can be averted, I made a commitment to play my part in reawakening Jews to the significance of their Torah and their pivotal role in repairing the world. In this episode, I am joined by two remarkable guests, Lieutenant Joe Mabry and Specialist Solomon Kullman, who are at the forefront of the effort to prevent the realization of this prophecy by guiding their fellow Jews back to Hashem and His Torah.You may reach out to the host at Shema@torchweb.org. ★ Support this podcast ★
In previous episodes, I've discussed the idea that the purpose of Torah, mitzvos, and the various aspects of Halacha derived from the mitzvos is to expand and infuse into every facet of our lives, refining each moment into a binary choice to choose Hashem. However, this perspective is not entirely accurate as the realm of Halacha contains numerous uncertainties and consequently, divergent opinions. In this episode, I have the privilege of introducing you to the brilliant and insightful Rabbi Pill, who sheds light on the concept that those areas of ambiguity that Hashem deliberately wove into His Torah, serve as the very source of our most profound connection with Him.You may reach out to the host at Shema@torchweb.org. ★ Support this podcast ★
The essence of a suhhah is its shade. If there is more sun than shadow, it is invalid. 'In His shadow, I delighted there and there I sat, and the fruit of His Torah was sweet to my palate.' (2:3) בְּצִלּוֹ֙ חִמַּ֣דְתִּי וְיָשַׁ֔בְתִּי וּפִרְי֖וֹ מָת֥וֹק לְחִכִּֽי אֲוַז הַבָּר הַמְּשׁוֹטֶטֶתבַּמִּדְבָּר. כְּשֶׁרוֹאֵה אֶת יִשְׂרָאֵל עוֹסְקִיםבַּתּוֹרָה אוֹמֶרֶת. קוֹל קוֹרֵא בַּמִּדְבָּר,פָּנוּ דֶּרֶךְ יי, יַשְׁרוּ בַּעֲרָבָה מְסִלָּהלֶאֱלֹהֵינוּ, וְעַל מְצִיאוּת מְזוֹנוֹתֶיהָ בַּמִּדְבָּראוֹמֶרֶת. אָרוּר הַגֶּבֶר אַשֵּׁר יִבְטַח בָּאָדָם,בָּרוּךְ הַגֶּבֶר אֲשֶׁר יִבְטַח בְּיי וְהָיָהיי מִבְטָחוֹ: The Wild Goose flying in the wilderness, when it sees Yisra'el busy with Torah, is saying “A voice cries, Prepare in the wilderness the way of YHVH, make straight in the desert a path for our elo'ah. And upon finding its food in the wilderness, it says, “Cursed is the man who trusts in human beings…” Blessed is the man who trusts in YHVH, and YHVH shall be his assurance.”
Commit to G-d, The Rosh Hashanah Perspective The Rosh Hashanah Perspective is sponsored by the Pollak family in honor of the birth of their daughter, Emunah! May they continue to raise her in ways of G-d, His Torah and Mitzvahs! The Rosh Hashanah Perspective is in honor of the Refuah Shlema of HaRav Amitai Ben Shoshanna and Ruchma Leah Bas Sarah. May all those who need, experience a speedy and complete recovery with G-d's help. The Rosh Hashanah Perspective is in loving memory of Reuven Ben Yaakov, Leah Mintche Bas Yaakov Yosef, Edward Ben Efraim, Shlomo Ben Edward, and Yirachmiel Daniel Ben Gedalia. May their souls be uplifted and their memories a blessing. Click here to listen, watch and connect! Parshaperspective.com We are about to celebrate Rosh Hashanah and begin a new year on the day G-d created the first human beings, Adam and Chava. It is a time when G-d, in his Divine wisdom, sits on His holy throne as the fate of every being is decided. The sounds of the Shofar will blast as we crown G-d as our King, putting our faith and trust in His majesty and supreme sovereignty. Akeida's Yitzchak, the binding of Yitzchak, one of the most meaningful stories of all of Judaism. May we all be blessed with a year of purpose and meaning. A year of strength and health. A year of true happiness and prosperity!
Our parsha contains perhaps the most difficult Torah portion to read and digest: The Tochacha (Admonition). In it we are told the consequences of our deeds. If obey the Almighty and hearken to His commandments, He will reward us with bountiful blessings. Should we deviate from Him and repudiate His Torah, however, He promises to […]
Our parsha contains perhaps the most difficult Torah portion to read and digest: The Tochacha (Admonition). In it we are told the consequences of our deeds. If obey the Almighty and hearken to His commandments, He will reward us with bountiful blessings. Should we deviate from Him and repudiate His Torah, however, He promises to unleash all manner of suffering upon us. And it is brutal. Our Sages calculated that the Tochacha contains 98 distinct curses and maledictions. What is the message of these ferocious curses? In this special edition of The Parsha Podcast, we suggest a novel approach to understanding what the Torah wants of us.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –TORCH Podcasts SurveyTo participate in the TORCH Podcasts Survey, please click here or visit TORCHsurvey.com – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★
As we prepare for the holiday of Shavuos, I can't help but think about my own experiences and the significance of this joyous occasion. From shopping for new Yom Tov clothing for the kids to setting up our learning schedules for the night, we go all in to celebrate this holy holiday. But sometimes, amidst the hustle and bustle, we may overlook the true meaning and power of Shavuot. At the core of Shavuos, we find exuberant celebration and gratitude for being chosen by God to learn His Torah and walk in His ways. The Gemara says that on Shavuos, we all agree that we must celebrate with cheesecake and our parties because we should be proud of being chosen as children of God. I'll share a personal story about recognizing the significance and joy of our unique and special mission and how lucky we are to have been chosen by God. Don't miss this heartfelt reminder to rejoice, sing, and dance on Shavuos!Support the show-------------------The Weekly Parsha is a Torah Podcast that focuses on thought-provoking and energizing Divrei Torah on the week's Parsha. Stop asking, "What is this week's Parsha" and start telling your friends Divrei Torah on the week's Parsha. NEW! Watch our Torah WhatsApp status! WhatsApp the word "greatness" to (757)-679-4497 to watch the Status. ------------------Check out our other Torah Podcasts and content! Follow our Apple Podcast Channel! TMC Torah Podcast Network SUBSCRIBE to The Motivation Congregation Podcast for daily motivational mussar! Listen on Spotify or the new Jewish music and Podcast streaming platform 24six! Find all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our new website themotivationcongregation.org Questions or Comments? Please email me @ michaelbrooke97@gmail.com#parsha #shortdvartorah #thetorahpodcast #motivationalmussar
Sunday, 16 April 2023 So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and increased in number daily. Acts 16:5 The previous verse noted that Paul and his companions went through the cities and delivered the decrees of the council. With that, it now says, “So the churches were strengthened in the faith.” The verb, being imperfect, gives the sense of continuance. Thus, it more appropriately reads, “So the churches were strengthening in the faith.” In other words, it wasn't just that they were strengthened for the moment and then may have started to slide backward. Rather, because of the decrees of the council, they felt a freedom that encouraged them, and they continued strengthening as time passed by. This would be especially so when considering that the matter that was resolved dealt with them personally. Being Gentiles, any Scripture that they possessed would have highlighted the role of Israel and the Jewish people. To impose upon them the Law of Moses and circumcision would be to rob them of their culture and identity while leaving them among their own culture and people. But with the decision of the council, they would remain within the Christian faith but still be just who they were within their culture. The demands of the Judaizers would have robbed them of this. It would have started with circumcision, gone onto law observance, and soon enough they would be told how they still didn't fit in because they didn't speak or act like the other Jewish people. This is no stretch of the analysis at all. This even happened among the Jewish people as was evidenced in Acts 6 – “Now in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution.” Acts 6:1 If this type of prejudice arose among the Jews just because they didn't speak Hebrew or Aramaic, how much more would this become an issue with the Gentiles? The legalistic demands on them would never end. But with the encouragement of the letter and the words of these missionaries, they would continue to strengthen day by day in their faith. And more, others would see and be encouraged to join. As it says, they “increased in number daily.” With each passing day, and with the freedom from the fear of death found in Christ and freedom from the bondage of the law, the churches would realize that every answer to the longing of the human soul was to be found in a rightly established faith in Christ. This would appeal (and has for two thousand years has appealed) to those who “through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage” (Hebrews 2:15). Life application: Even today, reading the Old Testament might leave a non-Jewish person wondering what part or role they could have in the redemptive plans of God. If all there was of Scripture was the Old Testament, no answer to the problem of sin would have come, but more, only a total identity with national Israel – conforming to their standards and cultural practices – would bring about any state of communion with God as He is presented there. But more, there would only be identity with a group of people who had CONSTANTLY failed to measure up to the strict demands of their God. Yes, His grace and mercy upon them are evident, but so is His wrath and indignation. The bondage of the Jewish people, which they failed to realize hung over them, would be evident to anyone who properly studied their Scriptures. As such, anyone joining them would have to be a person who was filled with the pride of saying, “I can do what they have failed to do. I can please God through adherence to His law.” When this occurs, as it does to this day with such people, their religion is one based on self. Despite the supposed piety of saying, “I follow the God of Israel and keep His Torah,” there is nothing pious in the statement. The actions are based on self. Only when one submits to Christ and says, “Jesus Christ has made me right with God,” is there any true freedom at all. He has done it, He continues to do it, and He will carry us through to the very end. It is all about what Jesus has done. Put self aside! Trust in the work of Jesus. And then, forever and ever, praise the glorious name of Jesus Christ our Lord – to the glory of God. Lord God, thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord who alone has the power to save us and to keep on saving us, despite ourselves. Yes, O God, thank You for Jesus Christ our Lord. Hallelujah and Amen.
The protagonist of our parsha, Jethro, underwent a long and fruitful spiritual journey. When the journey began, Jethro was a idolater who worshipped every pagan deity in the world. At its conclusion, Jethro was give great distinction as a believer in God and a purveyor of His Torah. What went into that transformation? What is […]
The protagonist of our parsha, Jethro, underwent a long and fruitful spiritual journey. When the journey began, Jethro was a idolater who worshipped every pagan deity in the world. At its conclusion, Jethro was give great distinction as a believer in God and a purveyor of His Torah. What went into that transformation? What is […]
In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of Tu B'Shevat, the day of reinvigorating our connections with our ancestors, our children and future generations and most of all our creator and His Torah!This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #151) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!!*****To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.orgPlease visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you!For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.comRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 2, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 5, 2023 ★ Support this podcast ★
In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of Tu B'Shevat, the day of reinvigorating our connections with our ancestors, our children and future generations and most of all our creator and His Torah!This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #151) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!!*****To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.orgPlease visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. Thank you!For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.comRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 2, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 5, 2023 ★ Support this podcast ★ ★ Support this podcast ★