Podcasts about Judaism

Juan Mejia, a beloved guest in past episodes of Judaism Unbound (here's Episode 57 and Episode 387), is back! He joins Dan and Lex to reflect on conversion to Judaism -- what has changed in the past 10 years since he initially was a guest on Judaism Unbound, and what remains constant? What parallels can we observe between discourse about Jewish conversion, and discourse about immigration to the United States? What might any of this mean as we look not only at the past 10 years, but the next 10?---------------Looking to convert to Judaism yourself? Judaism Unbound has a class you can take to begin your journey! Enroll in Judaism Inbound, beginning on February 25th, 2026. Financial aid is available via this link. (And yes, this class is also open to any and all folks who are not looking to convert, but are still interested in an intro to Judaism course for any other reason!).----------------Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!Join the Judaism Unbound discord, where you can interact with fellow listeners all around the world, by heading to discord.judaismunbound.com. 

Hashem Speaks So We Can Hear

Does the Hebraic Roots movement mislead believers? In this video, we discuss how devotion can be misguided, especially concerning messianic Judaism and the law, often leading to false teachings. This bible teaching aims to provide clarity on matters of faith within Christianity, urging discernment for all believers in their theology.

Send us a textThe Rabbi Everyone Knows, From the Town Few Have Heard of: Rabbi Dovid EliezrieTo inquire about dedicating an episode - please email podcast@lubavitch.comDid you enjoy listening to this episode? Leave us a five-star review on the podcast platform and/or email us at Podcast@Lubavitch.com - we truly value your feedback!“The day he was diagnosed, I was also supposed to sign the contract for building my building. And I was in a moral dilemma what I should do.”  - Rabbi Dovid Eliezrie"I've been to his house, he's been to my house. And every often will say, "Okay, take off your Chabad hat, and my Young Israel hat. And what's good for the Jewish people?” And that's been our trademark." - Rabbi Pesach LernerProduced by: Gary Waleik & Shneur Brook for Lubavitch International/Lubavitch.com - A Project of Machne IsraelAvailable on all major podcast platforms - and online at Lubavitch.com/podcastSupport the show

In this very deep and thought provoking episode we begin to approach one of the most difficult undertakings any human in our generation must do. Face their own character traits. Can others really have an affect on our moods? Is there anyway to really gain the upper hand of our emotional well being? Let's begin...Also you get to hear how terrible of a person I am! its a crazy ride, Enjoy!

Human interactions can often times get messy. There are myriads of circumstances that require courts and judgements. The Fourth Order of Mishnah contains the books of law and judgement and, surprisingly, the authoritative work on ethics: Chapters of the Fathers (Pirkei Avos). This podcast will help you gain a brief overview on the Books of this Order, but never forget that this overview is barely scratching the surface. Very talented, intelligent, and diligent scholars in the yeshiva toil for years and years over a single one of these books. There is an infinite amount of wisdom in each one of these books. We are just getting the briefest of introductions. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

Human interactions can often times get messy. There are myriads of circumstances that require courts and judgements. The Fourth Order of Mishnah contains the books of law and judgement and, surprisingly, the authoritative work on ethics: Chapters of the Fathers (Pirkei Avos). This podcast will help you gain a brief overview on the Books of this Order, but never forget that this overview is barely scratching the surface. Very talented, intelligent, and diligent scholars in the yeshiva toil for years and years over a single one of these books. There is an infinite amount of wisdom in each one of these books. We are just getting the briefest of introductions. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 122), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the Gate of Falsehood (Sheker) from Orchos Tzaddikim and transitions toward the upcoming Gate of Truth. He explores the final categories of permissible "white lies" and strategies to avoid outright falsehood while maintaining peace or dignity:Pushing off requests without lying — If asked to lend something you don't want to give, don't say “I don't have it” (falsehood); instead, say “I'm not able to help right now” or “I'm busy.” Even small commitments (“I'll give you this”) must be honored—breaking them is covenant-like betrayal.False assurances — Promising benefit/gifts to gain trust, then reneging, incurs severe punishment (worse than vague lies).Boasting false qualities — Taking credit/praise for traits one lacks (or misusing true praise for self-glory) is theft of honor.Distorting heard facts — Even without gain/damage, altering details trains the tongue in sheker.Permitted “lies” — For peace (Aaron's method: telling quarreling parties the other regrets), praising a bride (even if not fully true), minimizing Torah knowledge, hospitality (don't publicize a gracious host to avoid exploitation), marital privacy (redirect questions), or small gifts (don't retract after promising).The rabbi stresses: falsehood distances from Hashem (Emet/truth); even “harmless” lies habituate deception. Best to divert/redirect questions rather than lie. Truth stands forever; sheker collapses. The episode ends previewing the Gate of Truth—Hashem's essence—and urging vigilance against rationalized lies.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on July 15, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 4, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #WhiteLies, #Truth, #Lies, #Rationalizations, #Sheker, #FalsePromises ★ Support this podcast ★

This week I have three stories for you. The first takes place at a tisch of the first Belzer Rebbe, where a single piece of fruit changes everything. The second follows a chassid of Rabbi Mordechai of Chernobyl who sets out on a long business journey carrying two etrogim — one for his Rebbe, one for the holy Ruzhiner. And the third is a story of the Baal Shem Tov, told on a wedding day, when a debt of one thousand rubles arrives at the worst possible moment. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/the-blessing-inside-the-curse To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

Why would a powerful, respected spiritual leader abandon comfort, status, and certainty to join a nation of former slaves in the desert?In this morning's class, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath explores the story of Jethro—not as ancient history, but as a living mirror. Through a surprising Talmudic question, we uncover what Jethro really heard that compelled him to move from observer to participant.This class weaves together three forces that define the Jewish story, irrational hatred, the moral genius of Torah, and the supernatural resilience of the Jewish people and asks a deeply personal question:What does Judaism ask of us when it's easier to stay comfortable?Jethro's journey challenges us to stop watching Jewish life from the sidelines and start stepping into it with intention, courage, and responsibility.KEY TAKEAWAYSBeing inspired is easy. Showing up changes everything.Irrational hatred is often the shadow cast by something deeply holy.Torah isn't just tradition, it's a radical moral framework that reshaped civilization.Jewish survival defies history, logic, and probability.You don't need to be born into greatness, but you do need to choose it.Judaism isn't meant to be admired from a distance, it's meant to be lived.The real question isn't what did Jethro hear? It's what are we hearing—and what are we doing about it?#Jewish #Judaism #Torah #Bible #BibleStudy #TorahLessons  #Jethro #FromFanToPlayer #JewishIdentity #TorahLife #PurposeOverComfort #LivingJudaism #JewishResilience #WhyBeJewish #KabbalahForEveryone #RabbiBernath #JewishNDG #MeaningOverConvenience #StepIntoTheStory Available now:Paperback (US): https://www.amazon.com/Forgiveness-Experiment-What-Would-Your/dp/1069217638Paperback (Canada): https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1069217638Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR2QNJL6Support the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

Have you switched the light on in your faith? Drawing from Matthew 5 and the Sermon on the Mount, Dr. Sri explores what Jesus truly meant when He called His disciples to be salt of the earth and light of the world. Unpacking the historical world of first-century Judaism—with its political turmoil, Roman oppression, and competing religious responses—Dr. Sri emphasizes Jesus' powerful message centered on wholehearted surrender to God. _ _ For full shownotes, visit Ascensionpress.com/Allthingscatholic, or text ALLTHINGSCATHOLIC to 33-777 for weekly shownotes sent to your inbox.

The arrival of Jethro, the preparation for Sinai, and the nature of the Sinai revelation - these are some of the subjects featured in our parsha. In this very special and atypically extemporaneous Parsha podcast, we offer four interesting ideas: one on the unique route that Jethro took to the truth; one on the particular form of pleasure that Torah bestows upon those who learn it; a supremely clever idea on the boundaries placed around Mount Sinai; and a fascinating observation on the splitting of the sea and the splitting of the heavens.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 121), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the Gate of Falsehood (Sheker) from Orchos Tzaddikim, detailing the final categories of liars and emphasizing the Torah's command to distance oneself from all falsehood ("midvar sheker tirchak").The rabbi reviews the nine types of falsehood:Obvious lies, subtle forgeries, sophisticated rationalizations."White lies" (inconsequential exaggerations) that curry favor or lower guards.Lies to steal potential benefit (e.g., poaching clients).Distorting heard facts for no gain/damage.False promises/assurances (e.g., "I'll give you this" without intent).Leading someone to trust falsely, then breaking it (breaking a covenant-like bond).Taking praise for unpossessed qualities (even true praise can be misused).Lies about what was heard, changing facts to suit needs.Key lessons: Falsehood distances one from Hashem (Emet/truth); even "harmless" lies train the tongue for worse deception. Rav's story warns against teaching children to reverse words—even for "good" reasons—as it habituates falsehood. Punishment varies by severity, but all lies harm soul and others. The chapter ends urging vigilance: purge traits that rationalize lies to attain pure truth.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on July 15, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 3, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #WhiteLies, #Truth, #Lies, #Rationalizations, #Sheker, #FalsePromises ★ Support this podcast ★

B”H Is Astrology part of Judaism? Are we allowed to use it? If so, how do we use it? In today's conversation we explore: What is kosher astrology, and of course, what isn't it? How can you use it to maximize your potential, and live a life of real alignment with your soul's mission? And of course — that leads us right into our money — can kosher astrology tell you how much money you or your business is going to make? No. But, don't give up on me just yet, because what astrology can do for you, is going to be so much more valuable; and might actually give you the push to unleash your earnings potential. Rabbi Yitzchok Pinkesz is the Author of Kosher Astrology: A Jewish Guide to Celestial Wisdom. Rabbi Pinkesz is a Torah-observant astrologer who has been practicing astrology in accordance with the Torah for over 15 years. His fascination with personal transformation led to extensive research in Jewish philosophy, psychology, and astrology. Buckle up because the topic of this conversation is on the one hand really out there, and on the other hand it can be something that really grounds us. So if you're going through a time where you feel like you're all over the place, or you’re stumbling, or feeling like you're fumbling in the dark, or you're being really challenged in a particular way, I think you will find this conversation really comforting. I never imagined saying those words about astrology. But, alas here we are. Here's Rabbi Yitzchok Pinkesz. You can find the book on Amazon or on his website kosherastro.com where you can also learn more, and even sign up for a Birth Chart Reading. The post 455: Kosher Astrology on Mazel, Mission & Money with Rabbi Yitzchok Pinkesz appeared first on Yael Trusch.

Mistakes are endemic to the human condition. All humans make mistakes. Even the titans of our history like Moshe, Aaron, and Joshua made mistakes. Only God is error-free. In this interesting - and maybe a tad controversial - podcast, we take a look at the unusual path of ascent of Moshe's successor, Joshua. Joshua was not a flawless wunderkind who could do no wrong. In fact, in each one of the narratives surrounding Joshua in the Torah, we can find some sort of misstep that Joshua did. Evidently, Joshua's path to ascent relied on those missteps, and his story shows us a different way to achieve transcendental greatness. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 120), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the Gate of Falsehood (Sheker) from Orchos Tzaddikim, exploring the second type of lie: the "white lie" or seemingly harmless falsehood (e.g., exaggeration for story enhancement, inconsequential fibs). Even when no one is hurt and no gain is sought, such lies are forbidden—because they stem from a desire to curry favor, build trust falsely, lower someone's guard, or gain advantage through deception.The rabbi cites King Solomon: a lying tongue is an abomination to kings—true leaders despise falsehood. The wise person weighs every statement carefully, rejecting even "small" lies that distort reality or make falsehood appear true. Sophisticated rationalizations often justify lies, but purging bad traits (arrogance, laziness, etc.) allows pure truth to emerge.The chapter stresses: falsehood distances one from Hashem (who is Emet/truth), harms others indirectly (steals dignity, causes pain/discord), and collapses over time (sheker has one leg; emet stands on two). The episode ends with a preview of the next types of falsehood (e.g., denying deposits, false testimony) and their double punishment.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on July 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 2, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #WhiteLies, #Truth, #Lies, #Rationalizations, #JewishEthics ★ Support this podcast ★

Everything we thought we knew about women in the Bible was shaped by centuries of erasure. In this groundbreaking episode, I sit down with Professor Tal Ilan, one of the world's leading historians on Jewish women in late antiquity, to uncover the real lives of women in the first century. From synagogue leaders to economic powerhouses, from temple participation to early Christian leadership, Prof. Ilan reveals the evidence that's been hiding in plain sight. Her research in the Lexicon of Jewish Names and the Feminist Commentary on the Babylonian Talmud Project has reshaped how scholars understand women's roles in ancient Judaism, and this conversation will transform how you read the New Testament.This isn't just history. This is about recovering the stories that were written out of Scripture and discovering what happens when we put them back in. Prof. Ilan walks us through inscriptions, archaeological evidence, and ancient texts that prove Jewish women held far more agency, influence, and leadership than we've been taught. And when we apply that context to figures like Mary Magdalene, Phoebe, Priscilla, and Junia, the New Testament comes alive in ways you've never seen before.In this episode you will learn:- Why 70% of the "silent, secluded woman" image is historically accurate, but the 30% that isn't changes everything- The archaeological evidence of women as synagogue leaders, donors, and patrons throughout the ancient Jewish world- How women participated in temple festivals, sacred spaces, and religious life in ways that contradict common assumptions- Why Mary Magdalene may actually be the founder of Christianity based on her role in the resurrection narrative- The truth about female apostles like Junia, Phoebe, and Priscilla and what their leadership tells us about early Christianity- How the destruction of the temple actually reduced women's religious participation compared to earlier periods- Why Paul's list of resurrection witnesses deliberately excluded women, and what that reveals about early Christian politics- The connection between Jesus's inclusive ministry and the women who became his closest followers- How rabbinic Judaism developed partly in response to Christianity's "New Testament" model- What modern Christians are missing when they read the Bible without understanding first-century Jewish women's real livesConnect with Prof. Tal Ilan:Prof. Ilan's groundbreaking work includes:The Lexicon of Jewish Names in Late AntiquityIntegrating Women into Second Temple HistorySUBSCRIBE TO THE DIG IN PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thejohnnyovaCONNECT WITH JOHNNY OVAAll Things Johnny: https://linktr.ee/johnnyovaGet Johnny's Book, The Revelation Reset: https://a.co/d/hiUkW8H

Sponsored by the Kolatch Family in honor of the 10th Yahrzeit of Dr. Robin Goldman, Riza bas Tzvi Yaakov

What are Israelis listening to RIGHT NOW? We consider it our solemn responsibility to connect you to the hottest sounds of TODAY - so each month, we make sure to bring you the latest and greatest tunes coming out of the Holy Land. This week, we present new Israeli music that's inspirational, sentimental, pratiotic, thought-provoking, and just plain wacky. We're also excited to introduce you to the artist representing Israel in Eurovision 2026 this May. You're sure to love it all! (Original Air Date: February 1, 2026) Full YouTube playlist at https://tinyurl.com/yd6hxup2 Bring Josh Shron, 'Israel's Soundtrack Storyteller,' to your community, and help spread the joy of Israeli music around the world! Visit https://www.joshshron.com/ Love the show? Please help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership

The most significant event in all of human history is the Revelation at Sinai, which occurs in Parshas Yisro. Prior to that monumental experience and the conveyance of the Ten Commandments, Moshe's father in law, Jethro, arrived at the camp and makes an important suggestion for improving the efficiency of the judicial process.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

In this Jewish Inspiration Podcast episode (Day 119), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins the Gate of Falsehood (Sheker) from Orchos Tzaddikim, emphasizing the Torah's command: "Distance yourself from falsehood" (midvar sheker tirchak). Falsehood is weighed like gold and silver—requiring careful discernment between truth and lies.The rabbi outlines types of falsehood: obvious lies (e.g., calling a tree gold), subtle forgeries (copper made to look like gold), and sophisticated rationalizations that make lies appear true. Wise people distinguish truth from falsehood in their hearts, rejecting self-serving justifications driven by negative traits (arrogance, laziness, anger, love/hate).The chapter warns that falsehood distances one from Hashem (who is truth: "Hashem Elokeinu Emet") and harms others (e.g., false testimony, slander causing pain or discord). Even when no personal gain exists, lying reflects "crookedness of heart." The rabbi stresses purging bad traits to attain pure truth—rationalizations often justify evil behavior.The episode concludes with the first category of liars (denying deposits, false testimony) and their double punishment: separation from Hashem and damage to others. Next time: deeper categories of falsehood.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on July 8, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Falsehood, #Sheker, #Truth, #Lies ★ Support this podcast ★

The Seven Attributes of Jesus (Christology 1)Big Idea: Jesus Christ is not just a chapter in the story of God; He is the Author, the Hero, and the Ending. When we see Jesus for who He truly is, every other priority in our lives finds its proper place.Today we begin a nine-week journey through the Book of Hebrews, a letter written to magnify the greatness of Jesus Christ. Hebrews isn't primarily about religious rules, moral improvement, or spiritual techniques. It's about Jesus—who He is and what He has done. Everything else flows from that foundation.The original audience was likely Jewish Christians living under Roman rule, facing intense persecution. As pressure mounted, many were tempted to abandon their faith in Jesus and return to the familiarity and safety of traditional Judaism. Hebrews speaks directly into that tension with one clear message: Jesus is greater than anyone or anything that came before Him. To walk away from Him would be to walk away from the fulfillment of all God's promises.The author of Hebrews remains anonymous, one of the great mysteries of the New Testament. While Paul may have influenced it, the writing style is far more polished and rhetorically sophisticated than Paul's letters. Hebrews chapter 1 proves this immediately. Verses 1–4 form a single, majestic sentence in the original Greek—an exordium, designed to grab attention with both beauty and weight.Hebrews 1:1–4 (NLT) sets the stage:“Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son…”In the Old Testament, God spoke in fragments—a dream here, a burning bush there, a prophet's warning along the way. But in Jesus, God didn't just send messages; He sent the Message. This is Christology—the study of the person and work of Jesus Christ—and Hebrews wastes no time getting to the point.In verses 2–3, the author unleashes a rapid-fire description of Jesus using seven distinct attributes. In Scripture, the number seven represents completeness and perfection. Together, these form a full portrait of the Son.Jesus is the Heir—the goal of history. God has promised everything to Him as an inheritance. History is not random; it is moving toward the coronation of King Jesus. He is the “why” behind all creation.Jesus is the Creator—the architect of reality. Through Him, God made the universe. Jesus is not a created being; He is the source of all things. Nothing exists apart from His will.Jesus is the Radiance—the shining glory of God. He doesn't merely reflect God's glory like the moon reflects sunlight; He radiates it. The Son is the visible manifestation of the invisible God—“Light from Light.”Jesus is the Expression—the exact imprint of God's nature. The Greek word charaktēr refers to a stamp or seal. Jesus doesn't resemble God; He perfectly represents Him. To see Jesus is to see God.Jesus is the Sustainer—the glue of the cosmos. He holds everything together by the power of His word. The universe doesn't persist on autopilot; it endures because Jesus commands it to.Jesus is the Savior—the cleanser of sin. When He purified us from our sins, the work was finished. Unlike Old Testament priests who never sat down, Jesus completed the work once for all.Finally, Jesus is the Ruler—the seated King. He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven, a position of total authority. The victory is won.Hebrews 1:4 reminds us that Jesus is far greater than angels, traditions, or anything else we might be tempted to trust. For believers facing hardship, this truth re-centers everything.The message of Hebrews is clear:...

 The Word That Endures Forever: Creeds, Canon, and the Test of Doctrinal Consistency  In this foundational teaching, Jacob Prasch examines the nature of biblical Christianity by contrasting the unchanging authority of Scripture with the evolving doctrines of religion. Beginning with the early creeds—the Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed—he explains how the “line of faith” preserved essential Christian truth before the New Testament canon was fully written and recognized. From there, the message traces a consistent biblical warning against adding to or subtracting from God's Word, drawing on Deuteronomy, Proverbs, Isaiah, the Gospels, the Epistles, and Revelation. Prasch argues that while Scripture remains coherent and self-consistent, false expressions of Judaism, Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, Islam, Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, and modern ecumenical and emergent movements are marked by progressive doctrinal invention and internal contradiction. By documenting historical developments, shifting dogmas, and extra-biblical authorities, the teaching exposes religion as man's attempt to reach God, in contrast to the gospel—God's unchanging revelation reaching fallen humanity. The message concludes with a clear test of truth: what is from God remains consistent, but what adds to His Word will inevitably prove unstable, contradictory, and false. This teaching was originally taught on RTN TV's "Word for the Weekend" on July 6, 2024 and can be found on RTN and Moriel's YouTube and ministry channels. Word for the Weekend streams live every Saturday. See RTNTV.org for more information.

What is Jewish placemaking, and why might it matter to the present and future of Jewish education? Beverly Socher-Lerner, founder and executive director of Makom Community in Philadelphia, joins Dan and Lex to explore that question. This episode is the second in a mini-series exploring Jewish education, following up on a recent Judaism Unbound episode featuring Leah Robbins, founder of Achvat Olam Community Day School.Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!Join the Judaism Unbound discord, where you can interact with fellow listeners all around the world, by heading to discord.judaismunbound.com. 

Hearing Hashem's Voice

In this episode I look at Messianic rabbi Jonathan Cahn and some of his teaching methods. I explain how he uses story telling and mythology similar to rabbinic Judaism's aggadic midrashim to make his false prophetic claims as well as borrowing some of the methods of the Kabbalistic teachers. I also briefly touch on some of the names in mainstream Christian and Alt. Christian media who promote him and those false non-biblical teachings and touch on the Nephilim Grifters in Alt. Christian media to boot!  Cheers and Blessing! Support Oddman  https://www.patreon.com/theoddmanout   Buy Me A Coffee! https://buymeacoffee.com/theoddmanout   Venmo Tips - @theoddmanout   Cash App Tips -  https://cash.app/$theoddmanout     T-shirts, Mugs and Stickers  The Odd Man Out Merch Store At Bonfire  https://www.bonfire.com/store/the-odd-man-out/   TeeSpring  https://theoddmanout.creator-spring.com/   All Links  https://linktr.ee/_theoddmanout   Oddman Rumble  https://rumble.com/user/TheOddManOut   The Book- Debunking Jonathan Cahn By: Research, Advanced Apologetics https://www.amazon.com/Debunking-Jonathan-Cahn-Comprehensive-Harbingers-ebook/dp/B0DP5FST9B   https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/debunking-jonathan-cahn--3-a-comprehensive-critique-of-the-harbingers-i--ii/54260159/#edition=72153842&idiq=74047331   Please check out my Podcasting Family over at Alternate Current Radio. You will find a plethora of fantastic talk, and music shows including the flagship Boiler Room, as well as The Daily Ruckus! https://alternatecurrentradio.com/   Fringe Radio Network- Radio on the Fringe!   http://fringeradionetwork.com   Social Media: _theoddmanout on X, and Instagram       Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/oddman.out.181923 https://www.facebook.com/theoddcastfttheoddmanout   Intro Song Diabolitical Man By Odd Man Out.   Listen or Download Here: We Are The Conspiracy Songs | ReverbNation  http://reverbnation.com/wearetheconspiracy   A special Thank You to my supporters who contributed to this episode. You are very much appreciated.       Their Order Is Not Our Order!

In this Parshas Beshalach review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the splitting of the Red Sea—the ultimate miracle of the Exodus—and its profound lessons for daily life. The parsha recounts the Jewish people's escape from Egypt, Nachshon's leap of faith into the raging waters (reaching his nostrils before the sea split), and the dry land amid the sea.The rabbi contrasts two phrasings in the Torah: "they crossed in the midst of the sea on dry land" vs. "they walked on dry land amid the raging sea." This teaches that we must recognize miracles even within chaos—the world is always a "raging sea" of challenges, yet Hashem provides dry land (miracles) constantly. Failing to notice open miracles (e.g., recent Israeli survivals despite missiles) makes ordinary miracles fade into routine.Everything is from Hashem: health, livelihood (manna-like), technology (discoveries, not inventions), and survival. We must live with awe—never let miracles become ordinary. Daily mitzvot (Shema, blessings, Shabbos) remind us of the Exodus and Hashem's constant hand. The rabbi urges gratitude for life itself ("life is the miracle, not death") and seeing the divine in all creation._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 27, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 30, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Beshalach, #SplittingTheSea, #RedSea, #Miracle, #HashemControls, #DailyAwe, #Mindset ★ Support this podcast ★

When a person is near the end of their life loved ones are often faced with some of the most difficult issues they will ever face as a family. No matter what the circumstance, all of us want those we care about to live, and to die, on their terms.Making that happen often the responsibility of people like Dr. Howard Stein, Medical Director of Bioethics at Centrastate Hospital in Freehold, who joined Rabbi Pont this week for a wide reaching conversation about bioethics, New Jersey's Medical Aid in Dying Act, and how to help families and patients go through these horrible moments with dignity.

Mazel morons! This week, we are extremely topical- Kanye's apology letter and the wild unsealed texts blowing up the Blake Lively vs. Justin Baldoni case. We break down everything from forgiveness in Judaism to whether Alex Honnold should be paid $25M to climb a building without a harness.Then, our favorite legal expert Lawyer Limor Mojdehiazad joins us to unpack the ICE investigation, Taylor Swift's viral texts, the Baldoni/Lively mess, and the devastating Nick Reiner case. It's a chaotic, sharp, and surprisingly heartfelt deep dive into the biggest legal stories of the week. Love y'all, and we hope you love us too. Otherwise, what are ya nuts?!Leave us a voicemail here!Follow us on Instagram and TikTok! Sponsors:Go to DRINKAG1.COM/GOODGUYS to get their best offer… get 3 FREE AG1 Travel Packs and 3 FREE AGZ Travel Packs, plus FREE Vitamin D3+K2 and AG1 Welcome Kit with your first AG1 subscription order! Get organized, refreshed, and back on track this new year for WAY less. Head to Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.Wayfair. Every style.Every home.For a limited time, Home Chef is offering my listeners FIFTY PERCENT OFF and free shipping for your first box PLUS free dessert for life! Go to HomeChef.com/GOODGUYS. Must be an active subscriber to receive free dessert.Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The nation emerged from Egypt triumphantly. Pharaoh was talking a big game. "Who is God that I should listen to him? I'm not going to release the Israelites!" But he was humbled before God one plague at a time. With the death of the firstborn at the stroke of midnight, Pharaoh buckled. He begged, he coaxed, he urged, he pleaded with the Israelites to leave. The coast is now clear. The enemies are behind us. Certainly, the entire nation expected smooth sailing. But Egypt reared its ugly head once again. The entire Parsha is a series of challenges that arose in the aftermath of the Exodus. Twice the nation was stranded without water, their food supply ran out as well, and they were attacked and ambushed by the nation of Amaleik. In this very special Parsha Podcast, we go backstage and learn several profound lessons about the nature and mechanism of transformative change, the process by which bitter is rendered sweet, and the unique and counterintuitive way that we can have cosmic influence.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –This Parsha Podcast is dedicated in loving memory and leilui nishmas Baruch Yochanan Ben Reb Ephraim Fischel, Dr. Bertram John Newman, dedicated by the Newman, Shapiro, Grossman, and Yudelson families. May his Soul be elevated in Heaven.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

Even with all of the challenges in the world today Jewish education must strive to emphasize the joy and celebration of what it means to be Jewish in today's world. The Bible Players are experts at bringing laughter and joy to Jewish education, from using improvisation to teach mitzvot, to playing their own version of Rock, Paper, Scissors (“Candle, Cup, Challah, Bless”) to teach the order of Shabbat.  This week, enjoy a conversation between David Bryfman and Andrew Davies, co-founder of The Bible Players, and recipient of The Jewish Education Project's Young Pioneers Award and The Covenant Foundation's Pomegranate Prize. Hear from Andrew on why holding both the “joy” and the “oy” is essential in Jewish education, and how he brings that balance to their learners. To learn more about The Bible Players, visit thebibleplayers.com.Learn more about The Jewish Education Project at jewishedproject.orgThis episode was produced by Miranda Lapides and Rina Cohen Schwarz. The show's executive producers are David Bryfman, Karen Cummins, and Nessa Liben. This episode was engineered and edited by Nathan J. Vaughan of NJV Media. If you enjoyed the show, please leave us a 5-star rating and review, or even better, share it with a friend. Be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and be the first to know when new episodes are released. To learn more about The Jewish Education Project visit jewishedproject.org where you can find links to our Jewish Educator Portal and learn more about our mission, history, and staff. We are a proud partner of UJA-Federation of New York. 

In this Ask Away #28 episode of Everyday Judaism, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers live and emailed questions on practical halacha and deeper Jewish life:Netilat yadayim technique — One continuous flow is ideal; your wrist-to-fingers method is fine if uninterrupted.Running water / faucets — Requires human force (koach gavra); turn faucet on/off repeatedly so first spurt washes each hand.Morning blessings order — Body needs first (restroom), then wash hands + Al Netilat Yadayim, Asher Yatzar, Elokai Neshama (attach them); Modeh Ani immediately upon waking.Aliyah in current times — Massive wave of aliyah is real and prophetic; if livelihood transfers easily, move (great mitzvah—every moment/step in Eretz Yisrael is a mitzvah); if not, stay and be intentional (e.g., spread Torah, as Rabbi does in Houston). Cultural/language barriers for children over 6 are real; prepare spiritually (Torah growth, closeness to Hashem) for Moshiach—have a "go bag" ready.Tattoos & henna — Tattoos forbidden biblically; henna generally permitted (ask rabbi); neither blocks hand-washing unless substantial chatzitzah.Infidelity & King Solomon — Torah forbids casual intimacy outside marriage; Solomon's 1,000 wives/concubines is a cautionary tale—he later warns against it. Rabbinic decree limits men to one wife at a time. Modern promiscuity/infidelity rises with internet; use filters/accountability, delete temptations, prioritize emotional depth via niddah laws.Shabbat automatic toilets — Triggering sensors is problematic (creative labor); if unavoidable, some poskim permit as gram/indirect; best avoid or use manual options.Finding a rabbi — Pursue actively (run after them); persistence (e.g., persistent voicemails) works; rabbi guides halacha/life; don't wait for one to chase you.The rabbi shares personal stories (mikvah healing soul-leaving sensation, persistent rabbi outreach) and stresses intentional Judaism, community, and using modern tools for good while guarding against harm.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #82) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 29, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Mikvah, #Rabbi, #Tzedakah ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Ask Away #28 episode of Everyday Judaism, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers live and emailed questions on practical halacha and deeper Jewish life:Netilat yadayim technique — One continuous flow is ideal; your wrist-to-fingers method is fine if uninterrupted.Running water / faucets — Requires human force (koach gavra); turn faucet on/off repeatedly so first spurt washes each hand.Morning blessings order — Body needs first (restroom), then wash hands + Al Netilat Yadayim, Asher Yatzar, Elokai Neshama (attach them); Modeh Ani immediately upon waking.Aliyah in current times — Massive wave of aliyah is real and prophetic; if livelihood transfers easily, move (great mitzvah—every moment/step in Eretz Yisrael is a mitzvah); if not, stay and be intentional (e.g., spread Torah, as Rabbi does in Houston). Cultural/language barriers for children over 6 are real; prepare spiritually (Torah growth, closeness to Hashem) for Moshiach—have a "go bag" ready.Tattoos & henna — Tattoos forbidden biblically; henna generally permitted (ask rabbi); neither blocks hand-washing unless substantial chatzitzah.Infidelity & King Solomon — Torah forbids casual intimacy outside marriage; Solomon's 1,000 wives/concubines is a cautionary tale—he later warns against it. Rabbinic decree limits men to one wife at a time. Modern promiscuity/infidelity rises with internet; use filters/accountability, delete temptations, prioritize emotional depth via niddah laws.Shabbat automatic toilets — Triggering sensors is problematic (creative labor); if unavoidable, some poskim permit as gram/indirect; best avoid or use manual options.Finding a rabbi — Pursue actively (run after them); persistence (e.g., persistent voicemails) works; rabbi guides halacha/life; don't wait for one to chase you.The rabbi shares personal stories (mikvah healing soul-leaving sensation, persistent rabbi outreach) and stresses intentional Judaism, community, and using modern tools for good while guarding against harm.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #82) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 29, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Mikvah, #Rabbi, #Tzedakah ★ Support this podcast ★

REM-SS85-08 The Torah tells that as Beneh Yisrael stood at the shores of the sea, and they saw the Egyptian army pursuing them, they cried out to G-d – "Va'yis'aku Beneh Yisrael El Hashem" (14:10). Rashi comments: "Tafesu Umanut Abotam" – "They took hold of their forefathers' craft." Meaning, Beneh Yisrael here followed the example set for them by the patriarchs, who likewise prayed to G-d. Rashi then proceeds to cite verses from the Book of Bereshit showing that the three patriarchs – Abraham, Yishak and Yaakob – prayed. When reading Rashi's brief remark, we must wonder what point he wishes to make, which difficulty in the text he is trying to resolve. Why must we be informed that Beneh Yisrael's prayers at the shores of the sea followed the patriarchs' example? How does this enhance our understanding of the text? Probing a bit deeper, Rashi's comments become even more perplexing. As mentioned, Rashi cites verses that speak of the patriarchs praying. Surprisingly, however, Rashi specifically does not cite the more obvious sources of the patriarchs' prayers. Instead of pointing to Abraham's prayer on behalf of the city of Sedom, Rashi instead brings the verse that tells of Abraham returning the next day to the spot where he had prayed for Sedom (Bereshit 19:27). Instead of noting Yishak's prayer for a child, Rashi instead cites the Torah's vague description of Yishak "conversing" in the field (Bereshit 24:63), which the Sages interpret as a reference to prayer. And instead of mentioning Yaakob's plea for help when Esav was approaching with an army, Rashi brings the verse that tells of Yaakob's evening "encounter" ("Va'yifga" – 28:11), which is understood to mean that he prayed. Why did Rashi not cite the clearest references to the patriarchs' prayers? More generally, why did Rashi need to bring textual proof to the fact that our righteous Abot (patriarchs) prayed? Do we not already know this? The Lubavitcher Rebbe (Rav Menachem Mendel Schneerson, 1902-1994) answered all these questions by establishing that Beneh Yisrael's cries were not actual cries for help. We must remember that these events transpired after G-d had brought the powerful Egyptian Empire to its knees with ten miraculous plagues, after Moshe had informed the people that G-d was bringing them to their homeland, and after they had taken the Egyptians' possessions with them to bring to the Holy Land. They knew that G-d would help them and save them from the pursuing Egyptian army. They did not have a doubt. (Although the Torah relates that the people turned to Moshe in panic, asking why he had taken them out of Egypt to perish, Rashi explains that this was a different group than the group who responded by praying.) They had complete faith in G-d. This was the point that Rashi wished to clarify – that the people prayed even though they were confident that they would be saved. These prayers were not a prayer for help, for rather "Umanut Abotam" – the "craft" taught to them by their forebears. A person with a profession goes to work every day. He doesn't show up only when he runs out of money; he knows that he needs to tend to his profession consistently. The same is true of our connection to Hashem. We cannot build this connection only by turning to him when we face some kind of problem. We need to practice the "craft," or "profession," of prayer each and every day, even when we have no particular, pressing issue that concerns us. This is what Rashi is teaching us. Beneh Yisrael turned to Hashem in prayer not because they were frightened, but rather because prayer was an "Umanut" – a "profession," something that they knew they must consistently do. And they learned this "profession" from the patriarchs. Abraham prayed even after Sedom was destroyed, when he could no longer save the city. Yishak prayed in the field regularly. And Yaakob prayed before going to sleep. These weren't prayers for help, but rather part of the Abot's ongoing, persistent efforts to build their relationship with Hashem. This is the "profession" that they taught us, and that we must follow. The Lubavitcher Rebbe applied this idea to the Misva of Torah study. This obligation is not limited to practical knowledge. It goes without saying that in order to practice Judaism properly, we must learn and familiarize ourselves with Halacha, and practical Halacha must certainly take priority in our Torah curricula. However, this is not the sole objective of Torah study. We are required to learn as much as we can even about subjects that are not practically applicable. Torah learning is not only about knowledge, but also about our connection to Hashem who gave us the Torah. When we pray and learn Torah not only in moments of need, but with constancy and devotion, we cultivate a living, daily bond with Hashem – and this is the lifelong, sacred "profession" which we've inherited from our righteous forebears.

This week I have three stories for you. The first about a blessing the Rebbe Rayatz gave and how it found its way home, the second about the Lubavitcher Rebbe's concern for Jewish prisoners on Chanukah and the last a meeting of Ambassador Yehuda Avner and the Lubavitcher Rebbe. If you're enjoying these Chassidic stories, please take a quick moment to buy me a coffee. https://ko-fi.com/barakhullman Thank you! I deeply appreciate your support! Also available at https://soundcloud.com/barak-hullman/i-gave-you-the-match To become a part of this project or sponsor an episode please go to https://hasidicstory.com/be-a-supporter. Hear all of the stories at https://hasidicstory.com. Go here to hear my other podcast https://jewishpeopleideas.com or https://soundcloud.com/jewishpeopleideas. Find my books, Figure It Out When You Get There: A Memoir of Stories About Living Life First and Watching How Everything Falls Into Place and A Shtikel Sholom: A Student, His Mentor and Their Unconventional Conversations on Amazon by going to https://bit.ly/barakhullman. My classes in Breslov Chassidus, Likutey Moharan, can be found here https://www.youtube.com/@barakhullman/videos I also have a YouTube channel of ceramics which can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/@thejerusalempotter

Luke 15:4 Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn't he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?Luke 15:8 Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins[a] and loses one. Doesn't she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it?Luke 15:11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.' So he divided his property between them 13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.In the storytelling world of first-century Judaism, repetition with variation was a way of signaling that something deeper was unfolding. — Tim KellerIn the cultural world of Jesus' listeners, the most glaring absence in the story of the prodigal is not the missing son, it is the missing pursuit of the older brother. In a patriarchal household, the father did not chase shame. He bore it, but he did not run after it.That responsibility belonged to the eldest son. The older brother was meant to leave the house, seek out his sibling, restore the family's honor, and mediate reconciliation. That was his role. That was his duty.Genesis 4:9 Am I my brother's keeper?Romans 8:29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.Luke 19:10 For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.Romans 8:29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.

We take the next step in the amazing book 'What the Angels Taught You' by beginning to delve into the concept of knowledge of absolute truths. We establish some troubling facts about the elusive goal of emotional well-being based on the terrific book 'Real Power' and make a decison about the next few classes direction. Enjoy  

In this Prayer Podcast episode (Part 2 of Baruch She'amar), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his deep dive into the opening blessing of Pesukei Dezimra. He explains the prayer's two parts: the introductory praises (10 praises corresponding to creation's 10 utterances and the 10 Commandments) and the actual blessing. Drawing from the Rokach and other commentaries, the rabbi reveals profound secrets:Baruch She'amar V'haya Ha'olam — Hashem spoke the world into existence (yesh me'ayin); everything was created in one utterance, then revealed gradually over time.Baruch Hu — The world exists to glorify Hashem's Name.Baruch Oseh Bereishis — Hashem renews creation every single day (present tense verbs emphasize ongoing miracles).Baruch Omer V'oseh — What Hashem decrees immediately happens.Baruch Gozer Umekayem — Decrees (even difficult ones) are fulfilled, yet Hashem sustains us through them.Baruch Merachem Al Ha'aretz / Al Ha'briyot — Hashem shows compassion on the earth and every creature.Baruch Meshaleim Sochar Tov Li're'av — Hashem rewards the righteous eternally (in the World to Come), while the wicked get their reward in this world.Baruch Chai La'ad V'kayam Lanetzach — Hashem was, is, and will be forever (YKVK = past, present, future).Baruch Podeh U'matzil — Hashem redeems and rescues from every challenge.Baruch Shemo — Blessed is His Name, despite being hidden.The rabbi connects this to the parsha (Va'era), where Hashem reveals Himself as the Redeemer ("Ani Hashem") and performs miracles to prove His sovereignty. He stresses living with awe: see daily miracles (body, nature, modern survivals in Israel) as ongoing creation and love from Hashem—never let them become routine._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 27, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 28, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #BaruchSheamar, #VersesOfPraise, #13Attributes, #JewishPrayer ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode, we explore how life's challenges are not setbacks or punishments, but invitations to activate strengths already embedded within us. Together with Rabbi Michael Cohen, we examine Rav Dessler's understanding of mercy, testing, and inherited spiritual capacity, and how these ideas can change the way you experience difficulty. You'll gain a clearer way to face pressure without feeling broken or defeated, learn how to recognize when inner resistance is not “who you are,” and understand how integrity and lived choices reshape your inner world. If you've ever wondered why challenges keep appearing or how to stay aligned with truth when life pushes back, this episode offers a grounded framework for moving forward with clarity and confidence.Join the Conversation! Be part of our growing community—join the Shema Podcast for the Perplexed WhatsApp group to share feedback, discuss episodes, and suggest future topics. Click here to sign up.Connect with Rabbi Michael CohenReach out to Rabbi Michael Cohen to learn more about his one-on-one coaching work, where he applies the teachings of Strive for Truth to help individuals untangle inner confusion, clarify priorities, and live more grounded, self-expressed lives. To inquire or connect, email him at mailto:rabbicohen@msn.com. 

Rabbi Avi Havivi's siddur class at Temple Beth Am Los Angeles via Zoom - January 27, 2026Special Guest: Rabbi Avi Havivi.

In this Prayer Podcast episode (Part 2 of Baruch She'amar), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his deep dive into the opening blessing of Pesukei Dezimra. He explains the prayer's two parts: the introductory praises (10 praises corresponding to creation's 10 utterances and the 10 Commandments) and the actual blessing. Drawing from the Rokach and other commentaries, the rabbi reveals profound secrets:Baruch She'amar V'haya Ha'olam — Hashem spoke the world into existence (yesh me'ayin); everything was created in one utterance, then revealed gradually over time.Baruch Hu — The world exists to glorify Hashem's Name.Baruch Oseh Bereishis — Hashem renews creation every single day (present tense verbs emphasize ongoing miracles).Baruch Omer V'oseh — What Hashem decrees immediately happens.Baruch Gozer Umekayem — Decrees (even difficult ones) are fulfilled, yet Hashem sustains us through them.Baruch Merachem Al Ha'aretz / Al Ha'briyot — Hashem shows compassion on the earth and every creature.Baruch Meshaleim Sochar Tov Li're'av — Hashem rewards the righteous eternally (in the World to Come), while the wicked get their reward in this world.Baruch Chai La'ad V'kayam Lanetzach — Hashem was, is, and will be forever (YKVK = past, present, future).Baruch Podeh U'matzil — Hashem redeems and rescues from every challenge.Baruch Shemo — Blessed is His Name, despite being hidden.The rabbi connects this to the parsha (Va'era), where Hashem reveals Himself as the Redeemer ("Ani Hashem") and performs miracles to prove His sovereignty. He stresses living with awe: see daily miracles (body, nature, modern survivals in Israel) as ongoing creation and love from Hashem—never let them become routine._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June GoldbergDownload the Prayer Podcast Worksheets:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharingThis episode (Ep. #45) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on January 27, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 28, 2026_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!_____________#Prayer, #Tefillah, #Siddur, #PesukaiDezimra, #PrayerPodcast, #BaruchSheamar, #VersesOfPraise, #13Attributes, #JewishPrayer ★ Support this podcast ★

Abraham just defeated four kings. He refused their wealth. He should feel victorious. Instead, he's terrified. G-d appears to him in a vision and says: "Fear not, Abraham. I am a shield for you. Your reward is very great." But Abraham isn't comforted. What good is any reward if he has no child to pass it to? Everything will go to Eliezer, his servant from Damascus.G-d takes him outside. "Look at the heavens and count the stars, if you can." The simple reading: Abraham looks up at the night sky. But the Hebrew reveals something else. The word used means looking down, not up. G-d takes Abraham above the stars and shows him from there. Because according to Abraham's astrological sign, he and Sarah will never have children. So G-d takes him outside his mazal, outside the natural order. Abram won't have a son, but Abraham will. The Jewish people exist outside the framework of the world, a thread that shouldn't be there but is.Abraham trusts. The Hebrew word is "והאמין," which doesn't mean belief the way we think. It means locked in, steadfast, unwavering. No matter what questions come, Abraham is locked into G-d. Then Abraham asks one question: "How will I know that I will inherit the land?" What have I done to deserve this? Or maybe: how do I make sure I don't mess it up? This episode explores what it means to be taken outside your limitations, and why trust is greater than belief.

The Exodus is finally here. After 210 years in Egypt - enslaved, tormented, and oppressed - the nation is leaving with great pomp and ceremony. There is an apparently curious factoid about the Exodus: in the third verse of our Parsha, the Torah tells us that Moshe secured the bones of Joseph, and transported them with the nation.  What is the significance of the bones of Joseph? Why was it so important to bring these bones of Joseph with the people? In this Parsha podcast we go deep and deeper on the fascinating subplot of the bones of Joseph.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 Jerusalem Temple lies in ruins, and a furious Christian writer is determined to answer one explosive question: Who are the true people of God? The anonymous author behind the Epistle of Barnabas doesn't pull punches; he declares that the covenant belongs to Christians, not Jews, and that Israel misunderstood their own Scriptures from the very beginning. His letter, once tucked into one of Christianity's oldest Bibles, reads circumcision as prophecy, interprets pigs into parables about hypocrisy, and reimagines the dietary laws as a secret moral code. But, beyond being an ancient polemic, it offers a glimpse into how the early Church wrestled with its identity in the shadow of Judaism. Tune in now to learn why this passionate, problematic letter captivated some and troubled others, and what it reveals about the messy process of defining Christian faith.Join the ConversationHead over to our ⁠private Facebook community⁠, where listeners discuss episodes, grapple with historical questions, and share insights on how these ancient stories shape our faith today. It's a place for genuine conversation with fellow church history enthusiasts, from seasoned scholars to curious newcomers.Get Episodes & More in Your InboxSubscribe to the free ⁠Substack ⁠and receive each podcast episode delivered directly to your email every week, complete with full transcripts. During off-weeks, you'll also receive a devotional blog post exploring spiritual themes connected to recent episodes—perfect for personal reflection or small group discussion.Unlock Premium ContentBecome a paid ⁠Substack⁠ subscriber to access devotional/historical study guides for each episode. Your subscription directly supports the creation of more episodes and helps keep church history accessible to everyone.Buy Me a CoffeeWant to support the podcast with a one-time gift or ongoing contribution? Head to ⁠Buy Me a Coffee⁠, where you can encourage this work in whatever way makes sense for you. Every contribution helps cover production costs and makes future episodes possible.For any other questions or comments, please don't hesitate to contact Jared at thechurchhistoryproject@gmail.com.

Rebecca had Judaism in her background, but was raised in a fundamentalist form of Pentecostalism that she rebelled against strongly, going deep into a world of regrettable life decisions. Through God's providence and some key relationships, she began to come back to faith, and was surprised to find, after her initial Christian conversion, that her true spiritual home was in the Catholic Church. She now works helping women in crisis pregnancies in Steubenville, OH.

My guest today is Rabbi David Wolpe. He's spent decades debating atheists, leading one of the country's largest synagogues, and thinking seriously about what holds a moral society together once traditional faith loosens its grip. Wolpe and I talk about belief after the New Atheists, why reason alone keeps overreaching, and how secular movements quietly take on the structure—and zeal—of religion. We get into Judaism as a form of peoplehood, the strange moral logic of modern campus activism, antisemitism as a conspiracy engine, and why slogans and ideology can harden into dogma. Wolpe also reflects on his time teaching at Harvard, the limits of academic tolerance, and what he learned about institutions under pressure.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Exodus was for keeps. Although Pharaoh regretted his decision to allow the Israelites to leave and chased them down, setting up a stand-off at the Sea of Reeds, once the sea split for the Israelites and crashed down upon the Egyptians, the Israelites were forever freed from the clutches of Egyptian bondage. Following that day, the Israelites will never see the Egyptians again. Our people are thrice warned to never return back to Egypt. There's nothing left for us there. The split was permanent. We're gone forever.But this wasn't always the plan. When Moshe initially pitched Pharaoh to release the Israelites, he sought a temporary reprieve. "Let us travel three days into the wilderness and have a festival of sacrifices for God. Moshe implied that the nation would return following the festival. This is repeated multiple times in the narrative, as the Plague escalated and Pharaoh was pliable to negotiate: First, he offered to host the festival in Egypt. That was untenable because the Israelites intended to sacrifice sheep, the deities of Egypt. Then, Pharaoh agreed to allow the adults to go, provided that the children of the animals stay behind as collateral. Finally, Pharaoh relented to allow the adults and the children to participate in this festival, if the nation agreed to leave the animals behind.When the nation left and three days elapsed and the nation failed to signal a return back to Egypt, Pharaoh pursued them. What is the nature of this counterfactual three-day festival? Was it a legitimate proposal or a deceptive ruse? In this very fascinating podcast, we share three different approaches. What you will learn can provide a very useful tactic in your path of ascent.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –NEW TORCH Mailing Address POBox:TORCHPO BOX 310246HOUSTON, TX 77231-0246– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

On Today's Show: Prager delves into the story of Cain and Abel, exploring the complexities of human nature and the nature of God. He examines the biblical account of Cain's punishment and the development of civilization, highlighting the importance of recognizing the value of every human being. Prager also discusses the concept of the "mark of Cain," which is often misunderstood as a negative mark, but is actually a sign of protection. He touches on the idea that we are all connected and that every human being is a whole world, and that this understanding is a key principle of Judaism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She grew up Catholic in Venezuela, never knowing Jews still existed, yet her family quietly lit candles, covered mirrors, and placed stones on graves. Centuries-old Jewish practices survived in her home without explanation, passed down in secret since the Spanish Inquisition.   In this episode, Reyna Simnegar shares her extraordinary journey from Venezuela to Judaism: uncovering crypto-Jewish roots dating back over 500 years, discovering her family's hidden mesorah, living through political collapse under Chávez, and ultimately converting Orthodox and building a Jewish life and family. From Schindler's List to UCLA, from Taco Bell to Jerusalem, this is a powerful story of identity, faith, exile, and return.   A rare, deeply personal conversation about Anusim, survival, and what it means to come home, even when it takes generations. This episode was made possible thanks to our sponsors: ► PZ Deals   Download the app and never pay full price again!   https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp _____________________   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App   The easiest way to give Tzedaka   https://pushkapp.cc/meaningful   _____________________   ► Move to San Antonio - The Other Texas   A growing Jewish community offering warmth, learning, affordability, and opportunity. Small-town feel, strong values, and a big future just outside Austin.   https://www.rodfeisholom.com/movetosa   _____________________   ► Givat Hashalva   Givat Hashalvah is a new, vibrant, Torah-centered community rising in Givat Ze'ev, only 20 minutes from the heart of Yerushalayim.   https://go.lyo.group/4rAkXCN   _____________________   ► Wruble & Co   Exceptional legal service starts with a genuine personal connection. We deliver clear, efficient, results-driven legal counsel in Israeli real estate, always guided by the client's individual needs. Through transparency, care, and clarity, we support confident decision-making at every step.   https://www.wrublelaw.co.il/   _____________________   ► Dream Raffle   Win a brand new and fully furnished $1,200,000 apartment in Yerushalayim!  Use Promo code MPP for $10 off and to receive double tickets!   https://thedreamraffle.com/    _____________________   ► Rothenberg Law Firm   Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out Today for Free Case Evaluation   https://shorturl.at/JFKHH   _____________________   ► Town Appliance    Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp   https://www.townappliance.com  https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp   

The Letter of Jude E3 — After the letter's opening appeal, Jude (or Judah) begins warning corrupt members of a Jewish messianic church community who cast off restraint and live openly immoral lives. He does so with an ancient rhetorical technique found in both the Hebrew Bible and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Jude shares three stories of rebellion in the Hebrew Bible: the spies fearful of the promised land in Numbers 13-14, the “sons of God” in Genesis 6, and the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19. Then he draws comparisons to the corrupt church members, promising they'll receive the same judgment. Why does Jude write this way about the moral crisis in a church? What is he trying to communicate? In this episode, Jon and Tim explore verses 5-8, unpacking the dense biblical references and what they would have meant to Jude and his audience.FULL SHOW NOTESFor chapter-by-chapter summaries, referenced Scriptures, and reflection questions, check out the full show notes for this episode.CHAPTERSA Jewish Rhetorical Technique (0:00-18:10)Rebellion of the Spies, Sons of God, and Sodom and Gomorrah (18:10-36:41)Concluding Thoughts on the First Triad (36:41-51:54)OFFICIAL EPISODE TRANSCRIPTView this episode's official transcript.BIBLEPROJECT JUDE TRANSLATIONView our full translation of the Letter of Jude.REFERENCED RESOURCESThe Dead Sea Scrolls (Pesharim)Check out Tim's extensive collection of recommended books.SHOW MUSIC“Fellowship” by Lofi Sunday, Cassidy Godwin“Peace With You ft. Oly.Lo” by Lofi SundayBibleProject theme song by TENTS SHOW CREDITSProduction of today's episode is by Lindsey Ponder, producer, and Cooper Peltz, managing producer. Tyler Bailey is our supervising engineer, who also edited today's episode and provided the sound design and mix. JB Witty writes the show notes. Our host and creative director is Jon Collins, and our lead scholar is Tim Mackie. Powered and distributed by Simplecast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.