Podcasts about matan torah

A couple once came to me for advice, explaining that they have several children who are older and still not married. "We're embarrassed to go anywhere," they said. "We know that everyone's looking at us, everyone's feeling sorry for us and talking about what's wrong with us and our children." My response to them was clear and simple. I said: "Get it out of your head. No one's looking at you or talking about you. You're making yourselves upset and anxious for no reason. Go out and enjoy. Stop worrying about what other people are thinking or saying. They have their own problems to worry about. They're not talking about you." I explained that any normal adult who's been through life knows that some folks have a harder time than others – in shidduchim and in everything else. Any normal believing Jew knows that Hashem decides who should get married when, and we do not know and are not supposed to know how He decides these things. So many of the things we worry about, that hold us back and that weigh us down, are simply nonsense. Ideas that our imagination came up with but have no basis in reality. Parashat Maseh begins by listing the 42 places where Beneh Yisrael encamped over the course of their journey from Egypt until their final encampment before crossing into the Land of Israel, a list compiled and recorded by Moshe Rabbenu himself. For the most part, these verses just tell us that Beneh Yisrael journeyed from location X and encamped in location Y. The Torah does not tell us the events they experienced at these locations – not Matan Torah , not the war with Amalek, not the spies. There are, however, a few very unusual exceptions. We are told that in a place called Elim, the people found wellsprings and palm trees. We are told that in Refidim, the people didn't have water. We are told that Aharon Ha'kohen died in Hor Ha'har, at which point the Canaanites were able to attack, because the protective "clouds of glory" which shielded them in Aharon's merit were lost. Why did Moshe choose to mention this small handful of events, while omitting the more major events, such as Matan Torah , the sin of the golden calf, and the sin of the spies? Moshe was showing the people that there were times throughout their travels when they were scared, when they felt vulnerable and insecure, but everything turned out ok. They went into a desert, wondering where they would find water and food – and then they saw that Hashem prepared for them springs and date trees. They later came to a place with no water -and Hashem showed Moshe a rock which he struck, and which then miraculously produced water for the next forty years. When they lost their protective clouds, the Canaanite army attacked, but Hashem helped them and they defeated their enemies. Indeed, Rashi cites the Midrash as comparing Moshe to a father whose son was very ill, and needed treatment far away. On their way back home, the father recalled what happened at every stop along the way – the place where the boy had a fever, where he suffered from extreme pain, and so on. Moshe was showing Beneh Yisrael – and us – that they faced many different challenges over the course of these forty years, but it turned out ok. The situation was not always pleasant, but it always worked out in the end. This is an exercise that we all could – and should – do from time to time: to think about the times when we were very scared, when we were very anxious, when we were very upset, when we were very down, when we were very dejected, and then realize how the situation was somehow resolved. Even if it wasn't resolved exactly the way we would have ideally wanted, we managed. We were ok. When we feel anxious, more often than not, it's because our head exaggerates, turning the problem into something far bigger than it really is, and it imagines things that don't exist. We need to remember that Hashem has always helped us in the past, and He will help us now with whatever it is we're struggling with. Even if things don't turn out the way we want them to, they will turn out ok – because Hashem is in charge.

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-28_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-28_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-28_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-28_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 2 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 2 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 2 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-21_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 2 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Rabbi Shulman raises Rabbi Tzadok's fundamental question: how can the Torah—*divrei emet*—record the falsehoods Korach spreads, especially when they fuel machloket rather than peace? He explains that Korach's claims are not “random lies” preserved as history; rather, they express a profound truth that applies in a different spiritual mode: moments of “circular” revelation (like Kriyat Yam Suf and Matan Torah) and the future world, where every Jew relates directly to Hashem without hierarchy. Korach's error was weaponizing that truth prematurely—using a real ideal of equality in a world that still operates by process, gradation, and necessary distinction. Outline: https://danielggordon.github.io/ateresami/korach-the-truth-of-equality-20260619-141019-outline-20260619-141057.pdf

The Rebbe addresses the occurrence of miracles beyond nature for individuals, especially in recent years, and emphasizes the importance of strengthening one's connection to G-d. He also discusses the hidden aspects of Torah revealed at Shavuos and the unique experience at Matan Torah. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/009/2140

In this in-depth (be'iyun) shiur, R' Rietti returns to Torah 4 in the first chelek of Likutey Moharan, learning how the opening pasuk of the Aseres Hadibros — Anochi Hashem Elokecha asher hotzeisicha me'eretz Mitzrayim — holds the entire structure of creation within it, from Bereishis all the way to Matan Torah and Klal Yisrael.At the heart of the lesson is one line of Rebbe Nachman: keshe'adam yodeia shekol me'ora'av hem letovaso — when a person truly knows that everything that happens to him comes from Hashem and is for his good. That da'as, Rebbe Nachman teaches, is a taste of Olam Haba and the way out of ye'ush. And its absence is the real root of suffering itself.In this shiur:Anochi Hashem as the axis of the whole Torah, and how Jewish identity becomes fixed at Har SinaiAsher / Ashrei — Hashem took us out of Mitzrayim with simcha, and the unity of rachamim (Havayah) and din (Elokim)Why da'as is the difference between feeling crushed by yisurim and living with clarityLashon Hakodesh, the oisiyos, and nitzotzos — how Hashem's word builds realityNear-death experiences as a partial glimpse of the world of truthNachum Ish Gamzu and gam zu letovah — and the even higher level that needs no visible resolutionIyov's Hashem nasan, Hashem lakach, yehi shem Hashem mevorachTraining the mind toward kol d'avid Rachmana letav avid#LikuteyMoharan #RebbeNachman #Breslov #Torah4 #Emunah #Daas #GamZuLetovah #OlamHaba #JewishWisdom #Chassidus #Hisbodedus #RabbiRietti

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-14_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

After we recite in the morning the section of the Ketoret and the passage of "Abayeh Hava Mesader," we recite a very special prayer – Ana Be'cho'ah. This prayer was composed by one of the great Tanna'im – Rabbi Nehunya Ben Ha'kaneh, whom the Hida (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) describes as one of the earliest Kabbalists, preceding even Rabbi Shimon Bar Yohai. The Ana Be'cho'ah prayer is so significant that the Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) and many others write that if a person arrives late to Shaharit, and needs to skip the introductory portions of the prayer service, he should not skip Ana Be'cho'ah. This prayer consists of seven lines, each of which with six letters, for a total of 42 letters, and these 42 letters spell the special 42-letter Name of Hashem. This Name is the "elevator," the Name associated with rising to the upper worlds. It is critically important to recite Ana Be'cho'ah as part of our introduction to Shaharit because it elevates us to the heavens so we can present our Tefilot to G-d. By the time we recite the Amida, we want to be standing before the Heavenly Throne, so we can speak directly to the Almighty. The recitation of Ana Be'cho'ah elevates us to the higher spheres so we can speak to Hashem while standing in front of His Throne. It is proper to recite this Tefila slowly and to take note of the first letters of the words. This Name is alluded to also in the first paragraph of Shema, which consists of 42 words (from "Ve'ahabta" through "U'bi'sh'arecha"), corresponding to the 42 letters of this Name. For this reason, some Siddurim feature the letters of this divine Name alongside the words of this paragraph of Shema. Another allusion to this Name is found in Kaddish – specifically, in the phrase "Ve'yishtabah Ve'yitpa'ar Ve'yitromam Ve'yitnaseh Ve'yit'hadar Ve'yit'aleh Ve'yit'halal," which consists of seven words that each contains six letters, for a total of 42. Some have the custom to recite Ana Be'cho'ah each night before going to sleep. The soul departs and rises to the heavens when one sleeps, and so it is appropriate to recite this prayer which, as mentioned, is associated with elevation and ascent. Likewise, it is customary to recite Ana Be'cho'ah at funerals, Heaven forbid, as the coffin is being taken for burial, and the soul is ready to rise to the heavens. In some communities, Ana Be'cho'ah is recited before Lecha Dodi on Friday night, as we elevate ourselves to the higher plane of Shabbat. Likewise, many recite this prayer after counting the Omer, as the Omer counting is intended to elevate us in preparation for Matan Torah on Shabuot. The custom to read Ana Be'cho'ah following the recitation of "Abayeh Hava Mesader" was taught by the Arizal, as brought in Sha'ar Ha'kavanot. This is cited by the Kaf Ha'haim (Rav Yaakob Haim Sofer, Baghdad-Jerusalem, 1870-1939). The Seder Ha'yom (Rav Moshe Ben Machir, Safed, 16 th century), by contrast, writes that it is better to recite Ana Be'cho'ah later, just before Baruch She'amar. He explains that the world was created with the power of this 42-letter Name, and so it is appropriate to allude to this Name just before reciting "Baruch She'amar Ve'haya Ha'olam," when we give praise to Hashem who created the world. However, we follow the Arizal's teaching, that Ana Be'cho'ah should be recited after the section of "Abayeh Hava Mesader." One possible explanation for the Arizal's custom is that the section of "Abayeh Hava Mesader," which lists the various Abodot (services) performed daily in the Bet Ha'mikdash, omits Birkat Kohaim (the priestly blessing), which was recited each day in the Bet Ha'mikdash. In the Bet Ha'mikdash, the Kohanim reciting Birkat Kohanim would use the Shem Ha'meforash – the divine Name that is normally forbidden to utter, and according to some, this was the 42-letter Name. Perhaps, then, we add Ana Be'cho'ah – which is associated with this Name – after the section of "Abayeh Hava Mesader" to allude to the daily recitation of Birkat Kohanim in the Bet Ha'mikdash. The Ana Be'cho'ah prayer concludes with the pronouncement of "Baruch Shem Kebod Malchuto Le'olam Va'ed," giving praise to the exalted Name of G-d, which this prayer expresses.

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n2_p1. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 2

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-06-07_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p2. Lesson_part :: Daily_lesson 1 :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah]

Naso | Shimson the Nazirite... Indeed? by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom The annunciation of Shimshon's birth (Shoftim 13) carries several anomalies; indeed, his own life reflects an unusual form of Nezirut, one which is not bound by the most severe violation of Nezirut (contact with the dead) - while his parents are the ones bound to avoid drinking wine. An investigation into the various types of נזירים in Tanakh - both before and after Matan Torah - opens up an intriguing possibility which allows us to decipher this last of the Shoftim and his unusual religious strictures. Source sheet >>

In this episode I explore a deeply transformative idea from the writings of the Baal HaSulam regarding the true purpose of Torah and Matan Torah. We often measure spiritual success through knowledge, observance, or identity, but what if Torah was given to accomplish something far deeper within the human being itself? Together we examine the illusion of separateness, the connection between self-love and fragmentation, why Sinai did not permanently transform humanity, and how Torah and mitzvos function as a gradual process of reshaping consciousness from isolation toward connectedness, responsibility, and alignment with Hashem. 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.

Audio, eng_t_norav_2026-05-24_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p3. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

Video, eng_t_norav_2026-05-24_lesson_bs-matan-tora_n1_p3. Lesson_part :: Lessons_series. Baal HaSulam. Matan Torah [The Giving of the Torah] :: Daily_lesson 1

There is a time-honored tradition to remain awake throughout the night of Shabuot and read the special "Tikkun Lel Shabuot" text that is printed in the Mahzorim. Hacham Ben Sion Abba Shaul (Israel, 1924-1998), in his work Or Le'siyon (vol. 3, 18:11), discusses the importance of this custom and presents numerous laws and guidelines relevant to the proper observance of this special occasion (listen to audio clip for precise citation). First, he mentions that even learned men who prefer studying Gemara must set aside their Talmudic studies in order to read the text of the Tikkun Lel Shabuot. If time remains after they complete the Tikkun, they may then study other material that they find more enjoyable. In Yeshivot, Hacham Ben Sion writes, students should follow the instructions of their Rosh Yeshiva in this regard. He also emphasizes that one should read the Tikkun even if he does not understand some sections of the service. Even if one plans to remain awake throughout the night, he should nevertheless recite the Keri'at Shema Al Ha'mita before Hassot (midnight as defined by Halacha). Already after Hassot, one may recite all the morning Berachot, with the exception of "Al Netilat Yadayim" and Birkot Ha'Torah. One should make a point to use the bathroom at some point before morning in order to be able to recite "Asher Yasar." At the point in the pre-dawn hours when it is uncertain whether Alot Ha'shahar (daybreak, the first appearance of light in the eastern sky) has occurred, one should discontinue his Torah learning. He should instead either immerse in a Mikveh or sing songs of praise until Alot Ha'shahar. After Alot Ha'shahar, one should wash his hands in preparation for prayer, but without reciting a Beracha. He then must recite Birkat HaTorah. Hacham Ben Sion cites in this context a passage in the work Sha'ar Ha'kavanot, which comments that whoever remains awake and diligently involves himself in Torah study throughout this night is guaranteed to survive the entire next year and to avoid all harm. Nevertheless, one should make a point of studying "Li'shmah" – with the proper motivation, out of sincere love for and commitment to Torah learning, and not to receive reward. Hacham Ben Sion also warns that sitting idly or engaging in meaningless chatter is no better than sleeping. It is therefore imperative to ensure to spend the entire night engrossed in Torah learning, and not in any other activities. In particular, one must avoid idle conversation inside the synagogue. Hacham Ben Sion also cites a comment from the Zohar that emphasizes the importance of studying with joy and fervor, in reward for which one is blessed with seventy blessings. The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) similarly stressed the importance of studying on this night with great enthusiasm and what he termed "purity of heart." Furthermore, on the festival of Shabuot God decrees how many "Hiddushim" (new insights) each individual will be privileged to develop during the coming year, which is determined based on the level of one's intensive study on Shabuot. Hacham Ben Sion writes that when we speak of Shabuot as "the day of the giving of the Torah," we refer not merely to the historical event of Matan Torah, but rather of the process that is renewed each year on this day. God grants a person on Shabuot the ability to think of new Torah insights, and one must therefore pray on Shabuot for Torah knowledge and the wisdom to understand to the best of his soul's capability, and also try to think of "Hiddushim" during his study on Shabuot. During the day of Shabuot, too, one should try to minimize his sleeping in order to spend as much time as possible involved in Torah learning. Every moment spent learning on Shabuot earns a person reward, and one must not squander this opportunity. In fact, there were great Rabbis who would not sleep at all on Shabuot; after remaining awake throughout the night, they would simply continue learning through the day of Shabuot. The Hid"a (Rav Haim Yosef David Azulai, 1724-1806) likewise advises against indulging in sleep on the day of Shabuot. He also emphasizes that one must ensure not to fall asleep during the prayer service. Finally, one should also devote himself to Torah study with extra vigor and diligence during the "Sheloshet Yemeh Hagbala" – the three days of preparation prior to Shabuot. Just as in the wilderness Beneh Yisrael were instructed to abstain from relations and prepare themselves for three days prior to Matan Torah, so must we increase our efforts to learn Torah and minimize our physical indulgence during these three days. Hacham Ben Sion writes that the level of inspiration one receives from the experience of Shabuot depends on the amount of effort he exerted during the three previous days to prepare for this great experience.

Ikar ha-da'as hu achdus shel chasadim u'gvuros — true knowledge is the unity of kindness and restraint. Likutey Moharan, Torah Daled (Torah 4) — Shiur 2, with Rabbi Rietti. We finish the recap of paragraphs alef–gimel and walk paragraph daled be'kius, on the way toward zayin. Recorded the week of Matan Torah — the ultimate achdus. What we cover: Recap — the glimpse of Olam Haba — me'ein Olam Haba is from ayin, an eye: not a taste but a glimpse. The complete da'as that everything — the good and the "bad" — flows from one source, Hashem, who is only good, rooted in ahavah, chesed, and achdus. Vidui devarim before a talmid chacham — why this is not a Breslever chiddush: sources in Shas, Nach, and the Rambam (Hilchos Teshuvah, perek alef). And why vidui (from hoda'ah — to admit / to thank) is not the Catholic "confession." Seif daled — "u'kshe'yeida kol zos" — when a person knows all this, it is called yediya shleima. And ikar ha-da'as is the perfect unity of chasadim u'gvuros — chesed and gevura combined. (Why da'as is the joining of the two, not a sefira of its own.) What gevura actually means — not "power" but restraint. Mai gevuraso shel HaKadosh Baruch Hu? — Eizehu gibor? Ha'kovesh es yitzro. Hashem's gevura is erech apayim — His patience, holding back even with the reshaim. The highest demonstration of His gevura is that He withholds full puranus. Puranus and onesh — re-translated — puranus means payment, not "punishment" (Loshon Hakodesh has no word for punishment). Onesh = ayin (an eye that sees) + nash (to fall) — being shown how I have fallen. Mida k'neged mida is built to let a person see his own mistake. Examples in halacha — the eved ivri who stole and is treated with such chesed that he learns to care; the arei miklat (48 cities of the Levi'im); and the mitzvah of road signs at every junction in Eretz Yisroel. How Rebbe Nachman learns a pasuk — quoting pesukim and Gemaros "out of order" as drush; bittulah shel Torah zu hi kiyuma vs. yesoda — and why the kiyum (a building standing) depends entirely on the yesod (the foundation), per the Maharal.

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Rosh Chodesh Sivan What is the unique power of this day? What does “like one person, with one heart” mean? What's the most important way to prepare for Matan Torah? It's gratifying to see that Rabbis in Jerusalem reacted to your program last week, warning against harassment. What are we celebrating on Shavuos? What is the historic and cosmic significance of the Giving of the Torah? What exactly is Torah? Since Torah is the purpose of creation, why was it not given to Adam in the beginning of creation? What was the purpose of the patriarchs keeping the Torah before it was given?  Why is the holiday called Shavuos? What is its connection to oaths? Is Shavuos the anniversary of our nation's birth? Why is the 50th day not counted? Why don't we begin the new cycle of reading the Torah after Shavuos, when we received the Torah? Why don't we dance with the Torah on Shavuos like we do on Simchas Torah? Why were there thunder and lightning when the Torah was given? What did we receive at Sinai – the entire Torah, or just the Ten Commandments? Why do the Ten Commandments begin with an Egyptian word – Anochi? Is there any connection with Adam using that word when he hid from G-d after eating from the Tree of Knowledge? Why are there differences between the two texts of the Ten Commandments documented in the Torah? Why is naaseh v'nishma considered a great act? What is the virtue of committing and acting before listening and understanding? If action is primary, why the need to understand? What is the meaning of the two crowns given to us at Matan Torah? What does the Rebbe Rashab say about this in his magnum opus Hemshech B'Shaah She'hikdimu Ayin Beis? Shavuos – Matan Torah The Ten Commandments Naaseh V'Nishma and the Crowns Why don't we recite the chapter about Manna in our daily prayers? Follow-up

Rabbi Chaim Singer-Frankes' Shabbat Teaching at Temple Beth Am, Los Angeles, May 16, 2026. (Youtube)Special Guest: Rabbi Chaim Singer-Frankes.

The poetry of Vezot Habracha is tough.Today we discuss the prologue and the epilogue to Moses' blessings to the tribes. The first depicts Matan Torah, the second depicts God defeating Israel's foes and settling them safely in their land. -----------To support the podcast, please donate at:⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/alexisrael⁠⁠https://patreon.com/u51407457

In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on Parshas Bamidbar (always read right before Shavuot), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains why this portion sets the perfect stage for receiving the Torah. The Jewish people are counted because they are precious to Hashem — like a person constantly checking valuable possessions. Bamidbar (“in the desert”) teaches that to receive the Torah we must be like the desert: thirsty for knowledge and humble, just as Mount Sinai was the lowliest mountain.The episode highlights the tribal flags and precise positioning around the Mishkan, pre-arranged by Yaakov Avinu, and vividly retells the awe-inspiring revelation at Sinai — thunder, lightning, the intensifying shofar, and the mountain smoking like a furnace. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes the romantic metaphor: Hashem approached the Jewish people like a groom to his bride. He offered the Torah to all 70 nations first; they asked “What's in it?” and refused once they heard the details. The Jews accepted immediately with “Na'aseh v'nishma” — no questions, full commitment.The sleeping episode before Matan Torah is explained as the people expecting a long process with the nations, and Rabbi Wolbe connects this to our own daily choice to say “yes” to the Torah anew. He stresses removing “exit signs” from our commitment, the origin of antisemitism at Sinai, and practical inspiration for deeper Shabbos observance and personal growth._____________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 May 12, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 13, 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, #Numbers, #Bamidbar, #Shavuot, #MatanTorah, #Desert, #Humility, #SayYes, #JewishPride, #RenewYourYes ★ Support this podcast ★

Rabbi Jacobson will discuss the following topics: Bamidbar What lessons do we learn from living with the times, with this week's Torah parsha? What is the connection between Bamidbar and Matan Torah on Shavuos? If the Torah was given in the desert to show that nobody can claim ownership of it, how can the Jewish nation claim exclusive ownership of the Torah? Is the Torah only for Jews? What is the purpose of counting the Jewish people? Why did the Rebbe gaze at each person passing by to recite the blessing over the Lulav on Sukkos 5752?What does all this teach us today? How are the curses in Torah really hidden blessings and why do they have to be disguised as the opposite? What is an example of a great blessing hidden within an apparent curse?  If they are really hidden blessings, how do they serve as a deterrent? Should we see negative life experiences as hidden blessings? How do we reconcile counting the Omer with the care taken not to count people? Behar-Bechukosei In our times, are we all obligated to learn the Inner Torah?  How do we explain the idea that a soul is a “piece” of G-d?  How can we understand and relate to G-d?   Is counting a positive thing? How can a blemished person pray?  How should we react to “observant” Jews harassing Arabs?  How should I deal with religious incompatibility in my marriage?  Why don't we recite the chapter about Manna in our daily prayers? Follow-up 

Send us Fan MailLink for Miami Live Podcast Event:https://www.theshul.org/form/WCshavuos5786Sefirar HaOmer as a Path of Alignment, Growth, and RelationshipIn this episode of From The Inside Out Podcast with Rivkah and Eda, we interview  Rivkah Mazal Tauber, recommended by Rivky Kaplan, who co-created a Sefira journal. Rivka, who describes starting an Omer WhatsApp group that transformed her and explains Sefirat HaOmer as a step-by-step journey from Egypt to Matan Torah. She unpacks “Omer” (manna measure, barley offering, forgotten sheaf for the needy) as receiving from God, returning to God, and giving to others, and defines “Sefirah” as counting, story, and shining, framing the Sefirot as divine vessels and soul powers. Using building a business, she maps Keter through Malchut and applies the framework to relationships, procrastination, balancing effort with surrender, and the 49-day count leading to an uncountable 50th, emphasizing that simply counting fulfills the mitzvah and that God meets us in our humanity.Join us for a beautiful Pre-Shavuos evening on Wednesday, May 13 at the Shul Bal Harbor. Don't miss this meaningful conversation and a delicious cheesecake bar!Plus, enter a raffle for a chance to win a color analysis session.RSVP and find more details here: https://www.theshul.org/form/WCshavuos5786EPISODE SPONSORSColel Chabad Colel Chabad is one of Israel's oldest continuously operating charities, supporting families with food security, widows & orphans, and emergency relief.  Their Pushka (Charity Box) App makes it easy to turn inspiration into action with simple daily giving—small “micro-donations” that add up to real impact over time. To join thousands of daily givers, download the Pushka App on iOS or Android and start giving today: https://pushkapp.cc/Inside Discover and donate to Colel Chabad here: https://colelchabad.org/ Yakira Bella Yakira Bella is the go-to for trendy, modest women's fashion that still feels current—think playful-but-polished pieces, elevated basics, and outfits that actually work for real life (day-to-day, Shabbos, events, everything in between). Their collections balance tasteful + bold, with a steady stream of new arrivals and best sellers so you can refresh your wardrobe without overthinking it. If you're looking for modestwear that's stylish, wearable, and affordable, Yakira Bella is absolutely worth checking out.  Visit https://yakirabella.com/ and follow along at https://www.instagram.com/yakirabellaofficial/GUEST BIORivka Mazal TauberRivka Mazal Tauber is an experienced educator, skilled writer, and team leader based in Yerushalayim, with a passion for connecting people to ideas and experiences that awaken the soul. She teaches at Mayanot and has a particular gift for making the mystical tangible — most recently through her Sefirat HaOmer journey, which began as a COMMUNITYJoin the Community! Connect with us on socials to discuss Episode 101, share insights, and continue the conversations you want to have:

We cannot begin to imagine how great and powerful our tefillot are. It says in the Tanna D'Bei Eliyahu Zutah, Perek Vav, that Hashem told Moshe, "You will not be able to understand My ways, but I will tell you something about Me." When I see a person stand up to pray before Me, say words of praise, and then beg for help—even if that person does not have good deeds, and his parents do not have good deeds, and even his grandparents do not have good deeds—just because he asked Me properly, I will help him. And if a person prays with true kavanah, the tefillah becomes infinitely greater. The Ya'avetz writes that a person must know how his tefillah can find favor in Hashem's eyes. The main focus should be on the Amidah. If a person says it with the simple meaning of the words in mind, it is more pleasing to Hashem than any type of korban. And the more a person's heart is in it, the more powerful the tefillah becomes. He writes further that tefillah with kavanah has the power to silence all of the prosecuting angels. The Shelah HaKadosh explains that having kavanah means not thinking about anything else while we are praying, and to feel happiness that we are connecting to Hashem as we speak to Him. When a person reaches that level, it is considered such a great avodah that it is beyond what we can even describe. And all of this is speaking about tefillah during regular times. A tefillah made during an et ratzon—a special time of favor—is even more powerful. A certain man once came to the holy Rabbi Moshe of Rozvodov, asking for a yeshuah for something he needed very badly. The Rabbi told him to come back on Lag B'omer, because then it would be an et ratzon—a time of great favor before Hashem—and it would be more fitting to receive salvation in the merit of the Tanna Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. He brought a hint from a pasuk: " לבי ובשרי ירננו אל א-ל חי ." לבי —after thirty-two days, which brings us to the thirty-third day. ובשרי —stands for Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. ירננו —referring to tefillah. אל א-ל חי —to the living Hashem. On this day, the Zohar writes, the heavenly gates are wide open. The Arizal teaches that on this day, judgments are sweetened—din turns into rachamim. It is a day of great divine favor. On this day, the lights in Shamayim begin to shine in preparation for the awesome day of Matan Torah. The Chatam Sofer says that on this day, the Jewish people began eating the mann, the heavenly food that elevated them and prepared them to receive the Torah. One of the reasons we light fires on this day is to show that the lights in Shamayim are beginning to shine—seventeen days( טוב ) before Matan Torah. In the Sefirot, Lag BaOmer is Hod she'b'Hod, which has a connection to the holiness of Yom Kippur. Throughout the generations, people have received great salvations on this day. Tefillah is always powerful, but on days of et ratzon, it is even more powerful. Let us take advantage of this special time and pray with more kavanah, understanding that Hashem is right in front of us, listening to every word. He can help us with any need that we have, and we do not need anyone but Him. Let us feel calm, knowing we are standing before the only One who can help us, and He is giving us His full attention, waiting for us to ask Him for all of our needs.