Podcasts about mishkan

What does it mean to feel at home when you're far from home? Rabbi Josh Feigelson reflects on his childhood motorhome and the idea of a portable home. Drawing on Jewish teachings about the Mishkan and Divine Presence, he explores how we can carry a sense of home with us wherever we go, followed by a mindfulness practice for finding at-homeness in the present moment. Be in touch at josh@unpacked.media. This episode is sponsored by Jonathan and Kori Kalafer and the Somerset Patriots: The Bridgewater, NJ-based AA Affiliate of the New York Yankees. --------------- This podcast is brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media Brand.For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠Borderlines with That Semite⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews⁠⁠

This class explores the structure and spiritual ascent of the Beit HaMikdash, contrasting it with the Mishkan, and delves into the unique sanctity of the Kodesh HaKadoshim. The Rebbe teaches about the indestructible Jewish spark and the importance of moral sensitivity beyond halacha. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/024

This class explores the structure and spiritual ascent of the Beit HaMikdash, contrasting it with the Mishkan, and delves into the unique sanctity of the Kodesh HaKadoshim. The Rebbe teaches about the indestructible Jewish spark and the importance of moral sensitivity beyond halacha. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/005_devarim/004_reay/024

This class explores the customs and deeper significance of the Nine Days, tracing the history from the Mishkan to the Beis Hamikdash. It discusses why a physical sanctuary is essential, how exile shapes our mindset, and what redemption will mean for manifesting G-d's presence. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_month/011_tamuz/017-009_av_2

The letter highlights the essential role of Jewish women and girls in all aspects of Jewish life, drawing a parallel between their involvement in building the Mishkan and their importance in education. The Rebbe urges support for girls' Torah education, especially through Beis Sarah schools. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/012/005/4131

The Rebbe highlights the special role of Jewish women and daughters in building the Mishkan, emphasizing their spiritual intuition and responsibility. He encourages Nshei U'Bnos Chabad to express this inner awareness in daily life, shaping the future of the Jewish home. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/012/006/4148

The Rebbe addresses Rabbi Rubin-Halbershtam's questions about using metal thread and safety pins on Shabbat, clarifying distinctions between sewing in the Mishkan and modern practices. He explains why material and method matter for Shabbat laws, referencing classic sources. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/012/007/4220

Everyone remembers the staff that blossomed. After Korach's rebellion, God instructs Moshe to take twelve staffs - one from each tribal leader - and place them in the Mishkan. By morning, only Aharon's staff has blossomed, confirming that the tribe of Levi has been chosen for spiritual leadership. But what happened to the other eleven staffs? Their owners took them home. Those staffs bore the names of leaders who desired holiness, sought closeness to God, and were willing to stand before Him and be measured. They did not receive the role they hoped for. Their staffs did not blossom. Yet those staffs were not discarded. They were taken home and cherished because they testified to something real and important: the aspiration itself. We often evaluate ourselves only by what we achieve. The Torah suggests a deeper measure. We are shaped not only by what we become, but also by what we genuinely strive to become. Most dreams do not blossom exactly as we hope. Most goals are not fully attained. But the effort, the longing, and the willingness to reach for something holy are themselves part of who we are. The staffs that didn't blossom still mattered. So do the aspirations that shape our lives. Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship. Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/ Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO Please contact Rabbi Whitman (michael@adath.ca) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.

Welcome to the first episode of a chapter-by-chapter journey through the Books of Shmuel. We begin our deep dive with a look past the simple translations to find a primordial soup of character traits, divine politics, and raw human emotion. Chapter 1 introduces Elkanah, a master marketer single-handedly trying to put God's Mishkan back on the map against a backdrop of institutional corruption. But the true engine of this opening act is Chana. Driven by the systematic provocations of her sister-wife Penina, Chana refuses to accept her default reality. She takes her bitterness directly to God, invents a new name for the Almighty, and thunders for a son.In this class, we break down:* The Irony of Lineage: How the descendant of the Torah's ultimate rebel, Korach, becomes the architect of Shiloh's restoration.* The Shiloh Ghost Town: Why the public abandoned the Mishkan, and the loud, circuitous promotional strategy Elkanah used to bring the crowds back.* The Anatomy of Prayer: Why a silent, moving mouth looked like public drunkenness to the High Priest Eli, and how their confrontation birthed the fundamental laws of Jewish prayer.* The Cost of Great Prayer: Why Shmuel's life was cut to 52 years based on the exact, literal phrasing of Chana's oath.*The Unspoken Text: Weaving through the cultural backdrops, linguistic subversions, and localized politics that the simple translations leave behind.Follow along as we unpack Tanakh, character psychology, and the hidden mechanics of history, one chapter at a time.

Two of the important figures in Korah's brazen uprising against Moshe were two brothers named Datan and Abiram. Interestingly, we are not told what it is that they were fighting for. Korah himself, as Rashi brings, resented the fact that his cousin was chosen over him for a prestigious leadership role (head of one of the three families of Leviyim). The 250 men who joined Korah vied for the privilege of serving as Kohanim in the Mishkan. Datan and Abiram, however, simply ridiculed Moshe. In the message they delivered to him, they accused Moshe of taking them out of Egypt – which they described as "a long flowing with milk and honey" – to die in the wilderness. But they did not say what it is that they want from him. These men had a long history with Moshe. The Sages teach us that they were the men who disobeyed Moshe's instructions regarding the manna – leaving manna over to the next morning, and going out to collect on Shabbat – and they were the ones who advocated for returning to Egypt after hearing the spies' frightening report about the nations in Eretz Yisrael. In truth, their history with Moshe goes back even earlier – to the period of bondage in Egypt. The Midrash teaches that when Moshe saw an Egyptian taskmaster beating a member of Beneh Yisrael – that was Datan. And the next day, when Moshe saw two members of Beneh Yisrael fighting – those were Datan and Abiram. Moshe saved Datan's life when he was being beaten by the Egyptian, and he then saved Abiram when he was being beaten by Datan. Yet, instead of expressing gratitude to Moshe, they betrayed him, reporting him to Pharaoh. One of the commentaries explains why they harbored such ill-will toward Moshe. The Midrash relates that the Egyptian who was beating Datan had a relationship with Datan's wife. Moshe knew of this through Ru'ah Ha'kodesh (prophetic insight). Datan and Abiram did not want this information spread, and so they first tried having Moshe killed, by reporting him to Pharaoh. When Moshe returned to Egypt many years later as the nation's leader, Datan and Abiram repeatedly disobeyed Moshe and rejected his authority, so that if he ever mentioned anything about their secret, it would not be taken seriously. This is why they seized every opportunity to oppose and ridicule Moshe – and this is why they joined Korah's uprising. Remarkably, however, even after Datan and Abiram joined Korah in his uprising against Moshe's authority, Moshe still did not give up. The Torah tells (16:12) that Moshe sent them a message, inviting them for a meeting. According to some commentators, Moshe delivered this message because he still believed that they could repent. Even after all Datan and Abiram had done wrong, despite their pattern of defiance and contempt for him – Moshe still held out hope, he still believed in their capacity for goodness. The reason, as some have explained, is that Moshe never forgot the good that Datan and Abiram once did. Back in Egypt, Datan and Abiram served as Shoterim – foremen appointed by the Egyptian taskmasters to oversee the work done by the Israelite slaves. If the slaves did not complete their quota of work, then the Shoterim would be beaten. Datan and Abiram, as sinful as they were, took the beatings rather than deal harshly with their fellow Jews. They allowed themselves to suffer the consequences of the slaves' failure to complete their quota of work. Moshe did not allow Datan and Abiram's repeated misdeeds and even personal attacks to overshadow the good that they did. He recognized their capacity for goodness – even after they challenged and defied him several times. It was only here in Parashat Korah, when they rejected his "olive branch," when they refused to even speak with him, that he despaired. This is a crucial message for parents and educators. Too often, parents and teachers see the child's misbehavior and failures, but not the child's achievements and successes. This is a mistake. While certainly standards must be enforced, it is imperative that children know that all the good they do is recognized, appreciated and respected. In today's day and age, especially, children face unprecedented spiritual challenges. The lures and distractions of today's world make it so difficult for youngsters to do the right thing, to remain religiously committed, and to succeed academically. Every success, every mitzvah , everything that youngsters do right must be enthusiastically celebrated. Whatever mistakes children make do not erase the good that they do. The more encouragement they receive, the more motivated they will be to continue working and struggling to achieve despite the challenges that they face.

Avraham rushes to host three strangers and personally oversees every detail. Everything, that is, except the water. For that, he sends a messenger.Rabbi Bentzi Epstein and Tom unpack a chain of cause and effect that stretches from Avraham's tent to the rock that Moshe struck, and from there to a question: when you delegate a mitzvah, does something get lost?There is also a tree. One planted by Avraham for the shade of passing strangers. The same wood, centuries later, would be used to build the Mishkan, the portable Tabernacle where the Divine presence rested in the desert. What you do with your hands in this world, it turns out, leaves a longer trail than you think.

Rabbi Pink connects the New York Knicks' success to a lesson in this week's Torah portion about the menorah that stood in the Mishkan. Whether building a team, a menorah, or a Jewish community, every single piece matters.

Rabbi Shulman focuses on the Torah's instruction that all seven lamps of the menorah must shine “אל מול פני המנורה,” and he raises two questions: how this applies to the middle lamp, and why this detail appears here rather than earlier in the construction of the Mishkan's vessels. Drawing on Rav Tzadok, Rabbi Shulman explains that “מול” hints to the north side of the Mishkan—the spiritually vulnerable “opening” associated with the hidden yetzer hara (“הצפוני”). The menorah's light (Torah) must therefore shine “into the north,” elevating the שולחן (physical eating and enjoyment) into holiness and providing the only real antidote to modern excess and indulgence.

The Rebbe explains that just as the Mishkan was built and carried through the desert, every Jew must create a dwelling place for Hashem even in a spiritual wilderness. The sicha highlights the special role of Jewish women in building this “Mishkan” through educating children and strengthening Yiddishkeit. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/002/001_002

In this Parsha Review of Parshas Beha'aloscha, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the profound lessons hidden within the mitzvah of lighting the Menorah. The episode begins with Aaron HaKohen's disappointment at being excluded from the tribal inauguration offerings of the Mishkan. While the leaders of the twelve tribes participated in the dedication ceremony, Aaron and the tribe of Levi did not. Aaron feared this exclusion reflected lingering Divine displeasure from the episode of the Golden Calf. Hashem reassured him, however, that his role would be even greater: he would be entrusted with the eternal mitzvah of the Menorah, a privilege uniquely reserved for him and his descendants. Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Menorah symbolizes the Jewish people themselves. All branches stand at the same height, teaching that no Jew stands above another, while the central branch points toward our shared connection with Hashem. The purpose of the Menorah was never merely illumination; rather, it was elevation. The Torah uses the word Beha'aloscha ("when you elevate") instead of simply "when you light" because the true objective is spiritual growth, dedication, and drawing closer to God. The discussion then turns to education, parenting, leadership, and personal influence. Just as the flame was held near the wick until it ignited on its own, parents and teachers must inspire rather than force growth. Rabbi Wolbe highlights Aaron's unique gift as a pursuer of peace who brought harmony to families, friendships, and communities. The Menorah's message is timeless: every person possesses a unique light, talent, and purpose. Our responsibility is not merely to grow ourselves, but to elevate others and illuminate the world with the gifts Hashem has entrusted to us._____________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 June 2, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 3, 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, #Behaaloscha, #Menorah, #ShineYourLight, #AaronHaKohen, #Leadership, #Parenting, #Chinuch,#JewishEducation, #BringPeace, #GrowthMindset, #ElevateOthers, #ShareYourLight ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Parsha Review of Parshas Beha'aloscha, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the profound lessons hidden within the mitzvah of lighting the Menorah. The episode begins with Aaron HaKohen's disappointment at being excluded from the tribal inauguration offerings of the Mishkan. While the leaders of the twelve tribes participated in the dedication ceremony, Aaron and the tribe of Levi did not. Aaron feared this exclusion reflected lingering Divine displeasure from the episode of the Golden Calf. Hashem reassured him, however, that his role would be even greater: he would be entrusted with the eternal mitzvah of the Menorah, a privilege uniquely reserved for him and his descendants. Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Menorah symbolizes the Jewish people themselves. All branches stand at the same height, teaching that no Jew stands above another, while the central branch points toward our shared connection with Hashem. The purpose of the Menorah was never merely illumination; rather, it was elevation. The Torah uses the word Beha'aloscha ("when you elevate") instead of simply "when you light" because the true objective is spiritual growth, dedication, and drawing closer to God. The discussion then turns to education, parenting, leadership, and personal influence. Just as the flame was held near the wick until it ignited on its own, parents and teachers must inspire rather than force growth. Rabbi Wolbe highlights Aaron's unique gift as a pursuer of peace who brought harmony to families, friendships, and communities. The Menorah's message is timeless: every person possesses a unique light, talent, and purpose. Our responsibility is not merely to grow ourselves, but to elevate others and illuminate the world with the gifts Hashem has entrusted to us._____________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 June 2, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 3, 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, #Behaaloscha, #Menorah, #ShineYourLight, #AaronHaKohen, #Leadership, #Parenting, #Chinuch, #JewishEducation, #BringPeace, #GrowthMindset, #ElevateOthers, #ShareYourLight ★ Support this podcast ★

June 2 second from 2:36 There are many people – including yeshiva students and Talmideh Hachamim – who skip the section of Korbanot, which discusses the sacrifices offered in the Bet Ha'mikdash, and begin with Pesukeh De'zimra, from Hodu or from Baruch She'amar. The Hikreh Leb ( Rav Raphael Yosef Hazan, 1741–1820) considered the possibility that those who devote their days to Torah study are perhaps justified in omitting the Korbanot section. Since they spend their time immersed in Torah learning, they might be excused for saving time by skipping this part of the Shaharit prayer. However, the Hikreh Leb dismisses this possibility, writing that as this is part of the daily prayer schedule, there is no excuse for omitting it. We cannot emphasize enough the importance and value of reading the Korbanot section, whereby we access the atonement and blessings that the sacrifices in the Bet Ha'mikdash bring. This is true of all the Korbanot, but it is especially true of the Ketoret – the section dealing with the incense offering that was brought each day in the Bet Ha'mikdash. The Zohar (Midrash Ha'ne'elam, Parashat Vayera) relates that Eliyahu Ha'nabi once appeared to Rabbi Pinhas, and taught him that the public recitation of the section of the Ketoret has the power to protect against plagues. Rabbi Aha, the Zohar writes, once visited the town of Tarsha, and the residents informed him that a plague had been ravaging the town for seven days, and was increasing in severity. He instructed them to choose the forty most righteous men of the town, and divide them into four groups of ten. Each was to go to a different corner of the town and recite the section of the Ketoret. Afterward, Rabbi Aha urged them to visit those who were on the brink of death, and to read the verses that tell of Aharon ending a plague by offering incense (Bamidbar 17). Sure enough, these patients survived. Elsewhere (Parashat Vayakhel), the Zohar emphasizes the protective powers of the recitation of the Ketoret. It cites Rabbi Shimon Bar Yohai's exclamation that if people recognized just how precious this text is, they would take each word and wear it as a crown on their heads. If one recites the Ketoret with proper concentration, Rabbi Shimon taught, he is spared from punishments both in this world and the next world. The Zohar further teaches that the Ketoret should be recited before the Amida prayer, because it helps clear the pathway to the heavens from the harmful spiritual forces that seek to sabotage one's prayers, ensuring that they reach the heavens. Some explain that the special offerings of the Nesi'im (tribal leaders) which they brought in honor of the consecration of the Mishkan were especially cherished by G-d because they included Ketoret. Moreover, Rabbenu Bahya (Spain, 1255-1340) writes that the moments after the offering of the Ketoret were the most auspicious time for blessings and prayers. This is why the Kohen Gadol would recite a special prayer for the people after offering the Ketoret on Yom Kippur, and why Moshe and Aharon blessed the nation on the day of the Mishkan's inauguration, following the offering of Ketoret. I witnessed the power of the Ketoret recitation firsthand. When my congregation's synagogue was being constructed, we encountered one problem after another. For reasons we do not know, Hashem decided to test us by making the process exceedingly difficult. Nothing was working. We consulted with the great Kabbalist Rav Mordechai Attieh, and he came with ten great scholars. They stood around the construction site and recited the Ketoret. Sure enough, after that point, we were able to move forward and complete the project. The power of the Korbanot section and the rewards offered by its recitation should incentivize all of us to do everything we can to ensure that we read this section each day.

The Torah's most repetitive chapter may conceal one of its most urgent lessons. Through a series of surprising midrashic connections, we discover that the leaders bringing gifts to the Mishkan are the same figures who once clashed bitterly with Moses during the struggle against Pharaoh. Their last-minute act of reconciliation raises a timeless question: what does it take for a divided people to rebuild trust before it's too late?

At the end of this week's parasha Naso , the Torah goes into great detail regarding the donations that the Nasi'im brought to inaugurate the Mishkan . And as we know, each Nasi brought the exact same donation and the Torah repeated each one of them, twelve times, one for each Nasi . Many mefarshim offer explanations as to why the Torah has all this repetition. The sefer Darkeh Musar brings from the Saba m'Kelm who explained, the Torah is teaching us here how Hashem relates to the individual. One should not think if a large group gets together to do a mitzvah that Hashem views it as if that group, so to speak, all got a check for their actions. The parasha of the Nasi'im teaches us, Hashem is happy with each individual separately. Although they all brought the same donations and collectively comprised a group of twelve, Hashem took delight in each one of them independently. Each one of them brought Hashem a different type of joy, depending on the person's background and what each of them had accomplished and experienced in their lives prior to this point. Everyone is always treated as if he is the only one in the world. And this does not only apply when a group of people get together to do a mitzvah. This is always the way it is. When something happens to a group of people, Hashem doesn't deal with them as a group, but rather every single person, with his own hashgacha . Whatever happens to him was decided solely based on what was supposed to happen to him. And the way a person reacts when things happen to him will show how much he really believes in Hashem's hashgacha . The Shomer Emunim writes, if we would know how valuable it is to honestly believe that every single thing that takes place in our lives comes directly from Hashem, our hearts would ignite with endless excitement. Furthermore, the pasuk says, ה' צילך – that Hashem is our shadow. And the Baal Shem Tov explained this to mean that Hashem acts towards us corresponding to the way we act towards Him. If a person says each time that something happens that it was from Hashem, then Hashem will deal with him with extra hashgacha pratit . He will be able to feel Hashem's presence more and he will get more Heavenly help. The pasuk says in Tehillim , ה' משמים השקיף על בני-אדם לראות היש משכיל דורש את אלוקים – Hashem is watching to see who is wise enough to seek Him out. The word אלוקים represents טבע which is nature. And as we know, הטבע is the same numerical value as אלוקים . So the pasuk is saying, Hashem is watching to see who will find Him inside of nature, who will attribute what seems to be natural occurrences, to Him. For this, a person must train himself until instinctively, he is able to say about everything, "That was m'et Hashem." When someone becomes a person who is fully ma'amin in Hashem's constant hashgacha , he will never get angry, he will never have animosity towards anyone, he will save himself from countless averot and he will get a mitzvah aseh each time he believes in Hashem's hashgacha , based on the pasuk, אנכי ה' אלוקיך אשר הוצאתיך מארץ מצרים. The Shomer Emunim gives the following words of chizuk to help strengthen us in this area. He writes, fortunate is the person who is constantly strengthening himself in the area of emunah called hashgacha pratit , because the reward for it in this world is that Hashem will show the person ניסים ונפלאות – miracles and wonders. And therefore, our job as religious Jews is to look at every single thing that takes place in our lives, whether it is obvious good or whether it seems to look bad, and attribute it to Hashem and know that it is absolute good and praise and thank Him for it. We constantly needed to be reminded about this great avodah . May Hashem help us to always see His hand in everything that takes place. Shabbat Shalom.

This episode discusses the Rashi who says that Moshe assembled and disassembled the Mishkan seven times.

Chelek Chof Ches pg 49. Carrying the Torah close to my heart is the correct location for the Torah.The Rebbe explains a powerful difference between the Aron and the other keilim of the Mishkan. While the Leviim transported all the holy objects, the Aron had a unique requirement: “upon the shoulder they shall carry it.” The Rambam brings the story of Dovid and Uzah not as history, but as halacha, the Aron itself requires a specific place. Because it contains the Luchos and a Sefer Torah, its place is to be carriedon the shoulders, close to your heart.. Similarly, a Sefer Torah always has a place it belongs: in the Aron Kodesh in shul, and close to one's heart during travel.In Chassidus, the Luchos represent a revelation of “Hashem's face”,  a direct pnimiyus connection created through Torah. This is the deeper meaning of facing the Aron while carrying it: where a person's focus, identity, and geshmak truly lie. As we come from Shavuos and approach Gimmel Tammuz, the avodah is to keep our “faces” turned toward the Rebbe's inyanim and the Torah of the Rebbe, making sure our geshmak is in the holy stuff.With a HUGE thank you to this Week's Sicha Sponsors:Anonymous, in honor of the birthday and shidduch of our sister.Mrs. Nathanson, in honor of the yahrtzeit of her father, Mordechai ben Shlomo, on Erev Shavuos, and her grandmother, Basya bas Mordechai, on the second day of Shavuos. AndwWith gratitude to Hashem for the many family simchos celebrated this year, including birthdays, an einikel in Melbourne, birthdays of their son Yossi and grandson Aryeh Leib after Yom Tov, and several family graduations, BHMalka Groden, with gratitude for the weekly learning and in honor of Elka's 5th birthday.Anonymous, in honor of sweet revealed brachos for all, open miracles, personal and general Geulah, and of course… Moshiach now!Devorah Leah Stern, in honor of the kallah and chosson, Liba & Yossi, with brachos to build a Binyan Adei Ad, bring much nachas to the Rebbe and their families, and continued nachas from all of our children, BH.And in honor of the birthday of Pesha Henna bas Yetta Gitel, wishing her a complete refuah sheleima.Bassie Deitsch, in honor of the birth of a new granddaughter born to her daughter, Chana Naparstek. She was named today for Bassie's grandmother, Luba Michla. May she grow to be the caring and nurturing person her namesake was.Anonymous, in honor of Sholom Dovber ben Sara on his birthday tomorrow, Yud Gimmel Sivan, mit layngeh gezunteh freilicher yaren, sponsored by his wife, daughters and granddaughters.

Why did the silver trumpets in the Mishkan have to be hammered from a single piece of metal? And what do trumpets used for journeys, war, and Chagim have in common?In Parshas Behaaloscha, Rabbi Prisman uncovers the unifying message of the chatzotzros. Through the story of an elite IDF soldier who never knows where his blacked-out bus will take him - dropped in desert or beach, always on the move - he brings the parsha's "al pi Hashem" to life. Drawing from the Shlah Hakadosh, Rav Hirsch, and the Sefer Hachinuch, he shows that the trumpet is always a wake-up call: in movement, in danger, and in celebration alike.He closes with a story from Rav Elazar Abish about a man whose rebbe mailed back his letter of complaint with every "I" and "me" circled. The message is the same one the trumpet has been sounding all along - are you a Hashem-centric Jew or an egocentric one?

In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on Parshas Nasso — the longest portion in the Torah with 176 verses — Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the profound significance behind the detailed repetition of the identical gifts brought by the leaders (Nesi'im) of each tribe to the Mishkan. Rather than summarizing, the Torah lists every offering individually to teach that even when the external gift is the same, it becomes unique based on the heart, intention, and personal circumstances of the giver.The episode beautifully connects this to core Jewish ideas: every person is completely one-of-a-kind, with their own unique relationship to Hashem, their own way of praying, giving, and serving. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that God doesn't want us to be “like everybody else” but to embrace and cultivate our individuality. This message comes right after Shavuot, teaching that true Torah growth happens when we bring our authentic selves — our unique perspective, strengths, and challenges — into our service of Hashem. Our character traits (middot) are measured differently in each soul, making every person's spiritual journey personal and irreplaceable._____________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 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 27, 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, #Nasso, #Uniqueness, #BeYourself, #Individuality, #Middot, #OneOfAKind ★ Support this podcast ★

In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on Parshas Nasso — the longest portion in the Torah with 176 verses — Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the profound significance behind the detailed repetition of the identical gifts brought by the leaders (Nesi'im) of each tribe to the Mishkan. Rather than summarizing, the Torah lists every offering individually to teach that even when the external gift is the same, it becomes unique based on the heart, intention, and personal circumstances of the giver.The episode beautifully connects this to core Jewish ideas: every person is completely one-of-a-kind, with their own unique relationship to Hashem, their own way of praying, giving, and serving. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that God doesn't want us to be “like everybody else” but to embrace and cultivate our individuality. This message comes right after Shavuot, teaching that true Torah growth happens when we bring our authentic selves — our unique perspective, strengths, and challenges — into our service of Hashem. Our character traits (middot) are measured differently in each soul, making every person's spiritual journey personal and irreplaceable._____________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 26, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 27, 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, #Nasso, #Uniqueness, #BeYourself, #Individuality, #Middot, #OneOfAKind ★ Support this podcast ★

This sicha examines why each nasi brought identical offerings during the dedication of the Mishkan and elaborates on the significance of unity and individuality in Jewish service. It highlights how identical actions can represent diverse intentions and contributions, underscoring communal unity through individual expression https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/018/004_005

This sicha explores the spiritual significance and role of the Menorah in the Mishkan. The Rebbe analyzes how its light represents wisdom and the spreading of divine insight. This connects to broader themes of Torah study and the mission to illuminate the world with holiness and knowledge. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/023/004_002

The Rebbe discusses the identical offerings brought by each prince of the tribes during the dedication of the Mishkan. Although outwardly identical, each represented unique spiritual intentions and contributions. The diversity within their service highlights unity and individual expression in fulfilling divine commandments. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/023/003_002

The Rebbe examines Rashis on Parshas Bamidbar about the Leviyim's role in the Mishkan, dividing their duties into active service (singing, carrying) and protective service (guarding). This distinction resolves apparent contradictions in Rashi's comments, highlighting the Leviyim's unique roles alongside Moshe and Aharon. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/013/001_002

The Rebbe analyzes Rashi's explanation of “Kivala Es HaKodesh,” uncovering deep halachic and spiritual insights about the coverings of the Mishkan vessels, the soul's descent into concealment, and how Torah transforms the physical world into holiness. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/008/001_002

The Rebbe analyzes Rashi's interpretation of 'mineged' in Parshas Bamidbar, explaining its meaning as a specific distance from the Mishkan. This arrangement allowed Bnei Yisrael to approach on Shabbos without violating techum Shabbos. The Rebbe raises questions on Rashi's commentary and draws lessons for maintaining spiritu https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/013/001_001

The Rebbe discusses the specific command to Aharon regarding the lighting of the menorah, highlighting its significance and unique aspects. It draws a parallel between this commandment and broader themes of spiritual service and elevation within the Mishkan. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/002/004_001

The Midrash teaches that the five Humashim – the books that comprise the Torah – are alluded to in the opening verses of the Torah, which tell of the creation of light on the first day of the world's creation. The word "Or" (light) appears five times in these verses, and they parallel the five Humashim. It follows, then, that the fourth Humash – the Book of Bamidbar, which we begin reading this Shabbat – corresponds to the fourth instance of the word "Or" in these verses: "Va'yabdel Elokim Beh Ha'or U'ben Ha'hoshech" – "G-d separated between light and the darkness" (1:4). What might be the connection between the Book of Bamidbar and the "separation" between light and darkness? The Netziv (Rav Naftali Zvi Yehuda Berlin of Volozhin, 1816-1893) offers a fascinating answer, by explaining the primary theme of Sefer Bamidbar. This book, he writes, traces Beneh Yisrael's transition from a miraculous existence to a natural existence. The book begins at Mount Sinai, in the desert, where Beneh Yisrael relied on G-d's miracles in order to survive. They received the manna from the heavens, and water from a supernatural well that accompanied them as they traveled. The Ananeh Ha'kabod ("clouds of glory") protected them from the elements and from enemy attack. Beneh Yisrael journeyed for forty years in a region that was ordinarily uninhabitable, under Hashem's miraculous care and protection. At the end of Sefer Bamidbar, Beneh Yisrael find themselves on the border of the Land of Israel, nearly ready to cross into the land. There they would live a natural existence – fighting wars against enemies, growing crops, building cities, and developing an economy. Of course, this natural existence would require G-d's intervention; even when leading a natural lifestyle, nothing can succeed without Hashem's help. But once they crossed into the land, Beneh Yisrael were no longer cared for miraculously; they lived in accordance with the laws of nature. This is why at the end of the Book of Bamidbar, Beneh Yisrael take up arms and fight wars. They begin preparations for the battles to conquer the land, and for the division of the land. After living a miraculous existence for forty years, they now needed to transition to a natural mode of existence. The Netziv explains that this is why Sefer Bamidbar is associated with the "separation" between light and darkness. Light symbolizes G-d's open miracles, which make His control of the world unmistakably clear and evident. By contrast, darkness symbolizes the veil of the natural world, which conceals the Hand of Providence. When nature follows its course, we do not see Hashem, though we must firmly believe that He controls all events, random and natural as they might outwardly seem. Just as darkness makes it difficult to see that which we know exists, nature makes it difficult to see Hashem's control and governance, but we know that He is behind everything and orchestrating everything that happens. Hence, Sefer Bamidbar is associated with the distinction between light and darkness – because it signifies Beneh Yisrael's transition from a supernatural existence to a natural one. The Netziv explains on this basis why the Sages calls Sefer Bamidbar "Humash Ha'pekduim" – the "Book of Countings," which later evolved into the name, "Numbers." This name refers to two censuses of Beneh Yisrael that were taken in Sefer Bamidbar. We might wonder, why are these events viewed as the primary theme and essence of this book? So much happens in the Book of Bamidbar – why would the Sages focus on the two occasions when the people were counted when choosing a name for this book? The answer, the Netziv writes, is that the two censuses signify the transition that Beneh Yisrael underwent over the course of this Sefer. The first census was conducted for the purpose of arranging Beneh Yisrael's camp around the Mishkan in the desert, whereas the second was conducted to prepare for the apportioning of the territory of Eretz Yisrael among the tribes. The difference between these two censuses reflects the difference between the "light" and the "darkness," between the miraculous existence in the desert, and the natural existence in Eretz Yisrael. Therefore, this Sefer is indeed "Humash Ha'pekudim," a book of "countings," because the two countings demonstrate the transition that constitutes the essence of this book, the transition from the miracles of the desert to life in Eretz Yisrael, where G-d cares for and protects us not overly, but behind the veil of the laws of nature.

Subscribe to the newsletter at https://tinyurl.com/RJDSpotify.Parashat Bemidbar opens Sefer Bamidbar as Israel prepares to leave Mount Sinai for the Promised Land, beginning with a census and an ordered tribal formation around the Mishkan. The repeated emphasis on “limishpehotam, lebet abotam” highlights family, tribe, and named individuals, showing unity built through distinct identities rather than erased differences...Rabbi Dweck has held rabbinic leadership roles in the US and the UK. He is the Rosh Bet Midrash of TheHabura.com and the Rabbi Levy Chair of Jewish Wisdom at the London School of Jewish Studies.For more, check out rabbijosephdweck.com/app.Instagram: https://instagram.com/rabbidweckTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rabbidweckYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RabbiJosephDweck

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 ★

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 ★

he promise of the Mishkan end with: “I will not be disgusted by you”?Why introduce rejection in the middle of love?Most human dysfunction begins with one fear:“If you really knew me, you would leave.”In this shiur, delivered in Tomer Devorah, Rav Burg explores: • the psychology of shame • why human beings hide • the fear beneath perfectionism, defensiveness, people-pleasing, anger, addiction, and withdrawal • the Gottman Institute's concept of contempt as the destroyer of attachment • Adam HaRishon's first reaction to sin: hiding • and the radically different relationship Hashem offers humanity:“I already see everything and I am still here.”The Mishkan is not merely a place where Hashem dwells. It is the destruction of shame itself.

Experiencing The Feast Of Shavuot  Part 6:  Is It The Genuine Anointing Or The Counterfeit Anointing?  -  English only.  There is so much to learn from the Mishkan, the Tabernacle in the Wilderness. Even the anointing oil was important.  But do you realize that the oil carries a serious warning for us today?    This is a rebroadcast of a podcast originally recorded May 23, 2023.  This year we celebrate Shavuot on Sunday, May 24, 2026.

The Midrash tells that each day, King David would have plans for the day, intending to go to various places and to see different people, but his legs always brought him to the Bet Midrash to learn Torah. The Or Ha'haim (Rav Haim Ben-Attar, 1696-1743) understood the Midrash's comment literally, that King David's legs had "a mind of their own," so-to-speak, and would bring David to the study hall despite his plans to go elsewhere. David had such a strong, deep-seated desire to learn Torah that his legs automatically took him to the Bet Midrash, even when he did not plan to go there. The Or Ha'haim explains on this basis the Torah's promise of great reward "Im Be'hukotai Telechu" – "If you walk according to My statutes" (Vayikra 26:3). This means that we are worthy of great reward if we feel such love and passion for Torah that we walk "Be'hukotai" – toward the Torah's laws, to learn, even when we do not intend to, because our legs automatically bring us to the study hall. Hacham Baruch Ben-Haim, however, offered a different explanation of the Midrash's comment. He said that each morning, the Yeser Ha'ra (evil inclination) would try to convince David to stay in bed, and David fought the Yeser Ha'ra by saying that he needed to get up to tend to his personal affairs. The Yeser Ha'ra has no problem with us getting up for mundane purposes, and so it left David alone and discontinued its efforts to persuade David to remain in bed. Once David got out of bed without having to struggle against the Yeser Ha'ra, he then went to the Bet Midrash to learn Torah instead of tending to his personal affairs. This was David's strategy for defeating the Yeser Ha'ra in the morning and overcoming the difficult challenge of getting up early to serve Hashem. This reading of the Midrash perhaps sheds light on a difficult verse in Shir Hashirim (4:16): "Uri Safon U'bo'i Teman" – "Arise in the north, and come to the south." The north is associated with material blessings, as the Shulhan (table) in the Mishkan – which symbolized Parnasa (livelihood) – was positioned to the north side. The south is associated with Torah wisdom, as the Menorah – the symbol of the "light" of Torah – was situated along the southern wall of the Mishkan. For this reason, the Gemara teaches that one who seeks wealth should turn somewhat to the north while praying, whereas one who seeks Torah wisdom should turn somewhat to the south. Accordingly, the verse in Shir Hashirim may be understood to mean that we should tell the Yeser Ha'ra in the morning that "Uri Safon" – we are waking up for the sake of pursuing wealth, to work and make a respectable livelihood, as the Yeser Ha'ra will then cease his efforts to convince us to stay in bed. But thereafter, "Bo'i Teman" – we should go "south," to the synagogue and study hall to pray and immerse ourselves in Torah study.

The signs of a kosher animal serve as spiritual benchmarks to ensure our physical involvements remain refined. The juxtaposition of the Mishkan's inauguration with prohibitions against eating insects teaches that even the most spiritually exalted individual requires the discipline of divine decrees to remain grounded. King David's "leaping and dancing" before the Ark in this week's Haftarah represents a state of joy that transcends intellect, serving as a model for our own connection to Hashem as we approach the era of Moshiach. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Shemini in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

What if holiness begins not in peak moments—but in everyday acts of restraint? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Michael Hattin explore Parshat Shemini, moving from the dramatic highs and tragic lows of the Mishkan's inauguration to the everyday discipline of kashrut. They examine why the Torah offers detailed dietary laws without a clear explanation, and how classical commentators understand their purpose—from physical health to spiritual refinement. The conversation ultimately reframes kashrut as a practice of restraint, shaping moral awareness and helping us live with intention in even the most ordinary acts.

This week is Parashat Tzav as well as Shabbat HaGadol . On Shabbat HaGadol , the final Shabbat that the Jewish People were in Mitzrayim , Hashem commanded them to begin the process of offering the Korban Pesach . Why did Hashem command the Jews to take the sheep for the korban four days before they were going to offer it? The Midrash answers, the time of the Geula had arrived but the Jews did not have the merits to be redeemed so Hashem gave them an additional commandment regarding the korban to help them. Look how precious a mitzvah is! Even the preparation of the Korban Pesach was able to give the Jews the merit to be redeemed. The parshiot we are reading now are discussing the korbanot . The pasuk says when a Jew brought a korban, it was considered a ריח ניחוח לה' – it brought up a pleasing aroma to Hashem. What did Hashem love so much about a korban ? Perhaps we can explain from a question asked by the Acharonim : Why is it that the construction of the Mishkan did not override Shabbat while the offering of korbanot did? Seemingly, the building of a home for the Shechina to dwell in should be more important than offering sacrifices there. Rabbi Menashe Reizman quoted the sefer Nachat Yaakov who answered that the construction of the Mishkan was primarily done by Hashem. It was not humanly possible for a person to put it up, as the pasuk says הוקם המשכן. Many of the vessels as well were made by Hashem. The Menorah, for example, Hashem told Moshe to throw it into a fire and the Menorah came out. All the embroidery was miraculously made. Regarding the construction of the Second Beit HaMikdash, there were enormous stones, some 30 feet tall. How was it possible for a person to lift them so high upon a wall. The Yerushalmi says, when the people made the effort, Hashem miraculously lifted those stones for them. So therefore, since the Mishkan and the Beit HaMikdash were made by Hashem, although it was very important to Him, that did not override Shabbat. The korbanot , however, were performed exclusively by us. All of the difficult tasks involved in bringing a korban were done by the sweat of the people and Hashem loved their deeds so much. He loves when we put toil in to fulfill a mitzvah. That is what is so precious to Him and that even overrides Shabbat. Although today we cannot put in the same efforts of offering an actual korban , there's still a lot that we can do. The Midrash at the beginning of this week's parasha brings a mashal about a king who was traveling through the desert and his good friend came there to give him a basket of figs and a barrel of wine. The king told him, "You have honored me greatly by coming all the way here to give these thing to me." The friend replied, "My master, the King, this is just a small token of the honor that I want to give you. When you come back to your palace, you'll see there how much honor I'm really going to give you." That's the mashal. The nimshal is Hashem tells us, "זאת תורת העולה – You have honored Me by bringing a korban olah ." And we tell Hashem, "This is just a small token of the honor that we're capable of bringing You. When You come back to Your palace, there we're going to give You the real honor." This Midrash is obviously talking about today's time when we can't offer a real korban . So what temporary honor are we giving Hashem? Learning about the korbanot , drawing lessons from the korbanot . That in it of itself is so precious to Hashem and He considers it like we are honoring Him. But we tell Hashem, "Soon, when You bring back the Beit HaMikdash, there we're going to truly honor You, the way we're supposed to." As for today, we're still learning the lessons of korbanot , we're seeing how precious the nitty gritty involvement of a Jew in a mitzvah is to Hashem. We hope that just like Shabbat HaGadol was the last Shabbat for the Jews in Mitzrayim , so too it will be our last Shabbat in this long exile. B'ezrat Hashem, we should see the rebuilding of the Beit HaMikdash and be able to bring Hashem true glory inside of it. Shabbat Shalom.

The most important aspect of "Pesach" in the Mishkan and Beis HaMikdash was the Korban Pesach itself. Despite us not presently brining the korban, understanding its significance will unlock a whole new dimension of understanding regarding the yom tov of Pesach.

In this quick but powerful shiur on Vayakhel-Pekudei, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares an insight from Rabbi Yaakov Nagel (Senior Rabbi of Heimish of Houston) about the unique double-sided drapes (Yeri'ot) in the Mishkan. While most embroidery (Ma'asei Choshev) was identical on both sides, one special curtain at the entrance to the Kodesh HaKodashim (Holy of Holies) featured a completely different image on the inner side—yet no human ever saw it. The Kohen Gadol entered once a year, performed the Yom Kippur service, and exited backward, never turning to view the inner curtain. So why invest in an unseen design?Rabbi Wolbe explains: It teaches that Hashem's perspective often differs radically from ours. We may undervalue a mitzvah (thinking it's "small") or ourselves (feeling unworthy or limited), but Hashem sees infinite worth. A simple act—holding back lashon hara, a quiet prayer, a moment of restraint—may earn unimaginable reward in heaven. Conversely, we sometimes overestimate our deeds. The hidden curtain reminds us: some mitzvot and personal potentials are visible only to Hashem, whose valuation transcends human sight. This applies especially to parenting: parents must reflect children's true greatness and potential (like the mirrors of last week's shiur), seeing beyond their self-doubt to ignite confidence and growth—just as Hashem sees our hidden light._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 17, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 18, 2026_____________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, #Flattery, #Chanufa, #Honor, #BadInfluence, #IntentionalLiving, #PositiveEnvironment, #DeleteTheApp, #ShalomBayit ★ Support this podcast ★

Parshas Vayakhel & Pekudei: The Altar Within As we conclude Sefer Shemos, the Mishkan is finally completed and the Divine Presence descends among the Jewish people.  Yet within the Mishkan stands a mystery. Unlike the other sacred vessels, the two altars cannot become ritually impure. Why are they different? Drawing on the Gemara and the Lubavitcher Rebbe, this episode reveals a powerful insight: the altar represents the deepest point within every Jew, a place that can never become spiritually impure. 

There are three ways to achieve transcendental greatness: There is the path of intense practice and training in your desired field of excellence; there is the path of Bezalel who was endowed with supernatural abilities and preordained to greatness; and there is a third path -- the path of the ascension of heart. In our Parsha we learn about people who accomplished otherworldly things: Bezalel and his army of lieutenants built the Mishkan and its many vessels and accouterments. A deep study of the subject reveals that Bezalel and his volunteer helpers took different paths. In this Parsha Podcast we study the Third Path.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 Torah repeats the details of the Mishkan to emphasize that the ultimate revelation of the Divine comes not from the spiritual plan alone, but from its realization in the physical world. Tefillah is the ladder that lifts every part of a person—even the most mundane aspects of life—into connection with the Infinite. The concealment at the end of Sefer Shemos prepares the way for the deeper revelation that begins Sefer Vayikra, teaching that darkness itself becomes the catalyst for greater light. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Pekudei in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

The Torah's wording that work “shall be done” teaches that a Jew's relationship to livelihood must remain external—performed with the hands but never allowed to occupy the heart and mind. The 39 melachos prohibited on Shabbos correspond to the activities used to construct the Mishkan, revealing that all human labor has the potential to transform the world into a dwelling place for Hashem. The joy of Adar reflects the ultimate transformation of darkness into light, revealing the deepest Divine presence specifically through the challenges of exile. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Vayekhel in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.

Can self-reflection become a path to holiness? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash explore Parshat Vayakhel–Pekudei through a striking detail of the Mishkan: the women's mirrors used to create the basin for the priests. Drawing on Midrash and interpretation, they reflect on how mirrors symbolize self-awareness and identity—reminding us that serving God begins with knowing who we are. The conversation asks how self-reflection, relationships, and moral intention can transform ordinary human awareness into sacred service.