Precepts and commandments in Judaism
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Almost Daily Jewish Wisdom at Beit Hamidrash of Woodland Hills
Rabbi Vann
I Woke Up with Anxiety... Then I Did ThisThis class is the fourth in a series on a Maamar (discourse) by the Alter Rebbe, "Ani Hashem Elokeichem," said on Shabbos Parshas Shlach, 28 Sivan, 5570, June 30, 1810, published in Likkutei Torah Shlach. It was presented by Rabbi YY Jacobson on Thursday, Parshas Pinchas, 17 Tammuz, 5786, July 2, 2026, at Bais Medrash Ohr Chaim in Monsey, NY.View Source Sheets: https://portal.theyeshiva.net/api/source-sheets/9948
The Rebbe writes that true growth for a Jew is not about the passage of time, but about increasing in Torah and mitzvos. He encourages strengthening faith and joy through learning Chassidus, and reminds about the daily recitation of Tehillim after davening. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/012/007/4268
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Parshas Chukas-Balak. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven Mesivta Camp, New Bloomfield, PA.
In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on the double portion Chukas-Balak, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the opening of Parshas Chukas and the enigmatic mitzvah of the Parah Aduma (Red Heifer). This completely red, unyoked cow whose ashes purify those contaminated by contact with the dead is presented as the quintessential “chok” — a divine decree whose reason is beyond human comprehension.Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Torah calls it “Zos Chukas HaTorah” (this is the decree of the Torah) to teach that the essence of Torah observance is fulfilling Hashem's will, not only when we understand the reasons. He draws powerful parallels to the shofar on Rosh Hashanah (“Rachmana amar tik'u” — because the Merciful One said to blow it), the sages' protective decrees (yichud, harchakos, not reading by candlelight on Shabbos), and the oral Torah's necessity. Stories from the Talmud and historical examples illustrate the greatness of following rabbinic guidance even without full explanation, and the dangers of basing observance solely on logic or “reasons” (as seen in certain historical movements).The episode culminates in a call to observe all Mitzvos — even those we don't fully understand, like avoiding Lashon Hara — purely because they are the divine will of Hashem, the ultimate Source._____________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 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 24, 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, #Chukas, #Balak, #ParahAduma, #Chok, #Decree, #RedHeifer, #Shofar, #LashonHara, #OralTorah, #RabbinicDecrees ★ Support this podcast ★
In this Parsha Review Podcast episode on the double portion Chukas-Balak, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe focuses on the opening of Parshas Chukas and the enigmatic mitzvah of the Parah Aduma (Red Heifer). This completely red, unyoked cow whose ashes purify those contaminated by contact with the dead is presented as the quintessential “chok” — a divine decree whose reason is beyond human comprehension.Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Torah calls it “Zos Chukas HaTorah” (this is the decree of the Torah) to teach that the essence of Torah observance is fulfilling Hashem's will, not only when we understand the reasons. He draws powerful parallels to the shofar on Rosh Hashanah (“Rachmana amar tik'u” — because the Merciful One said to blow it), the sages' protective decrees (yichud, harchakos, not reading by candlelight on Shabbos), and the oral Torah's necessity. Stories from the Talmud and historical examples illustrate the greatness of following rabbinic guidance even without full explanation, and the dangers of basing observance solely on logic or “reasons” (as seen in certain historical movements).The episode culminates in a call to observe all Mitzvos — even those we don't fully understand, like avoiding Lashon Hara — purely because they are the divine will of Hashem, the ultimate Source._____________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 23, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 24, 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, #Chukas, #Balak, #ParahAduma, #Chok, #Decree, #RedHeifer, #Shofar, #LashonHara, #OralTorah, #RabbinicDecrees ★ Support this podcast ★
This class explores the three fundamental categories of mitzvos—mishpatim (rational laws), edus (commemorative observances), and chukim (statutes beyond logic)—and delves into the lessons of Parshas Chukas, highlighting the spiritual vitality found in serving Hashem with joy. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/004_bamidbar/006_chukas/006
The Rebbe acknowledges the recipient's success with his students and encourages him to strive for even greater achievements, emphasizing that Torah and mitzvos are limitless. He addresses a question about the soul's capacity, clarifying distinctions between essence and light. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/006/2036
The Rebbe writes that true help for Eretz Yisrael comes through strengthening Torah and mitzvos, not through external means alone. He emphasizes the importance of a strong spiritual foundation and requests details regarding an electric saw for Kfar Chabad. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/006/2034
The Rebbe writes that instead of involving ourselves in worldly affairs, we should strengthen our commitment to Torah and mitzvos, and through this, worldly matters will be rectified. He blesses the recipient for a kosher and joyous Pesach celebrated in true freedom. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/007/2065
The Rebbe writes that each person must recognize their responsibility in perfecting Klal Yisrael by fulfilling their unique role in Torah and mitzvos. He explains the connection between every Jew and the letters of the Torah, emphasizing communal effort and individual contribution. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/009/2151
The Rebbe encourages the congregants of Rodef Shalom, originally from Kiev, to continue growing in Torah and mitzvos. He emphasizes the importance of preserving the warm traditions of their ancestors and highlights that Torah, mitzvos, and the Jewish people are eternal. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/010/2157_2
The Rebbe writes that involvement in kosher education, which brings Jewish hearts closer to their Father in Heaven, must lead to more mitzvos and not spiritual decline. He encourages maintaining Torah study and assures that sincere effort will yield great success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/007/010/2180
The story of the Mekoshesh is placed next to the parsha of Tzitzis to teach that Shabbos is as valuable as all the Mitzvos. Chazal tell us that the Mekoshesh had noble intentions, but he was still stoned to death for being Mechallel Shabbos. Some thoughts on the value of Shabbos and how seriously we must view it.Have a good Shabbos
Have We Distorted Torah and Chassidus to Make Ourselves Feel Better?This is the second class in a series on the discourse "V'atah Yigdal Na Koach Adnai," presented by the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Schnuer Zalman of Liadi, on Shabbos Shlach, 28 Sivan, 5566, June 14, 1806, published in Likkutei Torah Parshas Shlach. Rabbi YY Jacobson gave the class on Thursday, Parshas Behaaloscha 19 Sivan, 5786, June 4, 2026, at Bais Medrash Ohr Chaim in Monsey, NY. The class explores how you know when your healing journeys have taken a detour, and how we know when we are distorting Torah and Chassidus to make us feel better. Ultimately, all healing is about alignment and surrender to Source, and brings us into a deeper relationship with Torah and Mitzvos. We discuss how the Arizal and all the Tzaddikim reached their deepest spiritual experiences through the joy of Mitzvos.View Source Sheets: https://portal.theyeshiva.net/api/source-sheets/9930
This class explores the story of the spies in Parshas Shlach, examining their mistake and its relevance today. We learn that Hashem empowers us to fulfill every mitzvah, balancing natural effort with trust, and that true spiritual growth comes through concrete action. https://www.torahrecordings.com/classes/by_parsha/004_bamidbar/004_shelach/026
What Does The Mitzvah Bring Me?
The Rebbe addresses a feeling of spiritual lack, advising daily charity and Chasidus study before prayer, diligence in Torah learning, and maintaining joy during mitzvah observance. He emphasizes that recognizing one's deficiencies can coexist with heartfelt joy in serving G-d. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/011/009/3542
In Ask Away #34, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe tackles profound and sometimes challenging questions with clarity, warmth, and deep Torah insight. The episode begins with a clear explanation of the 613 Mitzvos, the 365 prohibitions, and the 7 Noahide laws, emphasizing that we should treat every commandment as if it were the most important. He then explores the deeper purpose of the Temple — not only an external structure but a call for us to elevate ourselves through real-life struggle and growth, rather than remaining in isolated holiness.Rabbi Wolbe addresses the complexities of Shalom Bayit in interfaith marriages, the beauty of learning to speak each other's “language” in marriage, and offers a heartfelt defense of Chassidic customs while highlighting the extraordinary Chesed (kindness) of the Chassidic community (Hatzalah, Bikur Cholim, etc.). He responds thoughtfully to a difficult contemporary question about enemies and chastisement, reminding listeners that the ultimate solution lies in our own Teshuvah and closeness to Hashem. The session closes with inspiration on the centrality of Torah study throughout Jewish history and the incredible resources available today.As always, Rabbi Wolbe blends practical halacha, historical perspective, personal stories, and motivational guidance, leaving listeners empowered to grow in their relationship with Hashem.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on February 22, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 28, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #613Mitzvot, #ShalomBayit, #Chassidic, #Hatzalah, #TempleWithin, #JewishUnity, #LoveYourFellowJew ★ Support this podcast ★
In Ask Away #34, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe tackles profound and sometimes challenging questions with clarity, warmth, and deep Torah insight. The episode begins with a clear explanation of the 613 Mitzvos, the 365 prohibitions, and the 7 Noahide laws, emphasizing that we should treat every commandment as if it were the most important. He then explores the deeper purpose of the Temple — not only an external structure but a call for us to elevate ourselves through real-life struggle and growth, rather than remaining in isolated holiness.Rabbi Wolbe addresses the complexities of Shalom Bayit in interfaith marriages, the beauty of learning to speak each other's “language” in marriage, and offers a heartfelt defense of Chassidic customs while highlighting the extraordinary Chesed (kindness) of the Chassidic community (Hatzalah, Bikur Cholim, etc.). He responds thoughtfully to a difficult contemporary question about enemies and chastisement, reminding listeners that the ultimate solution lies in our own Teshuvah and closeness to Hashem. The session closes with inspiration on the centrality of Torah study throughout Jewish history and the incredible resources available today.As always, Rabbi Wolbe blends practical halacha, historical perspective, personal stories, and motivational guidance, leaving listeners empowered to grow in their relationship with Hashem.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on February 22, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on May 28, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #613Mitzvot, #ShalomBayit, #Chassidic, #Hatzalah, #TempleWithin, #JewishUnity, #LoveYourFellowJew ★ Support this podcast ★
Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu
The Rebbe discusses the indirect influence of the land of Israel (Eretz Yisrael) on the observance of mitzvos. He explores the connection between Eretz Yisrael and mitzvah performance, highlighting how being in or connected to the land enhances one's ability and obligation to fulfill mitzvos. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/023/013_002
Having received his Ph.D. in mathematical logic at Brandeis University, Rabbi Dr. Dovid Gottlieb went on to become Professor of Philosophy at Johns Hopkins University. Today he is a senior faculty member at Ohr Somayach in Jerusalem. An accomplished author and lecturer, Rabbi Gottlieb has electrified audiences with his stimulating and energetic presentations on ethical and philosophical issues. In Jewish Philosophy with Rabbi Dr. Gottlieb, we are invited to explore the most fascinating and elemental concepts of Jewish Philosophy. https://podcasts.ohr.edu/ podcasts@ohr.edu
All the Mitzvos Came From Har Sinai (Behar-Bechukosai 5786)
Learning Pri Tzaddick by Rav Tzaddock HaCohen on Parshat Behar Bechukosai Shabbos Chazak - Emuna of the 7th year Shmita, Har Sinai - 7 weeks to Shavuot, Shabbos Chazak, to Chukim - the Mitzvos we do Lshmah which includes the True Universal Income of Souls impacting the heart level. Weekly Class at Shirat David after Mincha 1st Mariv, all welcome... Cover
008 Chullin 27a- Lechatchilah By Shechitah and Mitzvos
Does adding stringencies lead to burnout or protect our service? The Rebbe explains that unless one is on the level of a "Merkavah" (divine chariot), fences are not just extra piety—they are a Torah obligation. By sanctifying the permissible, we create the necessary protection to ensure our success in Mitzvos. https://www.torahrecordings.com/likutei-sichos/001/038
Unification of Souls during Torah and Mitzvos is a huge part of Chizzuk from Chassidus, through Learning Lessons in Tanya chapter 41 @ TheFamilyMinyan.com aka The Shtiebel we bring alive this level Kol Yisrael... Unity of Souls we are always part of the Kehilah Divine flow of a double parsha Vayahkel Pikudei Shabbos HaChodesh Purim to Pesach etc...Cover
Surrounded by Mitzvos
Lessons and thoughts from the Parsha on the impact of the day-to-day Mitzvos.
Episode #232: The Miracle Of The 3 Mitzvos
Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on Halacha Purim. Shiur recorded in Yeshivas Ohr Reuven, Monsey, NY.
Classes on Rambam, divided according to the daily schedule.
The Mishneh Torah was the Rambam's (Rabbi Moses ben Maimon) magnum opus, a work spanning hundreds of chapters and describing all of the laws mentioned in the Torah. To this day it is the only work that details all of Jewish observance, including those laws which are only applicable when the Holy Temple is in place. Participating in one of the annual study cycles of these laws (3 chapters/day, 1 chapter/day, or Sefer Hamitzvot) is a way we can play a small but essential part in rebuilding the final Temple.
The Jewish people displayed immense courage by keeping the Egyptian deity (a sheep) in their homes for four days, teaching us that redemption comes from performing Mitzvos with pride and without fear. The difference between the letters Hey (Matzah) and Ches (Chametz) illustrates how humility allows for teshuvah. The Frierdiker Rebbe's unique approach was characterized by "going big" in actuality and prioritizing material aid to others as a necessary vessel for spiritual influence, rather than starting with rebuke. Amidst the confusion at the Red Sea, Nachshon ben Aminadav taught us to ignore the debates of competing factions and move decisively toward the goal even if it requires self-sacrifice. Biographical stories about the Frierdiker Rebbe, including his grandfather's prediction at his bris, receiving a "Chassidic kiss" (a Maamar) from his father, and being designated as a successor at age 17. This class, taught by Rabbi Shais Taub, is based on Parshas Bo in Likkutei Sichos Vol. 1.