Podcasts about Rabbi

The pasuk says at the beginning of this week's parshiot , ויקהל משה את כל עדת בני ישראל – Moshe gathered the entire nation, men women and children, and repeated the commandments that Hashem gave him regarding the building of the mishkan . The Ramban explains, this gathering took place after they got the second set of luchot and Hashem made a new covenant with them that He would rest His presence amongst them and His love for them returned like it was before they did the sin of the egel . The sefer Imrei Yitzchak asked, if all that took place was that everything was going to go back to the way it was before they did the egel , why did they need a new gathering just to repeat all the details of the commandments again? Why couldn't Moshe just tell the Jewish People we're continuing with the project as originally planned. The Rabbi answered based on the Gemara in Masechet Shabbat which says, when the Jewish People sinned with the egel , it was like a bride being unfaithful to her husband at their own wedding ceremony. In such a situation, it would be impossible for this husband to ever view that bride the same as he did before. Hashem, on the other hand, did something beyond nature. Even after the treacherous sin that His nation committed, once they had made teshuva , He loved them the same, just like he loved them before they committed that sin. And for that, Hashem wanted everyone gathered to publicize that He was going to reside amongst them just like He was going to before. As well,every single detail needed to be reaffirmed that it was going to take place with the same love. It is true that sin distances a person from Hashem, but fortunately for us, Hashem gives us ways to return to Him and have an even greater relationship with Him than we had before the sin. But we have to believe in Hashem's mercy to take us back and we have to believe in our potential to get close to Him, despite our past deeds. Rabbi Nachman Seltzer related a story that Rabbi Roseman told him about himself. Rabbi Roseman was walking home one night from the yeshiva in which he taught and came across two boys standing on the sidewalk talking to each other. One of them, whose name was Shmuli, he knew, but as for the other one, who had long hair and was wearing clothing designed to draw attention, as were the assorted accessories that were on him, he did not know. Shmuli called the Rabbi to come over, mentioning that they were involved in a very important conversation regarding reward and punishment and free will. The Rabbi came and added whatever insights he could on that topic for the next 20 minutes. And then, as he was about to leave, he recalled how a few years earlier he gave a boy off the derech some encouraging words that made a huge impact on his life. And so, he did not want to let this opportunity go by without trying the same. He said to that other boy, Jake, "Before I go, could you please do me a favor?" Jake looked surprised and asked what the Rabbi needed. The Rabbi said, "Can you give me a beracha ? I see that you are going through a challenging time in your life and yet, you are still working very hard to figure out the proper direction to take. The value of this is tremendous. I really want a beracha from you." Jake then rested his hands gently on the Rabbi's head and gave him whatever beracha he could think of, and then they parted ways. Two years later, Shmuli got engaged and invited Rabbi Roseman to the engagement party. At that party, Shmuli was so excited to show Rabbi Roseman a good friend of his. He pointed to Jake, who was then wearing a crisp, white shirt and nice pants and a velvet kippah on his head. Shmuli told the Rabbi, the time that he asked Jake to give him a beracha changed his life. He was able to tap into the holiness of his neshama afterward and he made a complete turn around. Every Jew has endless potential for greatness. Hashem is yearning for everyone to get close to Him. Even if people have fallen in the past, they can still reach levels that are even higher than they could have had they not fallen in the first place. And therefore, everyone is encouraged, no matter what they have done, to come back and be close to Hashem. Shabbat Shalom.

Very often we find ourselves in need of assistance from other people. Sometimes we need to get a meeting with someone. Sometimes we need to find favor in another person's eyes. And sometimes we need someone to help us even though we know that we do not find favor in his eyes. At those moments, we must remember that the main hishtadlut is always with Hashem. He is the only One who determines whether we will receive what we need. He can arrange a meeting. He can place favor in other people's eyes toward us. And He can cause someone to help us even when, naturally speaking, we would not find favor in that person's eyes. A man told me that he had been trying for the longest time to get a meeting with a world-famous company. He felt that if he could obtain their licensing rights, it would completely transform the scope of his business. However, despite all of his efforts, he could not even get a single response from them. Recently, he was visiting a friend's office in Manhattan. While he was there, he received a phone call that seemed as though it would take some time. As he spoke, he began walking around the building aimlessly. A few minutes later, he found himself standing near an elevator. Suddenly the doors opened and a group of people stepped out. They asked him if he knew where a certain office was located. Since he knew the building, he told them it was one floor above. At that moment, he realized that this group represented the very company he had been trying to contact. They had flown in from across the country for a meeting with someone else, but had accidentally gone to the wrong floor. And he happened to be standing there the moment the elevator opened. Among the group he recognized someone he had once known who now worked for the company. He immediately told him how much he had been trying to arrange a meeting. The man replied that he would be happy to help him. Hashem can arrange a meeting even with people who seem completely unreachable. Another man, whom we will call Solomon, told me about a business meeting he recently had with a new buyer from a very large chain store. As they were speaking before the meeting began, they suddenly realized that the gardener who had recently done work at Solomon's home was the buyer's brother. This was not Solomon's usual gardener. He had needed a major job done quickly, and his regular gardener was unable to handle it. The new gardener completed the job, but afterward charged Solomon more than he had originally quoted, explaining that the work had turned out to be much more difficult than expected. Solomon could easily have argued with him about the price. Instead, he simply paid him with a smile. The gardener later told his brother, the buyer, about this incident and how impressed he was that Solomon had paid without complaint. As a result, even before Solomon had begun discussing the product he hoped to sell, he had already found tremendous favor in the buyer's eyes. I read a story about Rabbi Meir Schickman, who spent three years in a ghetto during the Holocaust and was later transferred to a labor camp. Each day the prisoners received only one piece of bread. Usually, people would eat the bread immediately, because if they waited it might be stolen, and going even one day without bread could endanger their lives. Rabbi Schickman had a different practice. Each Friday he would save his bread so that he could use it on Friday night to fulfill the mitzvah of Seudat Shabbat. One Friday, however, his bread was stolen. What pained him most was not his hunger, but the thought that he would not be able to fulfill the mitzvah of the Shabbat meal. In the camp there was a self-hating Jew who served as a police officer overseeing the prisoners' work. He was often even harsher toward the Jews than the Nazis themselves, and everyone was afraid of him. Rabbi Schickman desperately wanted bread for the Shabbat meal, and so he decided that he would ask this officer for bread. The other prisoners warned him not to do so, fearing he might be beaten simply for making the request. Nevertheless, the Rabbi approached him and asked. Amazingly, the officer gave him not just a little bread, but two large loaves—enough for everyone in his bunker to eat the Shabbat meals. Hashem can arrange a meeting. Hashem can place favor in someone's eyes. And Hashem can cause a person to give—even when, according to nature, there is no reason he should.

In this special series devoted to widening our circle of empathy for people who often feel marginalized or misunderstood, watch this deeply thoughtful conversation with Rabbi Lisa Grushcow—a scholar, spiritual leader, and bridge-builder—at a time when Jewish communities are facing not only a rise in antisemitism and hate crimes.In the aftermath of the Bondi beach terrorist attack on Jewish Australians, Rabbi Grushcow reflects on Jewish identity today and makes a compelling case for why empathy for Jewish fear, grief, and vulnerability is essential to building safer, more compassionate communities.Together, we discuss:Why Jewish identity includes history, culture, belonging and faithThe history of anti-semitism and how it's being expressed todayThe importance of extending empathy to communities whose pain you don't shareThis conversation is about bridge-building through purposeful empathy and discovering why moral courage is needed now, from all of us, every single day. 00:00 Preview01:04 Introduction 02:58 About Rabbi Lisa Grushcow05:39 Being a Rabbi 08:06 Judaism as peoplehood, covenant, and practice13:11 What does it mean to be Jewish in today's world?17:57 Service and purpose: A Rabbi's approach to wellbeing20:27 What is the significance of Shabbat?28:26 The difference between anti-zionism and anti-semitism32:15 Why does dehumanization lead to hate crimes?36:38 Meaningful allyship against anti-semitism42:31 Rabbi Grushcow's Op-Ed46:29 Demonstrating genuine solidarity with Jewish communities51:12 Rabbi Lisa Grushcow's Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH RABBI✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-grushcow-809215282/✩ Temple Emanu El-Beth Sholom https://templemontreal.ca/CONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialSHOW NOTES✩ Op-Ed https://montrealgazette.com/opinion/opinion-this-is-what-a-zionist-looks-likeVideo edited by Jad Misri, Green Horizon Studio

In Day 132 of the Mussar Masterclass (p. 746 in the Orchot Tzadikim, Gate of Flattery), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores permitted and forbidden forms of flattery (Chanufah). He begins with the positive: one should "flatter" one's wife to preserve shalom bayit—genuinely compliment her cooking, appearance, and character (not lying, but finding and highlighting her unique beauty and goodness, as every person has redeemable qualities viewed through the right lens). This extends to rabbis flattering students to encourage Torah learning, acceptance of rebuke, and mitzvah observance; creditors to ease pressure; and anyone influenceable toward good—using pleasant, positive words to open hearts rather than harsh confrontation, which often fails in our generation.The episode contrasts this with forbidden flattery: validating the wicked (even for personal gain), excessive courtesy that implies approval, or building false trust to later exploit (genevat da'at – stealing the mind, e.g., pretending interest as a customer for air conditioning). Flattery closes doors of teshuvah by reinforcing evil without shame, brings divine wrath, blocks prayers, and perverts justice (e.g., lawyers overly friendly with judges). Rabbi Wolbe stresses strategic positivity (e.g., spotlighting a troubled student's strengths like tree-climbing to rebuild self-worth) while warning against neutrality toward sin—stand for Hashem's honor, distance from mockers of Torah, and avoid environments that normalize negativity._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 12, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 11, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Flattery, #Chanufa, #Praising, #Rebuke, #LashonHara, #StandUpForTruth, #Ramchal, #ZealForTorah ★ Support this podcast ★

In this continuation of the Gate of Flattery (Sha'ar HaChanufah), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe examines the seventh component: the sin of abstaining from rebuke (tochacha) when one knows the community or individuals are "stiff-necked" (k'shei oref) and unlikely to listen. While it's a mitzvah not to reprove a mocker who will hate you (per Proverbs), one must not assume failure without trying—perhaps the words will penetrate and inspire change. Even righteous people were punished in the Temple's destruction for not rebuking when possible. Silence can imply agreement, especially when hearing lashon hara, profanity, or mockery of Torah/mitzvot; one should speak wisely or zealously defend Hashem's honor (as in Ramchal's Mesilat Yesharim, Ch. 19), showing love for God by hating His enemies and subduing evil influence.Rabbi Wolbe stresses strategic rebuke—knowing the person (e.g., parents sometimes achieve more by silent example than words), avoiding unnecessary hatred, and recognizing when flattery or excessive courtesy to the wicked is forbidden (except out of real fear for safety). He cites Mordechai's refusal to bow to Haman as exemplary: as leader, he could not validate evil, even for peace. Neutrality or honor toward the wicked (e.g., praising them or being overly cordial) validates sin and risks personal corruption through constant exposure. The episode urges vigilance in environments, friendships, and leadership roles—stand up for truth, defend God's honor, and avoid isolation in negative circles._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on January 12, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 10, 2026_____________This series on Orchos Tzadikim/Ways of the Righteous is produced in partnership with Hachzek.Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.We are using the Treasure of Life edition of the Orchos Tzadikkim (Published by Feldheim)_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Flattery, #Chanufa, #Praising, #Rebuke, #LashonHara, #StandUpForTruth, #Ramchal, #ZealForTorah ★ Support this podcast ★

Hilchos Shabbos - Intro to Muktzah - Rabbi Avi Bin-Nun

A rabbi excused not making a Yud-Tes Kislev farbrengen because the elders were gone. The Rebbe replies this is precisely why he must reach the youth and create “listening ears.” Modern upheavals have already shaken their beliefs, making them ready for Torah. The Rebbe also defends the Yerushalmi source for the significance of birthdays. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/016/006/6108

B”H We're challenging some communal norms today on Jewish Money Matters. Stay with me, because this conversation may be uncomfortable in the best possible way. My guest today is Rabbi Moshe Bane, president emeritus of the Orthodox Union. Rabbi Bane is also a retired senior partner at the international law firm of Ropes & Gray where he headed its department of Corporate Restructuring. Rabbi Bane has lectured and written extensively on issues relating to the American Jewish community, and was a co-founding editor of the journal, Klal Perspectives. In this episode, we talk about why the problem isn't always the strategy—it might be the objective. And of course we relate that to money. Rabbi Bane shares insights from his popular Yeshiva University course, Designing Your Jewish Life, including the pursuit of wealth versus the pursuit of lifestyle, the “glory of failure,” and the money conversations husbands and wives need to be having. This is one insightful episode. Here's Rabbi Moshe Bane. The post 459: Designing Your Jewish Life with Rabbi Moshe Bane appeared first on Yael Trusch.

In this inspiring episode, host Shai Davidai sits down with Rabbi Moshe Mayerfeld, rabbi, educator, and co-founder of Kii NYC. Rabbi Mayerfeld shares his remarkable journey from a small town in New Jersey to Israel, the UK, and finally Manhattan, discussing his family's refugee roots, his early work with troubled youth, and his passion for building inclusive Jewish communities. The conversation explores themes of Jewish identity, the importance of community, and the difference between assimilation and integration. Rabbi Mayerfeld reflects on his experiences leading outreach in England and New York, the founding of Kii NYC, and the power of meeting people where they are. The episode is filled with heartfelt stories, wisdom about leadership and belonging, and a message of hope for the future of the Jewish people.Guest: Rabbi Moshe MayerfeldConsider DONATING to help us continue and expand our media efforts. If you cannot at this time, please share this video with someone who might benefit from it. We thank you for your support!https://gofund.me/30c00151c COMING SOON BUY MERCH!SUPPORT SHAI ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/shaidavidai/about?utm_source=campaign-search-results

Rabbi Efim Svirski on Let's Get Real with Coach Menachem, Sunday March 8, 2026 #262 When Hashem Feels Absent Free Will, Space, and the Possibility of a Real Relationship

In this episode we watch Jesus do what Luther says Christ always does: use the law to uncover real sin, then speak a promise that creates faith, revealing himself as the great “I am” who gives living water as pure grace. As the Samaritan woman leaves her jar behind and confesses him Savior of the world, we see that true worship isn't about the right mountain but about the Spirit delivering Christ through his Word—salvation from the Jews, and for the nations.GOSPEL John 9:1-411 As he walked along, he saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned; he was born blind so that God's works might be revealed in him. 4 We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world." 6 When he had said this, he spat on the ground and made mud with the saliva and spread the mud on the man's eyes, 7 saying to him, "Go, wash in the pool of Siloam" (which means Sent). Then he went and washed and came back able to see. 8 The neighbors and those who had seen him before as a beggar began to ask, "Is this not the man who used to sit and beg?" 9 Some were saying, "It is he." Others were saying, "No, but it is someone like him." He kept saying, "I am the man." 10 But they kept asking him, "Then how were your eyes opened?" 11 He answered, "The man called Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and said to me, 'Go to Siloam and wash.' Then I went and washed and received my sight." 12 They said to him, "Where is he?" He said, "I do not know."13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. 14 Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. 15 Then the Pharisees also began to ask him how he had received his sight. He said to them, "He put mud on my eyes. Then I washed, and now I see." 16 Some of the Pharisees said, "This man is not from God, for he does not observe the sabbath." But others said, "How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?" And they were divided. 17 So they said again to the blind man, "What do you say about him? It was your eyes he opened." He said, "He is a prophet."18 The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight 19 and asked them, "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?" 20 His parents answered, "We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; 21 but we do not know how it is that now he sees, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age. He will speak for himself." 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews; for the Jews had already agreed that anyone who confessed Jesus to be the Messiah would be put out of the synagogue. 23 Therefore his parents said, "He is of age; ask him."24 So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and they said to him, "Give glory to God! We know that this man is a sinner." 25 He answered, "I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see." 26 They said to him, "What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" 27 He answered them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?" 28 Then they reviled him, saying, "You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. Support the showInterested in sponsoring an episode of Scripture First?Email Sarah at sarah@lhos.org or visit our donation page: lutherhouseofstudy.org/donate

These classes teach the day's section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matthew 26:14-2514 Then one of the twelve, whose name was Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15 and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him over to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. 16 And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. 17 Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” 18 He said, “Go into the city to a certain man and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand. I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.'” 19 And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover. 20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the twelve. 21 And as they were eating, he said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” 22 And they were very sorrowful and began to say to him one after another, “Is it I, Lord?” 23 He answered, “He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me will betray me. 24 The Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.” 25 Judas, who would betray him, answered, “Is it I, Rabbi?” He said to him, “You have said so.”

These classes teach the day's section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

Rabbi Marc Schneier and host Andrew Cuomo discuss the exponential rise of anti-semitism and the shifting political landscape regarding support for Israel. The Rabbi argues that anti-Zionism is indistinguishable from anti-semitism, warning that inflammatory rhetoric and labels like "genocide" or "apartheid" directly incite physical violence against Jewish citizens. He highlights a widening rift within the Democratic Party, suggesting that Jewish voters may soon find their liberal leanings at odds with the party's mainstream stance on Israeli security. Despite these modern threats, Schneier concludes with a message of resilience, asserting that the sovereignty of the State of Israel ensures the Jewish people are no longer the defenseless victims they were throughout centuries of historical persecution. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Menachos 57(56) in Menachos by Rabbi Moshe Brown

8 March 2026 | This week David Gockley continues our Mark sermon series in Mark 11:12-25, preaching on Jesus cursing the fig tree as well as the cleansing of the temple. He speaks on the revolution that the disciples were expecting, and how Christ's revolution differed. Jesus Curses the Fig Tree 12 On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. 13 And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it. Jesus Cleanses the Temple 15 And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons. 16 And he would not allow anyone to carry anything through the temple. 17 And he was teaching them and saying to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations'? But you have made it a den of robbers.” 18 And the chief priests and the scribes heard it and were seeking a way to destroy him, for they feared him, because all the crowd was astonished at his teaching. 19 And when evening came they[a] went out of the city. The Lesson from the Withered Fig Tree 20 As they passed by in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered away to its roots. 21 And Peter remembered and said to him, “Rabbi, look! The fig tree that you cursed has withered.” 22 And Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God. 23 Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. 24 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received[b] it, and it will be yours. 25 And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”[c]

siman 365:5-8 in Chelek Daled- Hilchos Hotza'ah V'hachnasah b'shabbos by Rabbi Tzvi Thaler

Rashi's commentary is an indispensable part of a person's daily studies. His explanation of Chumash, the first five books of the Torah, clarifies the "simple" meaning of the text so that a bright child of five could understand it. At the same time, it is the crucial foundation of some of the most profound legal analysis and mystical discourses that came after it.

Michael Lynton and Joshua Steiner discuss their new book, From Mistakes to Meaning: Owning Your Past So It Doesn't Own You (https://www.simonandschuster.com/book...)

Moses has an encounter this week that he never speaks of again. But we can't seem to stop quoting it. What happened, and what can we learn from Moses' secret?

There's a biblical narrative that mirrors today's war in Iran and cannot be ignored. The Jewish holiday of Purim commemorates the Bible story of Queen Esther of 2,300 years ago, when the young Jewish woman confronts the Persian King Xerxes about the plot to kill all the Jews hatched by his high official Haman. The king then allows the Jews to protect themselves against their aggressors, which becomes a bloody conflict.   Today, many Jewish leaders are noting the parallels in Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who frequently touted "Death to Israel" and was killed just days before Purim began on March 2. On this episode of the Lighthouse Faith podcast, Rabbi Josh Joseph, Executive Vice President and COO of The Orthodox Union, discusses how Purim serves as a continual reminder for the Jewish people to remain diligent in their faith and identity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

These classes teach the day's section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

John 4:5-42   Jesus came to a Samaritan city called Sychar, near the plot of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. Jacob's well was there, and Jesus, tired out by his journey, was sitting by the well. It was about noon. A Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” (His disciples had gone to the city to buy food.) The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” (Jews do not share things in common with Samaritans.) Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,' you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you have no bucket, and the well is deep. Where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us the well, and with his sons and his flocks drank from it?” Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but those who drink of the water that I will give them will never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I may never be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water.” Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come back.” The woman answered him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband'; for you have had five husbands, and the one you have now is not your husband. What you have said is true!” The woman said to him, “Sir, I see that you are a prophet. Our ancestors worshiped on this mountain, but you say that the place where people must worship is in Jerusalem.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father seeks such as these to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When he comes, he will proclaim all things to us.” Jesus said to her, “I am he, the one who is speaking to you.” Just then his disciples came. They were astonished that he was speaking with a woman, but no one said, “What do you want?” or, “Why are you speaking with her?” Then the woman left her water jar and went back to the city. She said to the people, “Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done! He cannot be the Messiah, can he?” They left the city and were on their way to him. Meanwhile the disciples were urging him, “Rabbi, eat something.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” So the disciples said to one another, “Surely no one has brought him something to eat?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to complete his work. Do you not say, ‘Four months more, then comes the harvest'? But I tell you, look around you, and see how the fields are ripe for harvesting. The reaper is already receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.' I sent you to reap that for which you did not labor. Others have labored, and you have entered into their labor.” Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman's testimony, “He told me everything I have ever done.” So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. And many more believed because of his word. They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is truly the Savior of the world.”

Text Based

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Ki Tisa, focusing on the profound lessons from the half-Shekel census at the beginning and the dangers of the Golden Calf sin that follows. He explains why a direct headcount is forbidden (leading to plague) and instead the half-shekel donation is counted: it preserves individuality (each person is unique and irreplaceable) while emphasizing communal unity—counting coins unites people as one collective, avoiding isolated judgment. The half-shekel symbolizes incompleteness alone; only when combined with others does one become "whole," reflecting the Jewish ideal of being part of a kehillah (congregation) rather than isolated.Rabbi Wolbe stresses the power of community: prayers in plural (e.g., "heal us," "bless us"), synagogues as Batei Knesset (places of gathering) for collective strength, and the peril of separation (e.g., avoiding one's local shul is spiritually damaging). He connects this to Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur judgment—being part of the tzibbur (public) brings mercy, as group requests are harder to deny. The episode warns against modern isolation (e.g., influencers becoming detached) and draws parallels to antisemitism: Jews must never hide identity but stand proud and united, as in Egypt where preserving names, language, and customs brought salvation. Unity makes us unbreakable—like bundled straws—while isolation invites downfall, especially when comfort leads to complacency (as with Haman or the Golden Calf)._____________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 March 6, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 8, 2026_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #KiTisa, #HalfShekel, #JewishUnity, #Community, #AhavatYisrael, #GoldenCalf, #ParshaReview, #JewishIdentity, #StandProud, #Antisemitism, #OneNationOneSoul ★ Support this podcast ★

Click here to WATCH LIVE STREAM Worship Service on our Youtube Channel. That You May Believe, Part 6 John 3:1-21 John 3:1-21 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” 3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.” 4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” 9 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. 16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 17 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. 19 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” God graciously reveals our need. John 3:1-2 Now there was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him.” John 3:3 Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”   John 3:4-6 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Luke 18:26-27 Those who heard it said, “Then who can be saved?” 27 But he said, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”   Matthew 5:20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.   John 3:7-8 Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.' 8 The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”   Ezekiel 36:25-28 I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. 26 And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. 28 You shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers, and you shall be my people, and I will be your God.   1 Peter 1:23 since you have been born again, not of perishable seed but of imperishable, through the living and abiding word of God Titus 3:4-5 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared, 5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit   God graciously enables our belief. John 3:9-13 Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?” 10 Jesus answered him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and yet you do not understand these things? 11 Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen, but you do not receive our testimony. 12 If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except he who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. 1 Corinthians 2:14 The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. 1 John 5:20 And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. John 3:14-15 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15 that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. Numbers 21:6-9 Then the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many people of Israel died. 7 And the people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you. Pray to the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8 And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent and set it on a pole, and everyone who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” 9 So Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. And if a serpent bit anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.   Isaiah 45:22 Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.   1 Corinthians 1:18 For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. John 17:3 And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. God graciously transforms our lives. John 3:17-18 For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. 18 Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God. John 3:19-21 And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. 20 For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed. 21 But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.” Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2 For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death. 3 For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” Respond | Connect | Next Steps The post John: That You May Believe appeared first on Charleston Baptist Church.

We warmly welcome you to join Pastor Barry Blankenship in this Sunday morning message!

You Must Be Born Again (Sermon Series on John) - Sunday, 8th March 2026[Episode 12 - John Chapter 3 KJV]1. We are introduced to Nicodemus and his perception of Jesus.John 3:1-2 There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.2. You must be born again.John 3:3  Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.3. What do you mean?John 3:4  Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?4. It's not a reformation it's a total transformation.John 3:5-8  Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.5. My poor mind is blown.John 3:9  Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?6 It's all by faith Nicodemus.John 3:10-15  Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.

Rabbi Joseph Potasnik and Reverend A.R. Bernard discuss the pressing need for legislative protection of religious institutions amid a modern decline in public reverence. Featuring guest Hindi Pukpko from the UJA-Federation, the conversation centers on a proposed New York City bill designed to establish buffer zones around houses of worship and schools to prevent the intimidation of congregants by aggressive protesters. The participants argue that while the right to protest is a sacred American value, it should not supersede the fundamental right to feel safe within one's spiritual sanctuary or educational environment. Beyond policy, the hosts reflect on the interfaith solidarity required to combat rising social vitriol and the vital role of family and moral education in restoring a lost sense of communal respect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jewish Faith & Jewish Facts with Rabbi Steven Garten. Aired: March 08, 2026 on CHRI Radio 99.1FM in Ottawa, Canada. For questions, email Rabbi Garten at rabbishg@templeisraelottawa.com For more CHRI shows, visit chri.ca

These classes teach the day's section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

vayakhel.pekudei

Iconic performer dies on stage during his 70th birthday celebration. Opie gets an official chef jacket which drives Carl Ruiz nuts. Also, Carl interrogates Luis on his bachelor party and upcoming marriage. How Carl met his wife! Freaking out a Rabbi! because of DJ Whoo Kid!

Rabbi Pinchas Allouche, head Rabbi at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Scottsdale, and the host of the Rabbi Allouche podcast, joins Seth for the full hour to talk about this week's Torah portion, known as Ki Tisa, and themes of validation, purpose, and community. They also dive into the story of the Jewish people's desire to be seen and known, and how this relates to the concept of elevating others. Rabbi Allouche shares insights from the story of Moses and his census of the Hebrew people, where God commanded Moses to "elevate" rather than "count" the people. Rabbi Allouche also clarifies the term "Zionism" and the history of the Chabad movement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

These classes teach the day's section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

-- Opening song - "Let There Be Love" by Noah Aronson; performed by Temple Israel Cantorial Soloist Happie Hoffman Find sermons, music, conversations between clergy and special guests, and select Temple Israel University (TIU) classes – easily accessible to you through our podcast, Torah to the People. Learn more about Temple Israel-Memphis at timemphis.org.

Rabbi-Cantor Hilary Chorney offers up short bursts of meditation infused with imagery, wisdom, and the rhythms of our Jewish calendar, including selected verses from the Torah. Many of these meditations are performed in sitting positions; some standing. Simply find yourself a comfortable space and let Rabbi-Cantor Chorney's voice and direction guide you into a world of serenity and tranquility.

If you have ever been married, or if you have ever walked an adult child down the aisle, think back to the energy, the electricity, the excitement of the wedding day. All that love in one sacred place. Pure magic.There was a young, bright, beautiful Israeli couple looking forward to their wedding day. The bride and the groom were getting married in the backyard of the bride's parents. Joyful and magical. Except for two small details.The date of their wedding was Thursday, June 12, 2025. The couple was getting married that night. Israel's war with Iran, what would become known as the 12-day war, would begin at dawn on Friday, June 13. And the groom is a fighter pilot for the IDF. He flies F16s. The groom knew the war was coming imminently. He knew that he would be flying an F16 into Iran. He was scheduled to be the first pilot of the first F16 into Iran. Which would have required him to be at the base at the time he was to be under the chuppah. So he asked the IDF if he could be the second pilot into Iran. The IDF said yes. That allowed him to stand under the chuppah with his bride. Before the chuppah, he had borrowed his grandmother's car. It was an hour's drive from where he would spend his wedding night to his army base. The car was packed and ready to go. The bride and groom got married. On their wedding night, a loud and scary siren reverberated throughout Israel that was the nation's signal that war with Iran was at hand; and that was the groom's signal that his wedding was over, it was time to take his grandmother's car to the base, to get into an F16, and to fly into Iran. Within mere hours of smashing the glass under their chuppah and kissing his bride, the newly minted husband was in the F16 flying into Iran. During the 12-day war, he would fly an F16 into Iran, and back to Israel, day after day. Roll the film forward. The couple, now newlyweds, moved to Cambridge. She is now a first-year business school student at Sloane, MIT's business school. And liking it. He is working for an Israeli start-up. And liking it. They are together, happy, happy. And then January, and the build up to the war with Iran, again. To be an Israeli fighter pilot, one needs to fly their F16 at least once a week. He was no longer certified to be a pilot, because it had been several months since he had last flown. He could have stayed in Cambridge. He could have stayed with his still newlywed wife. But he knew that if he did not fly the F16 into Iran, someone else would have to do it. He felt a duty to his country. He felt a duty to his people. He felt a duty to his fellow fighter pilots. So, again, he leaves his new bride, in mid-January he goes back to Israel, he gets back in his F16s, he gets recredentialed as a seasoned and qualified fighter pilot, and he has been flying mission after mission into Iran this past week. Meanwhile, she is living by herself, again, in Cambridge.Interrupted wedding night. Interrupted newlywed year. It just is.Why am I telling you all this? When the war broke out, I had thought that American Jews, certainly the ones I know and love at Temple Emanuel, would be uniformly and unambivalently in support of this war. Of course war is hell. Of course we prefer peace. Of course we pray for peace. Of course war unleashes unpredictable and uncontrollable outcomes, so many of which are destructive. And yet, the Islamic Republic of Iran is, and has always been since its very inception, openly and unapologetically genocidal. Its motto “Death to America” is genocidal. Its motto “Death to Israel” is genocidal. What it did in Argentina in the 90s, killing innocent Jews twice, is genocidal. What it did through its proxy Hamas on October 7 is genocidal. The clock in Tehran promising the end of Israel by the year 2040 is genocidal. Given all this, I had expected uncomplicated support of American Jews for this war. Boy, was I wrong.

While [Jesus] was still speaking, Judas came, one of the twelve, and with him a great crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests and the elders of the people. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, “The one I will kiss is the Man; seize Him.” And he came up to Jesus at once and said, “Greetings, Rabbi!” And he kissed Him. Jesus said to him, “Friend, do what you came to do.” (Matthew 26:47-50a)

Kelly is joined by Rabbi Yaakov Shapiro to discuss the many differences between Judaism and Zionism. Rabbi Shapiro's response to many quotes from Vladimir Jobotinsky and commentary regarding the Carrie Prejean Boller fiasco at the state department rel...

These classes teach the day's section of the weekly Torah portion. The lesson is taught using the original Hebrew text with the indispensable commentary of Rashi—both translated and elucidated so that anyone can follow along.

Text Based

Many men struggle silently with grief, loneliness, identity loss, and moral injury. Social expectations often teach men to stay strong, stay productive, and stay quiet about pain.In this episode of Hope Illuminated, I speak with meaning-centered psychotherapist and logotherapist Baruch HaLevi (“Dr. B”) about how men's groups help men transform suffering into purpose, connection, and resilience.Drawing from Viktor Frankl's logotherapy, lived experience with suicide loss, and years of guiding men's peer groups, Dr. B explains how meaning helps men move through life's darkest chapters. For more information on this episode go to https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/hope-illuminated-podcast/161

Sermon by Rabbi Rebecca Rosenthal, "Either Friendship or Death" March 6, 2026

For my last conversation with Sam see here: https://youtu.be/Q06L7Uxq4PY?si=su6O18LIw3fF_JKfRabbi Sam Stern returns to The Fifth Question for a wide-ranging conversation on Reform Judaism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, and the future of American Jewish institutions. We start with Stern's recent op-ed—“Reform Judaism chose Zionism. That was not a mistake.”—and trace the Reform movement's historical arc from the 1885 Pittsburgh Platform to the 1937 Columbus Platform, and into today's post–October 7 landscape. Along the way, we tackle one of the central fault lines shaping liberal Jewish life right now: the tension between universalism vs. Jewish peoplehood/particularism, and what happens when Jewish identity is reduced to general ethics or political activism.This episode also digs into the question so many young Jews have inherited: why is Israel always framed as “complicated”? Stern argues that “nuance poisoning” and institutional risk-aversion have pushed Jewish education to start with critique instead of values—leaving students without the language, confidence, or backbone to stand up for themselves and for the Jewish community. We also discuss the role of Jewish institutions, the need to set an Overton window for communal boundaries, and whether the Reform movement can remain a big tent with real guardrails—including how it speaks (or fails to speak) to Sephardic/Mizrahi realities and political diversity in the American Jewish community.Topics & keywords: Reform Judaism and Zionism, Reform movement platforms, anti-Zionism, Jewish peoplehood, universalism vs particularism, Jewish institutional leadership, Jewish Overton window, Jewish education and Israel, campus antisemitism, post–October 7 American Jewish life, HUC, Reconstructionist movement, Hillel vs Chabad, Sephardic and Mizrahi American Jews.Chapters (video time):0:00 Intro + the op-ed: “Reform Judaism chose Zionism”0:23 Reform history: Pittsburgh (1885) to Columbus (1937)3:26 Institutions failing Jews + the need for new leadership5:25 Cycles of idealism: liberal universalism vs Zionist “pessimism”8:02 Universalism vs particularism in Reform Judaism10:04 If Judaism = universal ethics, why be Jewish?13:22 Peoplehood as a target of modern “universalism”16:02 Being “outflanked” + boundaries in a big-tent movement17:28 Survey language: who counts as a Zionist?21:13 “Israel is complicated” and how education frames values26:55 “Nuance poisoning” and starting with critique vs meaning38:28 The Jewish Overton window and communal boundaries40:26 Reform institutions and partisan politics44:27 Refocusing on Jews, Jewish education, and peoplehood53:54 ClosingIf you have thoughts on this episode—especially whether Reform conference food is fully kosher—drop a comment. I'm genuinely curious.#reformjudaism #zionisme #jewishpeople #americanpolitics #israel #adl #jewishidentity Jewish History, Politics, Israel, Antisemitism, and Zionism - I cover it all.Politics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6QupJZ1HLY&list=PLQ3aQmFcYiCqqL-GSNw6NhSZWOvzaDdIKJewish History: https://youtu.be/1u4jHoZ8stM?si=0jZP4uhXlVEg2NOTAntisemitism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCgnEZ1d24Q&list=PLQ3aQmFcYiCqkU_aPIJGbE1xTKEbkh8euFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Israel #Rabbi #Jewish #WhatisZionism #DoJews?

Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Numbers 34–36; Mark 11 Click HERE to give! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on the Daily Radio Bible, a daily Bible‑in‑a‑year podcast with 20‑minute Scripture readings, Christ‑centered devotion, and guided prayer.This daily Bible reading and devotional invites you to live as a citizen of Jesus' kingdom, reconciled, renewed, and deeply loved. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to the Daily Radio Bible! On this March 4th, 2024 episode, host and Bible Reading Coach Hunter invites us on day 63 of our journey through the scriptures. Today's exploration takes us through Numbers 34–36, where God lays out the boundaries for the Promised Land, assigns cities of refuge, and addresses the inheritance of land among the tribes of Israel. Then, we turn to Mark 11 and witness Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, his confrontation in the temple, the mysterious withering of the fig tree, and a powerful lesson on faith and forgiveness. Along the way, Hunter offers thoughtful reflection on what it means to participate with God—to bear spiritual fruit, even when it seems unreasonable or impossible. The episode closes with prayer, encouragement to invest in your soul, and heartfelt thanks to the faithful community making this daily journey possible. Join in for scripture, prayer, and a reminder that, above all, you are loved. TODAY'S DEVOTION: Jesus speaks to the tree and Jesus speaks to his disciples. If you caught me speaking to a tree, you might think that's strange, and you would be right—it is. And yet, Mark tells us the disciples heard him say it. There was something lingering in that moment, something that carried over into the next day when the disciples saw the tree withered from the roots. They had to bring it to Jesus' attention. "Rabbi, look, the tree, it's withered." Jesus then turns to his disciples and says, "Have faith in God." There is a mysterious connection in this story between Jesus' words to the tree and his words to his friends. Why does he curse the tree, especially since Mark tells us it wasn't the season for figs? It's a mystery. Yet the tree, which had no fruit, failed to be what it was created to be. The Creator comes, looking for fruit—even out of season. Is it the tree's fault, or is there a deeper lesson here? We see that the tree was expected to participate with the Creator, to respond to him, to be ready to bear fruit when he came looking—even if it seemed unreasonable. Likewise, to the disciples, Jesus says: "Have faith in God." The Creator walks with his creation and asks us to cooperate, to be and do what we were made for. Does it seem impossible to bring forth fruit, to move mountains, to forgive someone who has hurt us deeply? Not if the Creator asks it of you. Not if the one who has made you and called you his own asks you to walk in this way. The life of a disciple is a life of participation with God. It is not about magic tricks or parlor games of faith, but about saying yes to God's invitation to be and do what he asks. When you pray, Jesus says, forgive. That's how participation works. Because you are forgiven, loved, and made new, you are invited to participate in his life, to forgive as you have been forgiven, to love as you have been loved, to be fruitful in season and out of season. This life with God may look strange to the world, but it is so much bigger, freer, and filled with more life than we can imagine. That's a prayer I hold for my own soul, for my family—for my wife, my daughters, my son. And it's a prayer I have for you. May we become who the Creator has made us to be. May we say yes to his call, participate in his life, and find ourselves truly alive. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL