Podcasts about Torah

In Pirkei Avot, one can find the Hebrew teaching to “carry the burden with your friend.” In today's episode, Torah Studio leaders Lexi Kohanski and Liana Wertman join the Judaism Unbound podcast to discuss their latest offerings in keeping with this lesson, including a class on personal torah and stewardship called Trans Torah for Our Terrible Times. They also share ideas regarding what the significance of torah/Torah can mean for communal and creative learning, in a moment that demands a new level of spiritual grit and gentleness.------------------------------Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!

In this teaching, Rabbi Schneider unpacks the deeper meaning behind the commandment to not take God's name in vain and also explores the life-changing principle of the Sabbath. Discover how honoring God's name and His day of rest can bring spiritual refreshment and alignment to your life. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES - https://djj.show/r7q   Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com

Revealing the secrets of the mysterious parah adumah.

In this deep and soulful journey through Parshat Chukas, Rabbi Yisroel Bernath unpacks one of the most perplexing and powerful moments in the Torah: the copper snake on a pole.Why did G-d command Moses to use the very symbol of suffering, the snake, as a healing instrument? What does it mean that people had to look up at the snake to be cured?Through timeless Jewish wisdom, vulnerable personal insight, and psychological depth, Rabbi Bernath explores the mystery of pain, the challenge of resilience, and the spiritual art of transforming darkness into light. You'll walk away with a new perspective on your own struggles and perhaps, a new path to healing.Key Takeaways:Transformation, Not Avoidance: True healing doesn't come from avoiding our pain, but from facing it with courage and elevating it with meaning.The Snake Above vs. the Snake Below: The same experience can be seen from a higher or lower perspective. One brings despair; the other, depth.The Poison Is the Cure: Just like antivenom is made from venom, your healing may emerge from the very thing that once hurt you.Don't Run, Look Up: When we stop running from the “snakes” in our lives and look upward—to G-d, to our higher selves—we discover the blessing buried in the bite.Every Crisis Holds a Blessing: Like Jacob wrestling the angel, we can say to our struggle: “I will not let you go until you bless me.” That's Jewish resilience.You Are Sacred Even in Pain: Sometimes the deepest truth is not an answer to your question, but the awareness that your soul is Divine, loved, and never alone.#healing #Judaism #Jewish #coppersnake #healingthroughpain #TorahPortion #TorahLessons #Torah #torahpsychology #JewishResiliance #struggle #Redemption #divinepurpose #traumatotransformation #trauma #God #snake #parshatchukat #spritualgrowth Support US and Win BIG www.ndgraffle.comSupport the showGot your own question for Rabbi Bernath? He can be reached at rabbi@jewishndg.com or http://www.theloverabbi.comSingle? You can make a profile on www.JMontreal.com and Rabbi Bernath will help you find that special someone.Donate and support Rabbi Bernath's work http://www.jewishndg.com/donateFollow Rabbi Bernath's YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/ybernathAccess Rabbi Bernath's Articles on Relationships https://medium.com/@loverabbi

In this teaching, Rabbi Schneider reveals how the first of the laws in the Torah show that God is personal and knows His people by name. This message challenges us to move beyond vague belief and truly submit to the one true God who is right here in the center of our existence. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES -  https://djj.show/7mj   Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com

Shmuel Goldman grew up in a Washington, DC, suburb, part of a traditional, if not Torah observant, family. When Shmuel was in sixth grade, the family came to Israel for a year of fun and adventure. And that's exactly what it was … for everyone else in the family. But for Shmuel, it was the beginning of a new worldview. He knew he'd come back to Israel someday. The only question was when, and how. Fast-forward 40-plus years, and there was Goel, with his wife Gilla waiting in line to order coffee at Makom Yaffe leCafe, an adorable and inspiring coffee spot in the northern part of Israel. As they approached the cashier to place their order, Goel couldn't believe it. “Wait, is this guy American?!” So what happened? Goel sat with Shmuel at Makom Yaffe LeCafe to talk all about it.

Today's daf is sponsored by Judy Schwartz "in memory of my very special mother Shirley K. Tydor (Sara Raizel bat Mordechai Yitzchak and Freidasima) on my birthday. A birthday is a time to make the world a better place: do a cheshbon nefesh (soul searching), give tzedaka, and thank one's mother for what she went through. And so I do, with love." Today's daf is sponsored by Batsheva & Daniel Pava on the second yahrzeit of Batsheva's father, Reb Shlomo ben Yehuda Aryeh Vegh, z"l. "My father was an orphaned child survivor of Auschwitz. He lived to see 3 generations of descendants, including grandchildren and great grandchildren serving in Tzahal and Sherut Leumi.  Every morning, my father would get up at 5 am and learn gemara. He would also complete the entire Sefer Tehillim each week. My Dad is, and will forever be, my hero."   Today's daf is sponsored by the Shuster family in memory of Dr. Sandra Shimoff, the mother of Randi Shuster. "Her devotion to the study of Torah and Shas will always be remembered by her family and all those who knew her."   Today's daf is sponsored by Rabbi Art Gould in gratitude to HaShem on the occasion of my engagement to Laini Millar Melnick. "I never thought I would be this happy again in my lifetime. I stood under the chuppa once and it worked out pretty well; I can't wait to stand under the chuppa again."   Today's daf is sponsored by Debbie Pershan for the 17th yahrzeit of her mother, Tziril bat Moshe Pinchus. Why is it forbidden to sell large cattle to a non-Jew? After deliberations, they conclude that this is a decree lest the Jew rent it out or lend it, or concern of a "test ride" that may be done as Shabbat begins. Rav Ada permitted selling through a broker because these concerns don't apply in that case. Rav Huna sold a cow to a non-Jew and claimed that perhaps he bought it for slaughter. Rav Chisda challenged him - why don't we worry about the matters mentioned previously? After deliberation, Rav Ashi defines in what situations it is permitted/forbidden. Rabba sold a donkey to a Jew who was suspected of selling to non-Jews. Abaye challenged him and convinced Rabba that he had made a mistake. Within Abaye's challenge, he quoted a baraita that forbids a Jew from selling weapons to a non-Jew. Rav Dimi expanded this prohibition to selling weapons to Jewish bandits/robbers. Can one sell defensive items to non-Jews? This is a subject of debate. 

Parshas Chukas: Our Story, Continued Our Parsha begins with the mysterious laws of the Parah Adumah and journeys through profound moments of loss, leadership, and legacy. From the death of Miriam to Moshe's request for safe passage through Edom, the Torah weaves a story not just of history—but of soul.  This is our story. One of pain and promise, of exile and return. And when we carry each other, even from afar, we step into something eternal.

When the nation needed water, they found it in a most unexpected place: Moshe struck a rock and it began to spew forth enough water for the entire nation. Why was there water inside the rock? Why when Jacob needed water, he removed the rock blockading it? Why didn't he find water inside the rock too? Water and rocks are often connected, but sometimes the water is found beyond the rock and other times the water is embedded inside the flinty stone. This distinction reveals the two different ways to contend with adversity. When we examine the opening subject of our Parsha, the strange protocol of the red heifer, we see a pattern of the multiple methods of transformation.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/08/25 ; 04/09/25 ; 05/05/25 ; 05/06/25 Should the Yud of the Tefillin Shel Yad Be Touching the Bayit—And How Critical Is Its Placement? The Tefillin Shel Yad is wrapped around the arm and tied with a knot shaped like the Hebrew letter Yud, positioned near the Bayit (box). This Yud is not merely decorative; it carries both Halachic and Kabbalistic importance. But how close must it be to the box? Does its position affect the validity of the Misva? And what happens if it slips out of place during prayer? What Is the Yud on the Tefillin Shel Yad? The Torah uses the phrase "Totafot"—frontlets—when referring to Tefillin. The Halacha teaches that this word alludes to four Parashiot (Torah passages) placed in the Shel Rosh, but also connects to the name of Hashem. The Name of Hashem, as reflected in the Tefillin, appears through the knot of the Shel Yad shaped like a Yud, the shape of the knot of the Shel Rosh (a Dalet), and the Shin embossed on the Shel Rosh. Together, these letters spell out "Shaddai," one of the sacred Names of Hashem. According to Kabbala, this structure must be complete and properly aligned, or it interrupts the spiritual flow the Tefillin are meant to draw. But aside from the Kabbalistic implications, there are real Halachic consequences if the Yud is not properly positioned. Must the Yud Be Touching the Bayit? Yes. The Yud must rest against the Bayit, and the knot should be snug and stable. The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 27:2) rules that the Yud must not be separated from the box, even by a small space. The Yud is part of the Halachic identity of the Tefillin. According to the Hida (Birkei Yosef), if the Yud is not close to the Bayit—if it slips down the strap or hangs loosely—the Tefillin may be considered Pasul (invalid), especially during the Beracha. To fulfill the Misva properly, one must ensure at the time of the Beracha and binding that the Yud is tight and resting directly against the base of the box. Does It Invalidate the Tefillin If the Yud Moves During Tefila? If the Yud is touching the Bayit when the Beracha is recited and the Tefillin are put on, but it later shifts slightly during prayer, this does not invalidate the Misva. The critical moment is the initial placement and blessing. However, if a person notices that the Yud has slipped or become completely separated during prayer, it is appropriate to adjust it immediately and discreetly. There's no need to repeat the Beracha unless it was clearly never positioned properly to begin with. In fact, it is a good practice to check the Yud each morning before putting on the Tefillin. Make sure the loop is tight and that the knot is secure. If the knot is loose or keeps sliding, it may need to be retied by someone knowledgeable in Tefillin construction. Can the Yud Be Placed Under or Behind the Bayit? The Yud should rest alongside the Bayit, not behind it and not underneath. If it is placed underneath the base—wedged between the box and the arm—it may cause the Bayit to sit at an angle, or lift it slightly, which is improper. The Bayit must sit flat against the bicep, not propped up or tilted. The Yud should hug the corner of the Bayit—visible and aligned, not tucked away or hidden. Some people mistakenly wrap the strap in a way that presses the Yud underneath or squeezes it behind the box. This not only distorts the alignment, but also reduces the visibility and symbolic meaning of the Yud. What If the Yud Is Missing or Not Formed Properly? If the Yud is missing altogether—or if the strap is tied in a way that does not resemble the letter Yud—then the Tefillin Shel Yad is invalid. The form of the knot must clearly resemble a Yud. This is why it's important that the knot is tied by a qualified sofer or expert, and not altered by someone unfamiliar with the laws. Even well-meaning adjustments can result in a shape that does not fulfill the Halachic requirement. Also, over time, straps wear out. The corner may fray or stretch, and the Yud shape may become unclear. A person should periodically inspect the Tefillin or bring them to a sofer for checking. How Tight Should the Knot Be? The strap and knot should be tight enough to keep the Yud securely in place, but not so tight that it pulls or deforms the shape of the Bayit. There is a balance between tightness and comfort. One should feel the firmness, but also be able to move the arm normally. Excessive tightness is unnecessary—and even harmful to the Tefillin and to circulation. Summary - The Yud must be placed directly next to the Bayit of the Tefillin Shel Yad. - This position is Halachically required, not just symbolic or aesthetic. - If the Yud slips after the Beracha, the Misva remains valid, but it should be adjusted. - The Yud should be visible and rest on the side of the Bayit, not under or behind it. - A missing or malformed Yud invalidates the Tefillin Shel Yad. - The strap should be tight enough to hold the Yud in place, but not overly tight.

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his study of Orchos Tzadikim (Ways of the Righteous), concluding the chapter on laziness. Drawing from King Solomon's wisdom in Proverbs, Rabbi Wolbe highlights the pitfalls of laziness, particularly in failing to seek or maintain friendships with wise and God-fearing individuals, which he deems the epitome of laziness. He uses the metaphor of the ant, which tirelessly gathers over a thousand kernels of food it doesn't need, to contrast with the lazy person's endless excuses, such as fearing "lions in the streets" to avoid Torah study or good deeds. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes the need for balance, noting that while excessive laziness is detrimental, strategic laziness—such as avoiding evil pursuits or working on Shabbos—can be virtuous. He encourages listeners to be eager in pursuing Torah, mitzvot, and positive influences, while being "lazy" about negative actions like slander, envy, or frequenting inappropriate places. Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal strategy inspired by his grandfather, who used his love for Mussar study to motivate Talmud study, illustrating how one can leverage enthusiasm for enjoyable tasks to accomplish less appealing ones. He recounts a story of agreeing to pick up a friend at 1:30 a.m., viewing it as a divine test of willingness to act, even when the task was ultimately unnecessary. The episode concludes with a call to overcome laziness by proactively pursuing good deeds and Torah study, using modern tools like YouTube and podcasts to access Torah effortlessly, and strategically applying laziness to avoid harmful influences, thereby aligning with God's will.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 3, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on July 3, 2025_____________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!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Laziness, #Torah, #Productivity, #Neglect, #Excuses, #Growth, #Balance, #Alacrity, #Diligence ★ Support this podcast ★

Some Jews anguish over antisemitism and its root causes. This host does not care about what makes Jew-loathers tick. We've been given a mandate to be the best, heal the world, be holy. Torah acceptance means, "Na'aseh v'nishma," "We will do, and we will listen." 'Nuff said, naysayers be damned... Pull Up a Chair 03JULY2025 - PODCAST

Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is set to meet President Donald Trump at the White House next Monday; Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced plans to open a new embassy in Estonia & Edan Alexander met President Trump and the First Lady at the White House; Plus! A Torah though by Rabbi Yossi Madvig of Oswego, NY.Click that you heard about Hasod (gift boxes) from “a podcast” when you check out. https://www.hasodstore.com/shopsmallIsrael Daily News website: https://israeldailynews.orgIsrael Daily News Roundtable: https://www.patreon.com/shannafuldSupport our Wartime News Coverage: https://www.gofundme.com/f/independent-journalist-covering-israels-warLinks to all things IDN:⁠ https://linktr.ee/israeldailynews⁠Music: Hayati by Ariella Zeitlin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=je-XdcPXDek

Parashat Hukat tells the famous story of Meh Meriba – Moshe Rabbenu's sin of striking the rock to produce water after G-d had instructed him to speak to the rock. Hashem punished Moshe, decreeing that he would not have the privilege of entering the Land of Israel along with the rest of the nation. Numerous different approaches have been taken to explain the nature of Moshe Rabbenu's mistake, and to answer the question of how Moshe, the greatest prophet who ever lived, a man of such towering spiritual stature, could have disobeyed G-d's explicit command to speak to the rock. A particularly fascinating explanation is offered by the Hatam Sofer (Rav Moshe Sofer of Pressburg, 1762-1839), who notes a mysterious nuance in G-d's command to produce water by speaking to the rock. Hashem said to Moshe, "You shall speak to the rock and it shall give forth its water, and you shall bring water for them out of the rock…" (20:8). Surprisingly, Hashem here twice mentions the production of water: 1) "and it shall give forth its water"; 2) "and you shall bring water for them out of the rock." It seems that Moshe was to extract water from the rock in two different stages through his speech. The Hatam Sofer solves this mystery based on the conclusion of this verse: "Ve'hishkita Et Ha'eda U'be'iram" – "you shall give water to drink for the congregation and their animals." The rock was to produce two streams of water – one for the people, and one of their animals. The Hatam Sofer explains that throughout the forty years which Beneh Yisrael spent in the wilderness, they ate heavenly food – the manna – but drank ordinary water. This water was provided through supernatural means – a well which miraculously traveled with them, in the merit of Miriam, Moshe's righteous sister – but the water was ordinary water. The manna originated from the heavens, and was spiritual food, whereas the water itself was no different from regular water that the people were accustomed to drinking. But now, as Beneh Yisrael were entering the final stage of their sojourn through the wilderness, they were ready to be brought to an especially high spiritual level. To this end, Moshe was to speak special words of Torah and prayers to the rock so it would produce a special kind of water – spiritual water, the liquid equivalent of the manna, that would uplift the people to great heights. This explains why the Torah speaks of two kinds of water. Moshe's words were to cause the rock to pour forth a stream of spiritual water for the people, and a second stream of regular water for their animals. Moshe, however, was afraid of producing this special spiritual water for the people. He feared that if they would then sin after having ingested this water, this would be unforgivable. Once they would reach such lofty spiritual heights, any failure would be deemed an especially grave transgression, and they might, Heaven forbid, be severely punished. It was thus out of compassion that Moshe struck the rock instead of speaking to it. He exclaimed, "Listen, O rebellious ones – shall I bring water for you out of this rock?!" (20:10). He was, in essence, telling the people, "I know you will in the future be rebellious – I therefore cannot produce the spiritual water for you." He instead struck the rock and produced regular water, which both the people and their animals drank, as implied by the verse, "Va'tesht Ha'eda U'be'iram" ("The congregation and their animals drank" – 20:11). When the Torah tells of Hashem informing Moshe and Aharon of their punishment for disobeying, it refers to Hashem with the Name of "Havaya," which is associated with G-d's attribute of compassion. This indicates that G-d's anger was tempered by compassion – because Moshe acted as he did out of genuine love and concern for Beneh Yisrael. He did not, Heaven forbid, intend to disrespect G-d's authority by disregarding His command. Rather, he was overcome by sincere love for the people, and wanted to protect them. For a towering Sadik of Moshe Rabbenu's stature, this was considered a sin. For us, though, the story of Meh Meriba provides us with an example of unbridled Ahabat Yisrael – love for our fellow Jews. In this specific instance, Moshe's love for His people resulted in his doing something which G-d disapproved of. But we can only wish to have the same level of Ahabat Yisrael as Moshe Rabbenu. We are to follow this example of genuine, heartfelt concern for each and every one of our fellow Jews, to the point where we are willing to do whatever we can to help them.

התוכן כ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר כותב ברשימת המאסר שבעת ישבו שם "באתי לידי החלטה גמורה להיות עז ותקיף, בלי חת, לדבר בשפה ברה, ולא להתחשב כלל עם האַבסטאנאָווקע (המצב והסביבה) אשר יסובבוני". וכ"ז, אף שידע גודל הסכנה שהוא, וכל מוסדות התורה במדינה ההיא שעמד בראשם, נמצאים וכו'. וי"ל שההוראה להתנהגות כזאת היא ממ"ש בסיום פ' חוקת "ויאמר ה' אל משה אל תירא אותו [את עוג] כי בידך נתתי אותו ואת כל עמו וגו'": והק' בגמ' מדוע פחד משה מעוג יותר מסיחון (שניצח אותו וכו') ותי' "מתשובתו של אותו צדיק אתה יודע מה הי' בלבו, אמר שמא תעמוד לו זכות של אברהם אבינו שנאמר ויבא הפליט ויגד לאברם העברי ואמר רבי יוחנן זה עוג וכו'". וצ"ל מדוע השאיר משה את המורא מעוג "בלבו" ולא הודיע לבנ"י עד"ז? אלא שמשה ידע שאם בנ"י יראו אצלו, נשיא בישראל, ענין של פחד, ואפי' רק על פניו – הי' זה מחליש את בנ"י, וזה גופא הי' יכול להביא שעוג ינצח, ולכן שמר את זה "בלבו". וזוהי ההוראה לנשיא או מנהיג בישראל, שאפי' כשרואה קשיים וכו' אסור שזה יהי' ניכר במעשיו ודיבורו ואפי' לא על פניו! אלא שה' ראה את מה שבלבו והבטיח "אל תירא אותו". [המשך יבוא]משיחת י"ב תמוז ה'תשכ"ה ל"הנחה פרטית" או התרגום ללה"ק של השיחה: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=03-07-2025 Synopsis The Rebbe, my father-in-law, writes in his account of his imprisonment, “I came to a firm decision to be bold and strong, without fear, to speak clearly, not to take into account at all the circumstances and environment around me.” This was despite knowing the great danger he faced, and the danger not only to himself but to all the Torah institutions he led in that country etc. It can be said that he derived a lesson for such conduct from the end of parashas Chukas. The verse says, “Hashem said to Moshe, ‘Do not fear him [Og], for I have delivered him, his people, and his land into your hand….” The Gemara asks, why was Moshe was afraid of Og if he had already defeated Sichon etc.? And it answers, “from the answer given to that tzaddik [Moshe Rabbeinu], you know what was in his heart. He said, perhaps the merit of Avraham Avinu will stand for him, as it is written: ‘And the survivor came and told Avram,' and Rabbi Yochanan said: this refers to Og etc.” But if so, the question is, why did Moshe keep his fear of Og in his heart, and not inform the Jewish people about it? The answer is that Moshe knew that if the Jewish people saw any sign of fear in the Nasi of the Jewish people, even just on his face, it would weaken the Jewish people, and that itself could cause Og to be victorious. Therefore, he kept it “in his heart.” And this is the lesson for a Nasi or leader of the Jewish people: even when facing difficulties, etc., it must not be noticeable in his actions or speech, and not even on his face. Rather, Hashem saw what was in his heart and promised: “Do not fear him.” (To be continued.)Excerpt from sichah of 12 Tammuz 5725 For a transcript in English of the Sicha: https://thedailysicha.com/?date=03-07-2025

Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks' commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week. This audio on Parshat Chukat from Rabbi Sacks was recorded in 2019. Follow along with the audio here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/chukat/losing-miriam/ Read and download the written essay, and all translations. For intergenerational discussion on the weekly Parsha and Haftara, a new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/chukat/losing-miriam/ ___________________ For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.

A lesson from the red heifer about how faith is not something that is created or imposed on our lives, but is the ground that everything instinctively rests on. Also: being a channel for giving to others despite our own blockages, leaning into our engraved experience of faith, and the invitation in the unexplainable laws within the Torah.Based on a talk from the Lubavitcher Rebbe. Parshas Chukas, Chelek Alef.* * * * * * *To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at info@humanandholy.comTo support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.

In this episode, Rabbi Schneider covers three thought-provoking laws of the Torah: The ban on leaven during Passover, the sanctification of the firstborn, and the sharing of the Exodus story with our children. Join in to discover the deeper meaning of these Old Testament laws. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES - https://djj.show/9s9   Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com

Join Rabbi Joey Rosenfeld as he guides us through the world and major works of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, and Jewish philosophy, shedding light on the inner life of the soul. To learn more, visit InwardTorah.org

Our main purpose in this world is to be true servants of Hashem. We are here to continuously grow in our observance of Torah and mitzvot. Every step we take in that direction is incredibly valuable. Some steps may be easier than others, and some may feel like mountains—but we are never alone. Hashem is always with us, waiting to help us succeed. Hashem loves when we turn to Him and ask for help in serving Him better. He often responds in ways that clearly show He is listening and appreciating our efforts. Sometimes He even orchestrates events so that the answer comes quickly and inspires not only the person who asked, but many others who hear the story afterward. A man shared that he was listening to a shiur in which the rabbi told a story about a woman who accepted upon herself to cut her wig shorter to be more modest. As he listened, he quietly said to Hashem, "I wish my wife would cut her wig, too." Literally within a minute, his wife called him out of the blue and said she felt she wanted to cut her wig shorter. He was stunned by the immediate siyata dishmaya—Hashem had heard his simple request and responded right away. During the recent war in Eretz Yisrael, a woman wanted to take on a kabbalah to share in the suffering of her fellow Jews. She decided she would sleep with only one pillow instead of two. But she felt she needed some chizuk to carry it out. She called a chizuk hotline, and the class she randomly selected spoke about how during World War I, the Chafetz Chaim slept on a hard bench and used his hands as a pillow to empathize with fellow Jews in pain. She couldn't believe it—Hashem had guided her to exactly the message she needed in that moment. A man told of his son, who learns in a top yeshivah in Eretz Yisrael. The son had returned home briefly for a family wedding, but when war broke out, his flight back was canceled. Once flights resumed, the travel agent said it would take at least a week—possibly longer—to find him a ticket. A few minutes later, a friend called and mentioned that he was at the kever of the Ribnitzer Rebbe. The man asked his friend to also visit the kever of his own rabbi, Rabbi Yehudah Davis, who was buried nearby, and ask him to pray that his son would return quickly to his learning. The friend agreed. Amazingly, just ten minutes after the tefillah, the travel agent called back and said he had suddenly secured a flight for the boy—leaving in just two days. Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Friedman shared another remarkable story in his popular Gilyon Noam Siach . He had decided to dedicate a special issue of the publication to the teachings and stories of the Kossover rebbe who had passed away last year. Unbeknownst to him, a young man had just entered the stage of shidduchim and felt lost without the guidance of that very rebbe—someone he had turned to his whole life. At this crucial juncture, he went to the rebbe's kever and prayed for direction. A few days later, someone handed him the new issue of Noam Siach , which "happened' to include a section of the rebbe's teachings specifically about shidduchim . It was exactly what he needed. Hashem had answered him so directly and clearly, it filled him with joy and gratitude. Hashem loves when we grow in Torah and mitzvot—and He especially loves when we turn to Him for help in doing so. He answers, encourages, and uplifts those who sincerely strive to get closer to Him. May we all continue to grow and fulfill our true potential. Amen.

The importance of having a mission statement and why "shema" is the Jewish one.

La Mitsva de la vache rousse dépasse l'entendement humain. Cependant cette Mitsva doit être accomplie même sans en comprendre le sens, uniquement parce que Hachem l'a ordonnée. Est-ce à dire que l'on doit accomplir dans la Torah exclusivement ce que l'on comprend parfaitement et ce à quoi on adhère ? Où se trouve la juste mesure ? Réponse avec le Rambam.

In this episode, Rabbi Schneider asks the important question: Are you living your spiritual life independently of community? Join today to learn the significance of participating in our shared redemption. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate  **** TEACHING NOTES -  https://djj.show/m73   Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com

After thoroughly dissecting every verse of Shir HaMaalot, the season finale attempts to put all the pieces back together. The first three verses were about moving from dreams to true joy; the second three were about Joseph and Jacob's saga. Could both of these themes somehow be related?A Book Like No Other is a product of Aleph Beta, and made possible through the generous support of Shari and Nathan Lindenbaum. Aleph Beta is a Torah media company dedicated to spreading the joy and love of meaningful Torah learning worldwide.

Today's daf is sponsored by Gitta and David Neufeld in memory of Gitta’s father, Yosef ben Menachem Mendel v’Pesha a”h on his tenth yahrzeit. He cherished his family and Torah, and would be so proud of the generations following in his footsteps and adhering to his values and moral compass. וכתר שם טוב עולה על כולם Today's daf is sponsored by Harriet Hartman in memory of  Moshe Hartman, z’l, on his 6th yahrzeit. He continues to be missed dearly. He would delight in my learning, his children’s and his grandchildren’s learning, which we will honor with a family siyum on his yahrzeit. Today's daf is sponsored by Monica Steiner in honor of Rabbi David Abraham Kaplinsky, who begins his first pulpit in San Antonio, Texas today. May you find joy and strength in your work and community. I am so proud of you, David, and love you with all my heart. In an idolatrous city, one may purchase from stores that are not decorated for idolatry, but not from those that are adorned for such purposes. Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish disagree about both the reason for this prohibition and its scope. Reish Lakish is concerned with decorations that have beautiful scents, as the Jews will benefit from idol worship. According to Rabbi Yochanan, the issue is because those stores pay tribute to the idols. A difficulty is raised against Reish Lakish's position. In resolving the difficulty, the difficulty is moved to Rabbi Yochanan's position, but is resolved as well. Items purchased in a forbidden manner are to be rendered useless. For animals, this means to cut off the hooves. A question is asked why this isn't forbidden on account of tzaar baalei hayim - mistreatment of animals? Why, in another context of sanctified items, is the penalty to close the animal in a room and let it die? What is the difference between the two cases? If an animal purchased from an idol worshipper needs to have its hooves cut off, does something similar need to be done to a gentile slave that is purchased? The Gemara brings a different source to prove that one is not allowed to cause physical damage to a slave. What items can one not sell to an idol worshipper as part of the prohibition to put a stumbling block in front of a blind person?

In Parshas Chukas we read about the death of two giants: Miriam and Aaron, Moshe's older sister and brother, pass away. Our sages tell us that the death of the righteous serves as an atonement in a way similar to sacrifices. Just as sacrifices atone, so too does the death of the righteous. But why does the death of the righteous provide atonement? Why is the sacrifice used to convey this principle specifically the red heifer, the most unusual of sacrifices? In this delectable Parsha podcast, we discover critical elements, growth, change, and transformation.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the recording dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/03/25 ; 04/06/25 ; 04/10/25 ; 04/28/25 ; 05/07/25 What Is the Exact Placement of Tefillin Shel Yad—and How Precise Must It Be? The Torah instructs us to bind Tefillin "al zero'ekha"—on your arm. But where exactly is that? This Halacha explores the required placement of the Tefillin Shel Yad according to Halacha and Kabbala, how precise we must be with its position, and how to properly wear both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin on the arm at the same time. What Is the Required Area for the Tefillin Shel Yad? The Torah uses the phrase "al zero'ekha" — upon your arm — and the Gemara clarifies that this refers to the bicep, specifically the upper part of the arm between the shoulder and the elbow. The Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 27:1) rules that the Tefillin must be placed on the inner part of the bicep, facing the heart. This physical location expresses the idea of subjugating the heart to Hashem. The Tefillin Shel Yad represents control over the heart — the source of our emotions and desires — directing our inner feelings toward Avodat Hashem. There are two key placement criteria: 1. The Tefillin must be entirely above the elbow joint — even partially below the joint renders it Pasul. 2. The Tefillin must be placed on the fleshy part of the bicep — not too high where it sits on the shoulder bone, and not too low where it might encroach on the elbow itself. How Precise Does the Placement Need to Be? According to the Shulhan Aruch and Poskim, the correct position is between the midpoint of the bicep and the elbow, but slightly closer to the elbow than the shoulder. That is the ideal range. The Tefillin should not be too high — even one fingerbreadth above the permitted area can be a problem. Likewise, if the Bayit is touching or resting on the elbow joint itself, the Tefillin may be invalid. To help people keep within the boundaries, I recommend that the bottom of the Bayit should rest just above the elbow bone — close, but clearly above it. This guarantees the placement is kosher and within the Halachic zone. Some Poskim, like the Vilna Gaon, insist on precise mid-bicep placement. Others, like the Ben Ish Hai, suggest placing the Tefillin slightly lower — closer to the elbow — so long as it stays well above the joint. Our practice, based on the view of Maran and the Mekubalim, is to angle the Tefillin slightly downward, toward the elbow and heart. This not only fulfills the physical requirement, but also expresses the spiritual symbolism. Can It Be Placed Too Far Inward or Too Far Outward? Absolutely. The Tefillin Shel Yad must be placed on the inner side of the bicep, the part that faces the heart when the arm is resting down by the side. If it's wrapped too far around to the outer arm — or angled too far behind the bicep — it can be invalid. Some people make the mistake of pulling the strap too tightly, causing the Bayit to slide or rotate inward, pressing into the side of the arm. That may look secure, but it can distort the shape or angle of the Bayit. The Tefillin should rest flat, facing straight ahead, and not be forced inward or outward by pressure from the strap. How Should One Wear Both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin on the Same Arm? Many Sepharadim, especially those following the teachings of the Arizal and Ben Ish Hai, wear both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin during Shahrit. The Halacha permits wearing both Shel Yad Tefillin at the same time — but only if both boxes are positioned vertically, one above the other, within the Halachic zone. Typically, the Rashi is placed first, closer to the elbow, and the Rabbenu Tam slightly above it. This stacking is valid as long as both remain within the required area. However, one must never place the two boxes side by side (horizontally across the arm). That is Pasul. The Halacha demands the Tefillin be placed "on your arm," not "around your arm." Horizontally-spaced boxes do not fulfill the Misva at all. What If a Person Has a Smaller Arm and Can't Fit Both Tefillin? In many cases — especially with younger boys or people with thinner arms — there may not be enough room to fit both Tefillin one above the other. In that case, it is better to wear Rashi first, remove it, and then wear Rabbenu Tam afterward. There is no need to force both on at once. It's more important that each Tefillin is worn correctly and within the Halachic boundaries. Halacha never requires a person to compromise proper placement just to fulfill both customs simultaneously. If there is room, both can be worn together. If not, one after the other is perfectly acceptable and often preferred. Summary - The Tefillin Shel Yad must be worn on the inner bicep, above the elbow, angled toward the heart. - It must be entirely within the zone between the elbow and the shoulder, not sitting too high on the shoulder bone and not touching the elbow joint. - The Bayit should sit flat and upright — not twisted, not rotated inward, and not pushed outward by the strap. - When wearing both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin, they must be placed vertically, one above the other — never side by side. - If the arm is too small to fit both boxes properly, one should wear them separately, rather than compromising on Halachic placement.

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his exploration of Orchos Tzadikim (Ways of the Righteous), focusing within the chapter on laziness. Drawing from King Solomon's teachings in Proverbs, Rabbi Wolbe outlines seven characteristics of a lazy person, emphasizing their tendency to make excuses to avoid effort, such as fearing imaginary dangers like "lions in the streets" when urged to learn Torah from a visiting rabbi. He illustrates how laziness manifests as a refusal to act, even when opportunities—like free access to Torah resources in the modern era—are readily available. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the accessibility of Torah study today through platforms like YouTube, ArtScroll, and the All Daf app, noting that there are no valid excuses for ignorance in Judaism due to laziness. He shares a personal anecdote about learning Russian in the former Soviet Union by persistently collecting vocabulary, demonstrating how consistent effort transforms one-dimensional knowledge into a rich, multidimensional understanding, applicable to Torah study. Quoting Moses, Rabbi Wolbe underscores that Torah is "close to you, in your mouth and heart," requiring only action and desire to achieve greatness, not reliance on external blessings or lineage. He contrasts the lazy person, who procrastinates and fails to act, with the proactive individual who maximizes time and opportunities, such as listening to Torah classes while multitasking. The episode concludes with a Talmudic analogy of a lazy servant who feigns illness to avoid a king's missions, underscoring that laziness renders one unfit for both this world and the next. Rabbi Wolbe encourages listeners to train themselves to be proactive, overcome laziness, and seize the abundant opportunities for spiritual growth.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 3, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on July 1, 2025_____________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_____________Keywords:#Laziness, #Torah, #Productivity, #Neglect, #Excuses, #Growth, #Balance, #Pitfalls_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org ★ Support this podcast ★

Sponsored Message: Support Yeshivas Dover Tzedek, a chashuv yeshiva in Lakewood, and enter their raffle for a $10,000 dining room set. Tickets are $99 and proceeds go to support Torah learning.Enter here: https://thechesedfund.com/yeshivadovertzedek/dining-room-set-raffleOr call/text 917-772-2494 to buy tickets.-----Sivan Rahav Meir, one of Israel's most popular media personalities and a respected author and columnist, joins for the episode. Sivan shares her unique journey from journalism to becoming a prominent voice in Israeli media, balancing her public career with her private life. We discuss the challenges of being a public figure and so much more!To buy her books, learn more, or invite her to your community, school, or shul (digitally or in person), visit her website: https://sivanrahavmeir.com/home-en/-----To sponsor an episode: JewsShmoozeMarketing@gmail.comListen on the phone!! UK: 44-333-366-0589 IL: 972-79-579-5005 USA: 712-432-2903Check out the Jews Shmooze T-shirts and mug: https://rb.gy/qp543

We get vulnerable in this one! We dive deep into the ideas I heard from My Rebbi Rav Yitzock Berkovitz Shlita concerning the Yetzer Hora's lies when it comes to negative thoughts and depressive ideas. Along the way I confess to too much, just waaaay too much. 

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his exploration of Orchos Tzadikim (Ways of the Righteous), focusing within the chapter on laziness. Drawing from King Solomon's teachings in Proverbs, Rabbi Wolbe outlines seven characteristics of a lazy person, emphasizing their tendency to make excuses to avoid effort, such as fearing imaginary dangers like "lions in the streets" when urged to learn Torah from a visiting rabbi. He illustrates how laziness manifests as a refusal to act, even when opportunities—like free access to Torah resources in the modern era—are readily available. Rabbi Wolbe highlights the accessibility of Torah study today through platforms like YouTube, ArtScroll, and the All Daf app, noting that there are no valid excuses for ignorance in Judaism due to laziness. He shares a personal anecdote about learning Russian in the former Soviet Union by persistently collecting vocabulary, demonstrating how consistent effort transforms one-dimensional knowledge into a rich, multidimensional understanding, applicable to Torah study. Quoting Moses, Rabbi Wolbe underscores that Torah is "close to you, in your mouth and heart," requiring only action and desire to achieve greatness, not reliance on external blessings or lineage. He contrasts the lazy person, who procrastinates and fails to act, with the proactive individual who maximizes time and opportunities, such as listening to Torah classes while multitasking. The episode concludes with a Talmudic analogy of a lazy servant who feigns illness to avoid a king's missions, underscoring that laziness renders one unfit for both this world and the next. Rabbi Wolbe encourages listeners to train themselves to be proactive, overcome laziness, and seize the abundant opportunities for spiritual growth.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 3, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on July 1, 2025_____________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_____________Keywords:#Laziness, #Torah, #Productivity, #Neglect, #Excuses, #Growth, #Balance, #Pitfalls_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org ★ Support this podcast ★

Today's daf is sponsored by Gitta and David Neufeld in memory of Gitta’s father, Yosef ben Menachem Mendel v’Pesha a”h on his tenth yahrzeit. He cherished his family and Torah, and would be so proud of the generations following in his footsteps and adhering to his values and moral compass. וכתר שם טוב עולה על כולם Today's daf is sponsored by Harriet Hartman in memory of  Moshe Hartman, z’l, on his 6th yahrzeit. He continues to be missed dearly. He would delight in my learning, his children’s and his grandchildren’s learning, which we will honor with a family siyum on his yahrzeit. Today's daf is sponsored by Monica Steiner in honor of Rabbi David Abraham Kaplinsky, who begins his first pulpit in San Antonio, Texas today. May you find joy and strength in your work and community. I am so proud of you, David, and love you with all my heart. In an idolatrous city, one may purchase from stores that are not decorated for idolatry, but not from those that are adorned for such purposes. Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Lakish disagree about both the reason for this prohibition and its scope. Reish Lakish is concerned with decorations that have beautiful scents, as the Jews will benefit from idol worship. According to Rabbi Yochanan, the issue is because those stores pay tribute to the idols. A difficulty is raised against Reish Lakish's position. In resolving the difficulty, the difficulty is moved to Rabbi Yochanan's position, but is resolved as well. Items purchased in a forbidden manner are to be rendered useless. For animals, this means to cut off the hooves. A question is asked why this isn't forbidden on account of tzaar baalei hayim - mistreatment of animals? Why, in another context of sanctified items, is the penalty to close the animal in a room and let it die? What is the difference between the two cases? If an animal purchased from an idol worshipper needs to have its hooves cut off, does something similar need to be done to a gentile slave that is purchased? The Gemara brings a different source to prove that one is not allowed to cause physical damage to a slave. What items can one not sell to an idol worshipper as part of the prohibition to put a stumbling block in front of a blind person?

Trusting the Generous One

Comparing and contrasting “The Prince of Egypt” by Dreamworks Animation with scriptures from The Torah, The Holy Bible, and the Qur'an.  This podcast contains certain copyrighted works that were not specifically authorized to be used by the copyright holder(s), but which we believe in good faith are protected by federal law and the fair use doctrine (Section […] The post CSO 19c – The Prince of Egypt Part 3 first appeared on Cinema Story Origins Podcast.

The pasuk at the conclusion of Parashat Beshalach reads: וַיִּבֶן מֹשֶׁה מִזְבֵּחַ וַיִּקְרָא שְׁמוֹ ה' נִסִּי Moshe built a Mizbeach after the Jews defeated Amalek, as a commemoration for the miracle that Hashem did for them. To defeat such a powerful nation, Moshe made this Mizbeach. Rabbi Menashe Reizman quoted the Ktav Sofer who asked: was this the only miracle that Hashem did for the Jewish people at that time? There were the Ten Makot, Keriat Yam Suf, the Man, the Be'er Shel Miriam. Why did Moshe make a Mizbeach only to commemorate the miracle of winning the war against Amalek? The Ktav Sofer answered that until that point, all of the miracles that the Jews had experienced were beyond the realms of nature, and it was obvious that Hashem and only Hashem performed them. However, the miracles in the war against Amalek came in the natural way of the world. Men were appointed to be soldiers and physically fight Amalek. It was people with swords doing battle, and there it may have seemed that it was their strength that enabled them to win the war. Therefore, specifically by that miracle, Moshe needed to do something to proclaim that it was Hashem's doing and that the people should recognize it through that Mizbeach and attribute the victory to Him. As we just experienced a victory in war, eliminating threats from Iran—who have been threatening to annihilate the Jewish people for decades—it behooves us to take a step back and recognize the Yad Hashem in this war as much as we can. We learn from Megillat Esther how to connect the dots of Hashem's involvement in world events from years before they take place. In Shushan HaBirah, the king moved his palace to where Mordechai and Esther lived. He killed his wife Vashti and then Esther came into the palace. Mordechai overheard the plot of Bigtan and Teresh and saved the king's life. It all came together when Haman decreed to annihilate the Jewish people. Hashem had been setting this stage from thirteen years in advance for those critical moments when everything had to be exactly the way it was to save the Jewish people. Here as well, Hashem was working in advance to pave the way for the destruction of our enemies. Chazal tell us we are like a sheep among seventy wolves, waiting to devour us, but we have Hashem—and therefore nobody ever will. In this instance, Hashem used America to assist us in this war, primarily through the actions of President Trump. Looking at it from the natural way of the world, which Hashem hides Himself inside of, it was because Trump is president that Israel had free reign to do as they pleased regarding their surrounding enemies. Nobody was putting restraint on them as previous administrations had done. It was the president's decision to enter the war and wipe out those dangerous nuclear facilities. The fact that this man is the current president is an open miracle. After the January 6th uprising on Capitol Hill after his defeat in the last election, it was obvious that Trump would never be back in politics. Yet, he was able to make the biggest comeback of all time. Obviously, Yad Hashem. Hashem made the man who he ran against in the last election feeble-minded to pave the way to his presidency. He was nearly assassinated, with bullets grazing his ear, yet he emerged alive and stronger than ever. When America got involved, it could easily have triggered World War III. Russia and China are great allies of Iran. However, Hashem had occupied Russia with their own war for the past three years, which kept them far away from this one. Trump decided to make tariffs on foreign countries, with China being the highest, and therefore they had back-and-forth negotiations over the past couple of months. China and America came to a happy agreement and made a peaceful relationship through those tariffs, so that they would stay out of this war as well. Hashem has heaped chesed upon His nation in wondrous ways, and it is incumbent upon us to show our hakarat hatov. We don't understand all the ways of Hashem, but we do know that since October 7th, there has been a renaissance of ba'alei teshuvah, people getting closer to Torah and mitzvot. Furthermore, the events of October 7th opened the door for Israel to decimate Hamas and Hezbollah. We pray for Hashem to bring back the rest of the hostages. We feel that we are very close to the geulah. Rabbi Reizman quoted the Chazal that says, "Whoever reports something in the name of the person who said it brings redemption to the world," and the Maharal there explains that to mean: the one who Hashem chooses to bring the geulah has to be someone who is going to give the credit of the salvation to Him. Someone who is able to give credit where credit is due is someone who will potentially be part of the upcoming geulah. We pray for the day when everyone in the world will recognize that Hashem is the King, and that He controls and rules over everything. We have just witnessed with our own eyes how President Trump thanked Hashem numerous times—first for saving his life and enabling him to do his mission, and now in his role in the war, Trump has said, "We love you, G-d." And then we saw Netanyahu tell the world that Israel's strength comes from Hashem's heavenly help. The world is hearing that success comes only from Hashem. We hope that we are at the doorstep of geulah. May we see the geulah sheleimah b'karov. Amen.

In this teaching, Rabbi Schneider unpacks the deeper meaning behind the commandment to not take God's name in vain and also explores the life-changing principle of the Sabbath. Discover how honoring God's name and His day of rest can bring spiritual refreshment and alignment to your life.

In a culture obsessed with youth and novelty, the Torah offers a radically different vision: “Mipnei seivah takum”—rise before the elderly. This week, Rabbi Josh Feigelson explores the mitzvah of honoring elders as both an ethical imperative and a powerful opportunity for mindfulness. Drawing on Jewish wisdom, comedy legend Mel Brooks, and spiritual practice, Josh invites us to confront our own discomfort with aging and instead embrace the dignity, humanity, and wisdom of our elders. Be in touch at a new email address: 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, AND BY Rebecca Halpern, in loving memory of her father, Richard, and her mother, Maddy, at the conclusion of the first thirty days of mourning since she passed away. May their memories be a blessing.  --------------- This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Jewish History Nerds⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

The Halacha below was derived from multiple classes orated by Rabbi Eli Mansour in the Bekiim B'Halacha series. Click on any of the recording dates below to hear the original audio files, which are the sources for today's Halacha below. 04/02/25 ; 04/03/25 ; 04/07/25 ; 04/09/25 ; 05/04/25 Which Arm Should a Person Use for Tefillin—And What If He Is Left-Handed, Ambidextrous, or Disabled? The Torah commands us to bind Tefillin "on your arm." But which arm? That question is settled by our Sages: the arm referred to is the weaker arm. So for a right-handed person, Tefillin go on the left arm, and for a left-handed person, they go on the right. This Halacha examines how the decision is made, and how the Halacha applies to left-handed people, those who are ambidextrous, and individuals with limited use of one arm due to injury, paralysis, or amputation. What Is the Halachic Rule for Determining Which Arm to Use? The verse says, "Ukeshartam le'ot al yadekha" — "You shall bind them as a sign upon your arm." The Sages explain that this means the hand opposite the writing hand. That's the basic rule. If you write with your right hand, the Tefillin go on your left arm. If you write with your left hand, they go on your right. This is how the Shulhan Aruch rules in Orah Haim 27:6. The Mishnah Berura follows the same position. The weaker hand is used for Tefillin, because the act of binding represents control and submission of our actions to Hashem — and this symbolism applies specifically to the hand that is not dominant. What If a Person Writes with One Hand but Does Most Tasks with the Other? This comes up a lot. Let's say someone writes with his left hand but eats, throws, and does everything else with his right. Which is his dominant hand? The general rule is that writing is the primary indicator of dominance. If a person writes with his left hand, he is considered left-handed for Halachic purposes — and he should wear Tefillin on his right arm. Even if he does many other things with his right hand, the fact that he writes with his left gives it priority in Halacha. That said, if there's real uncertainty — someone is truly mixed or doesn't feel natural with either — he should speak to a Rav. But in most cases, the writing hand decides the matter. What If a Person Is Ambidextrous? In a rare case where someone uses both hands equally and writes comfortably with both, the Halacha treats him like a righty, meaning the Tefillin should be worn on the left arm. That's the ruling in most Poskim. In cases of doubt, we follow rov — the majority — and most people are right-handed. What If a Person Loses Use of His Dominant Hand? If a person becomes permanently unable to use his dominant hand — due to stroke, nerve damage, or any other reason — and now functions primarily with the opposite hand, the Halachic ruling may change. That person is now treated as if his non-dominant hand has become dominant, and the Tefillin should be worn on the new weaker arm. I once had a case where a man lost full use of his right arm. He was born right-handed, but after an injury, he could no longer write, eat, or function with that arm. He was now doing everything with his left. In that case, we ruled that he was now a lefty and should put Tefillin on his right arm. If the condition is temporary, such as post-surgery or while recovering from an injury, the ruling stays as-is. But if the condition is permanent and the person's habits have shifted accordingly, the Halacha adapts. What If One Arm Has Been Amputated? If someone is missing one of his arms, this too affects how Tefillin is worn. - If a right-handed person has had his left arm amputated, then the usual placement of the Tefillin Shel Yad is impossible. - If there remains some muscle or upper-arm area, and the strap can be wrapped around it, the Tefillin may be placed there. - If nothing usable remains, the Tefillin Shel Yad cannot be worn — but the person should still wear the Tefillin Shel Rosh. This is a rare case, but one that arises. The general rule is that Tefillin must be placed on the upper arm in a specific position. If there's no limb, the Misva simply doesn't apply in that case — but one still fulfills the Misva of the Shel Rosh. Does This Apply Equally to Tefillin of Rabbenu Tam? Absolutely. Whether one is wearing Tefillin of Rashi, Rabbenu Tam, or both, the choice of arm follows the exact same rule. We don't differentiate based on which Tefillin you're wearing. The arm is chosen based on your dominant hand — period. Summary - Tefillin are worn on the weaker arm: left for righties, right for lefties. - The writing hand determines which arm is considered dominant. - Ambidextrous people are generally treated as right-handed and wear Tefillin on the left arm. - If a person permanently loses use of their dominant hand, the Halacha may shift and reclassify their status. - In cases of amputation, Tefillin are worn if possible on remaining muscle. If not, the Shel Rosh should be worn without the Shel Yad. - This applies equally to both Rashi and Rabbenu Tam Tefillin.

The author of this Mishnah served as the rabbi of Rome. While all his colleagues were coalesced together in the great Torah centers of Israel, Rabbi Masya Ben Charash led the small community and academy in the epicenter of impurity. How he got there is certainly a tantalizing question. In this teaching he guides us […]

"Exodus, Exile and Redemption" is a study of the profound significance of Judaism's history. Written essays are published bi-weekly ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Please subscribe!This series is made possible by the Jacob Lights Foundation. To support this and other ongoing foundation initiatives, please consider becoming a paid subscriber to the Substack newsletter or making a tax-deductible donation via Zelle to jacoblightsfoundation@gmail.com.

Tanya Applied: Episode 217: Chapter 26.02: How Depression Weakens UsA journey into the deepest teachings of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.The Tanya Applied radio show is broadcast every Saturday night, 10–10:30PM ET onWSNR 620 AM – Metro NY areaWJPR 1640 AM — Highland Park and Edison, NJOnline: www.talklinenetwork.comBy phone: Listen Line: 641-741-0389Many of us may be familiar with some of the central ideas in Tanya – including the battle of the two souls; what defines man and makes us tick; how we can control our temptations; how we can become more loving; what we can do to curb and harness our vices, like anger, jealousy, and depression; the formula for growth; how we can develop a healthy relationship with G-d; and why we are here. In this 30-minute program, you will learn how these ideas can be applied to your life today. You will discover secrets to a successful life that will transform you and your relationships.Rabbi Simon Jacobson is the best-selling author of Toward a Meaningful Life, and he is the creator of the acclaimed and popular MyLife: Chassidus Applied series, which has empowered and transformed hundreds of thousands through Torah and Chassidus.Now, Rabbi Jacobson brings his vast scholarship and years of experience to Tanya. Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson for this exhilarating journey into your psyche and soul. You will come away with life-changing practical guidance and direction, addressing all the issues and challenges you face in life.For more info: www.chassidusapplied.com/tanyaMusic by Zalman Goldstein • www.ChabadMusic.coms of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.A journey into the deepest teachings of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.The Tanya Applied radio show is broadcast every Saturday night, 10–10:30PM ET onWSNR 620 AM – Metro NY areaWJPR 1640 AM — Highland Park and Edison, NJOnline: www.talklinenetwork.comBy phone: Listen Line: 641-741-0389Many of us may be familiar with some of the central ideas in Tanya – including the battle of the two souls; what defines man and makes us tick; how we can control our temptations; how we can become more loving; what we can do to curb and harness our vices, like anger, jealousy, and depression; the formula for growth; how we can develop a healthy relationship with G-d; and why we are here. In this 30-minute program, you will learn how these ideas can be applied to your life today. You will discover secrets to a successful life that will transform you and your relationships.Rabbi Simon Jacobson is the best-selling author of Toward a Meaningful Life, and he is the creator of the acclaimed and popular MyLife: Chassidus Applied series, which has empowered and transformed hundreds of thousands through Torah and Chassidus.Now, Rabbi Jacobson brings his vast scholarship and years of experience to Tanya. Please join Rabbi Simon Jacobson for this exhilarating journey into your psyche and soul. You will come away with life-changing practical guidance and direction, addressing all the issues and challenges you face in life.For more info: www.chassidusapplied.com/tanyaMusic by Zalman Goldstein • www.ChabadMusic.coms of the Torah and their application to our personal, emotional and psychological lives.

What if the early church knew something we've forgotten? In this powerful conversation, Rabbi Schneider shares surprising insights from his new book, Decoding the Torah—truths that could reshape how you read Scripture and walk with God today. **** BECOME A MONTHLY PARTNER - https://djj.show/YTAPartner   **** DONATE - https://djj.show/YTADonate   Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com

Perhaps the most controversial and divisive subject that dominates Israeli society today is the question of the blanket army exemption given to Yeshiva students. Someone whose Torah is their profession is entitled to defer and ultimately bypass mandatory constriction to the IDF. What is the rationale for this exemption? Why are the ultra-orthodox (Chareidi) communities […]

In this week's parsha, we read about a highly unusual mitzvah: The Red Heifer, when an entirely red cow is burned together with a motley concoction of ingredients, and the resultant ashes are used to sprinkle on people that came into contact with dead people in order to purify them from their spiritual contamination. We also learn about the passing of Miriam and Aaron, and the multiple battles that the nation participated in on the Eastern bank of the Jordan, and we puzzle over the sin that condemned Moses and Aaron to die before entering the Land.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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 ★

Perhaps the most controversial and divisive subject that dominates Israeli society today is the question of the blanket army exemption given to Yeshiva students. Someone whose Torah is their profession is entitled to defer and ultimately bypass mandatory constriction to the IDF. What is the rationale for this exemption? Why are the ultra-orthodox (Chareidi) communities so adamantly opposed to serving in the army? Don't they know the imperative to help contribute towards the safety and protection of the nation? Don't they know the chastisement that Moshe levied on the tribes of Reuben and Gad when they asked to stay on the East Bank of the Jordan? What are the ways by which these seemingly intractable gaps can be bridged? In this podcast we attempt to demystify the subject of Chareidi refusal to enlist in the IDF.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –This special podcast is dedicated in loving memory of R' Shlomo Ben Avigdor Moshe and R' Yitzchak Yaakov ben Eliyahu. And it should be a merit for all their descendants.– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –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!– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –Email me with questions, comments, and feedback: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to my Newsletterrabbiwolbe.com/newsletter– – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – –SUBSCRIBE to Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe's PodcastsThe Parsha PodcastThe Jewish History PodcastThe Mitzvah Podcast This Jewish LifeThe Ethics PodcastTORAH 101 ★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast's Mussar Masterclass, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the 16th gate of the Orchos Tzaddikim, focusing on the destructive trait of laziness. He explains how laziness not only prevents individuals from fulfilling Torah study and mitzvahs but also leads to harmful outcomes, like a neglected field producing thorns, as illustrated by King Solomon's parable in Proverbs. Laziness fosters excuses, distorted rationalizations, and a preference for idle pursuits, such as mocking or chasing fleeting pleasures, which derail spiritual growth. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts this with the zeal of a righteous person who diligently engages in Torah and good deeds, urging listeners to overcome laziness to avoid missing opportunities for meaningful accomplishment in this world and the next.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on March 3, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 29, 2025_____________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_____________Keywords:#Laziness, #Torah, #Productivity, #Neglect, #Excuses, #Growth, #Balance, #Pitfalls_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org ★ Support this podcast ★

Rabbi Elazar Ben Aruch was the most promising student of Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai. Unfortunately, his potential was not actualized, and in fact he forgot his Torah. In this autobiographical Mishnah, he shares with us the reason why his greatness did not pan out. This Ethics Podcast was originally released on the Ethics Podcast on […]

Journeying through large swaths of the Jewish world of the 18th century, Rav Chaim Yosef David Azulai (1724-1806), known by his acronym the Chida, was privy to the broad range of the various Jewish communities across Europe and North Africa, as well as observing the happenings within each community as an objective observer. He recorded his impressions of his travels, which remains an invaluable historical document, produced by one of the greatest Torah scholars in recent centuries. As a world class Torah scholar who served as a fundraiser on behalf of the Sephardic Old Yishuv of the Land of Israel, the Chida spent the majority of his life on the road, eventually settling in Livorno, Italy, where he served as rabbi until his passing. His literary output was immense, with his many seforim remaining popular until this very day.        Subscribe to Jewish History Soundbites Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ or your favorite podcast platform Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites For sponsorship opportunities about your favorite topics of Jewish history or feedback contact Yehuda at:  yehuda@yehudageberer.com