torchweb

Talmudist: Man's Responsibility 3

Immerse yourself in the essence of Torah and transform your life! Our latest episode promises to uncover the profound significance of Parshas Bechukosai, where we journey beyond mere mitzvah observance to the very heart of Torah study. Through insightful commentary from Rashi and an evocative parable by the Chofetz Chaim, we explore how Torah is not just a set of rules, but a divine language and the very fabric of our lives. Discover how the blessings recited each morning can deepen your connection to this sacred study and inspire you to make Torah an integral part of your daily existence. In a touching segment, hear a moving bar mitzvah tradition that underscores the power of self-driven Torah study over seeking miraculous blessings. Guided by the wisdom of a humble grandfather, we highlight that becoming a Torah scholar is within reach for anyone willing to dedicate themselves to learning. We share personal anecdotes and stories that celebrate the inclusive nature of the Talmud, encouraging every Jew to embrace Torah as their rightful inheritance and find personal connections to great scholars, making Jewish knowledge accessible to all earnest seekers. Our episode also emphasizes the invaluable practice of independent study in understanding Halachah, Jewish Law, drawing from a poignant story about a grandfather's advice to his grandson. Learn how researching halachic questions independently enriches one's knowledge and application of Jewish law, supplemented by reflections on studying under Rabbi Yitzchak Berkowitz. We conclude with a powerful message of perseverance in teaching and learning, illustrated through personal stories. Tune in to grasp the urgency of our mission from a Torah perspective, urging continuous learning and spiritual growth to elevate our lives. This episode (Ep 6.33) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bechukosai is dedicated in Honor of Shloime & Mushky Zionce & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation! Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 28, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on May 29, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Enjoy the read-along options: Ashkenazic | Sephardic | Chassidic Have you ever paused to consider the marvel of your own heartbeat, or the silent symphony of your breathing? In our latest episode of the Prayer Podcast, we journey through the extraordinary landscape of the human body and its divine counterpart, the soul. We revel in the Asher Yatzar blessing, which is often recited in a moment of humble gratitude post-restroom use, and examine how this simple act can lead to a profound appreciation for the miracles that sustain us daily. We share tales close to my heart - from the awe felt during EMT training, to the resilient spirit of a daughter fighting an infection. These narratives bring to life the miraculous self-healing powers and balance of our bodies, offering a perspective that intertwines the scientific with the spiritual. Our discussion traverses the physical actions that carry spiritual weight, and how traditions such as shuckling during prayer enrich our connection to the divine. Throughout, we question the extent of modern medicine's reach and its relationship with the soulful dance of healing. Wrapping up our introspective session, we focus on the transformative power of intention within the Asher Yatzar prayer. Drawing on Rabbi Schwab's insights, we ponder the potential for enhanced health through mindful recitation. Whether you're fluent in Hebrew or finding your way with the English, this practice promises to elevate the everyday to the realm of the sacred. Join us in a collective prayer for health and success, as we strive to serve with all of ourselves - body and soul harmoniously entwined. Download the Prayer Podcast Worksheets: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1iBVevW1ydyjSeyeO0iCcina7e8vix3Lt?usp=sharing This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg This episode (Ep. #15) of the Prayer Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 21, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on May 27, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Talmudist: How Much Torah? (KIddushin 30a)

When we witness the fall of someone who has embodied evil, the tangle of emotions can be as complex as the Talmudic debates themselves. In this episode we embark on a riveting journey through the Jewish lens on justice, mercy, and the celebration—or lack thereof—of an adversary's demise. Our conversation was sparked by the global reactions to the death of the Iranian president, Ibrahim Raisi Y"S, a poignant moment that brought ancient teachings squarely into the present. Rabbi Nagel shared his insights on the nuanced dance between human joy and angelic restraint, raising questions about our response to the end of wickedness. Amidst our dialogue, we traversed the moral landscape that defines Jewish identity, especially when confronting unrepentant foes. The episode traverses the treacherous path of "misplaced mercy" against the backdrop of survival, with historical echoes from the Mossad's storied interventions. Personal narratives and the hope-infused message of Pesach Sheini added layers of complexity to our discussion, reminding us that even amidst the gravest of circumstances, there remains room for repentance and redemption. As we scrutinized international reactions, including those of the United Nations, the conversation inevitably turned toward the critical need to uphold a clear moral compass in our world—a world where the distinction between good and evil must stand unwavering. Join Rabbi Nagel and Rabbi Wolbe for an episode that will confront your convictions and invite a deeper contemplation of justice, responsibility, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish ethos. This Episode (#21) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast is dedicated in loving memory of Sara Bas Menachem Z"L Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B on May 23, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on March 23, 2024 _____________ Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas ASK! To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to unboxing@torchweb.org Rabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additionally, Rabbi Nagel serves as the Senior Rabbi at Heimish of Houston and has been delivering the Daf Yomi (Daily Folio of Talmud) for TORCH since 2003. Rabbi Nagel is the Head of the Court for Jewish Divorce and actively serves as a member of the Houston Beis Din. Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe serves as the Director of TORCH since 2005. _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Yaakov Nagel: Daf Yomi Podcast - https://linktr.ee/DafYomiPodcast Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Embark on a spiritual exploration with us as we uncover the timeless wisdom of Parsha Behar, a treasure trove of lessons on faith and resilience anchored in the practices of the sabbatical and jubilee years. Unravel the mystery of why these commandments were given to our ancestors and us in the desert, and let's reflect together on the Shemitah year—a divine reminder that all we possess is a generous gift from Hashem. Our conversation will weave through historical events, such as the recent miraculous protection of Israel, to illuminate the profound impact of these ancient laws on our contemporary understanding of divine providence and trust. Be inspired by the tale of a secular kibbutz whose leap into observing the sabbatical year brought about an unexpected harvest of faith and fortune. As we discuss their experience and the resulting bounty that defied their skepticism, we reaffirm the spiritual principle that gratitude and recognition of the divine imbue our daily lives with deeper meaning. Through the lens of Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, we'll confront the allure of worldly assurances and rediscover the essence of Jewish identity—finding strength in life's uncertainties through an unwavering faith in Hashem. Join us for this journey steeped in tradition and rich with insight, as we celebrate the resilience that defines our spiritual heritage. This episode (Ep 6.32) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Behar is dedicated in Honor of Levi & Leah Netzer on the engagement of our children & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation! Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 21, 2024, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on May 22, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Morning Blessings 4: Asher Yatzar

Keep it Holy (Parsha In-Focus: Kedoshim)

Watch VERY Carefully (Parsha In-Focus: Acharei Mos)

Day 10 - Arrogance is VERY Disliked by Hashem (Orchos Tzaddikim | Arrogance 1)

Day 9: Having the Right Tools (Orchos Tzaddikim)

This episode is from the Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Remembering the playful antics and fierce tantrums of our younger years can often bring a smile to our face, but little did we realize the profound truth they held about our character. On today's enlightening journey, we're joined by the teachings of Orchos Tzaddikim and the sagely wisdom of Shlomo HaMelech, King Solomon, as we unravel the significance of those childhood behaviors in shaping our adult selves. Can the purity and uprightness of our youth forecast the virtues or challenges we may face as we grow? This episode is not merely a study session but a mirror into our own past, offering a secret tool to polish the tarnished traits we've accumulated throughout our lives. As we reflect on the conversations with my beloved grandfather, Rabbi Shlomo Wolbe Z"L, the episode becomes a deeply personal exploration into the art of self-improvement. We discuss the metaphorical journey of restoring the original shine of a silver tray, much like the laborious but rewarding process of reclaiming the admirable qualities we may have lost under life's relentless pressures. By revisiting the varying scenarios of our childhood, we learn to distinguish the good from the bad, striving towards an authentic connection with Hashem. Join us as we embark on this transformative adventure, gaining insights to elevate our character and our spirit. 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) Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio D in Passaic, NJ on April 25, 2024. Released as Podcast on April 26, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Join us as we navigate the treacherous terrain of human traits, where each characteristic has the potential to lead us astray like wild beasts in a desert. In our discussion, we liken the soul to a battleground where vigilance is our only defense against the darker sides of our nature. We emphasize the importance of maintaining the light of truth and our connection to the divine, drawing on the powerful imagery of a person surrounded by predators, each representing a different internal conflict. As we reflect on the careful nurturing required for both physical and spiritual growth, we ponder the profound impact of wisdom versus foolishness in shaping our lives. Listen in as we take a thoughtful journey through the study of traits with the guidance of the timeless wisdom found in Orchos Tzaddikim. We explore the complex tapestry of our own personalities, assessing the balance of our virtues and vices. This conversation is not just an intellectual exercise but a practical guide to self-improvement, aiming to bring listeners closer to self-awareness and personal perfection. With a blend of hope and divine inspiration, we seek to better understand ourselves and cultivate a life story written with intention, virtue, and enlightenment. 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) Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio D in Passaic, NJ on April 25, 2024. Released as Podcast on April 25, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Join us as we explore the indispensable nature of Yiras Shomayim, or fear of heaven, in the cultivation of virtuous character traits. We delve into the analogy of a pearl necklace to understand how Yiras Shomayim acts as the clasp that holds the pearls—our positive traits—together. Without this clasp, our virtues risk scattering and being lost. We discuss the wisdom required to turn negative traits into positive ones and caution against allowing even a single detrimental trait, like arrogance, to erode our hard-earned qualities. This episode is a powerful reminder of the subtleties of personal development and the importance of Yiras Shomayim in safeguarding our spiritual growth. Listen in as we contemplate the journey toward realizing and honing our potential, likened to uncovering a precious gem. The conversation emphasizes the value of guidance from the wise and righteous, shedding light on the path to self-improvement and embodying the divine in our daily lives. We stress the significance of nurturing our fear of heaven and the impact of finding a mentor who can steer us away from fleeting impulses and towards a life of purpose and meaning. This episode serves as an invitation to recognize our inherent greatness and the relentless pursuit of becoming exemplary individuals in a world of distractions. 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) Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio D in Passaic, NJ on April 25, 2024. Released as Podcast on April 25, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Have you ever considered the precious nature of your own soul, similar to how a silversmith regards a fine metal, requiring careful refinement? That's the journey we embark on in this episode, with insights from the Orchos Tzaddikim directing us toward the diligent work of self-improvement. We tackle the all too familiar foes of laziness and aimlessness, unraveling the processes that can help us replace negative habits with admirable virtues. We share personal experiences and guiding principles that shine a light on the path to humility, steering clear of slander, and ultimately leading us to the revered state of Yiras Shamayim—the awe-inspired fear of Heaven. In our quest for personal growth, we often overlook the sacredness of our motives, but what if the key to true character development lies in a deep-seated reverence for the divine? This episode reveals how the teachings from Deuteronomy aren't just ancient texts but are pivotal to elevating our transformation from mundane to spiritually significant. We dissect the concept of Yiras Shamayim and its role as the cornerstone for refining our character traits. It's not just about patience over impulsiveness or vigor over sloth; it's about ensuring these virtues are deeply rooted in a profound respect, awe and fear for the Creator, which prevents our efforts from being fleeting and trivial. Join us in this philosophical and transformational discussion that will inspire you to align your virtues with a higher calling. 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) Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio D in Passaic, NJ on April 25, 2024. Released as Podcast on April 25, 2024 _____________ 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! _____________ SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________ EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org _____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

Day 3 - The Power of Refining Your Inner Qualities (Orchos Tzadikim)

Day 2: Awakening Virtue Via the Five Senses (Orchos Tzadikim)

Day 1 - The Path to Spiritual Enlightenment Through Reverence (Orchos Tzadikim)

Crimson-dyed Wool (Parsha In-Focus: Metzora)

Iran: God's Promise

Talmudist: Man's Priorities 2 (Kiddushin 29b)

Morning Blessings 3: Netilas Yadayim

Mitzvah By Dedication (Parsha In-Focus: Tazria)

Talmudist: Man's Obligation (Kiddushin 29a)

Morning Blessings 2: Reishis Chochma