The Parsha Podcast - With Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe (TORCH)
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| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Oct 2016 | Bereishis – The Ominous Beginnings of Man | 01:11:17 | |
This is the first of a series on the entire Torah. Every week will feature a new episode that begins with a synopsis of the parsha and insights and lessons and themes from it. The topics discussed in this epsode: Parsha Overview – [0:00] The World Was Created with Ten Utterances – [6:46] Hell Created on […] | |||
| 30 Oct 2016 | Noach – Treating the Symptoms of Sin | 01:19:49 | |
A synopsis of the parsha and insights and lessons and themes from it. The topics discussed in this epsode: The 120 Year Grace Period for Mankind – [0:00] The Enigmatic Character of Noah – [4:35] The Ark as Refuge; Ark’s Dimensions – [13:25] Fiting everyone into the Ark – [18:45] A Personal Flood And a Personal Ark […] | |||
| 07 Nov 2016 | Lech Lecha – A Covenant of Greatness | 01:11:25 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Abraham, the Most Transformative Human of All Time – [0:00] Abraham’s Ten Tests and the Test of Lech Lecha– [2:48] The Souls that they made in Charan – [19:45] Israel, Godly Promises and the Egypt Episode – […] | |||
| 14 Nov 2016 | Vayeira – Reconciling Kindness and Child-Sacrifice | 01:20:04 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Kindness Superseding Prophecy – [0:00] Deconstructing Abraham’s Kindness with the Three Strangers – [9:57] Abraham’s Intercession on Behalf of Sodom – [25:23] Abraham’s Unsuccessful Kindnesses: How Kindness and Faith are Correlated and How Lot’s Kindness differed from Abraham’s – […] | |||
| 21 Nov 2016 | Chayei Sara – Unselfish Spouses | 01:08:38 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: The Death, Bereavment and Burial of Sarah – [0:00] The Cave of the Machpelah – [14:23] Eliezer’s Oath, Eligibility Test for a prospective Spouse for Isaac– [23:26] Eliezer’s Encounter with Lavan and Rebecca’s family and the Corruptive […] | |||
| 28 Nov 2016 | Toldos – Intrauterine Cosmic Struggle | 01:11:02 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Praying As Response to Infertility – [0:00] God Answers Isaac’s Prayer – [4:52] Jacob and Esau intrauterine Struggling; Esau Pining for Idolatry; The Cosmic Struggle between the Two Worlds – [10:16] Jacob Seizing the Ankle of Esau and their Childhood; […] | |||
| 05 Dec 2016 | Vayeitzei – Nation Building | 00:55:30 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Jacob’s Dream – [0:00] Jacob’s Ladder – [9:10] Jacob’s Pledge compared to God’s Promise – [13:59] On the Meaning of Stones in the Parsha; The Power of Inspiration – [19:00] Jacob Meets Rachel – [22:54] Seven Years in Exchange […] | |||
| 11 Dec 2016 | Vayishlach – Twin Tussles | 01:09:45 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Jacob’s Preparation for the Encounter with Esau – [0:00] Jacob’s Fears: Of Loss of Merits, Of Esau and Of Esau’s “Brotherly Love” – [9:09] The Bribe – [13:29] Jacob Hid Dina to Shield her from Esau – [16:06] […] | |||
| 18 Dec 2016 | Vayeishev – Strange Paths to Redemption | 01:05:51 | |
Parshas Vayeishev marks the dramatic descent of Joseph, from Jacob’s favorite son to alleged attempted rapist languishing in an Egyptian prison. In retrospect, this Parsha tells the beginning of the founding of the Jewish nation and the back story to the nation’s most prestigious family. The topics discussed in this episode: Jacob’s Favoritism towards Joseph – […] | |||
| 25 Dec 2016 | Mikeitz – From Prisoner to Viceroy | 00:51:52 | |
Parshas Mikeitz tells the dramatic transformation of Joseph from lowly prisoner to exalted viceroy of Egypt, his oversight of Egyptian preparation for famine and how he related to his brothers who sought grain. The topics discussed in this episode: Joseph’s Ascension to grandeur – [0:00]; Joseph’s Suggestion: Seek a wise person – [10:08]; Joseph enshrined as […] | |||
| 02 Jan 2017 | Vayigash – A Family Descends | 00:50:37 | |
Parshas Vayigash begins with Joseph’s dramatic revelation to his brothers and ends with the descent of Jacob and his descendents to Egypt, where they will spend the next several hundred years burgeoning into a great nation. The topics discussed in this episode: Joseph reveals his True Identity – [0:00]; The Brothers Silence in the Face […] | |||
| 08 Jan 2017 | Vayechi – Deathbed Priorities | 00:58:32 | |
Parshas Vayrchi is oriented around the illness and death of Jacob. The Jewish family is growing and establishing roots in Egypt. Their spiritual leader and guide is going to pass, and they will ease into Egyptian life, culminating in their eventual enslavement. In his waning moments, Jacob gathers his children, blesses them, and provides them […] | |||
| 15 Jan 2017 | Shemos – The Iron Crucible | 00:56:46 | |
The book of Exodus begins with the enslavement of the Jewish people in Egypt. Interestingly, when Abraham was selected to be the father of the Chosen People he was informed that his descendents will be subject to severe national suffering in a foreign land.Seemingly, the enslavement was an ideal, and necessary, component of becoming God’s […] | |||
| 22 Jan 2017 | Vaeira – Educational Plagues | 01:00:35 | |
In Parshas Vaeira we see the humbling of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. We learn about the first seven of the Ten Plagues and their purpose and significance. More broadly, we delve into the objective of the Exodus at large. The topics discussed in this episode: Introduction to the Plagues and Exodus: The various Names of […] | |||
| 29 Jan 2017 | Bo – Climactic Exodus | 01:14:51 | |
The Ten Plagues reach their crescendo in Parshas Bo. After Pharaoh’s repeated intransigence, he undergoes a series of humbling miraculous plagues that prompt him to evict the Jews from his land. Contact: Website: RabbiWolbe.com; Twitter: @RabbiWolbe; Facebook: Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe; Email: rabbiwolbe@gmail.com. Podcasts Links iOS: This Jewish Life – In-Depth Analysis into Critical Torah Topics; The Jewish […] | |||
| 05 Feb 2017 | Beshalach – Exhilarating Exodus | 01:13:18 | |
Parshas Beshalach begins with the Exodus from Egypt. This begins a spiritual transition for the Jewish people. For the duration of the 40 years in the wilderness, the Jews are going to be eating heavenly manna and drinking water from a rock. This is reflective of their newfound closeness with the Almighty. However, this greatness […] | |||
| 12 Feb 2017 | Yisro – A Kingdom of Priests and A Holy Nation | 00:58:31 | |
Parshas Yisro is a tale of two stories: The first is the episode of Yisro the father in law of Moshe. He abandons his post as the priest of Midian to join the people and provide valuable insight to the judicial process. The latter half of the parsha is dedicated to the Mount Sinai experience […] | |||
| 19 Feb 2017 | Mishpatim – Jewish Jurisprudence | 01:14:24 | |
The Torah is generally perceived as addressing matter of religion and the spiritual. In Parshas Mishpatim we see how it is an exhaustive guide to life in every arena, including governance of civil and criminal law. What are some of the broader themes of Jewish jurisprudence and how can they inform and inspire in modern […] | |||
| 27 Feb 2017 | Terumah – A Dwelling Place for God | 00:55:34 | |
Parshas Terumah records the Almighty’s directive to Moshe to fundraise the raw materials needed to build the Mishkan and its vessels and the instruction to construct them. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Contact: Website: RabbiWolbe.com; Twitter: @RabbiWolbe; Facebook: […] | |||
| 06 Mar 2017 | Tetzaveh – Holy Vestaments | 00:38:38 | |
In Parshas Tetzaveh the Torah outlines the various garments needed for the Kohein Gadol, the instruction to raise the funds for the oil for the Menorah, and the incense Altar. What are some practical lessons we can draw from these special clothes? – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 14 Mar 2017 | Ki Sisa – Tragedy at Sinai | 01:02:11 | |
Parshas Ki Sisa wraps up the instructions regarding the Tabernacle, and then tells the story of perhaps the most shocking and troubling episode in the whole Torah – the Golden Calf episode. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Contact: Website: […] | |||
| 20 Mar 2017 | Vayakhel & Pekudei – Rectifying the Golden Calf | 00:57:39 | |
Parshiyos Vayakhel and Pekudei retell the implementation of the instructions to build the Tabernacle, its vessels and the vestments of the Kohen Gadol given in the Parshiyos of Terumah and Tetzaveh. Why is it necessary to belabor all the details once again? – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 29 Mar 2017 | Vayikra – Sacrificial Repentance | 01:00:04 | |
The Book of Leviticus begins with Parshas Vayikra. In this section we learn about the processes and procedures of many different varieties of sacrifices. What is the reason for sacrifices? Who benefits when a person takes an animal and slaughters it to God? – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 02 Apr 2017 | Tzav – Scaling the Rungs of Greatness | 00:50:38 | |
Parshas Tzav continues the instructions relating to the Tabernacle and its sacrifices. We learn more details regarding some of the sacrifices mentioned earlier and also we are taught about some new sacrifices and procedures. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 05 Apr 2017 | Special Pre-Pesach-Podcast: Explaining Exodus via Genesis and Deuteronomy | 00:34:31 | |
The Exodus is the most oft-referenced event in Jewish life. Twice daily we invoke it in the Shema, and every Shabbos holiday is characterized as “a remembrance for the exodus of Egypt”. Why is the exodus so central to Jewish life? In this podcast we explore that question and many others regarding the Exodus story and […] | |||
| 13 Apr 2017 | Shemini – Following Orders | 00:48:25 | |
After seven days of consecration, Aaron and his sons are promoted to being Kohanim, and after offering the sacrifices of day eight, the glory of God appears in the Tabernacle. Unfortunately, in the zenith of ecstasy, tragedy struck. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 23 Apr 2017 | Tazria & Metzora – Lessons in Purity and Impurity | 01:01:40 | |
Parshas Tazria and Metzora teach about various forms of purity and impurity, how they are contracted, the laws of a person who has them, and how they are remedied. In our podcast, we attempt to understand what purity and impurity mean and what practical lessons we can draw. – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 01 May 2017 | Acharei & Kedoshim – How to be Holy | 00:50:58 | |
This week’s double parshas include perhaps the most famous verse in the Torah, “Thou shall love your fellow as yourself”, along with a bevy of mitzvos geared towards making a person holier and more similar to his Creator. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 07 May 2017 | Emor – Festivals of Hashem | 00:50:27 | |
In Parshas Emor we learn more laws relating to the sanctity of Kohanim; we get a detailed account of the Jewish festivals; and read about the blasphemer and what happened to him. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please […] | |||
| 14 May 2017 | Behar & Bechukosai – Consequences of Closeness | 00:57:59 | |
In the last two parshas of Leviticus we read what a nation subject to God’s dominion looks like. Our life is regulated by God – lending without interest, annulling loans, freeing slaves, returning rightfully purchased property, and ceasing to work every seventh year. We also learn what happens when Jews opt for rejecting the Almighty’s Torah. […] | |||
| 21 May 2017 | Bamidbar – Stature of a Nation | 00:55:16 | |
The book of Numbers begins with a national census conducted by Moshe and Aaron and the heads of the tribes, followed by informing of the encampment structure of the tribes and their flags, and tribe of Levi is counted and their tasks assigned. – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 28 May 2017 | Nasso – Temporary Insanity | 01:02:59 | |
Parshas Nasso is the longest parsha in the Torah, 176 verses. It details the final preparations for when the Tabernacle is erected, the laws of Sotah and Nazir, and the detailing of the offerings of the tribal leaders. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 04 Jun 2017 | Behaaloscha – Trouble in Paradise | 00:57:12 | |
After nearly a year encamped at Sinai, the Jews begin their journey to Canaan in Parshas Behaaloscha. With the Tabernacle completed, the Levites consecrated and readied, the road was paved for their swift entry into the Promised Land. Unfortunately, things did not go as planned. – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 11 Jun 2017 | Shelach – The Sad Saga of the Spies | 00:59:38 | |
In Parshas Shelach we read about the disastrous episode of the Spies. These 12 men were initially great leaders of the people, but their libelous report about the Land condemned the Nation to 40 years of wandering in the Wilderness. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 18 Jun 2017 | Korach – A Cousin’s Rebellion | 01:00:32 | |
Korach was Moshe’s envious first cousin who mounted an insurrection against Moshe and Aaron, even questioning their legitimacy. In this story we learn vital lessons about staying true to the role that the Almighty prepares for us and the importance of maintaining peace. – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 25 Jun 2017 | Chukas -Repentance of the Red Heifer | 01:04:33 | |
Parshas Chukas tells of the red heifer as an atonement from contamination of the dead. What is the meaning behind it and how does it relate to the Golden Calf? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider making […] | |||
| 02 Jul 2017 | Balak – Greatness Gone Awry | 00:54:01 | |
Bilaam was a gifted prophet on par with Moshe. Sadly, he chose to direct his powers towards a life of evil. In Parshas Balak, Bilaam is hired to curse the Jewish people, but it does not go as planned. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 10 Jul 2017 | Pinchas – Legacies of Great Leaders | 00:59:18 | |
Pinchas was a great hero who acted out of vengeance for God. In this Parsha, we read about the plaudits for his heroism, the Jews are counted again, a knotty inheritance question is settled, Moshe asked for a successor, and we learn about many sacrifices. – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 16 Jul 2017 | Mattos & Masei – Promised Land Pending | 00:57:23 | |
The final two parshiyos of the Book of Numbers (Bamidbar) tell the laws and happenings leading up to the conquest of Canaan (Israel). We are taught the laws of vows, then a war is fought and its booty is divided, and the tribes of Gad and Reuven agree to a pact. – – – – […] | |||
| 23 Jul 2017 | Devarim – Moshe’s Speech | 00:50:06 | |
Parshas Devarim, and indeed the Book of Devarim, begins with a lengthy speech from Moshe to the nation about a month before his death. In it he subtly criticizes them regarding all the nation’s misdeeds over the duration of the 40 years in the Wilderness. – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 30 Jul 2017 | Va’Eschanan – Preparing the Nation | 01:09:13 | |
Parshas Vaeschanan continues where Parshas Devarim left off. Moshe has about a month left to speak to the nation and prepare them for the challenges awaiting them in Canaan. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider making a […] | |||
| 06 Aug 2017 | Eikev – A Unique Path to Greatness | 00:31:41 | |
Parshas Eikev continues Moshe’s grand Speech to the Nation. In it we learn about how Torah is food for life, and how to love, and about reward and punishment. Please note this class was originally recorded in 2016 and please forgive me if the audio quality is a bit sub par. – – – – – […] | |||
| 13 Aug 2017 | Re’eh – An Attitudinal Shift | 00:56:29 | |
Parshas Re’eh marks a transition in Devarim. After four sections of Moshe inspiring the nation ahead of his death and their entrance to Israel, the nation is instructed with mitzvos related to their upcoming new world. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 20 Aug 2017 | Shoftim – Righteous Justice | 01:03:00 | |
In Parshas Shoftim we learn about enactment of judges and a judicial system in Israel. We also learn about the Sanhedrin, its history, and its authority, and what happens when fallible human courts make blunders. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 27 Aug 2017 | Ki Seitzei – Lessons for Living (Recorded Amid Hurricane Harvey) | 00:56:04 | |
Though Hurricane Harvey is slamming the Houston area, flooding its highways, homes, and business, inundating its rivers and bayous, and causing catastrophic destruction and devastation, at TORCH the Torah study goes on. Sadly, our TORCH Centre is currently under several feet of water Help TORCH rebuild after Harvey by visiting https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you! Contact: Website: RabbiWolbe.com; Twitter: @RabbiWolbe; […] | |||
| 05 Sep 2017 | Ki Savo – Consequences of Closeness | 00:54:49 | |
A central theme of Parshas Ki Savo is the idea that we are the Chosen People of God. Why were we chosen, what are we chosen for, and what are the benefits and consequences of being chosen? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 10 Sep 2017 | Nitzavim & Vayeilech – Eternal Exhortations | 01:02:14 | |
In the last few days of Moshe’s life, he gathers the entire nation, men women and children, and presents to them his final, departing message. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider making a donation to help fund […] | |||
| 17 Sep 2017 | Ha’azinu – The Song of History | 01:06:17 | |
On the final day of his life, Moshe gathers the nation and sketches out the cycles of history both past and future in a poetic, song like way, all the while providing indispensable lessons. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 19 Sep 2017 | The Core Theme of Rosh Hashana | 00:35:44 | |
Rosh Hashana is the anniversary of the creation of man. It is also the Day of Judgement. What are the various elements and themes of the day and how do they interrelate? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please […] | |||
| 25 Sep 2017 | Maximizing Yom Kippur | 00:57:09 | |
Yom Kippur is associated with prayer and liturgy that we may not understand, very long services and, of course, fasting. Unfortunately, most people are unaware of the power, meaning and opportunity of the day. In this podcast we go back to the very first Yom Kippur. What happened on that day and how is it […] | |||
| 02 Oct 2017 | Vezos HaBracha – A Torah Retrospect (Speech at Celebration of Completion of the Torah) | 00:18:42 | |
Over the past year we have studied the entire Torah, the five books of Moshe. In this podcast, we try to identify the underlying theme that strings throughout the Torah. What is the overarching theme of Torah and what ought we to take away from the experience of studying it? – – – – – […] | |||
| 10 Oct 2017 | Bereishis – Adam and the Fruit Fly | 00:23:01 | |
Welcome to Year 2 of the Parsha Podcast. This year’s cycle will differ from last year’s in that we will only pick an angle or an idea from the parsha but will not give a comprehensive overview of the parsha as we did last year. However, last year’s episode [link HERE] will still be available […] | |||
| 15 Oct 2017 | Noach – Lessons from an Enigma | 00:13:23 | |
For last year’s podcast on Parshas Noach click HERE. In this podcast we draw three lessons from the Torah’s chracter assesments of Noah. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider making a donation to help fund our Jewish […] | |||
| 23 Oct 2017 | Lech Lecha – (Rebroadcast + New Podcast: Eternal Ethics) | 01:13:28 | |
Begining this week, we will, God-willing, upload two weekly Parsha Podcast episodes, the one orginally recorded last year on the whole Parsha and a shorter, orginal one on a specific point on the parsha that I find noteworthy. (Thank you Howard Schreiber for the suggestion.) Also, I am pleased to announce the launching of a brand […] | |||
| 26 Oct 2017 | Lech Lecha – The Essence of Bris Milah (Circumcision) | 00:22:06 | |
The mitzvah of Bris Milah (circumcision) is unique of several fronts. It is the first mitzvah given to Abraham and the first done to a Jewish child; it is the mark of the Jewish fraternity; and the Talmud declares that is emblematic of all the mitzvos combined. What is the meaning behind this enigmatic mitzvah? – […] | |||
| 29 Oct 2017 | Vayeira – Reconciling Kindness and Child-Sacrifice (Rebroadcast) | 01:20:04 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Kindness Superseding Prophecy – [0:00] Deconstructing Abraham’s Kindness with the Three Strangers – [9:57] Abraham’s Intercession on Behalf of Sodom – [25:23] Abraham’s Unsuccessful Kindnesses: How Kindness and Faith are Correlated and How Lot’s Kindness differed from Abraham’s – […] | |||
| 03 Nov 2017 | Vayeira – Finishing the Job | 00:19:33 | |
The most difficult test of Abraham’s Ten Tests was the commandment to sacrifice Isaac for God. Rashi comments that had Abraham failed in his test, the other nine would be rendered non substantive. Why does Abraham need to be perfect for his tests to have value and what lessons can we draw from this teaching? […] | |||
| 05 Nov 2017 | Chayei Sarah – Unselfish Spouses (Rebroadcast) | 01:08:38 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: The Death, Bereavment and Burial of Sarah – [0:00] The Cave of the Machpelah – [14:23] Eliezer’s Oath, Eligibility Test for a prospective Spouse for Isaac– [23:26] Eliezer’s Encounter with Lavan and Rebecca’s family and the Corruptive […] | |||
| 09 Nov 2017 | Chayei Sarah – The Best Kind of Kindness | 00:17:33 | |
In Parshas Chayei Sarah, Eliezer devises a test to determine the suitability of a prospective spouse for Isaac that teaches us about marital compatibility and about a special kind of kindness. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider […] | |||
| 12 Nov 2017 | Toldos – Intrauterine Cosmic Struggle (Rebroadcast) | 01:11:02 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Praying As Response to Infertility – [0:00] God Answers Isaac’s Prayer – [4:52] Jacob and Esau intrauterine Struggling; Esau Pining for Idolatry; The Cosmic Struggle between the Two Worlds – [10:16] Jacob Seizing the Ankle of Esau and their Childhood; Isaac’s […] | |||
| 15 Nov 2017 | Toldos – Bad Influences | 00:15:16 | |
Rebecca was surrounded by bad influences. Her father, brother and community were all sinners. How did she manage to not learn from their ways and what can we learn from this? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider […] | |||
| 19 Nov 2017 | Vayeitzei – Nation Building (Rebroadcast) | 00:55:30 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Jacob’s Dream – [0:00] Jacob’s Ladder – [9:10] Jacob’s Pledge compared to God’s Promise – [13:59] On the Meaning of Stones in the Parsha; The Power of Inspiration – [19:00] Jacob Meets Rachel – [22:54] Seven Years in Exchange […] | |||
| 22 Nov 2017 | Vayeitzei – Manipulating Willpower | 00:23:22 | |
In our parsha, Jacob and his wives are faced with a very difficult test, and the Torah describes a very unique approach that they used when confronting the dilemma. In this podcast, we will deconstruct their methodology and draw from it a valuable principle that can help us in our challenges today. – – – […] | |||
| 26 Nov 2017 | Vayishlach – Twin Tussles (Rebroadcast) | 01:09:45 | |
Telling the story of this week’s parsha while gleaning insights and lessons from it. The topics discussed in this episode: Jacob’s Preparation for the Encounter with Esau – [0:00] Jacob’s Fears: Of Loss of Merits, Of Esau and Of Esau’s “Brotherly Love” – [9:09] The Bribe – [13:29] Jacob Hid Dina to Shield her from Esau – [16:06] […] | |||
| 29 Nov 2017 | Vayishlach – Your Money or Your Life | 00:24:38 | |
In our parsha, Jacob was stranded alone and partook in a fight to the death with the angel of Esau for an entire night. Quoting the Talmud, Rashi reveals that the reason why Jacob was alone was that he went to retrieve a few small jugs. The Talmud continues that from this episode we see […] | |||
| 03 Dec 2017 | Vayeishev – Strange Paths to Redemption (Rebroadcast) | 01:05:51 | |
Parshas Vayeishev marks the dramatic descent of Joseph, from Jacob’s favorite son to alleged attempted rapist languishing in an Egyptian prison. In retrospect, this Parsha tells the beginning of the founding of the Jewish nation and the back story to the nation’s most prestigious family. The topics discussed in this episode: Jacob’s Favoritism towards Joseph – […] | |||
| 06 Dec 2017 | Vayeishev – Death by Unnatural Means | 00:26:01 | |
In Parshas Vayeishev, the conflict between Joseph and his brothers reaches the tipping point when they plot to kill him. In the end, Reuben saves Joseph by successfully lobbying that he be thrown into a pit full of dangerous animals. Why did the brothers want to kill Joseph, how did Reuben convince them not to, […] | |||
| 10 Dec 2017 | Mikeitz – From Prisoner to Viceroy (Rebroadcast) | 00:51:52 | |
Parshas Mikeitz tells the dramatic transformation of Joseph from lowly prisoner to exalted viceroy of Egypt, his oversight of Egyptian preparation for famine and how he related to his brothers who sought grain. The topics discussed in this episode: Joseph’s Ascension to grandeur – [0:00]; Joseph’s Suggestion: Seek a wise person – [10:08]; Joseph enshrined as viceroy, implements […] | |||
| 13 Dec 2017 | Chanukah – Small Miracles | 00:24:49 | |
When reading about the story and the miracles of Chanukah, the most prominent and memorable one seems to be the military victory of a small ragtag guerrilla army over the mighty Greeks. Yet the mitzvah commemorating the events revolves around the miracle of the oil, a seemingly insignificant miracle in comparison. In this podcast, we offer 3 […] | |||
| 17 Dec 2017 | Vayigash – A Family Descends (Rebroadcast) | 00:50:37 | |
Parshas Vayigash begins with Joseph’s dramatic revelation to his brothers and ends with the descent of Jacob and his descendents to Egypt, where they will spend the next several hundred years burgeoning into a great nation. The topics discussed in this episode: Joseph reveals his True Identity – [0:00]; The Brothers Silence in the Face […] | |||
| 20 Dec 2017 | Vayigash – The Chariot of God | 00:25:52 | |
This week’s parsha recounts the tale of how after decades of separation, Jacob is finally reunited with Joseph. But when they finally meet something odd happens. While Joseph responds to the moment emotionally, by falling on his father’s shoulder and weeping, Jacob is stoic. Our sages tell us that he was reciting the Shema prayer […] | |||
| 24 Dec 2017 | Vayechi – Deathbed Priorities (Rebroadcast) | 00:58:32 | |
Parshas Vayrchi is oriented around the illness and death of Jacob. The Jewish family is growing and establishing roots in Egypt. Their spiritual leader and guide is going to pass, and they will ease into Egyptian life, culminating in their eventual enslavement. In his waning moments, Jacob gathers his children, blesses them, and provides them […] | |||
| 27 Dec 2017 | Vayechi – Spiritual Diagnostician (Recorded Live in Harrisburg, PA) | 00:56:41 | |
In his last act, Jacob gathers his sons and offers each of the twelve a blessing. To us, however, it does not seem that the first three received a blessing at all. Reuben was castigated for being impetuous and consequently he was stripped of his role as king and priest, and Simon and Levi were reprimanded […] | |||
| 31 Dec 2017 | Shemos – The Iron Crucible (Rebroadcast) | 00:56:46 | |
The book of Exodus begins with the enslavement of the Jewish people in Egypt. Interestingly, when Abraham was selected to be the father of the Chosen People he was informed that his descendents will be subject to severe national suffering in a foreign land.Seemingly, the enslavement was an ideal, and necessary, component of becoming God’s […] | |||
| 07 Jan 2018 | Vaeira – Educational Plagues (Rebroadcast) | 01:00:35 | |
In Parshas Vaeira we see the humbling of Pharaoh and the Egyptians. We learn about the first seven of the Ten Plagues and their purpose and significance. More broadly, we delve into the objective of the Exodus at large. The topics discussed in this episode: Introduction to the Plagues and Exodus: The various Names of […] | |||
| 10 Jan 2018 | Vaeira – Tangible Fear of God | 00:17:44 | |
Before the seventh and final plague of the parsha, Moshe warns the Egyptians about the forthcoming hail of fire-and-ice. Some of the Egyptians prudently move all their possessions to safety, while others leave them out. The Torah’s labeling of these people and their choices provide us with valuable lessons. – – – – – – […] | |||
| 14 Jan 2018 | Bo – Climactic Exodus (Rebroadcast) | 01:13:34 | |
The Ten Plagues reach their crescendo in Parshas Bo. After Pharaoh’s repeated intransigence, he undergoes a series of humbling miraculous plagues that prompt him to evict the Jews from his land. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring […] | |||
| 17 Jan 2018 | Bo – Ramban’s Critical Comment | 00:20:29 | |
In Parshas Bo the Exodus reaches its climax with the final 3 of the Ten Plagues. The Exodus is much more than being freed from slavery, it is the founding of the nation and the building of the spiritual makeup of the people. In this podcast we go through a critical comment from the Ramban […] | |||
| 21 Jan 2018 | Beshalach – Exhilarating Exodus (Rebroadcast) | 01:13:18 | |
Parshas Beshalach begins with the Exodus from Egypt. This begins a spiritual transition for the Jewish people. For the duration of the 40 years in the wilderness, the Jews are going to be eating heavenly manna and drinking water from a rock. This is reflective of their newfound closeness with the Almighty. However, this greatness […] | |||
| 24 Jan 2018 | Beshalach – The Divine Doctor | 00:18:51 | |
In this week’s parsha the Torah gives us a general characterization of mitzvos as medicine prescribed by God to heal our soul. What does that mean and how does it coexist with other characterizations of mitzvos? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 28 Jan 2018 | Yisro – A Kingdom of Priests and A Holy Nation (Rebroadcast) | 00:58:31 | |
Parshas Yisro is a tale of two stories: The first is the episode of Yisro the father in law of Moshe. He abandons his post as the priest of Midian to join the people and provide valuable insight to the judicial process. The latter half of the parsha is dedicated to the Mount Sinai experience […] | |||
| 31 Jan 2018 | Yisro – The Key to Changing the World | 00:46:35 | |
There is a learnable quality the underpins every transformational change and improvement that humanity has achieved. It is what separates the people who are inspired to change and actually implement grand ideas from the common folk who do not influence the world for the better. In Parshas Yisro we learn that secret. – – – – […] | |||
| 04 Feb 2018 | Mishpatim – Jewish Jurisprudence (Rebroadcast) | 01:14:24 | |
The Torah is generally perceived as addressing matter of religion and the spiritual. In Parshas Mishpatim we see how it is an exhaustive guide to life in every arena, including governance of civil and criminal law. What are some of the broader themes of Jewish jurisprudence and how can they inform and inspire in modern […] | |||
| 07 Feb 2018 | Mishpatim – Preconditions of Prayer | 00:13:27 | |
Amid a parsha replete with all kinds of interpersonal mitzvos, we find a transformational insight with respect to prayer. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help fund our Jewish […] | |||
| 11 Feb 2018 | Terumah – A Dwelling Place for God (Rebroadcast) | 00:55:34 | |
Parshas Terumah records the Almighty’s directive to Moshe to fundraise the raw materials needed to build the Mishkan and its vessels and the instruction to construct them. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider sponsoring a podcast by […] | |||
| 14 Feb 2018 | Terumah – The Ark of Torah | 00:20:06 | |
This parsha kickstart several Torah sections outlining the structure and the vessels of the mishkan, the Tabernacle. The Talmud brings these ideas closer to our understanding by linking the vessels of the Tabernacle to the greatest arenas of human achievements. The Ark is symbolic of Torah greatness. In this podcast we parse out this idea. […] | |||
| 18 Feb 2018 | Tetzaveh – Holy Vestaments (Rebroadcast) | 00:38:38 | |
In Parshas Tetzaveh the Torah outlines the various garments needed for the Kohein Gadol, the instruction to raise the funds for the oil for the Menorah, and the incense Altar. What are some practical lessons we can draw from these special clothes? – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 22 Feb 2018 | Purim – Love-Inducing Miracles | 00:13:52 | |
The Talmud (Shabbos 88a) teaches that in the aftermath of the Purim miracles the Jewish people re-accepted the Torah out of love. What was so special about the miracles of Purim that fostered this profound love and what lessons can we learn from it? – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 25 Feb 2018 | Ki Sisa – Tragedy at Sinai (Rebroadcast) | 01:01:07 | |
Parshas Ki Sisa wraps up the instructions regarding the Tabernacle, and then tells the story of perhaps the most shocking and troubling episode in the whole Torah – the Golden Calf episode. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – Please consider […] | |||
| 28 Feb 2018 | Purim – A Mitzvah to get Drunk | 00:13:21 | |
Besides the four mitzvos of the day, the Talmud states that a person has to get drunk on Purim “until he does not know the difference between Haman is cursed and Mordechai is blessed”. What is the meaning behind this bizarre practice? – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 04 Mar 2018 | Vayakhel & Pekudei – Rectifying the Golden Calf (Rebroadcast) | 00:57:39 | |
Parshiyos Vayakhel and Pekudei retell the implementation of the instructions to build the Tabernacle, its vessels and the vestments of the Kohen Gadol given in the Parshiyos of Terumah and Tetzaveh. Why is it necessary to belabor all the details once again? – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 07 Mar 2018 | Vayakhel & Pekudei – Blundering to Greatness | 00:17:37 | |
In this week’s double parsha we observe something unusual. Unlike its tendency to be concise and succinct and mince words, the Torah finds it necessary to exhaustively detail the implementation of the building of the Mishkan when a few shorts verses would suffice. In this podcast we propose an answer. – – – – – […] | |||
| 11 Mar 2018 | Vayikra – Sacrificial Repentance (Rebroadcast) | 00:53:51 | |
The Book of Leviticus begins with Parshas Vayikra. In this section we learn about the processes and procedures of many different varieties of sacrifices. What is the reason for sacrifices? Who benefits when a person takes an animal and slaughters it to God? – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 18 Mar 2018 | Tzav – Scaling the Rungs of Greatness (Rebroadcast) | 00:50:38 | |
Parshas Tzav continues the instructions relating to the Tabernacle and its sacrifices. We learn more details regarding some of the sacrifices mentioned earlier and also we are taught about some new sacrifices and procedures. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 14 Mar 2018 | How to be a Great Leader (and Spouse) – Recorded Live at the Kotel in Jerusalem | 00:21:21 | |
In the last portions of Exodus, the Torah details the incredible fundraising efforts to assemble the materials needed to build the Mishkan. It records that the nesi’im, the presidents of the tribes, donated the stones for the Kohein Gadol’s Choshen and Ephod, Breastplate and apron-like garment. Rashi notes that the Torah is also conveying a veiled criticism about these people […] | |||
| 25 Mar 2018 | Shemini – Following Orders (Rebroadcast) | 00:48:25 | |
After seven days of consecration, Aaron and his sons are promoted to being Kohanim, and after offering the sacrifices of day eight, the glory of God appears in the Tabernacle. Unfortunately, in the zenith of ecstasy, tragedy struck. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 27 Mar 2018 | Pesach: A Primer | 00:58:01 | |
Pesach marks the foundational event of our nation’s history. The Exodus that happened on the days of Pesach is the rationale of the Jewish holidays nad festivals, including the weekly Shabbos, and is invoked in many mitzvos. In this podcast we explore the story of Pesach and discover what it says about what we stand […] | |||
| 12 Apr 2018 | Shemini – Aaron’s Stoicism | 00:23:32 | |
On the eighth day of the inauguration of the Mishkan, amid the joy and jubilation and ecstasy of having God dwell among the nation, tragedy and disaster strikes when the two sons of Aaron die suddenly. As a reward for not questioning God, Aaron is granted a Mosaic prophecy alone. How does Aaron’s stoicism fit […] | |||
| 15 Apr 2018 | Tazria & Metzora – Lessons in Purity and Impurity (Rebroadcast) | 01:01:40 | |
Parshas Tazria and Metzora teach about various forms of purity and impurity, how they are contracted, the laws of a person who has them, and how they are remedied. In our podcast, we attempt to understand what purity and impurity mean and what practical lessons we can draw. – – – – – – – […] | |||
| 18 Apr 2018 | Tzaria & Metzora – A Diamond’s Blemish | 00:18:57 | |
These Torah portions in the middle of Leviticus seem foreign to modern ears and sentiments. In this podcast we offer a common theme for the laws of kosher, purity and impurity, and tzaraas (leprosy) that makes them more relatable and relevant. – – – – – – – – – – – – – – – […] | |||
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