Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores ten powerful dimensions of the shofar, based on the teachings of Rav Saadia Gaon. He begins with the very pattern of the shofar sounds themselves: the firm tekiah, the broken shevarim, the shattered teruah, and finally another strong tekiah. This sequence reflects the rhythm of human life. We experience times of confidence, periods of brokenness, and moments when we feel shattered—but we can become whole again. The shofar tells us that this cycle is not a failure; it is part of the journey Hashem created for us. 

The first reasons for the shofar focus on our relationship with Hashem. It coronates Hashem as our personal King, awakens us to teshuvah, and recalls the revelation at Mount Sinai, when every Jewish soul experienced extraordinary closeness and clarity. The shofar also echoes the calls of the prophets, whose blasts were designed to wake the Jewish people from spiritual complacency. Hearing it should therefore never be passive; it is meant to awaken us and make the kingship of Hashem real in our lives.  

Other meanings connect the shofar to the destruction and future rebuilding of the Temple, the binding of Isaac, awe and humility, and the Day of Judgment. The Akeidah represents absolute dedication to Hashem, while the shofar’s call to humility reminds us that although we are tiny in comparison with the universe, Hashem still desires a personal relationship with each of us. On Rosh Hashanah, we must also prepare our case before the heavenly Judge: Why should Hashem grant us another year, and what will we do differently with the life and blessings He gives us? 
  

The final themes look toward redemption: the ingathering of the exiles and the resurrection of the dead will also be accompanied by the shofar. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that prayer itself can happen anywhere—not only in a synagogue or with a siddur. Prayer means opening the heart and speaking directly with Hashem, whether in Houston, on the highway, at a red light, or in a doctor’s waiting room. The shofar ultimately becomes a form of communication beyond words—a spiritual “send button” carrying our deepest message to Hashem.   

Rabbi Wolbe concludes by encouraging listeners to prepare before the shofar is blown. Close your eyes, stop everything else, and ask: What is my message to Hashem? Perhaps it is simply, “I want to be closer to You. Help me remove the barriers and limitations that keep me from growing.”
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This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky Botvin
The Episode is dedicated in honor of Ziggy Gruber

Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 8, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 9, 2026
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Listen, Subscribe & Share: 

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! 

Share your questions at [email protected] or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  
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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: [email protected]

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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 More
Other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodes
• 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv

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Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Shofar, #RoshHashanah, #Teshuvah, #HighHolidays, #Prayer, #SpiritualGrowth

Unlock the keys to profound self-transformation and introspection during the sacred month of Elul, as we navigate the powerful teachings of the Torah portion Shoftim. In today's episode of Shofar Inspiration, we promise to equip you with the wisdom of our sages, guiding you to become both the judge and the officer of your own life. Learn how to set high standards for yourself and enforce them, ensuring that your actions align with your true potential for meaningful progress.

As we journey through the 30 days leading up to Rosh Hashanah, take this opportunity to reflect on your personal growth and set impactful resolutions for the year ahead. With practical advice and inspiring insights, this episode is your gateway to harnessing the spirit of Elul for lasting self-improvement and spiritual elevation. Don’t miss this transformative episode that will help you achieve your aspirations and embrace an extraordinary month of inspiration and growth.
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Recorded from a live audience presentation in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on September 5, 2024.
Released as Podcast on September 6, 2024
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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!
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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
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EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
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Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
 

Get ready to traverse the spiritual depths of the Mitzvah of shofar in our newest podcast episode. You're about to discover how the mysterious sound of the shofar serves as a profound and heartfelt message to the divine, akin to a spiritual email. We discuss the importance of meditation as a preparatory practice before the shofar is blown, which aids in receiving God's message with clarity and depth.

Let's unravel the fascinating Jewish custom of blowing the shofar on the 29th day of Elul, a strategy to keep the Satan off-balance, and deepen your understanding of this ritual. We'll also touch upon the coronation of God as the King of the universe, a declaration announced by the sounding of the shofar. By the end of this episode, you'll have a refreshed perspective on this powerful tradition and its potential to bring you closer to God. So, come and join us on this enlightening journey as we explore these exciting aspects of spiritual practice.

This episode (#235) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Ed Steiner!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 15, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 15, 2023

Unlock the enigma of peace and its profound significance during the 10 days of repentance in Jewish faith, as we journey together through this enlightening topic. We promise you an intriguing exploration of the angel Safriel, whose numerical value equals HA-Shalom, a term that translates to THE Peace, and the powerful role peace plays in our lives, even going as far as inviting God into our lives.

Venture into the second half of our episode where we decode the impact of our thoughts, especially the good ones, on shaping our life in the year ahead. We engage in a riveting discourse on the internal friction between our soul and physical desires, and how discord between the two can lead to chaos, emphasizing the need for harmony for peace of mind. Drawing from a poignant real-life narrative, we illuminate the transformative influence of peace and unity. Don't miss out on this compelling discourse on peace, unity, good thoughts, and their potential to steer us towards a life of joy and prosperity.

This episode (#234) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Zehava Wolbe!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 15, 2023

Prepare to embark on a transformative journey as we unravel the powerful symbolism of Tashlich on Rosh Hashanah. This episode promises to enrich your understanding of this profound ritual, demonstrating how our actions on this holy day of judgment ripple throughout our coming year. We delve into the spiritual significance of casting our sins into a body of water, illustrating how this act of surrender and humility ushers us closer to Hashem.

As we journey further, we draw wisdom from the story of Rothschild, underlining the importance of acknowledging the divine power that steers our lives. Our exploration then leads us to the relationship between Shabbos and Tashlich, underpinned by the compelling story of Bill Gates and the Shomer Shabbos speaker. This episode will challenge you to relinquish control, strip away arrogance, and rekindle a deeper connection with the Almighty. So come, join us on this enlightening journey and let it inspire a more meaningful observance of Rosh Hashanah.

This episode (#233) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Jordan & Robin Davis!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 14, 2023

Step into the new year with wisdom gleaned from the ancient traditions of Rosh Hashanah as we uncover the rich symbolisms behind the holy celebration. We promise a journey packed with insights that will not only deepen your understanding of the customs but also inspire you to apply these meaningful traditions to your everyday life. We unwrap the Talmudic origins of symbolic foods like apples dipped in honey, beets, and more, and how they carry a profound message of sweetness and sin eradication.

Beyond the symbolic foods, we explore the tradition of refraining from sleep during Rosh Hashanah and its potential influence on the year to come. The episode shines a light on how our behaviors and emotions on this day can reverberate through the forthcoming 365 days. We appreciate the wisdom of our sages, the need to avoid bitterness, and the importance of positive attributes. So, lend us your ears, and let us step together into a new year filled with kindness, positivity, and abundant blessings. Happy listening, and here's to an incredible Rosh Hashanah and an even better year ahead.

 This episode (#232) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Peter & Becky Botvin!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 12, 2023

Unlock the profound mysteries of Teshuvah, Judaism's unique process of repentance, and immerse yourself in a spiritual journey that reaches as high as the heavenly throne of the Almighty. We promise to share insights about Moses' sublime encounter with ministering angels, praising various aspects of Judaism, and explore why Teshuvah sat at the pinnacle of these praises. You'll comprehend how Teshuvah establishes a direct connection with Hashem, allowing us to return to our roots and recognize Hashem's universal reign.

Imagine the transformative power of honey and how it coleptelt changes the constitution of whatever stays in it for an extended period of time. That's the incredible influence Torah has on those who learn it. We discuss this transformation, paralleling the sweet changes with the potential of Teshuvah to elevate one's connection to Hashem. Hear a touching testimony of physical healing through immersion in Torah and the life-changing impact it can have on you.

The path to repentance might be arduous, but the rewards are immense. We are guided through the four steps of repentance, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging one's wrongdoing and seeking forgiveness from those affected. We learn from the narrative of Rebi Elazar Ben Durdia, a powerful illustration of veering off the path and the journey to restore a close relationship with God. We also discuss the consequences of speaking Lashon Hara about the land of Israel and how Teshuvah can restore broken connections. Prepare to discover how true repentance can enhance your relationships with Hashem and those around you, and the transformative power it can bring into your life.

 This episode (#231) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Dr. Leonard Goldberg!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to an online audience (Netiv) on September 10, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 12, 2023

Embark on an enlightening journey as we unravel the profound impact of repentance on our personal lives and relationships. We promise, by the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of the transformative power of seeking forgiveness. We share the wisdom and insights of the Talmud, shedding light on how making amends with strained relationships not only brings us closer to the ones we love but can even contribute to our longevity.

We dive headfirst into the challenges of seeking forgiveness, especially when the other party is unwilling or is no longer with us. We share the reassuring notion that a simple 'I'm sorry' can bring about immense healing and is even regarded as a remarkably good deed by the Almighty. Our conversation further delves into the concept of private repentance. Regardless of whether our sins are public or private, we can always lean on Hashem for forgiveness. Repentance, we points out, is so powerful it's akin to offering a sacrifice to the Almighty and can lead to a longer life. So join us in this enlightening discourse on navigating strained relationships, seeking forgiveness, and tapping into the life-changing power of repentance.

This episode (#227) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Dr. Leonard & June Goldberg!

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to [email protected]

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on September 1, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 4, 2023

Prepare to reset and reform your life as we reflect on Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and the profound impact of small changes. By tuning in, you will gain a deeper understanding of the shofar's symbolism, the transformative power of small adjustments, and the opportunities inherent in a fresh start. Our conversation delves into the concept of free will, the infinite possibilities that lie before us, and the unique significance of Rosh Hashanah for the Jewish people.

We journey through the holy rituals of the day, revisiting the mitzvah of the shofar, an intriguing connection to Joseph's miraculous linguistic abilities, and the ancestral merit embedded in our spiritual DNA. By reflecting on the virtues of Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, we explore how we can muster their strength to approach God. Additionally, we dive into the idea of taking bold action, the four demands of employment, and the value of the Torah passed down from our ancestors.

In this episode, we also delve into the meta-concept of blowing the shofar on Rosh Hashanah and its relation to the qualities of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob embedded in each of us. We conclude with a powerful examination of the story of the ram that was sacrificed instead of Isaac and the profound teachings on the source of the shofar's blast at Sinai. So, join us on this enlightening journey and gain a fresh perspective on Rosh Hashanah and its life-changing significance in our lives.

Featured in this episode: Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH Podcast Extraordinaire, Dan Kullman.

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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• 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

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/donate. 
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B  on September 5,  2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 7,  2023

Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the Torah’s description of an unnamed mitzvah that is “very close to you, in your mouth and in your heart.” Following the Ramban, he explains that this refers to Teshuvah. Repentance is not reserved for unusually righteous people, nor can a person become too distant for Hashem to want him back. Whatever someone’s history, mistakes, or background, the path of return remains open.

The extraordinary accessibility of Teshuvah is part of its beauty. A Jew does not need an intermediary to obtain forgiveness. There is no magical formula and no other person who must atone on our behalf. We speak directly to Hashem. The Torah describes Teshuvah as being “in your mouth and in your heart”: use your words, awaken your heart, acknowledge what needs to change, and restore the relationship with the Creator who is waiting to hear from you.

Rabbi Wolbe then shares a Hasidic insight into the word “zot”—“this”—whose numerical value is 408. In the High Holiday prayers, three forces are identified as having the power to remove an evil decree: Teshuvah, Tefillah, and Tzedakah—repentance, prayer, and charity. The traditional words associated with them—fasting, voice, and money—also total 408. Together they provide a practical model for change: stop the behavior that distances us from Hashem, raise our voice in sincere prayer, and give generously of what we have.

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This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky Botvin
This Episode is dedicated in Honor of Moshe Witto

Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 6, 2025
_____________
Listen, Subscribe & Share: 

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! 

Share your questions at [email protected] 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: [email protected]

_____________

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 More
Other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodes
• 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 http://podcast.torchweb.orgv

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Keywords:

#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #Elul, #RoshHashanah, #YomKippur, #HighHolidays, #Teshuvah, #Shofar, #40days