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In this inspiring episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the remarkable story of Noach and the deeper meaning of righteousness, leadership, and faith. The Torah introduces Noach as a righteous and perfect man in his generation, yet our sages offer differing interpretations of his greatness. Why would anyone question the righteousness of someone whom the Torah itself praises? Rabbi Wolbe explains that true greatness is measured not only by personal spiritual accomplishments but also by our willingness to take responsibility for others. While Noach preserved his righteousness amid a corrupt generation, Avraham and Moshe demonstrated an additional dimension of leadership: actively caring for, uplifting, and transforming the people around them. The lesson is profound: Our greatest legacy is not what we accumulate, but the good deeds we perform and the lives we elevate.
Drawing on the extraordinary teachings of Rabbi Shimon Schwab, Rabbi Wolbe uncovers a revolutionary understanding of emunah (faith). How could Noach, who devoted 120 years to constructing the ark in obedience to Hashem, be described by Rashi as someone of limited faith? The answer reveals that emunah is far more than intellectually believing that something will happen. Emunah is an active, creative force that helps bring potential into reality. Rabbi Wolbe connects this idea to Mordechai raising Esther, the miraculous blessings of Shemitah, and the teachings of the Noam Elimelech. He explains that Noach's hesitation was not necessarily rooted in doubt, but in his reluctance to contribute spiritually to the destruction of his generation. Nevertheless, our responsibility is to do what Hashem asks and trust Him with the outcome.
The episode then turns this powerful lesson into practical guidance for everyday life. How often do we limit our own possibilities by convincing ourselves that a job opportunity, ambitious project, meaningful relationship, or personal goal is beyond our reach? Through relatable examples of successful entrepreneurs and visionaries, Rabbi Wolbe challenges listeners to replace self-defeating assumptions with courageous faith and meaningful action. As he memorably declares, “Faith it till you make it!” With Emunah, determination, and Hashem's blessing, we can accomplish far more than we imagine.
Finally, Rabbi Wolbe applies this understanding of Emunah to parenting, family life, and personal leadership. Just as Mordechai nurtured Esther's potential, parents have a precious and limited opportunity to cultivate their children's unique greatness. Rather than becoming consumed by small frustrations and constant corrections, parents should create homes filled with joy, warmth, encouragement, and emotional security. The episode concludes with a beautiful reminder that we can learn from Noach's righteousness, Avraham's outreach, and Moshe's compassionate leadership. True Jewish greatness combines personal growth, unwavering faith, and genuine concern for others, while remembering that healthy solitude strengthens our ability to serve the people around us.
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This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman
Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 14, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 15, 2026
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Subscribe:
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: [email protected]
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Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
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Keywords:
#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Bereishis, #Bereshit, #ParshaReview, #WeeklyParsha, #Noach, #Emunah, #FaithItTillYouMakeIt, #PowerOfFaith, #FaithInHashem, #TrustInGod, #BelieveInYourself, #FaithAndAction, #SpiritualGrowth, #JewishFaith, #Bitachon
In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Wolbe explores Parshas Noach, focusing on Noah’s righteousness, the flood, and the ark’s survival (Genesis 7:23). He delves into Rashi’s comment about Noah’s lion bite, Talmudic insights on divine image and heavenly intent, and the generational impact of biblical figures. Key themes include:
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This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman
Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 22, 2025
_____________
Subscribe:
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: [email protected]
_____________
Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Noah, #Ark, #Animals, #Shabbos, #Review, #Abraham, #Isaac, #Jacob, #Sarah, #Rebecca, #Rachel, #Leah
Discover the hidden messages in your everyday life and unlock a deeper connection with the divine. Our latest episode promises to transform your understanding of the seemingly mundane experiences that surround you. By exploring the timeless story of Noach through Rashi's insightful lens, we uncover the profound purpose behind God's detailed instructions for the ark, and how they served as a warning and an opportunity for humanity's repentance. This narrative is not just a distant biblical tale, but a mirror reflecting the potential for change and redemption in our own lives today.
We also share an inspiring story from the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, which sheds light on how God communicates with us through both challenges and acts of kindness. This episode invites you to open your eyes and ears to these divine signals, encouraging you to nurture your spiritual journey with clarity and intention. By recognizing these everyday messages, you can embark on a path of personal transformation and growth, strengthening your relationship with Hashem. Join us as we explore the beauty of divine communication, and learn how to interpret and respond to these messages with an open heart.
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This episode (Ep 7.2) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Noach is dedicated in Honor of Gary Nathanson & 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!
Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 19, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 21, 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!
_____________
SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com
_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
_____________
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 examine the morality of evil and its consequences in our modern world, using the narrative of Noach from the Torah as a lens. We reflect on why God decided to obliterate all life forms from the face of the earth, and why such an extreme action is deemed necessary in the face of evil. We grapple with the concept of how man's wickedness impacts the innocent, leading to the destruction of birds, animals, and creatures. Noach, the man who maintained his righteousness in the midst of all this wickedness, is also a focus of our discussion.
The discussion continues with a contemplation on maintaining a moral compass amidst ridicule and a wicked world. We explore the need to address our own flaws and promote good in the world, drawing lessons from God's instruction to Noach to obliterate evil. We also talk about how the current global events mirror the tales of the Torah, especially the ongoing violence and terrorism from Hamas in Gaza. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that links ancient wisdom with current events, challenging us to reflect on our own actions and choices in today's world.
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This episode (Ep 6.2) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Noach is dedicated 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!
Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 17, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 17, 2023
_____________
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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com
_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
_____________
Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
Join us on a captivating exploration of timeless narratives as we delve deep into the heart of the Torah's stories. We assure you, this journey will not only enlighten but also inspire you with the compelling tales of Noah and Abraham, their righteousness, the choices they made and the responsibilities they shouldered. Their stories illustrate fascinating lessons on morality, the importance of individual choice, accountability for others, and the need to speak plainly yet profoundly.
Immerse yourself as we dissect the intriguing character of Noah, a beacon of righteousness in a generation of wickedness, and the divine message hidden amidst the numbers in the Torah. Together, we'll glean lessons from Noah's story, appreciating the significance of meaningful actions and transformative steps towards change when errors occur. Tune in for an enriching dose of wisdom and motivation and discover the immense potential for growth that lies in challenging ourselves and in sharing our wisdom with the world. This insightful journey promises to leave you with a profound understanding of the Torah's teachings, and their relevance to the world we live in today.
Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 27, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 27, 2022
In this inspiring opening episode of the fifth cycle of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Bereishis and one of the Torah's most profound questions: “Ayeka — Where are you?” After Adam and Eve eat from the Tree of Knowledge, Hashem does not immediately confront them with accusations or demand repentance. Instead, He asks Adam, “Where are you?” This question is not about Adam's physical location but about his spiritual standing. Hashem is asking: Where have you gone from your greatness? Are you fulfilling your unique mission, or have you wandered away from your true purpose?
Through a memorable parable about a poor man who travels to an island filled with diamonds but becomes distracted by collecting coconuts, Rabbi Wolbe illustrates how easily we can confuse temporary worldly success with eternal spiritual achievement. We enter this world with precious opportunities to collect the real diamonds of life—mitzvos, acts of kindness, personal growth, and closeness to Hashem. Yet we often become consumed with careers, wealth, material possessions, and physical pleasures, forgetting why we came here in the first place. The tragedy is not necessarily that we fail to achieve success, but that we succeed at things that ultimately do not fulfill our soul's purpose.
Rabbi Wolbe further explores the relationship between the body and soul, reminding us that we are not merely physical beings with spiritual responsibilities—we are souls entrusted with physical bodies to accomplish our divine missions. Our eyes, hands, strength, talents, and physical capabilities are extraordinary gifts from Hashem, intended to help us serve Him and elevate our souls. Even our everyday emotional reactions offer opportunities for spiritual greatness: when provoked, will we respond with anger, or will we choose mercy, kindness, love, and patience?
The episode concludes with a powerful challenge for every listener: Ask yourself, “Ayeka? Where am I in my personal journey?” Every human being is unique, created with a mission that nobody else can accomplish. By removing distractions, embracing Torah and mitzvos, and striving to emulate Hashem, we can return to our true path and fulfill the extraordinary purpose for which our souls were sent into this world.
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This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman
Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 9, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 9, 2026
_____________
Subscribe:
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: [email protected]
_____________
Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Bereishis, #Bereshit, #ParshaReview, #WeeklyParsha, #TorahStudy, #TorahWisdom, #JewishLearning, #Adam, #Eve
In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins the fourth cycle of weekly Torah insights with Parshas Bereshis, focusing on creation's profundity and life's lessons from Genesis 1:25–27. He emphasizes Hashem's deliberate design, urging listeners to derive ethics from nature if Torah were absent, while highlighting Torah's elevation beyond instinct.
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This episode (Ep 8.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman
Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 17, 2025
_____________
Subscribe:
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: [email protected]
_____________
Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Creation, #Bereshit, #Duality, #Nature, #Lessons, #Transformation, #Chumash
Discover the timeless essence of truth embedded in the Torah as we explore its foundational aspects, beginning with the often-neglected Bereishit. This episode promises an enriching journey into understanding truth as a vital component of both our spiritual and everyday lives. We delve into the significance of the Hebrew letters Aleph, Mem, and Taf, forming the word "Emes" (truth), and their presence throughout the Torah. With insights drawn from the written and oral Torahs and Rashi's commentary, we underscore how truth emerges as not just an abstract concept, but a lived principle, encouraging a life of authenticity and sincerity.
Journey with us into practical applications of truth, spotlighted by the discerning judgement of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein in the face of adversity. We explore the idea of truth as an eternal guide, urging listeners to embrace incremental growth in religious observance without altering the core teachings of the Torah. Personal integrity takes center stage as we liken our relationship with God to a genuine romantic bond, emphasizing that our spiritual journey should stem from personal conviction, free from societal pressures. This episode invites you to make the Torah a meaningful part of your journey, offering support and patience as you nurture a sincere and personal connection to your faith.
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This episode (Ep 7.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated in Honor of Gary Nathanson & 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!
Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 19, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 20, 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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com
_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
_____________
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 paused to ponder why the Torah starts with the beginning of creation and not just tell us the laws of life?
Listen in as we discuss the pressing current events unfolding in Israel, and the profound implications these have on our faith and learning. This episode takes a comprehensive look at the Torah in Parashat Bereishis, along with Rashi’s enlightening commentary on the word 'Bereishis.' As we journey through these teachings, we unravel the deep significance of the backstory of our ancestors and how it intertwines with our right to the land of Israel. We discover that this rich narrative isn't merely history, but an affirmation of our place and purpose as the Jewish people.
Moving forward, we delve into the heartening verse from the Torah that calls us to bring both our good and bad inclinations to God. Drawing inspiration from the righteous and holy souls that were brutally murdered by the barbaric animals from Gaza, and the wisdom of the Chofetz Chaim, we reflect on the devotion and unity with which we fulfill mitzvahs. In the final segment, we focus on the sanctity of Shabbos, discussing how we can elevate this day and embrace godliness. Tune in, and let's unravel these teachings, overcome negativity through mitzvahs, and strive to become the greatest people we can be.
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This episode (Ep 6.1) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis is dedicated 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!
Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on October 13, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 13, 2023
_____________
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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com
_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [email protected]
_____________
Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.1) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.
This episode is dedicated in honor of Bobbi Asarch & Linda Friedberg who had the idea to start this weekly class! Thank YOU!
00:00 Parsha Summary
20:05 Important Lessons Segment
Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing
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To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol
Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha 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/support.php.
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 October 27, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 27, 2022
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