In this Parsha Review on Tazria-Metzora, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores tzara’at (a leprosy-like affliction) as a spiritual consequence of lashon hara (slander), not a contagious disease. The afflicted must tear clothes, grow hair long, cover their mouth, announce “Tamei, Tamei” (I am contaminated), and isolate outside the camp—mirroring how they separated others through negative speech.

Key lessons:

• Lashon hara separates — Speaking negatively about someone distances them from their spouse, family, or community; the punishment forces the speaker to experience isolation.
• Community & unity — Don’t isolate; be part of a congregation (beit knesset = place of gathering). The Jewish people received the Torah as “one nation, one soul.” Synagogues and study halls are miniature Temples for nurturing relationships with God and others.
• Practical speech — Avoid negative talk entirely. When warning about potential harm (e.g., a swindler), do so discreetly without details or slander (“I would not approach this”—enough for intelligent people to understand). Media, anonymous sources, and public shaming are modern lashon hara pitfalls.
• Jewish pride — In Egypt, Jews kept distinct names, language, and dress—yet found favor because Hashem granted it. Don’t assimilate or hide identity (yarmulke, tzitzit, tefillin) to gain favor; authentic Judaism draws divine chen (favor).
• Modern application — Small acts of unity and positive speech build community; isolation weakens us. Torah is practical—apply lessons to daily life (media consumption, relationships, self-improvement).

The Torah calls us to elevate speech, foster unity, and live proudly Jewish—small, consistent improvements create lasting impact.
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This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman

• Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:
  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 28, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 30, 2026

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Subscribe: 

• Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)
• Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) 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: [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: 

• 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.org
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Keywords:
#Torah, #Parsha, #Leviticus, #TazriaMetzora, #LashonHara, #Tzaraat, #JewishUnity, #JewishPride, #Community, #SpeechEthics, #AvoidSlander

In episode twenty-eight of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Ha’oseh Siyag L’Dvarav — “making a fence around your words” (and by extension, around your life). Just as we build protective fences around dangerous things (nuclear plants, guns, etc.), we must create intentional boundaries to safeguard our speech, eyes, time, family, and values from negative influences.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that boundaries are essential for maximizing pleasure and success in every area. Without them, we lose appreciation (going to the beach every day stops being special), fall into bad habits (foul language from coworkers, endless scrolling), or expose ourselves and our children to harm. He stresses protecting innocence like we protect valuables — limit apps, use screen-time controls, avoid certain environments (e.g., Las Vegas as “Sin City”), and be cautious with media and influences.

Additional teachings include: pre-marital counseling/therapy as a wise boundary for marriage (especially for those over 30); knowing good vs. evil clearly; learning from mistakes only to improve the future; and recognizing that “the second look costs.” The definition of insanity is repeating the same action while expecting different results. Children absorb what they hear and see at home — set the right example. Ultimately, boundaries are not restrictions but strategic tools that allow us to live with clarity, self-control, and true freedom.

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Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio A on May 31,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 24, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
_____________
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.org
_____________

Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily

As parents we navigate the highs and lows of parenting, learning firsthand that the lessons we impart on our children resonate far beyond our words. In the midst of unpacking Parshas Emor, we stumble upon a profound truth in the redundancy of a Leviticus verse, as interpreted by Rashi: our obligation to actively educate our kids. In this episode we share not only the theoretical frameworks but also the heartfelt moments from our own journeys—like the nuanced dance of leading by example and the impact of our every action on our impressionable little ones. When we consider the metaphor of the firstborn's double inheritance, it becomes clear that the pioneering path of parenting our eldest is a mixture of trial, error, and invaluable learning that shapes our family legacy.

Yet, the true essence of this episode lies in the power of owning our mistakes. We recount times when we've had to ask my own children for forgiveness, moments that have been both humbling and enlightening. These stories serve as a testament to the beauty in our imperfections, the courage in accountability, and the alignment with the divine principles that guide our lives. As we move through the discussion, it's our hope that you'll find inspiration in the endless journey of personal development and spiritual alignment, a path marked by continual growth and the pursuit of righteousness—a legacy we strive to pass down to our children. Join us for a candid exploration of what it means to be a parent in the fullest sense, and how we can embrace the challenge as the greatest gift of all.

This episode (Ep 6.31) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Emor is dedicated in Honor of Dovi Wolbe & Adina Netzer on their Engagement & 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 17, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 17, 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: [email protected]
_____________

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

In episode twenty-seven of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches HaSameach B’Chelko — “happy/content with one’s portion.” This is one of the most vital traits for our generation, where material abundance coexists with record levels of depression and anxiety. True happiness does not come from having more, but from appreciating and being grateful for what we already have.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that people today — even those on government assistance — live with more comforts than kings had centuries ago, yet they remain miserable because they focus on what they lack rather than what they possess. Consumerism, window shopping, and constant comparison fuel endless chasing after the next “fix,” which provides only temporary dopamine before the craving returns. The key is daily gratitude: say “thank you” to Hashem constantly, aim for the 100 blessings a day we are commanded to recite, and maintain a personal list of things you are grateful for.

He shares a powerful personal story of a wealthy student who transformed from misery to joy after being assigned to write and daily recite 50 things he was thankful for. Happiness is an attitude and a discipline, not a destination or external circumstance. Negative people and environments drag us down, while focusing on blessings creates confidence, optimism, and fulfillment. Ultimately, being content with our portion allows us to enjoy life’s gifts without being enslaved by endless desire.

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Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio B on May 24,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 22, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
_____________
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.org
_____________

Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 3.8) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Emor offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
07:10 Important Lessons

This Parsha Review episode is dedicated in Honor of Bobbi Asarch & Linda Friedberg!

Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharing

*****

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 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 May 2,  2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 2, 2023

In episode twenty-six of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Ha'Makir Et Mekomo — “to know your place.” This is a foundational principle for a successful, meaningful life: understanding where we stand in every situation, especially in our relationship with Hashem. When you are in charge, know you are in charge. When you are not, know you are not. Knowing your place brings clarity, humility, and proper action.

Rabbi Wolbe stresses the importance of personal introspection — taking time alone to speak directly and unstructured with Hashem: thank Him, ask of Him, and share your hopes, dreams, and aspirations. In marriage, family, business, and community, everyone must know their responsibilities so harmony can exist. We must know ourselves before entering deep relationships, and we must know our unique purpose in this world — Hashem placed each of us here for a specific mission no one else can fulfill.

Key teachings include: we are only travelers passing through this world (like the Chofetz Chaim who saw himself as always traveling and therefore did not accumulate); write a personal and family mission statement and review it regularly; recognize that politicians and the honored in this world are often the lowest in the next, while the humble and trampled-upon are elevated; and understand that the world is “upside down” compared to how we perceive it. Knowing your place with your Creator gives direction, prevents arrogance, and allows you to fulfill your unique role with confidence and joy.

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Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio B on May 24,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 17, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
_____________
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.org
_____________

Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily

In episode twenty-five of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B’Kabbalat HaYisurim — “accepting pain” or “receiving suffering.” No pain, no gain is a fundamental principle of growth. Every truly valuable thing in life — children, marriage, Torah, Eretz Yisrael, Olam HaBa — comes with a price tag of effort and discomfort. According to the pain is the reward (“lefum tzara agra”).

Rabbi Wolbe explains that pain is an essential ingredient for real pleasure and achievement. We must learn to welcome it as a necessary byproduct of growth rather than running from it. Let children experience healthy failure so they develop resilience and the drive to fight harder next time. Pain is temporary, but the results and character it builds are permanent. Historical examples show that the Jewish people often rose to their greatest heights precisely during times of difficulty and exile — like an olive that yields its finest oil only when crushed.

Key teachings include: confront reality, find pleasure within the pain, and use suffering as fuel for growth; Moshe Rabbeinu was chosen because he felt the pain of others — we must do the same and not ignore suffering around us; make a list of things you fear and overcome them; and remember that toiling without immediate success is still valuable because the reward is pending. We should not seek unnecessary pain, but when it comes, accept and channel it toward greater merit and closeness to Hashem.

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Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio B on May 24,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 14, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
_____________
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.org
_____________

Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily

In episode twenty-four of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B’Emunat Chachamim — “with belief/faith in the wise” or valuing wisdom. Building on way #10 (serving the wise), this way emphasizes actively seeking, valuing, and believing in wisdom in every area of life — not only Torah, but also technology, parenting, marriage, business, medicine, and more.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that the world has always had distractions (even before smartphones and social media), yet King Solomon’s advice remains: seek wisdom like buried treasure. The first step is deciding you want truth and will not settle for less. Make for yourself teachers and experts in every field you need (“aseh lecha rav” applies broadly). Learn to think like a scholar by studying sources deeply, as his rebbe taught with source sheets before class.

He highlights the unbroken chain of Torah transmission from Moses at Sinai to today and the unique power of the Jewish people to derive all wisdom from Torah (even concepts like pi appear in the Talmud). The Chazon Ish’s precise surgical diagram drawn on a napkin is a striking example: deep Torah knowledge can illuminate modern fields when properly applied.

Practical guidance includes: listen to your parents and elders (white hair is an “information center”); be bothered by ignorance and time-wasting content so you are motivated to seek real wisdom; know what you are living (and willing to die) for; and recognize that Jews should look to Judaism as the ultimate source of wisdom. In our “Generation I” (self-centered, “me-first” culture), the greatest mistake is thinking we already know everything — instead, humbly seek those wiser than us and let their wisdom enter our souls.

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Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio A on May 24,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 10, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
_____________
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.org
_____________

Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily

In episode twenty-three of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Tov Lev — “with a good heart.” This quality is the engine that drives all other positive traits and actions. The Shema’s command to love God “with all your heart” (b’chol levavcha) refers to the two inclinations battling within us: the yetzer tov (good inclination) and the yetzer hara (evil inclination). We must consciously choose the good heart every day.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that a good heart brings clarity and virtue to everything else we do. Before every decision, we should ask: What does my soul want versus what does my body want? The yetzer hara pushes for immediate comfort or pleasure (chocolate cake, procrastination, TV), while the soul yearns for growth, wisdom, and connection to God. In Pirkei Avot, when the students were asked for the best way a person should conduct himself, Rabbi Elazar ben Arach answered “a good heart,” and that was deemed the correct response because a good heart energizes and perfects all other traits.

Key teachings include: do not get caught up in the facade of the world (beautiful cars or walls hide twisted metal and wires underneath); resist the “I” generation’s self-centered culture that cannot tolerate differing opinions; learn to appreciate small steps forward and differences in others; let children experience healthy failure so they learn to push themselves; be proactive about filling life with good deeds and emulating God; and constantly evaluate priorities — money versus happiness, comfort versus growth.

Rabbi Wolbe reminds us that the heart inspires action while the body performs it. A good heart keeps us aligned with our true mission, helps us discern real from fake, and ensures that even when we fall (the righteous fall seven times and rise), we get back up with renewed direction. Ultimately, having a “tov lev” is the key to maximizing life and achieving true happiness.
_____________

Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio A on May 24,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 8, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
_____________
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.org
_____________

Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily

Unlock the secrets to cultivating a life of holiness and self-discipline as we are guided through the ancient wisdom of Parshas Kedoshim. Prepare to be inspired by how incorporating self-restraint into your daily routine can elevate your spiritual existence, reflecting the divine. This episode delves into the Torah's call for the Children of Israel to be holy and how this directive is as relevant today as ever. We explore the sage advice on sanctifying ourselves by exercising control even in permissible indulgences, drawing upon the exemplary life of the Chofetz Chaim and the practice of "Taanis HaReivid." Personal anecdotes shed light on the formative impact of kosher laws from a tender age, demonstrating the far-reaching implications of self-control and the understanding of boundaries within our society.

Embark on a transformative journey to understanding the value of boundaries and how to impart this crucial life lesson to our children. We discuss the halachic rule preventing children from sitting in their father's seat as more than a mere directive; it's a foundational concept in fostering respect and self-restraint. We touch upon the principle of "Kadesh Atzmecha B'mutar Lach," advocating for the voluntary addition of restrictions to enhance personal holiness. This episode isn't just about rules; it's a heartfelt plea for daily self-improvement, whether you're a seeker of spiritual growth or someone looking to instill timeless values in the next generation, this conversation offers profound insights for a life led with purpose and reverence.

This episode (Ep 6.30) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Kedoshim is dedicated in Honor of Dovi Wolbe & Adina Netzer on their Engagement & 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 17, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 17, 2024
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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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