Reflecting on the journey of my grandson, born prematurely, we dedicate this episode to his speedy recovery and explore the concept of "afflictions of love" from the Talmud's Tractate Berachot 5a. We consider the paradox of life's greatest gifts often requiring the most arduous paths—whether it's mastering the Torah or making Aliyah to Israel. Through personal stories and experiences, we explore the idea that these challenges form an integral part of spiritual growth, offering not just purification, but a deeper connection to the divine.

Our exploration continues with a discussion on viewing divine rebuke as an expression of love. By examining teachings from the Torah and insights from figures like Rabbi Yisrael Salanter, we dissect how lesser afflictions can provide lessons for enduring more significant ones. This episode also highlights the significance of individualized tests tailored by Hashem, encouraging us to embrace these challenges not merely as trials but as opportunities for profound spiritual cleansing and liberation. We recognize the importance of appreciating these divine challenges, for they contribute to building our resilience and character.

The conversation extends into the realm of parenting, exploring the delicate balance between allowing children to navigate life's challenges and intervening when necessary. We discuss strategies for fostering healthy environments, especially in our technologically saturated world, and emphasize the importance of empathy and compassion in our interactions with others. Through narratives of balancing love and humanity, we conclude with the hope that these insights provide guidance and inspiration, encouraging listeners to face their personal trials with faith and fortitude.

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The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud.

This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on May 9, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 23, 2025
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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: 

• 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!
_____________
#Talmud, #Berachos, #Talmudic, #Affliction, #Introspection, #Purification, #Forgiveness, #Desensitization, #Protection, #Sensitivity, #Compassion, #AnimalCare, #HumanRelationships

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #167), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe talks about Way 40: Dan Lechaf Zechut - Judge your fellow Favorably, and shares wisdom, insights, stories and lessons from the teaching of our sages about not judging people on what you see on the surface but to take steps deeper to see the full person. If you judge others, judge the whole entire person, not just the isolated incident.

During the 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot we celebrate and focus on this 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. This podcast was recorded during the 48 ways series during those 49 days. 

****

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 June 17,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 15, 2023

This Episode was recorded with Dan Kullman for the incredible Shema Podcast!

With the final two days of Pesach upon us and Shavous in our site, we need to remember that the journey to Mt. Sinai is as important in our growth as our arrival at our destination. Before we receive the Torah, we need to forge ourselves into the perfect vessel to receive it and that is the purpose of the days ahead. I have the great privilege of visiting on the Shema Podcast and share some idea of our action items and path on our journey to Shavuos.

To Watch or Listen to the Podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

• Video: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOq8yL822A1FEOsNG4ByxFo_3QQhmUUVa
• Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this trait 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 www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in TORCH Studio C on April 20, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 21, 2022 on the Shema Podcast by Dan Kullman (https://shema.transistor.fm/episodes/the-journey-to-shavuos-with-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe).
Re-broadcast on April 11, 2023

★ Support this podcast ★

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #166), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe talks about Way 39: Noseh Be'ol Im Chaveiro - Carry Your Fellows Burden, and shares wisdom, insights, stories and lessons from the teaching of our sages about stepping into someone else's shoes and feeling their situation. Everyone is dealing with their unique life struggles and its vitally important to understand and feel for another persons difficulties and even happy times. 

During the 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot we celebrate and focus on this 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. This podcast was recorded during the 48 ways series during those 49 days. 

****

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 June 17,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 10, 2023

Immerse yourself in the essence of Torah and transform your life! Our latest episode promises to uncover the profound significance of Parshas Bechukosai, where we journey beyond mere mitzvah observance to the very heart of Torah study. Through insightful commentary from Rashi and an evocative parable by the Chofetz Chaim, we explore how Torah is not just a set of rules, but a divine language and the very fabric of our lives. Discover how the blessings recited each morning can deepen your connection to this sacred study and inspire you to make Torah an integral part of your daily existence.

In a touching segment, hear a moving bar mitzvah tradition that underscores the power of self-driven Torah study over seeking miraculous blessings. Guided by the wisdom of a humble grandfather, we highlight that becoming a Torah scholar is within reach for anyone willing to dedicate themselves to learning. We share personal anecdotes and stories that celebrate the inclusive nature of the Talmud, encouraging every Jew to embrace Torah as their rightful inheritance and find personal connections to great scholars, making Jewish knowledge accessible to all earnest seekers.

Our episode also emphasizes the invaluable practice of independent study in understanding Halachah, Jewish Law, drawing from a poignant story about a grandfather's advice to his grandson. Learn how researching halachic questions independently enriches one's knowledge and application of Jewish law, supplemented by reflections on studying under Rabbi Yitzchak Berkowitz. We conclude with a powerful message of perseverance in teaching and learning, illustrated through personal stories. Tune in to grasp the urgency of our mission from a Torah perspective, urging continuous learning and spiritual growth to elevate our lives.

This episode (Ep 6.33) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bechukosai is dedicated in Honor of Shloime & Mushky Zionce & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 28, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 29, 2024
_____________
DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
_____________
SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

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

_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [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 this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #158), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe talks about Way 38: Aino Sameich Behoraa - Don't Delight in Decision Making, and shares wisdom, insights, stories and lessons from the teaching of our sages about the importance of making good decisions. Life is filled with options, but a smart person evaluates the choices carefully, and decides accordingly. 

During the 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot we celebrate and focus on this 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. This podcast was recorded during the 48 ways series during those 49 days.  

****

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 June 17,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 20, 2023

★ Support this podcast ★

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 3.10) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bechukosai offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
08:56 Important Lessons

This Parsha Review episode is dedicated in Honor of Ed Steiner!

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 9,  2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 11, 2023

In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #155), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe talks about Way 37: U'Meigis Libo Betalmudo - Don't be so Complacent or Arrogant, and shares wisdom, insights, stories and lessons from the teaching of our sages about the importance of removing all arrogance as we recognize that all the greatness we have is a gift from Hashem and not our own doing. When we realize that our unique talents and abilities only obligate to do more than the standard and "norm" we will also learn that there is nothing to be overly proud and arrogant about. Keep you head down and plow forward. Do great things and recognize that Hashem gives you your abilities. 

During the 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot we celebrate and focus on this 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. This podcast was recorded during the 48 ways series during those 49 days.  

****

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 June 17,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 14, 2023

★ Support this podcast ★

Embark on a spiritual exploration with us as we uncover the timeless wisdom of Parsha Behar, a treasure trove of lessons on faith and resilience anchored in the practices of the sabbatical and jubilee years. Unravel the mystery of why these commandments were given to our ancestors and us in the desert, and let's reflect together on the Shemitah year—a divine reminder that all we possess is a generous gift from Hashem. Our conversation will weave through historical events, such as the recent miraculous protection of Israel, to illuminate the profound impact of these ancient laws on our contemporary understanding of divine providence and trust.

Be inspired by the tale of a secular kibbutz whose leap into observing the sabbatical year brought about an unexpected harvest of faith and fortune. As we discuss their experience and the resulting bounty that defied their skepticism, we reaffirm the spiritual principle that gratitude and recognition of the divine imbue our daily lives with deeper meaning. Through the lens of Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, we'll confront the allure of worldly assurances and rediscover the essence of Jewish identity—finding strength in life's uncertainties through an unwavering faith in Hashem. Join us for this journey steeped in tradition and rich with insight, as we celebrate the resilience that defines our spiritual heritage.

This episode (Ep 6.32) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Behar is dedicated in Honor of Levi & Leah Netzer on the engagement of our children & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 21, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 22, 2024
_____________
DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
_____________
SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

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

_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: [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 this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #154), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe talks about Way 36: U'Boreiach Min Hakavod - Run Away from Honor, and shares wisdom, insights, stories and lessons from the teaching of our sages about the importance of removing the need for constant honor and the desire to receive praise and accolades from other humans. Our goal should be singularly, to do the will of Hashem and disregard what others will consider good or righteous. Stay humble and don't do things because your get the compliment, do it because it's the right thing to do.  

During the 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot we celebrate and focus on this 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. This podcast was recorded during the 48 ways series during those 49 days.  

****

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 June 14,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 13, 2023

★ Support this podcast ★