In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about faith, leadership, and the proper focus of human effort.

Drawing on the Me’am Loez, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses a Talmudic story about the prophet Elijah and Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi. Through a series of seemingly puzzling actions, Elijah teaches that people cannot always understand God’s purposes based on appearances alone. The lesson connects to the spies in Parashat Shlach, emphasizing the need for faith and highlighting how competing leaders can undermine effective governance.

In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein explains the custom of reciting “Baruch Shem” quietly after the first verse of the Shema. He traces the practice to Jacob’s final conversation with his sons, who affirmed their faith in God’s unity.

The Menorat HaMaor teaches that human beings are destined to labor, but the real question is what they choose to work toward. Rather than envying wealth, status, or luxury, a person should devote effort to Torah, mitzvot, and spiritual growth, valuing lasting achievements over temporary worldly success.

Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.