In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the discussion from Tractate Berachot 5B, building on the previous episode’s exploration of the three divine gifts given to the Jewish people through suffering: the Torah, the Land of Israel, and the World to Come. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that these gifts require immense effort and perseverance, using the analogy of running a marathon to illustrate that acquiring Torah, for instance, demands complete immersion and overcoming challenges, not innate talent alone. He shares stories of great sages like Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, who achieved greatness through persistent struggle, not effortless brilliance. Addressing the Land of Israel, Rabbi Wolbe firmly asserts its divine allocation to the Jewish people, as promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, citing Rashi’s commentary on the Torah’s opening to underscore its eternal significance despite historical disputes. The episode delves into the concept of "afflictions of love," exploring Talmudic stories of sages like Rabbi Chia bar Abba, Rabbi Yochanan, and Rabbi Elazar, who faced illness but were revived through mutual support, highlighting the necessity of external help to overcome personal afflictions. A key story involves Rav Huna, who lost 400 barrels of wine to vinegar due to withholding a sharecropper’s due, illustrating the principle of midah k’neged midah (measure for measure). After accepting correction, Rav Huna’s loss was miraculously reversed, showing divine communication through afflictions. Rabbi Wolbe concludes by stressing that afflictions are purposeful messages from God to redirect and refine us, urging listeners to view challenges as opportunities for growth and connection to Hashem. The episode ends with a Q&A, affirming that God communicates clearly through tailored actions, encouraging introspection to understand and act on these divine messages.

This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on June 27, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 4, 2025

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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.
_____________
Listen, Subscribe & Share: 

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzm

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]
_____________

Keywords:
#Talmud, #Torah, #Resilience, #Israel, #Struggle, #DivineGifts, #Suffering, #Support

_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Listen More
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into the Talmudic discussion on Berachot 5A, focusing on Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai’s teaching about three divine gifts given to the Jewish people through suffering: the Torah, the Land of Israel, and the World to Come. Rabbi Wolbe explains that these gifts—essential to Jewish spiritual identity—are acquired only through challenges and afflictions. He illustrates this with the historical struggles for the Land of Israel, such as the War of Independence, the Six-Day War, and other conflicts, emphasizing its unique spiritual significance as a land that "expands like a deer's hide" to accommodate its people, yet demands perseverance due to its contested nature. He also discusses the Torah’s acquisition through distractions and personal sacrifices, sharing a story about Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach, who prioritized Torah study over social events to invest in his spiritual growth. Finally, the World to Come is presented as an eternal reward earned through overcoming this world’s challenges, each acting as a "badge of honor." Rabbi Wolbe concludes by previewing the next discussion on "afflictions of love" and invites listeners to engage further. The episode underscores the idea that spiritual rewards require effort and resilience, drawing from both Talmudic sources and contemporary examples.

This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on June 20, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on June 27, 2025

_____________
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.
_____________
Listen, Subscribe & Share: 

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thinking-talmudist-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1648951154
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0cZ7q9bGYSBYSPQfJvwgzm

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]
_____________

Keywords:
#Talmud, #Torah, #Resilience, #SpiritualGrowth, #Israel, #Challenges, #Overcoming

_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Listen More
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org

What if everything that happens to you, even the seemingly bad, is ultimately for your own good?" Join us on this spiritual journey as we explore the profound themes from the Talmudic tractate of Brachot, focusing on gratitude, repentance, and the power of spiritual connection. Through Leah's heartfelt gratitude upon the birth of Judah, we uncover the layers of divine generosity and the importance of giving thanks for blessings, whether grand or modest. This episode also navigates the intricate world of blessings tied to food consumption, shedding light on how even the act of eating can become a spiritual practice.

Names carry weight in Jewish tradition—more than just labels, they hold stories and significance. We embark on a thought-provoking exploration of names and perspectives, drawing lessons from King David’s resilience and understanding of adversity. By comparing the reactions of biblical figures like Esau and Reuben to their lost birthrights, we delve into the essence of identity and gratitude as reflected in ancient texts. The narratives remind us of a moral imperative to confront wickedness, offering a deeper understanding of our own identities through the names we bear.

Personal stories enrich our exploration of naming practices, weaving a tapestry of tradition and personal preference. From a young man advised to embrace his second name to our own anecdotes about naming our children, we highlight the delicate balance parents must strike. The responsibility of naming a child, free from external pressures, is emphasized as we express gratitude for our journey through Torah and Talmud wisdom. Join us for an uplifting discussion that concludes with heartfelt wishes for a peaceful journey and a great Shabbos for all our listeners.
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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 March 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on June 13, 2025
_____________
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, #Gratitude, #Blessings, #Names, #Identity, #ParentalProphecy

Facing adversity often feels like a daunting challenge, but what if these struggles are actually stepping stones to profound spiritual growth? On this episode of the Thinking Talmudist podcast, we examine the teachings of Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai and Rabbi Akiva, who illuminate the spiritual gifts attainable through perseverance. Rabbi Akiva's inspiring journey, beginning his Torah study at age 40 and overcoming immense hurdles, reminds us that resilience can lead to understanding and influence that transcend time. By embracing these "afflictions of love," we prepare ourselves for greater achievements and deeper connections with our spiritual heritage.

Words hold immense power, shaping reality and relationships in ways we often overlook. We explore how maintaining integrity in our speech, even in the face of social discomfort, is vital for personal and communal growth. Through stories of resilience, like the collective spirit post-September 11th, we highlight how shared struggles can unite and transform communities, urging us to cultivate unity and kindness. Like the process of creating olive oil, where pressure brings forth purity, adversity can reveal our best qualities and foster an indomitable spirit within individuals and communities alike.

Parenting holds the delicate power to shape a child's future through affirmation and encouragement. Drawing on Talmudic wisdom and the example of the High Priest, Aharon HaKohen, we discuss the necessity of bending the truth at times for the sake of peace and harmony. Positive reinforcement from parents can set the stage for a child's confidence and success, and we stress how expressing belief in their potential can nurture their greatness. Whether it's encouraging a child or fostering harmony among people, these affirmations are the foundation of nurturing confident, capable individuals who carry forward the legacy of resilience and integrity.

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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 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on June 6, 2025
_____________
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, #SpiritualGrowth, #LandofIsrael, #WorldtoCome, #Resilience, #Perseverance

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
_____________
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

What if the very struggles and afflictions we face are divine opportunities for introspection and growth? We invite you to explore the poignant insights of Tractate Brachot 5A, where ancient wisdom meets modern challenges. This episode unpacks the spiritual significance of illness and suffering, not as obstacles but as gifts that allow for emotional and spiritual preparation. Against the backdrop of the tragic events in Israel on October 7th, 2023, we draw parallels to the collective need for unity and reflection during national crises, urging us to find purpose and meaning even in our darkest moments.

Emphasizing vigilance and dedication, we examine how the Torah community must embrace a renewed sense of responsibility. Through personal anecdotes and teachings from the Talmud, we see how unexpected situations can transform into opportunities for mitzvot, revealing the divine messages hidden within our daily experiences. Reflect on the profound concept of "afflictions of love," where divine trials aren't just burdens but pathways to purify the soul and earn eternal rewards. As we connect these lessons to the spiritual essence of the Korban Asham, we understand the weight of acknowledging wrongdoings and seeking atonement.

In a world where routine often dulls passion, this episode challenges us to maintain the sincerity and purpose behind our sacred practices. Through the lens of childhood vaccinations, we draw parallels to how afflictions are expressions of divine love. We also explore the profound notion from the Talmud that the suffering of children serves as a powerful atonement message for their generation, urging personal and communal introspection. Together, we strive to embrace these lessons, extending wishes for a meaningful and peaceful Shabbos, filled with reflection and spiritual connection.

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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 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 16, 2025
_____________
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, #SpiritualGrowth, #Illness, #Preparation, #Reflection

Amidst the hum of life's daily challenges, I found myself pondering the deeper meanings behind adversity and spiritual growth. Our episode today begins with a profound reflection on a Talmudic passage from Tractate Brachot, which contrasts the human experience of loss with the divine joy of gifting the Torah. This exploration sets the stage for a broader conversation on how personal struggles can spark introspection, especially poignant as we honor Yom HaShoah, Holocaust Remembrance Day. We delve into the dualities of human nature, reflecting on both the capacity for cruelty and the remarkable resilience and compassion that define our shared history.

Our journey then takes us alongside the Baal Shem Tov to the bustling city of Istanbul, where his unwavering faith in divine providence leads to remarkable encounters just before Pesach. A wealthy couple's hospitality turns into a mystical adventure, emphasizing the power of simple faith and curiosity in spiritual growth. Through his trials and the eventual recitation of the Aleph Bet, we explore the foundational role of learning and faith in our lives, highlighting the profound connection between belief and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

Lastly, we turn our attention to the themes of prophecy and suffering, exploring how moments of pain can serve as catalysts for personal growth. Sharing personal stories of illness and resilience, we consider how these experiences can be viewed as divine communication, urging us to seek deeper understanding. Whether it's a burnt hand at Pesach or the enduring health challenges of loved ones, these stories remind us of the importance of introspection and faith. By embracing adversity, we invite opportunities for spiritual alignment and a more profound relationship with the divine. Join us as we navigate the complexities of faith, suffering, and the pursuit of spiritual insight.

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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 April 25, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 9, 2025
_____________
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, #Adversity, #Loss, #Introspection, #Prophecy, #Suffering, #Pain, #Illness, #Resilience

What happens when Moses, the great prophet, asks to see the face of God and is denied? Join us as we unravel the intriguing narratives from the Talmud where contrasting interpretations by Rabbi Yeshua ben Korchah and Rabbi Shmuel Bar Nachmani shed light on a pivotal moment in Moses' journey. Discover how a single choice at the burning bush led to Moses' spiritual reward, and why adhering to kosher laws is more accessible than ever, with everyday products surprising us with their kosher certifications.

Have you ever wondered about the legacy of Abraham and the astonishing fulfillment of promises made to Moses? We explore an extraordinary Talmudic discussion revealing the astonishing growth of Moses' lineage, thanks to the method of Gezeras Shaveh. This episode also brings to life the mystical teachings of Rabbi Shimon ben Yochai, illustrating how his time in isolation became a powerful testament to spiritual development. We also acknowledge Abraham's pioneering role in establishing the morning prayer and delve into the origins of idolatry from the perspective of the Rambam.

Gratitude often gets overshadowed by our daily routines, but what if appreciating everyday blessings could transform our lives? Reflect with me on the luxuries we frequently overlook—from the simplicity of strawberries to the technology connecting us with loved ones across the globe. Through personal anecdotes and Talmudic wisdom, this episode emphasizes the profound impact of gratitude on our well-being. 

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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 March 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 28, 2025
_____________
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, #Moses, #Ascent, #Legacy, #Abraham, #Idolatry, #Gratitude, #EverydayBlessings, #PesachSeder, #Haggadah

Unlock the secrets of divine emotions and human resilience as we explore intriguing Talmudic tales and historical insights. On this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, discover the fleeting nature of God's anger as illustrated in Tractate Brachot 7a, and how even the wicked prophet Bilaam could not harness it against the Jewish people. Through captivating narratives, we'll reveal the significance of a rooster's behavior in identifying this moment and share the compelling story of a sage's encounter with a heretic, highlighting the historical implications of the Birchash Haminim prayer.

Journey with us through the ages as we uncover the profound importance of the Shema prayer during the Babylonian exile, and marvel at the innovative ways Jewish communities maintained traditions under duress. Through discussions about the structure of Jewish prayer and insights from Talmudic perspectives, you'll gain a richer understanding of how prayers adapted to preserve faith amidst adversity. Our conversation shines a light on the blessings associated with witnessing powerful leaders and Torah scholars, extending the dialogue to embrace the interplay between historical events and theological beliefs.

Finally, embrace the power of personal choice and responsibility, as we share compelling stories that challenge the constraints of lineage and ancestry. From a rabbi with a Nazi officer grandfather to Larry Bird's rise from adversity, these narratives inspire a belief in the potential to shape one's own future. Concluding with reflections on Moshe's rewards at the burning bush, we offer reassurance through the lens of Talmudic teachings, encouraging listeners to trust in the divine tapestry of life's events. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of anger, tradition, and the enduring human spirit.
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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 March 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 19, 2025
_____________
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, #ShemaPrayer, #Lineage, #BurningBush, #Tefillin, #Trust, #Future

Ever wondered about the nature of divine prayer? Discover the intriguing teachings from Tractate Berachot 7a of the Talmud, where we unravel Rabbi Yochanan’s profound insights into God's daily prayer. With Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe as our guide, we venture into the Holy of Holies, where Rabbi Yishmael ben Elisha's sacred encounter with God reveals the divine request for a blessing. This episode peels back the layers of this mystical dialogue, exploring the essential dynamic between mercy and judgment, and the insightful lessons it offers about our own lives.

But that's not all—this discussion takes a deeper dive into the interplay of anger and mercy through the lens of biblical stories like those of Moses and Balaam. How does one navigate the tempestuous sea of divine anger? Rabbi Yochanan offers timeless advice on the importance of timing and influence, emphasizing the potential impact of leaders in media and technology today. Join us as we explore the fleeting nature of God's anger, the power of positive influence, and the call for spreading divine light in the modern world. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking journey through the wisdom of the Talmud.
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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 February 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 12, 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!
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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!
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#Talmud, #Berachos, #Prayer, #Divine, #Technology, #Forgiveness, #Influence