Advertise on podcast: Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

Stepping into the realm of sacred rituals and spiritual purity, we journey through the Book of Leviticus, unraveling the deep-seated teachings that have shaped the path to divine connection. This podcast episode invites you to traverse  the profound intricacies of ancient offerings and their contemporary implications. We delve into the roles and responsibilities of both the ancient Israelites and the priests, and the resonating lesson from Nadav and Avihu's story about the gravity of adhering to spiritual protocol. Holiness and atonement are cornerstones of spiritual life, and in this session, they come to the forefront as we dissect the Torah portions of Acharei Mot and Kedoshim. The narrative of Yom Kippur unfolds, revealing its timeless message of repentance and the grace of forgiveness that follows sincere change. The respectful treatment of blood in kosher practices opens a window into the ethical fabric woven through our dietary laws, reminding us of the sanctity of life itself. As our exploration reaches its zenith, we turn inward, examining the essence of personal sanctity and the practical steps one can take to maintain it in modern society. From internet use to the sanctification of time, we seek to understand how our everyday choices contribute to a life of holiness. We share reflections on the moral imperatives that guide our interactions with others' property and lives, underscoring the enduring values of respect and restitution.  This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!! Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 13, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Join us on this enlightening journey through the timeless wisdom of Mesilat Yesharim by the Ramchal, where we uncover the profound purpose behind our existence. Listen in as we discuss the delicate balance between enjoying the world and preserving its beauty, as taught by the example of Adam in the Garden of Eden. Every pleasure, we learn, has its permissible counterpart, reminding us to indulge responsibly, without harming the world around us. This conversation takes a turn towards the eternal, emphasizing that our time here is but a preparation for the World to Come. Like athletes in a football season, we too are playing a series of games that lead us toward a much grander championship – the ultimate reward in the afterlife. In this episode, we contemplate the nature of true pleasure, comparing the fleeting joys of the material world with the profound bliss of spiritual accomplishments. Our actions in this life, like visiting the sick and embracing mitzvahs, are not just acts of kindness but investments in our eternal well-being. We share personal routines and stories that highlight the importance of selfless deeds and how they accumulate to promise us a place in the 'grand ballroom' of the afterlife. It's a powerful reminder of how every mitzvah carries with it a reward far greater than any earthly delight. Wrapping up our session, we reflect on the quest for purpose and perfection in life, drawing insights from the wisdom of the Mishnah. We explore how every challenge is a message steering us towards a life of spiritual fulfillment and alignment with the will of Hashem. The focus shifts to the ongoing work of refining our character, akin to enhancing a diamond's brilliance. We are guided through the concept of Mussar, which helps us polish our virtues and confront our flaws. Our discussion leaves us with a sense of gratitude for life's privileges and responsibilities, urging us to make the most of our unique journey towards spiritual growth. This weekly series is led by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, a journey through personal growth and character development guided by the teachings of Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato) in the Mussar Masterpiece, Mesillas Yesharim (Ways of the Upright).In this series we follow the ArtScroll Mesorah: The Jaffa Family Edition of the Mesillas Yesharim - Way of the Upright.Available for purchase at: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422614167.html Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio A to a live audience on January 21, 2019, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 14, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Welcome back to the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, where we journey from the trials of Egypt to the triumph at Mount Sinai, uncovering the profound transformations of the Jewish people. Listen in as we explore the shift from the familial narratives of Genesis to the birth of a nation in Exodus. Discover how the arduous experiences in Egypt were not just hardships, but the very crucible that forged the identity of the Israelites as the chosen people. We examine Moses' ascension from the Pharaoh's palace to becoming the epitome of empathetic leadership, and delve into the shepherd metaphor that so beautifully illustrates the qualities required of a true leader. As we navigate through this episode, we reflect on the gripping tale of struggle and redemption within the Torah, highlighting that the journey is as crucial as the destination. We unravel the significance behind the Torah concluding before the Israelites' arrival in the Promised Land and offer insights into Moses' reluctance as a leader, juxtaposed with Aaron's eloquence. The conversation takes a turn through the awe-inspiring plagues, the anticipation of the Red Sea's parting, and the daily remembrance of the Exodus, linking it to our present-day practices and traditions. In our final chapter, we discuss the sacred acceptance of the Torah and the establishment of an everlasting covenant with God. Join us as we celebrate Yisro's conversion and the remarkable event of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai, revealing the unity and the encompassing nature of these divine laws. We consider the delicate balance between financial responsibilities and human dignity, emphasizing the transformative power of mitzvahs, the Tabernacle, and the lessons learned from the Golden Calf. Whether you're deepening your knowledge or seeking a spark of inspiration, this episode is a treasure trove of Jewish wisdom and spirituality. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 6, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 11, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of the month of Adar, the month of joy, happiness and good fortune for the Jewish people with festivities and celebrations of our saving from the hands of our enemies.  This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #160) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 2, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 3, 2023_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:  NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Embark on a transformative journey with us as we unlock the teachings of Ramchal in "Mesilat Yisharim," offering insights into living a life that aligns material pleasure with spiritual fulfillment. Discover the delicate art of using our world as more than a playground of indulgence, but as a sacred tool to enhance our connection with Hashem, the very source of ultimate joy. In this episode, we differentiate between self-gratification and divine service, through the practicalities of everyday life — from the food on our plates to the vehicles we drive. We grapple with the material world's allure and its potential to both ensnare and elevate. Breaking down the spiritual essence of mundane activities, we share how selecting apples or the act of blessing can transform routine into redemption. The stories we recount illustrate the profound impact our mindful actions can have, pulling back the curtain on the true power of intention in the seemingly insignificant choices we make each day. Join us as we critique the complexities of wealth, philanthropy, and the authenticity of our actions. Are we bogged down by the weight of our wealth, or are we leveraging it to uplift others? A light-hearted tale from an Israeli comedy sketch about a kidney donor's quest for recognition serves as a springboard into a deeper discussion about the nature of giving. This story, among others, underscores the episode's central theme: the quest for sincerity in our pursuit of spiritual growth, philanthropy, and the everyday interactions that define our journey towards a life of true purpose and connection. This weekly series is led by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, a journey through personal growth and character development guided by the teachings of Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato) in the Mussar Masterpiece, Mesillas Yesharim (Ways of the Upright).In this series we follow the ArtScroll Mesorah: The Jaffa Family Edition of the Mesillas Yesharim - Way of the Upright.Available for purchase at: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422614167.html Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio A to a live audience on January 14, 2019, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 6, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Embark on a profound exploration of Genesis, the book that lays the cornerstone of Judaism and the storied beginnings of the family of Israel. Together we unravel the fabric of creation, the inception of humankind, and the lives of its earliest patriarchs, from Adam and Eve's foray into knowledge to Joseph's enduring legacy. As we navigate through these timeless narratives, we uncover the divine orchestration of choice and consequence that permeates the existence of each biblical figure and resonates with the existential queries of our own lives. Venture into the depths of morality with our discussion on the stark contrasts between Noah's solitude and Abraham's dynamic faith. We dissect the nuanced challenges they faced, including intellectual dilemmas and the intricacies of moral behavior within a world veiled in shades of gray. We share wisdom on Abraham's trials and tests in faith, offering a lens through which we can interpret the covenant's implications and the resounding impact of his devotion on future generations. As we draw the curtains on our journey through Genesis, we reflect on the legacies of Ephraim and Manasseh, whose stories hold invaluable lessons for maintaining cultural identity amidst foreign environments. We impart the essence of community, hope, and nurturing a personal bond with the Divine. With these foundations, we invite you to carry forward the torch of the patriarchs, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding within the tapestry of Judaism. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 28, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Walking through the ancient streets of Jerusalem, one can't help but feel a connection to the past, a thread weaving through the fabric of time. On this podcast, we're joined by Rabbi Tzvi Blachman, who brings that sensation to life as he recounts his journey from a child of Holocaust survivors to a beacon of wisdom for Israeli and American students. Amidst the city's evolving skyline, Rabbi Blachman shares how the pursuit of material achievements must be balanced with a commitment to spiritual growth and the values that have sustained Jewish culture through the ages. His stories serve as powerful reminders that in a world racing towards tomorrow, our roots need to be firmly planted in tradition. There's a moment in everyone's life that defines their path, and for Rabbi Blachman, that moment came when teaching Torah became more than a passion—it became a calling. The Rabbi's narrative takes us to the heart of his decision to dedicate his life to the sacred texts, revealing the profound influence of his early experiences and role models on his love for Torah study. He discusses the challenges that many Jewish youths face, including the seductive pull of modern Western society and the resulting struggle to maintain a strong Jewish identity. The anecdotes he shares, like the transformative encounter with a religious boy dating outside the faith, underscore the urgency of his mission to guide the next generation towards a deep-seated pride in their heritage. Our conversation shifts from the personal to the universal as Rabbi Blachman reflects on the indelible impact of the Holocaust on collective Jewish memory and the spiritual resonance of traditions like the shul balconies. We traverse the heartbreaking notion of a "spiritual Holocaust" in our time, with countless Jews drifting away from their ancestral bonds. The Rabbi also invites us to reimagine the celebration of Shabbat, not merely as a weekly pause but as the pinnacle of our spiritual week. As Rabbi Blachman recounts unexpected Torah study sessions and the teachings of Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, he paints a picture of a culture where acts of kindness and devotion to study are not the exception, but the fabric of everyday life. Join us for this profound exploration of faith, identity, and the timeless lessons that guard the soul of a people. This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #271) is dedicated to our dearest friends, Rabbi Ari & Sami Winkler!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 29, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 28, 2023_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:  NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Unlock the secrets of the Torah as we journey through its timeless wisdom and divine teachings. Join us as we embark on an insightful journey through the foundations of the Torah in our Bible Crash Course. Listen in as we address ten pivotal questions that unravel the essence of the Torah, exploring not just its historical and legal facets but its role as a living document, intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. We contemplate its authorship, structure, and the profound connection it establishes between us and the Divine, emphasizing that the Torah is far more than a static record; it is a dynamic blueprint for existence and a testament to an enduring wisdom that transcends time. As we venture further, we dissect the layers of the Torah, shedding light on the Ten Commandments and the powerful partnership they symbolize between mankind and God. The conversation extends to the Oral Law, where the intricacies of Jewish tradition come alive through the interpretations of the Mishnah and Talmud, revealing the meticulous care with which these teachings have been preserved and passed down. Delve into the wisdom of sages like Maimonides and Rabbi Yosef Karo, whose works continue to shape the daily practices of Jewish life, inviting each of us to seek a deeper understanding of the Torah's timeless teachings. Finally, the discussion culminates with a heartwarming story of a friend and lawyer who found himself entangled in questions of the Torah's authenticity. This personal narrative underscores the universal respect for the Torah and its singular, unaltered message that has echoed throughout millennia. Embrace the transformative power of Torah study, as it guides us in refining our character and strengthening our bond with God, ensuring that its wisdom remains as relevant and vibrant today as it was over 3,300 years ago at Mount Sinai. Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharing Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on January 23, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 25, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Embark on a voyage of spiritual discovery with us as we unearth the treasures of the Mesilat Yesharim and its profound relevance in nurturing an intimate bond with the Divine. This episode promises to illuminate the path to genuine connection, likening the dedication needed in our divine relationship to the depths of marital intimacy. Through heartfelt mitzvahs and a life lived with acknowledgment and gratitude, we uncover how every action can bring us closer to Hashem, or conversely, create a widening gap with sins. As we wade through the waters of materialism and spirituality, we confront the necessity of mastering our earthly desires to ensure they enhance rather than hinder our purpose. The metaphor of the Messiah on a donkey becomes a powerful lesson in controlling the seductive pull of technology and material goods. Insights from the Torah remind us of the virtues reflected in the animal kingdom, providing a unique perspective on character development. We find wisdom in striking a balance, learning from both King Solomon and the animal names bestowed by Adam, unraveling the significance behind each spiritual challenge life presents us. Closing our episode, we reflect on the ethos of personal accountability and the enduring quest for self-improvement. We discuss how embracing our individuality is key to utilizing our unique gifts to their fullest capacity, without succumbing to mediocrity. Join us as we aspire to inspire, fostering a community of growth and shared motivation toward reaching our highest selves. Tune in for an exploration that promises to uplift, challenge, and transform your spiritual journey in ways you never imagined. This weekly series is led by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, a journey through personal growth and character development guided by the teachings of Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato) in the Mussar Masterpiece, Mesillas Yesharim (Ways of the Upright). In this series we follow the ArtScroll Mesorah: The Jaffa Family Edition of the Mesillas Yesharim - Way of the Upright.Available for purchase at: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422614167.html Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio A to a live audience on January 7, 2019, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 24, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of Tu B'Shevat, the day of reinvigorating our connections with our ancestors, our children and future generations and most of all our creator and His Torah! This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #151) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!! Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 2, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 5, 2023_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:  NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Welcome back to another enlightening discussion on the Jewish Inspiration Podcast. This time around, listen in as we explore the profound notion that the pursuit of pleasure, specifically spiritual pleasure, is at the very heart of human existence. Drawing from the paradox presented in Parashat Vayechi, we uncover the essence of what it means to be truly alive, emphasizing that we are souls wrapped in physical form, yearning for a deeper connection with the Divine. Our journey through the Torah provides us with the ultimate manual for nourishing our soul, as every mitzvah observed and every spiritual act becomes sustenance for our true selves. The conversation then shifts to the hurdles we encounter in life, where we discuss the indispensable role of the Yetzer Hara, or evil inclination, and how it can distract us from our spiritual objectives. Reflecting on the wisdom of the Ramchal, we come to understand that the struggles we face are not mere inconveniences but rather the necessary challenges that refine us, earning our place in Olam Haba, the World to Come. Acknowledge that the desire for a life devoid of problems is but a fallacy; instead, embrace the universal nature of these trials as opportunities for growth and the actualization of our divine mission. In the final stretch of our dialogue, we draw inspiration from the remarkable accomplishments of sports legends like Larry Bird and scholars such as Reb Naftali Amsterdam, who demonstrate that overcoming adversity can lead to extraordinary achievements. We are each endowed with a unique set of tools and strengths, which, when harnessed correctly, can propel us to fulfill our individual purpose. As we wrap up, the message is clear: relish the journey, celebrate the hurdles, and find joy in the pursuit of our spiritual goals, for as long as we draw breath, our work is not done. Join us for this uplifting and soul-stirring episode, and may you be blessed with success and spiritual contentment. This weekly series is led by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, a journey through personal growth and character development guided by the teachings of Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato) in the Mussar Masterpiece, Mesillas Yesharim (Ways of the Upright). In this series we follow the ArtScroll Mesorah: The Jaffa Family Edition of the Mesillas Yesharim - Way of the Upright: Available for purchase at: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422614167.html Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio A to a live audience on December 24, 2018, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 18, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Unlock a deeper understanding of life's true purpose as we navigate the complexities of pleasure and its divine connotations in our latest Jewish Inspiration Podcast. This episode promises to guide you through the discovery of enduring joy, contrasting it sharply with the ephemeral thrills that too often distract us. Join us as we explore the teachings of Ramchal's "Mesilat Yesharim" and uncover the intrinsic value of pleasure, like Shabbat—a time when the soul reconnects with its source and families bond, free from the week's material pursuits. Feel the warmth of heartfelt stories, including one of a classmate’s spiritual awakening through Shabbos observance in honor of his late wife, illustrating the transformative power of this sacred day. We examine how the simplicity and serenity of Shabbat allow us to align with the divine, achieving a state of spiritual bliss. Beyond the rituals, this episode delves into the substantial themes of personal growth versus selflessness and the magnificent role mitzvot play in binding us ever closer to Hashem. As we culminate our discussion, we share insights on the importance of being aware that our every action is seen, and how this mindfulness enhances our pursuit of greatness and godliness. We reflect on the joy and inspiration one can find in a life lived with purpose and adherence to spiritual principles. We extend a heartfelt invitation to all listeners, whether firmly rooted in their faith or seeking encouragement on their spiritual journey, to join us in this episode as we strive for a more profound, authentic happiness that resonates beyond mere pleasure. This weekly series is led by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, a journey through personal growth and character development guided by the teachings of Ramchal (Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato) in the Mussar Masterpiece, Mesillas Yesharim (Ways of the Upright). In this series we follow the ArtScroll Mesorah: The Jaffa Family Edition of the Mesillas Yesharim - Way of the Upright: Available for purchase at: https://www.artscroll.com/Books/9781422614167.html Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio A to a live audience on December 17, 2018, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 15, 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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com _____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________ Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★