Épisodes

  • The Month of Adar: A Short & Sweet Inspiration
    Mar 3 2025

    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
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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: awolbe@torchweb.org
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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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    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    12 min
  • Purim Roundtable with TORCH Rabbis & Podcasters
    Mar 12 2025

    In preparation for the upcoming festival of Purim, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of Joy & Connection. Each of us shared an idea about Purim and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Purim with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance.

    Featured in this episode: Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH President, Dan Kullman.

    This Jewish Inspiration Podcast (Ep. #162) is dedicated in honor of our dear friends and neighbors, Barry & Monica Finberg, who have been such incredibly dedicated friends of TORCH for many years! May Hashem continue to bless you with great health and success in all your endeavors.

    *****
    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism
    • Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview
    • Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this episode or any other topic to awolbe@torchweb.org.

    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 TORCH Centre - Studio B on February 26, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on February 28, 2023

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    56 min
  • Purim: Short & Sweet Inspiration
    Mar 13 2025

    In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the holy days of Purim. The fast of Esther, the Day of Purim and the four Mitzvahs of the day.


    This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #164) is dedicated my dear friend, Danny Katz, who shared and enlightened me with the thought from the Lubavitcher Rebbe! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!!


    *****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism
    • Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview
    • Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.org


    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 March 2, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on March 6, 2023

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    13 min
  • Talmudist: Spiritual Kinship of Purim and Yom Kippur: Insights into Prayer, Charity, and Community
    Mar 24 2024
    Join us as we explore the transformative power of prayer on Purim and how it aligns with the essence of Yom Kippur. Listen in as we discuss the importance of humility and sincerity in our supplications, and the tradition of charity that becomes paramount on this day. We share insights into the mitzvah of drinking on Purim, the spiritual implications of uncovering our true selves, and a serious word of caution for those who may be battling addiction. Our conversation also touches on the profound symbolism behind the ritual of washing hands before meals, serving as a reminder of our dependence on the Divine.In our engaging discussion, we delve into the fabric of community dynamics and the crucial role of established guidelines and hierarchical structures. Discover the fascinating Talmudic story from Tractate Bava Basra that illustrates the potential fallout when communal rules are disregarded, and learn about the importance of involving respected authorities in maintaining order and fairness within our communities. The episode further investigates the complex decisions faced when evaluating eligibility for assistance, sharing scriptural sources and personal anecdotes that highlight the delicate balance between scrutiny and compassion in charitable acts.Lastly, we celebrate the spirit of Purim by emphasizing the mitzvah of giving charity, where each of us can participate in supporting those in need within our community. We offer practical advice on how to fulfill this commandment and recount the other joyful obligations associated with this festive time, including the festive meal, giving food gifts, and listening to the Megillah. As we wrap up this enlightening episode, we extend a heartfelt blessing to all our listeners, hoping that your acts of generosity are met with abundant joy and fulfillment. Happy Purim to all, and may we always cherish the opportunity to give and strengthen our communal bonds._____________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 is Episode 52 of the Thinking Talmudist PodcastThis Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan MarbinRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on March 22, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 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 ★
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    49 min
  • Transforming Purim into a Divine Experience
    Mar 13 2025

    Discover the hidden depths of the Purim celebration and enrich your spiritual journey. Unlock the profound mysteries and mitzvahs of Purim, ensuring you don't feel like you're leaving spiritual fulfillment on the table. Journey through the vibrant customs and acts of giving that transform this holiday from a mere ritual into a heartfelt connection with the divine.

    We'll explore the delicate balance between charity and Matanot La'Evyonim, the gifts to the poor that hold unique spiritual significance. Learn how sending gift baskets and embracing the festive spirit can lead to profound personal growth and a deeper relationship with God. By shedding light on the symbolism of Purim and the concept of divine orchestration, we promise you'll see the holiday in a whole new way, much like a masterful piece of art that reveals its layers upon closer inspection.

    Finally, embrace the peace and joy that come from understanding Hashem's guiding hand in every aspect of life. By letting go of ego and self-reliance, you can find relief from life's stresses and anxieties. Through personal stories and timeless wisdom, discover how the essence of Purim and the Megillah can illuminate your path, helping you become a vessel for divine light and wisdom. Join us and transform your experience of Purim into a meaningful journey toward spiritual clarity and fulfillment.

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    Recorded from a live audience presentation in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on March 11, 2025.
    Released as Podcast on March 12, 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: 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!
    _____________
    #Purim, #MatanotLa'Evyonim, #ego, #anxiety, #stress, #humility

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    49 min
  • The Laws of Purim (Siman 142)
    Mar 3 2026
    Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from Torch in Houston, Texas, unpacks the vibrant and multifaceted festival of Purim! Known for his deep insights and engaging storytelling, Rabbi Wolbe brings clarity to the joyous traditions that make Purim so special. We journey through the timeline of Purim celebrations, starting with Taanis Esther and moving through Purim and Shushan Purim, highlighting the unique observances in places like Jerusalem. Rabbi Wolbe shares the four essential mitzvahs that define Purim: reading the Megillah, sending Mishloach Manos, giving Matanos La'evyonim, and enjoying a festive feast. We explore the deep sense of community and generosity that these practices foster, even pondering modern questions like whether a coffee pod qualifies as a gift for Mishloach Manos.The conversation doesn't shy away from the complexities of Purim, such as balancing celebration with decorum and the considerations for mourners. We dive into the proper timing for meals and prayers, and discuss the historical tradition of consuming seeds. Rabbi Wolbe offers thoughtful guidance on how to maintain respect for religious practices while fully embracing the joy of Purim, especially the unique obligation to become intoxicated. We reflect on how one's true nature is revealed through their behavior, even during festivities, and touch on the nuances of observing Purim during a leap year. Whether you're familiar with these traditions or new to them, this episode offers a rich exploration of Purim's spirit and significance, ensuring you celebrate with mindfulness and joy._____________Recorded from a live audience presentation in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on March 9, 2025Released as Podcast on March 12, 2025_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This Bonus episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 9, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 12, 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/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!_____________#Purim, #Mitzvahs, #JewishHoliday, #Megillah, #MishloachManos ★ Support this podcast ★
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    34 min
  • 5 Inspirational Short & Sweet Thoughts on Purim
    Mar 14 2025

    In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares five short & sweet ideas of inspiration on the special and holy day of Purim.


    This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #48) is dedicated my dear friend, Dr. Leonard Goldberg! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!!


    *****

    To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishinspiration
    • Unboxing Judaism Podcast - https://linktr.ee/unboxingjudaism
    • Parsha Review Podcast - https://linktr.ee/parshareview
    • Living Jewishly Podcast - https://linktr.ee/jewishly
    • Thinking Talmudist Podcast - https://linktr.ee/talmudist

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to awolbe@torchweb.org


    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 on February 24, 2021, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on February 24, 2021
    Rebroadcast on Purim 5783, March 7, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    11 min
  • Inspiration from the Priestly Garments [Parshas Tetzaveh]
    Mar 2 2026
    In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a profound insight on Parshas Tetzaveh, inspired by a D'var Torah from Rabbi Blachman (Jerusalem). The Parsha describes the High Priest's vestments twice mentioning the names of the 12 tribes: once on the Choshen (breastplate) with individual stones over the heart, and again on the Avnei Shoham (shoulder stones of remembrance). Why the duplication? The sages explain it as a model for every Jew, especially the Kohen: the heart must first hold deep love and concern for every fellow Jew (as exemplified by Aharon, the ultimate lover and pursuer of peace – ohev shalom v'rodef shalom), feeling their pain and joy internally. But love alone is insufficient; the shoulders must carry their burdens – sharing grief, challenges, and responsibilities as one's own ("you're my brother, you ain't heavy").Rabbi Wolbe illustrates this with stories: Aharon reconciling disputants through empathy; Reb Chaim Shmulevitz's Yom Kippur teaching that one who hasn't lost sleep over the Jewish people's spiritual/physical plight has no business praying; feeling Hashem's "pain" over estranged children; carrying joy (dancing alone for a distant student's wedding); and practical empathy (e.g., yellow ribbons for hostages as reminders to feel others' pain). He stresses avoiding desensitization in a news-saturated world, pursuing peace without quarrels (a Kohen in conflict couldn't serve), and living beyond oneself – feeling others' burdens while maintaining joy (as the Shechinah rests only in simcha). The episode ends with a discussion on positive communication (e.g., the Still Face experiment, praise boosting performance) and responding to children's needs through listening rather than waiting for tantrums._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Peter & Becky BotvinRecorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 27, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on March 2, 2026_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org 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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#JewishInspiration, #Parsha, #Tetzaveh, #Choshen, #Shoham, #Aharon, #Shalom, #CarryTheBurden, #KlalYisrael, #PursuePeace, #Empathy, #OneNationOneSoul, #JewishUnity ★ Support this podcast ★
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    21 min