Épisodes

  • Modern Innovation vs. Ancestral Wisdom (Parsha Power: Toldos) 5785
    Nov 18 2025

    Join us as we explore the timeless values and ethics rooted in our heritage through the lens of this week's Torah portion of Toldos. We reflect on the lineage of Isaac, the son of Abraham, and discuss how connecting with our ancestors' teachings can guide us in today's fast-paced world. Amidst the rapid advancements in technology and science, we examine the disparity between modern innovation and the moral growth (or decay) of our society. Through the stories of our forebears, like Isaac who honored his father's legacy by naming wells like his father did, we discover how we can maintain our individuality while upholding the principles of previous generations. The episode also features a touching story about Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetsky, emphasizing the Jewish tradition of revering elders and the value of proximity to the source of Torah.

    We also address the complexities of modern society's approach to gender and identity, questioning the ethics behind contemporary medical practices such as hormone blockers for transgender children. By rediscovering traditional values and religious teachings, we gain insights into balancing innovation with heritage. Furthermore, the episode highlights the significance of unplugging from technology to reconnect with our cultural heritage. Sharing personal experiences of disconnecting from digital distractions, we uncover the enriching impact of immersing ourselves in ancestral wisdom. As we navigate the challenges of modernity, we invite you to embrace and nurture the moral compass provided by past generations, ensuring our heritage continues to enrich our lives and those of future generations.

    _____________
    This episode (Ep 7.6) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Toldos is dedicated in Honor of Isaac Hersh & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

    Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 26, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 27, 2024
    _____________
    DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
    _____________
    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

    • NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.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!

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    25 min
  • Building a Strong Spiritual Future (Parsha In-Focus: Toldos) 5784
    Nov 17 2025

    Imagine for a moment, if every good deed you did was a deposit into a spiritual retirement account, a 'spiritual 401K', storing up your connection with God for the future. That's the fascinating concept we'll be uncovering today, rooted deeply in the story of Jacob and Esav, and their debate over the value of a birthright. We'll dissect their story, and how Esav's hunger-driven decision to sell his birthright for a bowl of lentil soup echoes in our lives today. This episode takes us on a journey through the ages, delving into this riveting discourse, unravelling the profound implications of our choices today on our spiritual future.

    When you're faced with a choice between immediate gratification and long-term fulfillment, what do you choose? We'll explore this question, drawing on the wisdom of the Torah and the struggles of King David, King Solomon, and Moses. We'll contrast the fleeting pleasure of material goods with the enduring joy and connection that comes from focusing on life's real values. By the end of our discussion, we hope you'll come away with a deepened understanding of how these ancient teachings can illuminate your path to true happiness and protection from harm. Join us as we journey through these spiritual concepts, seeking to reveal how a focus on our spiritual birthright can guide us closer to God and true contentment.
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    This episode (Ep 6.6) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Toldos is dedicated in Honor of Peter & Becky Botvin & our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

    Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 14, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 15, 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/episodes
    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.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!

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    18 min
  • 1.6 Parshas Toldos Review: The Tale of Two Nations
    Nov 16 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.6) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Toldos offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

    This episode is dedicated in honor of Michael & Linda Friedberg who have been solid stalwarts of TORCH and its mission!

    00:00 Parsha Summary
    8:15 Important Lessons Segment

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

    *****

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

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

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to 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 the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 24, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 24, 2022

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    22 min
  • Building a Marriage That Lasts Beyond a Lifetime (Parsha Pearls: Chayei Sara)
    Nov 13 2025
    In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshat Chayei Sarah (Genesis 23–25), beginning with Sarah’s lifespan—“100 years and 20 years and 7 years”—which Rashi interprets as her retaining the innocence of a 20-year-old at age 100 and the beauty of a 7-year-old at age 20. The parsha immediately transitions from her passing to Abraham sending Eliezer to find a wife for Isaac, teaching that marriage must be built with the end in mind: not just someone to live with, but someone to die with, focused on long-term purpose and legacy. Abraham, the icon of chesed (kindness), seeks a wife embodying kindness to balance Isaac’s natural gevurah (sternness) inherited from Sarah. Rabbi Wolbe stresses that the patriarchs’ actions are binding signs for us: prioritize good character over fleeting glamour, as external beauty fades but inner goodness endures.Rabbi Wolbe contrasts superficial “falling in love” (external attraction) with Torah-based matchmaking, where intellect precedes emotion—investigating character through references, teachers, and friends before ever meeting. True love (ahava) stems from hav (to give); the more one gives selflessly, the deeper the love grows. He urges couples to be givers, not takers, and to humble themselves like dust (lakol tia) to honor each other’s perspectives, creating a new unified “us” from two distinct individuals. The parsha’s repeated narrative emphasizes looking beyond surface miracles to inner essence—Rebecca’s proactive kindness to Eliezer and his camels proves her character. Marriage is Hashem’s tool for perfection: spouses challenge and elevate each other, building a unique harmony. Rabbi Wolbe shares personal anecdotes, including his son traveling from Lakewood to Montreal to pursue his future wife, reinforcing that men must actively seek and invest effort. He closes with stories illustrating commitment for children’s sake and the Mishnah’s advice to marry young to avoid entrenched selfishness._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on November 11, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on November 13, 2025_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@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: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Marriage, #Relationships, #Soulmates, #Ancestors, #Sarah, #Abraham, #Kindness, #Unity, #Differences, #Isaac, #Rebecca, #Kindness, #Selflessness, #PersonalGrowth, #Partner, #Purpose, #Priorities, #Therapy, #LifePartner ★ Support this podcast ★
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    53 min
  • Everything ... EVERYTHING is for the Good (Parsha Power: Chayei Sara)
    Nov 11 2025

    What if every challenge in your life was actually a hidden blessing? Join us as we explore Parshas Chayei Sara, examining the intriguing layers of Sarah's life as depicted in the Torah. We delve into the seemingly redundant phrasing within the scriptures and discover the profound insights it unveils about the nature of Sarah's journey. With Rashi's guidance, we unravel the symbolism behind her age being divided into distinct stages of 100, 20, and 7 years, and reflect on how each era encapsulated her enduring purity and beauty. This episode invites you to ponder the Talmudic principle that assures us of the inherent goodness in everything Hashem orchestrates, despite how limited our perspective might be.

    Continuing our exploration, we turn our focus to the Talmudic teachings that encourage us to recognize God's role as the ultimate judge, even amidst life's adversities. We talk about the practice of beginning each day with gratitude, acknowledging that our very existence has purpose and is part of a grander divine plan. This perspective empowers us to confront life's challenges with optimism and recognize our potential to spread goodness. By seeing both joy and difficulty as integral elements of our journey, we're inspired to fulfill our unique roles and continually offer our thanks and praises to Hashem for the blessings we experience.

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    This episode (Ep 7.5) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Chayei Sarah is dedicated in Honor of Bruce Schimmel & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

    Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 22, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 23, 2024
    _____________
    DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
    _____________
    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

    • NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.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!

    ★ Support this podcast ★
    Voir plus Voir moins
    17 min
  • Embracing Jewish Pride (Parsha In-Focus: Chayei Sara)
    Nov 10 2025

    Discover the true power of Jewish pride as we passionately discusses how the Jewish people should take ownership of their heritage and their unique relationship with God. Listen in as we use the example of Abraham purchasing the land of Chevron to illustrate how we can elevate physical objects to serve a spiritual cause. We encourage our listeners to take pride in their responsibility of being a light to the nations, and highlight the importance of using liberalism as a tool to bring people closer to God, not to distance them.

    We goes on to emphasize the importance of direct communication with God and expressing our Jewish pride. In our daily prayer, we communicate directly with God, showing the world that there's no need for intermediaries in our connection to Hashem. We underscore the significance of not hiding our Jewish identity and are urged to wear our flag proudly. We conclude with a prayer for protection, guidance, and a speedy return to Jerusalem for all. This conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of standing tall in our faith and serving as God's people.

    This episode (Ep 6.5) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Chayei Sara is dedicated in Honor of Joanna Botvin & our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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


    ****

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

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


    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories to 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 November 7, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 9, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    14 min
  • 1.5 Parshas Chayei Sarah Review: Life Lessons from Abraham and Sara
    Nov 9 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.5) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Chayei Sarah offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

    This episode is dedicated in honor of Tom & Bobbi Asarch who have been solid stalwarts of TORCH and its mission!

    00:00 Parsha Summary
    15:00 Important Lessons Segment

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

    *****

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

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

    Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to 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 the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on November 17, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 17, 2022

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    28 min
  • Open Doors to Divine Assistance Through Giving (Parsha Power: Vayeira)
    Nov 6 2025

    Have you ever wondered why we often promise to give more when we have more, yet fail to act when the moment arrives? Join us as we unravel the profound lessons from Abraham's story, where true generosity shines through personal pain and adversity. Despite recovering from circumcision, Abraham eagerly welcomed guests with open arms, illustrating that genuine giving transcends mere wealth. We’ll challenge you to consider how exercising your 'generosity muscle' can lead to unexpected blessings and divine opportunities, much like the Jerusalem philanthropist whose unwavering commitment to charity opened doors to heavenly assistance.

    As we navigate these timeless narratives, we also explore Abraham's relentless pursuit of spiritual growth—even in the sweltering heat of the day. Discover how his eagerness to serve Hashem at the tent’s doorway serves as a guiding light for embracing spiritual opportunities in our own lives. We delve into the power of action and the faith required to observe mitzvot like Shabbos and tefillin, with a sincere wish for clarity and the strength to follow divine guidance. Through stories and reflections, you'll find inspiration to nurture your spiritual commitments and unlock the blessings that await.

    _____________
    This episode (Ep 7.4) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeira is dedicated in Honor of David & Susan Marbin & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

    Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on November 19, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on November 26, 2024
    _____________
    DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
    _____________
    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

    • NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    • Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.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!

    ★ Support this podcast ★
    Voir plus Voir moins
    11 min