Everyday Judaism · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

TORCH
  • 4.7 (14)
  • JUDAISM
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Everyday Judaism Podcast (formerly Living Jewishly Podcast) is dedicated to learning and understanding the laws and basic how-to of daily Jewish living. Presented by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe in a simple and concise manner, easy for anyone to understand and connect. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner.

  1. 1D AGO · BONUS

    🎤 Ask Away Junior Edition: Kids Ask, Rabbi Answers [The Q&A Series]

    In this special Ask Away “Junior Edition” of the Everyday Judaism podcast, recoded during the Super Bowl Halftime, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe opens the floor to a group of young yeshiva students (ages 12–14) who ask thoughtful, deep questions on halacha, Torah, and Jewish life. The rabbi answers with warmth, clarity, and practical wisdom, often tying responses to broader lessons in emunah, mitzvot, and character. Key questions & answers: Aryeh Buchwald: Why does Hashem put us in Olam HaZeh instead of straight to Olam HaBa? — To remove “bread of shame” (nahama d’kisufa). If Hashem gave reward without earning it, we’d feel shame. This world lets us earn Olam HaBa through free will (bechira), overcoming challenges, and building a real relationship with Hashem.Shlomo Chaim Lieberman: Why is Yisro called “Chosen Moshe” and “Kohein Midyon” after his introduction, not just “Yisro”? — Yisro had seven names/titles. He explored every religion before discovering truth in Judaism and converting. The titles highlight his journey and stature—he overcame big challenges to join Klal Yisroel.Ephraim Yaghobian: Can a Jew work cleaning a church room that doesn’t contain Avodah Zarah/Idolatry (e.g., priest’s office)? — Generally permissible if no actual avodah zarah is present and no direct involvement in idolatry. Still, a God-fearing person may prefer to avoid any connection or send a non-Jewish worker instead. Each case should be asked to a local Orthodox rabbi.Yitzi Wolbe: Why does Gemara argue back and forth instead of just giving the halacha? — Judaism is about seeking truth (emes), not blind faith. Questions are essential—every page of Gemara has questions & answers to verify and deepen understanding. Other religions often forbid questions; Yiddishkeit welcomes them because truth withstands scrutiny.David Balsam: Why wait 6 hours after meat but only 30 minutes after milk? — Meat flavor lingers longer (stays between teeth); milk clears quickly. Hard cheese (e.g., Swiss) follows meat’s waiting time because its flavor also persists.Shlomo Wolbe: Why so many different Minhagim (customs) if all Jews follow Torah? — Halacha gives a framework; minhagim are individual/community expressions of fulfilling mitzvot. Everyone must follow core halacha, but variations (e.g., hat styles, prayer customs) are allowed as long as they’re rooted in Torah. Hashem loves diversity within unity—12 tribes each had their lane.Aryeh Buchwald: Is it allowed to pretend not to be home when a meshulach (charity collector) knocks? — Avoid outright lying (“I’m not home”). Better to say “I’m busy now” or “not able right now.” Don’t say “I have nothing” (opens ayin hara). Giving with a smile is a huge privilege—Hashem sometimes appears as the poor person to see how we treat Him.Shlomo Chaim Lieberman: Eruv on Shabbos—why do we need it? — Biblical prohibition against carrying from private to public domain. Chazal created eruv as a rabbinic solution: string around neighborhood makes it one domain. One of seven major rabbinic enactments (others include netilat yadayim, Shabbos candles). Observe meticulously—many communities have multiple eruvim.The rabbi praises the boys’ depth and encourages asking questions—Judaism thrives on seeking truth. Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This 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 February 8, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Edited by Yitzi Wolbe and Released as Podcast on February 16, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@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!! 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:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #Superbowl, #Halftime  ★ Support this podcast ★

    29 min

  2. 2D AGO

    Ep. 89 - Laws of Proper Conduct for a Meal - 2 (Siman 42)

    In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 42: the laws of proper conduct during a meal (etiquette, dignity, sensitivity, and practical halachot after hamotzi/netilat yadayim). Key halachot: Leaving the table — Don’t leave during/after meal before Birkas Hamazon (even briefly); if you do, new hamotzi needed unless 72 minutes or someone remains seated (meal continues).Intention to continue elsewhere — If planned at hamotzi, meal continues without new blessing (eat kezayis bread there); but avoid this—recite Birkas Hamazon promptly.Napping/interruptions — Brief nap or restroom doesn’t break meal (wash hands again); no new blessing needed if returning soon.Women & wine — A woman whose husband is absent shouldn’t drink wine/alcohol in public (intoxication risk); if she’s accustomed to drinking with him, she may drink her normal amount.Guests & host food — Don’t take host’s food and give it to their children (may leave host embarrassed/short); ok if abundant. Don’t demand food—wait for invitation.Host’s table — Follow host’s customs; don’t rush or dictate meal pace.The rabbi shares inspiring stories (e.g., son resisting babka before Kiddush; feeding a homeless man for years; guest customs differing between Ashkenazi/Sephardi homes) and stresses spiritual depth: meals are for bonding, dignity, self-control, and gratitude—not gluttony or waste. Eat with nechbadus (respect), sensitivity, and awareness of others. The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #31. _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This 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 February 1, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 15, 2026_____________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!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

    22 min

  3. 6D AGO

    Ep. 88 - 🎤 Ask Away! #30: Jewish Likability, Dignified Eating & Business Ethics [The Q&A Series]

    The Everyday Judaism podcast's "Ask Away" series, episode 30, hosted by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH in Houston, features live audience questions on practical Jewish life, ethics, and halacha. Rabbi Wolbe addresses concerns like dealing with someone who studies Torah mockingly (advocating kindness, caution in associations, and seeking exemplary teachers who live their teachings), dignified eating habits (avoiding oversized bites for modesty, per halachic guidelines), clarifying biblical details from Egypt (Egyptians' gifts post-plagues), and antisemitism as a divine wake-up call to embrace Judaism and await Moshiach for restored favor among nations. Other topics include Argentina's Chief Rabbi's reaffirmation of a century-old ban on local conversions (requiring them to be performed in Israel for validity, rooted in historical takanah to prevent insincere or intermarriage-driven cases), intermarriage scenarios (halacha prioritizes authentic commitment to mitzvot over "love," with rare exceptions where conversion strengthens observance), ethical business dilemmas (avoid or exit unscrupulous environments to protect one's integrity), and practical halachot like changing "Magdil" to "Migdal" in bentching on Shabbat/Musaf days, sipping wine slowly (not gulping, except at the Seder where it's paced), geniza burial for sacred items with Hashem's name, and teaching children with heartfelt love (linking "lev" in Shema to emotional education). Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes introspection over blame amid global challenges, the power of mitzvot to build character (e.g., overcoming urges), and the warmth of community Torah study even in freezing Houston weather. The episode ends with gratitude for participants and a call to sponsor more content via torchweb.org. Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This 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 January 25, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 11, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@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!! 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:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #dignity, #Exodus, #wakeup, #geniza, #burial ★ Support this podcast ★

    37 min

  4. FEB 8

    Ep. 87 - Laws of Proper Conduct for a Meal - 1 (Siman 42)

    In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 42: proper conduct during a meal (after hamotzi and netilat yadayim). Key halachot: Feed animals first — One who owns animals/fowl must feed them before eating (Torah obligation); humans come first for drinking.No gluttony — Don’t eat/drink while standing; eat/drink in moderation; table must be clean/covered; don’t hold large pieces (>kezayis/egg-size) in hand while eating; don’t gulp wine (2–3 sips ideal unless cup is tiny/large).No interrupting speech — Don’t converse (even Torah) while eating (choking danger); permissible to speak Torah after eating bread but before Birkas Hamazon.Bread etiquette — Don’t bite bread and return it to table/plate (repulsive); don’t throw bread; don’t use bread to support dishes; don’t wash hands with wine/other beverages (degrades them).Salt on table — Mitzvah to have salt (table = altar; preserves covenant; repels evil); dip challah in salt.Food in hand — Don’t eat large quantities directly from hand; tear with other hand (degrades bread).Cleanliness & dignity — Don’t sit on sacks of fruit (degrades them); pick up fallen food; don’t feed fit-for-human food to animals (degrades it); if used medicinally, permissible even if repulsive.Aroma & craving — If food/drink has savory aroma and you crave it, give server a bite immediately (saliva produced is harmful if unmet).Serving & sharing — Don’t give food someone else touched in covered areas; don’t drink from cup and pass it (repulsive); prominent person eats first.The rabbi stresses spiritual depth: food is a gift from Hashem—eat with dignity, gratitude, and self-control (e.g., personal story of son resisting babka temptation before Kiddush). Meals are for bonding, not just sustenance—eat together, wait for others, show nechbadus (respect).  The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #30. _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This 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 January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________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!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

    34 min

  5. FEB 4

    Ep. 86 - 🎤 Ask Away! #29: God, Gluten-Free & Grandchildren [The Q&A Series]

    In Ask Away #29 of the Everyday Judaism podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers a wide range of live and emailed questions on practical halacha, Jewish identity, and intentional living: Seven-grain bread — Still hamotzi (bread) because it is made from the five grains + water with bread-like consistency, texture, and taste—even with added grains/flavors.Pretzel bagels/pretzel buns — Treated as bread (hamotzi) due to consistency; the pretzel topping/flavor doesn’t change the halachic status.Matzah — Hamotzi (considered bread, just unleavened); crackers generally fall into mezonot (pas haba b’kisnin/snack category).Matriarchs & grandchildren — No specific tradition explains why Sarah, Rivka, and Rachel never saw grandchildren (Isaac married after Sarah’s death; Rivka died before grandchildren returned; Rachel died en route to Bethlehem). Leah likely saw at least Asenat (Dina’s daughter). Rabbi emphasizes the privilege of seeing grandchildren/great-grandchildren today and grandparents’ responsibility to influence positively without overstepping (e.g., no interference in naming).Naming customs — Parents alone decide children’s names (no parental/grandparental veto); alleged Midrash says parents receive prophetic guidance at birth/bris. Adding a second name (e.g., after a deceased relative) is common when appropriate.God/Hashem in English — Many poskim consider “God” (G-O-D) equivalent to writing/saying Hashem’s name in English—avoid casual use (“oh my God”); say “Hashem,” “Almighty,” or “Creator” instead. In blessings (e.g., Amidah in English), use “Hashem” with same kavana (focus/intent) as Ado-nai.Public Hamotzi & children — Educational (teaches brachot), but ideally includes hand-washing and actual bread-eating; without these, it’s not proper netilat yadayim/hamotzi.Gluten-free bread — If made from five grains + water and bread-like, hamotzi; pure potato starch “bread” is not hamotzi (mezonot or shehakol depending on form).The rabbi stresses halachic precision (e.g., bread vs. snack distinctions), gratitude for seeing grandchildren, and avoiding casual use of God’s name in English. Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #86) 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 January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 4, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@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!! 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:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #Hamotzi, #Bread, #Blessings, #Matzah, #Pretzel, #Bagel, #NamingChildren, #God ★ Support this podcast ★

    46 min

  6. FEB 1

    Ep. 85 - Laws of Breaking Bread (Siman 41)

    In this Everyday Judaism episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues Kitzur Shulchan Aruch Siman 40 (laws of netilat yadayim before bread) and transitions to Siman 41 (breaking bread & hamotzi blessing). Key Halachot covered: Invalid waters — Salty, putrid, bitter, or muddy water is disqualified if unfit even for a dog to drink.Chatzitzah (interposition) — Hands must be free of barriers (remove rings, clean under long nails, remove substantial dirt/paint); incidental staining (e.g., ink) is not a chatzitzah, but substantial matter is. For certain occupations (painters, dyers, butchers), minor work-related staining is permitted unless it covers most of the hand. Dressings/band-aids are not chatzitzah if painful to remove (same for mikvah).Dipping foods — Wash hands (no blessing) before eating anything commonly dipped in liquid or still moist from liquid; only the seven liquids (wine, honey, olive oil, milk/whey, medicinal blood, water) trigger this—fruit juices/liquors usually do not.Preserves & butters — Hardened coatings are not liquid (no washing); soft/moist ones require it.Hamotzi & breaking bread — Recite hamotzi on actual bread (five grains + water, bread-like consistency); pas haba b'kisnin (snacks like pretzels, cake, danishes) get mezonot. Cut from choicest/hardest part (respect for blessing); minimize delay between blessing and eating (no interruption > ~12–30 seconds). Hold bread with all 10 fingers (corresponding to 10 mitzvot in bread production); on Shabbos, lift both loaves when saying Hashem's name.Salt on table — Mitzvah to have salt (table = altar; salt preserves covenant; repels evil forces); dip challah in salt.Order & customs — Head of household washes last to minimize delay; eat from blessed piece first; no feeding animals from blessed bread.The rabbi emphasizes spiritual depth: washing humbles us before bread (countering arrogance of "my power made this wealth"); hamotzi reminds us of Hashem's constant renewal of creation. Episode ends transitioning to Ask Away #29. The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #29. _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This 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 January 11, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 1, 2026_____________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!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #Hamotzi, #BreakingBread, #NetilatYadayim, #Challah, #SaltOnTable ★ Support this podcast ★

    42 min

  7. JAN 29

    Ep. 84 - 🎤 Ask Away! #28: Making Aliyah, Internet Temptations and Hennas [The Q&A Series]

    In this Ask Away #28 episode of Everyday Judaism, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers live and emailed questions on practical halacha and deeper Jewish life: Netilat yadayim technique — One continuous flow is ideal; your wrist-to-fingers method is fine if uninterrupted.Running water / faucets — Requires human force (koach gavra); turn faucet on/off repeatedly so first spurt washes each hand.Morning blessings order — Body needs first (restroom), then wash hands + Al Netilat Yadayim, Asher Yatzar, Elokai Neshama (attach them); Modeh Ani immediately upon waking.Aliyah in current times — Massive wave of aliyah is real and prophetic; if livelihood transfers easily, move (great mitzvah—every moment/step in Eretz Yisrael is a mitzvah); if not, stay and be intentional (e.g., spread Torah, as Rabbi does in Houston). Cultural/language barriers for children over 6 are real; prepare spiritually (Torah growth, closeness to Hashem) for Moshiach—have a "go bag" ready.Tattoos & henna — Tattoos forbidden biblically; henna generally permitted (ask rabbi); neither blocks hand-washing unless substantial chatzitzah.Infidelity & King Solomon — Torah forbids casual intimacy outside marriage; Solomon’s 1,000 wives/concubines is a cautionary tale—he later warns against it. Rabbinic decree limits men to one wife at a time. Modern promiscuity/infidelity rises with internet; use filters/accountability, delete temptations, prioritize emotional depth via niddah laws.Shabbat automatic toilets — Triggering sensors is problematic (creative labor); if unavoidable, some poskim permit as gram/indirect; best avoid or use manual options.Finding a rabbi — Pursue actively (run after them); persistence (e.g., persistent voicemails) works; rabbi guides halacha/life; don’t wait for one to chase you.The rabbi shares personal stories (mikvah healing soul-leaving sensation, persistent rabbi outreach) and stresses intentional Judaism, community, and using modern tools for good while guarding against harm. Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #82) 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 January 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 29, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@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!! 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:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Mikvah, #Rabbi, #Tzedakah ★ Support this podcast ★

    51 min

  8. JAN 26

    Ep. 83 - Laws of Washing Hands for a Meal - 2 (Siman 40)

    In this Everyday Judaism episode (continuing Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe completes the laws of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing before bread/meals). Key halachot include: Invalid waters: Salty, putrid, bitter, or muddy water is disqualified if unfit even for a dog to drink.Clean hands requirement: Hands must be free of interpositions (chatzitzah)—remove rings, clean under long nails, scrape off substantial dirt/paint; incidental coloring (e.g., ink stains) is not a chatzitzah, but substantial matter (paint, grease) is.For certain occupations (painters, dyers, butchers, scribes): Minor staining from their work is not a chatzitzah unless it covers most of the hand.Dressings/wounds: Band-aids or painful-to-remove coverings are not chatzitzah (same rule applies to mikvah immersion).Dipping foods: Wash hands (no blessing) before eating anything commonly dipped in liquid or still moist from liquid; seven liquids qualify (wine, honey, olive oil, milk/whey, blood [medicinal only], water); fruit juices or liquors generally do not.Preserves & butters: Hardened sugar/honey coatings are not liquid (no washing needed); soft/moist ones are.Hand foods vs. utensil foods: Dip hand-eaten foods require washing; spoon/fork foods do not if no hand contact.Practical notes: Soap is not required; focus on water coverage and one continuous flow.The rabbi stresses spiritual depth: washing humbles us before bread (countering "my power made this wealth") and prepares us for holiness. The episode transitions to Ask Away #28, inviting questions on intentional Judaism. The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #28. _____________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 Lerner Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode (Ep. #83) 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 January 4, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on January 26, 2026_____________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!_____________#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

    28 min
See All (106)

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

The Everyday Judaism Podcast (formerly Living Jewishly Podcast) is dedicated to learning and understanding the laws and basic how-to of daily Jewish living. Presented by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe in a simple and concise manner, easy for anyone to understand and connect. This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner.

Information