Parsha Review Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

TORCH

A refreshing and clear review of each Parsha in the Torah presented by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

  1. 12H AGO

    God Wants Your Heart (Parsha In-Focus: Terumah) 5784

    Have you ever considered that the true value of a gift lies not in its size but in the sincerity with which it's given? Join us as we traverse the terrain of heartfelt generosity, inspired by the Parsha of Terumah. We unravel the Torah's teachings on the contributions to the Tabernacle, discovering how giving enriches the giver immeasurably. In this episode, we reflect on the enigmatic notion that to give is to 'take,' and how this paradox sheds light on the intrinsic worth and intention behind our offerings. The tale of the Nesiim (The Tribe Leaders) pierces through the narrative, reminding us that the grandeur of a donation fades when the heart isn't fully in it. Let's explore together why Judaism views the act of giving as a deeply personal journey of purpose and kindness rather than a mere obligation. The story of a humble villager's weekly challahs left in the synagogue's ark weaves the thread for our next discussion, revealing the unforeseen consequences of his pure intentions and the profound divine lesson that ensues. We'll discuss the stirring impact of authentic actions and the reverberations our heartfelt prayers have in the heavens. As we contemplate the practice of taking challah in our modern world devoid of a Temple in Jerusalem, we honor the continued commitment to Hashem and learn humility through recognizing His role in our fortunes. Moreover, we discuss the powerful echoes of prophetic judgments, emphasizing the timeless message of divine justice and the spirit of dedication that bridges our past to our present. Prepare to be inspired by the vitality of your own intentions and the boundless depths of our collective spiritual journey. This episode (Ep 6.19) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Terumah is dedicated in Honor of our dear friend Bobbi Asarch & 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=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 13, 2024, 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 ★

    30 min
  2. 2D AGO

    2.7 Parshas Terumah Review: The Tabernacle Design

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 2.7) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Terumah offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. 00:10 - Parsha Summary04:00 - Important Lessons Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 23, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 23, 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 ★ ★ Support this podcast ★

    23 min
  3. 3D AGO

    Why We Fulfill Laws We Don’t Understand (Parsha Pearls: Mishpatim) 5786

    In this Parshas Mishpatim review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the practical, common-sense laws (mishpatim) that follow the Ten Commandments—laws that “make sense” (e.g., damages, theft, honesty, fair treatment)—and contrasts them with chukim (statutes with no apparent reason, like the red heifer). He emphasizes that all mitzvot must be fulfilled because they are God’s command—not only because we understand them. Key lessons: Mishpatim vs. Chukim — Mishpatim (rational laws) are intuitive (e.g., don’t steal, don’t murder); chukim defy human logic (King Solomon couldn’t understand the red heifer). Yet both are binding—do them because “God said so,” not just because they “feel good.”No compromise in halacha — Halacha never splits the difference (e.g., no “30-foot sukkah” between 20 and 40 feet). Mezuzah on a slant is the only compromise: vertical (one opinion) + horizontal (other) = slant, reminding us that peace in the home requires compromise.Fulfill mitzvot beyond understanding — Even meaningful mitzvot (e.g., Hanukkah candles for history/light) must be done because commanded—not just for emotion or meaning. When the “feeling” fades, the command remains.Parenting parallel — Children must sometimes obey “because I said so” (no explanation)—builds discipline. Same with mitzvot: intellect (chukim) overrides emotion when needed.Mezuzah as reminder — On a slant to symbolize compromise for shalom bayit (peace in the home). Every glance at a mezuzah reminds: do mitzvot for God’s sake, even when logic/emotion fails.The rabbi urges: don’t rationalize away mitzvot when the reason doesn’t resonate—fulfill them with joy and commitment because they are divine commands. Live intentionally: intellect + heart + command = true avodah. _____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman Download & 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 February 13, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 13, 2026 _____________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!! 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:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Mishpatim ★ Support this podcast ★

    23 min
  4. FEB 10

    The Doorpost's Testimony to Faith (Parsha Power: Mishpatim) 5785

    What does it truly mean to be free, and how can ancient laws illuminate our modern lives? Join us as we unravel the profound themes within Parshas Mishpatim, where we confront the challenging halacha of a thief sold into servitude. This episode takes you beyond the surface of these unique laws, exploring the symbolism of ear piercing by the doorpost—a ritual deeply intertwined with divine service and the miracles witnessed during the Exodus. Dive into the rich tapestry of lessons about freedom, servitude, and the spiritual responsibilities that accompany them. As we journey through these timeless teachings, we reflect on human fallibility and the power of repentance. The Torah's wisdom on embracing change and seeking a closer connection with God is brought to life through parables, metaphors, and an exploration of direct communication with Hashem. We discuss how mitzvahs transform into gifts of devotion, offering a path to forge a passionate bond with the divine. Concluding with a heartfelt blessing for Shabbos, we invite you to discover the spiritual opportunities that await and inspire service with love and intention._____________This episode (Ep 7.18) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mishpatim is dedicated in honor of our President & 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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 11, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 19, 2025_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:  NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.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!_____________#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Halacha, #Thief, #Slavery, #Freedom ★ Support this podcast ★

    24 min
  5. FEB 9

    Non-Kosher Money (Parsha In-Focus: Mishpatim) 5784

    Have you ever stood at the crossroads of a moral quandary in the checkout line, or found yourself pondering the ethical implications of a simple financial transaction? We unfold the layers of Parshas Mishpatim, we traverse beyond the thunderous echoes of Sinai to the whispering wisdom that governs our everyday commerce. The divine linkage is undeniable, and as the Torah says 'Ve'eileh', we connect the dots from the revered commandments to the statutes that guide our daily business ethics. Join us on a journey through the profound necessity of integrity in our financial dealings, taking cues from the sage advice of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein, and exploring stories that challenge our moral compasses. The checkout counter becomes an arena of ethical consideration as we share tales of mistaken refunds and the perplexing outcomes of automated systems that challenge our understanding of 'right' and 'wrong'. We recount personal experiences that resulted in a surprising monetary dilemma and the rabbinic wisdom that helped navigate through the grey. As we unpack the distinction between the spirit and the letter of Torah law, we reveal the importance of each mitzvah in forging our bond with the Divine. It's a reflective expedition into the heart of our heritage, aiming to live a life of financial transparency and certainty in the path of Hashem's commandments. This episode (Ep 6.18) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mishpatim is dedicated in Honor of our dear friend Yonah Nathan & 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=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 6, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 7, 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 ★

    23 min
  6. FEB 8

    2.6 Parshas Mishpatim Review: The Laws

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 2.6) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mishpatim offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This Episode Dedicated in Honor Alan Franklin Levin 00:10 - Parsha Summary13:13 - Important Lessons Download & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 16, 2023, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 16, 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 ★ ★ Support this podcast ★

    36 min
  7. FEB 5

    Knowledge, Not Faith—The Real Emunah (Parsha Pearls: Yisro) 5786

    In this Parshas Yisro review, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe highlights the unique honor of an entire Torah portion named after Yisro—Moshe’s father-in-law and a former spiritual leader of Midian—despite no portion being named for Moshe, Aaron, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, or Joseph. Yisro heard of the Exodus miracles (plagues, splitting of the sea, manna) and immediately acted: he left everything to join the Jewish people, converting and bringing practical wisdom (organizing judges). The rabbi stresses practical application over storytelling: the Torah is a “manual for living.” Yisro’s response teaches that true emunah is knowledge—not blind faith. We know Hashem exists because “Anochi Hashem Elokecha asher hotzeticha me’eretz Mitzrayim” (I am Hashem your God who took you out of Egypt)—personal, witnessed miracles prove it. Key lessons: Don’t assimilate to gain favor — The Jews in Egypt kept their names, language, and dress distinct, yet found chen (favor) in Egyptian eyes because Hashem granted it. Pride in authentic Judaism draws divine favor, which then reflects in others’ eyes.Jealousy (lo tachmod) opposes knowledge of Hashem — The first commandment (Anochi Hashem) and last (don’t covet) connect: coveting others’ blessings denies Hashem’s perfect design for you. Compare only to your own potential.Live with awe — Miracles (body, nature, technology, Israel’s survival) must never become routine. Recognize daily yesh me’ayin (creation from nothing) and thank Hashem constantly.Grandparents & legacy — Seeing grandchildren/great-grandchildren is a privilege; influence positively without overstepping (e.g., no naming interference).The rabbi urges bold Jewish pride (yarmulke, tzitzit, tefillin in public) and relentless self-improvement—don’t let others define your limits._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman Download & 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 February 3, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 5, 2026 _____________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!! 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:#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Shemos, #Yisro, #Anochi, #JewishPride, #NoCoveting, #EmunahKnowledge, #IntentionalJudaism ★ Support this podcast ★

    23 min
  8. FEB 3

    Building Bridges in the Jewish Community (Parsha Power: Yisro) 5785

    Discover the profound connection between unity and individuality as we unravel the experiences of the Jewish people at Mount Sinai. Witness how the public revelation of the Torah distinguished Judaism from other faiths with its unparalleled communal experience, as every individual stood united—"like one man, with one heart". Reflect on the powerful declaration of "Naaseh V'Nishma" and consider how this timeless unity remains relevant in today's world, amidst current debates and challenges within the Jewish community. Explore a moving narrative of transformation and love, as a rabbi's journey from extremism to embracing Ahavas Yisrael (love for every Jew) inspires us to prioritize compassion over conflict. Delve into the intricate dynamics of the yeshiva system, where choosing the right study partner is essential. Learn from Reb Chaim Shmulevitz about the delicate balance between personal Torah growth and sensitivity to others' feelings, illustrating the importance of nurturing harmonious relationships without compromising on individuality. As we reflect on the lessons of Mount Sinai, consider how we can foster a spirit of inclusivity and respect within our communities. Embrace the responsibility of rabbinic leadership and community members to uphold dignity and unity, ensuring that every Jew feels a sense of belonging. This episode serves as a heartfelt reminder of our collective identity under Hashem and the enduring power of compassion and unity in shaping our interactions and strengthening our communal bonds. _____________This episode (Ep 7.17) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Yisro is dedicated in honor of our President & 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=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on February 11, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on February 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.tansistor.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!_____________#Torah, #Parsha, #Exodus, #Unity, #MountSinai, #Community ★ Support this podcast ★

    32 min
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

A refreshing and clear review of each Parsha in the Torah presented by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

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