Unlock the sacred power of your words and journey with us into the spiritual heart of Judaism's teachings on speech. This episode weaves a tapestry of timeless wisdom, as we explore the profound impact that words can have on our spiritual connection and the world around us. The Talmud (Sotah 42a) serves as our guide, illuminating the pitfalls of negative speech such as slander and flattery, and revealing how they sever our ties with the divine.

Throughout this episode, we share personal reflections and scriptural insights that underscore the significance of language in our everyday lives. We delve into the spiritual essence of the Hebrew alphabet, focusing on how the letters "hay" and "vav" embody the divine attributes of forgiveness and truth. By understanding these concepts, we come to appreciate the role of speech in nurturing our bond with the Creator and the necessity of honesty in our interactions. The conversation also touches upon mitzvot ase and mitzvot lo ta'ase, highlighting how our words can either draw us closer to or push us further from the divine presence.

Concluding on an uplifting note, the episode stresses the importance of kindness, the transformative power of judging others favorably, and the profound influence our speech can have in shaping a purposeful existence. We reflect on tales from the Torah and wisdom from King David, emphasizing that positive narratives and ethical communication are vital Jewish imperatives. By the end of our journey together, you'll be inspired to harness the transformative power of your words and to be ever receptive to the subtle divine messages that guide our lives.

The Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe 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.

Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 23, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 8, 2024
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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!

Discover the transformative power of words and unlock the secret to positive communication with the Laws of Proper Speech. Throughout the journey of this episode, we examine the profound impact of our spoken words and the biblical directives that steer us away from the temptation of negative talk. Learn from the Chofetz Chaim's virtuous example, a beacon of how to mingle sociability with the sanctity of speech, as we dissect the catastrophic tale of Doeg the Edomite—a stark illustration of the devastation that can be wrought by a seemingly innocuous whisper.

Venture further into the pernicious realm of Lashon Hara, the heinous act of spreading truthful negativity, and understand why being a passive recipient can be as damaging as being the purveyor of such talk. The episode draws parallels with the biblical account of the spies, whose slanderous report about the land of Israel led to dire consequences for an entire generation. As we unravel the historical threads leading to Tisha B'Av, the narrative compels us to recognize the magnitude of our responsibility in nurturing an environment free from the toxicity of slanderous discourse.

Finally, let's delve into the power of self-perception and the boundless love that Hashem holds for each of us. Through the inspiring narrative of the Chofetz Chaim's humility and self-awareness, we are reminded of the importance of maintaining positive self-talk and cherishing the divine affection that envelops us. As we conclude with a heartfelt prayer for wisdom and closeness to the Divine, may this episode be a guiding light towards a life filled with joy, love, and the blissful dance that arises from recognizing our inherent worth in the eyes of Hashem.

The Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe 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.

Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 16, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 2, 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.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
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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!

Discover the sacred art of preserving dignity and embracing humility as we traverse the teachings of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch on Good Middos. This episode is a deep dive into the ethical imperative of not humiliating others, revealing the spiritual peril akin to murder when shaming someone publicly. Through the narrative of Tamar and Judah, we uncover the profound importance of maintaining one's dignity, even at great personal risk. Our conversation extends these ancient wisdoms to the minutiae of daily life, from the roads we drive on to the disputes that challenge our relationships, urging a compassionate and dignified approach in every interaction.

Embellishing our exploration, heartwarming tales from the Torah world exemplify the transformative power of patience, trust, and the benefit of the doubt. We recount the Ktav Sofer's story and a rabbi's discreet handling of a student's error, both instances that inspire life-altering outcomes. The episode also illuminates the delicate craft of parenting and education, where positive reinforcement and sensitivity in teaching are pivotal for raising confident and engaged learners. These strategies are not reserved for the young alone but are timeless wisdoms that can influence our relationships with all ages.

As we approach the resolution of this enriching journey, we ponder on the healing power of apologies, the art of managing expectations, and the beauty of selfless giving. Culminating with reflections on the spiritual preparation for the holiday of Shavuot, we weave together anecdotes and teachings that highlight the blessings of giving without expectation and the virtue of forgiveness. Join us as we offer a prayer for our continued learning and the elevation of our souls, striving for a world brimming with kindness and understanding, one dignified interaction at a time.

The Living Jewishly Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe 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.

Download & Print the Living Jewishly Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 9, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 22, 2024
_____________
DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
_____________
SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

• NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/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
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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!

Unlock the transformative secrets of character development and learn how your surroundings can shape your journey to self-improvement. This episode delves into the rich teachings of the halachic commandment to love every Jew as oneself, revealing how this edict is not merely about kindness but a roadmap for living a meaningful life. We traverse the wisdom of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, bringing to light the profound impact of respecting others' honor and possessions and the spiritual pitfalls of seeking glory at another's expense. Rabbi Mota Frank's tale with a defiant teen at a Shabbos meal poignantly exemplifies the power of grace under pressure.

Discover the healing potency of open communication and the heavy toll of negative speech, as we navigate through the emotional terrain of relationships and community dynamics. We unravel the Torah's guidance on handling disputes, such as the anecdote involving a neighborhood and a Mohel, to demonstrate the necessity of direct, heartfelt discussion in mending fences and fostering enduring friendships. This conversation underscores the benevolent nature of most individuals, encouraging clarity and forgiveness as pathways to connection and understanding.

Wrapping up, we probe the delicate art of offering constructive criticism and the moral imperative to address wrongdoing with compassion. Sharing personal experiences and the sagacity of our forebears, we learn how to approach rebuke with care, ensuring it is private, gentle, and truly in the service of the other's personal growth. We also touch upon the ethical quandary of whether to inform a spouse about one's culinary preferences, weaving in a story about a rabbi's silent sacrifice for marital harmony. Tune in for an episode that will leave you contemplating how best to support others in their journey towards betterment, with kindness and wisdom at the forefront.

The Living Jewishly Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe 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.

Download & Print the Living Jewishly Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on May 2, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 15, 2024
_____________
DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
_____________
SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

• NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/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!

Our latest Everyday Judaism episode takes you through the nuanced teachings of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, shedding light on the art of mindful communication. Through a mix of sage advice and personal musings, we delve into the incredible potential of speech to both heal and harm, underscoring our responsibility to wield this power with care. Whether it's a comforting word or a necessary discussion, the episode emphasizes the importance of intention in our conversations and the pitfalls of idle chatter.

Life is often a tightrope walk between extremes, searching for that sweet spot called balance. We share insights on the risks of taking things too far, even in the name of piety, as Judaism teaches us the value of moderation. From the story of the Nazir to the wisdom imparted by the Chafetz Chaim ZT"L, we explore the notion that living a well-rounded life, indulging in life's allowable joys without overstepping, is what leads to true fulfillment. Join us as we reflect on the dangers of self-imposed austerity and the embracing of a life guided by the Torah's rich tapestry of permitted pleasures.

We round out our discussion with a look at the powerful influence of our environment and the formative role of parenting. The episode brings to life stories illustrating how surroundings can shape behavior, with an emphasis on the need for discerning the media and influences we allow into our lives. We also touch upon the implications of these influences on a child's character, resilience, and how they navigate the social landscape. Listen in as we weave through these topics, inviting you to consider how we can foster growth and instill enduring values that echo the essence of Jewish inspiration.

The Living Jewishly Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe 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.

Download & Print the Living Jewishly Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on April 25, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 8, 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.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!

Join us as we unpack the essence of character development according to Jewish wisdom. Discover the transformative paths laid out by the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch and Rambam's Hilchos De'os, guiding us away from negative traits like anger and toward a persona ripe for the Torah's teachings.

This episode offers a tapestry of tales that celebrate the art of balance, an art deeply rooted in Jewish tradition. From understanding the importance of enjoying life's pleasures without overindulgence to recognizing the power behind every blessing we recite. These stories aren't just passed down through time—they are lived experiences that resonate with the wisdom of the Talmud and rabbis.

As we navigate the waters of life, balance remains a steadfast compass. This episode delves into the Jewish perspective on maintaining a cheerful disposition, managing our resources wisely, and fostering humility as a bulwark against arrogance. We explore how these principles not only shape our character but our actions, our relationships, and our approach to the divine. So, tune in for an enriching conversation that will leave you inspired to balance your emotions and actions in alignment with Jewish teachings, as we prepare our hearts and minds for the ultimate gift of Torah.

The Living Jewishly Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe 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.

Download & Print the Living Jewishly Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing

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

• 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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this episode 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 April 18, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 1, 2024