Episodios

  • From Yom Kippur to Sukkot: A Journey of Renewal

    From Yom Kippur to Sukkot: A Journey of Renewal
    Oct 5 2025
    In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the spiritual intensity of Yom Kippur and its seamless connection to Sukkot, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, selflessness, and renewal. He highlights how these holidays inspire a fresh start through acts of unity and service to Hashem. Key points include:Yom Kippur’s Holiness: Yom Kippur, known as Yom HaKadosh (the Holy Day), is a time when Hashem desires closeness with us through teshuvah (repentance). The Al Chet prayer combines sins done “be’ones” (by mistake) and “beratzon” (with desire), teaching that even intentional sins stem from momentary weakness due to the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). The Tefillah Zaka prayer, recited before Kol Nidre, acknowledges this struggle, asking forgiveness for succumbing to temptations despite our deeper desire to align with Hashem’s will.Divine Forgiveness: Citing Numbers 14:20 (“Vayomer Hashem salachti kidvarecha” – “I forgive you as you have requested”), Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that sincere requests for forgiveness are immediately granted by Hashem, unlike human forgiveness with preconditions. This assurance fosters joy, as seen in sages dancing post-Yom Kippur, feeling unburdened of sins.Sukkot’s Role: Sukkot, beginning September 25, 2025, is not a “forgotten holiday” but a vital demonstration of Yom Kippur’s renewal. Leaving one’s home for the sukkah symbolizes breaking old habits and starting anew, embracing discomfort (e.g., Houston’s heat or rain) to avoid complacency. The four species (lulav, etrog, hadas, arava) represent unity among diverse Jews, while the 70 offerings for the nations reflect the Jewish mission to model ethics and morality globally.Selflessness on Yom Kippur: Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of responding to a Hatzalah call at 1 AM on Yom Kippur, driving a patient to the hospital while his daughter babysat the patient’s children until 9:30 AM with minimal sleep. This act, inspired by his grandfather’s teaching in the Mir Yeshiva to visit the sick during Musaf, exemplifies Yom Kippur’s mitzvah of selflessness over selfishness, reinforcing the holiday’s essence.Livelihood and Service: Yom Kippur prayers frequently mention livelihood, as financial worry hinders serving Hashem fully. A secure livelihood frees one to focus on spiritual growth, aligning with Sukkot’s call to trust in Hashem while living simply in the sukkah.The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, a year of health, happiness, and secure livelihood, urging listeners to carry Yom Kippur’s selflessness into daily life.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 5, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesEveryday Judaism 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:#YomKippur, #Sukkot, #Sins, #Forgiveness, #Joy, #Renewal, #Selflessness, #Mitzvahs, #Kindness, #Blessings, #SuccessfulYear ★ Support this podcast ★
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    18 m
  • Sukkos 1 - From Forgiveness to Thanksgiving: The Profound Joy of Sukkot

    Sukkos 1 - From Forgiveness to Thanksgiving: The Profound Joy of Sukkot
    Oct 3 2025

    Get ready for a transformative journey as we unlock the profound significance of Yom Kippur and the power it holds for renewal and a clean slate. We'll take you back in time to the historical origin of Yom Kippur, recounting the journey of Moshe to Har Sinai and his return 40 days later. Together, we'll grasp the essence of forgiveness, through the lens of the 13 Attributes of Mercy that Hashem taught Moshe, a gift that continues to guide us even today. If you've ever felt like you missed the opportunity for transformation during Yom Kippur, fret not! We discuss how the gates of change remain open until the end of Yom Hadin, The Day of Judgement.

    As we pivot from Yom Kippur to Sukkot, we contemplate the cyclic dance of good and challenging experiences that life offers. In this fast-paced world, dominated by technology, we underscore the power of gratitude in finding happiness. If you struggle to maintain a daily gratitude practice, you'll appreciate the words of King David that inspire us to express our thanks a hundred times each day. As we approach Sukkot, a time of joy and celebration, we delve into the importance of Sukkah's and the role it plays in physically manifesting our gratitude. Come along on this intimate exploration of Jewish traditions, and discover a path to personal growth and happiness.


    This episode (#123) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman!


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    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 at TGA - Torah Girls Academy to a live audience on October 6, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on October 6, 2022

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    25 m
  • Yom Kippur 3 - Small Changes Before Yom Kippur

    Yom Kippur 3 - Small Changes Before Yom Kippur
    Sep 28 2025

    Reflecting on a recent journey from Jerusalem to Ramat Gan, a divine encounter with a shopkeeper not only demonstrated the power of prayer, but also reminds us that the Almighty is always listening. This heartwarming tale forms the foundation of today's conversation, reaffirming the belief that no prayer goes unnoticed.

    As the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur loom, we contemplate the power of repentance and God's divine love. We discuss a beautiful analogy, comparing God's forgiveness to a father welcoming home his prodigal son. Like a loving parent, God waits with open arms, ready to embrace us as we turn back to Him, illustrating His readiness to forgive if we sincerely repent.

    Lastly, we move into an enlightening exploration of Teshuvah and the transformative power of prayer. We share how, regardless of our past missteps, these elements offer us redemption and a fresh perspective on life. This is a potent reminder that no matter how far we feel we have strayed, the Almighty is always waiting for us to return. Join us on this spiritual journey as we navigate the power of prayer, repentance, and Teshuvah.


    This episode (#52) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Juan Juan & Susan Bracho!


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    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 October 2020, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on September 15, 2021
    Re-broadcast on September 8, 2023

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    27 m
  • Yom Kippur 2 - Understanding Yom Kippur and the Art of Forgiveness

    Yom Kippur 2 - Understanding Yom Kippur and the Art of Forgiveness
    Sep 26 2025

    Get ready to unravel the deep-seated holiness of Yom Kippur and the incredible power of forgiveness. We take a spiritual excursion to comprehend the essence of this auspicious day, the unique sacredness it harbors, and the steps to transform our lives through the act of repentance. We delve into the mysteries of Yom Kippur, exploring why it is often referred to as 'the day,' the historical context linked to the Golden Calf, and the profound symbolism of the number 40, signifying rebirth and transformation.

    As we saunter through the sacred path, we'll shed light on the five prohibitions (afflictions) of Yom Kippur, connecting them to the five levels of the soul. Picture the craftsmanship of a glassblower, and you'll see the profound relationship between these prohibitions and the soul. We will explore the astonishing potential of Yom Kippur as a day of repentance, where you can reinvent and purify your being. Prepare to embark on a spiritual voyage that could change your fate, seize the day that can alter it all.

    In the concluding segment, we turn our attention to the compelling power of repentance and forgiveness. Through age-old tales from Jewish tradition, we examine the possibility of divine forgiveness and the path towards atonement. You'll learn about the steps to forgiveness, the importance of sincerity, and the miracles that forgiveness can bring about. We will delve into the concept of repentance, or Teshuva, understanding its overwhelming power that surpasses the highest of heavens. Let's journey together, explore the mysteries, and prepare for the spiritually invigorating experience of Yom Kippur.

    This episode (#122) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of David & Susan Marbin!


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    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 October 3, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on October 4, 2022
    Re-Released on September 15, 2023

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    1 h y 31 m
  • Yom Kippur 1 - Overcoming Barriers to Spiritual Growth: The Transformative Power of Repentance

    Yom Kippur 1 - Overcoming Barriers to Spiritual Growth: The Transformative Power of Repentance
    Sep 25 2025

    Discover the transformative power of Teshuvah, or repentance, as we embark on a profound spiritual journey. Join us as we uncover why repentance is revered as one of the most potent forces in Judaism, even surpassing the Torah and Shabbos. Through the mystical ascent of Moshe and the teachings of Rebbe Levi, learn how Teshuvah reaches the throne of honor in the heavens, emphasizing the importance of spiritual reflection, especially during the poignant 10 days of repentance.

    Embrace the urgency of repentance and maintain a divine connection with God, as we discuss the foundational concepts set before creation, including the Torah, the Garden of Eden, and Gehinnom. By drawing parallels to the legendary tale of Sodom and Gomorrah, we highlight the timeless necessity of living a life filled with holiness and devotion. The episode also delves into the profound impact of recent tragic events around Gaza, reminding us of the critical need to align our lives with divine values and seek forgiveness before it's too late.

    Overcoming personal hurdles like laziness can pave the way for spiritual and personal growth, and we explore strategies to combat this pervasive trait. With insights from the Mishnah and illustrative parables, learn how to seize opportunities for repentance and change before the unpredictable nature of life takes hold. We discuss the lessons from Bernie Madoff's infamous fraud to illustrate the escalation of minor dishonest actions and stress the importance of early repentance for true spiritual cleanliness. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer for protection and clarity, we wish our listeners a meaningful Yom Kippur, filled with love, kindness, and a future without the need for repentance.
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    Recorded in The Torchwood Center - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on October 8, 2024.
    Released as Podcast on October 10, 2024.
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    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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    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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    50 m
  • Elul 30 - Personal Spirituality in the Digital Age (Rosh Hashanah 16b)

    Elul 30 - Personal Spirituality in the Digital Age (Rosh Hashanah 16b)
    Sep 22 2025

    Can our relationship with God be measured solely by our attendance at the synagogue? Or is it the daily nurturing of that bond that truly matters? This episode seeks to answer these questions and more, as we ponder the profound connection between us and the divine. Highlighting my grandfather's spiritual journey in Sweden, we explore how even without a congregation, a meaningful relationship with God can still be fostered. We also delve into the role of social media in creating a false sense of validation and how it impacts our understanding of our connection with the divine.

    We all know that blessings are abundant - health, eyesight, clothing, and more. But how often do we pause to truly appreciate them? In this episode, we look at how Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah offer us an opportunity to express gratitude and reinforce our relationship with God. We challenge the common misconception that success is solely defined by wealth, arguing that true success is rooted in our relationships with others.

    Finally, we take a closer look at righteousness and wickedness, exploring how these concepts impact our relationship with God. Our choices and actions, especially those made on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, play a significant role in this relationship. As we approach Yom Kippur, we reflect on the importance of creating a sacred space that allows us to feel closer to God. This episode is a journey of spiritual exploration and we wish you all a meaningful and spiritually uplifting Yom Kippur. Tune in and join us in this exploration of faith, connection, and spirituality.

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    The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud.

    This episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast (Ep. 33) is dedicated in honor of our friend, Aaron & Adina Rosenzweig!

    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 September 15, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on September 21, 2023

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    41 m
  • The Rosh Hashanah Reset: Why Your Rosh Hashanah Goals Could Change EVERYTHING!

    The Rosh Hashanah Reset: Why Your Rosh Hashanah Goals Could Change EVERYTHING!
    Sep 22 2025
    In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the approaching Rosh Hashanah, just two days away, emphasizing it as a time to realign with one’s purpose and mission in life. He encourages listeners to evaluate their goals for the new year, citing his own experience of surpassing ambitious goals from the previous year as evidence of divine assistance when one commits to meaningful objectives. Drawing from the Mesillat Yesharim by the Ramchal, Rabbi Wolbe underscores the importance of cleaving to Hashem by aligning personal will with divine will, as exemplified by Moshe, described as a servant of Hashem in his eulogy. He explains that repentance (teshuvah) involves removing barriers like arrogance, comforts, and distractions (e.g., social media, gaming) that separate us from Hashem, returning to a state of oneness akin to a fetus in the womb, unburdened by physical limitations. Referencing Parshas Nitzavim, he highlights the verse (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) that the mitzvah—interpreted by Rashi as Torah study and by the Ramban as teshuvah—is accessible through the heart and mouth, requiring desire and effort. Rabbi Wolbe shares personal anecdotes, like his struggle to master drumming rhythms and his initial intimidation teaching complex prayers, to illustrate that persistent effort, even in the face of doubt, leads to divine clarity and success. He stresses the importance of accepting rabbinic guidance humbly, even when disagreeing, and critiques congregational disregard for rabbis’ spiritual leadership. Finally, he connects the numerical value of “this mitzvah” (zot, 408) to teshuvah, tefillah, and tzedakah (fasting, prayer, charity), which remove evil decrees, sharing a donor’s perspective that charity is giving God’s money, reinforcing divine trust. Rabbi Wolbe concludes with a blessing for a year of health, clarity, and Torah study, urging listeners to recognize Hashem as the source of all creation.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on September 14, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content. _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesEveryday Judaism 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:#RoshHashanah, #Self-reflection, #Teshuva, #Repentance, #JewishPrinciples, #Hashem, #Humility, #Guidance, #Kindness, #GoodHealth, #Clarity, #DivineEnergy ★ Support this podcast ★
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    26 m