In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, we explore the portions of Tazria and Metzorah, focusing on themes of purity, spiritual growth, and the impact of environment. Drawing from the opening verse of Tazria (Leviticus 12:1), we discuss the concept of ritual impurity and parallels it with the order of creation, where mankind’s purity follows that of animals, as explained by Rashi and the Midrash. We emphasize the importance of what we "plant" in our lives—both physically and spiritually—using the metaphor of sowing seeds to illustrate how our choices in food, media, and environment shape who we become and how our children develop. Through personal anecdotes, including his grandfather’s journey to Torah scholarship and his own childhood experience in Brooklyn, Rabbi Wolbe underscores the need to protect ourselves and our children from negative influences, such as non-kosher food and harmful media. He also highlights the spiritual significance of kosher laws, explaining how they safeguard the soul, and shares insights into the Jewish concept of Gemachs (free loan societies) as acts of kindness that foster positive community influence. The episode concludes with a call to surround ourselves with virtuous environments to ensure spiritual and moral growth.

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This episode (Ep 7.27) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Tazria-Metzora 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=sharing

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 29, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 2, 2025
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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!
_____________
SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:

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

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

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EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
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#Torah, #Parsha, #Leviticus, #PurityLaws, #Kohen, #Kosher, #Environment, #Influences, #Values

Explore the transformative power of words with us, in a profound discussion on the latest Parsha Review Podcast. Together, we'll understand how the art of conversation can either fortify or erode the very trust that binds our communities. Tapping into the rich lessons of Parshas Metzora, we'll see how tales of gossip and slander carry weight beyond mere chatter, shaping the essence of "human credit" and the atonement process that follows a slip of the tongue. It's a journey through metaphor and meaning, as we discover how two birds, cedar wood, crimson-dyed wool, and hyssop form an intricate tapestry of symbolism that speaks volumes about overcoming arrogance with humility.

Join us for a heartfelt examination of love and sacrifice, where the Torah's teachings resonate with the respect for life and the sanctity of offerings. We delve into the symbolism behind pairing birds in sacrifices, an act that underscores the commitment in our relationship with the Divine. Our conversation extends beyond the realm of the spoken word, as we draw parallels between our daily acts of dedication and the profound commitment expressed in our prayers. This episode is a call to live with intention, to embrace kindness, and to share the light of positivity in every word and action.

This episode (Ep 6.28) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Metzora is dedicated in Honor of Yehuda and Yitzi Wolbe & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on April 16, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 18, 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!
_____________
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!

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 3.5) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Metzora offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:10 - Parsha Summary
03:37 - Important Lessons Segment

This Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated to the Speedy and complete Refuah of Perl-Leah bas Sara Esther.

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

*****

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

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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on April 20, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 20, 2023

This episode takes us on a journey through the profound lessons of Parsha Tazria, where we discover that our physical deeds are more than just actions; they're gateways to elevating our souls. We'll unpack the sacred act of circumcision and its immediate connection to spirituality, and discuss peeling back the 'foreskin of the heart' to reveal a deeper bond with the divine. Sometimes, the most extraordinary aspects of existence are hidden within the ordinary, and here, we'll share how recognizing the hand of the divine in everyday moments can transform our perspective on life.

The narrative then shifts to the spiritual essence of womanhood and how, perhaps, the female soul naturally resonates with the divine in ways that transcend the need for commandments. Through stories and observations, we explore the innate godliness of women and the powerful impact of motherhood, both of which may outshine the spiritual achievements men strive for through religious precepts. We'll recount an emotional experience with my daughter at the hospital that underscored the current societal debates on gender identity. Join us as we contemplate the importance of embracing the unique spiritual and physical attributes that define men and women, rather than diminishing these differences in the pursuit of a misguided sense of equality.

This episode (Ep 6.27) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Tazria is dedicated in Honor of Dan & Shawna Kullman & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on April 10, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 11, 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!

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 3.4) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Tazria offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:10 - Parsha Summary
04:00 - Important Lessons Segment

This Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated to the Speedy and complete Refuah of Perl-Leah bas Sara Esther.

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

*****

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

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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on April 20, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 20, 2023

Unlock the profound wisdom of performing mitzvahs as we explore the teachings of Parsha Shemini. Discover the powerful story of Dama Ben-Nesina, a Gentile whose unwavering respect for his father demonstrates the true essence of fulfilling commandments for their own sake. This episode will challenge you to reconsider the role of reward and reason in religious practice, diving into the debate over the Sefer HaChinuch and its implications for understanding mitzvahs. Prepare to be inspired by the message that true observance stems from recognizing these acts as the divine will of Hashem.

In this thought-provoking discussion, we delve into the intimate connection forged with God through mitzvot performed altruistically (Lishma). We share insights on how actions such as kindness, charity, and honoring parents are expressions of divine command, not merely personal choice. We'll reflect on the historical context of Jewish humility and gratitude, drawing lessons from the manna from heaven as a symbol of Hashem's constant provision. As we celebrate Pesach, we'll recognize God's invisible hand in our daily lives and the sweetness of Torah observance. This episode invites you to engage with the week's Parsha, embracing your spiritual heritage and the eternal wisdom it offers.

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This episode (Ep 7.26) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Shemini 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=sharing

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on April 22, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 23, 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/episodes
• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.tansistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
_____________
#Torah, #Parsha, #Leviticus, #Mitzvahs, #DivineCommand, #Connection, #Kosher

Embark on a spiritual journey through tradition and the pursuit of holiness and delve into the intersection of kosher dietary laws and personal growth. This episode is a deep reflection on Parsha Shemini and its profound implications on our lives, especially during this leap year as we approach Pesach. We'll uncover the metaphorical significance of chametz and matzah, and their role in guiding us from the arrogance of leaven towards the humility and divinity of unleavened bread. Join us as we navigate the transition back to chametz post-Pesach, and how this relates to maintaining spiritual discipline and well-being through the constant compass of kosher laws.

Discover how the kosher dietary dictates shape our cultural and spiritual identity as we dissect the criteria for what makes food kosher. We'll walk through the importance of split hooves, the process of cud chewing, and the meticulousness required in proper slaughtering techniques. The creation of gefilte fish, a cultural innovation spurred by a desire to adhere both to kosher rules and Shabbat observance, is just one example of the lengths our communities have gone to keep these laws. We'll also touch on the role of modern kosher certification, ensuring we elevate the sanctity of every meal we partake in.

Finally, we explore the intimate connection between what we eat and our souls. Reflecting on this week's Parsha, we share real-life stories of transformation through the choice of a kosher diet, including anecdotes of lifelong habits changed in pursuit of holiness. Eating, a seemingly mundane act, can actually be a sacred ritual that brings us closer to Hashem. Wrapping up, our episode leaves you with a prayer for redemption from personal struggles, inspiring hope for a future where our spiritual and physical nourishment align in harmony.

This episode (Ep 6.26) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Shemini is dedicated in Honor of Dan & Shawna Kullman & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on April 2, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 5, 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!

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 3.3) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Shemini offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:10 - Parsha Summary
08:50 - Important Lessons Segment

This Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated to the Speedy and complete Refuah of Perl-Leah bas Sara Esther.

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

*****

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

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

Please send your questions, comments and even your stories relating to this parsha to awolbe@torchweb.org.

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area and please consider sponsoring a podcast by making a donation to help support our global outreach at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php.
Thank you!

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on Chol Hamoed Pesach, April 11, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 13, 2023