Parsha Review Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe begins the fourth cycle of weekly Torah insights with Parshas Bereshis, focusing on creation's profundity and life's lessons from Genesis 1:25–27. He emphasizes Hashem's deliberate design, urging listeners to derive ethics from nature if Torah were absent, while highlighting Torah's elevation beyond instinct.

Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah te...

Have you ever paused to ponder why the Torah starts with the beginning of creation and not just tell us the laws of life?
Listen in as we discuss the pressing current events unfolding in Israel, and the profound implications these have on our faith and learning. This episode takes a comprehensive look at the Torah in Parashat Bereishis, along with Rashi’s enlightening commentary on the word 'Bereishis.' As we journey through these teachings, we unravel the deep significance of the backstory of our ancestors and how it intertwines with our right to the land of Is...

Stepping into the realm of sacred rituals and spiritual purity, we journey through the Book of Leviticus, unraveling the deep-seated teachings that have shaped the path to divine connection. This podcast episode invites you to traverse  the profound intricacies of ancient offerings and their contemporary implications. We delve into the roles and responsibilities of both the ancient Israelites and the priests, and the resonating lesson from Nadav and Avihu's story about the gravity of adhering to spiritual protocol.

Holiness and atonement are cornerstones of spiritual life, and in this session, they come to the forefront as we d...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.1) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Bereishis offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.
This episode is dedicated in honor of Bobbi Asarch & Linda Friedberg who had the idea to start this weekly class! Thank YOU!

00:00 Parsha Summary
20:05 Important Lessons Segment

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

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

Welcome back to the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, where we journey from the trials of Egypt to the triumph at Mount Sinai, uncovering the profound transformations of the Jewish people. Listen in as we explore the shift from the familial narratives of Genesis to the birth of a nation in Exodus. Discover how the arduous experiences in Egypt were not just hardships, but the very crucible that forged the identity of the Israelites as the chosen people. We examine Moses' ascension from the Pharaoh's palace to becoming the epitome of empathetic leadership, and delve into the shepherd metaphor that so...

Embark on a profound exploration of Genesis, the book that lays the cornerstone of Judaism and the storied beginnings of the family of Israel. Together we unravel the fabric of creation, the inception of humankind, and the lives of its earliest patriarchs, from Adam and Eve's foray into knowledge to Joseph's enduring legacy. As we navigate through these timeless narratives, we uncover the divine orchestration of choice and consequence that permeates the existence of each biblical figure and resonates with the existential queries of our own lives.

Venture into the depths of morality with our discussion on...

Unlock the secrets of the Torah as we journey through its timeless wisdom and divine teachings. Join us as we embark on an insightful journey through the foundations of the Torah in our Bible Crash Course. Listen in as we address ten pivotal questions that unravel the essence of the Torah, exploring not just its historical and legal facets but its role as a living document, intricately woven into the fabric of daily life. We contemplate its authorship, structure, and the profound connection it establishes between us and the Divine, emphasizing that the Torah is far more than a...

Discover the profound secrets of Parsha V'zos Habrachah and unravel the mystical nature of Bereishis in our latest episode of the Parsha Review Podcast. As we approach the joyous celebration of Simchas Torah, we explore how Moshe's final blessings reflect his unwavering love and dedication to the Jewish people. Dive into a cherished insight from my father about why Bereishis always seems to have an abbreviated preparation time, and uncover the hidden wisdom within. Through the lens of selfless love, we recount the inspiring story of Reb Shaya'le Kerestirer, whose actions echo Moshe's timeless virtues.

Our journey...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.11) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vezos Haberachah offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Bobbi Asarch & Linda Friedberg who had the idea to start this weekly class! Thank YOU!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
05:25 Important Lessons Segment

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

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Parshas Ha’azinu (Deuteronomy 32), a prophetic song read on the Shabbos following Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (September 20-21, 2025). He connects the parsha’s themes to the spiritual preparation for Yom Kippur, emphasizing teshuvah (repentance) and the bedtime Shema as a daily practice to align with divine purpose. Key points include:

Discover the timeless wisdom of Parshas Ha'azinu and how it can transform your life with blessings and divine communication. We explore the meaning behind the heavens and the earth as eternal witnesses to God's covenant, emphasizing their role in rewarding and punishing the Jewish people. Through personal stories and reflections, we illustrate how the Torah remains a living, powerful force, guiding us in our daily lives. Learn how engaging deeply with the Torah can bring unparalleled blessings and maintain your direct connection with Hashem.

This episode also highlights the lessons of modesty and integrity, inspired by a...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.10) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Haazinu offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Bruce & Eliana Schimmel!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
07:33 Important Lessons Segment

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Parshas Vayelech, a concise 70-verse portion detailing the final day of Moshe’s life, where he writes 13 Torah scrolls—one for each of the 12 tribes and one for the Ark—to guide the Jewish people as they enter the Promised Land. Rabbi Wolbe notes the Torah’s unique status as a divine document, identical worldwide, unlike other religious texts with multiple versions, emphasizing its public revelation at Sinai, acknowledged by other faiths. He explains that the Torah, given as a manual for living in Israel, was completed just bef...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.9) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeilech  offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Peter & Becky Botvin!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
03:55 Important Lessons Segment

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

How does the concept of equality shape our spiritual responsibilities? Join us as we reflect on the profound themes of Parsha Nitzavim- Vayelech, where Moshe gathers the entire Jewish people to renew their covenant with Hashem. We delve into the powerful message that every individual, regardless of rank or background, shares equal responsibility in observing the commandments. With the specter of the 98 curses from the previous portion looming large, Moshe reassures the people of Hashem's unwavering commitment and love, reminding us that the journey towards fulfilling His will is a universal obligation.

In another touching segment, we...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.8) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Nitzavim offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Miriam Wolbe on her Bas Mitzvah!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
04:43 Important Lessons Segment

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Nitzavim, which always precedes Rosh Hashanah, emphasizing the theme of standing before Hashem in judgment, as highlighted in Deuteronomy 29:9, where "Atem Nitzavim" (you are standing) signals the collective accountability of all Israel. He notes the deliberate separation from the 98 curses in the prior portion (Ki Tavo), described as "100 minus 2" to avoid proximity to Rosh Hashanah, including sins like cursing parents or misleading the vulnerable. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of the Chose of Lublin advising a sinner to commit to truth as repentance, illustrating how truth...

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Ki Savo, the seventh portion in the Book of Deuteronomy, focusing on Deuteronomy 26:11, which instructs the Jewish people to rejoice in all the goodness given by Hashem, including to their households, the Levites, and converts. Rabbi Wolbe, citing the Orachaim HaKadosh, emphasizes that this "goodness" refers to the Torah, described as sweeter than honey, capable of transforming negative traits like arrogance or anger into positive ones, as it extracts impurities, much like honey purifies non-kosher items over time. He shares personal anecdotes, such as his excitement...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.7) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Ki Savo offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Peter & Becky Botvin!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
08:25 Important Lessons Segment

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

What if the key to overcoming your greatest spiritual battles lies not in struggle, but in joy? Join us as we uncover the profound lessons of Parsha Ki Seitzei and how it equips us to conquer our Yetzer Hara, or evil inclination, during the reflective month of Elul. We passionately explain why true Teshuvah (repentance) should be a joyous process and how this joy transforms our sins into mitzvahs, creating a powerful shift in our spiritual journey.

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, we delve into the heart of serving Hashem with happiness, revealing why...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.6) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Ki Seitzei offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in honor of Dr. Howard Schreiber!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
09:43 Important Lessons Segment

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Ki Seitzei, the sixth portion in the Book of Deuteronomy, read during the month of Elul, a time of introspection before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Rabbi Wolbe begins with Deuteronomy 21:10, which describes going out to war against enemies, interpreting the true battle as the internal struggle against the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). He emphasizes that this parsha, always read in Elul, reflects the spiritual war against personal temptations, with Hashem promising victory to those who make the effort. Referencing Deuteronomy 28:47, Rabbi Wolbe notes that failing...

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Shoftim, the fifth portion in the Book of Deuteronomy, which outlines the establishment of a just society through judges, officers, and the pursuit of righteousness. Rabbi Wolbe begins with Deuteronomy 16:18-20, emphasizing the command to appoint judges and officers at all gates to ensure fair judgment, and the iconic verse “Tzedek, tzedek tirdof” (“Justice, justice you shall pursue”), highlighting the need for integrity free from bribery, which can corrupt even the wise and just. He connects the prohibition against planting a tree for idol worship near God’s al...

What if true repentance meant not only seeking forgiveness from God but also transforming the way we treat others? Join us in this thought-provoking episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, where we dive into the spiritual and ethical depths of Parshas Shoftim as it coincides with the start of the month of Elul. We'll explore the Torah's directive to appoint judges and officers, shedding light on the indispensable role of law enforcement and accountability in our communities. With Elul upon us, we emphasize the profound opportunity this month provides for self-judgment and introspection, particularly in our relationships with family...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.5) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Shoftim offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in loving memory of Relda Finger Hoffer (Rata Marsha Bas Dubby Z"L)!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
12:00 Important Lessons

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into Parshas Re’eh, the fourth portion in the Book of Deuteronomy, emphasizing its profound inspiration and guidance for living as God’s chosen people. Focusing on Deuteronomy 13:5, Rabbi Wolbe highlights the verse’s commands to follow Hashem, fear Him, observe His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him. Quoting Rashi, he explains that “clinging to Hashem” means emulating His ways through acts of loving-kindness, such as visiting the sick (Bikur Cholim), burying the deceased, and comforting mourners, as God did for Abraham and Moses...

Unlock the timeless wisdom of Parsha Re'eh and transform your spiritual journey with us. Discover how your choices can shape your destiny as we navigate the profound teachings of "Blessings and Curses." We use compelling analogies, such as Hollywood actors, to emphasize the authenticity required in our relationship with God. Hear the moving story of a man who, when faced with a life-threatening illness, finally heeds his rabbi's teachings, showcasing the critical need to truly listen and apply the Torah's guidance in everyday life.

Explore the captivating insights on prioritizing your spiritual path over transient false gods...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.4) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Re'eh offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in loving memory of Relda Finger Hoffer (Rata Marsha Bas Dubby Z"L)!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
10:44 Important Lessons

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe delves into Parshas Devarim, the opening portion of the Book of Deuteronomy, which serves as a review (Mishneh Torah) of the Torah’s teachings, encapsulating Moses’ final remarks to the Jewish people. Rabbi Wolbe focuses on the first verse (Deuteronomy 1:1), which lists seemingly extraneous locations—such as the wilderness, Arava, and Dizahav—where Moses spoke to the Israelites. Quoting Rashi, he explains that these are veiled critiques of the Jewish people’s past sins, including the complaints after Egypt, the Midianite women, the spies, the manna, Korach’s rebellion, a...

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Parshas Eikev, the third portion in the Book of Deuteronomy, rich with divine guidance for the Jewish people as they prepare to enter the Land of Israel. Rabbi Wolbe begins with Deuteronomy 7:12, which promises that observing and performing God’s commandments (mitzvot) will ensure the fulfillment of the covenant and blessings promised to the patriarchs. Rashi interprets “Eikev” (meaning “heel”) as a call to value even the seemingly minor mitzvot that one might “trample” underfoot, emphasizing that every commandment holds profound significance. Rabbi Wolbe addresses why God’s promises to Ab...

Unlock the secrets to a spiritually fulfilling life as we are guided through Parshas Ekev. Discover the stark contrasts between the lands of Egypt and Israel and learn why Moshe's message about trusting in Hashem's divine providence is more relevant today than ever. This episode illuminates how living without financial security can actually foster a deeper, more meaningful relationship with the divine, mirroring the entrepreneurial spirit of the Jewish people. As we enter the month of Elul, prepare your heart and soul for Rosh Hashanah with the powerful practices of Teshuvah and shofar blowing.

Feel the profound...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.3) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Eikev offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah. This episode is dedicated in Honor of Jordan & Robin Davis!

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
7:31 Important Lessons

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe introduces Parshas Va'eschanan, which follows Tisha B’Av, a day of mourning for the destruction of the two Temples and other tragedies in Jewish history. The episode focuses on Moses’ heartfelt pleas—515 prayers—to enter the Land of Israel, which God ultimately denies, commanding him to stop to avoid compelling divine acquiescence. Rabbi Wolbe is joined by his nephew, Avram Blackman, a seventh-grader from Toronto, who shares a profound insight on the parsha. Avram highlights Moses’ resilience, noting that despite his unanswered prayers, Moses continued to teach and strengthen...

Can we truly learn from our past mistakes, or are we doomed to repeat them? Join us on this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast as we journey through Parshas Devarim, uncovering Moses' powerful words of guidance and reflection to the children of Israel. Together, we navigate the four layers of Torah understanding, PARDES—Pshat, Remez, Drush, and Sod—drawing inspiration from the Gaon of Vilna, who mastered these depths so profoundly that he no longer needed commentaries. We also provide essential insights into the cautious and structured approach required for studying Kabbalah, likening it to an ascent of Moun...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 5.1) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Devarim offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
05:40 Important Lessons

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

This Parsha Review episode is dedicated in Honor of Bruce & Rhona Caress!

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

Have you ever wondered how a small, untrained army could achieve a miraculous victory against a formidable kingdom? Join us as we're guided through the awe-inspiring story of the Jewish people's triumph over the kingdom of Midian, where 12,000 Jewish soldiers succeeded without a single casualty, highlighting the true power of unwavering faith in Hashem's divine support. This incredible narrative from Parshas Matos and Masei reminds us that success is not a matter of numbers but of divine intervention and guidance.

In our discussion, we also reflect on the profound journey of the Jewish people through the wilderness...

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 4.10) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Masei offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
05:12 Important Lessons

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

This Parsha Review episode is dedicated in Honor of Bruce & Rhona Caress!

*****

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

This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 4.9) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mattos offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Parsha Summary
06:55 Important Lessons

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

This Parsha Review episode is dedicated in Honor of Bruce & Rhona Caress!

*****

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

In this episode of the Parsha Review Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the combined Torah portions of Matos and Mas'ei, which conclude the Book of Numbers. He highlights the turbulent history of the Jewish people in Numbers, marked by crises like the spies, Korach’s rebellion, and the Baal Peor incident, setting the stage for Deuteronomy’s review of the Torah’s teachings over Moses’ final 36 days. Rabbi Wolbe delves into Matos, which opens with the laws of oaths, emphasizing the sacredness of one’s word. He stresses that in God’s world, every spoken commitment must be fulfilled, as one’s wor...