Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection

In episode sixteen of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B’Miut Sechora — “with limited business” (or limited involvement in commerce). This way has two complementary messages: (1) Do not become overly consumed by business or livelihood at the expense of life, family, Torah study, and spiritual growth; and (2) When you are engaged in business, use it as a powerful tool for personal and spiritual development rather than viewing it only as a means to make money.

Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that business challenges — such as financial uncertainty, dishonesty from others, or market fluctuations — are opportunitie...

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of the month of Iyar, the month of Ohr - light and spiritual blossoming. 

This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #182) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!!

*****

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

In episode fifteen of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B'Mishnah (B’Torah Sheb’al Peh) — “with the Oral Law.” The Written Torah (Tanakh) tells us what to do, while the Oral Torah tells us how to do it. The two are inseparable; one cannot be properly understood without the other. The Mishnah and Talmud form the core of the Oral Law, brilliantly written in a discussion/argument format to inspire deep conversation and analysis rather than simple rule-listing.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that the Mishnah often presents multiple opinions, and even when one is followe...

In episode fourteen of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B’Mikra — “with the written law” (the Torah, or Tanakh). The foundation of a successful and fulfilling life is following instructions, just as every product we buy comes with a manual. The Torah is God’s owner’s manual for life — the blueprint and map that shows us how to live, raise children, build relationships, conduct ourselves ethically, and maximize every moment.

Rabbi Wolbe stresses that financial success (e.g., billionaires like Bill Gates, Elon Musk, and Jeff Bezos) does not equal success in marriage, f...

In episode thirteen of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Be-Yishuv — “with deliberation” or “with a settled mind.” This quality calls for calmness, patience, and thoughtful reflection rather than rushing into judgments, answers, or decisions. The first Mishnah in Ethics of Our Fathers instructs us to “be patient before casting judgment,” not only in a courtroom but in the constant courtroom of our own minds. We judge others (and situations) far too quickly based on incomplete information.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that Marbeh Yeshiva, Marbeh Chachma — the more you deliberate, the more wisdom you acquire. A settl...

In this somber yet inspiring episode marking Yom HaShoah (27 Nisan), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the Holocaust's scale: over 42,000 ghettos and camps, 30,000 slave labor camps, 1,150 Jewish ghettos, nearly 1,000 concentration camps, and estimates of 15–20 million people imprisoned or murdered across Europe, including 6 million Jews (1.5 million of them children). He stresses the sin of the innocent bystander—when evil unfolds (muggings, rapes, antisemitic attacks in broad daylight), we cannot remain silent or walk by.

Rabbi Wolbe warns against "cancel culture" and purification movements that echo elitist cleansing, urging caution: Germany saw itself as the pinnacle of civilization yet descended into...

In episode twelve of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Bipilpol Talmidim (or Bipilpol Haverim) — “through the discussion/teaching of students” or “teach in order to learn.” The true test of whether you have properly acquired an idea is your ability to teach it to someone else. If you cannot explain or relay it clearly, you have not yet fully internalized it.

Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that teaching is an obligation in Judaism (“lilmod ul’elamed” — learn and teach). Sharing wisdom brings self-respect, creativity, and deeper understanding. The Hebrew letter Lamed beautifully illustrates the process: it rises...

In episode eleven of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Be-Dibuk Chaverim — “clinging to friends” or “using friendship for living.” A true friend is not left to chance; the sages instruct us to “buy” or invest in a good friend because friendship is essential for growth, accountability, and life itself. The Talmud states that one who has no friends is better off dead, as friends challenge us, point out blind spots, sharpen us like two knives against each other, and provide objectivity that we cannot achieve alone.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that friends help correct our mi...

The Living Jewishly Podcast 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.

In this Living Jewishly Podcast BONUS episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the laws of Counting the Omer, Sefiras Haomer and the laws applicable to the counting and the days during "Sefirah"

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

In episode ten of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B’Shimush Chachamim — “serving the wise” or learning through mentorship. While self-study is essential (way #1), it is not enough on its own. Books, even the Torah itself, can be misunderstood or taken out of context without proper guidance from a living teacher. Serving the wise goes beyond intellectual learning: it allows us to observe and absorb how a righteous person lives, speaks, treats others, handles challenges, and conducts everyday affairs.

Rabbi Wolbe shares powerful personal examples: his rabbi repeatedly asking whether he wakes up at ni...

In episode nine of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches B’Tahara — “with purity.” Purity means being unadulterated, genuine, and free of ulterior motives or negative influences — pure thoughts, pure actions, and a pure soul with no additives or hidden angles. We are born with a pure soul (“Elokai, neshama shenasata bi tehorah”), but we are heavily shaped by our environment.

Rabbi Wolbe stresses that we must guard our environment carefully because negative influences inevitably affect us. He shares a childhood story of using foul language after playing in a public schoolyard and how his parent...

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In episode eight of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe presents B’Simcha — “with happiness” or “with joy.” He explains that happiness is not a destination to pursue (as the U.S. Declaration of Independence suggests), but an internal attitude and frame of mind. True happiness comes from contentment with what we have, clarity, and connection to God, rather than from external achievements, possessions, or pleasures.

Rabbi Wolbe teaches that joy is deeply intertwined with Torah and mitzvot: the Divine Presence (Shechinah) dwells where there is joy and departs from sadness. One hour of Torah study...

In episode seven of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Anava — “with humility.” He clarifies that true humility is not self-deprecation, staying silent, or pretending to be small. Instead, humility means recognizing that everything we have — talents, accomplishments, successes — is a gift from Hashem. We can (and should) feel proud of our achievements, but always with the awareness that the credit ultimately belongs to God who granted us the abilities.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that people are not judged against the average percentile of others. If God gave someone exceptional gifts, they are held to a much...

In the sixth episode of his 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Yirah — “with fear” (specifically fear of Heaven / Yirat Shamayim). He carefully distinguishes it from the previous way (“with awe” — Be-ayma). While awe lifts us with wonder and inspiration, fear provides a sobering perspective and accountability.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that fear (Yirah) shares the same root as “to see” (Re’iyah), meaning it helps us truly see reality: our relationship with Hashem, our responsibility, and the fact that all our deeds are recorded. It is not about hiding in terror, but about living with healthy accou...

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...

In the fifth episode of his 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Be-ayma — “with awe” (Yirah in its elevated sense). Building on the previous steps (study, listening, speaking, and heartfelt understanding), he teaches that awe elevates us beyond ordinary living. Awe is not mere fear but a reverential wonder and respect that arises when we contemplate the majesty of Hashem: the vastness of galaxies, the power of oceans and storms, the intricacy of the human body, fruits, vegetables, sunsets, and the Torah scroll itself.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that living with awe lifts us out of pet...

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...

In episode four of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses Binat HaLev — “understanding of the heart.” After studying, listening, and speaking (ways 1–3), the crucial next step is aligning the mind (intellect) with the heart (seat of emotion and action) so that knowledge actually translates into lived behavior.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that we often know what is right — whether in diet, driving, mitzvot, or relationships — yet fail to act on it because of habit or emotional pull. True growth requires breaking automatic habits and doing things with kavana (intention and feeling). He shares a powerful per...

In the third episode of his 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Arichat Sfatayim — “arranging it with your lips” — the power of verbalizing and speaking out what we learn. After studying (way #1) and listening (way #2), we must actively speak the ideas aloud to make them real, clarify them, and internalize them deeply.

Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that “to say is to be.” Speech has incredible power: King Solomon teaches that “life and death are in the hands of the tongue,” and the words of Torah come alive when spoken. He shares the moving story of the Chofetz Chai...

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

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

In this second installment of his 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the second pathway to acquiring Torah: Bishmiyata Ozen — “with listening, with the listening of the ear.” Building on the first lesson about study, he emphasizes that true learning requires review — specifically reviewing material four times for clarity, just as the Talmud structures its pages with four levels of commentary.

Rabbi Wolbe teaches that Hashem constantly sends us personal messages through events, the order of Torah portions, and everyday situations, and we must train ourselves to listen attentively. He draws powerful examples: the juxtapos...

This Episode was recorded with Dan Kullman for the incredible Shema Podcast!

With the final two days of Pesach upon us and Shavous in our site, we need to remember that the journey to Mt. Sinai is as important in our growth as our arrival at our destination. Before we receive the Torah, we need to forge ourselves into the perfect vessel to receive it and that is the purpose of the days ahead. I have the great privilege of visiting on the Shema Podcast and share some idea of our action items and path on our...

In this inspiring episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe launches a new series exploring the 48 ways to acquire Torah from the Mishnah in Ethics of Our Fathers (Pirkei Avot). He explains that the 50 days of the Omer — the period between Passover and Shavuot — are an especially auspicious time for step-by-step spiritual growth as we prepare to receive the Torah anew. The series begins with the very first of these 48 pathways: “Talmud” (with study), the foundational value of wisdom and continuous learning.

Rabbi Wolbe teaches that life itself is about learning — when a Jew stops learning, he stops living. Wisdom gives us t...

In this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast (Ep. 21), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe learns from Tractate Pesachim 116a where the Talmud shares the depths of what is obligated in the Mitzvah of the Pesach Seder. What we need to say, think and feel at our Passover dinner table.

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...

The Living Jewishly Podcast 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.

In this Living Jewishly Podcast BONUS episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the laws of the Month of Nissan, the Searching for Chametz and the sale of Chametz and so much more.

00:30 - Laws regarding the Month of Nissan (Siman 107)
04:44 - Laws of Searching for Chametz (Siman 111)
04:53...

Unlock the profound spiritual essence of the Pesach Seder as we embark on a journey through its intricate laws and timeless customs. Together, we'll uncover the symbolic depth behind Marror, or bitter herbs, which poignantly connect us to the historical hardships of the Jewish people in Egypt. Learn about the specific forms and quantities of Maror, and how these traditions continue to resonate today, even in the absence of the Pesach offering. As we explore the dual themes of slavery and freedom within the Seder, discover why Maror is consumed while sitting upright, reflecting the complex interplay of remembrance...

A few short thoughts on the Haggadah and special days of Pesach! Have a great Pesach!

Recorded on March 24, 2021, in Studio B at the TORCH Centre in Houston, Texas.
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What makes the Pesach Seder so integral to Jewish tradition? Join us as we seek answers sharing profound insights on this sacred night. Together, we navigate the 15-step progression of the Seder, from Kadesh to Nirtzah, unraveling the intricacies and highlighting the unique customs that vary from one Jewish household to another. Whether you are well-versed in these traditions or curious to learn, you're invited to explore the connections these rituals forge with our collective heritage.

Our journey delves into the importance of timing and preparation for the Seder. We discuss why these elements are vital and...

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares incredible insights into the holy Pesach Seder, with beautiful ideas about the Hagaddah and imparts many remarkable spiritual components for this miraculous time.

This episode (Ep. #10) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated in honor of our dear friends, Kenny & Elyse Freed! May Hashem bless y'all and your beautiful family with good health, success and true Yiddish Nachas!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B on April 3, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on April 5, 2022
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In this gripping episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe tackles a question that has troubled him for years: Why did Esther invite Haman (and Ahasuerus) to a banquet instead of immediately exposing his plot to annihilate the Jews? And why delay with a second banquet the next day rather than demand Haman's execution on the spot? The Talmud (Megillah 15b) asks the exact same question and provides ten (or more) reasons from various Tannaim and Amoraim, which Rabbi Wolbe learns through in detail.

Key reasons include: setting a trap for Haman's downfall when comfortable (R. Elazar – "their table become a...

What hidden layers of meaning lie within the traditions of the Pesach Seder? Join us on the Everyday Judaism Podcast to unpack the rich tapestry of Jewish customs and rituals. From the special blessings recited over Matzah to the challenges of keeping a log cabin warm on Shabbat without kindling a fire, we explore the practical and spiritual dimensions of these observances. We offer profound insights into the significance of the Kittel—a garment symbolizing mortality—and the reasons behind wearing white during sacred times like Pesach, Rosh Hashanah, and Yom Kippur. Plus, discover why red wine is chosen over...

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Pesach, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the magnificent TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of redemption & freedom. Each of us shared an idea about Pesach and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Pesach with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance.

Featured in this episode: Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH President, Dan Kullman.

This Jewish Inspiration Podcast  (Ep. #174) is dedicated in honor of our dear f...

In this continuation and conclusion of Siman 116, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe completes the practical Halachot of Hagalah (boiling water immersion at 212°F to expel absorbed forbidden flavors) and related processes. Key principles: utensils must be spotless clean and unused for 24 hours before Kashering and kebol'o kach pol'to – as it absorbed, so it expels. Hagalah requires fully boiling water in a Pesach vessel; the item is submerged, then rinsed in cold water. Libun (direct flame/torching until sparks fly or straw burns on contact) is needed for fire-used items (e.g., baking pans, grates). Earthenware cannot be kashered at all.

S...

In this Parsha Review on Parshas Tzav (Leviticus 6–8), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe highlights the inauguration of the Kohanim (priests), where Moshe dresses Aaron and his sons in their sacred garments, anoints the Mishkan and altar with oil, and applies blood from the offerings to Aaron's right ear, thumb, and big toe (and similarly for his sons). Our sages explain this unusual ritual as a reminder to leaders: while the core (self and close family) is natural to protect, the "extremities" (distant people) are easily neglected. The ear, thumb, and big toe represent the farthest reaches of responsibility—those on the outs...

In this episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe shares a short & sweet idea of inspiration on the power of the Shabbos Hagadol - The Great Shabbos. A Shabbos that is infused with so much opportunity and greatness. Throughout our history we've experienced great miracles on this Shabbos. It is a time for us to connect with our own greatness and find the power and inspiration within it.

This Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #178) is dedicated my dearest friends, Peter Botvin and his incredible wife, Becky! May Hashem bless you and your beautiful family...

In this episode Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the unbelievable gift of Pesach and the Emunah it can instill in our lives for the entire year to come. 

Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH (Ep. #176) is dedicated in honor of two great friends of TORCH, Moshe & Allison Butler. May Hashem continue to bless you with magnificent health, happiness and success in all your endeavors. 

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience  on March 28,  2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 29, 2023
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DONATE to TORCH: Please cons...

In this practical halacha episode preparing for Pesach, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reviews Siman 116 of Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on removing absorbed forbidden flavors (e.g., Chametz or non-Kosher) from utensils so they can be used for Pesach or kosher food. The core principle is Kebol'o Kach Pol'to ("as it absorbed, so it expels"): utensils are Kashered in the same manner the prohibited flavor entered (e.g., direct fire use requires Libun/torching; hot liquid requires Hagalah/boiling water immersion). Earthenware (Kli cheres) can never be Kashered—neither Hagalah nor Libun works. Metal, wood, stone, and bone utensils generally can vi...

Unlock the secrets of spiritual transformation and atonement as we journey through the timeless teachings of Parshas Tzav from Leviticus. What if the spiritual cleansing once achieved through ancient offerings could be attained today? Explore this intriguing possibility as we delve into Torah study, prayer, and reading about the offerings, revealing how these practices can lead to profound personal change and spiritual growth. Join us as we offer insights from the Midrash and Talmud on achieving spiritual benefits akin to the ancient sacrifices.

In a touching narrative, discover the relentless pursuit of Emunah through the poignant story...

In this episode (Part 3) Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is joined with guests, Rabbi Yaakov Wohlgelernter, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko, Rabbi Efrayim Abrahams and hosted by Dan Kullman of the Shema Podcast. Together we go through all the nitty gritty of the Pesach Seder it's details and spiritual aspects. Enjoy!!

If you have any questions or comments please drop a note to awolbe@torchweb.org  For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at www.TORCHpodcasts.com

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available in the G...