This episode from the Everyday Judaism Podcast, hosted by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, discusses the Halachot (Jewish laws) regarding the immersion (Tevilah) of utensils in a Mikvah, based on the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch (Siman 37). The discussion draws from biblical origins (from the conquest of Midian) and covers practical applications, exceptions, and related concepts like Kashering (making utensils kosher). Below is a structured breakdown of the key points, including Halachot mentioned, materials affected, procedures, and special cases.

The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #23.

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on November 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 16, 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.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!
_____________
#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Immersion, #Utensils, #Mikvah, #Holiness, #Kashering, #Water

Episode 22 of Ask Away dives into kosher, mikvah, and customs, with 18 questions from Benjamin (NY) and in-person queries. Rabbi Wolbe addresses antisemitism’s rise as a call to prioritize Temple/exile awareness, urging discomfort for closeness to Hashem. 

Key themes:

• Kosher Details: Spleen/liver differences, roasting liver, gid hanasheh (sciatic nerve) removal, fish blood rinsing (1:03–3:03, 39:54–40:37, 1:06:47–1:07:20).
• Mevushal Wine: Pasteurized kosher wine safe for non-Jew touch; non-mevushal fine sealed, invalid post-opening if touched (20:50–26:24, 39:09–39:54).
• Mikvah: Pools valid with 40 se’ah rainwater (biblical for women); showers/bathtubs for men (tisha kavim); blessings for women/utensils (al hat’vilah), not men; conversion TBD (42:45–56:58).
• Shabbos Candles/Prayers: Personal requests OK (18 minutes early); general prayers (e.g., Sim Shalom) fine, but no specifics on Shabbos—use intent (31:52–36:38).
• Dishwasher: Separate or hand-wash; hot water transfers taste (33:03–34:43).
• Organ Donation/DNR: Living OK (mitzvah); post-mortem complex; DNR permissible if pain excruciating, after rabbinic consult (18:35–20:47).
• Hasidic Dress: Emotional inspiration (Baal Shem Tov); uniqueness (Tzitzis’ free strings); don’t judge—focus on Chessed (Hatzalah example) (3:04–16:13).
• Behab (Fasting): Custom post-Pesach/Sukkot for atonement (lashon hara); uncommon, sunrise to stars (1:03:33–1:05:02).
• 613 Mitzvot: 248 positive (limbs), 365 prohibitions (days); total 613—no sequence significance (58:40–59:07).

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #73) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 12, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Traditions, #Law, #DietaryLaws, #Liver, #Blood, #Clothing, #GoldenAge, #Salt, #Mikvah, #Conversion, #Tefillin, #Shabbat, #Mitzvah, #Gratitude

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues his exploration of the laws of salting (kashering) meat and poultry to remove prohibited blood, covering Halachot 15–28 from Siman 36. He details specific preparations for various animal parts, including the head (cut and salted inside/outside), bones with marrow, legs (hooves trimmed), heart and lungs (cut open), liver (requires roasting over fire after cutting and rinsing, not just salting), spleen (membrane removed), intestines, stomach (milk drained), and eggs found inside birds (salted separately and considered meat). Additional rules address meat left unsalted for 72 hours and singeing birds post-feather removal. Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of witnessing a heart harvest during a medevac flight, reflecting on the miracle of the human body and daily gratitude to God. The episode concludes with a preview of immersing non-Jewish utensils in a mikvah and an invitation for listener questions.

The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #22.

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 26, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 9, 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.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!
_____________
#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #KosherFood, #SaltingMeat, #Blood, #HumanBody, #Miracle

Episode 21 of the Ask Away series addresses diverse questions on kosher laws, Jewish practices, and spiritual growth, emphasizing practical application and Torah sourcing. Recorded post-Sukkot, the session encourages questioning to deepen understanding. Key themes include:

• Kosher Laws: Blood is forbidden (Leviticus 17:11), requiring precise kashering (soaking, salting, rinsing). Glass vessels’ non-absorptive nature will be clarified later. Pre-kashered meat doesn’t need re-kashering when cut, and chicken hearts require special preparation (cutting, rinsing, salting). Contaminated water undermines kashering, necessitating clean water (0:42–25:27).
• Animal Welfare: Hunting is not Jewish; kosher animals are confined for painless slaughter (shechita). Esau’s hunting skill (aided by Adam’s garments) was exceptional but not normative, as Jews avoid tza’ar ba’alei chaim (5:31–9:42).
• Health and Hygiene: Sick animals are non-kosher due to defects (e.g., cancer), requiring post-slaughter inspection. Cockroaches can be removed on Shabbat without killing, and hand-washing reflects halachic hygiene awareness (13:24–24:29).
• Happiness and Gratitude: Marriage fosters selflessness, per Yevamot 62b, paralleling God’s giving. Reciting 100 daily blessings cultivates gratitude, preventing entitlement. Ungrateful children given everything become miserable, unlike those earning rewards (27:06–33:14).
• Teshuva and Past: Embracing one’s past, even with trauma, fuels teshuva and growth. Gratitude prevents “stealing” from oneself the chance to connect with Hashem (35:42–38:31).
• Marriage and Responsibility: Constant love and selflessness in marriage mirror God’s giving. Stories of Rav Scherer and Senator Lieberman highlight prioritizing home duties, reinforcing marriage’s role in personal growth (39:17–46:38).

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #71) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 5, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Kosher, #Blood, #Hunting, #Poultry, #Marriage, #Gratitude, #Happiness, #Relationships, #TorahLaw

This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast explores Siman 36 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, detailing the laws of kashering meat and poultry to remove blood, a biblical prohibition (Leviticus 7:26–27). Rabbi Wolbe explains the historical necessity of home kashering versus modern kosher meat production, emphasizing the process’s precision and the Torah’s concern for animal welfare. A scandal illustrates the importance of trustworthy kashrut supervision. Key themes include:

• Kashering Process: Soak meat/poultry in warm water for 30 minutes, salt with medium-grain kosher salt for one hour (24 minutes if urgent), and rinse three times to remove blood, ensuring compliance with the Torah’s blood prohibition (0:54–22:52).
• Modern Convenience: Kosher meat today is pre-kashered by certified agencies (e.g., Aaron’s Rubashkin), with mashgichim overseeing slaughter, inspection, and kashering, unlike historical home practices (0:54–4:47, 13:03–14:02).
• Precautions: Use dedicated vessels, remove visible blood, thaw frozen meat, and ensure proper drainage during salting to avoid non-kosher outcomes (14:59–21:54).
• Supervision: A God-fearing woman or mashgiach ensures thorough rinsing, as shortcuts risk violating biblical law. Poultry heads and neck vessels require careful handling (22:52–25:17).
• Animal Welfare: Kosher slaughter and kashering minimize animal pain (tza’ar ba’alei chaim), reflecting Torah values in precise slaughter and ethical treatment (e.g., feeding pets first, avoiding teasing) (25:17–27:28).
• Kashrut Integrity: A Monsey scandal where non-kosher meat was sold as kosher led to community upheaval, excommunication of the vendor, and dissolution of the kashrut agency, underscoring the need for vigilance (29:44–33:51).

The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away segment (Number 21) and a blessing for access to kosher food.

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #70) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 2, 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.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!
_____________
#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Challah, #Mitzvah, #Bread

Episode 20 of the Ask Away series of the Everyday Judaism Podcast addresses critical questions about Jewish identity, kosher laws, and Zionism in the context of modern challenges like antisemitism. Recorded post-Rosh Hashanah, the session emphasizes active questioning and sourcing Torah knowledge. Key themes include:

• Jewish Identity and Antisemitism: Hiding Jewishness fuels antisemitism, as nations act as divine tools to prompt Jews back to Hashem (Deuteronomy 31:16–18, per Gaon of Vilna). Publicly embracing Judaism (e.g., kosher choices) counters hostility (1:03–13:57).
• Role as Chosen People: Non-Jews (e.g., Costco man, Italian painters) expect Jews to visibly uphold Torah values, as prophesied (Zechariah 8:23), reinforcing the need for pride in Jewish identity (14:45–17:44).
• Kosher Laws: Dairy and meat can coexist in a cart or refrigerator if sealed and cold, but not cooked or eaten together, with practical precautions to avoid mixing (18:23–23:15).
• Zionism: True Zionism supports a Torah-observant Israel, not Herzl’s secular vision, which secularized Jews (e.g., Yemenites). Anti-Zionists like Neturei Karta misjudge modern Israel’s Torah-friendly environment (23:41–32:52).
• Meaning of Israel: “Yashar El” reflects Jews’ direct connection to Hashem, taking personal responsibility without intermediaries, a core Jewish value (33:40–35:02).

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #69) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 29, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Antisemitism, #JewishIdentity, #Faith, #Resilience, #ChosenPeople, #Zionism, #Anti-Zionism

This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast begins the second book of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on Siman 35, the laws of challah, rooted in Numbers 15:17–21. Rabbi Wolbe explains the mitzvah’s biblical and rabbinic dimensions, emphasizing its spiritual significance as a repair for Eve’s sin in the Garden of Eden, where the Tree of Knowledge was a bread tree, not an apple tree, correcting a common misconception. The lecture details practical halachot, such as minimum dough quantities, combining doughs (e.g., matzah), handling sourdough, and special cases like Shabbat or Pesach. Key themes include:

• Challah’s Spiritual Role: Separating challah (burned today due to impurity) acknowledges Hashem’s ownership, with women repairing Eve’s sin by feeding their husbands properly prepared bread (0:57–6:10).
• Misconception Clarified: The Rosh Hashanah apple-in-honey custom is unrelated to the Tree of Knowledge, which was a bread tree, with the punishment being the laborious 11-step bread-making process, countering the spiritual negativity of 11 (3:16–5:12).
• Halachic Details: The mitzvah applies to five-grain doughs of five pounds or more, with specific rules for combined doughs, sourdough, non-baked doughs, and delegation. Pre-Shabbat vigilance ensures compliance, especially before Pesach (6:10–19:54).
• Mishnah Connection: The pre-Shabbat Mishnah (Shabbat 2:6) reminds households to separate challah, alongside eruv and candle lighting, to prepare spiritually (19:19–19:54).
• Significance: Challah is a tikkun for Eve’s sin, especially for women, and is linked to the Mishnah (Shabbat 2:6) urging three pre-Shabbat checks: tithing (challah), eruv, and candle lighting (19:19–19:54).

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #63) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 26, 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.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!
_____________
#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Challah, #Mitzvah, #Bread

In Episode 19 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields questions at the TORCH Centre in Houston, recorded pre-Yom Kippur (September 28, 2025). The session addresses teshuva, holiday practices, human imperfection, political voting, synagogue customs, and sensitive social issues, emphasizing Torah’s primacy.

• Teshuva and Yom Kippur: Yom Kippur’s Yimei Ratzon makes forgiveness more accessible, like a sale, but teshuva is always possible. The three-step process (leaving sin, regret, confession) is key, and missing Yom Kippur shouldn’t deter repentance (0:57–6:17).
• Rosh Hashanah Uniqueness: No Shabbos Mevorchim blessing precedes Rosh Hashanah, as its divine blessings encompass all needs. It’s a two-day holiday globally, with Shehecheyanu recited both days for new items, unlike other festivals (6:26–11:05).
• Shabbat Preparations: Husbands prepare Shabbat candles (pre-lighting and extinguishing), and homes are cleaned thoroughly to honor Shabbat. Havdalah extends to Tuesday night if missed, reflecting Shabbat’s lingering holiness (11:05–15:07).
• Human Imperfection: Per Ecclesiastes 7:20, everyone sins (even Moshe). Growth lies in rising after mistakes, like athletes overcoming slumps, emphasizing perseverance over perfection (15:29–17:26).
• Jewish Voting Patterns: Torah-observant Jews (98–99%) vote Republican for alignment with Torah values (e.g., abortion), unlike non-Orthodox Jews (60–75% Democrat) due to historical gratitude or cultural priorities. Torah-first identity ensures societal contributions while upholding dina d’malchuta dina. U.S. support for Israel brings blessings (18:07–26:33).
• Synagogue and Modesty: Mixed seating is avoided to maintain prayer focus, not due to biblical prohibition. Modesty extends to avoiding unnecessary male-female interactions, protecting relationships (27:09–31:10).
• Homosexuality and Leadership: Homosexuality is an “abomination” (Leviticus 18:22), but all are welcome to learn. Private matters stay private; a rabbi’s open defiance of Torah requires congregational judgment (33:10–35:53).
• Survival and Laws: During persecution, Jews prioritize life, historically living near water for escape, as seen in diminished Jewish populations in Poland and Germany (36:40–37:19).

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #67) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 22, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Atonement, #Forgiveness, #Politics, #LGBTQ+, #Inclusivity

In Episode 18 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers diverse questions from participants at the TORCH Centre in Houston, recorded on a Sunday before Rosh Hashanah (pre-October 8, 2025). The session covers topics from the spiritual significance of bread-making to mikvah customs, technology’s role, and Rosh Hashanah prayers. Key themes include:

• Bread and Spiritual Symbolism: The 11-step bread-making process (Sidura DePas) counters the negative spiritual force of 11, tied to the curse of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3:19). These steps are prohibited on Shabbat, and the temple’s 11-ingredient incense similarly counters evil, contrasting with the holiness of 10 (e.g., Ten Commandments) (1:06–3:38).
• Tree of Knowledge: All trees were originally edible (Genesis 1:29, 2:9), not just a cinnamon tree, but this changed post-sin, making only fruit edible (4:13–5:16).
• Numerology and Superstition: The number 11 isn’t inherently negative for birth dates, and superstitions (e.g., about yahrzeit candles or the number 13) are discouraged. Rosh Hashanah symbols like pomegranates inspire mitzvot, though no one can fulfill all 613 due to specific conditions (e.g., Kohen, Levi, or situational mitzvot) (5:35–10:42).
• Mikvah Customs: Men have no biblical obligation but follow a rabbinic custom to immerse before Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and festivals, using pools if needed. Women are obligated only post-menstruation, requiring kosher mikvahs. Post-menopause immersion is not required but can be spiritually beneficial, as seen in a case of Shema-induced distress (13:22–19:37, 26:15–28:37).
• Technology and Free Will: Hashem created technologies like social media to offer free will, allowing choices between good (e.g., sharing Torah) and distraction (e.g., games, news). Rabbi Wolbe uses platforms to spread Torah, urging listeners to prioritize meaningful activities (20:21–25:16).
• Pidyon HaBen: This mitzvah involves “redeeming” a firstborn Israelite son with five silver coins to a Kohen, symbolizing returning the child to the parents from Hashem (29:49–31:27).
• Rosh Hashanah Prayers: Focus on ultimate closeness to Hashem, not small personal requests, as this encompasses all needs (health, wealth, wisdom) for divine service, aligning with the holiday’s lofty spiritual purpose (39:52–43:30).

The episode concludes with blessings for a sweet Rosh Hashanah, spiritual growth, and a year of health and success, encouraging listeners to share Torah content.

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #66) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 16, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#Torah, #Halacha, #JewishTraditions, #Rituals, #Mikvah, #SpiritualGrowth, #SocialMedia, #FreeWill, #Shabbat, #YomTov, #Prayers, #Blessings

In Episode 17 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, recorded post a lecture on Siman 26 (Laws of Kaddish), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields diverse questions from participants at the TORCH Centre in Houston. The session, held on a Sunday (September 14, 2025, as Rosh Hashanah is referenced as upcoming), covers Kaddish obligations, the coming of Moshiach, the nature of the soul, and Jewish practices during Elul. Key themes include:

• Kaddish Clarifications: Kaddish elevates deceased souls, primarily a duty for children, but grandchildren, grand-nieces, or close non-biological relatives (e.g., stepparents) can recite it if no one else is available. Women can say it quietly in shul, and converts rely on the community. All mitzvot, not just Kaddish, merit ancestors (0:47–3:12, 26:35–30:44, 42:09–43:41).
• Moshiach and Global Chaos: The urgency for Moshiach is heightened by recent violence (e.g., Jerusalem bus murders, Manhattan shooting, Charlie Kirk’s execution). Daily Amidah prayers for Jerusalem’s rebuilding and David’s throne, plus mitzvot, hasten Moshiach, who will unify the world under Hashem’s oneness. Jewish diversity (e.g., Hasidic sects) reflects unity in Torah, not division (3:12–14:05).
• Soul and Reincarnation: The soul, a divine spirit (Genesis 2:7), is eternal, housed in a temporary body. Life’s challenges perfect its “imperfections,” like a diamond. Reincarnation may occur to complete this mission, with gender or form varying by purpose. Its unity is divinely sustained, intangible like sound or fire (14:50–24:43).
• Elul’s Teshuva: Elul’s “King in the field” offers amnesty for sins, making teshuva potent. Slichot, begun the previous night, enhances forgiveness, aligning with Yimei Ratzon (31:17–34:08).
• Biblical vs. Customary Laws: The prohibition on shaving with a blade is biblical (Leviticus 19:27), not a custom, unlike arbitrary practices. Rabbi Wolbe clarifies misconceptions, encouraging further questions (37:22–41:20).
• Prayer and Community: Havdalah is permissible for women, and converts are cherished, with communal Kaddish ensuring their souls’ elevation (34:08–35:20, 42:32–43:41).

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #65) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 12, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#Torah, #Halacha, #JewishTraditions, #Kaddish, #Messiah, #Redemption, #Soul, #Shabbos, #Reincarnation

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe concludes the discussion of Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering halachot 14–22 of the mourner’s Kaddish, completing the first book of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch. He emphasizes the spiritual significance of Kaddish in elevating the deceased’s soul by declaring Hashem’s oneness, while noting that modern practice of all mourners reciting Kaddish together reduces the relevance of precedence rules but underscores communal unity. Key points include:

• Recap of Kaddish’s Purpose: Kaddish, recited by descendants, elevates the deceased’s soul, as per Midrashic stories, by glorifying Hashem’s name. The mourning stages—shiva (7 days, most intense), shloshim (30 days), the first year, and yahrtzeit (annual anniversary)—dictate Kaddish priorities, with shiva mourners taking precedence.
• Halacha 14–15 (Chazan Priorities): Leading prayers as chazan provides greater merit for the deceased than Kaddish alone, originally instituted for minors unable to lead. Shiva or shloshim mourners have precedence in leading services, except on Shabbos/Yom Tov unless they were the regular chazan. If two equally entitled mourners are capable chazans, they cast lots, splitting the service (one leads until Ashrei, the other from Ashrei onward). A chazan doesn’t forfeit Kaddish rights but should yield to minors or less capable mourners.
• Halacha 16–18 (Multiple Mourners): Mourning for both parents on the same day doesn’t grant extra Kaddish rights; one Kaddish covers both. Kaddish is recited for 11 months, not 12, to avoid implying the deceased was a great sinner (judged for 12 months in Gehenna). Counting starts from burial, not death, with adjustments for leap years (e.g., stopping on the 9th of Kislev). Rabbi Wolbe shares his grandfather’s request for 12-month Kaddish, approved by Rabbi Elyashiv, reflecting humility, and notes his grandfather’s rejection of eulogies to avoid exaggerated claims, as eulogies are scrutinized in heaven.
• Halacha 19–21 (Community and Women): If no parental mourners are present, someone who previously lost parents recites Kaddish for all deceased Jews. Other relatives (e.g., grandparents, siblings without children) may recite Kaddish if permitted by parental mourners. Women typically don’t recite Kaddish in synagogue but can do so in a home minyan, ideally with others. A yahrtzeit observer unable to recite Kaddish (e.g., while traveling) can recite it at the next Ma’ariv, as Rabbi Wolbe illustrates with an email about arranging a minyan in Galveston for a cruise passenger’s yahrtzeit.
• Halacha 22 (Greatest Merit): The greatest merit for parents is not just Kaddish but children living Torah-observant lives daily, honoring parents posthumously (per the Zohar, citing Exodus 20:12). Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes actions like keeping kosher or Shabbos as greater than Kaddish, sharing a story of a bumper sticker (“good” above grass, “bad” below) to highlight the opportunity to do good while alive for ancestors’ merit.
• Community and Sensitivity: Rabbi Wolbe stresses avoiding disputes over Kaddish precedence, as fights dishonor the deceased. He praises communal efforts, like arranging minyans for travelers, and reflects on the psychological benefits of shiva for healing, noting the custom of walking around the block post-shiva to reenter life.

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #63) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 14, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 9, 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.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!
_____________
#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Mourning, #Kaddish, #Mourner, #Shiva, #Yartzeit, #Condolences, #Grief, #Sensitivities, #etiquette

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses Siman 134 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, covering the laws of building a sukkah, timed with the preparation period between Yom Kippur (September 20, 2025) and Sukkot (September 25, 2025). He emphasizes the mitzvah’s spiritual significance as a divine “hug” and a fresh start post-Yom Kippur. Key points include:

• Sukkot’s Timing and Purpose: The days between Yom Kippur and Sukkot are “free days” for preparation (building sukkahs, selecting four species), keeping one too busy to sin. Sukkot, called “Yom HaRishon” (first day), is the first opportunity for sin post-Yom Kippur, making it a time to establish new, righteous habits. Dwelling in the sukkah mirrors the Clouds of Glory that protected the Israelites in the desert, symbolizing divine protection and closeness.
• Halachot of Sukkah Construction (Siman 134):
  • Halacha 1: It’s a mitzvah to build the sukkah immediately after Yom Kippur, even on Erev Shabbos (e.g., September 21, 2025). Choose a clean, stable location (e.g., driveway, not mud). Everyone, even dignitaries, should personally participate in building, though the Shehechiyanu blessing is covered by the Kiddush on Sukkot’s first night.
  • Halacha 2: Beautify the sukkah with nice furnishings (e.g., tablecloths, artwork), as one would a home, to honor the mitzvah and the spiritual “guests” (Ushpizin: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, etc.). Walls must be sturdy, with at least two and a half walls, symbolizing Hashem’s hug.
  • Halacha 3–4: Schach must grow from the ground, be detached, and not be susceptible to ritual impurity (tumah). Bamboo mats or tree branches are ideal; pre-cut wood slats or utensils (e.g., ladders, shovels) are invalid. Consult a rabbi if proper schach is unavailable. Supports for schach can be tumah-susceptible items (e.g., metal) after the fact, though stringencies avoid metal entirely.
  • Halacha 5: Schach must provide more shade than sunlight on the floor. If sunlight exceeds shade or there’s a three-tefach (handbreadth) gap, the sukkah is invalid. Thick schach blocking all stars is still kosher, but if it prevents rain penetration, it’s like a permanent roof and invalid.
  • Halacha 6–7: A sukkah needs at least three walls. Invalid schach (e.g., four tefachim wide, about 16 inches) can split a three-walled sukkah, invalidating it. A space less than four amos (eight feet) from a wall is considered a “bent wall,” valid as part of the sukkah, but don’t sit under it. Schach under tree branches (attached to the ground) is invalid, even if cut later, unless lifted and replaced for the sukkah’s sake.
  • Halacha 8–9: For built-in sukkahs with retractable roofs, open the roof before placing schach. A sukkah doesn’t require a mezuzah if temporary, but a permanent sukkah (e.g., part of a house) does. A borrowed sukkah is valid, but a stolen one or one in a public domain is not, unless no alternative exists.
  • Halacha 10–12: Don’t cut schach from others’ trees without permission. Building a sukkah during Chol HaMoed is permitted. Sukkah materials (walls, schach) are designated for the mitzvah and can’t be repurposed (e.g., as a toothpick) until after Simchas Torah.
  • Halacha 13–15: Don’t step on or degrade sukkah materials post-holiday, as they were used for a mitzvah, like tzitzis. Don’t engrave Torah verses on food decorations (e.g., gourds), as they’ll rot, disrespecting the verses. On Erev Sukkos, avoid eating bread after midday to enter the sukkah with an appetite. Increase charity before Sukkot to enhance the mitzvah.
• Spiritual Insights: The sukkah represents leaving comfort zones to bond with Hashem, as the Israelites did in the desert, protected by the Clouds of Glory. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of a community member who builds sukkahs for free, reflecting the mitzvah’s joy, and his childhood memories of using tarps in Brooklyn to shield sukkahs from rain, emphasizing practical challenges and solutions.

The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, encouraging listeners to embrace the holiday’s spiritual renewal and closeness with Hashem, followed by an invitation to the “Ask Away” segment.

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 6, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• 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

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues the discussion of Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on the laws of the mourner’s Kaddish, specifically halachot 5–12, which address priorities for reciting Kaddish when multiple mourners are present. He notes that while these precedence rules are less relevant today due to the common practice of all mourners reciting Kaddish together, they remain significant for understanding halachic priorities. Key points include:

• Recap of Mourning Periods: Rabbi Wolbe reiterates the four mourning stages—shiva (7 days), shloshim (30 days), the first year, and yahrtzeit (annual commemoration)—with shiva mourners having the highest priority for Kaddish, followed by shloshim, year-long mourners, and yahrtzeit observers.
• Halacha 5–6 (Kaddish Allocation): Yahrtzeit and shloshim mourners take precedence over those in the first year, but some Kaddishes (e.g., Rabbi’s Kaddish, post-Aleinu Kaddish) are reserved for yahrtzeit or shloshim mourners. If both a yahrtzeit observer and a shloshim mourner are present, the shloshim mourner recites first, as their obligation continues the next day, while a yahrtzeit observer’s opportunity is limited to the anniversary day.
• Halacha 7–8 (Resolving Conflicts): When two mourners of equal status (e.g., both in shloshim) want to recite Kaddish or lead services, they cast lots (e.g., rock, paper, scissors). The winner of the evening (Ma’ariv) Kaddish yields the morning (Shacharis) Kaddish to the other, with lots cast for the afternoon (Mincha) Kaddish. Residents take precedence over guests with the same mourning status, but guests (e.g., yahrtzeit or shloshim) are granted at least one Kaddish, even over a resident in the first year.
• Halacha 12 (Resident vs. Guest): A resident is defined as someone with a permanent home in the community, regardless of tax status, or someone whose deceased parent was a local resident. Guests include those with homes elsewhere or temporary residents (e.g., students, boarders with living parents). A mourner who regularly prays at another synagogue is not considered a guest and is directed to recite Kaddish there.
• Community Support: Rabbi Wolbe shares an example of Houston’s Jewish community arranging a late-night minyan for a visitor needing to recite Kaddish, highlighting communal responsibility to support mourners.

The episode pauses at halacha 12, with the promise to continue in the next session, and opens the floor for the "Ask Away" segment, encouraging listener questions.
_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #63) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 5, 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.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!
_____________
#Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #Mourning, #Kaddish, #Mourner, #Shiva, #Yartzeit, #Condolences, #Grief, #Sensitivities, #etiquette

In Episode 16 of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, recorded during the month of Elul (preceding Rosh Hashanah 2025), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe answers diverse listener questions with halachic clarity and personal anecdotes, fostering spiritual preparation for the high holidays. The episode addresses:

• Shofar Blowing: Women are obligated to hear the shofar and can blow it themselves if unable to attend synagogue, prioritizing mitzvah observance while respecting holiday sanctity (e.g., avoiding driving). 
• Kosher vs. Glatt Kosher: Kosher includes permissible foods (e.g., fruits, vegetables without insects, animals with split hooves and cud-chewing, fish with fins and scales) certified by agencies like OU. Glatt kosher refers to meat from animals with smooth, defect-free lungs, ensuring higher scrutiny. Rabbi Wolbe recounts finding a tumor during a slaughter inspection, highlighting Glatt's rigor.
• Hospital Kosher Food: Breaking a kosher food seal invalidates its status due to potential tampering or non-kosher equipment exposure. Rabbi Wolbe praises Houston’s Aishel House for providing kosher meals to hospital patients, underscoring community support.
• Jewish Women’s Role: Men are obligated (per the ketubah) to provide financially, physically, and emotionally, while women focus on nurturing and child-rearing, though they can pursue careers. Rabbi Wolbe critiques Gen X and Gen Z’s entitlement and impatience, urging patience and responsibility.
• Yetzer Hara: The evil inclination anticipates choices but can be outsmarted with “trickery” (e.g., acting promptly to avoid procrastination), a key strategy for teshuvah during Elul.

The episode concludes with a shofar blowing to awaken the soul for Rosh Hashanah, encouraging listeners to reflect on personal goals and prayers. Rabbi Wolbe’s responses blend halacha, practical advice (e.g., using Aishel House), and stories (e.g., Rabbi Nota Greenblatt’s shofar ruling in Soviet Russia), aligning with Elul’s introspective theme.

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on October 1, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#Torah, #Halacha, #Jewish, #ask, #RoshHashanah, #shofar, #womensrights, #kosher, #insects, #glatt, #genderroles, #marriage, #Elul, #mindfulness

In this episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses Siman 26 of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, focusing on the laws of the mourner’s Kaddish and the role of the chazan (prayer leader) for mourners. He explains that reciting Kaddish and serving as chazan are significant acts of merit for deceased parents, ideally performed by one person for clarity, though modern practice often involves multiple mourners reciting Kaddish in unison to avoid confusion. Kaddish declares Hashem as the master of the universe, reminding us of life’s purpose and the transient nature of existence. Rabbi Wolbe contrasts the reflective clarity gained at a mourner’s house, which prompts introspection about life’s purpose, with the distractions of a wedding celebration, as per the Talmud’s teaching. Key halachic points include:

1. Merit of Kaddish: The Midrash highlights that a child’s recitation of Kaddish saves parents from harsh judgment, making it customary for children (or community members, if no children exist) to recite Kaddish, lead prayers (especially after Shabbos), or take the Maftir Aliyah.
2. Precedence Rules: Mourners within the seven-day Shiva period take precedence over those in the 30-day shloshim, the year-long mourning, or annual Yahrtzeit observers. Shiva begins from burial, not death, and Kaddish obligations persist even if a festival interrupts Shiva, unlike other mourning practices.
3. Minors and Yahrzeit: A minor in Shiva shares Kaddish opportunities with yahrtzeit observers, but an adult in Shiva takes precedence, potentially reciting all Kaddishes except one allocated to others via a lot. Modern congregations typically have all mourners recite together, bypassing strict precedence.
4. Mourning Periods: Rabbi Wolbe outlines four mourning stages—Shiva (seven days, with the first three for intense grief), shloshim (30 days), the year, and annual yahrtzeit—noting the psychological wisdom of Shiva's structure for processing loss. He advises silence when visiting mourners unless prompted, sharing personal anecdotes about insensitive comments made during Shiva for his daughter’s and sister’s losses, emphasizing the need for sensitivity.

The episode pauses at halacha six, to be continued, and opens the floor for questions in the Ask Away session. Rabbi Wolbe underscores the spiritual and psychological significance of Kaddish and mourning practices, urging listeners to approach them with purpose and sensitivity.

To have your questions featured on the Ask Away series, please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #58) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on August 31, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 30, 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.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!
_____________
#AskAway, #Halacha, #Jewishlaw, #JewishMourning, #Kaddish, #Mourner, #Shiva, #Yartzeit, #Condolences, #Grief, #Sensitivities

In this bonus episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe covers the 17 sections of Siman 131 from the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, detailing the laws and customs of Erev Yom Kippur, a day blending penitential preparation and festive joy in anticipation of Hashem’s mercy on the Day of Atonement. Key practices include:

1. Kaparos: A customary atonement ritual performed early in the morning, using a rooster for males, a hen for females, or money (preferred by Rabbi Wolbe for donation to Houston Tomchei Shabbos: https://tomchei-shabbat.com) to symbolize atonement, with white chickens preferred but not mandatory to avoid superstition. The ritual involves circling the item around the head while reciting prayers, emphasizing repentance over the act itself, with intestines offered to birds to invoke divine mercy.
2. Festive Meals: A mitzvah to eat heartily, especially fish in the first meal and easily digestible foods like poultry in the second, avoiding spicy or warming foods, to equate eating on the 9th of Tishrei to fasting on the 10th.
3. Seeking Forgiveness: Yom Kippur atones only for sins against Hashem, not interpersonal wrongs, requiring direct appeasement or mediation for forgiveness, with a call to forgive sincerely, as withholding forgiveness is un-Jewish. Rabbi Wolbe shares a story of Rabbi Mordechai Schwab’s sensitivity in protecting his father from embarrassment, exemplifying righteous compassion.
4. Mikvah Immersion: Men customarily immerse in a mikvah after midday for spiritual purity and repentance, with no barriers like jewelry allowed; women typically do not unless specific conditions apply.
5. Candles and Clothing: Lighting candles for the home and synagogue, wearing Shabbos garments for Mincha, and donning a kittel (white robe) to evoke humility, with women wearing white but avoiding jewelry.
6. Vidui and Blessings: Reciting the confession prayer after Mincha’s silent Amidah, striking the chest for each sin, and parents blessing children with a special prayer for righteousness and a good life, found in the Machzor.
7. Other Customs: Omitting certain prayers (e.g., Mizmor L’Todah, Avinu Malkeinu), receiving symbolic lashes in some Sephardic communities, and preparing the home with white tablecloths to honor Yom Kippur as a festival. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes starting Yom Kippur early, avoiding preparations for after the fast, and concludes with a story of Rabbi Moshe Feinstein’s brother-in-law, illustrating how sponsoring a mikvah fulfills teshuvah’s three steps (regret, acceptance, action), reinforcing the theme of actionable repentance.

Rabbi Wolbe concludes with a blessing for complete atonement, a sweet and healthy new year, and acceptance of sincere repentance.

To donate to Houston's Tomchei Shabbos: https://tomchei-shabbat.com
_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on September 28, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 29, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#Torah, #Halacha, #Jewish, #YomKippur, #Purification, #Repentance, #Kaparos, #Atonement, #DivineMercy, #Rituals, #Mikvah, #Kindness, #Humility, #Teshuva, #CandleLighting, #Shabbos, #Fasting, #Kittel, #Sanctity, #Renewal

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 Ten Days of Repentance and Preparing for Yom Kippur with and some of the basic laws and customs observed during these special days.

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

*****
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 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 September 19,  2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 19, 2023

In this 15th episode of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses two questions related to Jewish practices surrounding death and repentance. Responding to Marilyn Robinson’s question about prayers at a loved one’s gravesite, Rabbi Wolbe explains the custom of reciting Psalm 119, using the letters of the deceased’s name (and sometimes their parents’ names) to select verses, followed by Kaddish with a minyan for its protective power over the soul. He emphasizes that Kaddish acknowledges Hashem’s mastery, helping cleanse the soul from worldly distractions during the temporary purgatory process, which is not eternal except for the truly wicked. Personal prayers or conversations at the gravesite are valid for healing, but one should not pray to the deceased, only asking them to intercede with Hashem. Addressing the second question about Selichot timing, Rabbi Wolbe notes that Sephardic Jews begin Selichot at the start of Elul, following Moshe’s ascent for the second tablets, marked by daily shofar blowing to prevent sin, while Ashkenazic Jews start a week or four days before Rosh Hashanah, depending on the calendar. Both communities recite Selichot during the Ten Days of Repentance, aligning with the period of seeking forgiveness, which Hashem grants readily upon sincere request, unlike human grudges. Rabbi Wolbe encourages learning from Hashem’s forgiving nature and invites further questions for future episodes.

In this episode of Ask Away we address these questions and topics:

• Marilyn: What is a prayer you recite at a loved one's gravesite?
• Carlos: Why do some start Selichot one month before Rosh Hashanah and others 10 days or a week before?

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #60) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on August 31, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 22, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#Torah, #Halacha, #Jewish, #Customs, #spirituality, #gravesite, #Kaddish, #afterlife, #faith, #responsibility, #inspire, #faith

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 Rosh Hashanah, and some of the basic laws of Shofar, Tashlich that are done on Rosh Hashanah.

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

*****
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 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 September 12,  2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 15, 2023

In the 14th episode of the Ask Away series on the Everyday Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe addresses a range of student questions with a focus on ethical speech, charity, and prayer. Marilyn’s questions on Lashon Hara (evil speech) prompt Rabbi Wolbe to recommend the Chafetz Chaim’s book, emphasizing the prohibition against negative speech unless addressing known evil, like ruthless dictators, for educational purposes, and urging caution in the age of social media and AI-generated misinformation, where the Talmud’s insistence on sourced information serves as a model. Marilyn also inquires about speaking out against evil or hate crimes, to which Rabbi Wolbe advises leaving such matters to authorities while judging actions, not people, and avoiding judgment unless one fully understands another’s circumstances. Bruce questions the ethics of charities sending solicitation items or small amounts of money, and Rabbi Wolbe agrees that sharing donor information is inappropriate and potentially theft, finding such marketing tactics distasteful, though permissible, and advises individuals to choose charities freely without guilt. Eric asks about Psalms for the current war in Israel, leading Rabbi Wolbe to praise Psalm 100 for gratitude and encourage heartfelt personal prayers, and explains Poteach Et Yadecha in Ashrei (Psalm 145) as a reminder of human dependence on Hashem’s provision, fostering trust (bitachon) and calm by recognizing that all needs are met in their proper time. Rabbi Wolbe concludes by urging mindful recitation of prayers to alleviate stress and cultivate happiness, trusting in Hashem’s care.

In this episode of Ask Away we address these questions and topics:

• Marilyn: Musar teaches us silence, which means guarding our tongue, a tool to consider the potential impact of our words. In today’s world, with technology and war, and we are not face-to-face with people, when is it appropriate to speak, even when it may cause harm, and what is an example, please?
• Marilyn: In today’s war, is it appropriate to stand up for yourself and speak out against a person who is evil?
• Marilyn: What about people who are physically harming Jews as hate crimes?
• Bruce: When charities send money or items like nickels, cards, or tote bags in solicitation letters, or ask to match a small amount like $3, is it appropriate to throw these out, and is it wrong for charities to use donated funds for such marketing tactics?
• Eric: Regarding the situation in Israel with the multi-front war, what is the best Psalm to say every morning for spiritual connection, given that I say Shema and Psalm 23 daily?
• Eric: What should I think about when I say Poteach et Yadecha in the Ashrei prayer?

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism 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.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

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

This episode (Ep. #59) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on June 22, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 15, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast on Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C) to stay inspired! 
Share your questions at askaway@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: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________
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 http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________

Keywords:
#Torah, #Halacha, #Speech, #Mussar, #Silence, #Words, #ChafetzChaim, #LashonHara, #Relationships, #Ethical, #Business, #Charitable, #Integrity, #Honesty, #Prayer, #Intention, #Gratitude, #Connection, #Well-being, #Peace, #Happiness, #Mindfulness, #DailyLife