In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the approaching Rosh Hashanah, just two days away, emphasizing it as a time to realign with one’s purpose and mission in life. He encourages listeners to evaluate their goals for the new year, citing his own experience of surpassing ambitious goals from the previous year as evidence of divine assistance when one commits to meaningful objectives. Drawing from the Mesillat Yesharim by the Ramchal, Rabbi Wolbe underscores the importance of cleaving to Hashem by aligning personal will with divine will, as exemplified by Moshe, described as a servant of Hashem in his eulogy. He explains that repentance (teshuvah) involves removing barriers like arrogance, comforts, and distractions (e.g., social media, gaming) that separate us from Hashem, returning to a state of oneness akin to a fetus in the womb, unburdened by physical limitations. Referencing Parshas Nitzavim, he highlights the verse (Deuteronomy 30:11-14) that the mitzvah—interpreted by Rashi as Torah study and by the Ramban as teshuvah—is accessible through the heart and mouth, requiring desire and effort. Rabbi Wolbe shares personal anecdotes, like his struggle to master drumming rhythms and his initial intimidation teaching complex prayers, to illustrate that persistent effort, even in the face of doubt, leads to divine clarity and success. He stresses the importance of accepting rabbinic guidance humbly, even when disagreeing, and critiques congregational disregard for rabbis’ spiritual leadership. Finally, he connects the numerical value of “this mitzvah” (zot, 408) to teshuvah, tefillah, and tzedakah (fasting, prayer, charity), which remove evil decrees, sharing a donor’s perspective that charity is giving God’s money, reinforcing divine trust. Rabbi Wolbe concludes with a blessing for a year of health, clarity, and Torah study, urging listeners to recognize Hashem as the source of all creation.
Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on September 12, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on September 14, 2025
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About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org
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Keywords:
#RoshHashanah, #Self-reflection, #Teshuva, #Repentance, #JewishPrinciples, #Hashem, #Humility, #Guidance, #Kindness, #GoodHealth, #Clarity, #DivineEnergy