In this Everyday Judaism episode on practical Jewish law (Kitzur Shulchan Aruch, Siman 40), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains the rabbinic obligation of netilat yadayim (ritual hand-washing) before eating bread—a meal's centerpiece. Rooted in Temple-era purity laws (tumah and taharah) to prepare for terumah consumption, this decree persists today to maintain readiness for the future Temple, promote physical hygiene (highlighted during COVID-19), and foster spiritual holiness by countering arrogance.
Key rules include using a complete, spoutless vessel (kli) with a flat top; pouring a generous revi'it (about 3–4 oz) of clean water twice per hand (right first), covering up to the wrist in one flow; reciting "al netilat yadayim" after washing while raising hands; and thoroughly drying (not on clothes, to avoid forgetfulness). Alternatives for no vessel: immersing in a river/mikvah/spring, or (in need) snow or faucet with human force.
Rabbi Wolbe shares inspiring stories (Chafetz Chaim's sensitivity and humility) and emphasizes washing's deeper purpose: humbling ourselves before bread's 11-step process, recognizing accomplishments as Hashem's gifts rather than our own. The episode transitions to Ask Away #27, urging maximal spiritual use of Zos Chanukah (eighth day) through gazing at menorah lights, prayer, and abundant thanks to Hashem.
The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #27.
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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
This episode (Ep. #81) 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 December 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 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:
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, #blessings, #Kitzur, #NetilatYadayim, #HandWashing, #Halacha, #SpiritualHumility, #EverydayJudaism
In this engaging Ask Away episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields practical and profound questions from participants:
The episode blends halachic precision with inspirational stories, emphasizing prayer as intimate conversation with Hashem, sensitivity in relationships, and viewing challenges as opportunities for growth.
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
This episode (Ep. #80) 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 December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 22, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast
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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #Oath, #Kohen, #Prayer, #AskingForSigns #KosherKitchen #Shabbos, #JewishLaw
In this engaging Ask Away episode, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe tackles listener questions on everyday halacha and deeper Jewish concepts. Key topics include:
The episode overflows with inspiring stories of divine protection and encouragement to appreciate open Torah study in America amid 2,000 years of relentless persecution.
Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org
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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
This episode (Ep. #79) 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 December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 22, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast
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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Traditions, #Law, #LashonHara, #GoogleReviews, #Kaddish, #Ordination, #Brachot, #Blessings, #Miracles, #IDF, #Faith, #Struggles
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 Chanukah in all its details; The lighting of the Menorah, The oil, Wicks, Placement, The Blessings and Prayers and so much more.
Download & Print the Living Jewishly Halacha Notes: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5?usp=sharing
*****
To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol
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 December 15, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 15, 2022
The entire chapter 39 of the Kitzur is about one practical question: “I’m about to sit down for a full bread meal in 15 minutes, but I’m starving right now – can I grab a snack without making a separate after-bracha later?” The answer is mostly yes. If you eat (or drink anything except wine) before washing for bread and you will eat/drink the same thing again during the meal, many authorities (including the Mishnah Berurah’s primary opinion) say the Birkat Hamazon at the end covers everything you ate earlier – no extra after-bracha is not needed. To stay safe from doubt, the Kitzur’s advice is simple: either (a) don’t eat those foods before the meal, or (b) make sure you eat a little of the same food again during the meal so everything is clearly connected.
Wine is the big exception (as always): it always needs its own before-bracha, and if you drink it before the meal you should either drink a revi’it again after Birkat Hamazon and make Al Hagefen, or simply avoid wine until Kiddush. Cakes, cookies, pretzels, and other mezonot items follow the lenient rule – if you’ll have mezonot again during the meal, Birkat Hamazon covers the pre-meal nosh too. Rabbi Wolbe’s bottom line: “Better to avoid the whole question and not snack right before a bread meal… but if you do, just eat a bite of the same thing during the meal and you’re golden.”
The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #25.
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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
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 December 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 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:
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, #blessings, #Kitzur, #BirkatHaMazon, #gratitude, #foodblessings, #wineblessings, #afterblessings, #Jewishcustoms
In this lively Ask Away session, Rabbi Wolbe clarified that the Talmudic category of “idolater” (akum) in kosher laws refers to any non-Jew who does not share our Torah values and meticulous concern for kashrut – today that includes Muslims, Christians, atheists, etc. – not just literal idol-worshippers; the laws were never about hating non-Jews but about protecting Jewish standards and limiting excessive social intimacy. He also explained that giving flowers to one’s wife (or girlfriend when seriously dating toward marriage) is not only permitted but strongly encouraged by the Rambam, Shulchan Aruch, Rav Moshe Feinstein, and virtually all contemporary Poskim – because it creates shalom bayit and expresses love; flowers are never placed on Jewish graves (we use stones to symbolize permanence of the soul), but for a living spouse they are a beautiful, halachically praised gift that says “I thought about you.”
On deeper topics, Rabbi Wolbe taught that true bitachon and saying “Gam zu l’tovah” do not cancel out tears or heartfelt prayer – tears are always welcome and open Heaven’s gates; bitachon simply means we reaffirm that even the pain is ultimately for our good. He addressed inter-movement rabbinic courts by explaining that authentic halachic authority requires (1) belief that the Torah is divine and (2) personal observance of that Torah – without those foundations, rulings lack legitimacy in traditional Judaism. Finally, he stressed that flying (or any long-distance travel) on Shabbat is prohibited due to multiple biblical and rabbinic violations, and Shabbat is meant for spiritual connection, not vacation-style activities like swimming or horseback riding.
Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org
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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
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 November 23, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 30, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast
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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Traditions, #Law, #Diversity, #Spirituality, #Labels, #Faith, #Prayer, #PositiveAffirmations, #Anxiety, #Trust, #Tears, #Kindness, #Shabbat, #Israel, #Resilience, #Vibrancy, #Relationships, #Marriage
Jewish law prohibits bread (Pas Akum), cooked foods (Bishul Akum), and milk/cheese (Chalav/Gevinat Akum) prepared by non-Jews, not because the food itself is biblically non-kosher, but because the Sages wanted to limit close social bonding and the risk of intermarriage in ancient times, while also guarding against real kashrut problems (non-kosher animals, fats, etc.). For bread, a Jew must bake it or at least turn on the oven (Pas Yisrael); for cooked foods, the dish must be something not eaten raw and fit for a royal table, and a Jew must participate in the cooking; for milk, a Jew must supervise the milking (Chalav Yisrael) and cheese-making.
In modern America (2025), government regulation and abundant kosher options have dramatically relaxed many of these rules according to the vast majority of poskim: supermarket bread (Wonder Bread, H-E-B, etc.) is permitted when no Jewish bakery is nearby, regular USDA milk and butter are kosher (Chalav Stam per Rav Moshe Feinstein), and most factory-canned, sealed, or restaurant foods where a Jew turned on the flame are fine. The gold standard for the meticulous remains Pas Yisrael, Bishul Yisrael, and Chalav Yisrael whenever reasonably available, but for everyday life in the U.S., plain coffee, beer, and grocery-store staples are reliably kosher.
The episode concludes with a transition to the Ask Away #24.
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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
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 23, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 24, 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:
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, #Idolator, #assimilation, #intermarriage, #kosher, #cooking, #baking, #milking
In this engaging Ask Away #23 episode of the Everyday Judaism podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields practical kosher questions emphasizing accessibility for all levels of observance. Key topics include acquiring utensils from non-Jews: new metal items require Tevilah (immersion in a mikvah) but not Kashering if unused, while repaired vessels over 3–5 ounces need re-Tevilah only if significantly renewed. Countertops like granite are easily Kashered with boiling water, but manufactured stones (e.g., quartz/quartzite) may pose absorption issues—consult a rabbi before purchase. Porcelain sinks can't be Kashered, favoring stainless steel; Formica Kashers via hot water pour-over or steaming iron. Grills reaching 600°F self-Kasher through Libun Gamur (full incineration), and oven self-clean cycles achieve the same.
Callers explore nuances like rust (clean for health, not halacha), small vessels (exempt from re-Tevilah if repaired minimally), and non-kosher materials (wood, plastic, silicone can't be Kashered—dedicate new ones to meat/dairy/parve). Mikvahs are pristine via advanced filtration, with separate pools for women, men, and utensils to maintain sanctity. Rabbi Wolbe shares anecdotes, like koshering a friend's grill covertly or his grandmother's accidental dairy-after-meat dessert, stressing mistakes are growth opportunities—inform hosts of your kitchen status to avoid issues.
On broader themes, Rabbi Wolbe advises against expecting moral perfection from politicians; Jewish voting prioritizes safety for Jews here and in Israel, reevaluating per election without herd mentality. Torah leaders (e.g., Rebbe Aaron Leib Steinman) exemplify angelic character alongside wisdom. The episode promotes mikvah tours, supporting Jewish products when possible, and embracing ones personal spiritual journey without shame.
Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org
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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
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 November 2, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 19, 2025
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast
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:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Traditions, #Law, #KosherKitchen, #Countertops, #Utensils, #MoralCharacter, #Politics, #JewishTradition, #Mikvah, #GefilteFish, #KosherLaws
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.
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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
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:
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:
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
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:
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.
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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
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:
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:
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
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:
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:
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
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:
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:
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
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:
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:
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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
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:
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.
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
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:
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:
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
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:
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:
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
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:
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:
_____________
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
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:
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:
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
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: