Episodes

  • From Gaunt Cows to Eight Bright Lights (Parsha Pearls: Mikeitz) 5786

    From Gaunt Cows to Eight Bright Lights (Parsha Pearls: Mikeitz) 5786
    Dec 19 2025
    In this Parshas Miketz review—always read on Shabbos Chanukah—Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe uncovers the profound link between Pharaoh's disturbing dreams and the miracle of Chanukah. Pharaoh dreams of seven gaunt cows devouring seven robust ones, and seven thin, scorched ears swallowing seven healthy stalks—images that shatter his worldview where the strong always overpower the weak, the many dominate the few, and the beautiful prevail. This reversal terrifies him, as it defies the "laws of nature" he knows.The rabbi explains that Pharaoh's nightmare encapsulates Jewish history: the Jewish people, perpetually the few, the weak, and the persecuted, miraculously overcome mighty empires—from Greece in the Chanukah story to countless assaults over 2,000 years (with scarcely a decade without pogroms, expulsions, or blood libels). Chanukah celebrates precisely this reversal: the weak Maccabees defeating the vast Greek army, the pure overcoming the impure, and a single cruse of oil burning for eight days.Just as Pharaoh's dream disturbed the natural order, Jewish survival and triumph defy logic—proving Hashem's direct intervention. Our mission is not physical conquest but spiritual illumination: proudly displaying the menorah, living Torah values openly, and thanking Hashem ceaselessly for both light and darkness, success and challenge. Shabbos candles even take precedence over Chanukah lights for the sake of shalom bayis (peace in the home), underscoring that harmony is the foundation for all miracles._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on December 19, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 19, 2025_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Joseph, #Chanukah #Miketz #Pharaoh, #Dreams, #Miracles, #Weak, #Strong, #Hanukkah, #JewishHistory, #Divine, #Light, #Darkness, #ShalomBayis ★ Support this podcast ★
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    22 mins
  • The Heartbeat of Growth: Ups and Downs (Parsha Pearls: Vayeishev) 5786

    The Heartbeat of Growth: Ups and Downs (Parsha Pearls: Vayeishev) 5786
    Dec 19 2025
    In this Parsha Review episode on Parshas Vayeishev, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores the story of Yosef as a paradigm of divine guidance amid human challenges. Yosef, described as an "Ish Matzliach" (successful man) whose every endeavor prospered because "Hashem was with him," rose from slave to overseer in Potiphar's house—yet when entrusted with everything except "the bread he ate," the Torah abruptly notes Yosef's handsome appearance. Rashi explains Yosef began beautifying himself out of pride in his sudden success, forgetting his father Yaakov's mourning; Hashem responded with the ultimate test—Potiphar's wife's seduction—to realign his priorities.Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that all events, even painful ones from people, are Hashem's precise "midah k'neged midah" (measure for measure) messages for growth, not random cruelty. Wicked messengers like Nebuchadnezzar (called "My servant") or historical evils fulfill decrees but are punished for volunteering malice. Prayer, teshuva, and mitzvot allow us to change decrees before they fully manifest, as Yosef did by resisting temptation and earning the title "Yosef HaTzaddik."True greatness invites profound challenges—the deeper the pit (literally for Yosef), the higher the ascent. Spiritual growth isn't steady but full of ups and downs; success follows the greatest struggles, mirroring a living heartbeat rather than a flatline. As long as we're "above the grass," we can embrace challenges, repent, and rise._____________This episode of the Parsha Review Podcast is dedicated in honor of Lenny & Teresa FriedmanDownload & Print the Parsha Review Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ncaRyoH5iJmGGoMZs9y82Hz2ofViVouv?usp=sharingRecorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on December 16, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on December 19, 2025_____________Subscribe: Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parsha-review-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1651930083)Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/22lv1kXJob5ZNLaAl6CHTQ) to stay inspired! Share your questions at awolbe@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/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#Torah, #Parsha, #Genesis, #Joseph, #Challenges, #prayer, #repentance, #divineguidance, #growth ★ Support this podcast ★
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    30 mins
  • This SHOCKING Take on Money and Successful May Change Your Life Forever (Parsha Power: Mikeitz) 5785

    This SHOCKING Take on Money and Successful May Change Your Life Forever (Parsha Power: Mikeitz) 5785
    Dec 17 2025

    Join us in this thought-provoking exploration of life's purpose as we draw inspiration from Parshas Mikeitz and the significance of the word "Vayehi" in the Torah. Listen as we discuss Pharaoh's dreams and their role as a wake-up call, prompting us to consider the inevitable end of life and the ultimate judgment before the heavenly tribunal. We emphasize the importance of self-reflection on our life's accomplishments and how we might respond to the Almighty about our deeds. Through a touching personal story of a friend's conversion process and a compelling parable on measuring one's life by Torah study and selfless dedication, we encourage listeners to ponder the meaningfulness of their existence and the actions they take in fulfilling their life's purpose.

    We also explore the concept of living by the word of Hashem, recognizing Him as the ultimate provider of sustenance. Acknowledging that our skills and labor are not the true sources of our support, we reflect on the divine hand guiding every aspect of our lives. As we navigate the journey of our temporary existence, the discussion highlights the importance of embracing our mission to accomplish, act, and strive for a closer relationship with God. This episode invites you to embrace the understanding that our success and livelihood are decreed by God, urging us to focus on nurturing a deep connection with the divine throughout our lifetime.

    _____________
    This episode (Ep 7.10) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mikeitz is dedicated in Honor of Yossi & Ashlene Azoulay & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

    Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 29, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 30, 2024
    _____________
    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.tansistor.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!
    _____________
    #Torah, #Parsha, #Mikeitz, #Joseph, #Pharaoh, #Conversion, #TorahStudy, #Life, #Purpose, #God, #Blessings, #Spiritual, #Connection, #Temporary, #Meaningfulness, #UltimateJudgment, #HeavenlyTribunal, #Self-Reflection, #Accomplishments, #Divine, #Livelihood, #Success, #Mission, #Relationship

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    17 mins
  • Deciphering Divine Timing and Miracles: Lessons from Yosef's Life (Parsha In-Focus: Mikeitz) 5784

    Deciphering Divine Timing and Miracles: Lessons from Yosef's Life (Parsha In-Focus: Mikeitz) 5784
    Dec 16 2025

    Join us as we explore the profound lessons from the Parsha of Mikeitz and the story of Yosef in Egypt in our Parsha Review Podcast. This compelling chapter will urge you to read and embrace the divine messages in the Torah. We dissect Yosef's acceptance of his extended prison time, viewing it as part of his life's mission, an example of Hashem's divine plan. Listen closely as we scrutinize the verses where Pharaoh calls for Yosef, and the swift transition from prisoner to standing before Pharaoh. We share the profound belief that Hashem has complete control over the timing of events in our lives, and that often, we only recognize the miracles years later. You're encouraged to reflect on your own life experiences and see how events that initially appeared negative, turned out to be blessings in disguise.

    We then dive into the importance of constantly acknowledging and expressing gratitude for the good that Hashem brings into our lives. We discuss our desire to understand Hashem's miracles deeper and believe that everything He does is for the good. We highlight Hashem's orchestration and emphasize recognizing His hand in everything, drawing from this week's Parsha as an example. We end the chapter with a blessing for a meaningful Shabbos and the ability to always recognize Hashem's goodness in our lives. Tune in to this enlightening episode and deepen your understanding of Hashem's miracles and His divine timing.

    This episode (Ep 6.10) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Mikeitz is dedicated in Honor of our dear friend Moshe Butler & our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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


    ****

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

    • 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 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/donate.
    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 12, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 14, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    18 mins
  • 1.10 Parshas Mikeitz Review: Hashem's Miracles and Divine Timing

    1.10 Parshas Mikeitz Review: Hashem's Miracles and Divine Timing
    Dec 15 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.10) on Mikeitz by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

    00:00 Parsha Summary
    7:48 Important Lessons Segment

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

    *****

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

    • 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 parsha 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 22, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 22, 2022

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    27 mins
  • Joseph: Finding Strength in Adversity (Parsha Power: Vayeishev) 5785

    Joseph: Finding Strength in Adversity (Parsha Power: Vayeishev) 5785
    Dec 11 2025

    Uncover the transformative power of honesty and adversity as we journey through Parshas Vayeishev, unraveling the intricate dynamics among the twelve tribes and their contentious relationship with Joseph. Prepare to see revered figures of the Torah in a new light, with their human flaws serving as profound lessons in integrity. This episode promises a deeper understanding of how the Torah’s commitment to truth transcends the superficiality often found in politics, offering us timeless teachings on authenticity and ethical living.


    As we navigate through the challenges faced by Joseph, discover how adversity can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and spiritual enlightenment. Joseph's resilience and ability to perceive a divine plan amid his trials inspire a mindset of gratitude and forgiveness. Explore how small acts of kindness and thoughtful communication can embody larger principles essential for personal development. Join us as we emphasize gratitude, forgiveness, and the importance of recognizing life's bigger picture, drawing wisdom from Torah teachings and recommending valuable resources like the Schottenstein interlinear Chumash to enrich your learning journey.

    _____________
    This episode (Ep 7.9) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeishev is dedicated in Honor of Yossi & Ashlene Azoulay & in honor of our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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

    Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on December 17, 2024, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 20, 2024
    _____________
    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.tansistor.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!
    _____________
    #Torah, #ParshaVayeshev, #Joseph, #Adversity, #Growth, #Gratitude, #Forgiveness, #Authenticity, #Ethics, #Integrity, #PersonalDevelopment, #DivinePlan, #TorahTeachings, #SchottensteinInterlinearChumash, #StoneEditionChumash, #TorahLearning, #Yaakov, #Struggles, #Tribes, #Jealousy

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    20 mins
  • Guarding Temptations (Parsha In-Focus: Vayeishev) 5784

    Guarding Temptations (Parsha In-Focus: Vayeishev) 5784
    Dec 10 2025

    Promised to take you on a journey of exploration through the profound stories of Er, Onan, Joseph, and Potiphar's wife in Parsha Vayeishev. In this episode, we lay bare the dire repercussions of squandering one’s potential and power, particularly in the realm of procreation (Shemiras Habris). We delve into the vital responsibility we all carry to responsibly utilize our God-given abilities and power. We also highlight the key role women play in maintaining modesty and fostering a righteous life, and how crucial it is not to provoke inappropriate thoughts in others.

    In a world riddled with distractions and temptations, safeguarding our spirituality becomes paramount. As we navigate through the story of Yosef, we highlight the courage it took for him to flee a situation that threatened his spirituality. The narrative prompts us to reflect on the potential pitfalls that may jeopardize our own spiritual well-being and the well-being of our children. Drawing from personal experiences, we emphasize the significance of prioritizing our spiritual health and seeking divine guidance and protection on our journey towards holiness. Tune in, and let's take this enlightening journey together.

    This episode (Ep 6.9) of the Parsha Review Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeishev is dedicated in Honor of our dear friend Moshe Butler & our Holy Soldiers in the Battlefield and our Torah Scholars in the Study Halls who are fighting for the safety of our nation!

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


    ****

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

    • 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 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/donate.
    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 5, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on December 6, 2023

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    17 mins
  • 1.9 Parshas Vayeishev Review: Joseph's Tale - The Unseen Master Plan

    1.9 Parshas Vayeishev Review: Joseph's Tale - The Unseen Master Plan
    Dec 9 2025

    This Parsha Review Podcast (Ep 1.9) by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe on Parshas Vayeishev offers a refreshing, clear and concise review as he does for each Parsha in the Torah.

    This episode is dedicated in honor of Alan & Diane Levin who have been solid stalwarts of TORCH and its mission!

    00:00 Parsha Summary
    7:50 Important Lessons Segment

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

    *****

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

    • 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 parsha 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

    ★ Support this podcast ★
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    42 mins