Welcome to "The Weekly Parsha with Michoel Brooke," your go-to podcast for engaging and accessible Torah study. Join us as we dive deep into the weekly Torah Parshios, offering insightful commentary and practical life lessons catering to beginners and seasoned learners. Each 15-25-minute episode provides a comprehensive yet digestible exploration of the Parsha, ensuring you get the most out of your Jewish learning experience. By tuning in, you'll discover valuable wisdom from the Parsha that ...
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Parshas Re'eh: Tests, Trials, and Unwavering Faith (Rebroadcast)
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Life's journey often feels like a roller coaster, filled with moments of extreme clarity and times of profound confusion. When my second daughter was born, a sudden emergency alarm at the hospital threw us into a state of panic, only to reveal it was a test—a metaphor for the divine trials we face each day. These tests, as discussed through insight…
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Parshas Va'eschanan: Forever Young and Resisting Beechwood Aging
27:05
27:05
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What if the key to preventing spiritual decline is rekindling our youthful enthusiasm? Join us as we uncover the profound wisdom of "Vinoshantim" from the Torah readings of Tisha B'Av and Parsha's Veschanon. This episode deeply explores how growing spiritually old and uninspired led to the exile and destruction of the First Temple after 852 years o…
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What if the true challenge isn't surviving hardships but thriving in times of prosperity? This week, we invite you to join our exploration of Sefer Devarim, the fifth book of the Pentateuch, beginning with Parshas Devarim. Hear Moses’ final address to the Jewish people, brimming with critical lessons and subtle rebukes for past transgressions. Unco…
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Parshas Matos-Masei: Free T-Shirts from Cities of Refuge
25:26
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Have you ever wondered why the fate of an accidental killer is tied to the life of the Kohen Gadol? Join us as we explore this intriguing spiritual dynamic and much more in our family's first speaking engagement in the Catskill Mountains. Reflecting on our journey through Sefer Bamidbar and transitioning into Sefer Devarim, we'll share our invaluab…
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Parshas Pinchas: THE HARDEST JOB IN THE WORLD
30:33
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What makes an exceptional leader in the face of monumental challenges? This week, we uncover the profound journey of selecting a successor to Moshe Rabbeinu, the unparalleled leader who parted the sea and stood as an intercessor between the Jewish people and God. Through the lens of Parshas Pinchas, we explore Moshe's heartfelt plea to Hashem for a…
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In this episode, we compare Avraham's zeal with Bilam's passion. We also discuss whether passion for spiritual pursuits matches the intensity we often dedicate to worldly ambitions. Join us as we explore this profound question through Rav Moshe Feinstein's teachings, focusing on the striking contrast between Bilam's fervent journey to curse the Jew…
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Parshas Chukas: "This is the most potent antidote against our inclination. It is so easy, and its impact is so significant." -Ramchal
29:44
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What if you could transform your spiritual life with just 60 seconds of contemplation a week? Discover how the teachings of the Ramchal provide the "Golden Key" to self-control and overcoming the Yetzirah, and learn how to ignite the dormant knowledge of God within you. Through reflection, we uncover the profound lessons from Parsha Chukas, recount…
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Parshas Korach: Jealousy, Rebellion, and the Power of Character
31:45
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Can jealousy lead even the most righteous of individuals to ruin? Unpack the tragic story of Korach with us as we explore how envy over his cousin Elitzaphan's appointment drove a respected Talmud Chacham to rebellion against Moshe, resulting in catastrophic consequences. Dive deep into Korach's virtues and pivotal roles, such as his participation …
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Parshas Shlach: Our Jewish Obligation in 2024
27:09
27:09
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What happens when your understanding of Jewish law diverges from the Rambam's interpretation? Join us as we recount a gripping study session where my chavrusa and I faced just that dilemma while exploring the validity of a Sukkah during Sukkot. Our journey through the Gemara and the words of Reb Chaim Soloveitchik left us feeling more perplexed tha…
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Parshas Ba'aloscha: Fleeing from Mount Sinai Joyfully, Just Like a Child Who Runs Away From School!
30:32
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What if the secret to spiritual fulfillment lies in embracing our cravings? Join us as we unlock the profound wisdom of the Ramban on a fascinating Torah passage guided by the insights of Revolba and his student, Reb Reuven Leuchter. You'll learn the significance of the inverted nuns in Parshas Ba'aloscha and what they reveal about the Israelites' …
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Parshas Nasso: Extraordinary Choices, Extraordinary Lives
24:22
24:22
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Have you ever wondered how small, deliberate choices can elevate you to a state of holiness? This episode unravels the powerful lessons from the Torah about the Nazir, an individual who takes a voluntary vow of abstention. By stepping outside societal norms through personal initiative, the Nazir teaches us the profound significance of "Yavi Yosso"—…
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Can you imagine how the simple act of lifting your head can transform your spiritual journey? In this episode, we dissect profound lessons from Parshas Bamidbar and how the mindset encapsulated in the mantra "I can, I will, I must" prepares us for Shavuos. By exploring the term "Su'u" through the insights of Rashi and Ramban, we uncover the signifi…
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Parshas Bechukosai: "THE HUSTLERS MINDSET": No Excuses - Motivational Speech 🎤🎧⏱
33:20
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Why is the struggle to study the Torah so deeply embedded in Jewish tradition? Join us as we tackle this bold question and explore Parashat B'chukosai, where the Jewish people face a profound ultimatum: adhere to God's commandments for immense blessings or suffer dire consequences. The Tochecha, or admonitions, are read quietly due to their grave n…
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Parshas Behar: Retire Early and Take a Break
25:56
25:56
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Embark on a journey beyond the ordinary with our latest podcast episode, where we confront the risks of confining your voice to the crowded realm of self-help podcasts and the vitality of carving a distinctive niche. As we navigate the seas of advice littered with quick fixes, we turn to the enduring wisdom of the Torah. The pearls of insight in Sh…
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Parshas Emor: Kiddush Hashem and Tuna on a Bialy
26:06
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Every bite of tuna on a bagel whisks me back to the kitchen of my late softa, the esteemed Rebbetzin Zuckerman, whose culinary touch with this simple dish was nothing short of legendary. This episode isn't just about the perfect blend of flaky fish and creamy mayonnaise—it's an homage to the recipes that bind us to our loved ones and the traditions…
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Parshas Kedoshim: The Enticement of Modern Idolization: Football, Money, and Strangers
32:38
32:38
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Have you ever considered the power in your hands—the instruments that allow you to touch, feel, and shape the world? In this episode, we explore our Yadayim, these remarkable tools that command a presence in both the mundane and the sacred. We weave through the narrative of Parshas Kedoshim, from the Exodus and the receiving of the Torah to the law…
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Parshas Metzora: Light-Headedness and the Erosion of Morality
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How do frivolity and jest shape our spiritual landscape? In our latest podcast episode, we journey into the depths of spiritual impurity outlined in Parshas Metzora, focusing on the Bal Keri's barrier to Torah study. Discover the sacred nature of the Torah that mandates a purity reminiscent of Sinai itself, and learn why Rashi warns that levity lea…
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Embark on a transformative journey with us as we uncover Rambam's teachings on the profound impact of character traits on our lives. We'll delve into the wisdom of striking a perfect balance and how this pursuit shapes our emotions and behaviors. Yet, when it comes to arrogance, you'll learn why the Rambam insists on an absolute purge of this detri…
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Discover the spiritual depths and divine kindness embedded within the laws of kashrut on our latest podcast episode as we celebrate the Kohanim's initiation and reflect on the cautionary tale of Nadav and Avihu. We highlight the vital link between physical traits and spiritual purity, exploring how the signs of kosher animals are more than mere phy…
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Parshat Tzav's Gourmet Wisdom: Cooking Up a Divine Connection
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Discover the hidden chef within you as we traverse the spiritual kitchen, revealing how every spark of your soul mirrors the greatness of a tzaddik. Our latest culinary-inspired exploration marries the ancient wisdom of Parshat Tzav with the modern art of gastronomy, promising to enrich your understanding of both sacrificial rituals and daily spiri…
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Parshas Zachor (Rebroadcast): The Insidious Nature of Amalek
15:54
15:54
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Discover the moral quandaries and spiritual warfare at the heart of Parshas Zachor as we confront the chilling command to remember and obliterate Amalek's legacy. This episode wades into the troubled waters of a divine mandate that tests our ethical boundaries—eradicating the Amalekites, a people synonymous with pure evil. Through the narrative of …
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Parshas Vayikra's Lesson: Innovation and the Power of a Small Aleph
5:09
5:09
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Have you ever grappled with the challenge of staying humble amidst success? Rav Shach imparts a profound lesson in humility through an extraordinary examination of a single letter from the Torah, revealing the internal struggles of Moshe Rabbeinu and the ongoing battle against the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). This episode peels back the layers o…
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Parshas Pekudei: Please Come to the Office
25:53
25:53
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Unlock the mystery behind the wisdom of Bitzalel and his pivotal contribution to the Mishkan as we journey through the intricate tapestry of redemption woven throughout Sefer Shmos. Guided by the insights of Rabbi Moses Feinstein, we uncover the Torah's cryptic language and what it reveals about our roles in the divine narrative. This episode is no…
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Parshas Vayakhel: The Pursuit of Sincere Mitzvos Beyond Societal Approval
20:03
20:03
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Have you ever found yourself wrestling with the notion of sincerity versus the need for acceptance within your spiritual practices? Our latest conversation plunges into this sensitive arena, assessing the delicate balance between personal intention and the societal lens through which our religious observance is often viewed. We tackle the telltale …
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Parshas Ki Sisa: Lessons from the Golden Calf and Our Quest for Spiritual Growth
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Embark on a transformative exploration of remorse and redemption as we navigate the tumultuous moral landscape left in the wake of the golden calf. The moment Moses descended Sinai only to shatter the tablets in response to the Israelites' idolatry, a spiritual low point was etched into our collective history. Together with the esteemed insights of…
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SPECIAL EPISODE: The Shared Craft of Cigar Aficionados and Exceptional Educators
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5:18
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Discover the unexpected parallels between cigar aficionados' craftsmanship and exceptional educators' skills. We're igniting a discussion on the transformative power of teaching with insights that will challenge your understanding of education and parenting. Prepare to rethink success as we argue that our ultimate goal should be to make ourselves o…
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Parshas Tetzaveh: The Curious Case of the Missing Medrash
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Embark on a mysterious adventure as we chase the shadows of a long-lost Midrash, the Medrash of Reb Shimon Ben Pazi, which whispers secrets of ancient wisdom yet eludes capture. Guided by cryptic clues from Rabbi Yaakov Ibn Chabib's Ein Yaakov, we traverse the landscape of Torah scholarship, unraveling the debate over its most central verse. The wi…
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Parshas Terumah's Treasure: Unlocking the Mysteries of the Aron Kodesh and Igniting Youthful Zeal
25:01
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Uncover the secrets of the Aron Kodesh's mystical allure as we journey through this week's Parshah, Terumah. Prepare to be captivated by the dichotomy of the Keruvim, whose presence atop the Holy Ark sparks a conversation on the profound symbolism within the Mishkan's inner sanctum. We'll unravel the layers of Aron's construction, pondering why thi…
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Parshas Mishpatim: Wonderful Contradiction
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Are the intricate puzzles of Jewish law truly a source of joy? Journey with us through the rich tapestry of Halachic study as we uncover the hidden delights of 'stirrers'—the contradictions that challenge and invigorate the scholarly pursuit of Torah wisdom. In our latest episode, we immerse ourselves in the depths of Parashas Mishpatim with the ke…
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Parshas Yisro | Mountainside Distractions
18:39
18:39
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Discover the spiritual resonance of standing at Mount Sinai as we share an immersive experience of a day that shaped our very essence. Witness the narrative of the Israelites, guided by Moses, as they prepared to encounter the Divine. We unravel the power of focus and presentness in calling the faithful to an active presence in witnessing God's pow…
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Parshas Beshalach: Navigating Doubt and Decision with the Wisdom of the Chovos Halevavos
22:41
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Ever feel like there's an invisible adversary within, undermining your every step toward personal growth? Unlock the secrets to conquering this internal foe as we journey through the teachings of the Chovos Halevavos and the wisdom of the Israelites in Parashas Beshalach. Our exploration reveals the Yetzer Hara, or evil inclination, as an intimate …
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Parshas BO: How to Overcome Mental Challenges and Rewire Your Brain
36:26
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Embark on a spiritual odyssey with us as we uncover the transformative power of Jewish wisdom and the science of habit formation. Together, we delve into the teachings of revered Jewish thinkers such as the Rambam, the Vilna Gaon, and Rav Chaim Vital to understand the role of free will in personal growth. Discover the art of reshaping your characte…
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Parshas Bo: Embark on an enlightening quest to answer humanity's most profound inquiry: the meaning of life. As we sift through the ancient wisdom of King Solomon, we unlock the simplicity in his conclusion that life's purpose is to fear God and keep His commandments. This episode is not just a philosophical discourse but a practical guide, showcas…
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Parshas Va'era: Commercial Breaks and Erroneous Deification
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Have you ever wondered why a great story can stop us in our tracks? Our latest podcast episode unravels the magic of storytelling and its profound impact on human connection, particularly when it resonates from the bimah on Shabbos. Join us as we reveal how the simple choice to begin with a personal narrative or an enthralling tale can transform th…
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Parshas Shemos: A Journey to a Magical World
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Could your understanding of the physical laws that govern our world unlock the secrets of the spiritual realm? We're taking a deep dive into the Olom HaRuchni, where the rules are as unwavering as the law of gravity, to show you how these two worlds intertwine. Our episode peels back the layers of spiritual transactions and the acquisition of Torah…
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Parshas Vayechi: Embracing Uniqueness & Individuality in Torah Life
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Discover the unexpected synergy between individuality and collective tradition in Judaism. This episode takes you on a journey through the personal blessings of Yaakov's sons, as seen through the lens of the Or Hachaim HaKadosh, revealing the Torah's acknowledgment of distinct talents. Uncover how embracing our unique spiritual qualities can enrich…
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Discover the profound emotional landscape of forgiveness and responsibility as we navigate the story of Yosef and Yehuda. Amid the palpable silence of their reunion, we unpack the intense moment when Yehuda unknowingly pleads for Binyamin's safety in front of his brother. Our narrative dissects the storm of feelings that flood the scene once Yosef …
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Ready for an enlightening journey that questions why Yosef, in the Torah, left his father Yaakov mourning without reassurance about his safety? We promise to take you on a thought-provoking exploration of this complex issue as we compare it to personal experiences like preparing for camp or the significance of writing letters home. We ponder variou…
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Parshas Vayeishev: The Epic Tale of Yosef - Dreaming Big, Mastering Self-Control, and Unprecedented Success
20:28
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Dreaming big and fearlessly pursuing those dreams can lead to unimaginable success. Just ask Yosef from the Torah, whose life we celebrate as a shining beacon of ambition, risk-taking, and self-control. His fascinating journey, from his rise in the Egyptian corporate world to his skills in interpreting dreams and divine inspiration, is filled with …
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Parshas Vayeishev: Unraveling Biblical Mysteries from Manhattan Slums to Divine Rewards (Rebroadcast)
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What if the most profound narratives of the biblical text held the keys to our modern struggles? Imagine uncovering the nuances of Yosef's trials as he faces family betrayal, battles temptation, and finds strength in the most unexpected places. We journey with Yosef from the slums of Manhattan to his eventual triumph, exploring the subtle meanings …
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Parshas Vayishlach: Sciatic Struggles & The Dark Knight
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Brace yourself for an enthralling journey through the parsha of Vayishlach, where we dissect the legendary face-off between Jacob and Esau. Guided by the profound wisdom of the Vilna Gaon and Rebbe Chaim, we navigate the narrative landscape, drawing parallels between this ancient struggle and the plight of Jews in the modern diaspora. We’ll ponder …
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Parshas Vayeitzei: A Study of Resolute Decision Making
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What happens when a profound decision alters the course of history? Enter the realm of insightful Jewish narratives and join us as we dissect the profound effect of Jacob's decision to return to Har Hamoriah for prayer. The story of Rachel Emeinu naming her son Naftali, epitomizing struggle and growth, is woven into this tapestry of wisdom. Our kno…
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Parshas Vayeitzei: HARD WORK PAYS OFF (Naftali Series)
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Have you ever thought about the power of stubbornness and how it can be used positively? Whether seeking spiritual clarity or striving to make positive changes in your life, this episode unravels the profound implications of being obstinate. We share the inspiring tale of Rachel, whose relentless pursuit of motherhood, despite her challenges, led t…
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Parshas Toldos: Torah Study, Labor Pains, and AI
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Have you ever wondered why unborn children wish to leave the comfort of the womb to study the Torah in holy places, as opposed to learning from the angel within? This episode promises to quench your curiosity as we grapple with this complex question posed by Reb Yosef Dov Soloveitchik. We explore the story of the biblical twins Jacob and Esau and t…
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Parshas Chayei Sarah: Botulinum Toxins and Pestilential Sins
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Why did Avraham Avinu, who deeply trusted his servant Eliezer with everything, make him swear an oath when finding a shidduch for Yitzchak? We're unraveling this intriguing narrative, discussing the peculiarities around the honorifics and the customs of the Tzadikim. We're presenting an in-depth exploration that will illuminate Avraham's motivation…
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Parshas Chayei Sarah: Interview with Rabbi Shafier and His Marital Advice (Rebroadcast)
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Learn about yourself and the development of a happy and successful marriage. Do you know the 10 Really Dumb Mistakes that Very Smart Couples Make? Are you ready to strengthen the foundation of your marriage? Join us on a journey through the sage advice of Rabbi Shafier, the creator of The Shmuz platform, famed Rebbe, bestselling author, and marriag…
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Parshas Vayeira: Part Angel Part Scorpion
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Fear can be a powerful motivator, and it's a critical factor in our exploration of Avraham’s life. Join us as we dive into this narrative where Avraham, faced with a life-or-death situation in a land devoid of the fear of Hashem, turns to deception as a survival tactic. We ponder on his choice to introduce Sarah as his sister, not his wife, and dis…
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Have you ever been torn between maintaining focus during prayer and the urge to help a passer-by seeking charity? Picture this: you've finally found your rhythm in prayer, your focus is sharp, and then, a tap on your shoulder. A person stands, asking for aid. Do you interrupt your communion with the divine or brush off this plea for help? Using thi…
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What if there was a simple question you could ask yourself that would steer you back onto the right path? Imagine being able to clear your mind and focus on the virtues that made our forefathers so admirable in the eyes of God. This episode follows our previous Torah giants' reasoning, thought process, and why you should dream big. Support the Show…
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Parshas Noach: Parallelizing a Zookeeper's Life and Torah Greatness
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Have we ever wondered about the parallels between a zookeeper's life and the biblical tale of Noach? We're here to quench your thirst for knowledge, delving into a captivating connection between these two seemingly different worlds. We dissect the demanding roles of a zookeeper, which echo Noach's daunting task of safeguarding the animals in Ark. W…
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