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  • Sukkos 3 - The Power and Impact of Shaking the Lulav

    Sukkos 3 - The Power and Impact of Shaking the Lulav
    2025/10/06

    Ever wondered about the profound symbolism and teachings of the mitzvah of shaking the four species on Sukkot? Brace for a deep dive into the intricacies of this mitzvah, as we unpack the teachings of our sages and the deep meaning behind this great Mitzvah. Get ready to understand the essence and the true meaning of pushing the Lulav back into whom all four directions belong.

    Drawing from the wisdom of the great Kabbalist, The Arizal, we unravel the profound connection between knowledge and action during Sukkot. We explore how the festivity, revered as the pinnacle of wisdom, bridges the gap between what we know and how we act. By shaking the four species, we begin to internalize this wisdom and connect it to our hearts, making our knowledge of Hashem tangible and deeply felt.

    The significance of action in observing Sukkot cannot be overstated. As we dive into how the physical demonstration of commitment forges a tangible connection to Hashem. We discuss how shaking the four species can help us internalize the belief that the world is under Hashem's control. Most importantly, we discover how we can potentially change the decrees of Rosh Hashanah until Hashanah Rabah, the last day of Sukkot. So join us, as we journey from understanding to action, connecting our minds, hearts, and bodies with Hashem's omnipresence.

    This episode (#240) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Marc Schneider!


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    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 September 26, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on September 27, 2023

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    47 分
  • From Yom Kippur to Sukkot: A Journey of Renewal

    From Yom Kippur to Sukkot: A Journey of Renewal
    2025/10/05
    In this episode of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe reflects on the spiritual intensity of Yom Kippur and its seamless connection to Sukkot, emphasizing themes of forgiveness, selflessness, and renewal. He highlights how these holidays inspire a fresh start through acts of unity and service to Hashem. Key points include:Yom Kippur’s Holiness: Yom Kippur, known as Yom HaKadosh (the Holy Day), is a time when Hashem desires closeness with us through teshuvah (repentance). The Al Chet prayer combines sins done “be’ones” (by mistake) and “beratzon” (with desire), teaching that even intentional sins stem from momentary weakness due to the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination). The Tefillah Zaka prayer, recited before Kol Nidre, acknowledges this struggle, asking forgiveness for succumbing to temptations despite our deeper desire to align with Hashem’s will.Divine Forgiveness: Citing Numbers 14:20 (“Vayomer Hashem salachti kidvarecha” – “I forgive you as you have requested”), Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that sincere requests for forgiveness are immediately granted by Hashem, unlike human forgiveness with preconditions. This assurance fosters joy, as seen in sages dancing post-Yom Kippur, feeling unburdened of sins.Sukkot’s Role: Sukkot, beginning September 25, 2025, is not a “forgotten holiday” but a vital demonstration of Yom Kippur’s renewal. Leaving one’s home for the sukkah symbolizes breaking old habits and starting anew, embracing discomfort (e.g., Houston’s heat or rain) to avoid complacency. The four species (lulav, etrog, hadas, arava) represent unity among diverse Jews, while the 70 offerings for the nations reflect the Jewish mission to model ethics and morality globally.Selflessness on Yom Kippur: Rabbi Wolbe shares a personal story of responding to a Hatzalah call at 1 AM on Yom Kippur, driving a patient to the hospital while his daughter babysat the patient’s children until 9:30 AM with minimal sleep. This act, inspired by his grandfather’s teaching in the Mir Yeshiva to visit the sick during Musaf, exemplifies Yom Kippur’s mitzvah of selflessness over selfishness, reinforcing the holiday’s essence.Livelihood and Service: Yom Kippur prayers frequently mention livelihood, as financial worry hinders serving Hashem fully. A secure livelihood frees one to focus on spiritual growth, aligning with Sukkot’s call to trust in Hashem while living simply in the sukkah.The episode concludes with a blessing for a meaningful Sukkot, a year of health, happiness, and secure livelihood, urging listeners to carry Yom Kippur’s selflessness into daily life.Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on October 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 5, 2025_____________Listen, Subscribe & Share: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1476610783Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4r0KfjMzmCNQbiNaZBCSU7) to stay inspired! Share your questions at aw@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, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.Your support makes a HUGE difference!_____________Listen MoreOther podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesEveryday Judaism 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:#YomKippur, #Sukkot, #Sins, #Forgiveness, #Joy, #Renewal, #Selflessness, #Mitzvahs, #Kindness, #Blessings, #SuccessfulYear ★ Support this podcast ★
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    18 分
  • Sukkos 2 - Exploring the Joy of Sukkot and the Power of Repentance: A TORCH Roundtable

    Sukkos 2 - Exploring the Joy of Sukkot and the Power of Repentance: A TORCH Roundtable
    2025/10/05

    Ever wondered about the deeper significance of celebrating Sukkot and its unique connection to Yom Kippur? Ever pondered on the joy and gratitude deeply embedded in Jewish holidays and how to create healthier patterns in our lives through them? If so, this episode is your soul food. Join us under the Sukkah with Rabbi Yakov Nagel, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko, and Dan Kullman, all hosts of enriching Jewish podcasts, as we embark on an enlightening journey discussing our personal experiences with TORCH, our stories of faith, and the challenges of being normalized in a religious context.

    In this gathering, we not only delve into the intricacies of Sukkot but also touch upon the transformative power of repentance and the spiritual elevation it offers. Unravel the layers of repentance, and grasp the power of creating an illusion that can be tested by God to reveal our true source of sustenance.

    Engage in a conversation about Sukkot as a recharging station for our spiritual power, helping us to refocus and re-center ourselves. Explore the three layers of the soul and their correspondence to the festivals. Listen to this episode and ignite your curiosity to learn more about our faith, traditions, and beliefs. Ultimately, we hope this episode will encourage you to delve deeper into your own spiritual journey and understanding of Jewish festivals and traditions.

    This episode (#124) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Peter & Becky Botvin! May Hashem continue to bless you with great health and success in all your endeavors.


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    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 a Private Sukkah on October 12, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on October 13, 2023

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    1 時間 7 分
  • Sukkos 1 - From Forgiveness to Thanksgiving: The Profound Joy of Sukkot

    Sukkos 1 - From Forgiveness to Thanksgiving: The Profound Joy of Sukkot
    2025/10/03

    Get ready for a transformative journey as we unlock the profound significance of Yom Kippur and the power it holds for renewal and a clean slate. We'll take you back in time to the historical origin of Yom Kippur, recounting the journey of Moshe to Har Sinai and his return 40 days later. Together, we'll grasp the essence of forgiveness, through the lens of the 13 Attributes of Mercy that Hashem taught Moshe, a gift that continues to guide us even today. If you've ever felt like you missed the opportunity for transformation during Yom Kippur, fret not! We discuss how the gates of change remain open until the end of Yom Hadin, The Day of Judgement.

    As we pivot from Yom Kippur to Sukkot, we contemplate the cyclic dance of good and challenging experiences that life offers. In this fast-paced world, dominated by technology, we underscore the power of gratitude in finding happiness. If you struggle to maintain a daily gratitude practice, you'll appreciate the words of King David that inspire us to express our thanks a hundred times each day. As we approach Sukkot, a time of joy and celebration, we delve into the importance of Sukkah's and the role it plays in physically manifesting our gratitude. Come along on this intimate exploration of Jewish traditions, and discover a path to personal growth and happiness.


    This episode (#123) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Lenny & Teresa Friedman!


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    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 at TGA - Torah Girls Academy to a live audience on October 6, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on October 6, 2022

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    25 分
  • Yom Kippur 3 - Small Changes Before Yom Kippur

    Yom Kippur 3 - Small Changes Before Yom Kippur
    2025/09/28

    Reflecting on a recent journey from Jerusalem to Ramat Gan, a divine encounter with a shopkeeper not only demonstrated the power of prayer, but also reminds us that the Almighty is always listening. This heartwarming tale forms the foundation of today's conversation, reaffirming the belief that no prayer goes unnoticed.

    As the Jewish High Holidays of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur loom, we contemplate the power of repentance and God's divine love. We discuss a beautiful analogy, comparing God's forgiveness to a father welcoming home his prodigal son. Like a loving parent, God waits with open arms, ready to embrace us as we turn back to Him, illustrating His readiness to forgive if we sincerely repent.

    Lastly, we move into an enlightening exploration of Teshuvah and the transformative power of prayer. We share how, regardless of our past missteps, these elements offer us redemption and a fresh perspective on life. This is a potent reminder that no matter how far we feel we have strayed, the Almighty is always waiting for us to return. Join us on this spiritual journey as we navigate the power of prayer, repentance, and Teshuvah.


    This episode (#52) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of Juan Juan & Susan Bracho!


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    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 October 2020, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on September 15, 2021
    Re-broadcast on September 8, 2023

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    27 分
  • Yom Kippur 2 - Understanding Yom Kippur and the Art of Forgiveness

    Yom Kippur 2 - Understanding Yom Kippur and the Art of Forgiveness
    2025/09/26

    Get ready to unravel the deep-seated holiness of Yom Kippur and the incredible power of forgiveness. We take a spiritual excursion to comprehend the essence of this auspicious day, the unique sacredness it harbors, and the steps to transform our lives through the act of repentance. We delve into the mysteries of Yom Kippur, exploring why it is often referred to as 'the day,' the historical context linked to the Golden Calf, and the profound symbolism of the number 40, signifying rebirth and transformation.

    As we saunter through the sacred path, we'll shed light on the five prohibitions (afflictions) of Yom Kippur, connecting them to the five levels of the soul. Picture the craftsmanship of a glassblower, and you'll see the profound relationship between these prohibitions and the soul. We will explore the astonishing potential of Yom Kippur as a day of repentance, where you can reinvent and purify your being. Prepare to embark on a spiritual voyage that could change your fate, seize the day that can alter it all.

    In the concluding segment, we turn our attention to the compelling power of repentance and forgiveness. Through age-old tales from Jewish tradition, we examine the possibility of divine forgiveness and the path towards atonement. You'll learn about the steps to forgiveness, the importance of sincerity, and the miracles that forgiveness can bring about. We will delve into the concept of repentance, or Teshuva, understanding its overwhelming power that surpasses the highest of heavens. Let's journey together, explore the mysteries, and prepare for the spiritually invigorating experience of Yom Kippur.

    This episode (#122) of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe is dedicated in Honor of David & Susan Marbin!


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    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 October 3, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on October 4, 2022
    Re-Released on September 15, 2023

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    1 時間 31 分
  • Yom Kippur 1 - Overcoming Barriers to Spiritual Growth: The Transformative Power of Repentance

    Yom Kippur 1 - Overcoming Barriers to Spiritual Growth: The Transformative Power of Repentance
    2025/09/25

    Discover the transformative power of Teshuvah, or repentance, as we embark on a profound spiritual journey. Join us as we uncover why repentance is revered as one of the most potent forces in Judaism, even surpassing the Torah and Shabbos. Through the mystical ascent of Moshe and the teachings of Rebbe Levi, learn how Teshuvah reaches the throne of honor in the heavens, emphasizing the importance of spiritual reflection, especially during the poignant 10 days of repentance.

    Embrace the urgency of repentance and maintain a divine connection with God, as we discuss the foundational concepts set before creation, including the Torah, the Garden of Eden, and Gehinnom. By drawing parallels to the legendary tale of Sodom and Gomorrah, we highlight the timeless necessity of living a life filled with holiness and devotion. The episode also delves into the profound impact of recent tragic events around Gaza, reminding us of the critical need to align our lives with divine values and seek forgiveness before it's too late.

    Overcoming personal hurdles like laziness can pave the way for spiritual and personal growth, and we explore strategies to combat this pervasive trait. With insights from the Mishnah and illustrative parables, learn how to seize opportunities for repentance and change before the unpredictable nature of life takes hold. We discuss the lessons from Bernie Madoff's infamous fraud to illustrate the escalation of minor dishonest actions and stress the importance of early repentance for true spiritual cleanliness. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer for protection and clarity, we wish our listeners a meaningful Yom Kippur, filled with love, kindness, and a future without the need for repentance.
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    Recorded in The Torchwood Center - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on October 8, 2024.
    Released as Podcast on October 10, 2024.
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    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!
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    SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
    NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
    Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
    Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
    Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
    Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
    Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
    Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes
    For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com
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    EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
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    Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!

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    50 分
  • Elul 30 - Personal Spirituality in the Digital Age (Rosh Hashanah 16b)

    Elul 30 - Personal Spirituality in the Digital Age (Rosh Hashanah 16b)
    2025/09/22

    Can our relationship with God be measured solely by our attendance at the synagogue? Or is it the daily nurturing of that bond that truly matters? This episode seeks to answer these questions and more, as we ponder the profound connection between us and the divine. Highlighting my grandfather's spiritual journey in Sweden, we explore how even without a congregation, a meaningful relationship with God can still be fostered. We also delve into the role of social media in creating a false sense of validation and how it impacts our understanding of our connection with the divine.

    We all know that blessings are abundant - health, eyesight, clothing, and more. But how often do we pause to truly appreciate them? In this episode, we look at how Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah offer us an opportunity to express gratitude and reinforce our relationship with God. We challenge the common misconception that success is solely defined by wealth, arguing that true success is rooted in our relationships with others.

    Finally, we take a closer look at righteousness and wickedness, exploring how these concepts impact our relationship with God. Our choices and actions, especially those made on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, play a significant role in this relationship. As we approach Yom Kippur, we reflect on the importance of creating a sacred space that allows us to feel closer to God. This episode is a journey of spiritual exploration and we wish you all a meaningful and spiritually uplifting Yom Kippur. Tune in and join us in this exploration of faith, connection, and spirituality.

    *****

    The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud.

    This episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast (Ep. 33) is dedicated in honor of our friend, Aaron & Adina Rosenzweig!

    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 September 15, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
    Released as Podcast on September 21, 2023

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    41 分