Rabbi Louis Sachs explores the tension between decorum and belonging in our synagogues. Drawing on halachic sources, personal anecdotes, and a striking Midrash about Rabbi Meir, he challenges us to consider: are our expectations of reverence in the sanctuary pushing people away from the very place they most need to feel at home? From coffee cups to crying children, this sermon reflects on how cultural norms evolve—and why preserving shalom bayit sometimes means letting go of our own assumptions about what “respect” looks like.

Delivered on Shabbat morning, June 7, 2025, at Beth Sholom Synagogue in Toronto.

Torah Outside the Box is a podcast from Rabbi Louis Sachs of Beth Sholom Synagogue in Toronto, sharing sermons and teachings that bring Torah beyond the synagogue and into everyday life. With clarity and care, Rabbi Sachs explores how ancient Jewish wisdom speaks to the challenges and questions of the modern world. Each episode offers thoughtful, relevant, and tradition-rooted insights that invite listeners to reflect, feel, and live with greater intention. Honest and relatable, these teachings offer a spiritual lens through which to view our lives — because Torah belongs not just in the synagogue, but everywhere.

Rabbi Louis Sachs explores how this year's Passover and Yizkor feel heartbreakingly different in light of ongoing hostage crises and loss. Drawing on writings from the families of hostages and the newly created "Hostage Families Haggadah," the sermon challenges listeners to carry memory forward with purpose—not just to remember, but to transform grief into action and legacy.

Delivered on Shabbat morning, April 20, 2025.

Torah Outside the Box is a podcast where Rabbi Louis Sachs shares sermons, stories, and reflections that bring Torah beyond the walls of the synagogue. Thoughtful, heartfelt, and occasionally a little provocative, each episode explores how Jewish wisdom speaks to modern life — because Torah belongs not just in the synagogue, but in our lives.

Rabbi Louis Sachs explores how tradition, especially around Passover, can become a burden when we focus more on rules than meaning. Drawing on the image of guarded matzah and a Hasidic tale of a humble Seder, the sermon challenges listeners to reclaim presence, curiosity, and intention in their rituals.

Delivered on Shabbat morning, April 19, 2025.

Torah Outside the Box is a podcast where Rabbi Louis Sachs shares sermons, stories, and reflections that bring Torah beyond the walls of the synagogue.
Thoughtful, heartfelt, and occasionally a little provocative, each episode explores how Jewish wisdom speaks to modern life — because Torah belongs not just in the synagogue, but in our lives.

Rabbi Louis Sachs explores the sacred responsibility we carry toward the generations that came before us. Drawing on the Torah’s call to remember “Arami Oved Avi” and personal family history, the sermon challenges listeners to recognize the blessings in their lives and reflect on the legacy they’ve inherited.

Delivered on Shabbat morning, April 14, 2025.

Torah Outside the Box is a podcast where Rabbi Louis Sachs shares sermons, stories, and reflections that bring Torah beyond the walls of the synagogue. Thoughtful, heartfelt, and occasionally a little provocative, each episode explores how Jewish wisdom speaks to modern life — because Torah belongs not just in the synagogue, but in our lives.