Way 35: Criticism Is a Gift – How to Receive and Give It Properly

Way 35: Criticism Is a Gift – How to Receive and Give It Properly

From Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe by TORCH

May 7, 2026 · 11 min · Episode 135

About this episode

Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discusses the importance of loving criticism as a tool for personal and spiritual growth.

In episode thirty-five of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Ohev Et HaTochachot — “love criticism” or loving rebuke. A wise person welcomes criticism because it provides a perspective they are blind to, helping them perfect themselves and avoid pitfalls. Criticism, when done with love and properly, is one of the greatest gifts one can receive — even if the delivery is imperfect, focus on the merit of the message. Rabbi Wolbe stresses the Torah obligation from Leviticus 19:17: do not hate your fellow in your heart, but rebuke them constructively so you do not bear sin on their account. Criticize the action, not the person (especially important with children). Be grateful to those who care enough to point out flaws, as it can save lives and elevate character. For the critic, the goal must be improvement, not shaming. Love of criticism is a hallmark of wisdom and a key tool for maximizing personal growth and spiritual success. _____________ Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on June 10, 2022, in Houston, Texas. Released as Podcast on February 7, 2023 The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time…

People in this episode

Host: Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

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Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Ohev Et HaTochachot, Mishna, Avot, Leviticus

Places: Houston, Texas

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