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71K to 223K🎙 Daily cadence·37 episodes·Last published today - Monthly Reach
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95K to 297K
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Recent episodes
The Millenium Red Heifer | June 25, 2026
Jun 25, 2026
23m 06s
Commuanl Needs vs. Torah Study | June 24, 2026
Jun 24, 2026
18m 28s
Witnesses From Within | June 23, 2026
Jun 23, 2026
24m 50s
The Fully Red, Red Heifer | June 22, 2026
Jun 22, 2026
14m 16s
Faith in God's Justice | June 21, 2026
Jun 21, 2026
22m 24s
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/25/26 | ![]() The Millenium Red Heifer | June 25, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Chukat, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about God’s patience and the power of repentance.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein concludes the discussion of the red heifer by examining a Mishnah that records only nine red heifers throughout Jewish history, from Moshe through the late Second Temple period. He highlights how rare this mitzvah was and notes that the ashes often lasted for generations, symbolizing continuity, renewal, and the enduring influence of great spiritual leaders. The tradition that the tenth red heifer will be prepared by the Messiah underscores its unique significance.In the Rambam section, he discusses when one may interrupt activities to recite the Shema. He also explains the laws of reciting Shema while immersed in water, emphasizing proper coverage and the importance of reciting it at the appropriate time.In the Menorat HaMaor section, Rabbi Rubenstein explores why God delays punishment for wrongdoers. The teaching emphasizes that God’s patience reflects a desire for people to repent, encouraging us to extend similar compassion and hope for growth in others.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 23m 06s | ||||||
| 6/24/26 | ![]() Commuanl Needs vs. Torah Study | June 24, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Chukat, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about trusting in God’s ultimate justice.The Parashah section continues examining the red heifer ritual, focusing on how a person purified from corpse impurity was sprinkled with water mixed with the heifer’s ashes on the third and seventh days. Rabbi Rubenstein highlights the mysterious nature of the mitzvah, noting that even a small amount of the water could restore purity, while those involved in preparing the ashes became impure and required a different purification process.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses when Torah study and communal responsibilities interact with the obligation to recite the Shema. While Torah study must be interrupted for Shema, involvement in essential communal needs may take precedence.The Menorat HaMaor section teaches that God rewards even the smallest good deeds of the wicked in this world, while reserving the reward of the righteous for the world to come. The lesson emphasizes faith that divine justice ultimately prevails, even when it is not immediately visible.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 28s | ||||||
| 6/23/26 | ![]() Witnesses From Within | June 23, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Chukat, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about personal accountability and divine judgment.The Parashah section continues examining the red heifer ritual, focusing on how it was prepared and used. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that the rite was overseen by the deputy High Priest rather than the High Priest himself, and that cedar wood, hyssop, and crimson wool were burned together with the heifer. The ashes were divided for different purposes, emphasizing both the practical and communal dimensions of ritual purity.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses workers reciting the Shema. Laborers must pause their work for the first paragraph of the Shema because it requires focused intention and acceptance of God’s sovereignty, while the remainder may be recited without interrupting work.The Menorat HaMaor teaches that no action goes unnoticed. Whether through one’s soul, angels, surroundings, or even one’s own body, every person is ultimately accountable, reminding us to live responsibly and with moral awareness.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 24m 50s | ||||||
| 6/22/26 | ![]() The Fully Red, Red Heifer | June 22, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Chukat, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about divine justice and reward.The Parashah section focuses on the laws of the red heifer. Rabbi Rubenstein explains the extraordinary requirements for a valid red heifer: it had to be completely red, free of blemishes, and never used for labor. The rarity and difficulty of obtaining such an animal highlight the mysterious nature of this mitzvah and deepen appreciation for its unique role in ritual purification.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the proper recitation of the Shema. A person may recite it in most positions, but not while lying flat on the back or face down, since the Shema requires dignity and focused intention, especially during its opening verse.The Menorat HaMaor teaches that God’s justice may not always be apparent in this world. The righteous and wicked each receive rewards and punishments in different ways, but ultimately every person will recognize the fairness of God’s judgment and understand the true balance of justice.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 14m 16s | ||||||
| 6/21/26 | ![]() Faith in God's Justice | June 21, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Chukat, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about confronting wickedness while trusting in divine justice.The Me’am Loez section focuses on the mitzvah of the Red Heifer, a classic example of a chok, a commandment whose reasoning is not fully understood. Through a story about Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai, the episode highlights the difference between offering rational explanations to outsiders and the Jewish obligation to observe mitzvot with faith, even when their deeper purpose remains hidden.The Rambam section discusses the requirement of kavana when reciting Kriyat Shema. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that the first verse requires conscious acceptance of God’s sovereignty and attention to its meaning in order to fulfill the mitzvah.The Menorat HaMaor section concludes a discussion about opposing evildoers and avoiding envy of their apparent success. The teaching emphasizes faith that God ultimately brings justice, enabling a person to pursue righteousness without being consumed by anger or resentment.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 22m 24s | ||||||
| 6/19/26 | ![]() Contending With Evildoers | June 19, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Korach, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about positive zeal and the responsibility to pursue justice.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein examines Moshe’s unusual response to Korach’s rebellion. Unlike previous episodes of communal sin, Moshe does not immediately plead for forgiveness on behalf of the people. Drawing on a traditional parable, he explains that Moshe’s restraint reflects humility and recognition that, after repeated failures, a leader must sometimes step back and allow a different approach to emerge.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the timing of the morning Shema. While the ideal time is around sunrise, one may recite it as early as dawn in special circumstances, and the mitzvah must be fulfilled within the first three hours of the day.In the Menorat HaMaor section, he explores teachings about confronting wrongdoing rather than ignoring it. The discussion emphasizes that pursuing justice and defending Torah values can require engaging difficult situations, while also demanding wisdom and careful judgment. | 20m 13s | ||||||
| 6/18/26 | ![]() Evil but Rational | June 18, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Korach, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the pursuit of justice and responsible zeal.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein examines why Korach’s rebellion was so persuasive. Korach argued that all Israelites were holy and therefore no one should hold elevated leadership positions. While these claims sounded fair and appealing, the lesson is that authentic Jewish leadership and practice must remain grounded in divine revelation and tradition rather than personal preference or the desire to remake the system according to contemporary ideals.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the proper time for reciting the morning Shema. Ideally, it should be timed around sunrise, but the mitzvah may still be fulfilled until the end of the third hour of the day.In the Menorat HaMaor section, he recounts the story of Rabbi Sheila, who risked punishment from Roman authorities while carrying out justice. The story highlights the importance of courageously upholding justice and social order, even in difficult circumstances.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 55s | ||||||
| 6/17/26 | ![]() Waiting for the Stars | June 17, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Korach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the proper use of zeal and the responsibility to prevent injustice.The Me’am Loez examines Korach’s challenge regarding the tallit entirely made of techelet and explains that his true failure was using persuasive arguments to lead others away from Torah values. Tzitzit serves as the opposite force—a constant physical reminder to remain connected to mitzvot and resist distractions that pull a person away from their values.The Rambam discusses the proper time for reciting the evening Shema, teaching that the mitzvah begins only after nightfall and ideally should be completed before midnight. A Shema recited before the appearance of the stars does not fulfill the Torah obligation and should be repeated later.The Menorat HaMaor contrasts righteous zeal with dangerous misuse of authority through stories of rabbis serving Roman officials. It teaches that pursuing justice requires humility and that one must refuse to participate in actions that lead to injustice against innocent people.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 33s | ||||||
| 6/16/26 | ![]() Gone Too Far? | June 16, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Korach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the dangers and responsibilities of pursuing justice.The Me’am Loez examines Korach’s negative interpretation of mitzvot, seeing acts meant for holiness and service as selfish or humiliating. Rabbi Rubenstein teaches that understanding the intention and meaning behind the commandments prevents resentment and fosters a deeper relationship with Torah and God.The Rambam discusses the order and wording of the blessings surrounding Shema, explaining that the proper concluding formula determines whether a mistaken blessing fulfills its obligation. He emphasizes the importance of preserving the established liturgy while distinguishing between ideal practice and accidental error.The Menorat HaMaor continues the story of Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Shimon, whose authority to punish criminals leads to a tragic misuse of power and a lesson in humility. The story teaches that pursuing justice requires great caution, self-awareness, and restraint.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 46s | ||||||
| 6/15/26 | ![]() Jewish Policing? | June 15, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Korach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about good jealousy, justice, and the challenges of human judgment.The Me’am Loez explains that Korach viewed mitzvot and religious obligations through a lens of resentment, interpreting acts of holiness as forms of humiliation or self-interest. Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that understanding the intentions behind mitzvot is essential so that Torah practice becomes a source of connection rather than bitterness.The Rambam teaches that the blessings surrounding the Shema must follow the exact forms established by Ezra and his court. One may not add to, remove from, or alter the established language of the blessings.The Menorat HaMaor recounts Rabbi Elazar ben Rabbi Shimon’s involvement with Roman authorities in identifying thieves and the debate over whether human beings should administer justice or leave certain matters to God.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 16m 57s | ||||||
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| 6/14/26 | ![]() Good Jealousy? | June 14, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Korach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about jealousy, moral courage, and defending sacred values.The Me’am Loez examines the origins of Korach’s rebellion through a Midrash about Korach and his wife. After learning the mitzvah of tzitzit, Korach is persuaded to view the Torah’s commandments as illogical and Moses as self-interested. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that Korach’s mistake was allowing doubt about a commandment he did not understand to undermine his faith in the Torah and its divine source.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the blessings recited before and after the Shema. He explains how these blessings emphasize God’s roles in creation, revelation through Torah, and redemption.The Menorat HaMaor distinguishes between destructive jealousy and a positive zeal for holiness. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that Jews should have the courage to challenge public wrongdoing and uphold Torah values, while acting with wisdom, restraint, and a commitment to peace.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 48s | ||||||
| 6/12/26 | ![]() Riding With Eliyahu | June 12, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about faith, leadership, and the proper focus of human effort.Drawing on the Me’am Loez, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses a Talmudic story about the prophet Elijah and Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi. Through a series of seemingly puzzling actions, Elijah teaches that people cannot always understand God’s purposes based on appearances alone. The lesson connects to the spies in Parashat Shlach, emphasizing the need for faith and highlighting how competing leaders can undermine effective governance.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein explains the custom of reciting “Baruch Shem” quietly after the first verse of the Shema. He traces the practice to Jacob’s final conversation with his sons, who affirmed their faith in God’s unity.The Menorat HaMaor teaches that human beings are destined to labor, but the real question is what they choose to work toward. Rather than envying wealth, status, or luxury, a person should devote effort to Torah, mitzvot, and spiritual growth, valuing lasting achievements over temporary worldly success.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 53s | ||||||
| 6/12/26 | ![]() Mentch, Night, Vanity | June 11, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the emptiness of material wealth compared to eternal spiritual values.Drawing on the Me’am Loez, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the selection of the spies sent to scout the Land of Israel. The Torah’s description of them as “men” indicates that they were initially people of integrity and moral standing. Their failure demonstrates the danger of relying solely on human perception and judgment while neglecting trust in God’s promises and wisdom.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein continues the laws of Kriyat Shema, explaining why the third paragraph is recited at night. Although its mitzvah of tzitzit applies only during the day, the paragraph also fulfills the obligation to remember the Exodus from Egypt both day and night.In Menorat HaMaor, Rabbi Rubenstein examines King Solomon’s reflections in Ecclesiastes. Despite possessing wisdom, power, and wealth, Solomon concluded that worldly pursuits are ultimately fleeting, while devotion to God and good deeds provide lasting meaning.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 15m 08s | ||||||
| 6/10/26 | ![]() Trust, Sh'ma, Problems | June 10, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Kriyat Shema from the Rambam, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about contentment and the proper measure of success.Rabbi Rubenstein examines the story of the spies through the lens of the Me’am Loez. He explains that even when leaders adopt ideas proposed by others, they must take full responsibility for the outcome. The discussion also highlights an allegory comparing the Land of Israel to a bride chosen by a king, teaching that trusting God’s judgment is often wiser than relying solely on human observation and limited perspective.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein begins the laws of Kriyat Shema, explaining the obligation to recite the Shema morning and evening. He also outlines the three biblical sections of the Shema and the foundational beliefs and commandments they emphasize.In Menorat HaMaor, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses sages who lived with little wealth yet remained satisfied with their lot. Their example teaches that spiritual character and one’s standing before God matter far more than material possessions, which can bring worry and ultimately cannot accompany a person beyond this life.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 21m 30s | ||||||
| 6/9/26 | ![]() Patient Teachers & Honest Students | June 9, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about sustenance, patience, and trust in God’s long-term provision.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein examines why God told Moshe “send for yourself” regarding the spies. Although the spies claimed they wanted to scout the land for practical reasons, God revealed that their true motivation was a lack of faith in His promise. The lesson is that intentions matter, and understandable fears should not override trust in God.In the Rambam section, he discusses how teachers and students should approach Torah learning. Teachers must patiently repeat material without anger, while students must honestly admit when they do not understand and continue asking questions.In the Menorat HaMaor section, Rabbi Rubenstein recounts a Talmudic story about a widower miraculously able to nurse his infant son. The sages use the story to teach that earning sustenance can be difficult, but God often provides in ways that promote long-term stability rather than temporary relief.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 09s | ||||||
| 6/8/26 | ![]() The Leaves of Gan Eden | June 8, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about faith, material needs, and eternal values.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein examines why the spies wanted to scout the Land of Israel and why Moshe agreed to their request. A Midrash explains that they claimed they wanted to locate treasures before the inhabitants could hide them. While strategic planning and human effort are legitimate partners with faith, the deeper sin of the spies was their lack of trust in God’s promise that the land was good and conquerable.In the Rambam section, he discusses the proper arrangement of a Torah classroom. Teachers and students should sit at the same level so that all can see and hear equally, reflecting that everyone remains a student of Torah.In the Menorat HaMaor section, Rabbi Rubenstein recounts a story of Rabbah bar Avuha and Elijah about poverty, learning Torah, and reliance on divine reward. The lesson is that basic needs are necessary for spiritual growth, but lasting fulfillment comes from eternal values rather than temporary material comfort.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 37s | ||||||
| 6/7/26 | ![]() God Enjoys a Smart-Aleck | June 7, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Shlach, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about maintaining faith, humility, and joy despite poverty.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein examines the relationship between Miriam’s criticism of Moshe, Korach’s rebellion, and the spies’ negative report about the Land of Israel. Drawing on rabbinic chronology, he explains how harmful speech can spread from respected leaders to the broader community. The placement of Miriam’s story next to the account of the spies highlights the destructive impact of lashon hara and the responsibility leaders bear for communal behavior.In the Rambam section, he discusses the requirement that Torah be taught only to students and teachers of proper moral character. Torah learning must rest on a foundation of ethical conduct and should not be entrusted to those who misuse it.In the Menorat HaMaor section, the story of Rabbi Elazar ben Pedat portrays a sage enduring severe poverty while maintaining a close relationship with God. His dialogue with God teaches that spiritual greatness can coexist with hardship and that faith may include honesty, humor, and trust.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 20m 54s | ||||||
| 6/5/26 | ![]() Finding the Appropriate Teacher | June 5, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about balancing personal spirituality with compassion for others.In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein examines why Levites are counted from age 25 in one passage and age 30 in another. The rabbis explain that five years were devoted to preparation and study before active service began. He also discusses the Levites’ retirement at age 50, noting that while they stepped back from physically demanding work, they continued contributing through appropriate roles, highlighting the value of lifelong communal involvement.In the Rambam section, he reviews laws of education, emphasizing that children should be matched with teachers suited to their abilities and that their safety and well-being take priority. He also stresses that Torah education should not be hindered by competition or neighborhood objections.In Menorat HaMaor, stories of Rabbi Hanina ben Dosa show him performing miracles to help others rather than himself. The lesson is that spiritual dedication should lead to greater kindness and sensitivity, not judgment of those who live differently.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 20m 40s | ||||||
| 6/4/26 | ![]() The Challah of R. Chanina | June 4, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah from Rambam, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about dignity, poverty, and spiritual priorities.The Torah section concludes the consecration of the Levites for divine service. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that when the Israelites placed their hands on the Levites, it symbolized that the Levites were acting on behalf of the entire nation and, in a sense, becoming a communal offering dedicated to God. He connects this to the idea that the Levites were chosen in place of the firstborn Israelites who were spared during the plague in Egypt, emphasizing that divine rescue carries a responsibility of dedication and service.The Rambam teaches that teachers must take their role seriously, be God-fearing, and devote proper attention to their students. He also sets limits on class size, requiring additional assistants or teachers when the number of students becomes too large.The story of Rabbi Chanina ben Dosa describes how a miracle prevented his wife from being embarrassed by their poverty. Later, when they requested wealth through another miracle, Rabbi Chanina learned that material gain can come at the expense of spiritual reward, highlighting the importance of humility, trust in God, and sensitivity to the dignity of others.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 20m 02s | ||||||
| 6/3/26 | ![]() The Prayer of R. Chanina | June 3, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about spiritual greatness, humility, and devotion to God despite material poverty.The Me’am Loez section discusses the consecration of the Levi’im for service in the Mishkan. Rabbi Rubenstein explains the purification rituals, including shaving and sacrifices, and reflects on their role in preparing the Levites for sacred service. He also examines the Midrashic teaching that Aaron physically “waved” the Levites before God, suggesting this symbolized their transformation into vessels dedicated to divine service.The Rambam section addresses children’s Torah education. Children should begin formal study around age six or seven, according to their readiness, and their learning should be treated as a central communal priority.The Menorat HaMaor section focuses on Rabbi Hanina ben Dosa, whose righteousness sustained the world despite his poverty. Through stories about his prayers and miracles, the lesson emphasizes that spiritual stature depends not on wealth or status, but on devotion to God and concern for the welfare of others.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 19m 04s | ||||||
| 6/2/26 | ![]() Shining Light for Others | June 2, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah from Rambam, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the value and breadth of Torah learning.The parashah section examines the symbolism of the menorah and asks why God would command its lighting if God does not need light. Through a parable of a sighted man and a blind man, Rabbi Rubenstein explains that the menorah represents God’s desire to grant honor and dignity to the Jewish people. The lesson is that relationships should be built on mutual respect and efforts to preserve the dignity of others.The Rambam section teaches that every Jewish community must establish permanent teachers for children. Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that Torah education is a defining responsibility of a Jewish community and essential to its continued existence.The Menorat HaMaor section explains the many forms of Torah knowledge attributed to Rabbi Yohanan ben Zakkai and contrasts them with the extraordinary spiritual stature of Rabbi Yonatan ben Uziel. The teaching highlights both the vast scope of Torah wisdom and its power to elevate the world. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 15m 59s | ||||||
| 6/1/26 | ![]() The Great Students of Hillel | June 1, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the transformative power of Torah learning.The parashah section focuses on the construction of the menorah from a single piece of gold. Rabbi Rubenstein recounts the Midrash that Moses struggled to understand how to make the menorah even after God showed him its design, and that Bezalel ultimately completed the task. The lesson is that fulfilling mitzvot can be difficult and often requires the talents and expertise of others.The Rambam section discusses women and Torah study. Rabbi Rubenstein examines Rambam’s view that women were not obligated in Torah study and critiques his exclusion of women from advanced learning, arguing that such views reflect historical assumptions rather than enduring Jewish values.The Menorat HaMaor section highlights the greatness of Hillel’s students, especially Rabbi Yohanan ben Zakkai and Rabbi Yonatan ben Uziel. Their examples teach that Torah learning involves both mastery of knowledge and the ability to spiritually influence and elevate the world around us.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 18m 49s | ||||||
| 5/31/26 | ![]() Being Right but Mean | May 31, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah from the Rambam, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about compassion, humility, and dedication in Torah leadership.The Me’am Loez section examines Aaron’s distress when the tribe of Levi was excluded from bringing inauguration offerings for the Mishkan. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that Aaron wrongly interpreted this as punishment for the golden calf, while God had actually reserved a greater honor for the Levites through lighting the menorah. The discussion highlights how guilt can distort perception and why sincere repentance allows a person to move forward.The Rambam section outlines the obligation to divide Torah study into three areas: written Torah, practical law, and deeper analytical study. The episode explains that advanced scholars increasingly focus on Gemara and legal reasoning.The Menorat HaMaor section continues the story of Hillel, who forgot a halachic ruling after speaking harshly to the people. The teaching emphasizes that Torah wisdom depends not only on scholarship, but also on compassion and respect for others.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 20m 14s | ||||||
| 5/29/26 | ![]() Confession for Confessing | May 29, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Naso, Hilchot Talmud Torah from the Mishneh Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about dedication to Torah learning and sincere repentance.The Me’am Loez section focuses on confession and repentance, emphasizing that reciting the Vidui without genuine inner change is itself a transgression. Rabbi Rubenstein explains the idea of prosecuting and defending angels, teaching that sincere confession removes the need for divine punishment because a person already recognizes and regrets their wrongdoing. The discussion highlights daily self-examination and honest repentance as paths to growth.In the Rambam section, the episode explains that Torah study must continue throughout a person’s life because knowledge is forgotten without constant review. Continuous learning reflects the belief that people can always improve and change.The Menorat HaMaor section recounts how Hillel the Elder answered a forgotten halachic question about the Pesach sacrifice overriding Shabbat. His dedication to Torah study led the sages to appoint him as their leader, demonstrating the value of perseverance and deep commitment to learning.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 16m 31s | ||||||
| 5/28/26 | ![]() The Temptations of Joseph | May 28, 2026 | In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Naso, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about overcoming excuses that prevent Torah study.The Me’am Loez section continues discussing teshuvah and the mitzvah of confession. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that true repentance requires abandoning sin, feeling genuine regret, and only then verbally confessing. He emphasizes that reciting prayers mechanically without sincere inner change can itself become spiritually harmful.In the Rambam section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the obligation for every Jew to establish fixed times for Torah study, regardless of wealth, poverty, health, or personal hardship. He explains that even small daily amounts of learning connect a person to the chain of Torah transmission from Moses onward.The Menorat HaMaor section focuses on Joseph resisting the wife of Potiphar despite constant temptation. The teaching presents Joseph, along with Hillel and Rabbi Elazar ben Charsom, as proof that no circumstance excuses neglecting Torah study or righteous living.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here. | 20m 13s | ||||||
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Chart Positions
6 placements across 6 markets.
Chart Positions
6 placements across 6 markets.
