Unlock the wisdom of ancient debates and discover how two opposing viewpoints can both hold truth. Our latest episode challenges the notion of conflict resolution within Jewish law, taking inspiration from the timeless arguments between Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel. We explore why the rulings typically follow Beit Hillel and what this teaches us about humility, openness, and respectful debate. These lessons carry parallels to today's public policy discussions and societal tensions, offering fresh insights into navigating modern disagreements.

Success doesn't happen overnight, and a friend's remarkable journey from nothing to building a booming business is a testament to this truth. Through their story, we explore the virtues of perseverance and patience, drawing connections to a Talmudic debate on the value of human existence amidst life's challenges. Life isn't without its struggles, but these moments are ripe with potential for spiritual growth and self-reflection. We'll share how the lessons of the Talmud and morning blessings can inspire us to make the most out of our lives.

Finally, we celebrate the spiritual over the material, emphasizing the significance of values and humility in our daily lives. Through personal stories and reflections, we discuss the impact of parental attitudes on children's perception of wealth, and the importance of instilling values that transcend materialism. As we wrap up, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the community's support of the Talmud study class at Torch, encouraging listeners to share the joy of Torah study. Wishing everyone a Shabbos filled with learning, gratitude, and friendship.

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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 (#71) of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast is dedicated in honor of Bruce Licht.

This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on January 31, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 7, 2025
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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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#Talmud, #Humility, #Eruvin, #Shammai, #Hillel

Listen in to the fascinating discourse within Talmud (Eruvin 13b), and as we uncover the profound debates between the house of Shammai and the house of Hillel concerning the phrasing of morning blessings. We delve into the wisdom of Rav Meir, whose intricate logic in Halacha was often beyond the grasp of his peers, resulting in the Halacha not always aligning with his views. We also touch on the Kabbalistic notion that the world was crafted through divine utterances, highlighting the powerful significance of the Aleph Beis letters. Through a personal anecdote about my grandfather's rabbi, we emphasize the mystical importance of understanding these letters in Jewish spirituality.

In our conversation, we further examine the exceptional analytical abilities of Rebbe Meir, a Talmudic sage known for his capacity to argue both sides of an issue convincingly. We discuss the role of visual interaction in learning and how a teacher's facial expressions can enhance comprehension. The episode also touches on the importance of Agadic Talmud, offering deeper narratives and teachings. We explore the impressive skills of Rebbe Meir's disciple, Sumchus, who could provide extensive reasoning for various rulings, and recount the extraordinary talents of the Gaon of Vilna, showcasing his deep understanding of the Talmud from a young age. This engaging discussion underscores the value of opposition in Jewish legal rulings, providing a stark contrast to the concept of unanimous decisions often seen in modern legal systems.

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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 (#71) of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast is dedicated in honor of Bruce Licht.

This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on January 17, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on February 4, 2025
_____________
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!
_____________
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

_____________
EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
_____________
#Talmud, #Humility, #Eruvin, #Shammai, #Hillel, #MorningBlessings, #RavMeir, #Halacha, #Kabbalah, #Hebrew, #DivineCreation, #Agadic, #Storytelling, #Sumchus, #Vilna, #LegalRulings, #Unanimity, #ModernLegalSystems, #Talmudic, #JewishThought,