The Daily Derech from Exploring Judaism

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Haazinu, Hilchot Shevitat Asor, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and the meaning of Yom Kippur. In Haazinu, Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on the verse describing God hiding the divine presence from Israel. Drawing on Nachmanides, he explains that experiencing life without God’s presence can reveal the consequences of spiritual disconnection and inspire a return to Torah. In the Rambam’s laws of Yom Kippur, he discusses when eating may be permitted for those who are ill or dangerously hungry, emphasizing that preserving life takes precedence. He also explains how children should gradually be trained to fast. Menorat HaMaor teaches that Yom Kippur’s atonement requires genuine repentance and repairing relationships with others. Rabbi Rubenstein also highlights honoring the holy day through clean, dignified clothing, alongside fasting, prayer, charity, and repentance. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HYDHB0KJOUiZc4bnLj4FHtVtc5m2Zlgr/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat HaAzinu, Hilchot Sh’vitat Asor, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, restraint, and preparing for Yom Kippur. The Parashah section focuses on remembering Jewish history and God’s relationship with previous generations. Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that understanding the past helps Jews remain conscious of the covenant, while considering the future and divine accountability can also inspire teshuvah. The Rambam section explains the minimum amounts of food and drink that constitute eating and drinking on Yom Kippur. For those who cannot safely fast, eating or drinking smaller amounts at intervals may preserve the Torah prohibition while addressing health needs. Menorat HaMaor connects Yom Kippur’s timing with the abundance of the harvest and the human tendency toward indulgence. Its discussion of the two goats presents bodily desire as something to restrain and false beliefs as something to reject completely. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BDwPmDUYs3l-m1yIHLe736171rK-HkLs/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ha’azinu, Hilchot Yom Kippur, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about Yom Kippur as a day of purification and atonement. The episode begins with Tzom Gedalia and then turns to Ha’azinu, focusing on the heavens and earth as witnesses to Israel’s covenant with God. Their constant presence means they can witness Israel’s actions and respond when the covenant is violated. The Rambam explains that Yom Kippur requires both resting from forbidden labor and fasting. Labor violates both positive and negative commandments, while eating and drinking violate the commandment to afflict oneself; other restrictions are rabbinic. Menorat HaMaor presents Jews on Yom Kippur as resembling angels, purified from sin and living in peace. This helps explain Yom Kippur as a joyous day of forgiveness, purification, and spiritual renewal. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JbuIrAsKc0cQhu_ZLgKmRKmUkNTyj8oO/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the second day Rosh Hashanah Torah reading, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and spiritual renewal. The Akedah concludes with God promising Abraham that his descendants will endure, overcome their enemies, and ultimately experience redemption. Ramban explains that this promise assures that although the Jewish people may suffer destruction and hardship, they will never be completely destroyed and will ultimately rise again. Rambam explains the placement of the shofar blasts within the Rosh Hashanah Musaf service. The three blessings of Malchuyot, Zichronot, and Shofarot each include verses reflecting their themes, followed by their corresponding series of shofar blasts. Menorat HaMaor teaches that the shofar is intended to awaken us to repentance and improve our deeds. Through this spiritual renewal, the shofar symbolizes God moving from judgment toward mercy and compassion. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE_aIqCZfyqmjCb1ZP3saMCLO2WSHw8N/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the Akedah, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the meaning and symbolism of the shofar. The Parashah section examines the binding of Isaac and Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice him. Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on Rashi and Midrashic interpretations that seek to distance God from commanding the actual sacrifice, emphasizing the rabbis’ discomfort with that reading of the Torah. The Rambam section explains the required shofar blasts for Rosh Hashanah. Because of uncertainty about the precise meaning of teruah, the halachic practice incorporates tekiah, shevarim, and teruah, resulting in a minimum of thirty blasts. Menorat HaMaor presents the shofar as a reminder of the Day of Judgment and a spiritual wake-up call. It also symbolizes the future ingathering of the Jewish people and the resurrection of the dead. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YL6RQKDLl-DwtwPgZlqF1O6XzdPFOwph/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Vayera and the Akedah, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, self-sacrifice, and awakening the soul. The Akedah is examined through rabbinic interpretations of why God tested Abraham. One view emphasizes Abraham’s devotion to God beyond his love for Isaac, while another highlights Isaac’s willingness to sacrifice himself, showing that religious life should center on serving God rather than personal reward. The Rambam explains that when Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, the shofar is generally not sounded because of the rabbinic concern that someone might carry it in the public domain. Exceptions existed when the Temple or properly ordained courts were present. Menorat HaMaor presents the shofar as a reminder of the Akedah and God’s compassion, while its broken sound awakens awe and repentance. The shofar calls us to examine our deeds, humble ourselves, and place God at the center of our lives. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1APu2NdZekuv3x3hdJrXaE_lP2FPOH5XJ/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the first day of Rosh Hashanah Torah reading, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the call of the shofar to responsibility and repentance. The Parashah section examines Abraham’s pact with Avimelech over the well at Beersheba. Sforno highlights how trust, justice, and Abraham’s relationship with God shape the encounter, while Abraham’s tamarisk represents both establishing his place and creating a welcoming space. The Rambam discusses laws concerning the shofar’s length and condition, emphasizing that varied sounds remain valid. He also explains that listeners must hear the shofar rather than merely an echo, and both blower and listener need intention for the mitzvah. Menorat HaMaor presents two reasons for sounding the shofar: remembering the prophets’ warnings and remembering the Temple’s destruction. The shofar calls people to heed warnings, take responsibility, repent, and pray for protection and redemption. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1v4JR2hyAcvhiJRK3pj0pdn6J3XTaB0eH/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the Rosh Hashanah Torah readings, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and returning to God. The Parashah section examines Hagar and Ishmael being sent into the wilderness and saved after God hears the boy’s cry. Through Rashi’s interpretation, Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that Ishmael was judged according to who he was in that moment, highlighting the importance of sincere repentance and our present actions. The Rambam section explains the Torah obligation to hear the shofar on Rosh Hashanah, why a ram’s horn is used, and requirements concerning its size, cracks, holes, additions, and sound. Menorat HaMaor presents the shofar as a warning and opportunity to repent, like a king announcing a final opportunity for pardon. It also recalls the shofar at Mount Sinai, reminding us to return to Torah and mitzvot. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lEAcLxrYhNLHLPDMxrgDdaFLOQQzUkrv/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the Rosh Hashanah readings from Genesis, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the meaning of the shofar and God’s kingship. The Me’am Loez section examines Isaac’s birth and Sarah’s demand that Hagar and Ishmael be sent away. Rashi’s interpretations of Ishmael’s behavior suggest that what begins as play or joy can quickly become idolatry, immorality, or violence, emphasizing the importance of recognizing limits. The Rambam discusses the qualifications for serving as the shaliach tzibbur, emphasizing wisdom, good character, trustworthiness, and accurate pronunciation. Rabbi Rubenstein also explains how some requirements, such as having a full beard, reflect the standards and customs of the society in which the halacha developed. Menorat HaMaor presents the mitzvot as sources of benefit for both body and soul. The shofar on Rosh Hashanah serves as a coronation ceremony, proclaiming God’s sovereignty as humanity chooses to serve Him. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vkuTTSb6Ep5hyG7CI5i8awXSFWpPoaW7/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Nitzavim Vayeilech, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the discipline of teshuvah. The Me’am Loez section examines the phrase “lo bashamayim hi,” emphasizing that Torah cannot be approached only through our own intellect or prior assumptions. Rabbi Rubenstein highlights the teaching that humility and openness are necessary to truly receive Torah as revelation and allow it to teach us something new. The Rambam section discusses when a person can fulfill the obligation of prayer by listening to the repetition of the Shaliach Tzibbur and answering Amen. Generally, this applies to those unable to pray themselves, while on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur of the Jubilee year, even those who know the prayers may rely on the leader. Menorat HaMaor presents David as establishing the path and discipline of teshuvah. His repentance ultimately enabled Solomon’s prayers to open the Temple gates, demonstrating the transformative power of repentance. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q01JVIhyX_DhbJVA86X-qhrRhmFdvT3X/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Nitzavim, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and looking upward toward God. Parashat Nitzavim focuses on the promise that God will gather the Jewish people from wherever they have been scattered and circumcise their hearts. Ramban explains this as a future time when people will naturally desire goodness, while teshuvah in the present allows us to reconnect with that inner goodness. The Rambam discusses the requirements for a prayer quorum, explaining that the ten members and prayer leader must be considered to be in one place. Different arrangements between large and small courtyards can still constitute one group, but the halacha does not by itself resolve modern questions such as Zoom prayer. Menorat HaMaor teaches that the sons of Korach were saved because they looked upward rather than following their father. The teaching emphasizes that everyone can turn toward God through repentance and ultimately separate themselves from sin. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BIi3fuljdCPzDw_CzwnfePGwINrGeyMB/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Nitzavim-Va’eilech, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, wisdom, and good deeds. The Parashah section examines Deuteronomy 30:1–3 and the promise that God will gather Israel after they return to the covenant. Focusing on the Hebrew wording, Rabbi Rubenstein highlights the Talmudic teaching that God’s Divine Presence accompanies the Jewish people through exile and redemption, emphasizing the deep relationship between God and Israel. The Rambam discusses when communal recitation of the Shema’s blessings, Kaddish, and the priestly blessing requires a quorum of ten. He also explains that if a minyan begins a sacred matter and some people leave, the remaining participants may complete it. Menorat HaMaor continues its teaching that true wisdom leads to repentance and good deeds. Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that knowledge becomes genuine wisdom when it produces righteous action and is pursued for the sake of heaven. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YhiUyEuttg3uuuxTH5NZjZKj4dxONTsS/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Nitzavim, Hilchot communal prayer from Rambam, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and strengthening the good inclination. Rabbi Rubenstein examines why Israel is brought into a renewed covenant with consequences for violating the Torah. Drawing on Rashi, he explains that exposure to other nations and their attractive values can tempt Jews away from their covenant, making commitment to Torah and its real consequences especially important. Rambam defines communal prayer as one person praying aloud while the congregation listens, requiring a quorum of ten. Even those who have already fulfilled their prayer obligation may help complete the minyan, provided most still have the obligation. Menorat HaMaor teaches that the body is like a besieged city, threatened by the evil inclination. Repentance and good deeds strengthen the good inclination, helping a person resist temptation and grow spiritually. Today's episode: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oE0ZG5Wn_rpeIxmJmEF2IAEliB0kQT1Y/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Nitzavim, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, God’s mercy, and community. The Parashah section examines Moses’ reminder that the covenant includes those standing before him and future generations. Rashi’s midrashic reading connects this moment to the frightening curses previously heard, emphasizing that Israel’s continued presence before God offers hope during repentance. The Rambam discusses communal prayer, teaching that one should pray with a community whenever possible because God receives communal prayer in a unique way. He also teaches that one should hurry toward the synagogue and linger rather than rush away. Menorat HaMaor teaches that repentance can overturn a negative divine decree, while a positive decree remains firm. Jacob’s fear despite God’s promise illustrates humility and fear of sin, while Jeremiah’s prophecy reinforces using negative possibilities as motivation for repentance. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13Kf8T1bRrAefye9KACPE3x6m6iyPe4q-/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat Nitzavim, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the power of repentance and individual responsibility. In Nitzavim, Rabbi Rubenstein examines the covenant between the Israelites and God, focusing on Rashi’s image of passing between two lines. He connects this imagery to Mount Gerizim and Mount Eval, emphasizing the Israelites’ acceptance of a distinct destiny and responsibility to live according to the Torah. The Rambam outlines the order of the morning prayer service, including blessings, Psalms, Shema, the Amidah, Tachanun, and Ashrei. He also discusses whether Kedushah in Yotzer Or requires a minyan. Menorat HaMaor teaches that each person should see themselves as balanced between merit and guilt, making every action significant. Repentance can transform a person and even overturn an already-issued decree, offering healing and divine protection. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Fy14BxOp3dQzL8JJkYqGcUcuiVVbGiOo/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat Ki Tavo, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the power of repentance. The Parashah section examines the command to inscribe the Torah on plastered stones upon entering the Land of Israel. Ibn Ezra sees this as the first mitzvah upon entering the land, while Ramban argues that the land itself is given so that Israel can fulfill the Torah and its commandments. The Rambam discusses the obligation to recite 100 blessings each day, explaining how prayers, mitzvot, meals, and blessings naturally fulfill this requirement. On Shabbat and holidays, when fewer blessings are recited, additional blessings over foods such as fruit can help complete the total. Menorat HaMaor explores Pharaoh’s repentance after recognizing God’s power. His story demonstrates that even brief, sincere repentance matters, and that God extends forgiveness and mercy even when people may later return to wrongdoing. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lef60iJgBYkaRzEjyPCYS_mo5dGC2NgD/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat Ki Tavo, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the power of repentance and covenantal relationship. The Me’am Loez / Parashah section examines the unusual wording of Deuteronomy 26:17, where Israel designates God as its God and God designates Israel as a treasured people. Rashi and the Torah Temimah explain this as a mutual act of selection, highlighting the covenant as a relationship in which both God and Israel are made uniquely special. The Rambam discusses the essential elements of Pesukei DeZimra, centered on Psalms 145–150 and surrounded by Baruch She’amar and Yishtabach. He also explains that additional songs, including the Song of the Sea, depend on communal custom. Menorat HaMaor explores King Menashe and Rabbi Shimon ben Lakish as examples of transformative repentance. Their stories emphasize that sincere teshuvah is possible for everyone during their lifetime. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/19jwcaIc4e-0DfiDOy8R_BiLGN-X5gwNl/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ki Tavo, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the power of repentance. The Parashah section examines the tithe cycle described in Deuteronomy 26, explaining how agricultural gifts were distributed among Kohanim, Levites, and the poor. The seven-year cycle alternated between Ma’aser Sheni, brought to Jerusalem, and Ma’aser Ani, given to those in need. The Rambam section discusses prayers associated with entering the bathroom, the Asher Yatzar blessing, and the blessings recited before Torah study. These practices express gratitude and ensure that Torah study follows the required blessing. Menorat HaMaor highlights the repentance of Ahab and David, showing that even serious wrongdoing can be forgiven through genuine teshuvah. Their examples emphasize that true repentance requires changing one’s behavior and is a path for everyone. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PfxAQwH1w_ggOQbtw5iWnhbALUm1VuI3/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ki Tavo, Hilchot morning blessings, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and divine compassion. The Parashah section examines the Bikurim declaration and the command to rejoice in God’s goodness alongside the Levite and stranger. The sages understand this joy as communal rather than merely personal, emphasizing that religious celebration is connected to the wellbeing of the broader community. The Rambam discusses the morning blessing Elohai Neshamah and the blessings traditionally recited while performing everyday actions. Rubenstein highlights differences between Rambam and Ashkenazi practice, particularly regarding when these blessings are said. Menorat HaMaor explores repentance through the examples of Jeconiah and Adam, showing that even severe wrongdoing does not make repentance impossible. The teaching emphasizes that God’s compassion and willingness to forgive make transformation and a renewed future possible. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_KUk_RV7iowGi0fd1O_bhC7NPtjounwq/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

See today's text here ! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ki Tavo, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the power of teshuvah. The Parashah section examines the mitzvah of bringing first fruits and reciting the declaration of gratitude and redemption. Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on the baskets, noting that the poor person’s handmade basket was kept by the Kohanim, suggesting that every sincere offering is valued and that those with less should never feel their contribution is overlooked. The Rambam discusses the bedtime blessing, which should be recited before sleep, followed by the first section of the Shema. The prayer asks for protection from evil thoughts and dreams and expresses hope for peaceful rest and awakening. Menorat HaMaor highlights God’s willingness to accept even incomplete repentance through examples including Ahab, the people of Anatot, and Nineveh. Their stories demonstrate that even the smallest movement toward teshuvah is meaningful and welcomed by God. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mDog0VeFmK1Wgo3Q2gBMNqBfdD8_j3uP/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .