TakeTen4Torah Daily Torah Podcast

TT4T#33 - Torah Should Be Painless - 12/14/16

Proverbs offers the following description of the Torah: "Its ways are ways of pleasantness and all its paths are peace." This Ten explores the practical applications of this concept through our very first mitzvah and more. Should Halacha hurt? We certainly hope not. 

TT4T#32 - "613" - 12/13/16

This Ten discusses the well known idea that there are a total of 613 mitzvot throughout the Torah. Are there really only 613 things that we are required to do? Listen and learn of the true nature of this number and the significant importance of knowing what these 613 are.

 

 

TT4T#31 - Fake News - 12/12/16

It has come to light that the internet contains information that is not true. As shocking as that is, this outbreak of "Fake News" symbolizes our tendency to uncritically believe the things that we hear, as damaging as those things might be to whom they concern. This Ten deals with the Jewish perspective on Motzie Shem Ra, or slander, and discusses how it might just be the only crime that Judaism believes to be... unforgivable. 

TT4T#30 - I, Leah - 12/9/16

In this week's parsha, we are introduced to our matriarch Leah through a description of her "tender" eyes. This Ten discusses the controversy that exists in understanding that description and the various facets of her life through the midrashic account. She was hopeful, yet frustrated. Determined, yet empathetic. A true Jewish mother for us all.   

TT4T#29 - Is Maariv Optional? - 12/8/16

The Gemara tells us that from the beginning of our parsha, we see that Yaakov Avinu was the originator of our evening prayer, Maariv. Maariv is unlike Shacharit and Mincha in that the Maariv prayer has no Korban that corresponds to it. For this reason, the Gemara debates whether or not Maariv is obligatory or simply "optional." This Ten deals with this debate and its practical relevance to how we end our day. 

TT4T#28 - A Day in Infamy? You Decide - 12/7/16

Today marks the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor, a date that FDR declared would "live in infamy." We have all had days in our life that we find to be unforgettably bad as well. This Ten deals with the question of whether there might be another way to classify these difficult days and whether, using tools left to us by the great R' Akiva, we can interperet our way to better memories.

TT4T#27 - When a Torah Falls - 12/6/16

There is nothing quite like the unfortunate "thud" of a Torah hitting the ground. But what is the appropriate reaction? Do we really have to fast for 40 days? Even if I wasn't looking?!? This Ten briefly discusses the different opinions, traditions, and approaches to this issue and ultimately reminds us that when dealing with the Torah, always hold on tight!

TT4T#26 - Do It For Mom and Dad - 12/5/16

This Ten discusses Yaakov's motivations when dealing kindly with Lavan and proposes some ways to honor parents that might be very different than what we are used to. This Ten is L'ilui Nishmat my mother, Necha bas Avraham, whose second Yahrtzeit is next week. 

TT4T#25 - Making It Rain - 12/2/16

This Sunday night, December 4th, at Maariv, we begin adding the phrase "ותן טל ומטר לברכה" to our Shemona Esrei. This phrase encapsulates the specific request and prayer for rain. This Ten explores why this change occurs when it does in Israel and in the Diaspora, what we do when we forget to make the change, and explains the responsibilities we have for others when "Making It Rain."

 

TT4T#24 - The Value of Time - 12/1/16

Into our second month we go! Listen to our special guest explain the meaning of months, the power of the moon, the eternity of the Jewish people, and how the holiness of time rises above all else. Take Ten today to better appreciate the value of your time.