Unboxing Judaism · Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

In this Episode (#16) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the controversy surrounding the Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel's Independence Day) and some refreshing perspectives on this national holiday.   ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov N...

The Jewish response to elections – whether the shocking victory of an openly anti-Semitic mayor in New York City or any political upheaval throughout history – must be twofold: before the vote, we exercise full hishtadlut (effort) by voting, cultivating goodwill with leaders, and supporting candidates who protect Jewish safety (as our Sages sent gifts to Caesar and Rabbi Akiva petitioned Rome); af...

Join us as we explore the intricate relationship between Jews and politics in America. In our conversation, we express gratitude towards the United States for the unprecedented freedoms and safety it offers to the Jewish community, contrasting this with historical persecution elsewhere. We also examine the spiritual tension between feeling at home in America and the deep-seated longing for Israel,...

Discover the profound meaning behind the concept of the "chosen people" in Jewish tradition and learn how this identity is more about commitment than superiority. Our recent Siyum HaShas celebration serves as a backdrop for this exploration, highlighting the Jewish community's unique relationship with the Torah (Listen to Episode 22: Click Here ). We tackle the often-misunderstood notion of chosen...

Rabbi Yaakov Nagel shares his transformative journey into the world of Daf Yomi on the Unboxing Judaism Podcast. With over two decades of dedication to this daily Talmud study, Rabbi Nagel opens up about his initial uncertainty and the remarkable camaraderie formed through this global learning community. His insights into the unique challenges and methods of mastering the Talmud inspire listeners,...

When we witness the fall of someone who has embodied evil, the tangle of emotions can be as complex as the Talmudic debates themselves. In this episode we embark on a riveting journey through the Jewish lens on justice, mercy, and the celebration—or lack thereof—of an adversary's demise. Our conversation was sparked by the global reactions to the death of the Iranian president, Ibrahim Raisi Y"S,...

When the world seems to spin a little slower and the heart feels the heavy weight of loss, it's the shared stories that bring comfort and understanding. We extend a tender hand through the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, offering solace and wisdom in the wake of Rabbi Nagel’s mother's passing. Our conversation seeks to unfold the layered emotions and spiritual questions that surface during times of mour...

In this Episode (#12) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the question of "Celebrating X-mas with a Chanukah Bush" and is there anything really wrong with intermarrying between Jews and non-Jews? Is it not ok for us to agree to just "raise them Jewish"?! ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics t...

Ever wondered why some religious Jews choose not to serve in the Israeli Defense Force (IDF)? You might be surprised to learn that many proudly enlist, paralleling their service with the historical narrative of Moses and the war with Amalek. This episode of Unboxing Judaism Podcast delves into the complex intersection of religious practice and military service - illustrating how Torah study and pr...

Prepare to embark on a captivating journey with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe and Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, as they trace the intricate customs of hair covering for married Jewish women back to its roots in the Torah. Promise to be intrigued as they grapple with challenging questions - from the extra stringency of some women choosing to shave their heads to the ongoing halacha discussion about the modesty of wearin...

In this Episode (#17) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the misunderstanding that people have about the setup, dating and marriage of men and women in Torah-observant world. Not it's not arranged.  ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Ya...

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Shavuos, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the magnificent TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of holiness and connection with our creator! Each of us shared an idea about Shavuos and how to make the most of this powerful holiday. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Pesach with the Podcasters of T...

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Pesach, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the magnificent TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of redemption & freedom. Each of us shared an idea about Pesach and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Pesach with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance. Fea...

In this Episode (#15) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the opportunities and challenges of technology and the impact it has on us, adults, and our precious children. They share practical tools to enhance our and our childrens protection from unwanted outside influences. ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and moder...

In this Episode (#14) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the challenging news of tragedies, whenever they occur. What is the reason, lesson and growth opportunity from tragic incident that we hear about.  ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Ra...

In this Episode (#13) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the troubling trend of anti-zionism from a multitude of groups. From the extreme right to the extreme left, different forces find ways to disconnect from the Promised Land. No land on earth is more precious and no land is more disputed by other nations taking claim to the Jewish homeland. ****...

In this Episode (#11) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the question of "Isn't It Enough To Just Be Good?!" Why do we need so many commandments in the Torah? Shouldn't it be sufficient for each person to just do good a do away with the minute details of the Torah and it's laws?! ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish a...

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Chanukah, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of light. Each of us shared an idea about Chanukah and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Chanukah with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance. ***** Unboxing Judaism Podca...

We apologize for the compromised audio quality in this episode. We are using new technology and are still learning to properly utilize it to optimize and enhance your listening experience. Discussed in this Podcast (Episode 10): What is the reason behind the recent bout of antisemitism and how come the Jews have been on the receiving end of so much hate throughout our history. Is there perhaps an...

Discussed in this Podcast (Episode 9): Is it OK to Disagree with God? Do I have to agree with everything written in the Torah? What's if I think it's outdated and archaic and isn't relevant to our generation? This and mre are discused in the episode. To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to unboxing@torchweb.org Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion o...

Discussed in this Podcast (Episode 8): Does Kosher mean blessed by a Rabbi? Why do we need Kosher Supervision on food? Why are there so many organizations that supervise Kosher? Should we recite a blessing on non-kosher food?  Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston...

Discussed in this Podcast: Do the Jews have it right? Are we so confident that our way is the best ay to live life? Also, What is the most important character trait to focus on in our journey of self perfection? Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Rabbi Y...

This special Sukkos episode is dedicated in honor of our dear friends, Peter & Becky Botvin, who have been such dedicated friends of TORCH for many years! May Hashem continue to bless you with great health and success in all your endeavors. In this episode Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, together with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH President Dan Kullman discuss the man...

Discussed in this Podcast: Why should a Jew feel compelled to study Torah, a document handed down to Moshe and the Jewish people 3,300 year ago and what is it's relevance to us today? Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Rabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding...

Discussed in this Podcast: (1) Would assimilation and intermarriage with the gentiles perhaps decrease antisemitism and hatred against the Jews? (2) Is it true that if a Jew gets a tattoo they can not be buried in a Jewish cemetery?  Unboxing Judaism is a podcast discussing fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Hou...