God Enjoys a Smart-Aleck | June 7, 2026

Apportioning the Plunder | July 10, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Matot-Masei, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about suffering, exile, and spiritual atonement. The parashah examines how the spoils of the war against Midian were divided between the soldiers and the rest of Israel, with portions also given to the Kohanim and Levites. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that this distribution honors those who fought while emphasizing that the campaign restored holiness after the sin of Baal Peor, culminating in the officers' voluntary donation to the Mishkan. The Rambam discusses reciting Kriat Shema when excrement is covered or only residue remains, stressing that prayer should ideally take place in a clean environment. Menorat HaMaor teaches that Abraham accepted exile for his descendants rather than harsher spiritual punishment, framing Jewish suffering as an opportunity for repentance and renewed closeness to God. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech [http://exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech] and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here [https://www.templeofaaron.org/about-5-1].

Aftermath of the Midianite War | July 9, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Matot-Masei, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the spiritual value of disciplined suffering. The Parashah discusses the Israelites’ return from the battle against Midian and Moshe’s response to their handling of the captives. Rabbi Rubenstein examines the laws of ritual purification after battle, the kashering of captured vessels, and the lesson that anger can cause even great leaders to overlook important halachic details. The Rambam explains that excrement separated by a glass partition does not prevent reciting Shema, provided there is no odor. He also discusses diluting urine with water so it no longer creates a halachic barrier to prayer. The Menorat HaMaor teaches Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai’s idea that Torah, the Land of Israel, and the World to Come are acquired through disciplined effort and sacrifice. These challenges strengthen spiritual growth and help a person draw closer to God. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech [http://exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech] and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here [https://www.templeofaaron.org/about-5-1].

The War With Midian | July 8, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Matot-Masei, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the role of disciplined suffering in developing righteousness. Rabbi Rubenstein examines the opening of the war against Midian, emphasizing Moshe’s eagerness to fulfill God’s command despite knowing it would precede his death. He also highlights why Midian, but not Moab, was punished, the importance of completing a mitzvah one begins, and Bilam’s fitting downfall. The Rambam teaches that the Shema may only be recited when one is sufficiently distant from human waste, cannot see or smell it, and that physical barriers or changes in elevation may create the necessary separation. Menorat HaMaor explains that the Jewish people become righteous through disciplined suffering, exile, and self-improvement. These challenges refine character, atone for wrongdoing, and help prepare a person for eternal spiritual life. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech [http://exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech] and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here [https://www.templeofaaron.org/about-5-1].

Focusing on the Good People | July 7, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Matot-Masei, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the importance of the righteous in creation. Continuing the discussion of vows, Rabbi Rubenstein explains that a husband may annul only vows that cause his wife suffering or affect their relationship, and only before sunset or before affirming the vow. He also highlights the responsibility of anyone who causes another person to sin. The Rambam teaches that the Shema may not be recited near foul-smelling human waste, while animal waste is generally permitted unless it has a strong odor. He also distinguishes between dry waste and moisture that still retains halachic significance. Menorat HaMaor teaches that God created humanity despite foreseeing both the righteous and the wicked because the righteous make creation worthwhile. This perspective encourages us to focus on goodness rather than becoming consumed by the world's wrongdoing. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech [http://exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech] and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here [https://www.templeofaaron.org/about-5-1].

Is Hebrew Holy? | July 6, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Matot-Masei, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about humanity’s purpose as the righteous pinnacle of creation. The parashah examines vows made by widows and divorced women, explaining that they remain binding unless previously annulled by a husband. Rabbi Rubenstein also explores Ibn Ezra’s understanding that although God forgives an annulled vow, it still reflects the seriousness of making commitments carelessly. The Rambam teaches that words of Torah and even thoughts of Torah should be avoided in bathrooms and other unclean places. He also explains that secular conversation, including in Hebrew, is permitted there. The Menorat HaMaor teaches that humanity is the culmination of creation because righteous people fulfill God’s purpose. True greatness comes from using our limited time to pursue righteousness and bring lasting goodness into the world. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech [http://exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech] and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here [https://www.templeofaaron.org/about-5-1].