Always Begin With A Joke | July 13, 2026

Always Begin With A Joke | July 13, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Devarim, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance through suffering and Jewish unity. The parashah recounts Moses’ review of Israel’s recent victories over Sihon and Og before beginning his final explanation of the Torah. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that these victories proved Israel’s failures stemmed from spiritual shortcomings rather than military weakness and highlights the importance of renewing Torah before entering the Land of Israel. The Rambam teaches that Kriat Shema may not be recited in the presence of nakedness, requiring one to avert one’s gaze because the prohibition depends on seeing, not physical distance. Menorat HaMaor teaches that communal suffering and exile can lead to redemption even when repentance begins under pressure. The discussion emphasizes that hardship can foster Jewish unity and ultimately draw the nation closer to God.

What is Moshe Saying? | July 12, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Devarim, Hilchot Kriat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the purpose of exile and suffering. The parashah examines the opening verses of Devarim, highlighting differing medieval interpretations of Moses’ introductory words and the listed place names. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that they either recount Israel’s past failures as ethical rebuke or identify geographical locations, emphasizing reflection, repentance, and the renewed teaching of Torah before entering the Land of Israel. The Rambam teaches that one must distance oneself from foul odors before reciting Kriat Shema and avoid praying near places designated for waste, even when no odor is present. Menorat HaMaor explains that exile and physical suffering are preferable to spiritual punishment, teaching that temporary hardship refines the Jewish people and prepares them for ultimate redemption and the World to Come. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech [http://exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech] and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here [https://www.templeofaaron.org/about-5-1].

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].