Episode Details

In this Ask Away #27 episode of the Everyday Judaism podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fields live and emailed questions on practical halacha, with emphasis on thoughtful, intentional Jewish living.

Key topics include:

• Netilat Yadayim (hand-washing): Proper technique (one continuous flow of water, ideally covering the entire hand to the wrist), alternatives when no vessel is available (faucet with human force by turning on/off), and the spiritual significance (removing arrogance before eating bread).
• Temple-related immersions: Today, men have no biblical obligation for mikvah (unlike women after niddah); these laws will fully apply again with the future Temple.
• Scam suspicion on online forums: Use common sense—don’t give to unknown causes (especially overseas); prioritize local tzedakah; report suspected scams; avoid reckless generosity that risks financial harm.
• Finding a rabbi/mentor: Actively pursue a teacher (run after them); persistence is key (e.g., leave persistent voicemails); a rabbi provides personalized guidance in halacha, life, and growth—don’t wait for one to chase you.
• Order of morning blessings: Follow body needs first (restroom), then wash hands, recite Al Netilat Yadayim, Asher Yatzar, then Elokai Neshama (attach them); Modeh Ani comes immediately upon waking.

The rabbi shares inspiring stories (e.g., a woman’s soul-leaving experience resolved by mikvah) and stresses daily growth, community, and avoiding superstition while embracing practical mitzvot.

Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org

_____________
The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way.
_____________
This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen Lerner

• Download & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:
  https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5

This episode (Ep. #82) of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!

Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on December 21, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on January 19, 2026
_____________
Connect with Us:
Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism Podcast

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1C

Share your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  
_____________

About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
_____________

Support Our Mission:
Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!
_____________