Episode Details

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Bahar, Hilchot the customs and origins of Lag BaOmer, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the spiritual dangers of jealousy and desire.

The Parashah section examines the Shemitah year and the Torah’s vision of making produce ownerless so all people and animals could freely eat from the land. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that Shemitah teaches both divine ownership of the land and empathy for the poor, reminding wealthy landowners what insecurity and dependence feel like.

Instead of Rambam, the episode discusses Lag BaOmer and traces the development of its customs. Rabbi Rubenstein explains the mourning for Rabbi Akiva’s students, the later association with Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai and Jewish mysticism, and modern Zionist interpretations celebrating Jewish resistance.

The Menorat HaMaor section continues analyzing jealousy, lust, and pursuit of honor. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that these traits weaken faith, damage relationships, and prevent a person from living a meaningful spiritual life.

Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.