Episode Details

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Pinchas, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about overcoming covetousness as the foundation of righteous living.

In the Me’am Loez section, Rabbi Rubenstein discusses a Midrash describing the angels’ objection to Pinchas stopping the plague after killing Zimri. God defends Pinchas’ zeal for the covenant, teaching that sincere devotion can transform divine judgment and that faithfulness sometimes requires standing against both popular opinion and heavenly expectations.

In the Rambam section, he explains that if one is unsure whether the Shema was recited, it should be repeated along with its blessings. He also discusses how to correct mistakes during the recitation without repeating the opening verse unnecessarily.

In the Menorat HaMaor section, Rabbi Rubenstein explains that coveting lies at the root of many sins. By mastering desire, a person strengthens their commitment to the Torah and its commandments.