Unboxing Judaism · Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe artwork

Unboxing Judaism · Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

24 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 1 month ago - ★★★★★ - 12 ratings

The Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a lively dialogue and discussion between Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe that helps unbox and demystify the most fundamental ideas in Judaism that are commonly misunderstood.

Judaism Religion & Spirituality torah jewish judaism jew mitzvah torch houston shabbos shabbat kollel
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Episodes

Ep. 20 - Death, Mourning and Afterlife

March 25, 2024 05:00 - 39 minutes - 27.2 MB

When the world seems to spin a little slower and the heart feels the heavy weight of loss, it's the shared stories that bring comfort and understanding. We extend a tender hand through the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, offering solace and wisdom in the wake of Rabbi Nagel’s mother's passing. Our conversation seeks to unfold the layered emotions and spiritual questions that surface during times of mourning, considering why our souls stir with both sorrow and purpose upon entering this wo...

Ep. 12 - Celebrating X-mas with a Chanukah Bush?

December 10, 2023 06:00 - 30 minutes - 14 MB

In this Episode (#12) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the question of "Celebrating X-mas with a Chanukah Bush" and is there anything really wrong with intermarrying between Jews and non-Jews? Is it not ok for us to agree to just "raise them Jewish"?! ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe fr...

Ep. 19 - Why Don't the Religious Serve in the IDF?!

December 06, 2023 08:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MB

Ever wondered why some religious Jews choose not to serve in the Israeli Defense Force (IDF)? You might be surprised to learn that many proudly enlist, paralleling their service with the historical narrative of Moses and the war with Amalek. This episode of Unboxing Judaism Podcast delves into the complex intersection of religious practice and military service - illustrating how Torah study and prayer act as a spiritual shield for the Jewish people. Even amidst the contentious stanc...

Ep. 18 - Wigs & Shaitels: The Elegant Enigma - Delving into the Dynamics of Modesty and Jewish Tradition

July 28, 2023 05:00 - 19 minutes - 13.8 MB

Prepare to embark on a captivating journey with Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe and Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, as they trace the intricate customs of hair covering for married Jewish women back to its roots in the Torah. Promise to be intrigued as they grapple with challenging questions - from the extra stringency of some women choosing to shave their heads to the ongoing halacha discussion about the modesty of wearing wigs. They provide rich insights, exploring the various perspectives held by differen...

Ep. 17 - Arranged Marriages

June 08, 2023 06:00 - 26 minutes - 21.1 MB

In this Episode (#17) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the misunderstanding that people have about the setup, dating and marriage of men and women in Torah-observant world. Not it's not arranged.  ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas To have your questions fe...

Shavuos Roundtable (with TORCH Rabbis & Podcasters)

May 22, 2023 06:00 - 1 hour - 52.2 MB

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Shavuos, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the magnificent TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of holiness and connection with our creator! Each of us shared an idea about Shavuos and how to make the most of this powerful holiday. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Pesach with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance. Featured in this episode: Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, Rabbi Aryeh Wo...

Ep. 16 - Yom Ha'atzmaut

April 30, 2023 11:00 - 31 minutes - 14.7 MB

In this Episode (#16) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the controversy surrounding the Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel's Independence Day) and some refreshing perspectives on this national holiday.   ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas To have your questions featured...

Pesach Roundtable (with TORCH Rabbis & Podcasters)

April 03, 2023 15:30 - 55 minutes - 44.7 MB

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Pesach, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the magnificent TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of redemption & freedom. Each of us shared an idea about Pesach and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Pesach with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance. Featured in this episode: Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH...

Ep. 15 - Technology & Children

March 01, 2023 16:25 - 32 minutes - 15 MB

In this Episode (#15) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the opportunities and challenges of technology and the impact it has on us, adults, and our precious children. They share practical tools to enhance our and our childrens protection from unwanted outside influences. ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and ...

Ep. 14 - Understanding Tragedies

January 26, 2023 20:12 - 24 minutes - 11.4 MB

In this Episode (#14) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the challenging news of tragedies, whenever they occur. What is the reason, lesson and growth opportunity from tragic incident that we hear about.  ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas To have your questi...

Ep. 13 - Why Are So Many Jews Anti-Zionists?

January 18, 2023 23:47 - 21 minutes - 9.91 MB

In this Episode (#13) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the troubling trend of anti-zionism from a multitude of groups. From the extreme right to the extreme left, different forces find ways to disconnect from the Promised Land. No land on earth is more precious and no land is more disputed by other nations taking claim to the Jewish homeland. ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topic...

Ep. 11 - Isn't It Enough To Just Be Good?!

December 14, 2022 23:16 - 24 minutes - 11.3 MB

In this Episode (#11) of the Unboxing Judaism Podcast, Rabbi Yaakov Nagel & Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe discuss the question of "Isn't It Enough To Just Be Good?!" Why do we need so many commandments in the Torah? Shouldn't it be sufficient for each person to just do good a do away with the minute details of the Torah and it's laws?! ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens of our Torah and heritage with Rabbi Yaakov Nag...

Chanukah Roundtable with TORCH Rabbis & Podcasters

December 13, 2022 07:11 - 1 hour - 90.6 MB

In preparation for the upcoming festival of Chanukah, the TORCH Rabbis and Podcasters gathered together in the TORCH Centre to discuss the upcoming days of light. Each of us shared an idea about Chanukah and how to make the most of these days. If you want to experience a convivial, collegial, conversation about Chanukah with the Podcasters of TORCH, now is your chance. ***** Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion on fundamental Jewish and modern cultural topics through the lens ...

Ep. 10 - Antisemitism - Why the Jews?!

December 08, 2022 00:02 - 30 minutes - 14.2 MB

We apologize for the compromised audio quality in this episode. We are using new technology and are still learning to properly utilize it to optimize and enhance your listening experience. Discussed in this Podcast (Episode 10): What is the reason behind the recent bout of antisemitism and how come the Jews have been on the receiving end of so much hate throughout our history. Is there perhaps an underlying message and what can we do to combat it? This and more are discussed in t...

Ep. 9 - Is it OK to Disagree with God?

December 02, 2022 12:00 - 29 minutes - 13.3 MB

Discussed in this Podcast (Episode 9): Is it OK to Disagree with God? Do I have to agree with everything written in the Torah? What's if I think it's outdated and archaic and isn't relevant to our generation? This and mre are discused in the episode. To have your questions featured in a future podcast, please submit your questions to [email protected] Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nage...

Ep. 8 - Kosher: Blessed by a Rabbi

November 02, 2022 22:43 - 33 minutes - 15.5 MB

Discussed in this Podcast (Episode 8): Does Kosher mean blessed by a Rabbi? Why do we need Kosher Supervision on food? Why are there so many organizations that supervise Kosher? Should we recite a blessing on non-kosher food?  Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Rabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since ...

Ep. 7 - Do The Jews Have it Right?

October 26, 2022 21:39 - 27 minutes - 12.7 MB

Discussed in this Podcast: Do the Jews have it right? Are we so confident that our way is the best ay to live life? Also, What is the most important character trait to focus on in our journey of self perfection? Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Rabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additiona...

Sukkah Roundtable with TORCH Rabbis & Podcasters

October 13, 2022 18:41 - 1 hour - 30.3 MB

This special Sukkos episode is dedicated in honor of our dear friends, Peter & Becky Botvin, who have been such dedicated friends of TORCH for many years! May Hashem continue to bless you with great health and success in all your endeavors. In this episode Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, together with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel, Rabbi Yaakov Wolbe, Rabbi Chaim Bucsko and TORCH President Dan Kullman discuss the many ideas, facets and aspects of Sukkot.  To watch video and/or listen to the podcasts of R...

Ep. 6 - Why Study Torah?

June 13, 2022 21:17 - 39 minutes - 18 MB

Discussed in this Podcast: Why should a Jew feel compelled to study Torah, a document handed down to Moshe and the Jewish people 3,300 year ago and what is it's relevance to us today? Unboxing Judaism Podcast is a discussion of fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Rabbi Yaakov Nagel is the founding member of TORCH and has been active since 1998. Additionally, Rabbi Nagel serves as t...

Ep. 5 - Assimilation and Tattoos

April 27, 2021 17:00 - 30 minutes - 14.1 MB

Discussed in this Podcast: (1) Would assimilation and intermarriage with the gentiles perhaps decrease antisemitism and hatred against the Jews? (2) Is it true that if a Jew gets a tattoo they can not be buried in a Jewish cemetery?  Unboxing Judaism is a podcast discussing fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Recorded on April 21, 2021, at TORCH Centre (Studio B) in Houston, Te...

Ep. 4 - Creating Barriers

April 23, 2021 00:14 - 37 minutes - 17.2 MB

Unboxing Judaism is a podcast discussing fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Please send your questions or comments to [email protected]. For all other podcasts available by TORCH please visit www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded on February 3, 2021, at TORCH Centre (Studio A) in Houston, Texas. Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educationa...

Ep. 3 - Don’t be Stingy with your Wisdom

January 19, 2021 00:41 - 38 minutes - 17.7 MB

Unboxing Judaism is a podcast discussing fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, in Houston, Texas Please send your questions or comments to [email protected]. For other podcasts available from TORCH please visit www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded on January 13, 2021, at TORCH Centre (Studio A) in Houston, Texas. Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational ...

Ep. 2 - Wait, Don't Judge Me!

January 06, 2021 14:00 - 36 minutes - 16.6 MB

Unboxing Judaism is a podcast with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, where they discuss fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture. Please send your questions or comments to [email protected]. For other podcasts available from TORCH please visit www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded on December 17, 2020, at TORCH Centre in Houston, Texas. Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available...

Ep. 1 - Fiddler's "Tradition"

January 05, 2021 18:03 - 33 minutes - 15.4 MB

Unboxing Judaism is a podcast with Rabbi Yaakov Nagel and Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe from TORCH, where they discuss fundamental Jewish topics through the lens of modern culture. Please send your questions or comments to [email protected]. For other podcasts available from TORCH please visit www.TORCHpodcasts.com Recorded on December 9, 2020, at TORCH Centre in Houston, Texas. Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our Jewish outreach and educational resources available ...