Unlock the secrets of divine emotions and human resilience as we explore intriguing Talmudic tales and historical insights. On this episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast, discover the fleeting nature of God's anger as illustrated in Tractate Brachot 7a, and how even the wicked prophet Bilaam could not harness it against the Jewish people. Through captivating narratives, we'll reveal the significance of a rooster's behavior in identifying this moment and share the compelling story of a sage's encounter with a heretic, highlighting the historical implications of the Birchash Haminim prayer.

Journey with us through the ages as we uncover the profound importance of the Shema prayer during the Babylonian exile, and marvel at the innovative ways Jewish communities maintained traditions under duress. Through discussions about the structure of Jewish prayer and insights from Talmudic perspectives, you'll gain a richer understanding of how prayers adapted to preserve faith amidst adversity. Our conversation shines a light on the blessings associated with witnessing powerful leaders and Torah scholars, extending the dialogue to embrace the interplay between historical events and theological beliefs.

Finally, embrace the power of personal choice and responsibility, as we share compelling stories that challenge the constraints of lineage and ancestry. From a rabbi with a Nazi officer grandfather to Larry Bird's rise from adversity, these narratives inspire a belief in the potential to shape one's own future. Concluding with reflections on Moshe's rewards at the burning bush, we offer reassurance through the lens of Talmudic teachings, encouraging listeners to trust in the divine tapestry of life's events. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of anger, tradition, and the enduring human spirit.
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The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud.

This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by David & Susan Marbin

Recorded at TORCH Meyerland in the Levin Family Studios to a live audience on March 7, 2025, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on March 19, 2025
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DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!
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SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: 

• NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodes
• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com

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EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org
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Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!
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#Talmud, #Berachos, #Talmudic, #ShemaPrayer, #Lineage, #BurningBush, #Tefillin, #Trust, #Future