The Daily Derech from Exploring Judaism

Exploring Judaism

The Daily Derech is an opportunity for anyone to gain insight into the weekly Torah portion, learn Jewish law, and deepen their spiritual practice.

A project of ExploringJudaism.org and Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein (Temple of Aaron)

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Friday · 24 min
The Joy of the Water Drawing | Ocotber 2nd, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Kohelet, Hilchot Shofar, Sukkah, and Lulav, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the meaning of Shemini Atzeret. The final verse of Kohelet emphasizes revering God, observing the mitzvot, and directing one’s heart toward God. Rashi and Ibn Ezra understand the verse as a conclusion that brings people back to their spiritual purpose despite the many questions and disagreements explored throughout the book. The Rambam describes the joyful celebration of Sukkot in the Temple, including music, dancing, singing, and public participation. He extends this lesson to all mitzvot, teaching that sincere joy and humility in serving God are essential. Menorat HaMaor explains Shemini Atzeret through the image of a king asking his children to remain one extra day because parting is difficult. The holiday provides a final day of rejoicing and closeness with God before leaving the festival season. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DiYC4LWgcDoqV9YOB54X_KrUWtFx5XSl/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
Thursday · 19 min
The Kosher Lulav | October 1st, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Kohelet, Hilchot Sukkah and Lulav, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about finding joy and beauty in mitzvot. Kohelet 9:10 teaches that we should act on what is within our power rather than delay. Rabbi Rubenstein compares Rashi’s focus on performing mitzvot with Ibn Ezra’s broader emphasis on permitted enjoyment, suggesting that both perspectives have value. The Rambam discusses the requirements that determine whether the four species are kosher, including issues involving dryness, bending, damaged leaves, holes, missing pieces, and other physical defects in the lulav, hadas, aravah, and etrog. Menorat HaMaor explains that the mitzvah of sukkah should be enjoyable rather than distressing, which is reflected in exemptions for those experiencing hardship. It also emphasizes beautifying the mitzvah by creating an attractive, distinctive sukkah and decorating it with beautiful objects. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Jhi2JigtQWG0MW0GaJ4NOh7baa2by7MW/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
Wednesday · 18 min
The Willow Ceremony | September 30th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Kohelet, Hilchot Sukkot, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the spiritual meaning of the number ten. Kohelet 7:14 teaches that we should enjoy times of good fortune while using difficult times for reflection and growth. Rashi and the Midrash offer additional perspectives, emphasizing opportunities to do good and the importance of supporting others in both joy and hardship. The Rambam discusses the willow ritual performed in the Temple during Sukkot, including the separate willow branches placed around the altar each day. The episode also explains how modern customs, including Hoshana Rabbah and striking the willows, preserve memories of the Temple practices. Menorat HaMaor explores the symbolic significance of ten as representing holiness and realities beyond the physical world. The number appears throughout Jewish practice, including the Ten Days of Repentance, ten verses of the Rosh Hashanah prayers, and the requirement of ten for communal matters of holiness. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HelmRSCSe6qs-uRcZ6Yom_QTGyElRRNX/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
Tuesday · 25 min
Beyond the 9th Sphere | September 29th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Kohelet, Hilchot Sukkah uLulav, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the connection between the physical and spiritual realms. Kohelet teaches that because God has a broader perspective than human beings, we should be cautious about speaking rashly or judging what happens in the world from our limited viewpoint. The commentators emphasize trusting God’s wisdom while focusing on living responsibly and thoughtfully. Rambam discusses the laws of shaking the lulav, including when it is taken during Sukkot, how it is bound, and the distinction between the Torah obligation on the first day and the rabbinic practice of taking it throughout the festival as a remembrance of the Temple. Menorat HaMaor explores the minimum height of a sukkah through a philosophical teaching about the boundary between the physical and divine realms. The sukkah’s schach represents God’s protection and occupies a space associated with the divine. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1eU2fJjlee2PZFppRTQGz2OEbZroa2U_b/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
Monday · 22 min
Concealment in the Heart | September 28th, 2026
See today's text here! Here’s a 4-paragraph summary following your exact structure and staying within 120–150 words: In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Kohelet, Hilchot Lulav, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about recognizing God’s presence and blessings in our lives. Kohelet teaches that God brings events about at their proper time while concealing knowledge of the future. Rashi explains that this hiddenness encourages people to depend on one another and to live each day with possibility, trust, and purpose. The Rambam begins Hilchot Lulav by defining the four species and explaining their requirements. Rabbi Rubenstein discusses the lulav, etrog, myrtle, and willow, including their proper forms, sizes, arrangement, and the requirement to hold them according to their natural growth. Menorat HaMaor explains why Sukkot occurs in the rainy season, making its religious purpose clear rather than resembling ordinary outdoor shelter. The sukkah also reminds us of God’s protection in the wilderness and encourages gratitude, contemplation, and trust in divine provision. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1QVjxTJwyKZW9Xmzd6L3D01y57tfyeqR6/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 25 · 14 min
Sevens | September 25th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the first day of Sukkot, Hilchot Shofar, Sukkah, and Lulav, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the significance of seven. The Parashah section examines the four species of Sukkot and Rashi’s explanations for the Torah’s unusual descriptions of the etrog, lulav, myrtle, and willow. The discussion highlights how the etrog remains attached to its tree and how the myrtle’s leaves resemble intertwined cords. The Rambam section explains when reading or praying in the sukkah is appropriate, when rain permits leaving the sukkah, and why one need not return after the rain stops. It also discusses maintaining the sukkah and reciting its blessing. Menorat HaMaor explores the many appearances of seven during Tishrei and Sukkot. The seven species and seven days of Sukkot connect to the tradition of seven clouds of glory surrounding Israel. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1SDYtLxv1a0BCFRc84Oyw6UxtbuhiVwuC/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 24 · 25 min
The Lulav Trophy | September 24th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the first Torah reading for the first day of Sukkot, Hilchot Sukkah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about righteousness and transmitting Torah. The Parashah section examines the shofar’s connection to Rosh Hashanah, noting that the Torah describes a sounding without explicitly naming the shofar. Rabbi Rubenstein explains how the rabbis connected it to the Jubilee year, where the shofar proclaimed freedom, giving Rosh Hashanah a deeper theme of renewal and release. The Rambam discusses who is exempt from dwelling in the sukkah, including people who are sick, uncomfortable, traveling, or engaged in another mitzvah. He also explains the obligation to make the sukkah one’s primary dwelling during the festival. Menorat HaMaor explores seven forms of righteousness and the different kinds of light righteous people bring into the world. It emphasizes those who faithfully and patiently transmit Torah to the next generation, connecting this work with the joy and spiritual victory of Sukkot. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1DhzSDbAE7EQsv6NoQRX7j_1mB-LbA-7i/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 23 · 21 min
Clouds of Glory | September 23rd, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the first-day Sukkot reading, Hilchot Sukkah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about God’s protection in the wilderness. The Parashah section examines the counting of the Omer and the Torah’s reference to beginning the count after Shabbat. Rabbi Rubenstein explains the disagreement between the Sadducees and Pharisees over how to interpret this phrase and why the rabbinic interpretation begins the counting on the second day of Pesach. The Rambam section discusses laws concerning valid and invalid schach, including mixtures of roofing materials, invalid areas, decorations, and the requirement that most of the sukkah be shaded. Menorat HaMaor explores Rabbi Eliezer’s teaching about the seven clouds of glory. The clouds protected the Israelites, provided light, removed obstacles, and gathered those who could not keep up, expanding the meaning of the sukkah as a symbol of divine care. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BC9dSS3Czdb7Nsf9EMq1o9kmoLyxbp4E/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 22 · 24 min
The Nature of Skach | September 22nd, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the first day of Sukkot Torah reading, Hilchot Sukkah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about trusting in God. The Parashah section examines the laws of Passover, Chol HaMoed, the Omer offering, and the distinction between hadash and yishan grain. It also discusses Rashi’s understanding of the Passover sacrifice, offerings on Chol HaMoed, and the waving of the Omer. The Rambam section focuses on the laws of valid schach for a sukkah. Rabbi Rubenstein explains which natural materials may be used, how processing affects their status, and rules concerning reed mats and wooden planks. Menorat HaMaor teaches that Sukkot reminds us not to place our ultimate trust in physical security or human strength. Instead, we should recognize that our blessings, protection, and possessions ultimately come from God. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MLFWdPySHuRqdriL7Y9LyIB7vusFGn6b/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 20 · 19 min
Onto Sukkot | September 20th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the Sukkot Torah reading, Hilchot Sukkah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about finding joy in serving God. The Sukkot reading begins with laws governing sacrifices, including restrictions on young animals, sacrificing a mother and offspring on the same day, and consuming sacrificial meat within its proper time. These laws demonstrate that an offering’s acceptability involves more than its physical condition. Rambam’s Hilchot Sukkah outlines foundational requirements for a kosher sukkah, including its height, minimum area, and three-wall structure. Rabbi Rubenstein also explains the principle of lavud and how trees or other materials can serve as walls when properly secured. Menorat HaMaor emphasizes that Sukkot follows the self-affliction of Yom Kippur with a season of rejoicing. Its joy should not be merely physical pleasure, but should be directed toward God and expressed through the mitzvot of the holiday. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/16Sgx_qezg5I_d1MCOagqHXiEUtw649EG/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 18 · 16 min
Each Word is Holy | September 18th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat HaZinu, Hilchot Yom Kippur, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, holiness, and freedom. The HaZinu section concludes with Moses preparing to die without entering the land. Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on the Torah being one’s very life, emphasizing that every word and detail of Torah contains meaning and lessons for living and growing closer to God. The Rambam discusses Yom Kippur restrictions, including avoiding leather shoes and anointing oneself, while allowing exceptions for illness or discomfort. He also addresses practical safeguards against sexual relations on Yom Kippur. Menorat HaMaor explains the readings of forbidden relationships and Jonah as reminders of repentance, highlighting Nineveh’s example of turning from wrongdoing through deeds. It concludes by connecting the final shofar blast with God’s departure and the freedom of body and soul after Yom Kippur. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BG0k5NRWd3Zs9Fo5nGowiBOaRsGN23Fw/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 17 · 16 min
The Prohibition of YK Washing | September 17th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat Haazinu, Hilchot Yom Kippur, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about replacing Temple sacrifice with prayer and study. In Parshat Haazinu, Rabbi Rubenstein examines the unusual word “afahem” and Rashi’s interpretation connecting it to peah, the corners of a field reserved for those in need. This offers a hopeful reading of a harsh passage: being placed at society’s margins can become an opportunity to care for others and find a path back to God. In Hilchot Yom Kippur, Rambam explains the prohibition against washing, while permitting washing for cleanliness, illness, ritual purity, and certain needs. He also discusses ways to cool oneself without water. Menorat HaMaor explains that although the Temple sacrifices can no longer be offered, reading about their procedures on Yom Kippur serves as a spiritual substitute. Words and study can take the place of sacrifices and bring forgiveness. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dNCWHhV2W-CJsxIImPpycaE8UJg_NkSO/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 16 · 16 min
The Hiding of God's Presence | September 16th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Haazinu, Hilchot Shevitat Asor, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and the meaning of Yom Kippur. In Haazinu, Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on the verse describing God hiding the divine presence from Israel. Drawing on Nachmanides, he explains that experiencing life without God’s presence can reveal the consequences of spiritual disconnection and inspire a return to Torah. In the Rambam’s laws of Yom Kippur, he discusses when eating may be permitted for those who are ill or dangerously hungry, emphasizing that preserving life takes precedence. He also explains how children should gradually be trained to fast. Menorat HaMaor teaches that Yom Kippur’s atonement requires genuine repentance and repairing relationships with others. Rabbi Rubenstein also highlights honoring the holy day through clean, dignified clothing, alongside fasting, prayer, charity, and repentance. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HYDHB0KJOUiZc4bnLj4FHtVtc5m2Zlgr/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 15 · 18 min
The Mitzvah of Jewish History | September 15th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parshat HaAzinu, Hilchot Sh’vitat Asor, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, restraint, and preparing for Yom Kippur. The Parashah section focuses on remembering Jewish history and God’s relationship with previous generations. Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that understanding the past helps Jews remain conscious of the covenant, while considering the future and divine accountability can also inspire teshuvah. The Rambam section explains the minimum amounts of food and drink that constitute eating and drinking on Yom Kippur. For those who cannot safely fast, eating or drinking smaller amounts at intervals may preserve the Torah prohibition while addressing health needs. Menorat HaMaor connects Yom Kippur’s timing with the abundance of the harvest and the human tendency toward indulgence. Its discussion of the two goats presents bodily desire as something to restrain and false beliefs as something to reject completely. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BDwPmDUYs3l-m1yIHLe736171rK-HkLs/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 14 · 18 min
Becoming Angels | September 14th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ha’azinu, Hilchot Yom Kippur, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about Yom Kippur as a day of purification and atonement. The episode begins with Tzom Gedalia and then turns to Ha’azinu, focusing on the heavens and earth as witnesses to Israel’s covenant with God. Their constant presence means they can witness Israel’s actions and respond when the covenant is violated. The Rambam explains that Yom Kippur requires both resting from forbidden labor and fasting. Labor violates both positive and negative commandments, while eating and drinking violate the commandment to afflict oneself; other restrictions are rabbinic. Menorat HaMaor presents Jews on Yom Kippur as resembling angels, purified from sin and living in peace. This helps explain Yom Kippur as a joyous day of forgiveness, purification, and spiritual renewal. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JbuIrAsKc0cQhu_ZLgKmRKmUkNTyj8oO/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 11 · 16 min
The Shofar Tunnel | September 11th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the second day Rosh Hashanah Torah reading, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and spiritual renewal. The Akedah concludes with God promising Abraham that his descendants will endure, overcome their enemies, and ultimately experience redemption. Ramban explains that this promise assures that although the Jewish people may suffer destruction and hardship, they will never be completely destroyed and will ultimately rise again. Rambam explains the placement of the shofar blasts within the Rosh Hashanah Musaf service. The three blessings of Malchuyot, Zichronot, and Shofarot each include verses reflecting their themes, followed by their corresponding series of shofar blasts. Menorat HaMaor teaches that the shofar is intended to awaken us to repentance and improve our deeds. Through this spiritual renewal, the shofar symbolizes God moving from judgment toward mercy and compassion. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lE_aIqCZfyqmjCb1ZP3saMCLO2WSHw8N/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 10 · 17 min
Crying and or Sighing | September 10th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the Akedah, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the meaning and symbolism of the shofar. The Parashah section examines the binding of Isaac and Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice him. Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on Rashi and Midrashic interpretations that seek to distance God from commanding the actual sacrifice, emphasizing the rabbis’ discomfort with that reading of the Torah. The Rambam section explains the required shofar blasts for Rosh Hashanah. Because of uncertainty about the precise meaning of teruah, the halachic practice incorporates tekiah, shevarim, and teruah, resulting in a minimum of thirty blasts. Menorat HaMaor presents the shofar as a reminder of the Day of Judgment and a spiritual wake-up call. It also symbolizes the future ingathering of the Jewish people and the resurrection of the dead. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YL6RQKDLl-DwtwPgZlqF1O6XzdPFOwph/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 9 · 20 min
The Satan Speaks to God | September 9th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Vayera and the Akedah, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance, self-sacrifice, and awakening the soul. The Akedah is examined through rabbinic interpretations of why God tested Abraham. One view emphasizes Abraham’s devotion to God beyond his love for Isaac, while another highlights Isaac’s willingness to sacrifice himself, showing that religious life should center on serving God rather than personal reward. The Rambam explains that when Rosh Hashanah falls on Shabbat, the shofar is generally not sounded because of the rabbinic concern that someone might carry it in the public domain. Exceptions existed when the Temple or properly ordained courts were present. Menorat HaMaor presents the shofar as a reminder of the Akedah and God’s compassion, while its broken sound awakens awe and repentance. The shofar calls us to examine our deeds, humble ourselves, and place God at the center of our lives. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1APu2NdZekuv3x3hdJrXaE_lP2FPOH5XJ/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 8 · 17 min
The Well of Seven Ewes | September 8th, 2028
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the first day of Rosh Hashanah Torah reading, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the call of the shofar to responsibility and repentance. The Parashah section examines Abraham’s pact with Avimelech over the well at Beersheba. Sforno highlights how trust, justice, and Abraham’s relationship with God shape the encounter, while Abraham’s tamarisk represents both establishing his place and creating a welcoming space. The Rambam discusses laws concerning the shofar’s length and condition, emphasizing that varied sounds remain valid. He also explains that listeners must hear the shofar rather than merely an echo, and both blower and listener need intention for the mitzvah. Menorat HaMaor presents two reasons for sounding the shofar: remembering the prophets’ warnings and remembering the Temple’s destruction. The shofar calls people to heed warnings, take responsibility, repent, and pray for protection and redemption. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1v4JR2hyAcvhiJRK3pj0pdn6J3XTaB0eH/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.
September 7 · 18 min
The Present Moment | September 7th, 2026
See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores the Rosh Hashanah Torah readings, Hilchot Shofar, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and returning to God. The Parashah section examines Hagar and Ishmael being sent into the wilderness and saved after God hears the boy’s cry. Through Rashi’s interpretation, Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that Ishmael was judged according to who he was in that moment, highlighting the importance of sincere repentance and our present actions. The Rambam section explains the Torah obligation to hear the shofar on Rosh Hashanah, why a ram’s horn is used, and requirements concerning its size, cracks, holes, additions, and sound. Menorat HaMaor presents the shofar as a warning and opportunity to repent, like a king announcing a final opportunity for pardon. It also recalls the shofar at Mount Sinai, reminding us to return to Torah and mitzvot. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1lEAcLxrYhNLHLPDMxrgDdaFLOQQzUkrv/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.

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