Baskets of Poverty | August 24, 2026

See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ki Tavo, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the power of teshuvah. The Parashah section examines the mitzvah of bringing first fruits and reciting the declaration of gratitude and redemption. Rabbi Rubenstein focuses on the baskets, noting that the poor person’s handmade basket was kept by the Kohanim, suggesting that every sincere offering is valued and that those with less should never feel their contribution is overlooked. The Rambam discusses the bedtime blessing, which should be recited before sleep, followed by the first section of the Shema. The prayer asks for protection from evil thoughts and dreams and expresses hope for peaceful rest and awakening. Menorat HaMaor highlights God’s willingness to accept even incomplete repentance through examples including Ahab, the people of Anatot, and Nineveh. Their stories demonstrate that even the smallest movement toward teshuvah is meaningful and welcomed by God. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mDog0VeFmK1Wgo3Q2gBMNqBfdD8_j3uP/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.