How to Wake Up | August 25, 2026

See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ki Tavo, Hilchot morning blessings, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about repentance and divine compassion. The Parashah section examines the Bikurim declaration and the command to rejoice in God’s goodness alongside the Levite and stranger. The sages understand this joy as communal rather than merely personal, emphasizing that religious celebration is connected to the wellbeing of the broader community. The Rambam discusses the morning blessing Elohai Neshamah and the blessings traditionally recited while performing everyday actions. Rubenstein highlights differences between Rambam and Ashkenazi practice, particularly regarding when these blessings are said. Menorat HaMaor explores repentance through the examples of Jeconiah and Adam, showing that even severe wrongdoing does not make repentance impossible. The teaching emphasizes that God’s compassion and willingness to forgive make transformation and a renewed future possible. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_KUk_RV7iowGi0fd1O_bhC7NPtjounwq/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.