Praying Before Eating | August 20, 2026

See today's text here! In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Ki Teitzei, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the accessibility and sincerity of repentance. The Me’am Loez / Parashah section examines the mitzvah to build a parapet around a roof to prevent accidents and discusses the responsibility property owners have for public safety. Rabbi Rubenstein also explores the prohibitions against mixing seeds in a vineyard and plowing with different animal species, emphasizing the Torah’s concern with maintaining distinctions between species. The Rambam section discusses restrictions on eating, working, or beginning activities before morning prayer, as well as limitations surrounding eating before Mincha. Rabbi Rubenstein explains relevant distinctions between Minhah Gedolah and Minhah Ketanah and notes the Ashkenazi leniency. Menorat HaMaor contrasts Jewish repentance with more physically demanding forms of penance, emphasizing that teshuvah requires sincere confession and remorse. Rabbi Rubenstein highlights the importance of the mouth and heart being in agreement when seeking forgiveness. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zFge5pCk6oa1ssl5SWKKa_uKXpL84kzw/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.