The Tithing Cycle | August 26, 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 repentance. The Parashah section examines the tithe cycle described in Deuteronomy 26, explaining how agricultural gifts were distributed among Kohanim, Levites, and the poor. The seven-year cycle alternated between Ma’aser Sheni, brought to Jerusalem, and Ma’aser Ani, given to those in need. The Rambam section discusses prayers associated with entering the bathroom, the Asher Yatzar blessing, and the blessings recited before Torah study. These practices express gratitude and ensure that Torah study follows the required blessing. Menorat HaMaor highlights the repentance of Ahab and David, showing that even serious wrongdoing can be forgiven through genuine teshuvah. Their examples emphasize that true repentance requires changing one’s behavior and is a path for everyone. Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PfxAQwH1w_ggOQbtw5iWnhbALUm1VuI3/view?usp=sharing Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.