Shows
Adam's TorahIs it ok to "Argue" with God in Prayer? Moshe's Prayer (Berachot 32A)101. Berachot 32A | Moshe’s Prayer & Defending Am Yisrael - Is it ok to "Argue" with God in Prayer?In this powerful shiur on Berachot 32a, we explore one of the most stunning models of tefillah in the entire Gemara: Moshe Rabbeinu’s prayer after the sin of the Golden Calf.Moshe doesn’t just “ask” Hashem for mercy — he pushes, pleads, argues, and defends Am Yisrael like the greatest leader of all time. And the Gemara reveals something deeply moving: sometimes Hashem is waiting for us to fight back in prayer — not because Hashem needs o...
2026-01-211h 15
Adam's TorahTehillim: Quality vs QuantityTehillim: Quality vs Quantity for the refuah shelema of Binyamin ben ZilpaThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2025-06-2436 minAdam's TorahPesach Haggadah: Begin with Shame and End with PraisePesach Haggadah: Begin with Shame and End with PraiseThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2024-04-0202 minAdam's TorahParashat Va'era 2023 - Passover | 10 Plagues in Mitzrayim | Freedom of Will | Names of HashemParashat Va'era 202310 Plagues in Mitzrayim - The first seven of 10 plagues are covered. Freedom of Will Names of Hashem Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2024-01-1118 minAdam's TorahParashat Shemot 2023 - Change Takes TimeParashat Shemot 2023Change Takes TimeThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2024-01-0728 minAdam's TorahParashat Shemot 2024 - The Beginnings of the Exodus StoryParashat Shemot 2024 - TorahThe Beginnings of the Exodus StoryThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2024-01-0516 minAdam's TorahTorah Parashat Shofetim 2023 | Law & Order | Honesty & Integrity | Pursue Righteousness | KingsTorah Parashat Shofetim 2023 Law & Order Honesty & Integrity Pursue Righteousness KingsThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-08-2022 minAdam's TorahParashat Re'eh 2023 - Living within Your Means, Kosher and Self-Discipline, Charity, & Refreshing Your SoulParashat Re'eh 2023Living within Your MeansKosher and Self-DisciplineCharity Refreshing Your SoulThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-08-1325 minAdam's TorahParashat Ekev 2023 - Count Your Blessings, Remembering our Humble Past, It's All for Our Own BestTorah Parashat Ekev 2023 Count Your Blessings Remembering our Humble PastIt's All for Our Own BestThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-08-0623 minAdam's TorahParashat Matot Masei 2023 - Vows & Oaths, Bilaam, Reuven's and Gad's Request, Naming our JourneysParashat Matot Masei 2023Laws of Vows and OathsThe Return of BilaamReuven's and Gad's RequestNaming the Chapters of our JourneysThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-07-1626 minAdam's TorahParashat Pinchas 2023 - Pinchas's Response, Zelophchad's Daughters, and Moshe's Final RequestTorah Parashat Pinchas 2023 Pinchas's Response & Reward Zelophchad's Daughters and their claim Moshe's Final Request Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-07-0928 minAdam's TorahParashat Shelach 2023 - The Spies and the Nation's ResponseParashat Shelach 2023 - The Spies and the Nation's ResponseThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-06-1823 minAdam's TorahThe Story of Ruth: A Story of Kindness and Loyalty - ShavuotThe Story of RuthA Story of Kindness and Loyalty - ShavuotThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-05-2829 minAdam's TorahParashat Acharei Mot Kedoshim 2023Parashat Acharei Mot Kedoshim 2023Yom Kippur ServiceVerbal ConfessionLove Others as You Love YourselfTechniques of Eliminating Bad HabitsThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-04-3024 minAdam's TorahParashat Tazria Metzora 2021 - Tzara'atParashat Tazria Metzora 2021 Overview Tzara'atScreen sharing available on the Youtube pageThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-04-2429 minAdam's TorahParashat Shemini 2023 - Aaron's Sons & The Laws of KosherParashat Shemini 2023 overviewAaron's Sons, Nadav & AvihuThe Laws of KosherScreen sharing available on the Youtube pageThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-04-1626 minAdam's TorahParashat Vayikra 2021Parashat Vayikra overview.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-2225 minAdam's TorahThe Purim Story - Esther - Week 4 of 4Week 4 of the Megillat Esther Series, as part of the SBM Ladies ProgramThe entire series playlist is saved on YouTube and can be found here:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlVtEqmIBUogYVG6kU5htGYMJwK97cx2cThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-1951 minAdam's TorahVayakhel Pekudei 2023Parashat Vayakhel Pekudei overview. Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-1913 minAdam's TorahKi Tisa 2023Parashat Ki Tisa overview. The full video with screensharing can be found on the YouTube channel.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-1223 minAdam's TorahTetzaveh 2023Parashat Tetzaveh overview. The full video with screensharing can be found on the YouTube channel.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-0519 minAdam's TorahNEW - Rebranding as Adam's Torah!We are rebranding the Sefer Hamitzvot Podcast to Adam's Torah. We will continue with the Sefer Hamitzvot series, but we will also upload additional content. Please reach out if you have any ideas or suggestions, or would like to help out in any way.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-0301 minAdam's TorahMegillat Esther - Week 1Week 1 of the Megillat Esther Series, as part of the SBM Ladies ProgramFebruary 9, 2023The entire series playlist is saved on YouTube and can be found here:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlVtEqmIBUogYVG6kU5htGYMJwK97cx2cThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2023-03-0343 minAdam's TorahPositive #64 - To Cancel Debts in the Shemita YearPositive mitzvah #64 is to cancel all debts in the shemita year.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-11-1704 minAdam's TorahPositive #63 - To Return a Collateral to a Borrower when NeededPositive mitzvah #63 is to return a collateral to a borrower when needed.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-08-3104 minAdam's TorahPositive #62 - To Lend Money to the PoorPositive mitzvah #62 is to lend money to the poor.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-08-1902 minAdam's TorahPositive #61 - To Love a ConvertPositive mitzvah #61 is to love a convert.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-08-1802 minAdam's TorahPositive #60 - To Love Your Fellow as YourselfPositive mitzvah #60 is to love your fellow as yourself.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-08-1204 minAdam's TorahPositive #59 - For a Kohen to Attend a Relative's FuneralPositive mitzvah #59 is for a Kohen to attend a relative's funeral. In this context, the seven relatives are: wife, mother, father, son, daughter, brother, and sister.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-07-2608 minAdam's TorahPositive #58 - For the Kohen to Bless the Jewish PeoplePositive mitzvah #58 is for the Kohen to bless the Jewish people daily.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-07-1405 minAdam's TorahPositive #57 - To Separate Challah, or a Portion of Your DoughPositive mitzvah #57 is to separate challah, or the first portion from your dough, and give it to a Kohen.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-07-0106 minAdam's TorahPositive #56 - To Break the Neck of the Unredeemed Firstborn DonkeyPositive mitzvah #56 is to break the neck of the unredeemed firstborn donkey.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-06-2404 minAdam's TorahPositive #55 - To Redeem the Firstborn DonkeyPositive mitzvah #55 is to redeem the firstborn donkey with a sheep or a goat.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-06-2103 minAdam's TorahPositive #54 - To Redeem the Firstborn SonPositive mitzvah #54 is to redeem the firstborn son, referred to as a pidyon haben.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-06-0907 minAdam's TorahPositive #53 - To Sanctify the FirstbornPositive mitzvah #53 is to sanctify the firstborn. For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-06-0907 minAdam's TorahPositive #52 - To Give a Kohen the First of the Sheep's WoolIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #52, which is to give a Kohen the first of your sheep's wool shearings. For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-06-0304 minAdam's TorahPositive #51 - To Give a Kohen the Foreleg, Cheeks and MawIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #51, which is to give a Kohen the foreleg, cheeks and maw of an animal when doing shechita. For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-06-0209 minAdam's TorahPositive #50 - To Honor a KohenIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #50, which is to honor a Kohen and treat him as holy. For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-05-3005 minAdam's TorahPositive #49 - To Cover the Blood of an Animal after SlaughteringIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #49, which is to cover the blood of an animal after slaughtering it, if one wishes to eat meat. This mitzvah is related to positive mitzvah #48.For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-05-2607 minAdam's TorahPositive #48 - To Slaughter an Animal Properly (if one wishes to eat meat)In this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #48, which is to slaughter an animal properly, if one wishes to eat meat.Five forbidden techniques:1) Shehiyah (שהייה; delay or pausing) 2) Derasah (דרסה; pressing/chopping)3) Haladah (חלדה; covering, digging, or burying)4) Hagramah (הגרמה; cutting in the wrong location)5) Iqqur (עיקור; tearing)For questions, email: mitzvotpodcast@gmail.comThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-05-2509 minAdam's TorahPositive #47 - To Circumcise Every MaleIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #47, which is to circumcise every male, beginning at the age of eight days old.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-05-2404 minAdam's TorahPositive #46 - To Perform Chalitza, an Alternative to YibumIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #46, which is to perform chalitza, which is an alternative to yibum (levirate marriage).Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-05-2009 minAdam's TorahPositive #45 - To Perform Yibum or Levirate MarriageIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #45, which is to perform yibum, or levirate marriage.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-04-1905 minAdam's TorahPositive #44 - To Get Married Through KiddushinIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #44, which is to get married through a process called kiddushin.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-04-1804 minAdam's TorahPositive #43 - To Marry and Have ChildrenIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #43, which is to marry and have children.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-04-0805 minAdam's TorahPositive #42 - To Respect One's ParentsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #42, which is to respect one's father and mother.As a general rule, honoring one's parents (positive mitzvah #41) is all of the the positive acts one does to show honor to his or her parents. Examples include, standing up for them when they enter the room, helping them around physically, bringing things for them, etc.Continuing with that framework, respecting is all of the negative things one refrains from doing to show respect to his or her parents. Examples include, not sitting or standing in their designated spots, not...
2022-04-0307 minAdam's TorahPositive #41 - To Honor One's ParentsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #41, which is to honor one's father and mother.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-03-3005 minAdam's TorahPositive #40 - To Nullify Vows or OathsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #40, which is to deal with cases of nullifying vows or oaths.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-03-2305 minAdam's TorahPositive #39 - To Fulfill Your Vows or OathsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #39, which is to fulfill your vows or oaths.This mitzvah is to keep your promises. We have the ability to create other mitzvot, simply by promising to do something.This applies to both vows ("nedarim") and oaths ("shevuot"):Vows are typically on an item or objectOaths are typically related to an action that the person will doThis distinction is explained more in the podcastThanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2022-03-2105 minAdam's TorahPositive #38 - To Give Charity to the PoorIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #38, which is to give charity to the poor.This mitzvah to give charity is known as giving "tzedaka."The Rambam (Maimonides, or Moshe ben Maimon) (born approx. 1135 CE / died 1204 CE) compiled a list of the eight levels of charity, starting with the highest and most ideal form of charity, working his way down the list in descending order. In this episode, we go through the Rambam's eight levels of charity in detail.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more...
2022-02-2308 minAdam's TorahPositive #37 - To Rest from Work on Shemini AtzeretIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #37, which is to rest from work on the holiday of Shemini Atzeret.This mitzvah applies to the 22nd day of Tishrei (the seventh month of the year). This is the day immediately after the last and seventh day of Sukkot. Outside of Israel, it also applies to 23rd day of Tishrei.It is called the "eighth day," because it is the day after the seventh day of Sukkot. However, it is a completely distinct holiday from Sukkot.Other than the date, this mitzvah is identical to positive mitzvah #25, which is to...
2022-02-1805 minAdam's TorahPositive #36 - To Take the Four Species During SukkotIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #36, which is to take the four species during the holiday of Sukkot.What are the four species?Citron / etrogPalm tree branch / lulavMyrtle branches / hadasimWillow branches / aravotWhen does this mitzvah apply?This mitzvah applies during daytime only, not at night.In the Beit Hamikdash, it applies to all seven days of Sukkot. Elsewhere, the Biblical obligation is only on the first day of Sukkot. (Sukkot is the seven-day holiday that begins on the 15th day of Tishrei.)However, after the destruction of the Beit Hamikdash, our Sages enacted that everyone should take t...
2022-02-1706 minAdam's TorahPositive #35 - To Dwell in a Sukkah During SukkotIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #35, which is to dwell in a sukkah during the holiday of Sukkot.What is a sukkah?It is a hut or a booth, with a minimum of three walls and a roof of sechach, made of branches. In the podcast, we discuss additional details. When is the holiday of Sukkot?Beginning on the 15th day of Tishrei, lasting for seven days, through the end of the 21st day of TishreiThere is an additional requirement to eat bread specifically in the sukkah on the first night of Sukkot. Outside of Israel, this a...
2022-02-1107 minAdam's TorahPositive #34 - To Rest from Work on the First Day of SukkotIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #34, which is rest from work on the first day of Sukkot.This mitzvah applies to the 15th day of Tishrei (the seventh month of the year). Outside of Israel, it also applies to the second day of Sukkot, or the 16th day of Tishrei.This holiday is 5 days after Yom Kippur.Other than the date, this mitzvah is identical to positive mitzvah #25, which is to rest from work on the first day of Passover. Similar to the first day of Pesach, food related melachot (work activities) are permitted on th...
2022-02-1002 minAdam's TorahPositive #33 - To Repent and To Confess One's SinsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #33, which is to repent and to confess one's sins.When a man or a woman commits a sin, when they want to repent or do what's called teshuva, they should verbally confess their sin. The confession doesn't have to be in public, but it can be in private, between the person and God alone.In the podcast, we discussed a sample text of confession, as formulated by our SagesThere are four components of teshuva gemura, or complete repentance:verbal confession of the sinstopping to do the sin (present)regretting h...
2022-02-0909 minAdam's TorahPositive #32 - To Fast on Yom KippurIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #32, which is to fast on the holiday of Yom Kippur.This mitzvah applies to the 10th day of Tishrei (the seventh month of the year). The Torah states that we should "afflict" our souls on Yom Kippur. Our Sages interpret that to mean that we should fast, that is no food or drink.There are four additional afflictions: No marital relations are forbiddenNo wearing leather shoesNo washing or bathingNo anointing oneself with oilsIt is a matter of dispute whether these four additional activities are prohibited at the same Torah level as fa...
2022-02-0906 minAdam's TorahPositive #31 - To Rest from Work on Yom KippurIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #31, which is to rest from work on the holiday of Yom Kippur.This mitzvah applies to the 10th day of Tishrei (the seventh month of the year). Similar to Shabbat, the mitzvah is to rest from all melachot (work activities). The podcast on positive mitzvah #20 delves deeper into this topic and defines the prohibited melachot .Yom Kippur is a day of atonement. On this day, we introspect, review our actions, and ask for forgiveness - both from God and from other people. On this day, we make commitments to improve our a...
2022-02-0404 minAdam's TorahPositive #30 - To Hear the Sound of the Shofar on Rosh HashanaIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #30, which is to hear the sound of the Shofar on Rosh Hashana.This mitzvah applies to the 1st day of Tishrei (the seventh month of the year), beginning at sunrise. Both inside and outside of Israel, the Sages extended this holiday for a second day, so it is observed on the 1st and 2nd days of Tishrei.A shofar is a ram's horn.In the podcast, we delve into the various sounds of the shofar and comprehensively list all the shofar blasts that are incorporated in our prayers.T...
2022-02-0209 minAdam's TorahPositive #29 - To Rest from Work on Rosh HashanaIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #29, which is rest from work on the holiday of Rosh Hashana.This mitzvah applies to the 1st day of Tishrei (the seventh month of the year). Both inside and outside of Israel, the Sages extended this holiday for a second day, so it is observed on the 1st and 2nd days of TishreiSimilar to other yamim tovim, food related melachot (work activities) are permitted, which is referred to as ochel nefesh. The podcast on positive mitzvah #25 delves deeper into this topic.Based on our tradition, Rosh Hashana i...
2022-01-2603 minAdam's TorahPositive #28 - To Rest from Work on ShavuotIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #28, which is rest from work on the holiday of Shavuot.This mitzvah applies to the 6th day of Sivan (the third month of the year). Outside of Israel, it also applies to the 7th day of Sivan.Other than the date, this mitzvah is identical to positive mitzvah #25, which is to rest from work on the first day of Passover. Similar to the first day of Pesach, food related melachot (work activities) are permitted on Shavuot, which is referred to as ochel nefesh. Shavuot is the 50th day...
2022-01-2504 minAdam's TorahPositive #27 - To Rest from Work on the Seventh Day of PassoverIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #27, which is rest from work on the Seventh Day of Passover.This mitzvah applies to the 21st day of Nissan, which is the seventh day of Passover. Outside of Israel, it also applies to the 22nd day of Nissan.Other than the date, this mitzvah is identical to positive mitzvah #25, which is to rest from work on the first day of Passover. Similar to the first day of Pesach, food related melachot (work activities) are permitted on the seventh day of Pesach, which is referred to as ochel ne...
2022-01-2405 minAdam's TorahPositive #26 - To Count 49 Days of the Sefirat Ha'OmerIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #26, which is count the 49 days, or the seven weeks, of the Sefirat Ha'Omer. The mitzvah is to count both the days and the weeks. For example, on the 20th day of the Sefirat Ha'Omer, one would say: "Today is the 20th day of the Omer, which is 2 weeks and 6 days."This is because there are two verses in the Torah: one to count weeks and another to count days. Therefore, we count both the days and weeks.The mitzvah to count begins on the evening of the 16th day o...
2022-01-2105 minAdam's TorahPositive #25 - To Rest from Work on the First Day of PassoverIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #25, which is rest from work on the First Day of Passover.This mitzvah applies to the 15th day of Nissan, which is the first day of Passover. Outside of Israel, it also applies to the second day of Passover.This mitzvah is similar to positive mitzvah #20, which is to rest from work on Shabbat. However, there is one very important difference - food related melachot (work activities) are permitted on the first day of Pesach, which is referred to as ochel nefesh. For example, one is allowed t...
2022-01-2107 minAdam's TorahPositive #24 - To Tell About the Exodus from Egypt on the First Night of PassoverIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #24, which is to tell about the Exodus from Egypt on the first night of Passover, which is the evening of the 15th of Nissan.The mitzvah is to tell over the story of Exodus from Egypt, from beginning to end, with as many details as possible. This mitzvah applies even to people who already know the story. The more, the better!This mitzvah applies on the evening of 15th day of Nissan, which is the first night of Passover. Outside of Israel, it also applies to the second night of Passover...
2022-01-1208 minAdam's TorahPositive #23 - To Eat Matzah on the First Night of PassoverIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #23, which is to eat matzah on the first night of Passover, which is the evening of the 15th of Nissan.Matzah is unleavened bread, which is when one of the five grains (wheat, barley, spelt, oats, rye) are mixed with water and baked in less than 18 minutes. The matzah is not given enough time to rise.This mitzvah applies on the evening of 15th day of Nissan, which is the first night of Passover. Outside of Israel, it also applies to the second night of Passover.Before eating the matzah, there...
2022-01-0604 minAdam's TorahPositive #22 - To Remove Chametz from Your PossessionIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #22, which is to remove chametz from your possession on the 14th day of Nissan.Chametz is when one of the five grains (wheat, barley, oat, spelt, rye) are mixed with water and left to rise for at least 18 minutes.One can remove chametz by eating, destroying it, throwing it out, or declaring it as ownerless.The deadline for this mitzva is the 14th day on the month of Nissan at midday.The Sages made the deadline one hour earlier, so that people don't leave it for the last minuteThe Sages instituted...
2022-01-0604 minAdam's TorahPositive #21 - To Be Happy During the HolidaysIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #21, which is to be happy during the Holidays of Pesach (Passover), Shavuot, and Sukkut.During the times of the Beit HaMikdash, one would offer an additional sacrifice, which would mostly be eaten by its owners. This was a way of partaking in an enjoyable meals.Nowadays, in the absence of the Beit HaMikdash, one fulfills this mitzva by eating enjoyable foods and drinks, such as meat and wine.A man should buy his wife a gift to increase her happiness on the Holiday, such as clothing.Parents should buy t...
2022-01-0406 minAdam's TorahPositive #20 - To Rest from Work on ShabbatIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #20, which is rest from work on Shabbat.This positive mitzva has a corresponding negative mitzva of "not to work on Shabbat."Work is referred to as melacha, or melachot in plural.At a high level, a melacha is defined as an activity performed in the construction of the Mishkan, or the traveling Temple that the Jewish people had in the desert.There are also many subcategories, which were not necessarily performed in the construction of the Mishkan, but they are similar enough to be considered a melacha.There are 39 m...
2022-01-0304 minAdam's TorahPositive #19 - To Declare Shabbat as HolyIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #19, which is declare Shabbat as holy with words.We verbally declare Shabbat as holy (1) at its beginning, through kiddush, and (2) at its end, through havdala. The Prophet & Sages added two rabbinic ways of fulfilling this mitzva, by (3) preparing for Shabbat and (4) enjoying it.Kiddush (beginning of Shabbat)At the beginning of Shabbat, we declare Shabbat as a holy day ("mekadesh haShabbat")Typically said with a cup of wine, before having a special mealHavdala (end of Shabbat)At the end of Shabbat, we...
2021-12-2804 minAdam's TorahPositive #18 - To Respect the TempleIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #18, which is respect or to fear the Beit HaMikdash, or the Temple.This mitzva applies to the portable Temple in the desert, known as the Mishkan, as well as to the Temple built in Jerusalem, known as the Beit HaMikdash. Examples of how to fear the Temple include:Not entering with shoes or dirty feetNot using it as a shortcutCertain areas were off limit to some peopleEven after the Beit HaMikdash was destroyed, one must conduct themselves with the same respect in the place of the Beit HaMikdash in...
2021-12-2705 minAdam's TorahPositive #17 - To Stand Before Elders and Torah ScholarsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #17, which is to stand before elders and Torah scholars, or talmideh chachamim.Elderly are defined as a 70-year-old.A Torah Scholar (talmid chacham) is one who is knowledgeable in Torah.One should stand when the elder or talmid chacham walks within 6 feet of the person, and he or she can sit back down once they pass by.For a "Rav Muvhak", or someone's main Rabbi from whom one learned majority of their Torah, one should stand as the Rav Muvhak enters one's eyesightThere are two opinions as to how m...
2021-12-2306 minAdam's TorahPositive #16 - To Attach Oneself to Torah ScholarsIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #16, which is to attach oneself to Torah scholars and their students, also known as talmideh chachamim. Torah scholars and talmideh chachamim as serving as the ambassadors of Hashem in this world. There are several ways to fulfill this mitzva:Attending their Torah classes to learn from themInviting them to one's homes Eating meals with themMarrying into their families and marrying off one's children into their familiesBuilding personal relationships with the Rabbis and Torah scholarsA fringe benefit of spending time with talmideh chachamim is that one w...
2021-12-2303 minAdam's TorahPositive #15 - To Write a Torah ScrollIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #15, which is to write a Torah scroll.There are several ways to fulfill this mitzva:One should actually write the Torah scroll. Purchase a Torah scroll or hire someone to write it on your behalfTo edit / fix a Torah scroll by correcting even one errorPurchase Torah books, which will enable one to study Torah (positive #14)This option is the opinion of Rabbenu Asher ("Rosh", c. 1250 - 1327)Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@a...
2021-12-2105 minAdam's TorahPositive #14 - To Study and Teach TorahIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #14, which is to learn Torah and teach Torah."Ve'shinantam" - "Teach [the Torah] repeatedly" The Torah should be studied repeatedly, not just onceOne should strive to be able to answer any question on the Torah, without any hesitation"Le'vanecha" - "to your children"This mitzvah also requires one to teach Torah their children If one cannot teach Torah themselves, they are required to ensure the child will receive a proper Torah education, for example through Jewish schools or tutors. "Yomam va'Layla" - day and nightAt a minimum, a person sho...
2021-12-2106 minAdam's TorahPositive #13 - To Recite a Blessing After Eating FoodIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #13, which is to recite a blessing after eating food. This after-meal blessing is referred to as birkat hamazon.Structure of Birkat HamazonMade up of four blessings: Hashem sustains everyone and everythingThanking Hashem for the landPraying for Yerushalayim and the Beit HamikdashDeclaring that Hashem is good and does good for others (this fourth blessing was added later in history, after we received access to the city of Beitar)What foods require Birkat Hamazon?BreadOther foods require shorter after-blessings, depending on the type of foodHow much food must one eat to be required t...
2021-12-1606 minAdam's TorahPositive #12 - To Place a Mezuza on the Doorposts of our EntrancesIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #12, which is to place a mezuza on the doorposts of our entrances. What is a mezuza? A scroll / parchment with the first two paragraphs of the Shema Yisrael written on in.What is the proper placement of the mezuza?On the right doorpost when entering the homeThe height should be about a third of the way down on the doorpostShould be placed on every doorpost in the home, except for a room that is dirty such as a bathroomThere are different customs with respect to the angle: some place it...
2021-12-1605 minAdam's TorahPositive #11 - To Recite Shema Yisrael Twice Daily, Every Morning and EveningIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #11, which is to recite the Shema Yisrael, once in the morning and once in the evening, every day.What are the components of Shema Yisrael?Paragraph #1 - "Shema & Ve'ahavta" - Accepting HashemParagraph #2 - "Vehaya" - Accepting to fulfill Hashem's mitvotParagraph #3 - "Vayomer" - Remembering the Exodus from EgyptWhen are the required times to recite Shema Yisrael?Morning - within 3 hours of sunriseEvening - beginning 30 minutes after sunset, before midnightWe also have the custom to recite Shema before going to sleep.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe...
2021-12-1406 minAdam's TorahPositive #10 - To Place Tzitzit on the Corners of Our ClothingIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #10, which is to place tzitzit, or strings / fringes, on the corners of our clothing. If one has an article of clothing with four corners, this mitzvah is to place tzitzit on those corners.MaterialsFrom the Torah, this applies to clothing made out of wool or made out of linen. For other materials, such as cotton, there is a Rabbinic requirement to place tzitzit on them, but not from the Torah. Different types of tzitzit & their blessings"Tallit", or "Tallit Gadol", or Prayer Shawl, which is worn during the morning te...
2021-12-1006 minAdam's TorahPositive #8 and #9 - To Wear Tefillin on One's Arm and HeadIn this episode, we learn two positive mitzvot. Mitzvah #8 is to wear tefillin on one's arm. Mitzvah #9 is to wear tefillin on one's head.These are two distinct mitzvot, but given their similar nature, they are grouped together in this episode.We discussed three topics related to the tefillin:Placement of the TefillinTefillin of the arm should be placed on the bicep of the non-dominant armTefillin of the head should be line up between one's eyes, placed above the hairlineContents of the TefillinFour passages or paragraphs of the Torah are written on scrolls, placed wi...
2021-12-0906 minAdam's TorahPositive #7 - To Pray to Hashem Every DayIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #7, which is to pray to Hashem every day.The Talmud (Ta'anit 2a) explains that prayer, or tefila, is the service of the heart.The Rambam explains that there are three components, or building blocks, to prayer:1) Praises2) Requests3) ThanksIndeed, this is how the main prayer, or tefila, is structured. When praying, one should clear his or her mind and concentrate on their words. Prayer is a self-reflective exercise, in which we remind ourselves what is most important to us. F...
2021-12-0705 minAdam's TorahPositive #6 - To Emulate Hashem's WaysIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #6, which is to emulate Hashem's ways, or to walk in the ways of Hashem. How do we know what the attributes of God are? There are two groups:The Torah explicitly states several of God's attributes:"Hashem is merciful" - this is referring to Hashem giving us the opportunity to repent and improve our actions, and ultimately forgiving us"Hashem is compassionate" - Similar to being merciful, Hashem often delays punishments for an extended amount of time, sometimes even years, to give us plenty opportunities t...
2021-12-0605 minAdam's TorahPositive #5 - To Sanctify Hashem in PublicIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #5, which is to sanctify Hashem in public. There are three ways to fulfill this mitzvah of sanctifying Hashem:By acting properly and serving as a good representative of the Torah. When someone is Torah observant , others will view that person as a representative of Hashem's Torah. Thus, when a Torah observant person acts properly, that will in turn be sanctifying HashemBy proclaiming Hashem as holy in our prayers with a group of people. We say this as part of Nakdishach / Keter, when saying "kadosh kadosh kadosh"By being willing t...
2021-12-0305 minAdam's TorahPositive #4 - To Fear & Respect HashemIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #4, which is to fear and respect Hashem. How can one demonstrate his or her fear of God? When one is in a position that he or she can do something wrong and no one will ever know, for example, behind closed doors -- if one refrains from sinning and chooses to act properly, that is a way of expressing fear & respect of God.The two additional ways to fulfill this mitzvah:Respecting Hashem's name by not using it in vainRespecting Torah ScholarsConcise Book of Mitzvot (Amazon li...
2021-12-0103 minAdam's TorahPositive #3 - To Love HashemIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #3, which is to love Hashem. The two ways to fulfill this mitzvah:Studying Hashem's creations and His Torah brings us to a better understanding Hashem, which leads us to love HimTalking to others about Hashem's creations and His Torah expresses our love for HimConcise Book of Mitzvot (Amazon link)The Commandments Which Can Be Observed Today - English and Hebrew Edition, pocket size, hardcoverDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
2021-11-3003 minAdam's TorahPositive #2 - Hashem is OneIn this episode, we learn positive mitzvah #2, which is the belief that Hashem is one. He is non-physical and is not made up of parts.Concise Book of Mitzvot (Amazon link)The Commandments Which Can Be Observed Today - English and Hebrew Edition, pocket size, hardcoverDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the podcast and the YouTube channel for more content:https://www.youtube.com/@adamstorah
2021-11-3004 minAdam's TorahIntro & Positive #1 - Belief in HashemIn this episode, we give a brief intro to the Concise Book of Mitzvot, authored by the Chafetz Chayim. We also learn positive mitzvah #1, which is the belief in Hashem.Podcast Link: https://seferhamitzvot.buzzsprout.com/Concise Book of Mitzvot (Amazon link)The Commandments Which Can Be Observed Today - English and Hebrew Edition, pocket size, hardcoverDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thanks for listening! Please subscribe to the...
2021-11-2604 min