Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe

In the fifth episode of his 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explores Be-ayma — “with awe” (Yirah in its elevated sense). Building on the previous steps (study, listening, speaking, and heartfelt understanding), he teaches that awe elevates us beyond ordinary living. Awe is not mere fear but a reverential wonder and respect that arises when we contemplate the majesty of Hashem: the vastness of galaxies, the power of oceans and storms, the intricacy of the human body, fruits, vegetables, sunsets, and the Torah scroll itself.

Rabbi Wolbe explains that living with awe lifts us out of pettiness, laziness, ruts, and even depression. It unleashes hidden potential and gives us perspective. He encourages concretizing “wow” moments — family events, spiritual highs — so we can recall them on difficult days. Awe includes marveling at human achievement (such as SpaceX rocket launches and landings) and especially at our role as links in the eternal chain of Judaism, connecting us to Moses, Aaron, Joshua, and all the sages.

Additional insights: awe results from seeing potential actualized (in people, projects, or Torah growth); meeting righteous individuals leaves us inspired (he recalls learning with his rabbi, Rav Barel Eisenstein, feeling as if he had been with an angel). On Yom HaShoah, he shares Rav Shach’s powerful message to Rav Noah Weinberg: if one person can destroy six million lives, one person can also bring six million back to life — the mission of outreach organizations like TORCH. He notes that excess laughter or comedy can dull awe, while just five minutes a day contemplating the world’s awesomeness can transform a life forever.

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Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio B on April 28,  2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on May 2, 2022

The 49 days we count between Pesach (Passover) and Shavuot are an exciting time for powerful and impactful change. The Mishna (Avot 6:6) teaches us 48 masterful tools and ways to maximize life and get the most out of each day.
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About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org

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Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #Listening, #WisdomDaily