Best Michoel Brooke Podcasts (2025)

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Parshas Pinchas: What Your Rabbi Isn't Telling You About Reality 27:07

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6d ago27:07

27:07

What if the Torah isn't just a set of divine rules, but the actual software that runs our universe? Rabbi Aaron Lopiansky's revolutionary 8-minute discourse from 5779 (2018-2019) offers a perspective that transforms our understanding of reality itself. Starting with a famous dispute between Talmudic sages Rava and Abaye about prohibited actions, Ra…

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Morning Discipline: How Jews Snatch Mitzvos at Dawn 4:48

8d ago4:48

4:48

Are you pressing snooze or snatching mitzvot? In Bilaam's poetic description of the Jewish people, he praises them as those who "rise like a lioness" and "leap up like a lion." This powerful metaphor reveals profound wisdom about how we approach each morning and, consequently, our entire lives. The Midrash explains that this lion-like rising refers…

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Parshas Balak: Do You Know What Color Your Friend's Kitchen Cabinets Are? 30:16

13d ago30:16

30:16

What inspires an enemy to offer praise? Bilaam, the infamous non-Jewish prophet whose prophetic abilities rivaled those of Moshe, was hired to curse the Jewish people. Yet, instead of curses, he delivered words so powerful that they became part of our daily prayers: “How goodly are your tents, O Jacob.” As he gazed upon the Israelite encampment, Bi…

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The Unpopular Path: What Moshe's Funeral Teaches Us About Authentic Leadership 4:26

16d ago4:26

4:26

The litmus test of authentic leadership isn't popularity – it's principled action in the face of opposition. This profound insight comes from the Maharal Diskin's analysis of a subtle textual difference in how the Torah describes the deaths of Moses and Aaron. When Aaron died, the Torah specifically mentions that "all the children of Israel" mourne…

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What My Daughter's Resistance Taught Me About Hashem’s Love 3:27

22d ago3:27

3:27

A simple moment of negotiating with my four-year-old daughter about wearing her seatbelt transformed into a profound spiritual revelation about God's desire to reward us for even the most basic actions. When my wife gently corrected my offering rewards for basic tasks, I realized this mirrors how God relates to us—creating numerous mitzvot not as b…

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Parshas Korach: The Sad Bald Egg 29:49

27d ago29:49

29:49

What drives a distinguished leader to rebel against divine authority? In Parshat Korach, we discover a fascinating psychological insight that resonates powerfully in modern life. Korach wasn't merely challenging leadership—he was struggling with a profound identity crisis. After being ritually shaved "bald as an egg" and rendered temporarily unreco…

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Parshas Shelach: White Teeth in a Dog Carcass 33:20

1M ago33:20

33:20

What if the secret to a fulfilled life isn't about changing your circumstances, but shifting your perspective? This profound exploration of ancient wisdom reveals how our outlook determines our happiness more than any external reality. Through the biblical story of the twelve spies, we witness how identical circumstances produced radically differen…

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Why God Chose the Smallest Mountain & Uncle Moishy 4:54

1M ago4:54

4:54

Have you ever caught yourself dismissing the Jewish lessons you learned as a child? Those Uncle Moishe songs and "simple" Torah stories might contain more wisdom than we give them credit for. The mountains competed for God's attention. Mount Tabor and Mount Carmel—majestic, impressive peaks—proudly proclaimed their worthiness to host the giving of …

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Parshas Behaaloscha: Following the Cloud & Enjoying the Ride of a Hectic Life 27:13

1M ago27:13

27:13

The divine cloud that guided the Israelites through the wilderness wasn't just a navigational tool—it was a profound teacher of faith, resilience and cheerful obedience. Drawing from Nachmanides' golden commentary, we unpack the extraordinary discipline shown by our ancestors who followed God's cloud through every hardship with unwavering trust. Im…

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Traffic on the Path to Truth 4:03

1M ago4:03

4:03

Truth has a magnetic pull. It draws seekers from different paths toward the same destination—a phenomenon beautifully illustrated in Parshas Nasso through the identical offerings of the twelve tribal princes. Why does the Torah, known for its linguistic economy where even decorative crowns on letters contain volumes of meaning, suddenly devote exte…

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Reclaiming Your Youthful Spirit: Lessons from the Brisker Rav 3:45

1M ago3:45

3:45

The wisdom of children's unbridled joy holds a secret we adults have forgotten. While watching his kids play outdoors, our host recalls a powerful story about the Heilige Briskerov (Rabbi Yitzchak Zev Soloveitchik) that fundamentally challenges how we approach our lives. Sitting on a porch observing children cartwheel and play with rambunctious ene…

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Parshas Nasso: ONE HIT WONDER! 25:12

2M ago25:12

25:12

The paradox of the Nazarite vow presents one of Judaism's most fascinating spiritual riddles - why would someone who successfully fulfills a voluntary commitment to holiness need to bring a sin offering? Through a masterful analysis of Nachmanides' commentary, we unpack this contradiction to reveal a profound truth about human potential: once we de…

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Celebrating Shavuos: A Guide to Authentic Happiness Without Overthinking 5:33

2M ago5:33

5:33

Ready for a refreshing take on Shavuos celebration? Forget the overwhelming details and embrace a simpler approach to this profound holiday. The cornerstone of a meaningful Shavuos lies in embracing Simchas Yontif—holiday joy—as a biblical commandment according to the Shagas Aryeh. This means practical, tangible actions: giving your spouse the cred…

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Ten Facets of Shavuos: A Spiritual Smorgasbord 36:26

2M ago36:26

36:26

What transforms an ordinary person into someone extraordinary? On this Shavuos-themed episode, we dive deep into the holiday's multifaceted spiritual landscape through ten distinct perspectives that reveal why this festival matters profoundly to your life. Shavuos isn't merely about cheesecake and all-night learning—it's about how Torah fundamental…

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When God Becomes Your Only Hope: Lessons from The Netziv on Divine Trust 3:53

2M ago3:53

3:53

Rabbi Naftali Tzvi Yehuda Berlin (1816-1893), known as the Netziv, stands among the luminaries who guided Jewish thought during challenging times in the Diaspora. From his position as Rosh Yeshiva of the famed Volozhin Yeshiva, his brilliant Torah commentary Ha'emik Davar captured not just his extraordinary knowledge of Talmud but his profound unde…

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Parshas Behar - Bechukosai: Courting the Living Torah 24:38

2M ago24:38

24:38

Have you ever considered that Torah might be alive, seeking relationship with those who truly cherish it? This groundbreaking perspective transforms our understanding of what it means to "toil in Torah." At the heart of Parshas Bechukosai lies a divine promise of abundance – timely rain, bountiful crops, peace, health, and prosperity. The condition…

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The Rich Rabbi's Dilemma 4:45

2M ago4:45

4:45

Looking at your new yacht or considering that gold-plated bathroom fixture? Judaism has something profound to say about luxury and wealth through the ancient practice of Sefirat HaOmer. This episode dives into the philosophical foundations of counting the Omer, revealing a revolutionary perspective on prosperity that challenges both extreme materia…

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Parshas Emor: Kiddush Hashem and Seven Hidden Dimensions of Sanctifying God's Name 34:22

2M ago34:22

34:22

The sanctification of God's name stands as Judaism's most profound obligation—a mitzvah that transcends mere religious observance to become the very embodiment of what it means to be Jewish. Through an exploration of Parshat Emor, we discover that Kiddush Hashem goes far beyond the dramatic act of martyrdom most commonly associated with it. Did you…

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Setting Boundaries: Why Children Need Limits for a Thriving Jewish Life 3:24

2M ago3:24

3:24

A rabbi shares a heartbreaking conversation with a father who proudly claimed he never said "no" to his child, revealing how this approach endangers the child's Jewish future. Without boundaries, children cannot develop respect for mitzvot or understand the concept of kedusha (holiness). • The juxtaposition in Parshas Kedoshim between "be holy" and…

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The Power of Honest Questions and Second Chances: Lessons from Pesach Sheni 5:05

2M ago5:05

5:05

Have you ever wondered about the power of a well-placed question? Pesach Sheni—the "Second Passover"—offers a fascinating glimpse into how questioning can actually reshape religious practice and deepen spiritual understanding. This spiritually charged day commemorates an extraordinary moment when a group of Israelites, deemed ritually impure and th…

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Parshas Acharei Mos - Kedoshim: Billionaires Without Wives: A Torah Lesson on Rootedness 20:17

2M ago20:17

20:17

The wealthy billionaire who has everything but lacks a home and wife serves as a powerful metaphor for our spiritual lives in this exploration of the Torah concept "Shchutei Chutz." Drawing from the double Torah portion Acharei Mot-Kedoshim, we unpack a seemingly technical prohibition against offering sacrifices outside the Temple to reveal its pro…

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Say No to Schnitzel, Say Yes to Greatness 3:53

3M ago3:53

3:53

The Rambam teaches us that true strength comes from self-control, especially at the dinner table. When we make healthy food choices and resist unhealthy temptations, we earn the prestigious title of "Gibor" (strong person). • Rambam's laws in Mishneh Torah identify certain unhealthy foods to avoid • A wise person restrains themselves and doesn't ea…

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Parshas Tazria-Metzorah: Take This One Simple Step, Then Relax and Savor Life! 26:33

3M ago26:33

26:33

Could the secret to a longer, happier life be as simple as talking less? That's the provocative wisdom at the heart of Parshat Tazria Metzorah, brought to life through a captivating Midrash about a traveling peddler selling "the elixir of life." When Rabbi Yanai heard this peddler's extraordinary claim, he was naturally curious. But what the peddle…

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Tweet Less, Think More: A Bird's Eye View of Lashon Hara 3:32

3M ago3:32

3:32

The spiritual affliction of tzara'at (often mistranslated as leprosy) teaches profound lessons about the nature of harmful speech and the importance of addressing root causes in our spiritual growth. • Birds are included in the purification ritual for tzara'at because they represent mindless chirping • The sin of lashon hara (gossip) stems from dev…

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Why Aren't We Growing? Rabbi Yerucham's Springtime Challenge 3:03

3M ago3:03

3:03

The human heart finds itself caught in a peculiar paradox. That new toy, that exciting purchase, that long-awaited gift—how quickly their luster fades! Within days, sometimes hours, we're already looking elsewhere for satisfaction. Yet somehow, the pink blush of cherry blossoms or the golden glow of sunset never loses its power to move us, no matte…

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Parshas Pekudei: 🤯 RAV SHACH REVEALS THE SECRET! The Tiny Alef That Changes EVERYTHING! 27:34

4M ago27:34

27:34

A single miniature letter in the Torah scroll holds a revolutionary lesson about spiritual growth. The first word of Leviticus contains a mysteriously tiny aleph—a scribal tradition dating back to Moses himself. But why? The classic explanation tells us Moses, in his humility, couldn't bear receiving greater honor than others when God called to him…

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The Soul's Spring Cleaning: PESACH TIME! 4:11

4M ago4:11

4:11

What makes chametz so forbidden during Passover, and what more profound spiritual lessons can we learn from this ritual prohibition? This exploration takes us beyond the surface-level understanding of leavened bread to uncover profound insights into personal growth and spiritual development. The Jewish tradition defines chametz as foods containing …

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Parshas Pekudei - Hachodesh: How to Humbly Lift a Blue Whale 30:17

4M ago30:17

30:17

The tension between accomplishment and humility stands at the heart of Jewish spiritual life. How do we strive for greatness while remaining modest? This profound question finds its answer in Parsha Pekudei's account of the Mishkan's construction. When the impossibly heavy beams of the Mishkan needed to be erected, no one—not even Moshe—possessed t…

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Parshas Vayakhel: HOW TO LIFT A CAR 35:16

4M ago35:16

35:16

What extraordinary abilities might be lying dormant within you, waiting to be awakened? The ancient Jewish concept of "Nosoi Libo" (raising one's heart) reveals a profound truth about human potential that's as relevant today as it was when the Mishkan was built thousands of years ago. When the Israelites needed to construct the Tabernacle, they fac…

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Dancing with Destruction: Lessons from the Golden Calf 4:08

4M ago4:08

4:08

The catastrophic betrayal at the foot of Mount Sinai marks one of humanity's most profound spiritual failures. Having just experienced divine revelation—essentially a cosmic wedding between God and the Jewish people—they immediately turned to worship a golden idol. This wasn't merely a mistake; it was betrayal in the wedding hall itself. What trans…

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The Digital Predator: How Modern Tech Scatters Our Jewish Soul 4:43

4M ago4:43

4:43

What ancient enemy understood our modern challenge better than we do? "Pizur HaNefesh" – the scattering of the soul – lurks in our pockets, ready to pounce on any Jew seeking spiritual growth. This powerful teaching, passed down through generations of Torah scholars, identifies our smartphones as perhaps the greatest threat to Jewish spiritual focu…

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Megillas Esther: The Divine Blueprint Behind the Tabloid-Like Story 4:13

4M ago4:13

4:13

Behind the colorful masks of Purim lies a profound paradox that challenges our perception of reality itself. The Megillat Esther—absent of God's name—invites us to peer beyond coincidence into divine orchestration. What appears as a tabloid-worthy tale of drunken kings, palace intrigue, and political machinations reveals itself as something far mor…

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The Dark Secret of Parshas Zachor: What You Don't Know About Amalek 34:18

5M ago34:18

34:18

Preparing for Parshat Zachor requires understanding what truly makes Amalek the eternal enemy of the Jewish people. This provocative exploration delves deep into just three verses—fewer than 50 words total—that we're commanded to hear each year before Purim. What makes these words so significant that hearing them constitutes a Torah-level obligatio…

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Why You Shouldn't Hibernate Through Leviticus 4:13

5M ago4:13

4:13

This discussion reveals the depth and relevance of Sefer Vayikra, challenging listeners to engage with its teachings rather than hibernate through them. We dissect the importance of inner authenticity and the true essence of a Torah scholar while encouraging community support. • Understanding the concept of Leviticus Hibernation • The necessity of …

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The Torah Podcasting Paradox: Speaking to Yourself 5:23

5M ago5:23

5:23

The journey of sharing wisdom can often feel lonely, especially when it seems like nobody is listening. Join us as we delve into themes of motivation, personal growth, and the transformative power of self-discussion. Rabbi Mendelsohn shares his experiences with the Motivation Congregation and reflects on the complexities of engagement in the digita…

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Parshas Terumah: When The Wealthy Shver Comes For Shabbos 28:17

5M ago28:17

28:17

In today's compelling episode, we unearth the layers behind the directive to build the Mishkan, or Tabernacle, a sanctuary for the Almighty among His people. This exploration raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of divinity—why does an infinite God wish for a finite home? By delving into the text and drawing on rich rabbinic commenta…

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Jealous Of Your Friends Cybertruck? Listen to this Ramban on Parshas Mishpatim! 5:18

5M ago5:18

5:18

Welcome to a transformative exploration of human emotions as we dive into the Ten Commandments! This episode highlights the profound wisdom encapsulated in the commandment "lo tachmod" or "do not covet." We'll uncover how this ancient instruction resonates in our contemporary lives, particularly regarding feelings of jealousy and comparison. Throug…

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The Power of Prayer: Lessons from Moshe Rabbeinu 5:17

5M ago5:17

5:17

In this episode, we explore the remarkable story of Moshe Rabbeinu, diving into his experience with a speech impediment and how it shaped his leadership as the chosen savior of the Jewish people. Moshe's hesitant approach to asking for what he needed reveals profound insights about humility and the significance of explicit prayer in our lives. We d…

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Parshas Mishpatim: If You Find Torah Study Dull and Uninspiring, Listen to This! 32:50

5M ago32:50

32:50

What if the key to unlocking a more profound spiritual connection with Torah study lies in breaking away from traditional methods? Join us as we explore the journey of "floaters," individuals seeking true fulfillment amidst the often rigid frameworks of Daf Yomi, Oiraisa, and Mishnayas. Discover how the teachings of Rashi and the wisdom of this wee…

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Parshas Mishpatim Teaches Brain Mastery 4:32

5M ago4:32

4:32

Unlock the mysteries of the human brain and discover why this remarkable organ is considered one of the most extraordinary creations, rivaling the wonders of the universe. Join us as we explore the intricate network of billions of nerve cells that govern our emotions, motor skills, and decision-making processes. We promise you'll gain a profound un…

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Unwavering Faith: Timeless Wisdom from Moshe's Battle with Amalek 4:29

5M ago4:29

4:29

Support the show Join The Motivation Congregation WhatsApp community for daily motivational Torah content! ---------------- SUBSCRIBE to The Weekly Parsha for an insightful weekly talk on the week's Parsha. Listen on Spotify or 24six! Access all Torah talks and listen to featured episodes on our website, themotivationcongregation.org --------------…

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Redefining Wealth: Buy Value and Follow Moshe's Lead 3:52

5M ago3:52

3:52

What if the true measure of wealth lies not in your bank account but in the acts of kindness you pursue? Discover the transformative concept of "Chacham Lev Yikach Mitzvot"—the wisdom of seeking mitzvot as the most profound form of value. Reflecting on Moshe Rabbeinu's choice to honor Joseph's bones over accumulating riches during the exodus from E…

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Embracing Divine Provision Over Financial Anxiety 5:50

5M ago5:50

5:50

What if true financial security isn't about hoarding savings but trusting in something greater? Join us for a riveting exploration where we challenge the conventional wisdom of savings accounts and emergency funds, guided by the teachings of Rebbe Lazar Hamodoy and the profound lessons of the manna in the wilderness. Instead of urging you to set as…

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Roots of Renewal: Embracing Personal Growth and Spiritual Reflection on Tu B'Shvat (Rebroadcast) 18:32

5M ago18:32

18:32

Unlock the profound connections between nature and personal growth as we journey through the celebration of Tu B'Shvat, often seen as a "tree independence day." Have you ever wondered how a minor Jewish holiday can hold the potential for significant spiritual reflection and rejuvenation? Join us to explore the historical roots found in the Mishnah …

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Parshas Beshalach: Do You REALLY Know How to Pray? 26:30

6M ago26:30

26:30

Unlock the profound secrets of prayer embedded in Jewish tradition. How did the Israelites' cries at the Red Sea resonate with the ancient profession of prayer passed down from Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov? Join us as we unravel the depth of these emotional supplications, exploring insights from Rashi's commentary and Rabbi Yerucham and discussing…

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Embracing Faith Over Doubt: Timeless Lessons from the Shores of Yom Suf 5:06

6M ago5:06

5:06

What happens when faith turns to doubt in the blink of an eye? Join us as we uncover the gripping story of the Jewish people at the edge of the Yom Suf, grappling with fear and uncertainty as Pharaoh's army bears down upon them. This episode offers an enlightening exploration of how quickly doubt can overshadow faith when results don't come swiftly…

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How to get the kids off their phones and into their Jewish faith 5:04

6M ago5:04

5:04

Unlock the secrets of negotiation and family unity rooted in the timeless wisdom of Judaism. Ever wondered how spirituality can transform from a solitary pursuit into a communal celebration? Join us as we reveal the profound lessons from the story of Moshe and Pharaoh, highlighting how engaging the entire family in spiritual practices creates a joy…

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Parshas Bo: Pharaoh's Downfall, Ego Battles, and Rebbetzin Waze 30:19

6M ago30:19

30:19

What happens when unchecked pride leads to the collapse of an entire civilization? Pharaoh's story in ancient Egypt is a powerful cautionary tale, revealing the destructive consequences of arrogance and the redemptive power of humility. Through vivid storytelling, we revisit the biblical account of Pharaoh, Moses, and the plagues, drawing timeless …

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Screen Time vs. Torah Time: Overcoming Digital Distractions to Embrace Spiritual Fulfillment 5:31

6M ago5:31

5:31

Is your screen time overshadowing your spiritual time? Discover why this imbalance might be holding you back from true fulfillment as we unpack the teachings of the Ramchal in our latest episode. We promise not only to challenge your daily habits but to inspire you towards a more meaningful existence, both here and in the world to come. Our convers…

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Parshas Va'era: Bring Your Livestock Indoors! 35:03

6M ago35:03

35:03

What if the path to spiritual fulfillment was as simple as bringing your livestock indoors? Explore the essence of becoming a God-fearing individual through the teachings of Parshas Va'era. The Egyptians' response to the plague of hail teaches us that even basic acts of compliance can lead us to Yiras Hashem, or fear of God. Through the perspective…