The Yoke of Teshuvah | Sepetember 4, 2026

See today's text here!

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Nitzavim Vayeilech, Hilchot Tefillah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the discipline of teshuvah.

The Me’am Loez section examines the phrase “lo bashamayim hi,” emphasizing that Torah cannot be approached only through our own intellect or prior assumptions. Rabbi Rubenstein highlights the teaching that humility and openness are necessary to truly receive Torah as revelation and allow it to teach us something new.

The Rambam section discusses when a person can fulfill the obligation of prayer by listening to the repetition of the Shaliach Tzibbur and answering Amen. Generally, this applies to those unable to pray themselves, while on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur of the Jubilee year, even those who know the prayers may rely on the leader.

Menorat HaMaor presents David as establishing the path and discipline of teshuvah. His repentance ultimately enabled Solomon’s prayers to open the Temple gates, demonstrating the transformative power of repentance.

Today's text: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1q01JVIhyX_DhbJVA86X-qhrRhmFdvT3X/view?usp=sharing

Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.