Wrestling and Dreaming: Engaging Discussions on Judaism

Episode 67: Twice A Hero

Rabbi Dobrusin shares excerpts from a sermon he delivered on Parashat Noach in 1998. The sermon concerned a significant accomplishment by one of his childhood heroes who provided a critical lesson for us all. 

Episode 66:Singing Torah

What  can an incident at a World Series game teach us about how we relate to Torah? Rabbi Dobrusin answers this question in this episode of the podcast. 

Episode 65: An Act of Lovingkindess

As we conclude the annual cycle of the reading of the Torah, Rabbi Dobrusin discusses a beautiful traditional interpretation on a verse in a section of the Torah which, sadly, is often overlooked. What can this interpretation teach us about an important Jewish ritual? 

Episode 64: The Season of Joy

What does diluted soup have to do with the celebration of the holiday of Sukkot and what life lesson can we derive from this pragmatic Sukkot tradition? Rabbi Dobrusin shares thoughts on the upcoming festival in this week's episode of Wrestling and Dreaming. 

Episode 63: Memory

The Yizkor, Memorial Service on Yom Kippur, is a time to remember those closest to us who have died. But, it can symbolize something as well. In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin considers an additional meaning the Yizkor serve can have for us. 

Episode 62: The Sound of the Shofar

What does the sound of the Shofar mean? Rabbi Dobrusin shares some thoughts on how we might find meaning in the blowing of the Shofar in different ways. 

Episode 61: Watching the River Run

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin discusses on the most beloved traditional rituals of Rosh Hashana and offers an additional way in which we can view this meaningful ceremony. 

Episode 60: Sincerity and Awareness

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin shares thoughts on Kavannah: sincerity and meaning in prayer and religious ritual. In the course of the discussion, he teaches about one commandment in the Torah which is significantly different from every other commandment. 

Episode 59: Signs on the Road

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin addresses the subject of Teshuva, repentance, as we approach the High Holy Days. Using stories from his childhood reflecting one of his lifelong interests, he discusses both the process and substance of Teshuva. 

Episode 58: Coming Home

Where have you had memorable  experiences praying with a congregation? Rabbi Dobrusin shares some stories of his most memorable experiences in anticipation of an upcoming special occasion.