Shining Light for Others | June 2, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah from Rambam, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the value and breadth of Torah learning.The parashah section examines the symbolism of the menorah and asks why God would command its lighting if God does not need light. Through a parable of a sighted man and a blind man, Rabbi Rubenstein explains that the menorah represents God’s desire to grant honor and dignity to the Jewish people. The lesson is that relationships should be built on mutual respect and efforts to preserve the dignity of others.The Rambam section teaches that every Jewish community must establish permanent teachers for children. Rabbi Rubenstein emphasizes that Torah education is a defining responsibility of a Jewish community and essential to its continued existence.The Menorat HaMaor section explains the many forms of Torah knowledge attributed to Rabbi Yohanan ben Zakkai and contrasts them with the extraordinary spiritual stature of Rabbi Yonatan ben Uziel. The teaching highlights both the vast scope of Torah wisdom and its power to elevate the world. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.