In episode twenty-eight of the 48 Ways series during the Omer, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe teaches Ha’oseh Siyag L’Dvarav — “making a fence around your words” (and by extension, around your life). Just as we build protective fences around dangerous things (nuclear plants, guns, etc.), we must create intentional boundaries to safeguard our speech, eyes, time, family, and values from negative influences.
Rabbi Wolbe explains that boundaries are essential for maximizing pleasure and success in every area. Without them, we lose appreciation (going to the beach every day stops being special), fall into bad habits (foul language from coworkers, endless scrolling), or expose ourselves and our children to harm. He stresses protecting innocence like we protect valuables — limit apps, use screen-time controls, avoid certain environments (e.g., Las Vegas as “Sin City”), and be cautious with media and influences.
Additional teachings include: pre-marital counseling/therapy as a wise boundary for marriage (especially for those over 30); knowing good vs. evil clearly; learning from mistakes only to improve the future; and recognizing that “the second look costs.” The definition of insanity is repeating the same action while expecting different results. Children absorb what they hear and see at home — set the right example. Ultimately, boundaries are not restrictions but strategic tools that allow us to live with clarity, self-control, and true freedom.
_____________
Recorded in TORCH Centre - Studio A on May 31, 2022, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on July 24, 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.
_____________
Listen, Subscribe & Share:
Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.
_____________
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
_____________
Support Our Mission:
Our Mission is Connecting Jews & Judaism. Help us spread Judaism globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org.
Your support makes a HUGE difference!
_____________
Listen More
Other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe:
For a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at http://podcast.torchweb.org
_____________
Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Omer, #Count, #48Ways, #SpiritualGrowth, #TorahWisdom, #PirkeiAvot, #WisdomDaily