# Returning to Balance [Day 167 - Orchos Tzaddikim | Repentance 24]

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe-675642/returning-to-balance-day-167-orchos-tzaddikim-repentance-24
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe-675642/returning-to-balance-day-167-orchos-tzaddikim-repentance-24.md
Podcast: [Jewish Inspiration Podcast · Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe](https://stenobird.com/podcast/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe-675642)
Published: 2026-07-19T05:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://share.transistor.fm/s/5e67b9b3
Audio file: https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/media.transistor.fm/5e67b9b3/e3a49d88.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/jewish-inspiration-podcast-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe-675642/episodes/returning-to-balance-day-167-orchos-tzaddikim-repentance-24
Duration seconds: 1092

## Resource

In this lesson from the Gate of Repentance ( Shaar HaTeshuvah ), Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe explains the concept of "Teshuvas HaMishkal" —repentance through restoring spiritual balance. Every sin creates an imbalance in a person's character and relationship with Hashem. Therefore, genuine teshuvah often requires moving in the opposite direction to repair the damage. If a person indulged excessively in physical pleasures, they should practice restraint. If they abused food, drink, wealth, or other worldly enjoyments, they should consciously limit those same areas to rebuild self-control. Rabbi Wolbe emphasizes that the goal is not self-punishment but restoring proper spiritual equilibrium. A central theme of the episode is that Hashem's greatest desire is not punishment, but relationship . Rabbi Wolbe beautifully explains that repentance begins with a profound realization: Hashem was present the entire time. The greatest gift in life is a close relationship with the Almighty, and every act of teshuvah is simply returning to the One who has been patiently waiting for us all along. Through examples from the Talmud, King David, Adam HaRishon, and Menasheh, one of the most sinful kings in Jewish history, Rabbi Wolbe demonstrates that no matter how serious a person's mistakes may be, the gates of repentance remain open. As long as life remains, Hashem eagerly awaits our return. The lesson concludes with practical guidance for personal growth. Rabbi Wolbe teaches that small acts of self-restraint—delaying a meal, walking instead of taking the easier path, or choosing simplicity over indulgence—strengthen the soul's ability to overcome greater temptations. More importantly, every difficulty we experience can become an opportunity for introspection rather than frustration. Whether a min…

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## Transcript

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