# If Only | July 14, 2026

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-daily-derech-from-exploring-judaism-7726833/if-only-july-14-2026
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-daily-derech-from-exploring-judaism-7726833/if-only-july-14-2026.md
Podcast: [The Daily Derech from Exploring Judaism](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-daily-derech-from-exploring-judaism-7726833)
Published: 2026-07-14T12:46:53+00:00
Episode link: https://rss.com/podcasts/thedailyderech-ej/2988259
Audio file: https://content.rss.com/episodes/375185/2988259/thedailyderech-ej/2026_07_14_12_46_44_264851ea-7223-4e6c-9042-1a7763fa92a8.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-daily-derech-from-exploring-judaism-7726833/episodes/if-only-july-14-2026
Duration seconds: 1421

## Resource

In this episode of The Daily Derech , Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Devarim, Hilchot Kriyat Shema, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about the spiritual protection that comes from faithfulness to Torah. Rabbi Rubenstein explains that the generation leaving Sinai could have entered the Land of Israel peacefully had they fully trusted God instead of sending the spies. He also discusses Moses’ appointment of additional judges, emphasizing that the burden was not his ability but the immense responsibility of rendering just decisions. The Rambam teaches that one may not recite the Shema while naked, even alone. Proper separation between the heart and one’s nakedness preserves the reverence required for prayer. The Menorat HaMaor contrasts the downfall of the Northern Kingdom with Judah’s survival under King Hezekiah. It teaches that devotion to Torah and the covenant strengthens the Jewish people and invites God’s protection. Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here .

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## Transcript

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