The Prayer of R. Chanina | June 3, 2026

In this episode of The Daily Derech, Rabbi Marcus Rubenstein explores Parashat Beha’alotcha, Hilchot Talmud Torah, and a teaching from Menorat HaMaor about spiritual greatness, humility, and devotion to God despite material poverty.The Me’am Loez section discusses the consecration of the Levi’im for service in the Mishkan. Rabbi Rubenstein explains the purification rituals, including shaving and sacrifices, and reflects on their role in preparing the Levites for sacred service. He also examines the Midrashic teaching that Aaron physically “waved” the Levites before God, suggesting this symbolized their transformation into vessels dedicated to divine service.The Rambam section addresses children’s Torah education. Children should begin formal study around age six or seven, according to their readiness, and their learning should be treated as a central communal priority.The Menorat HaMaor section focuses on Rabbi Hanina ben Dosa, whose righteousness sustained the world despite his poverty. Through stories about his prayers and miracles, the lesson emphasizes that spiritual stature depends not on wealth or status, but on devotion to God and concern for the welfare of others.Learn more at exploringjudaism.org/thedailyderech and reach out to Rabbi Rubenstein here.