10 Apr
Pesach - Freedom
Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein explores the concept of freedom in the context of Pesach, focusing on matzah as a symbol of liberation despite its association with poverty. He delves into philosophical perspectives on freedom and the complexities introduced by the Maharal's explanation, contrasting ideal freedom with societal obligations.
21 Mar
ABRAHAM
Author Anthony Julius explores the complex character of Abraham, emphasizing the patriarch's dual identity as both a skeptic and a believer, which reflects ongoing tensions within Judaism. Julius argues that Abraham's story, particularly the binding of Isaac, continues to resonate due to its fundamental questions about faith, morality, and identity, challenging historical and religious interpretations.
20 Mar
Mark Gottlieb and Anna Moreland on Judaism, Christianity, and Forgiveness
Rabbi Mark Gottlieb and Professor Anna Moreland explore the themes of forgiveness, repentance, and reconciliation across Judaism and Christianity, particularly in the context of contemporary issues such as cancel culture and the moral response to the October 7 Hamas attacks. The conversation is anchored by a statement made by Jewish and Christian theologians, highlighting both shared values and distinct approaches to forgiveness within each tradition.
18 Mar
#93: Ultimate Reward and Punishment: Rambam’s Magisterial Essay Part 1 + TORCH Fundraiser
This episode delves into Rambam's foundational essay on reward and punishment, detailing various views on the afterlife and highlighting the confusion surrounding these concepts. It emphasizes the importance of interpreting religious texts with depth and cautions against simplistic interpretations, encouraging a pursuit of understanding that is aligned with deeper truths rather than mere literal interpretations.
13 Mar
Ronna Burger on Reading Esther as a Philosopher (Rebroadcast)
Ronna Burger provides a philosopher's lens to the Book of Esther, interpreting it through themes of chance, providence, and prudence, especially in the context of Jewish survival in the diaspora. She argues that Esther employs Machiavellian strategies, highlighting a complex interplay of human cunning with divine providence in determining history's course.
13 Mar
Prophecy & Parsha
Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein delves into the principles of prophecy and their relation to writing in the Tanach, examining how prophetic requirements inform our understanding of Tanach's composition. Additionally, he discusses Rashi's systematic approach to interpreting the Parsha and his method of integrating Midrash to clarify vague passages.
10 Mar
#92: World of Souls + 2025 TORCH Fundraiser
Yaakov Wolbe discusses the Sefer HaChinuch, examining the foundations of Jewish faith, including the concepts of the World to Come, the role of suffering, and the Oral Torah. He explains that the Sefer HaChinuch offers concise insights into these concepts, which are essential for understanding Judaism's theological underpinnings.
21 Feb
David Bashevkin on Orthodox Jews and the American Religious Revival
Rabbi David Bashevkin, speaking with Jonathan Silver, explores the evolving spiritual dynamics within American Orthodox Judaism amidst broader religious trends in the U.S. and the recent challenges facing Israel. The conversation delves into modern Orthodoxy's historical development in America, its institutional successes, and the quest for religious authenticity and individual spiritual resonance within regimented structures.
20 Feb
Understanding Pshat
The episode explores the debate over whether Rashi's commentary on the Tanach is Pshat-based or Drush-based, emphasizing the importance of context in Torah interpretation and Rashi's unparalleled achievements in Jewish scholarship. The discussion highlights the connection between the Pshat perspective and the foundational tenets of Jewish belief, as well as the potential pitfalls of using purely Cartesian logic when studying Jewish texts.
20 Feb
Can Orthodox Judaism Be Reformed? with Rabbi Irving Greenberg
Rabbi Irving Greenberg presents his thought-provoking theories on the evolution of Jewish theology and the possibility of reforming Orthodox Judaism to reflect modern values. He emphasizes human responsibility and agency in the contemporary era, especially in relation to historic and potentially contentious issues like the Holocaust and LGBTQ rights.
17 Feb
#89: Where Atheists Go Wrong
The episode explores the intersection of atheism, belief, and bias, focusing on the idea that heresy originates not in the mind but in the heart. Drawing on Rabbi Elchanan Wasserman's essay, it argues that belief in God is self-evident to those free from biases and that atheism stems from emotional rather than intellectual roots.
13 Feb
For Rabbi Aaron Rotenberg, environmentalism isn't adjacent to Judaism—it's a core tenet
Rabbi Aaron Rotenberg, a new Renewal rabbi, discusses how environmentalism is at the core of Judaism, especially pertinent with the approach of Tu b'Shevat. He emphasizes the importance of connecting Judaism to the Earth and bringing renewed spiritual energy to Jewish practices, resonating with younger audiences through unconventional and animated services.
30 Jan
Empathy Is Who We Are: Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove on Being Jewish Today
Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove discusses the dual challenges Jewish communities face in balancing the need for Israel's self-defense with empathy towards those suffering in Gaza. He emphasizes the historical role of empathy in Jewish identity, draws parallels with the biblical story of Esther, and shares insights from his spiritual journey and pastoral work.
30 Jan
Are Science and Religion Mutually Exclusive? With Spencer Klavan
Spencer Klavan discusses the intersection of science and religion, exploring how modern scientific discoveries often echo ancient theological ideas. He challenges the notion that science and religion are inherently opposed, suggesting instead that both can coexist and enrich our understanding of the universe.
24 Jan
Ross Douthat and Meir Soloveichik on the State of American Belief
Ross Douthat and Rabbi Meir Soloveichik explore the evolving landscape of American faith, challenging the secularization narrative by proposing that a renewed interest in monotheism might be brewing. They argue that the spiritual curiosity driving many towards non-traditional beliefs could actually be channeled into established religions like Judaism and Christianity.
22 Jan
How to be a Jew … and a pragmatist
Rabbi Marc Katz discusses the pragmatic decisions underlying rabbinic Judaism, focusing on Yohanan ben Zakkai's choice to prioritize establishing a school over saving the Temple after its destruction. This conversation explores the balance between tradition-informed pragmatism and the challenges facing modern Jewish communities, including interfaith marriage and evolving Zionist sentiments.
21 Jan
'You can forgive and seek justice at the same time': Robert Enright on how to learn forgiveness
Dr. Robert Enright explores the powerful role of forgiveness in both personal healing and justice, emphasizing its potential to mend deeply entrenched hatred and anger. Highlighting forgiveness as a choice and a journey, he underscores that mercy does not negate justice, drawing insights from historical and personal stories including Eva Kor's forgiveness of Holocaust perpetrators.
14 Jan
Can we Forgive Our Worst Enemies? Should We? With R.R. Reno
R.R. Reno, editor of First Things Magazine, discusses the transformative potential of forgiveness in a tumultuous world with Liel Leibovitz. They explore how forgiveness can serve as an act of love that encourages repentance, without undermining justice.
13 Jan
Se’adya Gaon: The Geonic Pillar of Al-Andalus - Jackson Gardner
Jackson Gardner explores the monumental influence of Saadia Gaon on Andalusian Sephardic Judaism and his parallels with later thinkers like Maimonides. By examining Saadia's philosophical, exegetical, and halakhic contributions, Gardner illustrates how Saadia shaped key aspects of Jewish thought that resonated through successive generations.
11 Jan
wHow to Be a Jew … in Los Angeles right now
In the face of devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, Rabbi Beau Shapiro discusses the powerlessness and communal support felt within the Jewish community. Evoking parallels to COVID-19 lockdowns and the surreal effects of uncontrollable disasters, Shapiro emphasizes the importance of connection, spirituality, and long-term support for those affected.
7 Jan
Haym Soloveitchik: How Modernity Changed Our Relationship to God
Rabbi Dr. Haym Soloveitchik examines the transformation of halacha and its implications on our modern relationship with God, emphasizing a shift from mimetic tradition to a more text-based engagement in Jewish law. He and David Bashevkin discuss how modernity and cultural integration have redefined our connections to Jewish observance and the divine.
2 Jan
Rationalism, Pshat, & Mesorah
Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein explores the nuances of Pshat (the simple explanation of biblical texts), its connections to rationalism, and the nature of Mesorah (tradition) in Jewish thought. He delves into historical interpretations and examines how understanding Midrash involves discerning when they convey absolute tradition versus interpretative insight.
24 Dec 2024
Einat Wilf: ‘Jews Are Never Allowed To Win, and Arabs Are Never Allowed to Lose' (18 Questions, 40 Israeli Thinkers)
Einat Wilf, a former Knesset member, discusses the entrenched ideological conflict between Israel and Palestinianism, arguing that the right of return prevents resolution. She asserts that unless Palestinian identity evolves away from opposition to Israel, peace remains unattainable, posing questions about nationalism, sovereignty, and Israel's strategic challenges.
21 Dec 2024
The true meaning of Israeli resilience (corrected)
Israeli resilience after the October 2023 attacks by Hamas and Hezbollah is explored through social cohesion and grassroots networks, emphasizing the importance of community-driven recovery over top-down approaches. Experts like Dr. Daniel Aldrich and Rina Goldberg discuss initiatives funded by the Jewish Federation to support community rebuilding through leadership programs and resilience-building infrastructures.
2 Dec 2024
A Guide to Jealousy
The episode explores the nature of jealousy through a discussion of a midrash on Moses' response to his impending death and Joshua succeeding him as leader. Stein Hain and Batnitzky examine the ways jealousy manifests, its roots, and potential methods to manage it by understanding human limitations and aspirations.
28 Nov 2024
Exploring Gan Eden - Rabbi Chaim Eisen
Rabbi Chaim Eisen explores the concept of Gan Eden across multiple Jewish texts, highlighting the divergence between its descriptions in the Tanakh and interpretations found in Talmudic and Midrashic literature. He discusses whether these interpretations should be considered allegory or symbolism, contrasting perspectives from prominent medieval Jewish thinkers, including Maimonides and Rashi.
20 Nov 2024
Facets of Emuna & Authorship of Midrashim
Emuna, a central concept in Jewish belief, must be used wisely and not lead to blind adherence or confusion, as seen in both religious and political realms. Rabbi Avrohom Vilner's careful editing of Midrashim emphasizes the importance of authentic traditions and textual integrity in Jewish scholarship.
15 Nov 2024
Jon Levenson on Understanding the Binding of Isaac as the Bible Understands It (Rebroadcast)
John Levenson, a renowned scholar, delves into the Binding of Isaac, analyzing its complex themes and context within ancient Near Eastern and biblical traditions. By examining the text’s nuances, Levenson challenges modern interpretations and argues for an understanding rooted in the narrative's original context and religious symbolism.
7 Nov 2024
What Matters Now to Rabbi Yitz Greenberg in conversation with Yossi Klein Halevi
Rabbi Irving Yitz Greenberg, a key figure in post-Holocaust Jewish identity, discusses his latest work, "The Triumph of Life," which proposes a new understanding of messianism and the evolving role of Judaism in modernity. The discussion, led by Yossi Klein Halevi, delves into Greenberg's ideas on covenantal messianism, responsibility versus divine intervention, and the challenges facing contemporary Judaism.
7 Nov 2024
In his new memoir, Michael Coren recounts his life, from Jewish cabbie's son to Anglican priest
Michael Coren, once a bombastic right-wing media personality, shares his spiritual journey from being born to a Jewish cab driver's son in England, converting through various Christian denominations, and eventually becoming an Anglican priest. In conversation with Ralph Benmergui, Coren discusses handling controversies, his struggles with forgiveness, and the evolution of his spiritual beliefs.
7 Nov 2024
In his new memoir, Michael Coren recounts his life, from Jewish cabbie's son to Anglican priest
Michael Coren, an Anglican priest with a complex spiritual journey from Judaism to various forms of Christianity, discusses the themes of forgiveness and moral responsibility outlined in his memoir. He reflects on his changing views, including past conservative stances and his more recent embrace of inclusivity, particularly concerning the LGBTQ community.
6 Nov 2024
Is Praying at Gravesites a Grave Mistake? - Rabbi Yitzhak Berdugo
Rabbi Yitzhak Berdugo delves into the debate around visiting gravesites for prayer, discussing whether it is permissible or even desirable according to Jewish law and philosophy, with a focus on interpretations by the Rambam. He explores various perspectives, including that of the Zohar and other Rabbinic authorities, contrasting the views that encourage direct communication with the deceased with those that consider such practices suspect or forbidden.
31 Oct 2024
Q&A with Rabbi Dweck - LED on Shabbat, Kashrut, and Eruv Tavshilin (October 2024)
Rabbi Joseph Dweck addresses a wide range of halakhic questions from the interpretation of extraterrestrial life in relation to Judaism to complex halakhic issues about using LED lights on Shabbat. The discussions also touch upon philosophical questions such as the nature of sin in historical contexts and the handling of communal traditions.
22 Oct 2024
What Do We Mean by Zion?
Avi Finegold's article delves into the complex relationship between Jews and Zionism, exploring various perspectives on Jewish sovereignty, the messianic era, and nationalism. This narrative seeks to unpack how these ideologies shape Jewish identity and communal tensions, particularly in relation to Israel's political reality today.
23 Sep 2024
What’s Your Fish?
Elana Stein Hain and Yonah Hain discuss the story of Jonah through the lens of a Midrash from Pirkei DeRabbi Eliezer, suggesting that Jonah's time in the whale is less about punishment and more about gaining perspective. They explore the idea of seeking temporary refuge from life's chaos to reconnect with deeper values and responsibilities, particularly relevant as Yom Kippur approaches.
23 Sep 2024
Everything You Wanted to Know About Hate but Were Afraid to Ask
Eran Halperin explores the psychological depths of hate, arguing it is a stable and intense emotion, targeting entire groups rather than specific actions, unlike other negative emotions like anger. The discussion highlights how hate's normalization in societies, particularly in Israel, undermines democratic norms and exacerbates societal dysfunction, urging a pressing need for societal change.
19 Sep 2024
9/21/24 – Shiur 484 – Ayin Hara – is it a real thing? Should we be concerned? How does it relate to Rosh Hashana and Tashlich?
Ayin Hara, or the Evil Eye, is discussed in Jewish texts and has implications for Jewish practices, but views on its impact and ways to combat it vary. Guests discuss its realness, factors contributing to its presence, and traditional versus superstitious methods of protection, alongside separate conversations on topics like end-of-life preparations and misconceptions about inviting bad luck.
17 Sep 2024
Yussie Zakutinsky: Connecting to a Disconnected Jewish People [Teshuva 2/4]
Yussie Zakutinsky discusses the vision of a Judaism that transcends divisions and unites all Jews, exploring how to recognize the divinity in every member of the Jewish people. He delves into the mystical concept that the entirety of the Jewish People is an expression of God and examines how this perspective can foster community and spiritual renewal.
12 Sep 2024
Bernard-Henri Lévy on Israel Alone
Bernard-Henri Lévy, a renowned French philosopher, discusses his new book, "Israel Alone," which delves into global geopolitical dynamics and contemporary antisemitism. Lévy advocates for a strong Jewish identity to combat antisemitism and urges Israel to maintain its moral high ground even amid geopolitical isolation.
3 Sep 2024
Halakha: Action with Purpose - Rabbi Joseph Dweck
Rabbi Joseph Dweck explores the fundamental relationship between halakha (Jewish law) and the covenant (berit) made between God and the Jewish people, emphasizing halakha's role in maintaining an active relationship with God. He discusses the importance of mitzvot (commandments) as divinely ordained bridges that enable this connection, noting the critical distinction between being descendants of Abraham and actively participating in the covenant through mitzvot.
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by Matt Sienkiewicz
by Matt Sienkiewicz
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