For Heaven's Sake
Thoughtful debate elevates us all. On the chart-topping For Heaven’s Sake podcast, Donniel Hartman, Yossi Klein Halevi, and Elana Stein Hain revive the Jewish art of constructive discussion on topics related to political and social trends in Israel, Israel-Diaspora relations, and the collective consciousness of being Jewish.
The award-winning podcast draws its name from the concept of machloket l’shem shemayim, “disagreeing for the sake of heaven,” and is part of the Shalom Hartman Institute’s iEngage Project.
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19 Mar
Israel at War – War and Corruption
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi analyze Israel's resumption of conflict with Hamas in Gaza, detailing internal political turmoil and the controversial dismissal of the Shin Bet chief. The discussion outlines the militaristic and political challenges faced by Israel amidst leadership corruption and a persisting hostage crisis.
12 Mar
Israel in Ceasefire – The Domestic Front
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the current state of political tension in Israel amidst national scandals and a fragile ceasefire. They explore how Israelis might overcome these divisions to foster healing, despite the government's divisive tendencies and looming budget crises.
6 Mar
Israel in Ceasefire – Zelenskyy
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi navigate the complexities of Israel's relationship with the United States amidst the Trump administration's foreign policy shift towards Ukraine, reflecting on the potential implications for Israel's security. They delve into the moral and political dimensions of aligning with Trump, highlighting the broader impacts on Israeli society and the Jewish diaspora, particularly in light of recent UN votes and geopolitical maneuvers.
26 Feb
Israel in Ceasefire – The Wars of Gaza
The episode delves into the current Israeli-Gaza ceasefire and the complex interplay of emotions and strategies surrounding the hostilities with Hamas. The discussion highlights the challenges Israel faces in ensuring deterrence and the cultural radicalization of Gazans, amid the traumatic backdrop of the hostage situation, including the poignant case of the Bibas family.
20 Feb
Israel in Ceasefire – Agony and Uncertainty
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the deep anguish and political uncertainty in Israel following the return of the bodies of hostages killed in captivity by Hamas. As Israel faces the end of the first stage of a ceasefire and the beginning of uncertain negotiations, the discussion highlights the emotional and political turmoil within Israeli society.
20 Feb
Israel in Ceasefire – Agony and Uncertainty
The episode explores the intense emotional turmoil within Israel as the bodies of hostages are returned amidst ongoing ceasefire negotiations. Hosts Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the profound agony and uncertain outcomes facing the nation as it grapples with the conflicting desires for full hostage return and the elimination of Hamas.
19 Feb
Announcement: Thursday Release
There is no episode content provided other than an announcement about rescheduling the release date. The episode will be released on Thursday instead of the usual Wednesday.
12 Feb
Israel in Ceasefire – Faces of the Hostages
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the complex reasons behind the surprising support in Israel for Trump's controversial plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza. They dissect how historical trauma, public opinion, and current political dynamics are influencing this divisive issue.
6 Feb
Israel in Ceasefire – Trump’s Dystopia
Israeli society grapples with the implications of a proposed American takeover and transformation of Gaza, presented by Donald Trump as a solution to longstanding tensions. The discussion highlights a mix of messianism, moral ambiguity, and realpolitik, with Israeli leaders and public opinion deeply divided.
29 Jan
Israel in Ceasefire – Prime Minister Trump
In response to President Trump's influence on Israeli policy, Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the concerning lack of autonomy in Israeli decision-making under Netanyahu's leadership, particularly regarding the situation in Gaza. They question the morality and feasibility of proposed plans to 'empty Gaza' and the broader implications of a foreign leader steering Israel's future.
22 Jan
Israel in Ceasefire — They’re Returning, Where Are We Going?
Hosts Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore Israel's internal divisions over the recent ceasefire with Hamas, focusing on the emotional return of hostages and the perceived victory signals from Hamas. They debate whether Israel achieved its military goals and discuss potential implications if hostilities resume.
16 Jan
Israel at War – Coming Home
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the complexities surrounding a controversial hostage release deal that has divided Israeli society. They explore the notion of derech eretz (common decency) as a lens through which the deal might be viewed and the societal rifts it exposes.
14 Jan
Announcement: Thursday Release
The podcast episode release is delayed to Thursday due to developments regarding a potential ceasefire that may lead to the return of hostages. The hosts, Daniel and Yossi, will share their insights and reflections once the situation evolves.
8 Jan
Israel at War — Morality and Survival
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the current moral discourse in Israel amid the heightened conflict with Hamas, discussing the nation's shift from its traditional moral self-image to prioritizing survival. This discussion addresses international criticism of Israel's actions in Gaza, juxtaposing the pressures of morality with existential threats, and the resultant impact on Israeli societal attitudes.
1 Jan
Israel at War – The New Israeli Silence
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the surprisingly passive reaction of Israeli citizens to controversial government decisions, despite widespread popular disapproval. They delve into how post-October 7th trauma and historical ambivalence towards the Palestinians contribute to this silence and inaction.
25 Dec 2024
Israel at War – Hanukkah: Redefined
Hartman and Halevi discuss the changing meanings of Hanukkah, reflecting on its complex historical narratives of military victory and spiritual light in the context of Israel's recent experiences with warfare and national resilience. They explore the evolving Zionist and Diaspora perspectives on Hanukkah, particularly in light of recent geopolitical and societal challenges faced by the Jewish community.
18 Dec 2024
Israel at War – Looking Forward
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the delicate political and social landscape of Israel as the country faces the potential winding down of the war with the Iranian axis and grapples with the aftermath of October 7th. They delve into the challenges of forming a ceasefire deal, the implications of hostage negotiations, and the internal tensions brewing within Israeli society.
11 Dec 2024
Israel at War – Crossroads
Considerations about Israel's readiness to conclude the war have been prompted by shifts in the geopolitical climate, including Syria's upheaval and tentative hostage negotiations with Hamas. As optimism emerges from Israel’s military successes, challenges remain regarding the long-term strategy for regions like Gaza and ongoing judicial issues, highlighting a critical moment of decision for Israeli society.
4 Dec 2024
Israel at War...with Itself
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi delve into the motivations behind Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition government, assessing its attempts to weaken Israel's democratic institutions while also managing the ongoing conflict with Hamas. They discuss the potential for societal healing amidst these political tensions and historical grievances, drawing parallels to past events like the Yom Kippur War.
27 Nov 2024
Israel at War – A Big Deal?
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the psychological and political implications of Prime Minister Netanyahu's ceasefire deal with Hezbollah. They examine the potential impacts on Israeli society and speculate whether this agreement might open a path to easing the warful tensions affecting the nation.