Daily Podcasts Video Research

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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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.
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.
27 Nov 2024
Israel at War – A Big Deal?
With Netanyahu on the brink of signing a ceasefire deal with Hezbollah, Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the implications for Israel's current state of perpetual warfare and the longed-for shift toward peace and political stability. They delve into the controversial nature of the deal, the Israeli public's state of war-weariness, and the broader strategic ramifications for the region, especially in relation to Gaza and the role of the far-right in Israeli politics.
20 Nov 2024
Israel at War – They are Dying
The episode addresses the grave situation of Israeli hostages in Gaza, outlining their neglect and the political complexities surrounding their release. It highlights the Israeli government's lack of urgency and empathy in addressing the hostages' conditions while examining the internal and international political struggles impacting potential rescue efforts.
13 Nov 2024
Israel at War – Amsterdam
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi analyze the recent violent attack on Israeli soccer fans in Amsterdam, drawing parallels with rising antisemitic sentiments in Europe and exploring Israeli perceptions of safety abroad. They juxtapose Jewish powerlessness with vulnerability, suggesting that while Jews globally feel more at risk, conflating different threats without nuance can hinder effective responses.
6 Nov 2024
Israel at War – Upheaval
Amidst historic political upheavals in both Israel and the United States, Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi examine the ramifications of Donald Trump's re-election and Benjamin Netanyahu's firing of Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They delve into the complex web of international diplomacy, particularly regarding Israel, and reflect on how these events affect global Jewish communities.
30 Oct 2024
Israel at War – Netanyahu’s Moment
The episode delves into the sudden resurgence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's popularity following successful military operations, causing a shift in public perception amidst ongoing warfare. Despite Netanyahu's controversial leadership style, the discussion centers on the complexities of Israeli political and military strategy and the public's yearning for stability during uncertain times.