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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23 Apr
Israel at War — Holocaust Memorial Day
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss the profound impact of recent events in Israel and their implications for Holocaust remembrance on Yom HaShoah. They explore themes of victimhood, radical evil, and the role of Zionism in shaping contemporary Jewish identity amid ongoing conflict.
16 Apr
Announcement – Passover Break
The podcast is temporarily paused during Chol HaMoed of Passover, with plans to return the following week. Listeners are wished a happy holiday in the meantime.
10 Apr
Israel at War — The State of our Freedom
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi discuss how to engage with Passover's themes of freedom amidst significant challenges in Israel, including a contentious political climate and ongoing hostage situations. They explore the balance between acknowledging the holiday's traditional narratives and adapting them to resonate with present-day realities.
9 Apr
Announcement: Thursday Release
The episode serves as a brief announcement about a schedule change for the podcast's release. It informs listeners that the episode will be available on Thursday instead of the usual Wednesday.
2 Apr
Israel at War – Believe it or Not
Donniel Hartman and Yossi Klein Halevi explore the current political situation in Israel, emphasizing Prime Minister Netanyahu's attempts to manipulate key institutions like the Shin Bet to align with his and his coalition's interests. Despite the absurd and troubling nature of these developments, the hosts express hope that upcoming elections might offer Israelis a chance to reject this trend of autocracy and ridicule.
26 Mar
Israel at War — “We Will Die and Not Enlist”
Amidst heightened tensions in Israel, the refusal of the Ultra-Orthodox community to enlist in the military remains a critical point of contention due to their substantial reliance on state resources yet reluctance to participate in national defense. This episode delves into the historical context and ideological rift that underpin this stance, proposing a gradual reintegration of the Haredim into military service while recognizing the necessary cultural shift required.
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
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.
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.