JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Confronting the Challenges of This Generation

In this episode, Dr. Yael Ziegler shares her thoughtful and layered approach to the study of Tanakh. Known for her deep literary readings and her commitment to both peshat and the broader interpretive tradition, she explains how elements like structure, repetition, and intertextuality shape her analysis of the biblical text. We explore her perspective on Midrash—not as a rewriting of the narrative, but as a sophisticated form of interpretation. Hazal, she explains, were keen readers of both peshat and derash, and even midrashim that appear far from the plain meaning often reflect a deep sensitivity to language, themes, and textual echoes found elsewhere in Tanakh. These interpretive moves open up new layers of meaning while remaining anchored in the biblical text. Dr. Ziegler illustrates this approach through striking examples involving Rachel and Leah, Moshe, Eliyahu, and more. She also reflects on the role of classical commentators like Rashi, Ibn Ezra, Radak, and Ramban, pointing out that these thinkers were highly attuned literary readers—even without the benefit of the modern tools we rely on today. Their insights continue to offer profound guidance in how we read and engage with Tanakh. Toward the end of the episode, Dr. Ziegler briefly touches on her book Ruth: From Alienation to Monarchy, and how it exemplifies her broader methodology: combining rigorous textual analysis with a deep respect for tradition. This conversation offers a window into a kind of Tanakh study that is both intellectually grounded and deeply rooted in the interpretive legacy of our tradition.---*This episode is dedicated to the refua shelema of our dear friend Yaakov ben Haya Sarah Malakh and to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian. ---• Bio: Dr. Yael Ziegler is the Rosh Batei Midrash and Academic Director of Matan and an Assistant Professor in Tanakh at Herzog College. She received her BA from Stern College and an MA and Ph.D. in Bible at Bar Ilan University. Dr. Ziegler has lectured widely on various Tanakh topics in Israel, the United States, Canada, South Africa, Australia, and Europe. Dr. Ziegler is the author of Promises to Keep: The Oath in Biblical Narrative and Ruth: From Alienation to Monarchy, which has been translated into Hebrew. Her book: Lamentations: Faith in a Turbulent World was released in June, 2021 and is currently being translated into Hebrew. She is now working on a book on Exodus.---Speaker's Resources• Get her books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001JOMV9O/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=ac94d9f2-8a22-4bf3-b6d2-c69c11e40020&ref_=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&ccs_id=c22bbbf3-ea51-4a71-84f2-c838544a8a2e---• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Rod Ilian, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Vasya, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we’re joined by Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, a leading educator in the Gush (Yeshivat Har Etzion) Tanakh methodology—a literary-contextual approach to the study of Tanakh that emphasizes peshat, structure, and thematic development, while reading the text in its historical and narrative context. Rabbi Leibtag lays out the foundations of this method and responds to some of the critiques raised in our previous conversations with J.J. Kimche and Rabbi Yaakov Beasley. We explore concerns that anchoring the Torah in its historical setting may risk weakening its eternal relevance, versus the argument that understanding the text in its original context deepens, rather than diminishes, its meaning. We also examine the tension between drawing out literary structure and preserving the emotional and theological rawness of the text. Another critique addressed is the worry that modern readers—armed with more information and systematic tools—can generate ḥiddushim (novel interpretations) that feel out of bounds to traditionalists, particularly when such ideas were not raised by classical commentators. In contrast, advocates argue that these insights represent a continuation of the interpretive process rather than a break from it. Rabbi Leibtag offers a thoughtful and compelling case for the method’s relevance today—rooted in tradition, informed by literary tools, and committed to making Tanakh learning more engaging, rigorous, and meaningful for the modern student.*This episode is dedicated to the refua shelema of our dear friend Yaakov ben Haya Sarah Malakh and to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian. • Bio: Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, an internationally acclaimed bible scholar and pioneer of Jewish Education on the internet, is well known in the Jewish community for his essays on the weekly Bible portion. His vibrant thematic-analytical approach blends the methods of modern academic scholarship with traditional Jewish approaches to the Biblical text. He is best known for his ability to teach students how to study rather than simply read Biblical passages. As his essays focus on meta-themes in the Bible, his readership has expanded to students of the Bible from all religions and walks of life. In Israel, Rabbi Leibtag teaches at Yeshivat Har Etzion, Matan, Yeshivat Shaalavim, Midreshet Lindenbaum, and at MTVA. He also routinely lectures around the globe, primarily as a Scholar in Residence in communities in North America; and is a regular guest lecturer for students at universities such as Columbia, Harvard, Princeton, NYU, Penn, and Brandeis.• Read one of his essays here: https://www.amazon.com/Torah-MiEtzion-Yeshivat-Har-Etzion/dp/1613290063• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Rod Ilian, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Vasya, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with Jessie Fischbein, author of 'Infertility in the Bible: How the Matriarchs Changed Their Fate; How You Can Too.' Jessie’s book stands out for its informal, accessible style and its ability to resonate with readers beyond just Jewish or theistic audiences. We discuss what inspired her to write it and how readers struggling with infertility have responded. We also dive into her rational approach to prayer, addressing a common struggle—why pray if God is unchanging? Jessie clarifies what prayer truly is and how it differs from common misconceptions. Exploring biblical narratives, we examine how emotions played a critical role in fertility, from Leah and Rachel’s sibling rivalry to Hannah’s prayers. Jessie shares insights on the connection between emotions, prayer, and transformation, offering lessons that couples facing infertility can apply in their own lives. Finally, we discuss divine intervention and personal agency. Jessie unpacks the Torah’s view on providence and how individuals can actively work on themselves to reshape their path. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation!---• Bio: Whenever Jessie Fischbein visits a new community, she hopes she will get the privilege to learn Torah with them. Jessie taught high school for over twenty years in yeshiva day schools, and she homeschools her children, giving her a unique perspective on Jewish education and learning disabilities. She is the author of the book Infertility in the Bible, about how our Matriarchs handled their challenges and what that means for us, and the book Scandals in the Bible, about some of the most challenging and difficult to understand stories in Tanach. Jessie believes that the Torah's wisdom is eternally relevant and fun to learn and strives to share that wherever she goes.---• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Rod Ilian, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Vasya, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

As our 'Getting to Know the Rishonim' series continues, we explore the towering figure of Rashi with Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel, one of the foremost scholars of medieval Jewish thought. French Jewry produced a remarkable corpus of Torah commentators—from Rashi to Rashbam, Bechor Shor, Rav Yosef Kara, and Hizkuni. What makes this school of biblical interpretation unique, and is there a common thread in their methodologies? We also examine the process by which Rashi’s Torah commentary achieved a near-canonical status—how early did this happen, and why? One of the most debated aspects of Rashi’s legacy is his relationship with Peshuto Shel Mikra. While Rashi famously states that his goal is to explain the simple meaning of the text, he frequently incorporates Aggadah. How should we understand his approach to peshat and his use of Midrash? Are peshat and aggadah fundamentally intertwined in his conception of biblical interpretation? Finally, we discuss whether the way Rashi is studied today aligns with how he originally intended his commentary to be understood. Join us for a fascinating deep dive into Rashi’s methodology, influence, and lasting legacy.---• Bio: Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel is the E. Billi Ivry University Professor of Jewish History, Literature and Law at Yeshiva University, where he teaches and directs doctoral dissertations at the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies. He researches the fields of medieval and early modern Jewish intellectual history and rabbinic literature. Rabbi Kanarfogel received his PhD from Yeshiva University’s Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies and his rabbinical ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary. He is the author or editor of nine books and nearly 100 articles, and is a winner of the National Jewish Book Award, the Association for Jewish Studies’ Jordan Schnitzer Book Prize, and the International Book Award sponsored by the Goldstein-Goren Center for Jewish Thought at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, Rabbi David Wolpe joins us for a thought-provoking conversation about the challenges and opportunities facing the Jewish people today. In the wake of October 7th, intra-faith dialogue is as critical as interfaith dialogue. The Jewish community must find ways to foster understanding, break down barriers, and build unity among diverse perspectives. Rabbi Wolpe reflects on the enduring influence of Maimonides, whose teachings continue to resonate across Jewish movements and explores how his philosophy shapes modern Jewish thought. We discuss the evolution of New Atheism, from Christopher Hitchens to Alex O’Connor, and what this shift means for conversations about faith within the Jewish context. The conversation also delves into culturally religious figures like Dennis Prager and Jordan Peterson, examining whether a meaningful religious message can be upheld without traditional observance. Rabbi Wolpe addresses the hardest questions raised by atheists—about evil, belief, and God’s hiddenness—and shares his vision for making faith relevant and compelling in a skeptical world. This episode challenges us to think deeply about faith, unity, and the future of Judaism. Don’t miss this essential conversation.---• Bio: Named The Most Influential Rabbi in America by Newsweek and one of the 50 Most Influential Jews in the World  by The Jerusalem Post, and twice named one of the 500 Most Influential People in Los Angeles by the Los Angeles Business Journal, David Wolpe is the Max Webb Emeritus Rabbi of Sinai Temple. He serves as the ADL’s inaugural rabbinic fellow and a scholar in residence at the Maimonides Fund. Rabbi Wolpe has taught at Harvard, the Jewish Theological Seminary, the American Jewish University, Hunter College, and UCLA. Rabbi Wolpe has published widely, including in The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, Time, Newsweek and The Atlantic. He has been featured on The Today Show, Face the Nation, ABC This Morning, and CBS This Morning as well as series on PBS, A&E, History Channel, and Discovery Channel, and has engaged in widely watched public debates with Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris, Richard Dawkins, Steven Pinker and many others about religion and its place in the world. Rabbi Wolpe is the author of eight books, including the national bestseller Making Loss Matter: Creating Meaning in Difficult Times (Riverhead). His latest is titled David, the Divided Heart (Yale U Press). It was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Awards, and has been optioned for a movie by Warner Bros.---• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Leadership isn’t just a modern concern—it’s embedded in the DNA of the Torah itself. In this episode, Dr. Erica Brown unpacks the centrality of leadership in Jewish thought, drawing on insights from The Torah of Leadership. She explains why leadership has been a defining theme of her work, how the need for strong leadership has intensified—especially since October 7th—and why the Torah’s challenge to lead is more relevant than ever. We explore how the Torah doesn’t merely contain lessons on leadership but demands leadership at every turn, a truth that often goes unnoticed. Dr. Brown diagnoses why we’ve lost sight of this and offers a path back to seeing leadership as the Torah intends. From the dangers of stubbornness in am k’sheh oref (a stiff-necked people) to the ethical dilemmas of deception in Rivkah and Yaakov’s story, this conversation delves into the profound tensions and moral complexities of leadership. What does it take to lead a people who resist change? When, if ever, do lies serve a higher purpose? Dr. Brown brings clarity, depth, and wisdom to these questions, making the Torah’s leadership lessons impossible to ignore.---• Bio: Dr. Erica Brown is the Vice Provost for Values and Leadership at Yeshiva University and the founding director of its Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks-Herenstein Center for Values and Leadership. She previously served as the director of the Mayberg Center for Jewish Education and Leadership and an associate professor of curriculum and pedagogy at The George Washington University. Erica is the author or co-author of 15 books on leadership, the Hebrew Bible and spirituality. Erica has a daily podcast, “Take Your Soul to Work.” Her book Esther: Power, Fate and Fragility in Exile (Maggid) was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. Her latest book is Kohelet and the Search for Meaning (Maggid). She and her husband live in Maryland and have four children, another four through marriage, and six exquisite grandchildren.---• Get her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Torah-Leadership-Erica-Brown/dp/1592646816/ref=sr_1_1?crid=MFTHQQ4CLKC2&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hLYZuZZvn75pCZotr-6RyN4_8UV3NNF4hrqv3YpP34DGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.RzHMV8wYe07YNizVGST8QU6M6HijexFDycQ7iBfmKG8&dib_tag=se&keywords=erica+brown+torah+of+leadership&qid=1739133039&sprefix=ericA+BROWN+TORAH+%2Caps%2C132&sr=8-1• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

How does Genesis lay the foundation for humanity’s covenantal relationship with God? Rabbi Dr. Zvi Grumet joins us to share insights from his groundbreaking book Genesis: From Creation to Covenant. Together, we explore how the Torah portrays the patriarchs—Avraham, Yitzhak, Yaakov, and Yosef—as central figures in this process, with the recurring use of the word 'toldot' weaving a cohesive narrative of covenantal development. Rabbi Dr. Grumet outlines his unique threefold understanding of history in Genesis and explains how it informs the patriarchal narratives. He also shares how he balances critical analysis with reverence for the text, navigating the distinction between peshat and derash. We discuss the foundational Garden of Eden story in light of the covenantal theme, Avraham’s evolving challenges from Lekh Lekha to Va’era, and Yitzchak’s role as a transitional figure in the covenant. The conversation also delves into Yaakov’s personal and relational struggles, the pivotal role Rachel plays in shaping the covenantal legacy, and the reconciliation of Yosef and his brothers as a powerful culmination of Genesis. Through this discussion, Rabbi Dr. Grumet brings new depth to the familiar stories of Genesis, showing how they chart the unfolding of God’s covenant with humanity and the enduring lessons they hold for us today. --- • Bio: Rabbi Dr. Zvi Grumet is a master Bible teacher who lectures widely across the English-speaking world. Having earned his rabbinic ordination and Ed.D. at Yeshiva University, Rabbi Grumet dedicated the first eighteen years of his career to teaching Torah and leading educational institutions in the US. Today, he teaches at Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, the Pardes Institute, and Hebrew College in Boston. He is also a senior staff member at The Lookstein Center for Jewish Education, where he is editor of Jewish Educational Leadership and generates initiatives to help advance Jewish education on four continents. --- • Get his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Genesis-Creation-Covenant-Zvi-Grumet/dp/1592644775 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with architect and author Joshua Skarf to discuss his fascinating book, ArchitecTorah: Architectural Ideas in Judaism and the Weekly Torah Portion. Skarf offers a unique perspective on how the principles of architecture and engineering can deepen our understanding of Torah, shedding new light on iconic narratives and themes. We explore the inspiration behind his work and the four categories into which the book is organized, each demonstrating the profound connections between architecture and Torah study. Together, we dive into key chapters, including a fresh look at the burning bush through an architectural lens, how brickmaking in Egypt informs our understanding of the Israelites' labor, and the role of wind patterns in the splitting of the sea. The conversation continues with insights on the prohibition against graven images and its connection to architecture, how ancient urban planning enriches the narrative of the Israelites inheriting Canaanite cities, and the interplay between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, offering a compelling juxtaposition of architectural and spiritual insights. Join us for this thought-provoking discussion as Joshua Skarf bridges the worlds of design and divinity, offering readers and listeners a new way to engage with the Torah. --- • Bio: Joshua Skarf is a licensed architect living and working in Jerusalem. He studied in Yeshivat Har Etzion and has degrees in architecture from the University of Michigan and the Bezalel Academy of Art & Design. He has designed hospitals, train stations, shopping malls, Israeli consulates, elementary schools, museums, and research facilities in Israel. Skarf was born in Toronto, grew up in Michigan, and has been living in Israel since 2004. --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

What drives individuals to leave the Orthodox path, and how have modern influences like digital culture shaped this phenomenon? Rabbi David Aaron addresses these pressing questions and more, offering profound insights into the challenges and opportunities facing Orthodox Judaism today. This episode delves into the emotional and relational struggles families experience when a loved one chooses a different path, providing practical guidance for navigating these complex dynamics. Rabbi Aaron also explores how Orthodox communities can foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for those questioning their faith or lifestyle. We discuss the role of education in addressing doubts and encouraging open dialogue about God and Torah observance and examine how individuals and organizations can best support those transitioning away from or back into the Orthodox community. Finally, we reflect on the broader lessons to be learned from the "Off the Derekh" phenomenon, highlighting its implications for the evolving relationship between faith, community, and personal identity in the modern world. In a time when nearly every family is touched by these challenges, this conversation offers essential perspectives and practical solutions. --- • Bio: Rabbi Aaron received his rabbinic ordination for Yeshivat ITRI. He is the Co-Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta. Additionally, he offers Jewish educational programs in Israel and abroad, including Educators Enrichment, Leadership Training, Executive Seminars, Spiritual Retreats, and Immersive Experiences. Rabbi Aaron is the author of eight ‘paradigm-shifting’ books: Endless Light, Seeing G-d, Love is My Religion, The Secret Life of G-d, Soul Powered Prayers, Inviting G-d In, Living a Joyous Life, and The G-d-Powered Life. (Several books have been translated into Portuguese, Spanish, Russian, and Hebrew.). Rabbi Aaron lives in Jerusalem with his wife, Chana, and their seven children and grandchildren. --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

We’re thrilled to welcome Reb Zvi Goldstein to the podcast for an in-depth exploration of three monumental topics in Jewish thought: Mashiach, Olam Haba, and Techiyat HaMetim. These concepts are often conflated, particularly in discussions about reuniting with loved ones who’ve passed away. The Rambam delves deep into each category, and we’re here to untangle these ideas and gain a clearer understanding of his views. We start with the Rambam’s take on Mashiach, delving into what it means for Mashiach to be the natural consequence of mitzvot and the proof required to recognize him. Is Mashiach an actual king, a political leader, or something else? How do Eliyahu HaNavi, the rebuilding of the Beit HaMikdash, and the Sanhedrin fit into this vision? And what about resurrection—does it precede or follow Mashiach’s arrival? Reb Zvi helps us piece together these intricate layers of Jewish eschatology. We also explore the Rambam’s perspective on Olam Haba, including his view of the eternal soul as pure information and the urgency of maximizing our one chance at life. We discuss the risks of literalism in mystical texts like the Zohar and how Lurianic Kabbalah has reshaped perceptions of Jewish esotericism. Finally, we tackle the controversial topic of korbanot in the Messianic era. The Rambam’s view—that animal sacrifices serve an essential psychological and spiritual purpose—has been the dominant position in Jewish tradition. In contrast, Rav Kook’s vision of evolving toward vegetarian offerings stands as a modern and less widely accepted perspective. Together, we examine the tension between these views, the enduring relevance of sacrifices, and the profound lessons they teach about human nature and divine law. This episode will challenge your assumptions and provide plenty of food for thought. --- • Bio: Zvi Goldstein, known by his pen name xvi Kaizen, is a distinguished thinker at the intersection of traditional Jewish scholarship and contemporary rational thought. As the Principal of Ontic Capital, an algorithmic trading firm, Zvi combines analytical rigor and economic insight with his philosophical pursuits. Zvi holds a BA from Hebrew Theological College and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. His academic journey is enriched by Talmudic studies at Yeshiva University, Yeshivat Har Etzion, Hebrew Theological College, and Yeshivat Maor Tuvia in Mitzpe Yericho. Zvi teaches a rational approach to Judaism, drawing inspiration primarily from Maimonides' Guide for the Perplexed. His notable work, "Summary of the Guide for the Perplexed," aims to make Maimonides' ideas accessible by distilling the main points of the work into clear and concise discussions. Zvi argues that this philosophy offers relevant approaches to many contemporary issues of faith in the modern world. Zvi finds personal fulfillment in his life with his wife Sari and their children in Puerto Rico. --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with Channah Cohen, author of Guardians of the Flame: A Historical Fiction About the Wars of the Maccabim, to explore the inspiration behind her novel set during the time of the Maccabees. Channah shares how her work connects to the idea of reviving "heroes" in Jewish culture and discusses her take on the "shiddukh crisis," addressing the absence of compelling male figures in Jewish literature. We dive into the creation of her protagonist, Gilad, and the impact she hopes his character will have on young male readers. As a self-proclaimed "purist," Channah reveals the challenges of balancing historical accuracy with crafting an engaging narrative and shares how her research reshaped her understanding of Hanukkah. Drawing on Rav Hirsch’s description of the Hanukkah story as embodying the "unflagging Jewish spirit," Channah explains how this theme is woven into her narrative and its relevance to modern readers. Finally, she reflects on the message she hopes readers take away from Guardians of the Flame and teases the possibility of sequels or future projects. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on Jewish history, literature, and the timeless search for inspiration in our heritage. Don’t miss it! --- • Bio: Channah Cohen is a Senior Educator for Yavneh YP, the young professional leadership division of the OU's Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC). Previous to this, she worked for the Center for Communal Research as the applied researcher on their large-scale mixed-methods research study on the "Shidduch Crisis". She is the author of the new book "Guardians of the Flame", a historical novel about the epic real-life heroes behind the Chanukah story. Channah has a master's in Adult Learning and Leadership from Columbia University and lives in Silver Spring, MD with her husband and children. --- • Get her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Guardians-Flame-historical-fiction-Maccabim/dp/1962522172 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Simi Lerner to explore the enduring relevance of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, a thinker whose insights into faith, identity, and modernity deserve far more attention. Rav Hirsch’s teachings, though often overlooked, offer a powerful framework for modern Jews striving to live with purpose and clarity in a complex world. Rabbi Lerner reflects on his personal connection to Rav Hirsch’s revolutionary ideas and explains why he is passionate about bringing them to a wider audience. We dive into Rav Hirsch’s unique approach to aggadic literature and midrash, his masterful engagement with science, and his ability to harmonize faith and reason. Rabbi Lerner also shares examples of Rav Hirsch’s stunning interpretations of the weekly parasha, showcasing the brilliance and depth of his thought. This conversation is a reminder that Rav Hirsch’s wisdom is not just timeless—it’s timely, offering profound insights for anyone seeking to live a meaningful Jewish life today. --- • Bio: Originally from Edgware, UK, Rabbi Simi Lerner now lives in Bet Shemesh, Israel, with his wife, Rivka, and their four sons. He teaches Jewish philosophy at several institutions, including Midreshet Rachel, Midreshet Tehilla, and Shapells, and serves as Senior Educator for Lema'an Achai. Rabbi Lerner hosts the podcast Judaism from Within and 2 Rabbis 3 Opinions, shares video discussions with his wife on Facebook, and lectures online. In addition to his scholarly work, he works as a licensed electrician, teaches woodworking, and works part-time as a science teacher at a local primary school. • Check out his 2 podcasts here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5XqnWJWjgLusI6tJ35wd0P https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/two-rabbis-three-opinions/id1707357552 https://outorah.org/series/4128/ • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Join us as we sit down with Rabbi Gil Student to explore his groundbreaking work in Jewish thought and scholarship. We begin with his journey as the founder of the influential Hirhurim/Torah Musings blog, delving into the motivations behind creating this pioneering platform and its lasting impact on the Jewish intellectual landscape in the internet era. Rabbi Student shares insights from his latest book, Articles of Faith, where he examines Judaism's nuanced stance on other religions, drawing on Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ thought-provoking perspectives in The Dignity of Difference. We also tackle the controversy surrounding Rabbi Sacks’ view of "ger" as a stranger, seemingly contrasting the traditional rabbinic understanding of "ger" as a convert. Rabbi Student gets into the sources and makes a compelling argument in support of Rabbi Sacks' position. Finally, we navigate the intersection of Torah and science, addressing Rabbi Meiselman’s assertion of unanimity among classical authorities and exploring whether there is room for diverse opinions within the framework of Jewish tradition. While we couldn’t cover everything in one session, Rabbi Student’s critique of Rabbi Marc Shapiro’s approach to mesorah is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of this essential topic. Tune in for a fascinating discussion that teases some of the most insightful topics in Rabbi Student's new book. --- • Bio: Rabbi Gil Student is the Publisher and Editor-inChief of TorahMusings.com. He writes frequently in Jewish newspapers and magazines, serving as a regular contributor to Jewish Action , The Jewish Link of New Jersey , The Jewish Echo , and The Vues . Rabbi Student serves as Director of the Halacha Commission of the Rabbinical Alliance of America, on the Editorial Board of the Orthodox Union’s Jewish Action magazine, and as the magazine’s Book Editor. --- • Check out his legendary blog here: https://www.torahmusings.com/author/gilstudent/ --- • Get his new book here: https://www.amazon.com/Articles-Faith-Traditional-Jewish-Internet/dp/B0DJ1459L4/ref=sr_1_1?crid=13N0YL37TEWU4&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Q9w4GgOy9zsv9GVcE5MT1ECIhrkN6_FprakUwljAB6DTwa0ply-57yMsA-59s6t2_x6BFo3rJQeU5ARZi4iNwJ3VoXVEdH5NdqyMtVeJdUSTIqh0zlHU1d6rxblFeKMJaR9tBHI-paLCltSrifG8eWLbHgt_83QmjZcq8Iu1Bk-9MJwvF74k6f5yiOI1s0TRd70n9BHOyyukKKkXs-lgge3c1k7VlrfQ-r7jF0Dpsk0.EVaaaL0PuomCgxbni0ketXBgVpLSpNwBRmHHkvFId_k&dib_tag=se&keywords=articles+of+faith+STUDENT&qid=1733066670&sprefix=articles+of+faith+student%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-1 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In his third appearance on the show, Rabbi Abe H. Faur joins us for a thought-provoking conversation about the evolving dynamics of leadership and tradition within the Jewish community. We begin by examining the concepts of "Gedolim" and "Daas Torah," cornerstones of Haredi influence. Rabbi Faur shares his perspective on whether these ideas align with Torah values and how they shape the Haredi community's approach to authority and decision-making. Next, we turn to the groundbreaking work of his father, Hakham Yosef Faur a'h, and his seminal book Horizontal Society. Rabbi Faur explains the essence of the Horizontal Society concept, its roots in our mesorah, and how it contrasts with the hierarchical, dynastic structures that dominate today. He also unpacks the idea of "Alphabetic Judaism," offering a powerful vision for the Jewish nation rooted in Sepharadi tradition and standing in stark contrast to Greek philosophical and societal frameworks. Finally, we address the challenges faced by his father, Hakham Faur, in his mission to revive and preserve the traditions of Old Sepharad, particularly in the face of opposition from the "black hat" community. Rabbi Faur reflects on his father’s legacy, his unwavering commitment to authenticity, and the personal struggles he endured. In closing, Rabbi Faur shares his thoughts on the future of Judaism and whether he remains hopeful in light of these challenges. This episode is a heartfelt and inspiring tribute to a towering legacy and a powerful call for introspection as a nation. --- • Bio: Rabbi Abe H. Faur is the rabbi of Congregation Ohel David & Shelomo, in Manhattan Beach, NY. Rabbi Faur was ordained by Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu and Rabbi Abraham Shapira. He teaches Talmudic and Rabbinic thinking in accordance with the Andalusian sages, and the teachings of his father, the Great Hakham José Faur a"h. His father was a Sepharadi rabbi, teacher and scholar in the Syrian-Jewish community in Brooklyn for many years. He was also a professor at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, and Bar Ilan University, and was Professor of Law at Netanya Academic College. Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu once said "the greatest Sephardic Hakham living in the US today is Rabbi Faur" and his books and articles continue to have a tremendous impact in both religious and academic circles around the world. You can find his shiurim on his YouTube channel, @toratandalus4535 . --- • Yafe Be'ito, meaning "nice in its time" in Hebrew, is a foundation devoted to spreading the profound Torah teachings of Hakham Dr. José Faur: https://yafebeito.com/ --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we are honored to welcome back Rabbi Moshe Taragin to discuss his latest book, Reclaiming Redemption: Deciphering the Maze of Jewish History. This profound work examines the progression of Jewish history toward its ultimate goal—redemption—exploring how prophecies, the teachings of Chazal, and historical events shape our understanding of geulah as both a process and a principle of Jewish belief. Our conversation delves into the role of collective identity in sustaining the Jewish people, the unique influence of the Land of Israel on our spiritual lives, and how Jewish values have been historically twisted to fuel antisemitism. We also explore the tension between messianic hope and the actions that undermine it, as well as the profound question of whether redemption or repentance must come first.  Join us for a deeply engaging and thought-provoking discussion that not only illuminates the challenges and triumphs of Jewish history but also explores the critical role of Jewish identity in shaping our future, especially in light of the profound shifts post-October 7th. Rabbi Taragin provides profound insights into the redemptive journey, inspiring us to reflect on how the struggles and resilience of our collective past inform our spiritual bond with the Land of Israel and our ongoing connection with God. This conversation challenges us to consider how recent events will redefine our purpose as a people and the unfolding process of geulah in our generation. --- • Bio: An alumnus of Har Etzion, Rav Moshe Taragin '83 has been a Ram at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Gush Etzion since 1994. He has Semikha from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, a BA in Computer Science from Yeshiva College, and an MA in English Literature from City University. Rabbi Taragin previously taught Talmud at Columbia University, lectured in Talmud and Bible at the IBC and JSS divisions of Yeshiva University, and served as Assistant Rabbi at the Fifth Avenue Synagogue. In addition, Rabbi Taragin currently teaches at the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women of Yeshivat Har Etzion in Migdal Oz in Gush Etzion. --- • Get his book here: https://mosaicapress.com/product/reclaiming-redemption/ --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we welcome back David Curwin to discuss his recent essay, "Rabbi Eliezer Berkovits and Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik: Neighbors Behind Fences," published in Hakirah: The Flatbush Journal of Jewish Law and Thought. Curwin’s essay explores the lives and legacies of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik and Rabbi Eliezer Berkovits, two of the 20th century’s most influential Orthodox Jewish thinkers. While their biographies are strikingly similar, their legacies have taken dramatically different paths. Rabbi Soloveitchik’s impact endures strongly in Modern Orthodoxy, while Rabbi Berkovits remains relatively overlooked, though his philosophy offers urgent relevance today. Curwin guides us through a comparative analysis of their philosophical approaches, examining how each viewed the role of history, the purpose of halakha, and taamei hamitzvot (the reasons for the commandments). He shares unique insights into their different understandings of evil, particularly the Shoah, and the distinctive ways each thinker approached the nature and purpose of halakha itself. As we conclude, Curwin reflects on why Rabbi Soloveitchik’s legacy remains prominent, while Rabbi Berkovits’ contributions are still waiting for their due recognition. This conversation offers an illuminating perspective on why Rabbi Berkovits’ message is increasingly vital to Orthodoxy today, making this episode a must-listen for those interested in Jewish philosophy and contemporary Orthodox thought. --- • Bio: David Curwin is an independent scholar who has researched and published widely on Bible, Jewish thought and philosophy, and Hebrew language. His writings, both academic and popular, have appeared in periodicals such as Tradition, Hakirah, and Jewish Bible Quarterly, and he blogs about language topics at Balashon.com. Curwin studied at Yeshivat HaKibbutz HaDati and currently works as a technical writer in the software industry. Born in Massachusetts, he has lived in Rochester, New York, and San Francisco, but has made his home in Israel since 1996. He resides in Efrat with his wife and family. Kohelet: A Map to Eden is his first book. --- • Get his book here: https://korenpub.com/products/kohelet-a-map-to-eden --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Renowned Christian philosopher and theologian Dr. Paul Copan joins us to explore our shared values and address the ethical questions people are faced with when reading the Bible. He discusses how modern readers often overlook the Torah’s revolutionary impact by viewing it solely through a contemporary lens, which strips it of historical context. Together, we examine the Mosaic laws in contrast to other ancient laws, like the Code of Hammurabi, revealing just how transformative the Torah was within its pagan surroundings. Dr. Copan shares his approach to interpreting morally challenging passages, applying a “charitability and Golden Rule” perspective that uncovers the depths in the Torah’s narratives. Dr. Copan provides a nuanced understanding focused on careful textual analysis. He highlights the Bible’s distinct stance on slavery, distinguishing it from the brutal chattel slavery of later times and showing how Judeo-Christian values contributed to its eventual abolition. Naysayers and skeptics are challenged to rethink their preconceived notions about the Torah, especially regarding topics like divine justice, slavery, capital punishment, the Wayward Son, the Sotah ritual, and other often misunderstood sections. What are we to make of what appears to be God's call to wipe out Canaanites and Amalekites? How do we understand the massive loss of life decreed by God in the Great Flood and the death of the Egyptian first-born? This is a discussion you don't want to miss. --- • Bio: Paul Copan (Ph.D., Philosophy, Marquette University) is a Christian theologian, analytic philosopher, apologist, and author. He is currently a professor at the Palm Beach Atlantic University (Florida) and holds the endowed Pledger Family Chair of Philosophy and Ethics. He is author or editor of nearly 50 books, including the very popular, strong-selling book Is God a Moral Monster? as well as its companion volume, the award-winning Is God a Vindictive Bully? He is coeditor of The Routledge Companion to Philosophy of Religion, The Naturalness of Theistic Belief, Philosophy of Religion: Classic and Contemporary Issues, and The Kalām Cosmological Argument (a two-volume anthology). He is coauthor of Creation out of Nothing and Biblical Ethics: Walking in the Way of Wisdom. He has also contributed essays to over 60 books, both scholarly and popular, and he has authored a number of articles in professional journals. In 2017 and 2024, he has been a Visiting Scholar at the University of Oxford (Wycliffe Hall and Oriel College). For six years, he served as president of the Evangelical Philosophical Society. He also helped establish the PBA's M.A. in Philosophy of Religion; PBA also a B.A. in Apologetics, and it offers a Program in Cultural Apologetics (which is heavily scholarshiped). He is co-chair of Tyndale Fellowship's Philosophy of Religion Study Group, which meets every summer in England. Paul is married to Jacqueline, and they have six children. --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum offers a refreshingly different approach to the deep questions of faith, one that immediately stands out from the typical answers often heard in outreach settings. For those who think critically and seek more than surface-level responses, his intellectual honesty and respect for scientific thought set him apart. In our conversation, we explore how Rabbi Zarum confronts issues like the compatibility of creation and evolution, the historicity of the flood story, and grappling with belief in the modern era, without shying away from the intellectual rigor such topics require. He engages directly with scientific perspectives and provides answers that are not only rooted in traditional Jewish thought but also show a deep respect for modern scientific inquiry. His responses invite reflection and dialogue, rather than offering neat conclusions, making his approach especially valuable for those who are unsatisfied with overly simplistic explanations. Rabbi Zarum’s method bridges the gap between faith and reason, allowing for a more sophisticated, thoughtful exploration of belief that resonates with individuals who crave both intellectual honesty and spiritual depth. His work acknowledges that doubt isn't something to be brushed aside, but rather, it can lead to a more profound and mature faith. As his mentor, the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, said, "Faith is the courage to live with uncertainty." (A special thank you goes out to our dear friend and podcast guest, Daniel Jonas, for setting this up). --- • Bio: Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum is Dean of the London School of Jewish Studies (LSJS), formerly known as Jews’ College, where he holds the Rabbi Sacks Chair of Modern Jewish Thought, established by the Zandan family. He also serves as Scholar-in-Residence at the Central Square Minyan in Hampstead Garden Suburb. He has a PhD in Theoretical Physics from King’s College London, an MA in Education from University College London, rabbinic ordination from Rabbi Sacks zt”l and the Montefiore Kollel, and is a graduate of the Mandel Leadership School in Jerusalem. His writings on Bible, philosophy, education, and Jewish life regularly appear in the Jewish press, academic journals, and book collections. www.lsjs.ac.uk --- • Get his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Questioning-Belief-Torah-Tradition-Doubt/dp/1592646190 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Rabbi Steven Pruzansky to explore the rich themes of his latest book, "Repentance for Life" (Kodesh Press). Rabbi Pruzansky begins by sharing the inspiration behind the book, including the significant impact of his teacher, Rabbi Yisroel Chait. We then delve into the chapter "Repentance and the Land of Israel," where Rabbi Pruzansky sheds light on the deep connection between teshuva and the Land of Israel. Our conversation continues with an exploration of "Repentance and Suffering," as Rabbi Pruzansky unpacks the crucial lessons he hopes readers will grasp about the transformative power of suffering in the process of repentance. Finally, we dive into the symbolism of the Yom Kippur scapegoat and its profound relationship to teshuva, as outlined in the chapter "Repentance and the Yom Kippur Scapegoat." Whether you're deeply familiar with these topics or just beginning to explore them, this episode offers thought-provoking insights and reflections that will help you get into the right mindset as we approach Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur. --- • Bio: Rabbi Steven Pruzansky is Rabbi Emeritus of Congregation Bnai Yeshurun of Teaneck, New Jersey, where he served from 1994–2020 when he made Aliyah. He currently serves as Israel Region Vice President of the Coalition for Jewish Values and as Senior Rabbinic Scholar at Yeshivat Migdal HaTorah in Modi’in. He is a graduate of Columbia University (BA in History), earned his law degree at Cardozo School of Law and practiced law in New York City for 13 years. Rabbi Pruzansky is a musmach of Yeshiva Bnei Torah under the guidance of Rav Yisroel Chait. Rabbi Pruzansky resides in Modi’in. --- • Get his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Repentance-Life-Steven-Pruzansky/dp/1947857703#:~:text=Repentance%20for%20Life%20explores%20eighteen --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this insightful episode, we welcome Rabbi Yaakov Beasley to discuss his book "Joel, Obadiah, and Micah: Facing the Storm," part of the acclaimed Maggid Studies in Tanakh series. Rabbi Beasley begins by sharing his background and what inspired him to write this work. He also introduces the Gush Tanakh Method for listeners unfamiliar with it, before directly addressing JJ Kimche’s criticisms from our previous interview. We then dive into the etymology and role of a נביא (prophet) and explore how we should understand prophecies that seem to have gone unfulfilled. Rabbi Beasley identifies three key reasons why modern readers often struggle to connect with the writings of the prophets, while also providing a brief history of Yisrael and Yehudah, essential for understanding the prophets' messages. Next, we turn to the specific prophets discussed in his book. Rabbi Beasley elaborates on why Yoel is particularly challenging to interpret, offering insights into the various opinions about when and where he prophesied. We also examine Ovadiah's sharp condemnation of Edom, exploring the debates about the date, authorship, and audience of his prophecies. Finally, we delve into the life and message of the prophet Micah, discussing what sets him apart from other prophets and how his unique style enhances our understanding of his book. To close, Rabbi Beasley gives us a preview of his upcoming work on the prophets Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of the biblical prophets and their relevance today. --- • Bio: Rabbi Yaakov Beasley is the Tanakh Coordinator at Yeshivat Lev haTorah and completed a doctorate on the book of Micah at Bar Ilan University. He is the author of "Nahum, Habakkuk, and Zephaniah: Lights in the Valley" and "Joel, Obadiah, and Micah: Facing the Storm" for the Maggid Studies in Tanakh series. Rav Yaakov has been teaching and writing about Tanakh for over twenty years. A popular lecturer around Jerusalem and Israel, including such yeshivot as Matan, Darchei Noam, Midreshet Rachel, and others, he co-edited Yeshivat Har Etzion's groundbreaking series "Torah MiEtzion" on the application of new literary methodologies to the study of parashat ha-shavua. Additionally, he authored several years of Har Etzion's Virtual Beit Midrash Introduction to the Parasha series, and his articles on Tanakh have appeared in Tradition and other publications. --- • Get his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Joel-Obadiah-Micah-Facing-Storm/dp/1592645976 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Prepare for a timely, sensitive, and important conversation as Rav Abe Faur makes his much-anticipated return to the podcast. In the wake of the traumatic and transformative attacks on October 7th, Hakham Faur has become increasingly vocal on social media, especially regarding issues within the Haredi community. He shares why these events compelled him to speak out more openly and discusses how this moment has shifted his approach to leadership and advocacy. We dive into the contentious issue of military service, a major point of friction between the Haredi community and the state of Israel. Despite some Haredim volunteering after the attacks, the majority have not, and many leaders continue to oppose involvement with the IDF, even in times of war, while still benefiting from state resources. Hakham Faur responds to these leaders and the arguments they use, such as "Shevet Levi did not go out to war" and "our Torah study protects all," to justify their stance against national service. Hakham Faur explains why the argument for Haredi antizionism is now irrelevant, emphasizing that we are at the point where all Jews are fighting for their survival. He contextualizes the reasons behind the Haredi community's misguided stance on Israel, offers analysis on how the modern state can improve by learning from past mistakes, and discusses how the kollel movement has strayed from true Torah values and halakha. He stresses that while God may protect us from external harm, He does not shield us from our own folly. This episode promises to offer deep insights into the future of Israel, the role of hakhamim, and the pressing need for courageous leadership in times of crisis. --- • Bio: Rabbi Abe H. Faur is the rabbi of Congregation Ohel David & Shelomo, in Manhattan Beach, NY. Rabbi Faur was ordained by Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu and Rabbi Abraham Shapira. He teaches Talmudic and Rabbinic thinking in accordance with the Andalusian sages, and the teachings of his father, the Great Hakham José Faur a"h. His father was a Sepharadi rabbi, teacher and scholar in the Syrian-Jewish community in Brooklyn for many years. He was also a professor at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, and Bar Ilan University, and was Professor of Law at Netanya Academic College. Rabbi Mordechai Eliyahu once said "the greatest Sephardic Hakham living in the US today is Rabbi Faur" and his books and articles continue to have a tremendous impact in both religious and academic circles around the world. You can find his shiurim on his YouTube channel, Torat Andalus. --- • Yafe Be'ito, meaning "nice in its time" in Hebrew, is a foundation devoted to spreading the profound Torah teachings of Hakham Dr. José Faur: https://yafebeito.com/ --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Avi Grossman to explore the complexities of Halakha and its relevance to contemporary Jewish life. Rabbi Grossman begins by discussing why "Demystifying Halakha" is crucial for understanding and practicing Judaism today. We dive into the idea that the entire Torah was always meant to be practiced, a concept that significantly shapes our understanding of Halakha. Rabbi Grossman explains how Maimonides' Mishneh Torah stands out from other halakhic codes, particularly in its detailed guidance on practices like observing Passover with a paschal lamb and instructions for when it is not available. Rabbi Grossman further elaborates on the Mishneh Torah's intention to serve as a complete legal code for all generations and all aspects of Halakha. We also discuss the Vilna Gaon's role in reviving “orphaned” commandments, understanding the importance of these commandments, and their impact on Halakhic practice. The conversation shifts to the importance of maintaining a critical approach to halakhic issues, questioning the automatic precedence given to later authorities. We explore the significance of national obligations and self-governance in Halakha, questioning why these aspects may have fallen out of common practice. Finally, Rabbi Grossman challenges the “fallen-out-of-use” fallacy, addressing the belief that if certain practices are no longer observed, it must be by divine will. You don't want to miss this fascinating discussion. --- • Bio: Rabbi Avi Grossman brings a diverse and rich background to our discussion on Halakha. He holds a BS in Biology from Queens College of the City University of New York and an MBA from Jerusalem College of Technology in Israel, with teaching credentials from the David Yellin Academic College of Education in Jerusalem. Ordained by both Beis Medrash L’Talmud and Rabbi Abba Bronspiegel, Rabbi Grossman is the director of the Torah L’Maaseh program at Yeshivat Ramot in Jerusalem and is widely recognized for his shiurim on Machon Shilo's YouTube channel. Additionally, he serves as a senior editor for the Steinsaltz Center’s Tanakh publication project and is the founder of Torah Le’Maaseh. Rabbi Grossman is also the author of *Haggadat Hapesach*, a unique Passover Haggadah that emphasizes the Paschal offering as the centerpiece of the Seder. His extensive academic and rabbinical achievements, coupled with his commitment to Jewish education, make him a compelling authority on the application of Halakha in contemporary Jewish life. --- • Get his book here: amazon.com/Haggadat-Hapesah-Seder-Korban-Pesach/dp/9655983463/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CIJSwOCOZ3sr7hqWqNcPLQ.XIiYVRpH_r5_wch1f9AtgPGXGj0ztjJ7mUy4gerlrWg&dib_tag=se&qid=1725332248&refinements=p_27%3ARabbi+Avi+Grossman&s=books&sr=1-1&text=Rabbi+Avi+Grossman --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this highly anticipated episode, we sit down with Rabbi Chaim Eisen and Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein to explore some of the most critical theological questions in Jewish thought. The conversation begins with an in-depth discussion on God's Oneness and Uniqueness, particularly through the lens of the phrase "Ein Od Milvado" ("There is nothing other than Him"), which is often misrepresented nowadays to suggest that all is God and God is all. We then address a recent viral campaign by a popular rabbi claiming that "God needs us." Our guests critically examine the dangers of interpreting Torah in ways that anthropomorphize God. They thereby challenge the controversial (and heretical) position currently popular in some circles that advocates rejecting classic Jewish theology by branding it a supposed attempt to read the Torah through "Greek eyes." The discussion also delves into the neo-Kabbalistic and Hasidic belief in Panentheism—the idea that the universe emerged from God and remains inherently united with His being—and whether this belief crosses into what some traditionalists might consider to be "spiritual polytheism." Rabbi Eisen and Rabbi Adlerstein offer their unique perspectives, presenting different angles on these complex issues. They also tackle the misconception that the human soul is a literal piece of God, and the question of whether the Shekhina represents God's actual presence in the physical realm. Join us for this profound theological reflection on arguably the most fundamental aspect of Judaism: Knowing Hashem (more accurately, what He is not) in order to serve Him properly. --- • Bio: Rabbi Chaim Eisen is the founder and dean of Yeshivath Sharashim – Zion Bible Studies, a Web-based educational venture to engage users worldwide in a deepening understanding of the Hebrew Bible and other religious classics, through live, recorded, and written content. An acclaimed speaker, he’s been stimulating audiences throughout Israel, North America, and Europe for over 40 years. For nearly all his career, he’s been involved in adult education, principally as a senior rabbinical lecturer at the Orthodox Union (OU) Jerusalem World Center, where he taught for more than 36 years. For over 20 years, he also taught Talmud and Midrash, Biblical commentary, and especially Jewish thought and philosophy at various yeshivot in Israel. In addition, he served as a Torah lecturer in the Israel Defense Forces Rabbinate Torah Lecture Corps (reserves), for over 16 years, and continued to volunteer there, after his retirement. Besides teaching, he was founding editor of the OU journal 'Jewish Thought: A Journal of Torah Scholarship' and has written and edited numerous essays in this field. Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein is the Director of Interfaith Affairs for the Simon Wiesenthal Center. He also serves as a faculty member at Yeshiva of Los Angeles and its high schools, and holds the Sydney M. Irmas Chair in Jewish Law and Ethics at Loyola Law School. Rabbi Adlerstein is a contributing editor of the quarterly Jewish Action, as well as its regular computer columnist. His essays have appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Present Tense, Tradition, Shma, the Los Angeles Daily Law Journal, and a host of Jewish and general printed and electronic media. He was frequently heard on KABC’s Religion on the Line, and appears often in the printed media as a voice of traditional Judaism. He co-hosted Rabbis With Attitude, a weekly radio program. His Be’er Hagolah, the classic defense of rabbinic Judaism by Maharal of Prague, was published by Artscroll/Mesorah Publications. Rabbi Adlerstein received his ordination from the Chofetz Chaim yeshiva in New York. He is a summa cum laude graduate of Queens College, and a member of Phi Beta Kappa. --- • Check out his channel: https://www.youtube.com/@UC6hfscHFb9At83OFRw9yE6A --- • Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Join us as we sit down with Rabbi Moshe Taragin to explore his deeply thought-provoking book, "Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below." We begin by delving into the motivations behind his writing and how recent tragedies have influenced his approach to discussing faith and doubt in the modern world. Rabbi Taragin opens up about the importance of validating feelings of doubt and anger during times of crisis, stressing how crucial it is for religious leaders to acknowledge these emotions within their communities. We also learn about Rav Yehuda Amital, a towering figure in Rabbi Taragin’s life, whose influence is felt throughout the book. The conversation turns to the unique relationship between belief in Hashem and human effort, particularly in the context of serving in the IDF. Rabbi Taragin provides insight into how these two concepts are reconciled in religious life and what it means for soldiers balancing their faith with their duties. --- • Bio: An alumnus of Har Etzion, Rav Moshe Taragin '83 has been a Ram at Yeshivat Har Etzion in Gush Etzion since 1994. He has Semikha from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, a BA in Computer Science from Yeshiva College, and an MA in English Literature from City University. Rabbi Taragin previously taught Talmud at Columbia University, lectured in Talmud and Bible at the IBC and JSS divisions of Yeshiva University, and served as Assistant Rabbi at the Fifth Avenue Synagogue. In addition, Rabbi Taragin currently teaches at the Stella K. Abraham Beit Midrash for Women of Yeshivat Har Etzion in Migdal Oz in Gush Etzion. --- • Find his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Clouds-Above-Faith-Below/dp/B0D2KP37WX --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with comedian and musician Ami Kozak, host of the Ami's House podcast and member of the band Distant Cousins, to delve into the nuances of his career and unique perspective as an orthodox Jew in the comedy world. We explore what initially drew him to comedy and the pivotal moments that solidified his path in the industry. Ami shares his thoughts on why there's a disproportionate number of Jewish comedians and how his Jewish identity shapes his material. We also discuss the challenges of navigating the comedy scene while staying true to his faith. Ami offers insight into the vital role of comedy in society, especially in tackling serious issues and pushing the boundaries of free speech. We then shift focus to his unexpected journey into Jewish activism, spurred by the events of October 7th, and his approach to engaging with audiences that hold opposing views. Ami also delivers a powerful message for young American Jews and non-Jews in the face of rising global antisemitism and antizionism. In a fun twist, Ami takes on the personas of various well-known figures, including Jordan Peterson, Donald Trump, and Prince Harry, in a rapid-fire Q&A segment. He hilariously and thoughtfully addresses questions on finding meaning in chaotic times, the current political climate, cultural shifts, and more. This episode is a blend of humor, introspection, and timely social commentary that you won't want to miss. --- • Bio: Versatile musician and comedian Ami Kozak is a well-established artist. As a composer and singer-songwriter, he is a member of the indie-pop band Distant Cousins, which he formed in 2013 with bandmates Dov Rosenblatt and Duvid Swirsky. The band's music has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials over the years, garnering a worldwide following. Born and raised in Englewood, New Jersey, Kozak began studying music under renowned producer, guitarist, and percussionist Ray Ippolito. He pursued his passion at Berklee College of Music in Boston, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree, studying a broad range of genres, film scoring, arrangement, and music recording and engineering. Now a highly sought-after artist, Kozak is fast becoming a rising star. From the single “Are You Ready (on Your Own)” appearing in the How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World trailer to “Raise it Up” featuring in Criminal Minds, Kozak's versatility has fueled a remarkable career. With his unique style as a composer, bassist, vocalist, songwriter, and performer, Kozak continues to push boundaries and sharpen his craft. He's also known for his hilarious J-Sketch Comedy skits with fellow Orthodox Jewish comedians Mikey Greenblatt and Eli Lebowicz. An incredibly talented comedian and impressionist, Kozak has accumulated over 200,000 TikTok followers and over 8 million TikTok likes. His online videos have taken social media by storm, amassing millions of views on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. Kozak has been featured on Sky News, The Daily Wire, and numerous other high-profile news segments and podcasts. His appearances on the Candace Owens podcast have generated significant media buzz, and his advocacy for Am Yisrael makes him one of the most important voices in the modern Jewish world. --- • Find Ami here: @AmisHousePod / @aj-comedy / @jsketch613 / @DistantCousins --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Rabbi Shmuel Phillips joins the podcast again to take us on a journey through his thought-provoking book, "Talmud Reclaimed." Join us as we explore the current state of Halakha and the subconscious reverence for the Halakhic status quo. Rabbi Phillips discusses the pivotal role of the Sanhedrin in the Halakhic system, explaining why without it, we find ourselves in a "Halakhic Exile." We examine the binding nature and legislative scope of the Talmud, and the nuanced two-tiered Halakhic system as described by Rambam. Rabbi Phillips provides insights into his innovative interpretation of Taamei HaMitzvot (Reasons for the Commandments) in the Moreh HaNevukhim, critiquing the approach of Professor Christine Hayes, and how his legal system addresses the Havat Yair's problem. As we navigate the complexities of Torah law derivation and its perceived independence from God's will, Rabbi Phillips sheds light on why intricate debates and extensive Talmudic focus are essential. Finally, Rabbi Phillips explores which laws have the potential for alteration, leaving us with a deeper understanding of Halachic evolution and its implications. Tune in for a compelling conversation that challenges conventional perspectives and provides invaluable insights for those seeking a deeper understanding of Talmud. --- • Bio: Born and raised in England, Rabbi Shmuel Phillips has spent almost two decades studying in Yeshiva and Kollel in Israel, during which time he has also completed a law degree from the University of London. Shmuel currently resides in Rechavia, Jerusalem, with his wife Rivka and four children. There he divides his time between Torah study and managing a suite of serviced offices in downtown Jerusalem. --- • Get his books here: https://www.talmudreclaimed.com/ --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Roslyn Weiss to explore her translation of Hasdai Crescas's Light of the Lord. We delve into the initial inspiration behind her translation project and the challenges she faced in capturing Crescas's philosophical nuances in English. Dr. Weiss provides insight into Crescas’s difficult life and the historical context of his work, highlighting how these factors influence our interpretation of Light of the Lord. We discuss the unique organizational structure Crescas employs and how it serves the development of his philosophical arguments, contrasting it with the structures used by other medieval philosophers like Maimonides. Dr. Weiss elaborates on the intended audience for Crescas’s work and its significance. Crescas's critique of Aristotelian physics and metaphysics is another focal point of our conversation. Dr. Weiss highlights Crescas's arguments and explains why he is so critical of Aristotelian views, comparing Crescas's perspectives with those of his contemporaries. We also explore Crescas’s views on human free will in light of causal necessity and its implications for moral responsibility in Jewish thought. Dr. Weiss discusses Crescas’s approach to the existence of God, the essence of God as infinite love, the justification of commandments, and the balance between rational inquiry and adherence to tradition as presented in Books I-IV of Light of the Lord. Join us for a deep dive into the philosophical world of Hasdai Crescas with Dr. Roslyn Weiss. --- • Bio: Roslyn Weiss is Professor Emerita of Philosophy at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA. Her fields of expertise are Ancient Greek Philosophy and Medieval Jewish Philosophy. She has published four books on Plato; a fifth is due out in July 2024. Her most recent publications are the first complete translation into English of the medieval Hebrew philosophical work, Light of the Lord, by Hasdai Crescas (Oxford, 2018), and an edited bi-lingual volume of all of Crescas’s writings (Koren, Library of the Jewish People, 2023). She was a Guggenheim fellow in 2021. --- • Get her book here: https://www.amazon.com/Crescas-Light-Hashem-Translated-introduction/dp/0192894056/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SURY6DEO93K9&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.40_EJaCefUOeLmo57xokNEfK5bliUpJnpPOEjpcl8nM.5ywrS0VZ2eaKVuZALsp-hYlKytNgzYV6SEQMyXCTEGQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=crescas+weiss&qid=1720970610&sprefix=crescas+weiss%2Caps%2C130&sr=8-1 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this episode, we engage with the profound insights of Rabbi Chaim Eisen on the complex topic of free will in the context of modern science and Jewish philosophy. Our discussion opens with a look at the consensus in contemporary science, as popularized by figures like Sam Harris and Robert Sapolsky, which suggests that our actions are largely determined by physiological and environmental factors. Rabbi Eisen's insights prompt us to consider whether there is a clear demarcation or a more subtle interplay between these moments of choice and predetermined paths. The conversation also covers the role of yeshiva education in addressing the theological, philosophical, and spiritual challenges of contemporary society. We briefly discuss Rabbi Eisen's views on the current state of yeshiva education and the crucial topics that students should be familiar with. Lastly, we explore the fascinating intersection of quantum mechanics and Jewish thought, particularly in relation to Maimonides' teachings on divine providence and the nature of God's interaction with the world. The indeterminacy and non-locality observed in quantum physics present an intriguing backdrop for discussing traditional views on God's providence and the laws of nature. Join us as we navigate these complex ideas with thoroughness and care. (Co-hosted by friend-of-the-podcast Dovidchai Abramchayev) --- • Bio: Rabbi Chaim Eisen is the founder and dean of Yeshivath Sharashim – Zion Bible Studies, a Web-based educational venture to engage users worldwide in a deepening understanding of the Hebrew Bible and other religious classics, through live, recorded, and written content. An acclaimed speaker, he’s been stimulating audiences throughout Israel, North America, and Europe for over 40 years. For nearly all his career, he’s been involved in adult education, principally as a senior rabbinical lecturer at the Orthodox Union (OU) Jerusalem World Center, where he taught for more than 36 years. For over 20 years, he also taught Talmud and Midrash, Biblical commentary, and especially Jewish thought and philosophy at various yeshivot in Israel. In addition, he served as a Torah lecturer in the Israel Defense Forces Rabbinate Torah Lecture Corps (reserves), for over 16 years, and continued to volunteer there, after his retirement. Besides teaching, he was founding editor of the OU journal 'Jewish Thought: A Journal of Torah Scholarship' and has written and edited numerous essays in this field. He’s been teaching, editing, and publishing Judaica for more than four decades. In particular, he feels passionately that, to pave the way for God’s “great and awesome day” (Yoel 3:4 and Malachi 3:23), there’s a burning urgency now to enunciate the Torah’s message in the global marketplace of ideas, where, all too often, it’s so sincerely sought — and so sorely missing. Tragically, nowadays, few who value the Torah’s message appreciate the global marketplace of ideas — and vice versa. Most of all, he’s committed to harnessing a lifetime of Torah study and teaching, to address and redress this absence, by the Torah’s light. This is his mission — and the raison d’être of Yeshivath Sharashim – Zion Bible Studies. --- • Check out his channel: https://www.youtube.com/@jewishphilosophymatters --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with renowned philosopher and theologian Dr. William Lane Craig to navigate the intricate intersections of faith, science, and philosophy. Our conversation opens with Dr. Craig elucidating his stance on 'Creation Ex Nihilo,' integrating theological doctrine with contemporary scientific understanding, particularly in relation to the Big Bang theory. He explains why 'Creation Ex Deo' is in direct opposition to the biblical narrative, challenging the notion that the universe emerged from God and is inherently united with his own being. Dr. Craig makes a case that aligns with the Maimonidean worldview, showcasing why panentheism and pantheism contradict the core tenets of our respective faiths. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as Dr. Craig discusses his agreement with the Kalam cosmological argument, a perspective shared across Jewish and Islamic traditions, highlighting the universal quest for understanding the origins of the universe. Addressing criticisms from atheistic circles, Dr. Craig confronts the "God of the gaps" argument and the counter notion of a "science of the gaps," particularly in relation to the Multiverse Theory and the complexity of DNA. He presents a compelling case for theism, challenging the atheistic critiques with reasoned arguments and evidence. Our dialogue also ventures into the realms of mathematical harmony and the laws of nature, with Dr. Craig articulating how these elements inherently point to a Creator, offering a profound reflection on the order and intelligibility of our world. Dr. Craig also addresses the challenges posed by skeptics of evolution, such as Dr. David Berlinski, and defends the scientific validity of an evolutionary perspective within a theistic framework. Lastly, Dr. Craig addresses the topic of the universe's age, which has been a point of contention among our respective coreligionists. This fascinating interview will not disappoint. (Co-hosted by friend-of-the-podcast Zev Gotkin) --- • Bio: Dr. William Lane Craig is Visiting Scholar of Philosophy at Talbot School of Theology and Professor of Philosophy at Houston Christian University. Dr. Craig pursued his undergraduate studies at Wheaton College (B.A. 1971) and graduate studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (M.A. 1974; M.A. 1975), the University of Birmingham (England) (Ph.D. 1977), and the University of Munich (Germany) (D.Theol. 1984). From 1980-86 he taught Philosophy of Religion at Trinity, during which time he and his wife Jan started their family. In 1987 they moved to Brussels, Belgium, where Dr. Craig pursued research at the University of Louvain until assuming his position at Talbot in 1994. He has authored or edited over thirty books, and in 2016, Dr. Craig was named by The Best Schools as one of the fifty most influential living philosophers. --- • Check out his fascinating discussion with Dr. Roger Penrose here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wLtCqm72-Y --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

"Autobiography of a Recovering Skinhead (Story as Told to Jody M. Roy, Ph.D.)" is a gripping narrative of Frank Meeink's journey into the depths of the neo-Nazi underworld in America, and his subsequent emergence from a life filled with hatred and substance abuse. Growing up in a violent environment in South Philadelphia set Frank on a path towards hatred, and his struggles with addiction left him vulnerable to the influence of a few skinhead gang recruiters. By the age of 16, he had risen to prominence as a leading figure among skinhead gangs on the East Coast, and by 18, he was serving a lengthy prison sentence. Inside prison, his interactions with minorities led him to question his long-held prejudices. Tune in to discover what led him to renounce his neo-Nazi group and eventually embrace Judaism. Frank's story is as powerful an example of personal redemption and teshuva (returning/repentance) that you're ever going to hear. 

In this episode, we're honored to have Dr. Daniel Matt discuss his book "Becoming Elijah." He explores Elijah's evolving role through history, focusing on his transformative character from Tanakh to Talmud to Kabbalah and beyond. Dr. Matt delves into the significance of Elijah's name, his unique encounter with God on Mount Sinai compared to Moses', and the profound meaning of the qol demamah daqqah, "a sound of sheer stillness." He also examines Elijah's supposed immortality, his foretold return as a harbinger of the Messiah based on Malakhi, and his intriguing ability to shape-shift, which influenced rabbinical teachings and stories. Dr. Matt further illuminates Elijah's crucial role in Kabbalah, drawing parallels between Elijah and Moses, and discusses the kabbalists' perspectives on "Gilui Eliyahu." He sheds light on Hasidic interpretations of Elijah's presence, his pivotal role in Jewish rituals like the Passover Seder, Havdalah, and the Brit Milah, and his significant role in Christianity and Islam, underscoring his universal impact across religious traditions. The conversation concludes with insights into Dr. Matt's translation of the Zohar, highlighting the need for a fresh perspective despite existing translations and the revolutionary (sometimes controversial) ideas it introduced. --- • Bio: Daniel Matt is a scholar of Kabbalah and the Zohar. He has been featured in Time and Newsweek, and has appeared on National Public Radio and the History Channel. He has published over a dozen books, including The Essential Kabbalah (translated into eight languages), Zohar: Annotated and Explained, and God and the Big Bang: Discovering Harmony between Science and Spirituality (revised edition, 2016). Several years ago Daniel completed an 18-year project of translating and annotating the Zohar. In 2016, Stanford University Press published his ninth volume of The Zohar: Pritzker Edition, concluding the Zohar’s main commentary on the Torah. For this work, Daniel has been honored with a National Jewish Book Award and a Koret Jewish Book Award. The Koret award hailed his translation as “a monumental contribution to the history of Jewish thought.” Daniel received his Ph.D. from Brandeis University and for twenty years served as Professor of Jewish Spirituality at the Richard S. Dinner Center for Jewish Studies at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley, California. He has also taught at Stanford University and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Daniel lives in Berkeley with his wife Hana. His book Becoming Elijah: Prophet of Transformation was the Rabbi Sacks Book Prize Winner in 2022. He currently teaches Zohar online. For information visit www.danielcmatt.com. --- • Check out his course here: https://www.danielcmatt.com/zohar-courses.html --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this premiere episode of Judaism Demystified's "Getting to Know the Rishonim" series, we dive into the life and legacy of Rabbi Levi ben Gershon, also known as RaLBaG or Gersonides, a prominent medieval French Jewish philosopher, Talmudist, mathematician, physician and astronomer/astrologer. We uncover who Ralbag was, shedding light on his immense contributions not just to Jewish thought but also to the realms of science and philosophy. Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss and Rabbi Dovid Campbell share their personal journeys of discovering Ralbag's work, with Rabbi Campbell delving into Ralbag's scientific and philosophical achievements, and Rabbi Schneeweiss focusing on the structure and depth of Ralbag's Tanakh commentary. The conversation then zooms in on Ralbag's unique interpretation of Akedat Yitzhak (The Binding of Isaac), particularly his novel approach to the concept of "nisayon" or "Divine test." Rabbi Campbell takes the reins to explain how this ties into Ralbag's sophisticated understanding of Divine knowledge. As Rabbi Schneeweiss navigates through Ralbag's commentary, Rabbi Campbell interjects with insights into Ralbag's views on human perfection and prophecy, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Ralbag's philosophical underpinnings. Rabbi Schneeweiss rounds off the discussion on the Akedah, exploring the practical outcomes and lessons derived from the narrative, known as "toalot" in Ralbag's framework. He also introduces listeners to the Maaliot Edition, providing a teaser for the rich, multifaceted nature of Ralbag's commentary. This episode not only offers an in-depth look at Ralbag's approach to one of Judaism's pivotal narratives but also invites listeners into the broader, intricate tapestry of Jewish scholastic heritage through the lens of one of its most profound thinkers. --- *This episode is dedicated to the refua shelema of our dear friend Yaakov ben Haya Malakh and to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian. --- • Bio: Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss is the author of the Rabbi Schneeweiss Substack (rabbischneeweiss.substack.com), featuring hundreds of articles on Torah and Jewish philosophy. His recorded shiurim are available on YouTube and through his five podcasts: Machshavah Lab, Mishlei, Tefilah, Rambam Bekius, and The Stoic Jew. Rabbi Schneeweiss studied at Yeshiva Bnei Torah (YBT) in Far Rockaway, NY, for seven years, earning a BA in Psychology from Touro College and an MA in Jewish Education from the Azrieli Graduate School. He taught at HAFTR High School and Rambam Mesivta before finding his dream job at Midreshet Shalhevet, where he taught a variety of Limudei Kodesh and English classes for 10 years, until the school's permanent closure in 2020. He currently teaches at YBT and the New England Jewish Academy (NEJA), while also offering a variety of his own Zoom shiurim open to the public, including in-depth Torah classes specifically for women. His Torah teachings are characterized by curiosity-driven learning, transformative insights, and real-world application. Rabbi Dovid Campbell writes on various subjects of Jewish thought, focusing on the importance of curiosity and creativity as Jewish values. His articles have appeared in the peer-reviewed journals, Tradition and Hakirah, and online at numerous Jewish content sites, including Aish.com, the Lehrhaus, and SeforimChatter. He can be reached through his website, NatureofTorah.com. --- • Check out more from Rabbi Schneeweiss here: www.rabbischneeweiss.substack.com --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this highly anticipated interview with Professor Lawrence H. Schiffman, an esteemed expert in Dead Sea Scrolls studies, we explore the profound significance of these ancient manuscripts in understanding ancient Judaism and Christianity. Dr. Schiffman provides a comprehensive overview of the Dead Sea Scrolls offer invaluable insights into the religious, social, and political dynamics of the Second Temple period, shedding light on the beliefs, practices, and historical context of this pivotal era. We discuss how the discovery of the scrolls in the mid-20th century transformed our understanding of Jewish history and Second Temple Judaism. He shares what got him interested in this topic and how it had a positive effect on his religious beliefs and observance. He explains how the scrolls inform our understanding of sectarianism within Jewish society in the Second Temple period, where the Halakhic texts within the scrolls align with or diverge from Rabbinic Judaism as we know it today, how the variants in these texts compare and contrast with the Masoretic Text, and what it tells us about the development of the biblical canon. Lastly, he delves into the apocalyptic and messianic texts that seem to reflect the beliefs and expectations of the Qumran community and how these beliefs compare with other Jewish and early Christian messianic expectations of the time. --- • Bio: Lawrence H. Schiffman is Chair of New York University's Skirball Department of Hebrew and Judaic Studies and serves as Ethel and Irvin A. Edelman Professor of Hebrew and Judaic Studies. He is a member of the team that published the Dead Sea Scrolls in the series, Discoveries in the Judean Desert. He edited the journal Dead Sea Discoveries and the Oxford Encyclopedia of the Dead Sea Scrolls. His publications include The Halakhah at Qumran (1975); Sectarian Law in the Dead Sea Scrolls: Courts, Testimony, and the Penal Code (1983); Who Was a Jew? Rabbinic Perspectives on the Jewish-Christian Schism (1985); From Text to Tradition: A History of Second Temple and Rabbinic Judaism (1991); the jointly authored monograph, Hebrew and Aramaic Magical Texts from the Cairo Genizah (1992); Reclaiming the Dead Sea Scrolls (1994) and some 150 articles on the Dead Sea Scrolls and Rabbinic Judaism. --- • Get his incredible book here: https://www.amazon.com/Tradition-History-Judaism-Second-Rabbinic/dp/0881253723/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ZEY6XJ5NYNEN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CFsj8imEoAfl2FArxqlm9fspqLI-yf_jS2cWkPu6R0LGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.stcJqxbz-Mw7Do2qPtgWAiSuPy_scUu3dMF88c2JeIk&dib_tag=se&keywords=FROM+TEXT+TO+TRADITION+SCHIFFMAN&qid=1710298999&s=books&sprefix=from+text+to+tradition+schiffman%2Cstripbooks%2C96&sr=1-1 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

In this captivating episode, we welcome back Dr. Lenn E. Goodman, who introduces his new translation of the Guide to the Perplexed, a task previously undertaken by Moshe Friedlander and notably by Shlomo Pines. Dr. Goodman explains what inspired him to reinterpret this seminal work, why it's necessary, and explains his intentions to bring fresh perspectives and clarity to Maimonides' complex ideas. The discussion then turns to the inherent challenges in comprehending the Guide, stemming from its medieval philosophical context and the contradictions and ambiguities Maimonides himself noted. Dr. Goodman shares his method for navigating these issues in his forthcoming translation, potentially offering new interpretations of this pivotal text. The key part of the conversation focuses on Maimonides' theological and cosmological system, particularly how it aligns with contemporary scientific understanding. Dr. Goodman addresses the dilemma of reconciling Maimonides' geocentric universe with modern cosmology and explores how this impacts the interpretation of divine providence, prophecy, revelation, and miracles. He evaluates various scholarly responses to this issue (as well as how to understand Rambam's view of the Active Intellect) and offers his insight into this complex theological challenge. --- • Bio: Dr. Lenn E. Goodman is a Professor of Philosophy and Jewish Studies, and Andrew W. Mellon Professor in the Humanities. His philosophical interests center on metaphysics and ethics, and he has paid special attention over the years to Islamic and Jewish philosophical thought and their creative interactions. Goodman was a winner of the American Philosophical Association Baumgardt Memorial Prize and was a rare Humanities Recipient of Vanderbilt University’s top research award, the Earl Sutherland prize. He has written philosophical essays on most of the major figures of Islamic and Jewish philosophy and on a variety of topics in political philosophy, biophilosophy, and the theory of knowledge and culture. He serves on the editorial boards of History of Philosophy Quarterly and Medieval Philosophy and Theology. He is an associate editor of Asian Philosophy. He has served as Vice President and Program Chair of the Institute for Islamic/Judaic Studies. He has also served as program chair for the APA panels of the Academy for Jewish Philosophy. He was Jewish Philosophy subject editor of the Routledge Encyclopedia of Philosophy and is a fellow of the Academy for Jewish Philosophy. Professor Goodman has also contributed to the Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy, the Oxford Companion to Philosophy, the Blackwell’s Companion to the Philosophy of Religion, the Companion Encyclopedia of Asian Philosophy, as well as other works of reference. In 2008 Oxford University Press published Goodman’s Gifford lectures under the title Love Thy Neighbor as Thyself. --- • Get his incredible book here: https://www.amazon.com/Guide-Perplexed-New-Translation/dp/0804787387/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JP03UABR1D53&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-HWzPrcheaGNyN8IkkdoPBdImmYZr2xEsQG__TJ37HW5Q2Z1He6UHcQ0-oRJ49MRTJ2jBBIv4kUdIQZoJI_jBlpfaTdpB9CZc10kcVfTARfz4RoWDS_wwj_89-916cCcw8pJVGsrvjYw4tFtCnbSZVup5rDvtY8WFdRhK2ItTvvDvQI9DGUwuii4ju1pRBPqDDoI2_HiYoxFeioopy10TA.odo1XW4gB18d7RTWWjvOOOK_LNZWOEqyJGpJ1C5HVCw&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+guide+for+the+perplexed+goodman&qid=1709481535&sprefix=the+guide+for+the+perplexed+goodman%2Caps%2C85&sr=8-1 --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

J.J Kimche joins us once again, this time to present an overview and two critiques of the Gush Tanakh method, which has taken the Torah learning world by storm in recent years. The method developed at Yeshivat Har Etzion (commonly known as the Gush), is a comprehensive approach to studying the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible. It is rooted in the belief that the text of the Tanakh is multi-layered, containing profound meanings that can be revealed through careful analysis of its language, grammar, syntax, literary style, chiastic structures, intertextuality, and historical context. The Gush promotes critical thinking and intellectual rigor, as its students are encouraged to ask probing questions, challenge assumptions, and explore alternative interpretations of the text. Kimche, a Gush alum, utilizes these very tools to give an honest assessment of its pros and cons. Overall, the practitioners of the Gush approach strive to uncover the timeless wisdom and relevance of Tanakh for the contemporary reader, and while there is no perfect system, this method has invigorated a new generation of wisdom seekers. --- • Bio: J.J. is a PhD candidate at Harvard University, where he specializes in the intersection between European and Jewish Intellectual history during the post-Enlightenment period. J.J. received his undergraduate education at Shalem College, Jerusalem, where he double-majored in Western philosophy and Jewish thought. Prior to that, he studied at Yeshivat Har Etzion and completed his military service in the 101st Division of the IDF’s Paratroopers Brigade. J.J. has taught courses on Jewish thought in a wide array of institutions, including at Harvard, Brandeis, and MIT. His works have been published across a wide array of scholarly and academic platforms. He has ghostwritten two books on Jewish ideas, and his first academic book is due to be published in 2024. J.J. is also the host of Torah in Motion’s Podcast of Jewish Ideas. --- • Check out his podcast here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2NDDXuT8p9FkkcBgP7n6sG --- • Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, and Jeffrey Wasserman! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!

Join us for a captivating episode as we spotlight Rabbi Yitzhak Berdugo's important book, "Understanding Ḥazal," which offers an English translation of Rabbeinu Avraham Ben HaRambam's guide to deciphering the words of our Sages. This meticulously crafted guide, complete with an elegantly typeset Hebrew translation, is enriched with insights from Ḥakhamim throughout the generations. Discover why Rabbi Berdugo believes that now, more than ever, understanding the teachings of our Sages is crucial, particularly in the face of scrutiny from academia, atheists, and other skeptics. Reflecting on his personal journey to Torah observance, Rabbi Berdugo sheds light on the challenges confronting the current generation and how the classical Geonic-Sepharadi tradition can serve as a formidable defense against modern assaults on Judaism. In this enlightening conversation, we uncover the significance of properly grasping Aggadah and its potential role in elevating the next generation of Torah study. 

Rabbi Dr. Marc B. Shapiro presents the historical rise of the Reform movement and the rabbinic response to it. We explore the origins of the first generation of the Reform movement, examining Scholem’s thesis and Rabbi Shapiro’s insightful thoughts on it. We uncover the fundamental advocacies of the first-generation Reformers, their rabbinical backing and opposition, and how their beliefs diverge from contemporary Reform movements. Rabbi Shapiro provides illuminating examples of halakhic reforms advocated by the first generation and draws intriguing and surprising parallels with Modern Orthodox and Hareidi practices today. Discover the development and distinctions of the second-generation Reform movement, shedding light on its emergence and evolution. As we navigate through the landscape of Jewish sectarianism, Rabbi Shapiro shares his personal views and hopes for addressing sectarian issues within Judaism today. Lastly, he shares his thoughts on the Haredi approach to Zionism in the aftermath of October 7th, the impact of Hakham José Faur a'h and Rabbi Jonathan Sacks a'h, as well as some other personal anecdotes that blew us away. *This episode is dedicated to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian.

In this monumental episode, we interview Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin, popularly known as the "Zoo Rabbi," director of the Biblical Museum of Natural History in Beit Shemesh, Israel. Slifkin is best known for his interests in zoology, Judaism's relationship to evolution, Jewish and biblical history, and his popular website www.RationalistJudaism.com. Our focus in this discussion is his book "Rationalism vs. Mysticism: Schisms in Traditional Jewish Thought." There are specific chapters that we feel deserve a closer look, such as "The Sages vs Science: The Sun’s Path at Night," "Wrestling with Demons," "Ayin Hara: Ocular Radiation or Heavenly accounting,” "The Nature of Torah," and "The function of Mitzvot." Rabbi Slifkin also reflects on his infamous Torah-Science controversy/ban, otherwise known as "The Slifkin Affair." Additionally, he shares his thoughts on the future of the Haredi relationship to Zionism in the aftermath of October 7th. You don't want to miss this fascinating interview. *This episode is dedicated to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian.

In part 3 of this captivating three-part series, Dr. Jeffrey Rubenstein returns to our podcast to unravel the intricate tapestry of Talmudic narratives surrounding Elisha ben Abuyah, also known as "Aḥer" (the Other), the apostate. Exploring the accounts in the Mishna, Tosefta, Talmud Yerushalmi, and Talmud Bavli, Dr. Rubenstein provides a meticulous analysis of the traditions about Aḥer, examining the striking similarities, nuanced differences, varied approaches, and profound lessons embedded within the various cultural settings of these Aggadic stories. The episodes ponder the contemporary relevance of Aḥer, questioning what insights can be drawn from his enigmatic journey into "Pardes" to his brazen violation of halakha, and more. Join us as we dive into the intricate perspectives of the Sages on the heretic teacher of Rabbi Meir, contemplating the extent to which Torah lessons can be gleaned from a scholar who once stood within the religious fold. An intellectual odyssey awaits as we navigate the complexities of Aḥer's tale and unravel its timeless implications. Join us for episode 3 of 3 in the Aḥer series. (FYI this 3-part series was recorded over a span of a year, so some personal anecdotes should be understood in that context)

In part 2 of this captivating three-part series, Dr. Jeffrey Rubenstein returns to our podcast to unravel the intricate tapestry of Talmudic narratives surrounding Elisha ben Abuyah, also known as "Aḥer" (the Other), the apostate. Exploring the accounts in the Mishna, Tosefta, Talmud Yerushalmi, and Talmud Bavli, Dr. Rubenstein provides a meticulous analysis of the traditions about Aḥer, examining the striking similarities, nuanced differences, varied approaches, and profound lessons embedded within the various cultural settings of these Aggadic stories. The episodes ponder the contemporary relevance of Aḥer, questioning what insights can be drawn from his enigmatic journey into "Pardes" to his brazen violation of halakha, and more. Join us as we dive into the intricate perspectives of the Sages on the heretic teacher of Rabbi Meir, contemplating the extent to which Torah lessons can be gleaned from a scholar who once stood within the religious fold. An intellectual odyssey awaits as we navigate the complexities of Aḥer's tale and unravel its timeless implications. Join us for episode 2 of 3 in the Aḥer series. (FYI this 3-part series was recorded over a span of a year, so some personal anecdotes should be understood in that context) *This episode is dedicated to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian.

In this captivating three-part series, Dr. Jeffrey Rubenstein returns to our podcast to unravel the intricate tapestry of Talmudic narratives surrounding Elisha ben Abuyah, also known as "Aḥer" (the Other), the apostate. Exploring the accounts in the Mishna, Tosefta, Talmud Yerushalmi, and Talmud Bavli, Dr. Rubenstein provides a meticulous analysis of the traditions about Aḥer, examining the striking similarities, nuanced differences, varied approaches, and profound lessons embedded within the various cultural settings of these Aggadic stories. The episodes ponder the contemporary relevance of Aḥer, questioning what insights can be drawn from his enigmatic journey into "Pardes" to his brazen violation of halakha, and more. Join us as we dive into the intricate perspectives of the Sages on the heretic teacher of Rabbi Meir, contemplating the extent to which Torah lessons can be gleaned from a scholar who once stood within the religious fold.An intellectual odyssey awaits as we navigate the complexities of Aḥer's tale and unravel its timeless implications. Join us for episode 1 of 3 in the Aḥer series. (FYI this 3-part series was recorded over a span of a year, so some personal anecdotes should be understood in that context. Also, it's ideal to watch this episode in particular on our YouTube channel because of all the slideshow visuals he provided. Go to YouTube and type in Judaism.Demystified in the search bar - please like, subscribe, and share while you're at it.) *This episode is dedicated to the neshama of Meir ben Moshe a'h — Abdolrahim Ilian, the late father of our dear friend, Rod Ilian.

Embark on a fascinating journey through the corridors of Jewish history as we unravel the enigmatic and controversial discussions surrounding the authenticity of the Zohar and the profound role of Kabbalah in Jewish thought and practice. For the first time ever, J.J. Kimche and Daniel A. Klein, authors of the groundbreaking new book "Letters on Kabbalah," present an exclusive compilation of correspondences, meticulously translated into English. These monumental letters, penned by four distinguished Jewish leaders — Rabbi Abraham Yitzhak Kook, Rabbi Yihye Qafih, Rabbi Eliyahu Benamozegh, and Shadal — offer a captivating exploration into the diverse perspectives, doctrines, and ideologies of two contrasting yet traditional schools of Jewish thought. The podcast shines a spotlight on the spirited exchange between Shadal and Rabbi Benamozegh, two towering figures who give us a glimpse into their feisty personalities and sharp wits. This in-depth discussion not only illuminates their contrasting viewpoints but also provides a unique window into the dynamic world of Jewish intellectual discourse. The relationship between traditional rabbinic Judaism and Kabbalah has been complex and varied throughout history. While Kabbalah has been embraced by many, some of the greatest rabbis in history pushed back against its influence because either they felt some of the concepts deviate from fundamental beliefs which may lead to heretical interpretations, or that it distracted from the practical aspects of Jewish observance and placed too much emphasis on speculative ideas, or that the hidden nature of Kabbalistic texts can make it susceptible to misinterpretation, among other reasons. Nevertheless, it is undoubtedly worthwhile to analyze and comprehend the differences in perspectives and appreciate why this conversation continues to be relevant today.

Our discussion begins with Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot eloquently tackling the nuances of curricula, pedagogical choices, methodologies, and values in the study of Tanakh. He sheds light on how some traditional elements within the Orthodox community may potentially affect reverence for God and traditional piety, also known as "Yirat Shamayim." Rabbi Helfgot presents a compelling perspective on the attitudes of Geonic and medieval rabbis towards Midrash, and why it matters. He also highlights why intertextuality is such a powerful tool in unearthing some of the most profound ideas in TaNaKh. He then explores the famous Midrash regarding Avraham Avinu's confrontation with idolatry in his youth and shows why this Midrash serves as a model for the study of intertextuality. Is there another biblical character that this story mirrors? We explore key narratives within TaNaKh, such as Moshe striking the rock and the consequences that follow, and the uniqueness of Parashat Balak which seems to be “out of place” with the rest of the Torah. Rabbi Helfgot offers fresh perspectives on these stories, revealing deeper layers of understanding and thematic parallels that enhance our comprehension of these significant biblical events. The conversation concludes with an examination of the command to wipe out Amalek, an often-misunderstood subject that requires a proper understanding of the text in its historical context. This is one episode you don’t want to miss.

Rabbi Michael Hattin begins by unraveling the overarching theme of the Book of Joshua, a theme that underpins the entire narrative. He provides illuminating examples from the text, particularly focusing on the intriguing interplay between divine design and human initiative, offering a fresh perspective on this complex dynamic. We then delve into Joshua's decision to send spies into the Promised Land, a controversial decision given the previous misadventure of the spies in the Book of Numbers. Rabbi Hattin explains the rationale behind Joshua's choice, drawing comparisons and contrasts between the two missions. He reveals how these differences were instrumental in avoiding the pitfalls of the past and contemplates whether Rahab's involvement was part of the divine plan from the outset. Rahab the Harlot's story takes center stage in our discussion, as we explore the nuances of her character and her unexpected role in the unfolding drama. He examines the perception of Rahab's profession, or lack thereof, in the text and delves into the complexity of her transformation throughout the ordeal. Moving forward, we explore the encounter of the angel of the Lord with Joshua, drawing connections to similar occurrences in the Torah. Rabbi Hattin unravels the overarching lessons and messages that this angelic visitation might convey, not only to Joshua but to the entire Israelite community. We examine Israel's setback under Joshua's leadership in the incident involving Akhan's transgression. Lastly, we address the moral complexity surrounding the seemingly indiscriminate slaughter of the Canaanite inhabitants. Rabbi Hattin challenges the conventional explanation rooted in ancient rules of warfare, encouraging us to contemplate alternative perspectives and ethical considerations in the context of the Book of Joshua.

Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking exploration of Rosh Hashanah like never before, as we engage in a captivating conversation with Rabbi Nathan Laufer, author of the eye-opening book "Rendezvous with God." In this interview, we unravel the enigma that is Rosh Hashanah and challenge the conventional understanding of this sacred holiday. Rabbi Laufer begins by sharing his inspiration behind writing "Rendezvous with God" and the unique methodology he employed to delve into the essence of Rosh Hashanah. As we dive deeper into the discussion, he highlights the intriguing paradox surrounding Rosh Hashanah. Contrary to the commonly held beliefs of it being the Jewish New Year, the anniversary of the creation of the world, and a day of judgment, Rabbi Laufer takes us back to the Torah's narrative, revealing that none of these notions are explicitly mentioned in its verses. Furthermore, the Torah doesn't even refer to it as "Rosh Hashanah." What sets Rosh Hashanah apart is its apparent lack of connection to significant historical events in Jewish history, in stark contrast to other holidays on the Jewish calendar. Rabbi Laufer invites us to challenge our preconceived notions and explore the deeper layers of meaning hidden within this holiday. Prepare to have your perspective on Rosh Hashanah forever transformed as you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the spiritual depth and profound significance of this remarkable holiday, as revealed through Rabbi Laufer's profound insights.

Elisheva Liss, LMFT, an esteemed thought leader on cultivating healthy relationships in the frum world, unveils the complexities of premarital education, intimacy, mental health, and religious taboos across various communities. Her expert guidance illuminates the importance of open communication, shared values, and realistic expectations as the pillars of successful relationships. As she delves into the nuances of intimacy, she skillfully navigates the fusion of tradition and psychology, offering invaluable tools for deepening emotional and physical bonds. Whether you're single, dating, engaged, married, or simply interested in learning how to navigate the intricacies of human connections, this conversation provides insights that transcend cultural and religious boundaries. Elisheva's expertise and compassionate guidance will leave a lasting impact on your understanding of love and intimacy, and hopefully provide the building blocks of enduring partnerships. (With special guest co-host, Karen Koren)

Rabbi Dr. Sam Lebens joins us to discuss his book, "A Guide for the Jewish Undecided: A Philosopher Makes the Case for Orthodox Judaism." He explains his motivations behind writing the book and the philosophical arguments he employs to tackle the complex subject of faith and religion. First, we dive into the introductory chapter of the book, which extensively explores the concept of Jewish conversion. Rabbi Dr. Lebens elaborates on his unique perspective of Jewish conversion and how this concept serves as the cornerstone for the themes developed throughout the rest of the book. A significant highlight of Rabbi Dr. Lebens' book is the chapter titled "The Unthinkable." This chapter illuminates the rationality underlying certain aspects of irrationality in life. Rabbi Dr. Lebens delves into the concepts presented in this pivotal chapter, explaining how they establish the essential framework for the entire book. As the conversation progresses, Rabbi Dr. Lebens breaks down the different arguments for God and the revelation of Sinai, encouraging the audience to directly engage with these sections of the book. The focus then shifts to the fundamental question of defining "religiosity." In this portion of the interview, Rabbi Dr. Lebens offers insights into his redefinition of the term "religious" and outlines three specific criteria that identify a religious person. He shares his philosophical perspective on these criteria and their significance. Throughout the podcast episode, Rabbi Dr. Sam Lebens provides an engaging and enlightening exploration of the themes, arguments, and concepts presented in his book, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of Orthodox Judaism, and serving as a guide for the Jewish undecided. Tune in to explore the different modes of rationality, the evidence needed to act on them, and how personal experiences affect religious beliefs.

David Curwin, author of "Kohelet: A Map to Eden," shares his reasons for choosing to write a book on Kohelet and explains how Rabbi David Fohrman of Aleph Beta influenced this project. In his book, Curwin uncovers various intertextual insights in the Kohelet narrative, providing a unique perspective on the life of Shelomo HaMelekh. From a biblical narrative standpoint, Kohelet presents us with a unconventional view the human experience, offering wisdom on the pursuit of meaning in the face of the harsh realities of life, and the transient nature of our existence. By way of intertextual analysis, Curwin proposes Adam HaRishon as the embodiment of Kohelet, drawing parallels to the Gan Eden narrative. He discusses how the resemblance highlights themes of loss and the search for purpose. He gives his take on meaning behind Adam naming his son Hevel. He also showcases the thematic similarities between Kohelet and the story of the Spies. He elaborates on how both narratives explore the impact of perspective, challenging the way we perceive our circumstances. Addressing the Ashkenazi custom of reading Kohelet on Sukkot, Curwin points out how the themes of the book and the holiday align. Our conversation illuminated the profound connections between Kohelet and various biblical stories, offering fresh insights into the human condition, the sobering realization of the impermanence of life, and the pursuit of wisdom through our challenges. You don't want to miss this fascinating discussion.

In this captivating interview, we embark on a profound exploration of the enigmatic book of Kohelet with esteemed scholar Dr. Erica Brown. With her unique methodology and deep connection to the late, great Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt"l, Dr. Brown provides fascinating insights into the diverse aspects of this mysterious biblical text. Kohelet, often regarded as a perplexing addition to the biblical canon, challenges readers with its elusive genre. Dr. Erica Brown lays out the possible genres in which Kohelet might be classified. With scholarly acumen, she shares her ultimate perspective on the matter, unraveling the layers of interpretation surrounding this intriguing work. She ventures into the distinctive style and structure of Kohelet, revealing how these literary features offer profound revelations about the book's essence. At the heart of Kohelet lies the relentless pursuit of meaning, a question that permeates every verse. Dr. Erica Brown presents a thought-provoking perspective, characterizing Kohelet's quest as anthropological rather than cosmological. She presents a nuanced understanding of how this approach to seeking meaning sets Kohelet apart, leaving us with profound reflections on our place in the grand scheme of life. Authorship debates often loom over ancient texts, and Kohelet is no exception. Dr. Brown navigates through the scholarly debate on authorship, offering her insightful take on the matter, all while contemplating the significance of this question in our engagement with the text. Within the pages of Kohelet, the word "Hevel" emerges as a pivotal element, deeply intertwined with the book's core themes. Dr. Erica Brown skillfully dissects the complexities of this word's meaning, exploring how it evolves in context as the narrative unfolds. With clarity and wisdom, she articulates why "Hevel" holds the key to unlocking the profound wisdom within the entire book. Prepare to be inspired and enriched by the depth of insights that will undoubtedly reshape your perspective on this timeless biblical masterpiece.

Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman, a renowned expert in Biblical studies, returns to the podcast and showcases the profound themes of the Book of Lamentations. In this interview, we explore the historical and theological aspects of this ancient text and shed light on its complex nature. Lamentations, a poetic book in the Hebrew Bible, holds a unique place in the biblical canon. He takes us on a journey through its haunting verses, unveiling its profound significance and multifaceted meaning. Our conversation begins with an exploration of what Lamentations truly is - a poignant collection of laments and elegies mourning the destruction of Jerusalem and the Holy Temple. But who was the intended audience of Lamentations? What was its purpose according to Chazal (the ancient sages) and scholars alike? Rabbi Dr. Berman offers insights into the historical context, shedding light on how this book played a crucial role in preserving the collective memory of a nation shattered by calamity. One of the fascinating aspects of Lamentations lies in the multiplicity of viewpoints expressed within its verses. He helps us make sense of these diverse perspectives, revealing how they contribute to the richness of the text and allow for a deeper exploration of the theological questions that arise from tragedy. Central to our discussion is the question of authorship. Is the narrator of Lamentations none other than the prophet Jeremiah? We examine the evidence and consider the implications of this attribution, gaining a fresh perspective on Jeremiah's role in shaping the theological narrative. The concept of Collective Trauma Theory comes to the fore as we analyze how the trauma of a nation is channeled and expressed through the poetic language of Lamentations. Rabbi Dr. Berman uncovers the collective healing process embedded in the text and how it continues to resonate with readers across the ages. As we conclude our interview, we grapple with the challenge of understanding the unity of Lamentations. Rabbi Dr. Berman offers a compelling departure point for comprehending the systematic fashion in which the book conveys its theology. Through his expertise, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate connections between the various parts of the text, harmonizing the sorrow and hope it encapsulates. Tune in to this captivating episode (just in time for Tisha B’Av), as we unravel the layers of Lamentations with Rabbi Dr. Berman and discover the timeless lessons and insights that continue to reverberate in our lives today.