Madlik Podcast – Disruptive Torah Thoughts on Judaism

In this episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz explore one of the Torah's most enigmatic verses—Jacob's blessing of Judah and the phrase "until Shiloh comes." Claimed by Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, this single line opens a sweeping conversation about the power of religion to shape history—for good and for evil. Drawing on classical commentators, medieval Jewish-Christian encounters, and modern interfaith scholarship, we ask hard questions: What happens when sacred texts become battlegrounds? Can religion be part of the solution to religious conflict? And where are the moral red lines that faith must never cross? The episode concludes with a remarkable live contribution from Yochanan, known as the Rosh Kollel of Clubhouse—a former Hasidic Jew with encyclopedic Torah knowledge who left his community, is suing for lack of secular education, and brings both sharp critique and disarming wonder to his rediscovery of the wider world—including celebrating his first-ever birthday. This is a conversation about scripture, identity, responsibility, and hope—offered as a reflective closing to the year, and a thoughtful opening to what comes next.

As we close one year and step into another, we're revisiting a live Madlik Disruptive Torah conversation recorded in December 2022, back when the podcast was broadcast weekly on Clubhouse in front of a live audience. This episode explores the enduring power of numbers in Jewish thought—especially the number 70. From the seventy souls who descend to Egypt, to seventy nations, seventy languages, seventy judges on the Sanhedrin, and the rabbinic idea that Torah itself has shiv'im panim—seventy faces—this conversation asks what numbers can teach us without turning Torah into superstition. Along the way, we discuss: Why seven and its multiples signal cycles, completeness, and transition The difference between structural symbolism and later gematria Umberto Cassuto's insight into numerical patterns in the Creation story Why unanimity among seventy judges invalidates a verdict How translation, disagreement, and plurality are built into Torah itself

Was Hanukkah really a war of Jews vs. Greeks — or a Jewish civil war we chose to forget? Was Hanukkah really Jews vs. Greeks — or a Jewish civil war we chose to bury under a story about oil? In this episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz revisit the Hanukkah story through the sources. From Maccabees I and the politics of Ptolemy vs. Antiochus, to the lone Talmudic mention of the oil miracle (Shabbat 21b), they show how a messy internal power struggle became a clean miracle narrative. Key Takeaways Hanukah began as a Jewish civil war — not just Jews vs. Greeks. Each generation rewrites the Maccabees to fit its own battles. The shamash — the helper candle — may be Hanukkah's real hero today. Timestamps [00:00] Hanukkah beyond oil and miracles [03:12] Why the Talmud barely explains Hanukkah [05:01] The forgotten Jewish civil war [07:22] Hellenists vs. Maccabees reexamined [09:48] Power, empires, and internal factions [12:30] Modern culture wars through Hanukkah [14:55] Why the rabbis hid the conflict [17:05] Hillel vs. Shammai as metaphor [19:10] The shamash in Israeli children's stories [23:40] Hanukkah as a model for unity Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/695661 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

Imagine being told you belong to a faith that is fighting to keep you out—and refusing to leave. In this week's Madlik, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz welcome Rabbi Steve Greenberg, the first openly gay Orthodox-ordained rabbi, for a deeply personal and wide-ranging conversation. Key Takeaways Vulnerability transforms the meaning of Torah. Bottom-up change is reshaping Orthodoxy. The tradition has the capacity — and the precedent — to grow. Timestamps [00:00:12] Rabbi Steve Greenberg's coming-out context and the question of LGBTQ+ Jews as teachers of Torah. [00:03:11] Steve's Yom Kippur aliyah story and being vulnerable to the text. [00:04:46] Confronting the biblical verses; reframing what Leviticus might mean. [00:06:22] Tamar's courage and parallels to LGBTQ+ belonging. [00:08:57] "Bottom-up Judaism": queer Jews staying, not leaving — shifting the halachic landscape. [00:11:39] Google rabbis, post-COVID authority shifts, and personal autonomy in community life. [00:15:08] Israeli changes: rejecting the Rabbanut, forming new models of partnership. [00:17:42] A painful role-play with a rabbi exposes how harmful "lifelong celibacy" messaging is for gay teens. [00:21:19] New data on LGBTQ+ rabbinical students and why queer spiritual sensitivity strengthens Jewish leadership. [00:24:56] Parents as powerful advocates: Orthodox families pushing shuls and schools to stop rejecting their children. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/691629 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/ Eshel: https://www.eshelonline.org/  

Beneath the surface, Israel is fighting for the soul of its religion — and most of us don't even see the battle lines. In this episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz are joined by Professor Adam S. Ferziger to explore the quiet revolution reshaping Israeli Judaism. Drawing on his new book, Agents of Change, Ferziger reveals how American Modern Orthodoxy—its values, institutions, and worldview—has profoundly influenced Religious Zionism and the broader Israeli religious landscape. From the tension between nationalism and modernity to the emergence of a new Israel-born generation, we uncover the cultural, political, and spiritual crossroads Israel now faces. Beneath the surface, Israel is fighting for the soul of its religion—and American Jews are playing a bigger role than anyone expected. Key Takeaways American Modern Orthodoxy Has Become a Quiet Force in Israeli Judaism Israeli Religious Zionism Is Splitting Into Two Distinct Paths Israel's Next Generation of Leaders Will Be Religious — But Neither Haredi or National Religious Timestamps [00:00:00] Jacob returns from exile with wealth, family, and a new identity; exile reframed as productive, not just punishment. [00:01:00] Intro to Professor Adam Ferziger and his book Agents of Change about American Jews reshaping Israeli Judaism. [00:02:00] Host sets the frame: modern Orthodoxy's influence on Israeli religious life, education, feminism, and LGBTQ inclusion. [00:03:00] Ferziger's personal story: gap year yeshiva, Aliyah in 1987, building family and rabbinic life in Kfar Saba. [00:04:54] Early political snapshot: the failed "Meimad" experiment and how Anglo moderates felt marginal and deviant. [00:06:36] Shift in the 2000s: religious-Zionist camp diversifies; modern Orthodox voices gain legitimacy and visibility. [00:09:05] Explaining American Modern Orthodoxy: Torah plus general culture, YU, day schools, Rav Soloveitchik's synthetic model. [00:14:10] Rise of "Hardal": nationalist-Haredi style religiosity, stricter halakha, and a more redemptive, messianic Zionism. [00:21:45] The "agents of change": eight American rabbis/educators whose Israeli students indigenize and radicalize their ideas. [00:34:15] Why this matters beyond religion: "Israeli Judaism" and how moderate Orthodox trends may shape Israel's future leadership. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/692993 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/ Adam Ferziger's Book https://nyupress.org/9781479817559/agents-of-change/  

Ready to discover how reviving a lost language can reshape the whole Middle East? Ta Shma (come and hear) Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz are joined by Shadi Khalloul—IDF paratrooper veteran, founder of the Israeli Christian Aramaic Association, and one of the world's most passionate advocates for reviving the Aramaic language. Together, they explore Parshat Vayetzei and the hidden "Rosetta Stone" moment in Genesis 31, where Jacob and Laban name the same monument in Hebrew and Aramaic. Key Takeaways Aramaic is the Hidden Backbone of Jewish Life Aramaic Once United the Ancient World—And Can Still Bridge Communities Today Israel's Aramean Christians Are a Forgotten but Loyal Minority whose story will surprise and inspire you Timestamps [00:00:00] Opening: Jewish prayers written in Aramaic & introduction to Shadi Kaul [00:01:03] Shadi's unique role: soldier, educator, reviver of Aramaic culture [00:02:12] Shadi's background: identity, community history, and connection to Israel [00:03:47] Serving in the IDF and discovering his Aramaic purpose in the U.S. [00:05:32] Founding the Israeli Christian Aramaic Association & education initiatives [00:07:14] Plans for Aramaic towns, schools, and coexistence programs [00:09:22] Daily language reality: Arabic spoken, Aramaic preserved in prayer [00:11:48] Parallels with Jewish language revival and historical connections [00:14:27] Shadi's family displaced in 1948 and the ongoing struggle for recognition [00:32:41] Aramaic as the ancient international language—the "first internet" Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/691050 Israeli Christian Aramaic Association - http://www.aramaic-center.com/?lang=en A History of the First World Language - https://a.co/d/fjHe9C1 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

What if one of the Torah's greatest heroes was actually its most scandalous trickster? In this episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Adam Mintz dive into one of the most provocative moments in the Torah: Jacob's audacious act of deception to secure his father Isaac's blessing in Parashat Toldot. Rather than smoothing over the ethical wrinkles, we sit with the discomfort, exploring why the Torah insists on portraying our third patriarch as a trickster—and what we're meant to learn from a hero whose virtues are tangled with flaws. Key Takeaways The Torah Embraces Imperfect Heroes prompting readers to grapple with imperfection as part of the human and spiritual journey. Biblical stories were shaped by and for public reading; audiences came with expectations based on oral traditions and prior knowledge. Spiritual growth often requires confrontations with failure and the "divine ruse"—a process of growth through challenge, not perfection. Timestamps [00:00:00] Geoffrey opens the episode and introduces the problem of Jacob stealing the blessing. [00:00:25] He reframes the question: maybe the Torah wants us to sit with the discomfort. [00:00:47] Overview of themes: ancient oil traditions, imperfect heroes, Maimonides on change. [00:01:08] Show intro + housekeeping (YouTube, Substack, source sheet, reviews). [00:01:27] Main question of the week: why portray Jacob this way, and are we projecting modern morality? [00:02:18] Opening character analysis: Jacob's name, symbolism of "heel holder," zig-zag personality. [00:04:01] Plot recap: Isaac asks Esau for hunted game, Rebecca overhears and initiates the plan. [00:05:02] The key deception moment: Jacob tells Isaac, "I am Esau your firstborn." [00:07:27] Esau's character through rabbinic commentary: glutton, outdoorsman vs. Jacob the tent-dweller. [00:22:03] Jacob's consequences begin: exile, never seeing his mother again, being tricked by Laban. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/689945 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

What happens when women finally enter the conversation that's been about them all along? In this episode of Madlik: Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz are joined by Prof. Rabbi Wendy Zierler — Sigmund Falk Professor of Modern Jewish Literature and Feminist Studies at HUC-JIR, ordained by Yeshivat Maharat, and author of Going Out with Knots: My Two Kaddish Years with Hebrew Poetry. Key Takeaways Expect to rethink assumptions about primary biblical characters—especially the matriarchs—and appreciate the living tradition of midrash as a vehicle for creativity and challenge. Hear how feminist perspectives and modern poetry revitalize Jewish text study, offering new interpretations for "the life of Sarah"—and the legacies that women shape. Explore the argument that literary and artistic creation in Hebrew is as much a part of Jewish commentary as classic text study. Timestamps [00:00:00] Geoffrey introduces the episode and guest Rabbi Professor Wendy Zierler, setting up a feminist exploration of Sarah's story in Genesis. [00:02:31] Discussion begins on Sarah's laughter and how women's scholarship reframes her response and role in Torah narratives. [00:03:46] Wendy explains the irony of "Chayei Sarah" focusing on Sarah's death and how reading the gaps reveals her inner life. [00:05:36] They examine Abraham and Sarah's separation after the Akedah and what it reveals about love, obedience, and divine testing. [00:09:02] Wendy argues the Akedah causes a rupture—between Abraham and Sarah, Abraham and Isaac, and even Abraham and God. [00:12:40] The hosts explore new feminist midrash: Sarah's imagined agency, waiting for angels, and representing love over fear. [00:17:22] Conversation turns to Sarah's burial choice as an act of leadership that shaped the matriarchal roots of the Jewish story. [00:19:53] Transition to Wendy's book Going Out with Knots and how Hebrew poetry became her lens for mourning and feminist study. [00:21:41] Wendy teaches Leia Goldberg's reinterpretation of "the three pillars of the world," highlighting women's creative renewal of tradition. [00:26:42] Discussion closes with Yehuda Amichai's outsider voice, women's return to Hebrew literature, and modern creativity as living midrash. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet:https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/688219 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/ Link to Wendy's Book: https://jps.org/books/going-out-with-knots/ Link to theTorah.com article: https://www.thetorah.com/article/sarah-finally-separates-herself-from-abraham  

A Netflix rom-com jokes that Judaism "encourages me to argue." Turns out, that's not a joke—it's what set Abraham apart. A Netflix rom-com gives us a throwaway line that might be the most Jewish thing ever said on screen. When a young rabbi admits that Judaism loves two opposing opinions, his girlfriend lights up: "A religion that encourages me to argue? Love that." It's meant as a joke, but this week's Torah portion proves her right. Sarah laughs at divine promises, Abraham bargains with God over justice, and on Mount Moriah, even silence feels like protest. Judaism doesn't shy from disagreement—it builds holiness out of it. In Nobody Wants This Argument With God, we explore how faith, laughter, and dissent became inseparable in the Jewish imagination. Key Takeaways From Sarah's laughter to Abraham's debate, the Torah's heroes don't obey blindly — they question boldly. In Judaism, arguing with God isn't heresy — it's how prayer begins. Laughter is not only a survival mechanism its an act of defiance. Timestamps [00:00:00] Opening story – bingeing "Nobody Wants That" and connecting its theme of argument to the Abraham story. [00:01:22] Framing the Torah portions – arguing as Judaism's "love language." [00:02:19] Introduction to the podcast and this week's Parsha topic. [00:05:34] Beginning analysis of Genesis 18 – Sarah's laughter and disbelief. [00:08:09] Discussion of women's Torah commentary and reinterpretation of Sarah's fear. [00:12:30] Transition to the Sodom narrative – Abraham arguing with God. [00:17:41] Exploration of rabbinic interpretations that amplify Abraham's argument. [00:20:07] "Prayer as battle" – how the rabbis turned debate with God into daily practice. [00:26:13] Transition to the Binding of Isaac – silent inner arguments and faith. [00:30:44] Closing reflections – dialogue with God as Judaism's defining feature and farewell. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet:https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/686496 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

3,000 years after Abraham heard the call to go forth, a group of 20 somethings booked a one-way ticket to Ben-Gurion. What if the journey of Abraham in the Torah mirrors the modern-day aliyah experience? In this episode we dive into the modern-day "Lech Lecha" story with Noah Efron from The Promised Podcast. From his Young Judea roots to teaching at Bar Ilan University, Noah shares his journey of making aliyah (immigration to Israel) from America in the early 80s, offering a fascinating perspective on what it means to "go forth" in our generation. Key Takeaways The power of community in the aliyah experience The unique perspective of being both an insider and outsider in Israel The evolving nature of Israeli society towards greater inclusivity Timestamps [00:00:00] – Opening narration: "Picture standing on the edge of an unfamiliar land…" — Sets up Abraham's journey and the metaphor for modern Aliyah. [00:00:48] – Introduction of guest: Geoffrey introduces Noah Efron and outlines his background—academic, political, and as host of The Promised Podcast. [00:02:00] – Podcast welcome + theme framing: Geoffrey and Rabbi Adam introduce the episode's focus—connecting Abraham's "Lech Lecha" journey to Noah's personal Aliyah story. [00:05:46] – Noah begins his Aliyah story: Reflects on family, children, and how Young Judaea shaped his decision to move to Israel with his wife and friends. [00:09:54] – Community and creation: Noah describes building new communities, egalitarian spaces, and shaping Israel through civic involvement and local politics. [00:11:22] – Raising Israeli-born children: Noah reflects emotionally on seeing his kids grow up Hebrew-speaking, communal, and connected—contrasting American vs. Israeli culture. [00:15:42] – Anglo influence in Israel: Discussion turns to American Jews' cultural and social contributions—environmentalism, NGOs, and pluralism—forming a distinct "ethnic group" within Israel. [00:20:31] – Bridging identities: Noah explains how he respects Haredi (Ultra-Orthodox) culture and values, despite being secular-left politically—revealing his nuanced, integrative outlook. [00:28:24] – Text study & reflection: Geoffrey brings in a Midrash about Abraham choosing industrious Canaanites; parallels to modern Israeli industriousness ("startup nation") and shared society. [00:29:55] – Closing vision: Noah's optimism—believing Israeli society continues to expand its "us," becoming more inclusive, compassionate, and interconnected. Ends with reflection on Ger v'Toshav (stranger and citizen) identity. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/684491 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

Do They Really Speak with One Voice?" Yigal Carmon on the Arab Street In a world where words can both unite and divide, understanding the true meaning behind them is more crucial than ever. This week's Madlik episode delves deep into the power of language, translation, and cultural understanding with special guest Yigal Carmon, founder of the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI). Key Takeaways The Deception of Unity: The illusion of a single voice in the Arab world often masks complex realities and diverse opinions. Translation is Not Enough: Simply bridging the language gap doesn't guarantee understanding. Context and cultural nuances are crucial. Hope in Unexpected Places: Amid challenges, there are voices of reform and progress in the Middle East that often go unnoticed. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Yigal Carmon and MEMRI 01:50 Welcome to Madlik 02:13 Introducing Yigal Carmon 04:09 Yigal Carmon's Personal Journey 07:28 The Power of Language and Translation 11:42 Warnings and Ignored Signs 22:25 Current Geopolitical Landscape 35:03 Challenges and Hope for the Future 37:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/682911 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/ Memri website: https://www.memri.org/  

The Bible's most revolutionary concept wasn't monotheism - it was something far more profound. What if the most revolutionary idea in human history wasn't freedom, democracy, or even monotheism — but a single verse from Genesis? This week on Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz are joined by Dr. Tomer Persico, author of In God's Image: How Western Civilization Was Shaped by a Revolutionary Idea. Together, they explore how the Torah's concept of tzelem Elohim — the image of God — was originally understood not as a metaphor, but as something startlingly literal: humanity as the actual analog of the divine. The conversation also traces how Christianity, more than Judaism, adopted and amplified this idea — translating it into the language of conscience, equality, and individual dignity. Does that history diminish the Jewish claim to tzelem Elohim or, paradoxically, confirm its enduring power? Finally, the discussion turns inward: once God's mind becomes internalized within the human mind, religion itself becomes a human sense — like music or beauty — embedded in the architecture of our consciousness. Studying religion, then, is not just the study of the divine, but the study of what makes us most profoundly human. Key Takeaways The concept of humans being created in God's image was revolutionary because it applied to everyone, not just rulers or heroes. Taking the idea of God's image literally led to profound implications for human rights and dignity. The "image of God" concept evolved through Christianity and ultimately influenced secularization and the emancipation of the Jews Timestamps [00:00:27] — Opening narration begins: "What if one of the most radical ideas in human intellectual history…" [00:01:42] — Host commentary: Jeffrey connects the "image of God" to the modern idea of dignity and introduces the hope for the hostages. [00:02:34] — Guest introduction: Dr. Tomer Persico is welcomed; he explains his research journey and the origins of his book. [00:05:19] — Defining the radical idea: Persico explains how "in God's image" reframed power, privilege, and ethics in Western culture. [00:07:45] — Literal God debate: Discussion turns to the ancient Israelite belief that God had a visible, bodily form. [00:10:12] — Reframing idolatry: Persico redefines idolatry as failing to see the divine in people, not in statues. [00:14:18] — Birth of human rights: Conversation about Genesis 9:6 and how individuality replaced collective punishment. [00:18:47] — The Christian turn: How Christianity internalized the "image of God" into conscience and reason—laying foundations for science. [00:25:26] — Secular autonomy and modernity: How reverence for human autonomy led to the rise of secularism and liberal rights. [00:31:38] — Closing reflection: The innate "hunch" or instinct toward the sacred—"we do God" naturally—and the episode's farewell prayer for hostages. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/681682 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

The Exodus isn't just a story—it's the operating system of Jewish practice. Most of us were taught that the reason we sit in a sukkah for a full week is to commemorate the booths that the Children of Israel lived in during their forty years in the desert. We might even quote the verse in Leviticus that makes this claim — the only agricultural holiday that the Torah itself re-purposes. The problem is… not only modern scholars, but all the classical rabbinic commentators either don't take that explanation literally or find it riddled with problems. Over and over again, the Torah describes the Israelites living in tents, not harvest booths. If Sukkot really commemorates the Exodus, why don't we hold the Passover seder inside a sukkah? And while we're at it — what crops did the Israelites grow in the desert that could justify a harvest festival at all? Rashi turns the booths into clouds of glory. Rashbam turns them into a moral test of humility and gratitude. Ibn Ezra points to cold desert nights, while Rabbeinu Bahya imagines caravans bringing the necessary organic, plant-based roofing materials (Schach) from afar. Everyone, it seems, is trying to solve a puzzle. And that puzzle leads to a deeper question: Why does the Torah — and later Judaism — weave "Remembering the Exodus from Egypt" (zecher l'tziat Mitzrayim) into every corner of Jewish life? Into holidays that have nothing to do with Egypt, into Shabbat, even into the laws of interest and weights and measures. As we finish the Five Books of Moses, we marvel at how the Exodus became Judaism's Operating System. Key Takeaways The Torah itself repurposed Sukkot to commemorate the Exodus, sparking centuries of discussion. Rabbinic commentators struggled to reconcile agricultural roots with historical significance. Sukkot exemplifies how the Exodus narrative became the "operating system" of Jewish practice. Timestamps 00:00 Exploring the Connection Between Sukkot and the Exodus 00:59 Transitioning from High Holidays to Sukkot 02:04 The Agricultural and Historical Significance of Sukkot 06:08 Rashi's Interpretation: Clouds of Glory vs. Literal Booths 13:29 Modern Academic Perspectives on Sukkot 24:12 The Broader Impact of the Exodus on Jewish Tradition 30:06 Jonah's Booth and the Connection to Yom Kippur 32:05 Conclusion and Reflections Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/680496 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

From Moses to Leonard Cohen: The unexpected dilemma at the heart of Jewish prayer Leonard Cohen called If It Be Your Will "a sort of a prayer." In this episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz uncover just how deeply Jewish that prayer really is. Drawing on the words of Moses in Ha'azinu, the Psalms of David, the prayer of Hannah, and rabbinic debates in the Talmud and Maimonides' Guide for the Perplexed, we explore how Cohen's haunting lyrics echo one of the most radical ideas in Jewish liturgy: that prayer itself requires God's permission. From whispered lips to audacious praise, from silence as the highest form of worship to the chutzpah of demanding forgiveness, this episode connects the High Holidays' most prayer-rich moments to Cohen's timeless song. Was Cohen consciously channeling biblical and rabbinic texts he knew from childhood? We think the evidence is striking. Join us as we show how If It Be Your Will isn't just a song—it's the continuation of a 3,000-year-old Jewish wrestling match with the meaning of prayer. Key Takeaways The Audacity of Prayer: We examine the chutzpah of addressing God and the need for "permission" to pray. Silent Revolution: Hannah's innovation of praying silently and its impact on Jewish prayer traditions. Words Matter: The power and peril of language in prayer, and why sometimes silence speaks loudest. Timestamps [00:00:00] Opening reflection on Yom Kippur and the nature of prayer. [00:02:00] Deuteronomy 32—Moses asking permission to speak. [00:04:00] Psalms as a source: prayer from both mouth and heart. [00:06:00] Transition from singular to plural in liturgy. [00:10:00] Hannah's silent prayer as a model for Jewish prayer. [00:13:00] Out loud vs. silent prayer; Shema as an exception. [00:17:00] Can one pray all day? Talmudic debate. [00:20:00] Concluding prayers about words and their power. [00:23:00] The audacity of praising God—permission to pray. [00:28:00] Leonard Cohen's "If It Be Your Will" as modern midrash. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/679254 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/ Leonard Cohen - If It Be Your Will - https://youtu.be/SDemnguRYj4?si=7YGgCucKZ5-0fwFy  

What if our High Holiday rituals are secretly about confronting aging? Aging Gracefully: Rethinking Our Approach to the Elderly As we approach Yom Kippur, a time of reflection and renewal, it's fitting to explore a topic that touches us all: aging. In this episode of Madlik, we delve into the often-overlooked issue of how our society treats and cares for the elderly. With insights from our special guest, Yossi Heymann, director of JDC Eshel and the visionary behind Muni100, we uncover surprising perspectives on aging in Jewish tradition and modern Israel. Key Takeaways Ancient Assumptions: Did Jewish society assume the elderly would be cared for in ways we've forgotten? Hidden Strength: Moses at 120 - a paradox of frailty and vigor that challenges our perceptions of aging. Modern Solutions: Discover how Israeli municipalities are redesigning cities to promote "optimal aging" for centenarians. Timestamps [00:00:00] Geoffrey opens: Bible's silence on elderly as vulnerable; Moses at 120—weakness or hidden strength? [00:01:00] High Holidays as communal ritual for aging; guest Yossi Hyman introduced. [00:02:37] Yossi's background: IDF career → JDC Eshel → Muni 100 mission on optimal aging. [00:05:57] Geoffrey on Moses' mobility, Rashi's interpretations, bias against infirmity. [00:08:27] Adam: Torah rarely shows sickness; pre-modern view of aging and illness. [00:12:08] Yossi explains Muni 100's 3 indicators: mobility, walking, participation. [00:18:33] Social needs of elderly: synagogue, camaraderie, public spaces. [00:23:15] Honoring elderly vs. sages; wisdom and age in Jewish tradition. [00:26:27] Yossi: Israel's family culture, aging in place, survey of 12,000 adults. [00:33:27] Rosh Hashanah/Yom Kippur as communal confrontation with aging; closing reflections and blessings. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/678049 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

From Woodchoppers to Kings: How the Torah's Radical Covenant Redefined Ancient Politics In this episode we're diving into the radical inclusivity of the covenant in Parashat Nitzavim. From princes to woodchoppers, everyone is called to stand before God. But there's more to this than meets the eye. We explore how the rabbis upped the ante, suggesting these "woodchoppers and water carriers" might have been outsiders or even forbidden Canaanites. This covenant wasn't just inclusive - it was pushing boundaries. Key Takeaways Radical Inclusion: The covenant encompasses everyone, from leaders to strangers, even those not yet born. It's a deliberate expansion of who "belongs." Divine Democracy: By making God the sole sovereign, the covenant undermines human hierarchies. It's a blueprint for egalitarian society. Movement Dynamics: The text reveals an evolving community, with various motivations for joining. It challenges our notions of purity and belonging. Timestamps [00:00] The first "We the People" — long before Jefferson [01:20] Who were the wood choppers and water carriers? [03:10] Covenant as a new movement before entering the land [05:30] Outsiders joining Israel — sincere converts or cunning opportunists? [07:45] Commentaries on inclusion, agency, and social hierarchy [10:00] The mixed multitude and converts of convenience [12:45] Are menial roles punishment or sacred service? [14:20] Radical responsibility — why every member matters [20:10] Joshua and the Gibeonites: deception, covenant, and consequences [28:15] Covenant as political revolution — God as king, no man as master Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/675947 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

Why Some Torah Laws were Meant to be Heard not followed Live at the JCC's new Shtiebel, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz ask: what do we learn from laws that never happened? From the rebellious son to Bialik's Halakha and Aggada, discover halakhah as a language of Jewish life. In this week's episode of Madlik, we delve into a fascinating exploration of Jewish law that challenges our conventional understanding of mitzvot (commandments). As we navigate through the complexities of Halakhah, we uncover a profound truth: sometimes, the most impactful lessons come not from observance, but from observing and listening. Key Takeaways The Rebellious Son: A law that never was and never will be, yet teaches us volumes. Halakha as Language: How Jewish law communicates deeper truths beyond mere observance. Bialik's Perspective: The unexpected harmony between Halakha and Aggadah from a secular Jewish thinker. Timestamps [00:00:37] Intro — recording live at the JCC Manhattan [00:01:42] Mitzvot as a cultural language, not just observance [00:02:56] The rebellious son in Deuteronomy 21 and its harsh punishment [00:04:13] Talmud: "There never was and never will be a rebellious son" [00:06:18] Death penalty framed as pedagogy vs deterrence [00:07:45] Fear as a teaching tool, like fairytales and folklore [00:08:32] The "idolatrous city" — another law never fulfilled [00:11:09] Reward in Torah study as outcome, not payment [00:15:47] Maimonides reduces 248 commandments to only 60 definite ones [00:20:36] Soloveitchik: Halakha as the language of Judaism Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/672006 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

Are there times were we should strive not to be present or in the moment? As we enter the month of Elul and approach the High Holidays, many of us instinctively tighten our grip on spiritual practices. We double down on prayer, intensify our focus, and strive for flawless kavanah (intention). But what if true holiness sometimes emerges when we loosen our hold? In this week's Torah portion, Ki Teitze, we encounter a surprising perspective on mitzvot (commandments) that challenges our assumptions about intentionality and control. Let's explore how embracing the unintentional might deepen our spiritual practice and transform our relationship with the Divine. Key Takeaways The nuanced approach to returning lost objects and when it's okay to "hide your eyes" How the agricultural law of forgotten sheaves (shichecha) relates to selective memory during the High Holidays The serendipitous nature of the bird's nest commandment and its character and environmental implications Timestamps [00:00:00] Holiness in forgetting and letting go [00:02:07] Rabbi joins from Italy [00:03:00] Announcements and upcoming live event [00:04:00] Returning lost objects in Deuteronomy [00:06:03] The subway lesson: looking away [00:09:00] Exceptions to returning lost items [00:12:00] The mitzvah of forgetting sheaves in the field [00:17:00] Selective memory and Rosh Hashanah [00:22:00] The bird's nest commandment [00:28:00] Wrapping up: intentional vs. unintentional holiness Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/672300 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

The Torah bans bribery — so why do our holiest rituals look like payoffs? We're diving into a provocative topic as we enter the month of Elul - bribes, sacrifices, and cosmic payoffs in Judaism. We explore the tension between Deuteronomy's clear prohibition on bribery and the sacrificial rituals found elsewhere in the Torah that look suspiciously like attempts to curry favor with the divine. Key Takeaways The language of bribery and ransom intersects with concepts of atonement in Jewish texts Deuteronomy emphasizes internal purification over ritualistic practices Rituals like Kaparot and Tashlich can be viewed as attempts to influence divine judgment Timestamps [00:00:00] Bribery in Torah and the puzzle of Yom Kippur's absence in Deuteronomy [00:02:29] Surprising omission of the High Holidays in Deuteronomy [00:03:00] Deuteronomy's clear ban on bribery and its implications [00:06:20] Ransom, redemption, and the link to atonement [00:08:06] Rambam and the scapegoat: is it a bribe to Satan? [00:12:00] Rambam's sensitivity: accusations of idolatry and bribery in ritual [00:15:05] Yom Kippur as atonement—bribe or genuine repentance? [00:17:00] Deuteronomy's alternate vision: inner repentance over ritual [00:19:46] The Christian "Ransom Theory" of atonement and Jewish parallels [00:23:50] Kapparot, petty bribery, and the danger of cheap rituals Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/671028 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/

The Radical Contraction and expansion of Ancient Israelite Religion The book of Deuteronomy presents a radical shift in religious practice that continues to shape modern Judaism and beyond. Far from expanding religious institutions as empires typically do, Deuteronomy takes the surprising approach of contracting and centralizing worship while simultaneously broadening its reach into everyday life. This week's Torah portion, Re'eh, highlights this revolutionary approach. It restricts temple worship to a single location and forbids importing practices from other cultures. At first glance, this seems counterintuitive. Why limit religious expression when entering a new land? Key Takeaways Deuteronomy proposes a unique path that refuses both colonization and cultural blending The centralization of worship and prohibition of foreign practices creates a religious vacuum This approach leads to a transformation of holiness from specific locations to everyday life Timestamps [00:00:00] The radical shift in Deuteronomy – centralizing worship and banning outside practices [00:02:52] Why centralized worship was so controversial [00:04:28] Should destroyed cultures still influence us? [00:07:22] Why Israelites were tempted by idols [00:09:28] Borrowing rituals from other religions [00:12:39] Contracting Judaism as expansion begins [00:16:39] Religion beyond the land of Israel [00:19:41] The diaspora's role in the covenant [00:22:42] Sacralization vs. secularization of daily life [00:27:54] Final reflections and closing blessings Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/668904 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/