JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Confronting the Challenges of This Generation
Ben and Benzi | Geonic-Maimonidean
Do you have questions that the educational system didn't adequately address? Today, there are many who don't find Torah to be compelling or relevant as we are faced with unprecedented challenges such as the OTD phenomenon, suppression of ideas, cover-ups, assimilation, skepticism, biblical criticism, charlatanism, atheism, and a slew of other existential threats. As 2 lifelong Sepharadi friends, we decided to create the Torah content we couldn't find elsewhere: long-form discussions with thinkers from various areas of expertise, presenting unique insights that inspire a return to fundamentals.
Episode 116: Rabbi David Wolpe "Responding to Doubt, Division and Tragedy"
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 explore
Episode 115: Dr. Erica Brown "The Torah of Leadership"
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 lead
Episode 114: Rabbi Dr. Zvi Grumet "From Creation to Covenant"
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
Episode 113: Joshua Skarf "Torah Through the Lens of Architecture"
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
Episode 112: Rabbi David Aaron "Off the Derekh"
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 e
Episode 111: Reb Zvi Goldstein "The End of Days"
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 Mas
Episode 110: Channah Cohen "Guardians of the Flame"
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 h
Episode 109: Rabbi Simi Lerner "Rediscovering Rav Hirsch's Wisdom"
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
Episode 108: Rabbi Gil Student "Articles of Faith"
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
Episode 107: Rabbi Abe H. Faur "Alphabetic Judaism"
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
Episode 106: Rabbi Moshe Taragin "Reclaiming Redemption"
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 Jewis
Episode 105: David Curwin "Neighbors Behind Fences"
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 diffe
Episode 104: Dr. Paul Copan "Is God a Moral Monster?"
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 with
Episode 103: Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum "Questioning Belief"
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 grappli
Episode 102: Rabbi Steven Pruzansky "Repentance for Life"
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 convers
Episode 101: Rabbi Yaakov Beasley "Facing the Storm"
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
Episode 100: Rabbi Abe H. Faur "The Jewish People at a Crossroads"
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
Episode 99: Rabbi Avi Grossman "Halakha Demystified"
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 halak
Episode 98: Rabbi Chaim Eisen & Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein "Does God Need Us?"
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 rab
Episode 97: Rabbi Moshe Taragin "Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below"
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
Episode 96: Ami Kozak, Comedian "Jewish Humor in Chaotic Times"
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 al
Episode 95: Rabbi Shmuel Phillips "Talmud Reclaimed"
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-tiere
Episode 94: Dr. Roslyn Weiss "Light of the Lord"
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 stru
Episode 93: Rabbi Chaim Eisen "Jewish Philosophy Matters"
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 su
Episode 92: Dr. William Lane Craig "Rational Arguments for God's Existence"
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, challe
Episode 91: Frank Meeink "Chronicles of a Recovering Skinhead"
"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 h
Episode 90: Professor Daniel C. Matt "Becoming Elijah"
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 s
Episode 89: Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss & Rabbi Dovid Campbell "Getting to Know Ralbag"
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 Cam
Episode 88: Professor Lawrence H. Schiffman "The Dead Scrolls Unearthed"
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 e
Episode 87: Professor Lenn E. Goodman "Depopulating the Heavens"
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
Episode 86: J.J. Kimche "Assessing the Gush Tanakh Method"
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, synta
Episode 85: Rabbi Yitzhak Berdugo "The Legacy of Rabbeinu Avraham Ben HaRambam"
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
Episode 84: Rabbi Dr. Marc B. Shapiro "The Rabbinic Response to the Rise of Reform"
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
Episode 83: Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin "Rationalism vs. Mysticism"
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 de
Episode 82: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Elisha Ben Abuyah in the Bavli"
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
Episode 81: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Elisha Ben Abuyah in the Yerushalmi"
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 wi
Episode 80: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Elisha Ben Abuyah in the Tosefta"
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 wi
Episode 79: J.J. Kimche & Daniel A. Klein "Letters on Kabbalah"
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 distinguis
Episode 78: Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot "Mikra & Meaning"
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 int
Episode 77: Rabbi Michael Hattin "The Challenge of the Promised Land"
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
Episode 76: Rabbi Nathan Laufer "Rosh Hashana Revealed"
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
Episode 75: Elisheva Liss, LMFT "Healthy Intimate Relationships"
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, offerin
Episode 74: Rabbi Dr. Samuel Lebens "A Guide to the Jewish Undecided"
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 th
Episode 73: David Curwin "A Map to Eden"
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 th
Episode 72: Dr. Erica Brown "Kohelet and the Search for Meaning"
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
Episode 71: Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman "The Resonating Trauma of Lamentations"
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 conversat
Episode 70: Rabbi Jeremy Wieder "The Modern Orthodox Economic Crisis"
The Modern Orthodox community is currently facing financial and moral challenges posed by materialism. Rabbi Jeremy Wieder explains the impact of lavish practices, the clash between individualism and communal responsibility, and the financial and social pressures of "keeping up with the Joneses." Extravagant Passover programs, opulent celebrations, and exorbitant yeshiva tuition costs have raised concerns about inclusivity and the essence of religious values. The Rabbi provides a comprehensive a
Episode 69: Scott Hertzl Cohanpour "A.I. and Religion"
Join us for an enlightening interview with the renowned Information Technology expert Scott Hertzl Cohanpour as we explore the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into how AI works, its associated risks, and the role of moral teachings in its governance. Can the Ten Commandments guide AI? Don't miss this captivating episode, where Scott shares insights on AI's decision-making mechanisms and how it processes vast amounts of data. We also addr
Episode 68: Dr. Yoram Hazony "Torah Values in Today's World"
In his book Conservatism: A Rediscovery, Dr. Yoram Hazony discusses how Anglo-American conservatism became a distinctive alternative to divine-right monarchy, Puritan theocracy, and the liberal revolution — and why this idea is as much or more important today than ever before. As an Orthodox Jew, he makes the case that conservatism is a clear Torah value, and over the course of our talk, he provides Biblical support for his thesis. We also discuss why political conservatism is irrelevant without
Episode 67: Professor Kenneth Seeskin "Messianic Thoughts in an Age of Despair"
The idea of the Messiah is both "Pandora's Box and the Elixir of Life," as Dr. Kenneth Seeskin puts it. Join us as the professor dives into the evolution of the Messianic idea throughout history and presents five distinct approaches of the sages (all of which are deeply rooted in explicit TaNaKh verses) aimed at contending with the dichotomy between the hopeful and dangerous aspects of messianism in Jewish thought. He begins by introducing us to the five categories of understanding
Episode 66: Physics to God "God vs. The Multiverse"
Rabbi Dr. Elie Feder and Rabbi Aaron Zimmer, both passionate about the blend of religion and intellect, initially delved into the fine-tuning argument for the existence of God through literature from Smolin and Rees. Unlike the Intelligent Design argument, their focus lay in fundamental physics, not biology. They took their argument public on their former blog, devoted to teaching Talmudic analysis. The argument was refined over around 20 posts, highlighting the conflict between the multiverse c
Episode 65: Dr. Brian Crawford "The Enduring Heresy"
Dr. Crawford shares his experiences visiting Spain and laments the atrocity of the Expulsion and Inquisition while discussing his stance on coercion in religion as a Protestant evangelical Christian. We also learn about his journey in studying Kabbalah and Gnosticism and his feelings about Jewish persecution at the hands of the Catholic Church over the centuries. Theologically speaking, it goes without saying that we disagree with Dr. Crawford about the identity of the Messiah as well as many ot
Episode 64: Reb Alex Guttman "Voodoo Judaism"
Reb Alex Guttman explores the relationship between religion and power/control; how many leaders are afraid of losing their influence or congregation if they choose to approach matters rationally instead of the current catering of "feel-good" magical beliefs. Reb Guttman expresses concern over this recent shift in Judaism, which prioritizes instant gratification and superficial rituals at the expense of having a meaningful relationship with God. He argues that a Jew must have a goal to
Episode 63: Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss "Can God Do the Impossible?"
In this fascinating interview, Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss tackles timeless questions that have ignited debates for centuries: "Can God create a rock He can't lift?" "Can God do anything and everything?" and "Can God do the impossible?" Approaching the question first from the standpoint of logic, and then through the interpretations of prominent medieval commentators (Rambam, Meiri, Saadia Gaon, R' Yosef Albo, and Ramban), Rabbi Schneeweiss explores the implicati
Episode 62: J.J. Kimche "Is the Zohar Authentic?"
Is the Zohar authentic? Join us as we take a deep-dive into one of the most influential and controversial works in Jewish mysticism and the book that changed Judaism forever, the Zohar. Hakham J.J. Kimche provides us with a clear definition of the Zohar, and discusses its major ideas at its core, including the Zohar's new conceptions of theology, Torah and Mitzvot, and mankind/Jews. The authorship of the Zohar is a topic of much debate, and we delve into the subject in this podcast. J.J. Kim
Episode 61: Rabbi Joseph Dweck "Does the Maimonidean Path Lack Spirituality?"
In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Rabbi Joseph Dweck, a distinguished scholar and religious leader, to explore the fascinating world of the Maimonidean tradition and its relevance in today's spiritual landscape. We begin by addressing the question of whether the Maimonidean path lacks "spirituality" (and what that term even means). Rabbi Dweck delves into the common misconception that Maimonidean philosophy focuses more on rationality and intellectual pursuits, often overlooking the
Episode 60: Rabbi Josh Yuter "Sacred Slogans"
Rabbi Josh Yuter, a renowned Torah scholar and teacher, takes us on a journey through the world of "Sacred Slogans." These are phrases and idioms taken from the Torah and Talmud that have been appropriated to promote various agendas. But what makes them so powerful is that they are infused with the cultural weight of religious authority. We begin by exploring the concept of "Tzelem Elokim" or "Imago Dei," which asserts that all human beings are created in the image
Episode 59: Rabbi Jeremy Rosen "Dealing with Strife & Grief"
Rabbi Jeremy Rosen shares his unique perspective on the balance between rationality and mysticism growing up in a Litvish and Hassidic household. He discusses the trend in the frum world where religious observance is becoming stricter and stricter, and how this phenomenon can be attributed to the Holocaust and Israeli politics. As we delve deeper into the conversation, Rabbi Rosen speaks about the current mood in the Haredi and Hassidic communities and how he sees the "tail wagging the dog." He
Episode 58: Ike Dweck "Overcoming Addiction"
Ike Dweck shares his inspiring journey from being a compulsive gambler to founding The Safe Foundation and saving the lives of addicts. He discusses the challenges of dealing with the stigma of addiction in Jewish communities and how his organization addresses this issue. One of the obstacles that children face is the mixed messages they receive from their parents who may drink heavily at parties, Kiddush Clubs, and holidays. Ike also delves into the question of how someone knows they have a pro
Episode 57: Rabbi Yonatan Halevy "Bridging the Religious Divide"
Rabbi Yonatan Halevy shares his personal journey to becoming the rabbi of his community and sheds light on the differences between Sephardic and Ashkenazi communities with regards to halacha and hashkafa. He offers insightful solutions to bridge the cultural and religious divide, emphasizing the importance of education in secular matters alongside Torah, as mandated by our tradition. One of the highlights of the conversation is our discussion
about Rabbi Halevy's video series, "Crimes of Kiruv,"
Episode 56: Pastor Dumisani Washington "Zionism and the Black Church"
We had the privilege of interviewing Pastor Dumisani Washington, a prominent figure in the Black Christian community and a great supporter of Jews and Zionism. During our discussion, we delved into the concerning trends of antizionism and antisemitism that are prevalent in America and the world today, particularly in Hollywood and on college campuses. We also addressed the attacks on Jewish identity by Black Hebrew Israelites, Kyrie Irving, and Kanye West, as well as the dangerous rise of Jew ha
Episode 55: Rabbi Yamin Levy "The Mysticism of Andalusia"
Rabbi Yamin Levy's phenomenal new book, The Mysticism of Andalusia: Exploring HaRambam's Mystical Tradition, is a remarkable presentation of the Andalusian tradition, a significant but often overlooked part of Jewish history. In this episode, Rabbi Levy shares invaluable insights into the teachings of HaRambam through meticulous research and analysis, challenging the misconceptions that have long surrounded this pivotal figure. His book effectively refutes the notion that Rambam was a "daat yach
Episode 54: Imu Shalev "Torah Meets Technology"
Join us as we sit down with Imu Shalev, the CEO and COO of Aleph Beta, one of the most innovative Torah learning tools on the internet. Imu shares his journey of how he went from being the Director of the Maccabeats and Producer for Mayim Bialik's successful YouTube channel to his current position. Imu also talks about how Rabbi David Fohrman's tireless work ethic and innovative approach to learning TaNaKh changed his own approach to Torah study. He highlights specific lessons that stand
Episode 53: Joseph Cohen "Facing Antisemitism & Antizionism"
Joseph Cohen, the founder of the Israel Advocacy Movement, addresses the meteoric rise of antisemitism and antizionism around the world. Zionism is a concept that means different things to different people, and unfortunately, it often gets a bad rap, particularly on campuses and in the media these days. He helps us understand why this is the case and the different interpretations of Zionism.
Joseph clears up many misconceptions about the Israel-Palestine conflict, such as the Palestinians being
Episode 52: Rabbi Dr. Eugene Korn "To Be a Holy People"
Rabbi Dr. Eugene Korn explores the relevance of Jewish ethics for observant and non-observant Jews, the importance of ethical values in halakha (as a person can technically observe the law and still be a scoundrel), and the need to stand up against religious extremism and violence. What do we make of God seemingly condoning slavery in the Torah? What is the significance of forging a national identity from our own enslavement in Egypt? Rabbi Korn delves into the relationship between Jewish ethic
Episode 51: Dr. Malka Simkovich "The Lost Era Between Prophets & Rabbis"
Dr. Malka Simkovich joined us to discuss her educational background in Second Temple Judaism. She pointed out the dissonance between her TaNaKh studies from her Orthodox Jewish education and Bible studies from academia. In previous episodes (with Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman, Rabbi Jeremy Weider, and Rabbi David Fohrman), we made our case for the authenticity of our Mesorah, defending it from attacks of Biblical Source Critics. However, in this conversation, Dr. Simkovich takes a different approach.
Episode 50: Rick Alan Ross "Cults Inside Out"
In this very unique episode, we interview cult-expert Rick Alan Ross to shed light on the definition of a cult and the techniques they use to recruit and control their members. Some historical and recent examples of cults include Adolph Hitler, Branch Davidians, Scientology, Bhagwan Shree Rajneesh (Osho), and Lev Tahor. Ross explains common cult techniques people should look out for and who is generally susceptible. He also answers the question of whether a cult needs to be an organized group th
Episode 49: Daniel Jonas "Gnosticism, Kabbalah & Fundamentalism"
We spoke with Daniel Jonas about the Jewish and non-Jewish roots of Kabbalah, with insights from his decades of experience in dialogue with not only Christians and Muslims but modern neo-pagans, Wiccans and occultists working in the Western Mystery Tradition. Daniel analyzed the non-Jewish roots of Kabbalah in neo-Platonic and Gnostic philosophies influenced by Greek, Egyptian, Persian and Indian approaches, as well as the Jewish esoteric schools of antiquity and how this affects the theological
Episode 48: Reb David Guttmann "Judaism without Superstition"
We had an enlightening conversation with Reb David Guttmann about the reasons behind the mitzvot. While some rabbis today are more interested in the "how" of observing mitzvot, we looked deeper into the "why," exploring the meaning behind these actions and their impact on our lives. We discussed the dangers of attaching magical thinking and superstition to mitzvot, which can turn people off and detract from their true purpose. One misconception about mitzvot is the belief that doing them will le
Episode 47: Mori Michael-Shelomo Bar-Ron "Genesis, Evolution & Pre-Adamite Man"
Mori Michael-Shelomo Bar-Ron sheds light on how a rational approach to Torah not only harmonizes with the age of the universe and theory of evolution but also deepens our understanding of it. By examining the literary structure of the six days of creation, we can properly contextualize the process of creation and gain insights into the alignment of the Torah with modern cosmology, paleontology, and science. We also delve into the meaning behind unclear terms like "created", "made", and "formed",
Episode 46: Yirmiyahu Danzig "The Battle Over Jewish Identity"
Yirmiyahu "That Semite" Danzig joins the podcast to discuss his journey into social media activism and clarify the different aspects of Jewish identity. He explains the difference between being Jewish, Judean, Israelite, and Hebrew and addresses the rise of antisemitism in America, including a discussion about whether or not the recent controversial comments made by Joe Rogan about Jews and money is problematic. We delve into the historical inaccuracies and harmful tropes depicted in the media a
Episode 45: Rabbi Yoni Sacks "Simplifying Torah Study"
Rabbi Yoni Sacks presents us with an approach to Torah study that is a lost art: mastering the basics first. Rabbi Sacks shares his personal journey to Rambam, exploring the ways in which today's approach to Talmud Torah diverges from the original teachings of Moshe at Sinai. He takes a deep dive into the core problems with Torah study that Rambam identified, and how these problems are present in our current community's approach to Talmud Torah. This is an episode not to be missed, as Rabbi Sack
Episode 44: Dr. Jacob Howland "Plato and the Talmud"
In a fascinating discussion with Dr. Jacob Howland about his book, Plato and the Talmud, we delve into his groundbreaking study. In it, he examines the relationship between Athens and Jerusalem through the lens of the Platonic dialogues and the Talmud. Dr. Howland argues that both of these texts share similar ideas about the role of inquiry and debate in religious life and a deep understanding of the limits of human comprehension of divine things. He dives into insightful interpretations of Plat
Episode 43: Imam Abdullah Antepli "May the Sons of Abraham Unite"
In a thought-provoking discussion with Imam Abdullah Antepli, he talks about growing up in a secular family in Turkey and overcoming the Antisemitic indoctrination in his youth. He responds to the notion that Jew hatred is baked into Christianity and Islam and, therefore, unstoppable. We delve into the similarities between Judaism and Islam, our complicated history living together, contextualizing Zionism, the promising impact of the Abraham Accords, and pay tribute to his friend and our inspira
Episode 42: Rabbi Mark Wildes "Kiruv for the Next Generation"
Rabbi Mark Wildes shares his journey in Kiruv and delves into the reasons behind the lack of engagement of many Jews with Judaism. He argues that a lack of proper Jewish education is a major contributor to this and that many people are not turning away from their faith, but simply never had it instilled in them in the first place. What can Ashkenazim and Sephardim learn from each other in terms of how we deal with these matters? Rabbi Wildes sheds light on the current state of Kiruv, which is la
Episode 41: Dr. Brian Keating "God and the Astrophysicists"
Dr. Brian Keating's book 'Losing the Nobel Prize' is a memoir about his scientific and personal journey. In one of his talks, he said, "searching for God was in a way searching for my father." He explains how being estranged from his father impacted his relationship with God. Raised Catholic by his stepfather, he spent a year as an altar boy, but his spiritual search eventually led him to becoming a Baal Teshuva. We discuss how Judaism requires one to ACT, not necessarily to BELIEVE. Discover ho
Episode 40: Rabbi David Fohrman "Method of Midrash & Divine Authorship"
Rabbi David Fohrman has changed the game of online Torah learning with AlephBeta.org, a remarkable and innovative tool for the modern age. In this episode, he describes his methodology in learning the biblical text, of which he brilliantly draws a parallel to the complex interconnectivities of the worldwide web. Additionally, since Midrash is often misunderstood in today’s generation by both the Orthodox and secular world, he advocates for the healthier, classical approach to learning Chazal's l
Episode 39: Professor Menachem Kellner "Maimonides' Confrontation with Mysticism"
In his book 'Maimondes' Confrontation with Mysticism', Professor Menachem Kellner presents the vision and values that Maimonides promoted in his understanding of Judaism, as well as the proto-Kabbalistic cultural climate he campaigned against and tried to uproot. Additionally, no area in Judaism is as fundamental or more essential than Halakha. Kellner provides the framework for Maimonides’ characterization of the institutional value and purpose of Halakha. This is crucial to understanding the l
Episode 38: Rich Cohen "The Tough Jews of the Mafia"
Rich Cohen is an American non-fiction writer. He is a contributing editor at Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone. He is co-creator, with Martin Scorsese, Mick Jagger and Terence Winter, of the HBO series Vinyl. His works have been New York Times bestsellers, New York Times Notable Books, and have been collected in the Best American Essays series. In 2022, Cohen became a columnist for the Wall Street Journal. Given his expertise on so many subjects, we asked him to impart some of his knowledge about a
Episode 37: Rabbi Reuven Mann "The Humanity of the Torah"
In his book 'Eternally Yours', Rabbi Reuven Mann makes an important observation: that most religions and political, intellectual, and social movements trace themselves back to a single founder. Yet as great as our Patriarch Avraham was, his legacy is shared by his family and descendants. In this episode, he points out that the Torah doesn't include the concept of "sainthood" (in the Christian sense) but rather the fallibility of our leaders so that we remain faithful to God alone. Avraham went t
Episode 36: Professor Yaacob Dweck "The Scandal of Kabbalah"
Who was Rabbi Leon de Modena and why did he dedicate much of his life to fighting against the Zohar and its influence? Dr. Dweck explains how Modena's reputation within traditional Judaism suffered for a number of reasons, including an unyielding criticism of emerging sects within Judaism. Though he failed to rise to real distinction, one of his most effective works was his attack on the Kabbala (Ari Nohem, first published in 1840). In it, he attempted to demonstrate that the "Bible of the Kabba
Episode 35: Dr. Bernd Wollschlaeger "My Nazi Father & Jewish Soul"
As a teenager, Bernd Wollschlaeger uncovered a very dark secret about his family: that his father was a decorated, high-ranking Nazi who was very proud of his role as a tank commander in Hitler’s army and played a part in the mass murder of innocent people, including children. This discovery, coupled with the murder of Jewish athletes by Palestinian terrorists at the Olympic games in Munich, led Bernd to study history and question everything he was taught. Dr. Wollschlaeger tells us what compell
Episode 34: Rabbi David Rosen "Defining Our Jewish Identity"
Rabbi David Rosen makes a passionate case for a new (yet old) approach to building a strong, sustainable Jewish identity, and how rallying around a flag or conjuring up the holocaust must not be the determining factors of who we are. Today we are seeing a major rise in antisemitism but now it has mutated into something entirely new. The latest iteration of this phenomenon is a bigotry that aims to strip us of our identity. Like when our haters say "antisemitism isn't exclusive to Jews since Arab
Episode 33: Rabbi Dr. Elie Feder "Gematria Refigured"
Gematria is one of the methods of Aggadic interpretation but unfortunately it has developed a bad reputation as something that can be easily manipulated to "prove" any idea. As a respected mathematician and a critical thinker, Rabbi Dr. Elie Feder initially did not find it to be compelling at all. That is until a particular gematria piqued his interest. In this episode, he discusses his journey from skeptic to believer. But what are we to make of Gematrias that are seemingly intellectually disho
Episode 32: Hakham Mordehai Ish Yemini "Why Even Be Maimonidean?"
The Hakham returns and delivers yet another explosive interview. This time he makes a strong case for the practical reasons Jews should return to the classical Sepharadi tradition and explains why the alternative path has led many well-meaning people astray. The popularization of segulot, charlatanism, and the occult over the last few hundred years has left a deep impression on Jewish culture. Although many great rabbis and scholars are keenly aware of the dubious origins of all Kabbalistic lite
Episode 31: Dr. Susan Weissman "Ghosts, Purgatory & the Undead"
Dr. Susan Weissman delivers a thorough examination of particular areas of Sefer Hasidim by Rabbi Yehuda HaHasid. In her book titled 'Final Judgment and the Dead in Medieval Jewish Thought', she presents how influential this book was on Jewish culture, who was Rabbi Yehuda HaHasid, how accepted his book was at that time, and how it impacts Ashkenazi Jewry today. In her book, she compares and contrasts the Talmudic treatment of the dead and afterlife to its treatment in Sefer Hasidim, as well as t
Episode 30: Mitchell First Esq. "Jewish Roots & Rituals"
Mitchell First Esq. examines pre-exilic acrostics that point to the Hebrew letter Pe preceding Ayin in the original order of the Hebrew alphabet (as in Eikhah chaps. 2-4, and based on recent archaeological findings) and the ramifications of this for the book of Tehillim (and for Eshet Hayil). He also makes a strong case for King Ahashverosh and Xerxes being one and the same. If this is true, how can we determine who Queen Esther is in the historical record? The answer may surprise you.
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Episode 29: Rabbi Jonathan Livi "Adam, Eve & The Human Condition"
Rabbi Jonthan Livi, host of 3 Podcasts on Apple (The Parasha Podcast, The Navi Podcast, The Tehillim Podcast), carefully analyzes the nuances of the Garden of Eden narrative and uncovers some of its deepest lessons. The creation epic in the book of Genesis is arguably the most enigmatic, mysterious, and sophisticated text in the entire Torah, containing an endless stream of wisdom at every turn. Is the story of Adam & Hava literal, allegorical, or a mix of both? Rabbi Sacks zt'l eloquently taugh
Episode 28: Rabbi Moshe Ben-Chaim "A Return to Fundamentals"
Rabbi Moshe Ben-Chaim makes a strong case to return to fundamentals by using sources and common sense. He explains how Judaism in the modern age has regressed into magical thinking and superstition. We discuss the following topics: reciting tehillim to heal the sick, treating the mezuzah as a protective amulet, what Chazal meant regarding ayin hara (evil eye) and demonology, reincarnation vs the classical belief of what happens to the soul after death, Mesora.org and 'The Religion of Reason.'
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Episode 27: Professor Matt Goldish "The Sabbatean Prophets"
Dr. Goldish provides a detailed analysis on the history of messianic movements, with a specific focus on a relatively recent false messiah, Shabbetai Ẓevi. We discuss the influence on Zoharic and Lurianic Kabbalah on Ẓevi and his prophet, Nathan of Gaza. This story has been largely swept under the rug and if we don't learn our history, we're doomed to repeat it. What's troubling is that a large portion of the Jewish population believed he was the messiah, including respected Talmidei Hakhamim an
Episode 26: Rabbi Marc D. Angel "The Judaism of Tomorrow"
Rabbi Angel carefully presents the traditional Sepharadi approach to law and life. Do we take a more stringent or lenient approach than Ashkenazim? We live in an age where Judaism is highly fractured with sectarianism, including Ultra-Orthodox, Yeshivish, Haredi, Hassidic, Modern Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist, Secular Zionist, Anti-Zionist, Religious Zionist, etc. Very little (if any) progress has been made in unifying the denominations of Judaism. How are we to lead a path t
Episode 25: Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss "Lessons from a Stoic Jew"
Rabbi Schneeweiss discusses his conversion to Judaism in 11th grade, identifying as Shomer Torah U'Mitzvot (and not a "rationalist"), using Bruce Lee's philosophy for teaching, what it means to be a Stoic Jew, the methodology of Mishlei (Proverbs), Kohelet (Ecclesiastes), and Shir HaShirim (Song of Songs), why it's important to learn Tehillim (Psalms) instead of reading it as an incantation, why we pray if we can't change God's mind, his "Pivot Point" system, and the best resources to learn abou
Episode 24: Rabbi Jeremy Wieder "The Nuances Within the Sources"
Rabbi Wieder explains the concept of Q're (what is read) and Ketib (what is written) and how our Sages approached textual variants in all ancient Torah scrolls (Masoretic, Dead Sea, etc.). In doing so, he clarifies and corrects some of the biggest misconceptions about the integrity and unity of the text, something Bible critics in academia often point to as evidence against the Torah's authenticity. In the second half of the discussion, the Rabbi addresses a very polarizing topic today: abortion
Episode 23: Dr. Jeremy England "Torah & Quantum Mechanics"
Dr. England shares origin story, how he connected to his Jewish roots, his famous moniker as "the next Darwin", and what it's like to have a character in Dan Brown's book based off of him. He addressed the following topics: Do most scientists understand what science is? What does this have to do with the perceived conflict between biblical religion and science? Should we be trying to figure out if the Torah agrees with or “knows about” the discoveries of modern cosmology or paleontology? Did Cha
Episode 22: Rabbi Yitzchak Breitowitz "Torah in a Modern Age"
Rabbi Breitowitz shares his insights on the ethics of separating the art from the artist (as in the most recent case with Chaim Walder), the miraculous existence and success of modern-day Israel (the Haredi argument against Zionism vs the argument for post-facto religious Zionism), the purpose of prayer since we can't change God's mind (and the superstitious elements that some Jews use to close the gap e.g. saying a "mystical" formulation for 40 days by the Kotel, etc.), the recent dogmatic "Daa
Episode 21: Rabbi David Bashevkin "For the Sake of Heaven"
Rabbi Bashevkin explains why stories of tzaddikim are inspiring and beneficial, especially for children. But is this ideal considering that the Torah seems to not hide or sugarcoat the mistakes of our ancestors, while actually making their failures integral to their narratives. If the Torah did not find it beneficial to gloss over the mistakes or flaws of our greatest heroes, why should we employ such thinking today? His answer may surprise you. He also discusses the controversial beliefs of Ish
Episode 20: Professor Lenn E. Goodman "A Guide to the Guide for the Perplexed"
Dr. Goodman brilliantly compares and contrasts Rambam and Nietzche regarding the nature of values and value judgments, presents his understanding of the 'Guide for the Perplexed' in reference to God’s Knowledge (with the point of emphasis on the problem of God’s Knowledge of the particulars and Divine Providence, breaks down the problem of evil and the Rambam’s approach to it, and provides a summary of his attitude towards prophecy as well as what it means that Moses spoke to God "face to face."
Episode 19: Shannon Nuszen "Striving for Truth"
Shannon tells the story of her life growing up as the daughter of a pastor (now a Noahide). She was raised as a missionary, part of a community that mimicked Jewish traditions and symbols in order to blur the lines in order to make conversion to Christianity more palatable for Jewish targets. Her story is about having the courage to live according to truth, that which goes against everything she was taught. Find out what her advice is to others who are in a similar situation, managing family dyn
Episode 18: Rabbi Alex Israel "Kings & Prophets"
Rabbi Israel discusses the distinctions between the Book of Kings and the Book of Chronicles, and what our approach should be towards understanding these seemingly contradictory accounts. Find out how these factors into the story of Rehoboam. In the opening chapter of Kings, he offers two approaches for understanding the Avishag story. Discover the perplexities in the opening narrative of Kings, the two approaches the Rabbi utilizes to make better sense of all the details and peculiarities of th
Episode 17: Dr. Jonathan Sarna "The American Jewish Experience"
Dr. Sarna discusses the American Jewish Experience, the impact the Torah had on the Founding Fathers of America, the sanitization of slavery, Ulysses S. Grant's complicated relationship with the Jews, the remarkable connection between the Jews and Abraham Lincoln, and the legacy of his father, the great scholar, Dr. Nahum Sarna a'h.
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Episode 16: Rabbi Joshua Maroof "Judaism vs. Spinoza & Atheism"
In the recently published book 'Strauss, Spinoza, & Sinai' (Kodesh Press), it is said that both the Enlightenment and Orthodoxy rest on axioms that neither side can fully prove or fully refute (as Leo Strauss presented). Much of modern thought tries to square the circle of how to live in a world without belief. The better question is whether it is possible to recover authentic religious belief in the modern world.
Rabbi Joshua Maroof puts forth a riveting "Maimonidean" response to Spinoza and
Episode 15: Hakham Mordehai Ish Yemini "Foundational Principles"
Hakham Mordehai provides a brave and unsafe space to explore the legacy, ideology, and principles of the Torah according to Maimonides. He makes an impassioned plea for the return to classical Judaism, explains the difference between pure Monotheism (Divine Transcendence) and Panentheism (Transcendence + Immanence), and how the latter shares similarities to paganism. He asserts that there's an irreconcilable difference between the Maimonidean and Kabbalistic (Franco-German & Lurianic) worldviews
Episode 14: Nachliel Selavan, The Museum Guy "Virtually Exploring Exodus"
Nachliel "The Museum Guy" takes us on a virtual exploration of Ancient Egypt (via Google Earth) and provides us with new perspectives on the Biblical accounts in light of these discoveries. What does the Torah mean when it says Pharaoh has a "heavy" heart? What polemical devices does the Torah utilize to defeat the pagan gods of Egypt? Find out why "absence of evidence is not evidence of absence" is not a strong enough argument, how there are many other methods to proving the Exodus actually occ
Episode 13: Mentalist Mark Edward "Exposing the Charlatans"
Mr. Edward reveals secrets of the trade and takes us on a journey through the world of illusion. Although he is agnostic, he is doing God's work. We share our different views on faith but there is quite a lot of common ground. In this episode, the Mentalist reveals what differentiates mentalists, magicians, and clairvoyants. He tells stories of his friend, the late great skeptic and magician James Randi (The Amazing Randi), who dedicated his life to exposing fraudsters, whether it be Faith Heale
Episode 12: Reuben Ebrahimoff "My Crypto-Jewish Heritage"
This particular episode is more personal for the hosts of the podcast, as Mr. Ebrahimoff speaks to Ben about their shared roots as descendants of Iranian crypto-Jews. He gives a brief overview of the Mashhadi story then and now, the Allahdad pogrom of 1839, the uniqueness of Persian cuisine, the dual marriage contracts of Jewish "New Muslims", the aftermath of leaving Iran, and his personal family tree.
Episode 11: Rabbi Shmuel Phillips "Judaism Reclaimed"
Rabbi Phillips provides an in-depth analysis of Judaism's most complex concepts such as Resurrection of the Dead, the Afterlife, Esotericism, the pursuit of human perfection, Rabbinic innovation, and the concept of Sacred Space. He takes issue with some of the bold claims made by Rabbi Dr. Marc Shapiro and Rabbi Binyamin Lau, which have major religious implications. Find out more about the book at www.JudaismReclaimed.com and buy it on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1946351784/ref=cm_sw_
Episode 10: Professor Henry Abramson "Unmasking History"
Dr. Abramson brilliantly breaks down how historians process data to determine what sources are reliable, the respective approaches of historians and archaeologists in interpretating events, the difference between biblical minimalists and maximalists, what shaped Judaism after its continuous encounters with outside cultures (namely Greek and Zoroastrian), and some fascinating anecdotes about Queen Esther in the story of Purim.
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Episode 9: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Stories of Our Sages"
Dr. Rubenstein explains the difference between midrash and aggadah, the methodology in deciphering aggadot, how to go about navigating through the different versions of aggadot (specifically between Talmud Bavli and Yerushalmi), the relationship between aggadot and the modern reader, how to understand these fantastical stories about our Sages of blessed memory, and he takes us on a journey into his incredible book 'The Land of Truth: Talmud Tales, Timeless Teachings'.
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Episode 8: Rabbi Tovia Singer "Why Jews Reject Jesus"
Rabbi Singer (www.outreachjudaism.org) presents an eye-opening historical account of Jesus, and discusses how Paul of Tarsus invented antisemitism, why the Jews rejected Jesus, how the gospels paganized Judaism to form a new religion, what exactly Isaiah 53 actually proves, and more.
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Episode 7: Rabbi Abe H. Faur "The Horizontal Society"
Rabbi Faur addresses a variety of pertinent topics such as the importance of understanding diqduq (Hebrew grammar) when interpreting Torah verses, the general idea of classical mysticism, the prophetic experience, the Horizontal Society, the covenant, the fall of western civilization, eradicating idolatry, and dispelling the lazy fallacy that Maimonides was a rationalist (and the lie that he kept some of his true beliefs hidden).
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Episode 6: Sina Kahen "Tradition and Ideas"
Sina takes us on a journey through history and breaks down the very significant revival of the Andalusian tradition. Discover the difference between classical Jewish mysticism and the Zoharic Kabbalah that emerged in the post-Maimonidean era. Find out why the Sephardic approach is so instrumental in building a future for Judaism in an ever-changing world.
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Episode 5: Dr. Gerald Schroeder "The Science of God"
Dr. Schroeder makes the case for God in scientific terms, tackling issues such as the age of the universe, evolution, the multiverse theory, fine tuning, DNA, famous atheists, and extraterrestrial life.
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Episode 4: Rabbi Dr. Elie Abadie "A Light Unto the Nations"
Rabbi Abadie dives into the history and traditions of Old Sepharad (The Golden Age of Spain) and discusses his groundbreaking role in strengthening Jewish-Muslim relations in the Middle East.
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Episode 3: Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman "A Critique of Biblical Criticism"
Professor Berman showcases his vast knowledge of the Torah and other extra-biblical ancient texts, providing evidence that highlights the major flaws in modern biblical source criticism. (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.)
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Episode 2: Professor Kenneth Seeskin "A Religion of Reason"
Professor Seeskin displays his vast expertise in the subject of Maimonidean Rationalism. He educates us on important topics such as negative theology, creation, prophecy, commandments, idolatry, love of God, and human suffering (in the Book of Job)
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Episode 1: Rabbi Joshua Maroof "Challenging the Status Quo"
Rabbi Maroof delves into hot topics in Orthodox Judaism, such as: Is God the Cause of Evil? How to Improve Torah Education for Children (and How it Relates to Magical Thinking)? Why are the Most Brilliant Jews Non-Observant? Is There a Solution to the Agunah (Chained Wife) Crisis? All this and more...enjoy the show!
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Introducing Judaism Demystified: A Podcast for Todays Perplexed Jews
How does a curious, truth-seeking, intellectually honest person face the challenges brought upon by modern biblical criticism, the fossil record, archaeological findings, evolutionary theory, scientific discoveries, historical inaccuracies, theological and philosophical paradoxes, the centuries old conflict between rationalism and mysticism, and a host of other problems. Where can one turn for answers? We hope to tackle this daunting task.
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JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Confronting the Challenges of This Generation (Trailer)
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