Shows
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 133: Rabbi Chaim Eisen "Why the Torah's Theology Needs to Make Sense"One of our most frequently requested guests, Rabbi Chaim Eisen, returns for a wide-ranging conversation on the broader tradition of Ḥazal and the Rishonim, as illuminated through Maimonides’ cosmological framework. While the Rambam’s understanding of providence, revelation, and miracles was articulated through the science of his time, his goal was never to innovate a lone philosophy, but to express the timeless truths of the Torah’s sages in the intellectual language of his era. Many assume that if the physics is outdated, the metaphysics must be too—but that assumption reflects a deep misunderstanding of how firmly Maimonides stood with...
2025-10-301h 18
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 132: Rabbi Shnayor Burton "Rambam on Mashiach & Redemption"In this episode we sit down with Rabbi Shnayor Burton to explore Rambam’s view of Mashiach and Redemption. On the surface, the final chapters of Mishneh Torah read like a simple account of the messianic age, but a closer look opens far deeper questions: what truly changes in redemption, how maaseh bereshit and maaseh merkava should be studied, whether kingship can be redeemed from its past failures, and what halakha ultimately trains us toward. Hovering in the background is a parable of Rabbi Akiva—one that never fully discloses its nimshal, yet holds the key to humility and daat...
2025-09-181h 19
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 131: Adam Scott Bellos "The Future of Jewish Advocacy"Why is Jewish leadership failing the very people it claims to serve? In this unfiltered conversation, Adam Scott Bellos—founder, builder, unapologetic strategist—sits down with Jewish Demystified to torch the polite myths and diagnose the rot: the widening gap between institutions and everyday Jews, the addiction to gala dinners, and the influencer economy that treats advocacy like a clout market. We go head-on at the money—how treating “influence” as a commodity leaves Jews permanently outgunned by state-backed players like Qatar—and we ask what a post-glitz model of Jewish power actually looks like. Bellos makes the case for Hebraiza...
2025-09-1254 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 130: Jacob Falach, Producer "The New Reality for American Jews"Jacob Falach, writer and producer at The Daily Wire, joins us for a timely and candid conversation about what it means to be a committed Jew and Zionist in today’s political and cultural climate. We start with his background—his connection to Torah, his role at The Daily Wire, and what it's like to operate as an observant Jew in a largely Christian and secular conservative media space. We revisit his 2023 article, “Four Pervasive Myths About Israel—and Why They’re Wrong,” and ask how his thinking has evolved in light of the post-October 7 shift, where criticism of Israel has g...
2025-09-0556 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 129: Rabbi Yamin Levy "The Mystic Behind the Philosopher"Rabbi Yamin Levy returns for his second appearance on Judaism Demystified to delve into his new book, Jewish Mysticism: Essays on Maimonides’ The Guide of the Perplexed. This wide-ranging conversation explores the Rambam’s bold and often misunderstood ideas about God, Torah, and human purpose. We discuss the tension between halakha and the pursuit of higher consciousness, asking how Maimonides balances personal spiritual striving with the collective demands of Jewish law. Rabbi Levy also examines Maimonides’ deeply personal reading of Sefer Iyov, showing how the Rambam’s own suffering shaped his understanding of human resilience and his striking statement that, wi...
2025-08-2854 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 128: Dr. Tanya White "The Legacy of Rabbi Sacks"In this thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation, we sit down with Tanya White—educator, lecturer, and creator of the Books & Beyond podcast series—to discuss the enduring legacy of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and how his ideas continue to shape Jewish thought today. Tanya shares the inspiration behind the podcast and the personal and intellectual journey that led her to focus on four of Rabbi Sacks’s most influential books: To Heal a Fractured World, Future Tense, The Dignity of Difference, and Not in God’s Name. She offers insight into her process selecting guests—leading thinkers, scholars, and educators who engage...
2025-08-2047 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 127: Dr. Berel Dov Lerner "Human-Divine Interactions"We sit down with Professor Berel Dov Lerner, finalist for the Rabbi Sacks Book Prize, to explore his phenomenal book Human–Divine Interactions in the Hebrew Scriptures: Covenants and Cross-Purposes. With a background in philosophy, Prof. Lerner examines how God’s project—creating a worthy world—intersects with humanity’s project of making life in this world more livable. How do divine and human interests become intertwined? How does God take human concerns into account? And how do we, in turn, project our own moral frameworks onto God, expecting to relate to Him on our terms? Our conversation ranges widely: fr...
2025-08-121h 05
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 126: Rabbi Chaim Eisen "Providence According to Rambam & Ramban" (Live)For our first-ever live Judaism Demystified podcast shiur, we’re honored to welcome back Rabbi Chaim Eisen — visiting from Israel for his third appearance on the show. In front of a packed audience, Rabbi Eisen takes us on a riveting journey into one of the most profound and misunderstood topics in Jewish thought: Are the miracles of the Exodus (and other miracles) an extension of nature — or its negation? This shiur explores the complex interplay between miracles and nature, the boundaries between the natural and the supernatural, and the deeper theological implications of Hashgakha Pratit (individual Divine providence) and Hashga...
2025-08-051h 36
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 125: Dr. Ruth Calderon "The Enduring Power of Jewish Text"Dr. Ruth Calderon joins the podcast to reflect on the personal and intellectual journey behind her book, A Bride for One Night. She begins by discussing her background and the role her parents played in nurturing her love of Torah, as mentioned in the book’s dedication. She then unpacks her approach to the Talmud, describing how she reads aggadic texts not through a religious, academic, or educational lens, but as stories that have the power to move us. This perspective shaped her call for integrating the Talmud into Israeli culture and education, regardless of religious ideology, because these te...
2025-06-2958 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 124: Rabbi Dr. Yohai Makbili "Lost in Transmission"In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Dr. Yohai Makbili—a true modern Renaissance man. With a background in engineering and groundbreaking work translating and elucidating the writings of the Rambam, Rabbi Makbili brings a rare combination of analytical precision and deep Torah scholarship. His influential Hebrew translations of Maimonides' Guide for the Perplexed and other philosophical works have reshaped contemporary access to the Rambam’s thought. We explore key questions raised in his recent lecture, now presented in English for the first time. Rabbi Makbili shares how individuals can navigate the multiplicity of halakhic opinions, and why the...
2025-06-081h 03
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 123: Olivia Friedman, Author "How Accurate is House of David?"In this episode, we’re joined by writer, podcaster, and Judaic Studies teacher at Jewish Leadership Academy in Miami, Olivia Friedman for a deep-dive review of the hit Amazon Prime series House of David. Going character by character, we explore what the show gets right—and where it diverges—from the biblical narrative, paying close attention to the scriptural peshat, Midrash, and Talmudic interpretations. We examine how key figures like David, Saul, Michal, Samuel, Doeg, and the Witch of Endor are portrayed, and where those portrayals align with or stray from the text. Olivia helps unpack why certain liberties were l...
2025-05-201h 21
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 122: Dr. Malka Simkovich "Discovering Second Temple Literature"In her highly anticipated return to the podcast, Dr. Malka Simkovich takes us on a journey through the rich and complex world of Second Temple Judaism, drawing from her acclaimed book Discovering Second Temple Literature. We begin with the extraordinary discoveries of the Cairo Genizah and the Dead Sea Scrolls, and explore why these moments of preservation are so central to understanding the period. We then unpack the deep identity tensions faced by the Jewish people—especially in communities like Alexandria—as they navigated dual roles as both imperial citizens and members of a semi-sovereign Judea. Dr. Simkovich clarifies the...
2025-05-121h 10
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 121: Gila Fine "The Madwoman in the Rabbi's Attic"How are women really portrayed in the Talmud—and what happens when we look beyond the surface? In this episode, we speak with Gila Fine about her groundbreaking book, The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic, where she takes us deep into the stories of the six named heroines of the Talmud: Yalta the shrew, Homa the femme fatale, Marta the prima donna, Heruta the madonna/whore, Beruria the overreachrix, and Ima Shalom the angel in the house. As their labels suggest, each woman seems to embody an antifeminist stereotype—but Gila shows that with a careful, layered reading, there’...
2025-04-281h 11
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 120: Dr. Yael Ziegler "Making Sense of Midrash"In this episode, Dr. Yael Ziegler shares her thoughtful and layered approach to the study of Tanakh. Known for her deep literary readings and her commitment to both peshat and the broader interpretive tradition, she explains how elements like structure, repetition, and intertextuality shape her analysis of the biblical text. We explore her perspective on Midrash—not as a rewriting of the narrative, but as a sophisticated form of interpretation. Hazal, she explains, were keen readers of both peshat and derash, and even midrashim that appear far from the plain meaning often reflect a deep sensitivity to language, themes, an...
2025-04-081h 03
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 119: Rabbi Menachem Leibtag "The Case for the Gush Tanakh Method"In this episode, we’re joined by Rabbi Menachem Leibtag, a leading educator in the Gush (Yeshivat Har Etzion) Tanakh methodology—a literary-contextual approach to the study of Tanakh that emphasizes peshat, structure, and thematic development, while reading the text in its historical and narrative context. Rabbi Leibtag lays out the foundations of this method and responds to some of the critiques raised in our previous conversations with J.J. Kimche and Rabbi Yaakov Beasley. We explore concerns that anchoring the Torah in its historical setting may risk weakening its eternal relevance, versus the argument that understanding the text in i...
2025-04-011h 04
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 118: Jessie Fischbein "Infertility in the Bible"In this episode, we sit down with Jessie Fischbein, author of 'Infertility in the Bible: How the Matriarchs Changed Their Fate; How You Can Too.' Jessie’s book stands out for its informal, accessible style and its ability to resonate with readers beyond just Jewish or theistic audiences. We discuss what inspired her to write it and how readers struggling with infertility have responded. We also dive into her rational approach to prayer, addressing a common struggle—why pray if God is unchanging? Jessie clarifies what prayer truly is and how it differs from common misconceptions. Exploring biblical narr...
2025-03-2058 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 117: Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel "Getting to Know Rashi"As our 'Getting to Know the Rishonim' series continues, we explore the towering figure of Rashi with Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel, one of the foremost scholars of medieval Jewish thought. French Jewry produced a remarkable corpus of Torah commentators—from Rashi to Rashbam, Bechor Shor, Rav Yosef Kara, and Hizkuni. What makes this school of biblical interpretation unique, and is there a common thread in their methodologies? We also examine the process by which Rashi’s Torah commentary achieved a near-canonical status—how early did this happen, and why? One of the most debated aspects of Rashi’s legacy is his r...
2025-03-131h 35
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 explores how his philosophy shapes modern Jewish thought. We discuss the evolution of New Atheism, from Christopher Hitchens to Alex O’Connor, and what this shift means fo...
2025-02-2148 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 leadership but demands leadership at every turn, a truth that often goes unnoticed. Dr...
2025-02-1052 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 in Genesis and explains how it informs the patriarchal narratives. He also shares how he balances critical analysis with reverence for the text, naviga...
2025-02-031h 26
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 between architecture and Torah study. Together, we dive into key chapters, including a fresh look at the burning bush through an architectural lens...
2025-01-2650 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 explores how Orthodox communities can foster a more supportive and inclusive environment for those questioning their faith or lifestyle. We discuss the role of education in addressing doubts and encouraging...
2025-01-1742 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Mashiach to be the natural consequence of mitzvot and the proof required to recognize him. Is Mashiach...
2025-01-101h 41
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 hopes his character will have on young male readers. As a self-proclaimed "purist," Channah reveals...
2024-12-2447 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 to a wider audience. We dive into Rav Hirsch’s unique approach to aggadic literature and midrash, his masterful engage...
2024-12-151h 02
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ thought-provoking perspectives in The Dignity of Difference. We also tackle the controversy surrounding Rabbi Sacks’ view of "ger"...
2024-12-011h 21
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 father, Hakham Yosef Faur a'h, and his seminal book Horizontal Society. Rabbi Faur explains the essence of the Horizontal Society concept...
2024-11-241h 17
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Jewish people, the unique influence of the Land of Israel on our spiritual lives, and how Jewish values have been historically twisted to fuel a...
2024-11-1455 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 different paths. Rabbi Soloveitchik’s impact endures strongly in Modern Orthodoxy, while Rabbi Berkovits remains relatively overlooked, though his philosophy offers urgent relevance today. Curwin guides...
2024-10-311h 02
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 within its pagan surroundings. Dr. Copan shares his approach to interpreting morally challenging passages, applying a “charitability and Golden Rule” perspective that u...
2024-10-141h 26
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 grappling with belief in the modern era, without shying away from the intellectual rigor such topics require. He engages directly with scientific perspectives and...
2024-10-061h 19
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 conversation continues with an exploration of "Repentance and Suffering," as Rabbi Pruzansky unpacks the crucial lessons he hopes readers will grasp about...
2024-09-251h 06
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 explore how we should understand prophecies that seem to have gone unfulfilled. Rabbi Beasley identifies three key reasons why modern reader...
2024-09-192h 12
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 military service, a major point of friction between the Haredi community and the state of Israel. Despite some Haredim volunteering...
2024-09-121h 21
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 halakhic codes, particularly in its detailed guidance on practices like observing Passover with a paschal lamb and instructions for when it is not available. Rabbi...
2024-09-051h 10
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 their communities. We also learn about Rav Yehuda Amital, a towering figure in Rabbi Taragin’s life, whose influence is fe...
2024-08-1637 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 also discuss the challenges of navigating the comedy scene while staying true to his...
2024-08-0458 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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-tiered Halakhic system as described by Rambam. Rabbi Phillips provides insights into his innovative interpretation of Taamei HaMitzvot (Reasons for the Commandments) in...
2024-07-211h 23
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 structure Crescas employs and how it serves the development of his philosophical arguments, contrasting it with the structures used by other medieval philosophers li...
2024-07-141h 16
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 subtle interplay between these moments of choice and predetermined paths. The conversation also covers the role of yeshiva education...
2024-05-091h 22
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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, challenging the notion that the universe emerged from God and is inherently united with his own being. Dr. Craig makes a case that aligns with the Maimonidean worldview, showcasing why...
2024-04-1154 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 supposed immortality, his foretold return as a harbinger of the Messiah based on Malakhi, and his intriguing ability to shape-shift, which influenced rabbinical teachings and stories. Dr. M...
2024-03-272h 01
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Campbell share their personal journeys of discovering Ralbag's work, with Rabbi Campbell delving into Ralbag's scientific and philosophical achievements, and Rabbi Schneeweiss focusing on the...
2024-03-201h 45
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 era. We discuss how the discovery of the scrolls in the mid-20th century transformed our understanding of Jewish history and Second Temple Judaism. He shares what got...
2024-03-151h 15
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 from its medieval philosophical context and the contradictions and ambiguities Maimonides himself noted. Dr. Goodman shares his method for navigating these issues in his...
2024-03-042h 11
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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, syntax, literary style, chiastic structures, intertextuality, and historical context. The Gush promotes critical thinking and i...
2024-02-231h 27
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Sages is crucial, particularly in the face of scrutiny from academia, atheists, and other skeptics. Reflecting on his personal journey to Torah observance, Rabbi Berdugo sheds light on the challenges confr...
2024-02-161h 05
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 advocated by the first generation and draws intriguing and surprising parallels with Modern Orthodox and Hareidi practices today. Discover the development and distinctions of the seco...
2024-02-081h 15
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 deserve a closer look, such as "The Sages vs Science: The Sun’s Path at Night," "Wrestling with Demons," "Ayin Hara: Ocular Radiation or Heavenly ac...
2024-02-0154 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 embedded within the various cultural settings of these Aggadic stories. The episodes ponder the contemporary relevance of Aḥer, questioning what insights can be drawn from his enigmatic journey into "...
2024-01-261h 21
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 within the various cultural settings of these Aggadic stories. The episodes ponder the contemporary relevance of Aḥer, questioning what insights can be drawn from his enigmatic journey into "Pardes...
2024-01-191h 30
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 within the various cultural settings of these Aggadic stories. The episodes ponder the contemporary relevance of Aḥer, questioning what insights can be drawn from his enigmatic journey into "Pardes" to his...
2024-01-091h 24
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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, offering invaluable tools for deepening emotional and physical bonds. Whether you're single, dating, engaged, married, or simply interested in learning how to navigate the intricacies of human connections, this conversation provides insights that...
2023-08-3158 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 problem with addiction and who is responsible for getting an addict the help they need. The conversation...
2023-05-0431 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Plato’s Apology, Euthyphro, and tractate Ta'anit to uncover the tensions between reason and faith present in both Socrates an...
2023-02-101h 41
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 inspiration, the late Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt'l. With a focus on hope and mutual respect, we discuss if there can be a resolution to the...
2023-02-0557 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 largely Haredi or Haredi-lite, and acknowledges that it may...
2023-02-031h 16
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 how this particular fact about Judaism shaped who he is, why he returned to...
2023-01-3049 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 lessons. He gives some incredible textual examples of how to "crack the code" of what Midrash is and how it is to be un...
2023-01-262h 46
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 larger context of Rambam’s conception of Jewish ideals. Another important topic is Holiness, which has become a buzzword in Judaism today. We use this word loosely and without much...
2023-01-171h 31
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 particular historical phenomenon: 20th Century Jewish-American Mobsters. His fascination with Jews in the mafia...
2023-01-1346 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 to great lengths in order to destroy the spiritual disease of idolatry, of which Maimonides says the entire...
2023-01-111h 16
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Kabbalists" (the Zohar) was a modern composition. He also writes that the name "Hochmat HaKabbalah" (the wisdom of...
2023-01-0244 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 compelled him to connect to and work for holocaust survivors in Germany, convert to Judaism, make al...
2022-12-231h 36
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Arabs are semites too" or "Jew hatred isn't accurate since we are not...
2022-12-161h 10
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 dishonest, which he refers to in his book 'Gematria Refigured' as "patchwork" or "almost the same" gematrias...
2022-11-301h 41
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 literature, over the course of history it has become widely accepted as authoritative (but usually not in the realm of halakha). Hakham...
2022-11-241h 14
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 the Christian influence on it. Chazal were no strangers to using the dead in their didactic...
2022-11-211h 38
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2022-11-1847 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 taught that this is not Man's book about God, but rather God's book about Man. The description of Gan...
2022-10-281h 18
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.'
2022-10-072h 13
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 and Rabbis. How did they all fall for this, considering that he was openly breaking Halakha, including his even...
2022-09-022h 11
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 to a Judaism that will one day be able to unify these fractures? And what has been the Sepharadi approach that has allowed it to stay relatively uninfluenced...
2022-08-161h 03
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 about the Ethics of Stoicism and the great Stoics.
2022-08-101h 29
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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. In light of the recent Roe v Wade ruling, Jews from both sides of the political aisle seem to...
2022-08-031h 13
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Chazal understand quantum mechanics? And what are the seven "days" of Ma'aseh Bereshit talking about?
2022-07-291h 33
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 "Daas Torah" rejection of metaphoric readings of certain parts in the Torah (e.g. Rambam, Sforno, Radaq, and Ralbag...
2022-07-141h 00
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Ishbitz Hassidut. Antinomianism is a very dangerous and paradoxical doctrine which seems to go against the most intuitive notions of...
2022-07-0447 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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."
2022-06-202h 07
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 dynamics and all. Discover what made her turn to Judaism and abandon...
2022-05-231h 25
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 these chapters. Additionally, the initial positive assessment of King Solomon in chapters 3, 4, and 5 make it hard to process his eventual descent into...
2022-05-091h 23
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2022-04-2558 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 makes a brilliant case for the future of Judaism in the modern age. It's only fitting that a...
2022-04-131h 39
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 and explains how Kabbalah changed the face of Judaism forever. His podcast “Fostat” (available on Spotify and Apple) - as well as his YouTube Channel “Guerrilla Judaism” - provides a brave and unsafe space to...
2022-04-081h 09
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 occurred, and more fascinating ideas to discuss at the Passover Seder. (It's ideal to...
2022-04-011h 15
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 Healers, Mediums, or Psychics. Two famous examples that come to mind are Peter Popoff and Uri Geller...
2022-03-251h 30
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2022-03-141h 05
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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_r_awdo_HJK1PR7QEF3WWCAXCWZ1
2022-03-101h 39
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2022-02-2446 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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'.
2022-01-201h 34
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2022-01-051h 21
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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).
2021-12-231h 14
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2021-11-261h 21
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2021-11-181h 26
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.
2021-08-201h 06
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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.)
2021-07-151h 22
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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)
2021-06-301h 35
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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!
2021-06-221h 25
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionIntroducing Judaism Demystified: A Podcast for Todays Perplexed JewsHow 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.
2021-06-1305 min
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionJUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and Tradition (Trailer)
2021-06-1200 min