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Rabbi David Fohrman

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Tehillim Unveiled
Tehillim UnveiledReturn of the Hostages w/ R’ David Fohrman (Rebroadcast)"When God returned the captives of Zion we were like dreamers." It truly feels like a dream. Nearly a year ago, I recorded an episode with my teacher, Rabbi David Fohrman, reflecting on this very chapter. At the time, none of us knew when this day would come. Now that it’s here, his insights feel even more resonant.I’m re-releasing that conversation today because it’s been deeply meaningful for me in processing the magnitude of this moment, and I hope it will be for you as well.
2025-10-1358 minA Book Like No Other - The Exclusive Feed
A Book Like No Other - The Exclusive Feed[Exclusive] S6. Ep.1: The Secret Message in the Sound of the ShofarYou sit in shul. The shofar blows. What do you feel? You may not want to admit it, but for many of us the answer is: nothing. For a long time, that’s how Imu felt also. Until a chance observation, one historic Erev Rosh Hashana, sparked a conversation with Rabbi David Fohrman that would change everything. Come along on this deep dive through the Torah, revealing a hidden story from the Burning Bush to Mount Sinai to the walls of Jericho—that will finally make the shofar blast truly meaningful. In this first episode of the...
2025-08-2622 minA Book Like No Other
A Book Like No OtherS6 Ep. 1: The Secret Message in the Sound of the ShofarYou sit in shul. The shofar blows. What do you feel? You may not want to admit it, but for many of us the answer is: nothing. For a long time, that’s how Imu felt also. Until a chance observation, one historic Erev Rosh Hashana, sparked a conversation with Rabbi David Fohrman that would change everything. Come along on this deep dive through the Torah, revealing a hidden story from the Burning Bush to Mount Sinai to the walls of Jericho—that will finally make the shofar blast truly meaningful. In this first episode of the...
2025-08-2625 minMatan: One on One Parsha Podcast
Matan: One on One Parsha PodcastEpisode 208 - Parshat Vayakel: The Wonders of Human CreationThis week's conversation with R. David Fohrman, beloved Tanakh teacher and principal educator at Aleph Beta, was a joy. We begin by thinking about the connection between Betzalel and the world's creation. We ponder the wonders of AI and the relationship between the womb and God's contraction (tzimtzum), and then flesh out the fascinating textual and essential relationship between Betzalel and Yosef. Enjoy this magical Biblical tour with a true Tanakh giant. The series asks what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our...
2025-03-171h 00Jewish Insights with Justin Pines
Jewish Insights with Justin PinesThe Hidden Story of Purim - Rabbi David Fohrman - Jewish Insights with Justin PinesRabbi David Fohrman, Founder and Lead Scholar at Aleph Beta, one of the most innovative interpreters of Tanach (the Jewish biblical canon), and author of The Queen You Thought You Knew: Unmasking Esther’s Hidden Story, joins Justin to reveal a new understanding of the Purim story and how it sheds light on the Torah more broadly.
2025-03-1258 minA Book Like No Other
A Book Like No OtherS3 Ep. 1 The Hidden Angels in the MegillahNote for Premium Members: This episode is part of our free release of "A Book Like No Other." If you're a premium subscriber, you already have access to this content in your premium feed.The Book of Esther has no Divine instructions, no prophecies, no outright miracles. God doesn't even get mentioned. We all love hearing how Mordechai and Esther saved their people in a time of crisis – but does this story have any moral message for us? As we're listening to the Megillah on Purim, what can we learn about coming close to God in our ev...
2025-02-1134 minMeaningful Judaism
Meaningful JudaismThe Hidden Angels in the Megillah | A Book Like No Other: Full Season Release, Just in Time for PurimNote for Premium Members: This episode is part of our free release of "A Book Like No Other." If you're a premium subscriber, you already have access to this content in your premium feed.The Book of Esther has no Divine instructions, no prophecies, no outright miracles. God doesn't even get mentioned. We all love hearing how Mordechai and Esther saved their people in a time of crisis – but does this story have any moral message for us? As we're listening to the Megillah on Purim, what can we learn about coming close to God in our ev...
2025-02-1131 minTehillim Unveiled
Tehillim UnveiledR’ David Fohrman: Shir Hamaalot and the Captives of Bereishit“Shir Hamaalot B’Shuv H’ Et Shivat Tzion” might be one of the most well known psalms. What does it have to do with this week’s Parsha?Join Ari and our first ever guest, Rabbi David Fohrman, for an eye opening discussion. Rabbi Fohrman’s video on the second half of the chapter: alephbeta.org/playlist/shir-hamaalot-planting-with-tears-israelPlease consider supporting us at ⁠tehillimunveiled.com/support⁠.We want to hear from YOU at ⁠TehillimUnveiled@gmail.com⁠.
2025-01-0156 minInto the Verse - Exclusive Podcast
Into the Verse - Exclusive PodcastS3 - Lech Lecha: Responding to Life’s ChallengesWhen life throws us challenges and doesn’t go the way we hoped, how do we avoid falling into despair? In Parshat Lech Lecha, Abraham and Sarah struggle with infertility, and Abraham cries out to God, “I am childless!” What is the Torah’s message to Abraham on how to persevere through life’s trials and tribulations?Join Rabbi David Fohrman and Ari Levisohn as they explore Abraham and Sarah’s journey through difficult times and the Torah’s encouraging guidance. Listen to Rabbi Fohrman’s foundational course, Abraham’s Journey, to dive deeper into the idea...
2024-11-2636 minInto the Verse - Exclusive Podcast
Into the Verse - Exclusive PodcastS2 Ep 8 - Vayigash: Jacob's Separation AnxietyParshat Vayigash opens at a very tense moment. Joseph’s brothers are standing in front of him, not knowing who he is. All they know is that this powerful Egyptian official has threatened to keep Benjamin in Egypt as his slave. So Judah steps forward to plead for returning Benjamin to their father… and Joseph bursts into tears and reveals his identity to them. The long separation from his family is finally over. But have you ever wondered how things got so bad in the first place? Why Jacob favored Joseph and Benjamin so much that his other sons were...
2024-11-1530 minInto the Verse - Exclusive Podcast
Into the Verse - Exclusive PodcastS2 Ep 13 - Beshalach: What Is Belief In God?Parshat Beshalach tells the story of the end of the Exodus and the crossing of the Red Sea. And after all of that, we get three short stories of stops that the Israelites took while journeying from the Red Sea to the Sinai desert, each one involving some kind of food or water crisis that leads the Israelites to complain. It seems pretty clear that these stories are connected, but what are we supposed to take from them?Rabbi David Fohrman, along with Imu Shalev, took a look at these three stories and noticed a word that...
2024-11-1528 minInto the Verse - Exclusive Podcast
Into the Verse - Exclusive PodcastS2 Ep 15 - Mishpatim: Does Justice Care About Our Intentions?Parshat Mishpatim tells us what should happen if people get hurt because of someone else's actions – fighting, stealing, keeping dangerous animals around the house. In each case, the Torah explains what should happen to the offender, but what's interesting is that the same injury doesn’t always carry the same penalty. Sometimes it depends on the person's intentions: Were they actually planning to cause the harm or not?In this week's episode, Rabbi Fohrman points out that one of those laws in Mishpatim looks like a clue to something he’s wondered about for a long time: a myst...
2024-11-1536 minThe Letter S
The Letter SHow Losing a Parent Led Me to Share Torah’s Wisdom with MillionsIn this enlightening episode of The Letter S Podcast, we are honored to sit down with Rav David Fohrman, internationally renowned lecturer, author, and founder of Aleph Beta. Rav Fohrman shares personal stories, including the early loss of his own father, and how it influenced his spiritual journey. Together, we explore themes of divine guidance, understanding Hashem’s presence in our lives, and finding meaning during challenging times. Rav Fohrman’s wisdom and warmth make this a deeply impactful conversation for listeners of all backgrounds. For more from Rav David Fohrman, explore his work at:  https://www.aleph...
2024-11-1453 minA Book Like No Other
A Book Like No OtherS2 Ep. 1 The Blasphemer: Why Would Someone Curse God? [Full Season Now Available]Rabbi David Fohrman and Imu Shalev study the tale of the blasphemer, a dark and puzzling episode buried deep in Leviticus. The details of this story are scarce: an anonymous man provokes a fight in the Israelite camp, curses God, and ultimately is stoned to death as punishment. But a close read of these few short verses sends Rabbi Fohrman and Imu on a surprising journey, raising provocative moral questions about God’s judgment and uncovering an unlikely connection between the condemned blasphemer and one of the Bible’s greatest heroes.For more information about our upcoming cour...
2024-05-0548 minMeaningful Judaism
Meaningful JudaismThe Hidden Angels in the Megillah [Introducing our new season of A Book Like No Other]The Book of Esther has no Divine instructions, no prophecies, no outright miracles. God doesn’t even get mentioned. We all love hearing how Mordechai and Esther saved their people in a time of crisis – but does this story have any moral message for us? As we’re listening to the Megillah on Purim, what can we learn about coming close to God in our everyday lives?Join Imu Shalev and Rabbi David Fohrman as they dive deeply into Megillat Esther to find an answer to this question. They start off with a very odd set of commen...
2024-03-1133 minA Book Like No Other - The Exclusive Feed
A Book Like No Other - The Exclusive Feed[Exclusive] S3 Ep. 1 The Hidden Angels in the MegillahThe Book of Esther has no Divine instructions, no prophecies, no outright miracles. God doesn’t even get mentioned. We all love hearing how Mordechai and Esther saved their people in a time of crisis – but does this story have any moral message for us? As we’re listening to the Megillah on Purim, what can we learn about coming close to God in our everyday lives?Join Imu Shalev and Rabbi David Fohrman as they dive deeply into Megillat Esther to find an answer to this question. They start off with a very odd set of commen...
2024-03-1031 minInto the Verse - A Parsha Podcast
Into the Verse - A Parsha PodcastThe Blasphemer: Why Would Someone Curse God? [Introducing our new season of A Book Like No Other]Rabbi David Fohrman and Imu Shalev study the tale of the blasphemer, a dark and puzzling episode buried deep in Leviticus. The details of this story are scarce: an anonymous man provokes a fight in the Israelite camp, curses God, and ultimately is stoned to death as punishment. But a close read of these few short verses sends Rabbi Fohrman and Imu on a surprising journey, raising provocative moral questions about God’s judgment and uncovering an unlikely connection between the condemned blasphemer and one of the Bible’s greatest heroes.A Book Like No Other is a pr...
2024-01-2348 minMeaningful Judaism
Meaningful JudaismThe Blasphemer: Why Would Someone Curse God? [Introducing our new season of A Book Like No Other]Rabbi David Fohrman and Imu Shalev study the tale of the blasphemer, a dark and puzzling episode buried deep in Leviticus. The details of this story are scarce: an anonymous man provokes a fight in the Israelite camp, curses God, and ultimately is stoned to death as punishment. But a close read of these few short verses sends Rabbi Fohrman and Imu on a surprising journey, raising provocative moral questions about God’s judgment and uncovering an unlikely connection between the condemned blasphemer and one of the Bible’s greatest heroes.A Book Like No Other is a pr...
2024-01-1546 minA Book Like No Other
A Book Like No OtherThe Blasphemer: Why Would Someone Curse God?Rabbi David Fohrman and Imu Shalev study the tale of the blasphemer, a dark and puzzling episode buried deep in Leviticus. The details of this story are scarce: an anonymous man provokes a fight in the Israelite camp, curses God, and ultimately is stoned to death as punishment. But a close read of these few short verses sends Rabbi Fohrman and Imu on a surprising journey, raising provocative moral questions about God’s judgment and uncovering an unlikely connection between the condemned blasphemer and one of the Bible’s greatest heroes. A Book Like No O...
2024-01-1150 minA Book Like No Other - The Exclusive Feed
A Book Like No Other - The Exclusive Feed[Exclusive] S2 Ep. 1 The Blasphemer: Why Would Someone Curse God?Rabbi David Fohrman and Imu Shalev study the tale of the blasphemer, a dark and puzzling episode buried deep in Leviticus. The details of this story are scarce: an anonymous man provokes a fight in the Israelite camp, curses God, and ultimately is stoned to death as punishment. But a close read of these few short verses sends Rabbi Fohrman and Imu on a surprising journey, raising provocative moral questions about God’s judgment and uncovering an unlikely connection between the condemned blasphemer and one of the Bible’s greatest heroes. We love to hear from you! Click...
2024-01-0846 minTurning the Gem
Turning the GemGenesis 6: The Flood - How do we deal with evil?In todays episode we discuss another of the famous stories in Genesis: The Flood. This story, a favorite of our children's books, is one of the most challenging stories when considering the amount of death described. We dive into the details of this challenging story to look for the beauty among the ugliness and ask the big question: how do we deal with suffering and evil? The Beast that Crouches at the Door - Rabbi David Fohrman Genesis: A Parsha Companion - Rabbi David Fohrman (Video) Bible Project - Day of the Lord
2023-11-251h 33Turning the Gem
Turning the GemGenesis 4: Cain and Abel - There is MoreThis episode, we discuss the famous story of Cain and Abel. We use this story as a lens to look into the character of God and the shortcomings of humans. The Beast that Crouches at the Door - Rabbi David Fohrman Genesis: A Parsha Companion - Rabbi David Fohrman
2023-11-181h 09Turning the Gem
Turning the GemGenesis 2: Adam and Eve - The HumanIn today's episode, we discuss the second creation story of the Bible. We contrast this more focused narrative with it's expansive predecessor and dive into the human, the man, and the woman.  The Beast That Crouches at the Door - Rabbi David Fohrman Genesis: A Parsha Companion - Rabbi David Fohrman The New Humanity - Bible Project Your 2 Basic Choices for Being Huuman - Bible Project Knowing When to Say "Enough" - Bema Text in Us - Genesis 2
2023-11-041h 50Turning the Gem
Turning the GemIntroduction to Turning the GemIn today's episode, we give the breakdown of who we are and what this podcast is. We discuss the goals of this project and who it's for.    Here are resources we consistently reference: Bible Project - https://bibleproject.com/ Bema: https://www.bemadiscipleship.com/ Rabbi David Fohrman: https://shop.alephbeta.org/collections/books-by-rabbi-fohrman
2023-10-2829 minInto the Verse - A Parsha Podcast
Into the Verse - A Parsha PodcastLech Lecha: Responding to Life’s ChallengesWhen life throws us challenges and doesn’t go the way we hoped, how do we avoid falling into despair? In Parshat Lech Lecha, Abraham and Sarah struggle with infertility, and Abraham cries out to God, “I am childless!” What is the Torah’s message to Abraham on how to persevere through life’s trials and tribulations?Join Rabbi David Fohrman and Ari Levisohn as they explore Abraham and Sarah’s journey through difficult times and the Torah’s encouraging guidance. Listen to Rabbi Fohrman’s foundational course, Abraham’s Journey, to dive deeper into the ide...
2023-10-2437 minLove and Context
Love and ContextWho are you going to be?Today we will be discussing the story of Balaam and Balak. They connect with other figures in the Torah and as they consider who they will be, we also consider who we, as modern followers of Jesus, will be.Suggested ResourcesThe BibleNumbers Chapter 22-25The Bible ProjectNumbers overview episodewww.bibleproject.comRabbi David Fohrmanwww.alephbeta.orgDavid PlattBook - "Radical"Bema Podcast with Marty Solomonhttps://www.bemadiscipleship.com/34
2023-10-2046 minInto the Verse - A Parsha Podcast
Into the Verse - A Parsha PodcastIsrael Under Attack: Rabbi Fohrman and Imu Process the EventsIn place of our usual parsha podcast, Rabbi David Fohrman sat down with Aleph Beta CEO, Imu Shalev, to reflect on the ongoing situation in Israel and discussed creative ways to help in these times of need, as well as how to cope with our intense emotions. To find meaningful content on Parshat Bereishit, check out our website. Please consider supporting organizations in Israel assisting soldiers and families in need. To learn more about Aleph Beta's efforts and to donate please click here.  Subscribe to Aleph Beta to unlock the full sea...
2023-10-1043 minJUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today\'s Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and Tradition
JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today's Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and TraditionEpisode 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 the harsh realities of life, and the transient nature of our existence. By way of intertextual analysis, Curwin proposes Adam...
2023-08-1750 minThe Koren Podcast
The Koren PodcastRabbi David FohrmanWe've been asking our guests to teach us the whole Torah standing on one leg inspired by the story of Hillel and Shammai, but where did Hillel get his now famous answer? Surely Rabbi Akiva's similar maxim makes more sense! Rabbi David Fohrman, the founder of AlephBeta, thinks that Hillel gets his answer from an unexpected, and deeply profound source. Listen now as Rabbi Fohrman teaches the whole Torah standing on one leg - al regel ahat! ______________________________________________________________ Useful Links: Books by Rabbi Fohrman - https://korenpub.com/collections/rabbi-david-fohrman
2023-08-0857 minMeaningful Judaism
Meaningful JudaismWhat’s Meaningful About Keeping Shabbat?What’s meaningful about keeping Shabbat? Lots of things, right? It’s a day of rest, a chance to put down our phones, learn and pray, focus on our family and friends. But Shabbat has its challenging aspects too. Sometimes the restrictions of Shabbat weigh on us and make it hard for us to appreciate how meaningful it is. So how do we hold on to a sense of the beauty of this day? Well, what if we knew that keeping Shabbat actually makes something important, something kind of magical, happen in the world… even when it seems a...
2023-05-2848 minA Book Like No Other
A Book Like No OtherWhat is “Meaningful Judaism”? (Introducing Aleph Beta’s brand-new podcast)Meaningful Judaism is Aleph Beta's latest podcast, dedicated to exploring why we do what we do in Jewish life, by diving deep into the Torah text. So many of our practices can feel like they’re just there; we go through the motions, but they don’t feel especially meaningful. In Meaningful Judaism, we search for that meaning. Each episode will take you on a journey, tackling questions such as “Why can’t we mix milk and meat?” and “What’s the meaning behind the laws of niddah?” Join our host, Imu Shalev, along with Rabbi David Fohrman and Aleph Beta’s oth...
2023-04-3008 minParsha in Motion
Parsha in MotionTezaveh | Ruth ShaneRuth Shane is a native of Baltimore, Maryland. She has a B.A. in biology fromBarnard College and a Master of Forest Science degree from The Yale School of theEnvironment (previously the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Science). Shetaught high school biology for many years at The Fieldston School in Riverdale, NewYork. Ruth returned to Baltimore and joined the Biochemical Genetics Lab of theUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine. She moved across town to the MolecularDiagnostics Lab of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine from which she...
2023-03-101h 07Bible in a Year (The Story) Podcast
Bible in a Year (The Story) PodcastDay 27: A Crown and Thorns on a Threshing FloorToday we read Genesis 49-50, Job 41-42, and Psalms 17. This ends our story of Genesis and Job, but the story of Israel is just beginning. Rabbi Fohrman makes comparisons between the story of Joseph and the story of Esther. He also concludes the story of Genesis with a really cool possibility regarding the dispossessed children of Ham (the Canaanites) and Abraham (Ishmaelites) seeing Joseph (another disposed child) laying his crown on Jacob’s coffin at the threshing floor at Atad and choosing restoration and redemption over vengeance. A threshing floor is a place of judgment in Scripture and Rabbi Fo...
2023-02-1022 minJUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED | A Guide for Today\'s Perplexed: Torah Foundations, Reason, and Tradition
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 46Parsha in Motion
Parsha in MotionMiketz | Ruth ShaneRuth Shane is a native of Baltimore, Maryland. She has a B.A. in biology fromBarnard College and a Master of Forest Science degree from The Yale School of theEnvironment (previously the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Science). Shetaught high school biology for many years at The Fieldston School in Riverdale, NewYork. Ruth returned to Baltimore and joined the Biochemical Genetics Lab of theUniversity of Maryland School of Medicine. She moved across town to the MolecularDiagnostics Lab of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine from which she...
2022-12-301h 11Good Faith Effort
Good Faith EffortDavid Fohrman - How To Read The Bible Closely Ep. 88The Bible is the most important work in the history of literature, so it seems like a pretty important priority should be to figure out how to read it well! What strategies can your average person use to uncover the Biblical text’s meaning? Which commentaries are most important to consult? Are there new insights we can, perhaps, discover on our own? If so, how?To unpack all this, Ari spoke with the founder of Aleph Beta, the legendary Biblical interpreter and teacher Rabbi David Fohrman. In a wide-ranging conversation they discussed how to br...
2022-11-301h 13Behind the Bima
Behind the BimaSpecial Guest - Rabbi David FohrmanRabbi David Fohrman is an internationally renowned lecturer on biblical themes, and the founder and principal educator at Aleph Beta. He has served as an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University, and as a lead writer and editor for ArtScroll's Talmud translation project. Rabbi Fohrman has also served as scholar for the Hoffberger Foundation for Torah Study. He is the author of The Beast That Crouches at the Door, a finalist for the 2007 National Jewish Book Award, The Queen You Thought You Knew, and The Exodus You Almost Passed Over. His most recent publication is Genesis: A Parsha Companion...
2022-10-271h 26Desert Island Torah
Desert Island TorahEp.17 with Rav David FohrmanIn this episode, we speak to Rav David Fohrman who shares his Desert Island Torah, going through the Aseret HaDibrot, the story of Yosef, and the Creation story. _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Rabbi Fohrman is an internationally renowned lecturer on biblical themes, and the founder and principal educator at Aleph Beta.  https://www.alephbeta.org/ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ You can check out and purchase his books here: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Rabbi-David-Fohrman/author/B004LEK3QM?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true https://www.amazon.co.u...
2022-10-1236 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast280: The Road Back to EdenBrent Billings provides an introduction for Marty Solomon to lead us in a special conversation that means a lot to him personally, meant to help us consider one of the things God is inviting us to as we partner with Him to put the world back together. How do we make it back to Eden?Discussion Video for BEMA 280BEMA 6: A Tale of a TowerThe Beast that Crouches at the Door by Rabbi David Fohrman (Amazon)The Beast that Crouches at the Door by Rabbi David Fohrman (Aleph Beta)
2022-05-2646 minThe Habura (Members Only)
The Habura (Members Only)The Mystery Behind Solomon's Wisdom (2) - Rabbi David FohrmanRabbi David Fohrman is an internationally renowned lecturer on biblical themes, and the founder and principal educator at Aleph Beta. We are an online and global Bet Midrash with international students, striving to know God by embracing the world through the lens of Torah. Web: www.TheHabura.com   WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LAurH2Lw3y92gF31PhzN42 Instagram: @TheHabura   Facebook: The Habura A project of the Senior Rabbi's Office (www.seniorrabbi.com), S&P Sephardi Community of the UK, Montefiore Endowment, and Dangoor Education.   #torah #talmud #yeshiva #betmidrash #sephardi #sepharadi #sephardic #sefardi #sef...
2022-05-261h 04The Habura (Members Only)
The Habura (Members Only)The Mystery Behind Solomon's Wisdom (1) - Rabbi David FohrmanRabbi David Fohrman is an internationally renowned lecturer on biblical themes, and the founder and principal educator at Aleph Beta.   We are an online and global Bet Midrash with international students, striving to know God by embracing the world through the lens of Torah.    Web: www.TheHabura.com   WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LAurH2Lw3y92gF31PhzN42 Instagram: @TheHabura   Facebook: The Habura    A project of the Senior Rabbi's Office (www.seniorrabbi.com), S&P Sephardi Community of the UK, Montefiore Endowment, and Dangoor Education.   #torah #talmud #yeshiva #betmidrash #sephardi...
2022-05-1945 minMM Daily Clips
MM Daily ClipsIn Every Moment — Rabbi David FohrmanIn Every Moment — Rabbi David Fohrman
2022-05-1701 minMeaningful People
Meaningful PeopleRabbi David Fohrman - Aleph BetaRabbi David Fohrman is the founder and lead scholar at Aleph Beta Academy. He is author of "The Beast that Crouches at the Door," finalist for the 2007 National Jewish Book Award, and "The Queen You Thought You Knew." Rabbi Fohrman seeks to open layers of meaning of Biblical text and to help the reader develop a relationship with the texts that make us who we are. Aleph Beta's CEO is Imu Shalev. For more of his work, see www.alephbeta.org. Want to hear more of Rabbi Fohrman's teachings? Aleph Beta is giving our listeners a free...
2022-02-061h 40J-TV Podcasts
J-TV PodcastsRabbi David Fohrman (Aleph Beta) - Full InterviewRecorded in 2017, Ollie was in New York speaking to one of his favourite Jewish educators - Rabbi David Fohrman. Rabbi Fohrman runs Aleph Beta - an organization which provides superb animated videos that uncover the wisdom and beauty within Biblical texts - alephbeta.org Timecodes:0:00 Do we need to focus more on Written Torah vs Talmud?9:05 What is your methodology for learning Torah?45:13 Why & How Should We 'Fear' God?56:50 Is the God of the Hebrew Bible a vengeful, punishing God?1:07:24 What are key lessons from our Biblical...
2021-11-011h 25Seforimchatter
SeforimchatterWith Rabbi David Fohrman discussing his work at Aleph Beta and his "Parsha Companion" series#99** Are you looking for a way to learn Torah that will leave you feeling excited and inspired?Alephbeta.org is filled with stunning animated videos and slickly-produced audios on the parsha, holidays, prayers, and many other topics that present Torah ideas in an easy-to-consume way. Their goal is to help people closely read the Torah to discover its beauty, meaning and relevance. Their in-depth materials on the Parsha will leave you moved and inspired, revitalizing your learning just in time for Sefer Bereishis.Listeners to our...
2021-10-241h 19Jews You Should Know
Jews You Should KnowThe Aleph Beta Founder: A Conversation with David FohrmanABOUT THIS EPISODE Rabbi David Fohrman is one of the most creative, surprising Biblical scholars and educators today. His Aleph Beta site offers sophisticated material in popularly accessible packaging. R' Fohrman's insights are often breathtaking, and can be inspiring to attentive students. -------------------- ABOUT THIS PODCAST Jews You Should Know introduces the broader community to interesting and inspiring Jewish men and women making a difference in our world. Some are already famous, some not yet so. But each is a Jew You Should Know. The host, Rabbi Ari Koretzky...
2021-06-151h 01The BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast219: Becky Solomon — Loving the AdventureMarty Solomon is joined by his wife, Becky. They talk about what it is like to live their lifestyle, and how that plays out in their marriage and their parenting.Discussion Video for BEMA 219Family Culture Project (website)Family Culture Project (email)Use code bemalistener for 15% off.Marty’s Holiday Series — YouTubeSupersessionism — WikipediaCultural Appropriation — WikipediaBEMA 25: A Kingdom of What?The Beast that Crouches at the Door by Rabbi David Fohrman (Amazon)The Beast that Crouches at the Door...
2021-05-1351 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast215: Character Study — Joseph, Part 2Marty Solomon and Brent Billings merge the studies of Joseph and Jacob. As Joseph eventually experiences a reunification of his family, what more is left to do? Shouldn’t they sit back and enjoy the redemption in Egypt? Apparently not, according to Jacob.Discussion Video for BEMA 215The Exodus You Almost Passed Over by Rabbi David FohrmanGenesis: A Parsha Companion by Rabbi David FohrmanAleph Beta AcademySubscribe to Aleph Beta AcademyBEMA listeners can use code friendsofbema for one month off of a monthly Premium me...
2021-04-1532 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast214: Character Study — Joseph, Part 1Marty Solomon and Brent Billings examine the arguments surrounding who bought Joseph from his brothers.Discussion Video for BEMA 214The Exodus You Almost Passed Over by Rabbi David FohrmanGenesis: A Parsha Companion by Rabbi David FohrmanAleph Beta AcademySubscribe to Aleph Beta AcademyBEMA listeners can use code friendsofbema for one month off of a monthly Premium membership.Rashi — WikipediaMaimonides — WikipediaNachmanides — WikipediaTranscript for BEMA 214Support The BEMA Podcast
2021-04-0837 minAlastair\'s Adversaria
Alastair's AdversariaThe Wonderful Story of Esther (with Devon Phillips, James Bejon, and Steven Wedgeworth)Steven Wedgeworth is currently preaching through the book of Esther and invited me, Devon Phillips, and James Bejon to join him for a discussion of the book, hosted on my podcast. Within this conversation we reference several treatments of the book. Here are a few: Steven Wedgeworth Sermons on Esther: https://faithvan.com/search?q=Esther&f_collectionId=5ace967388251b8279176a98 Devon Phillips A Meditation on Purim: https://www.faipublishing.org/articles/purim Twitter thread on Esther: https://twitter.com/devoninmena/status/1364878723888078849?s=21 James Bejon Esther and Agag: https://www.academia.edu/40042595/Esther_and_Agag Esther: A Literary Analysis: https...
2021-03-251h 40Chinuch 2.0
Chinuch 2.0How should we be teaching chumash in schools with Rabbi David FohrmanThe first thing children are taught in school is chumash, and for the most part, they never stop learning it. But are we really teaching it the right way? Rabbi David Fohrman has spent his whole life devoted to the study of chumash and the proper way to study its deeper meaning. In this wide-ranging conversation, we spoke about how we give kids the wrong perspective about chumash from the very beginning when we tell them sensational stories about the parsha, such as the extending hand of Pharoh's daughter when she rescued Moshe...
2021-03-081h 0918Forty Podcast
18Forty PodcastRabbi David Fohrman: Does the Torah Teach Science? [Science 3/4]In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we sit down with Rabbi David Fohrman - author, lecturer, and founder of the Aleph Beta Academy - to discuss in what genre the Torah is meant to be, and how that should influence the way we think about it. There are many approaches one could take when confronted with science that seem to contradict parts of the Torah. Some, including Nathan Aviezer, orchestrate elaborate readings of the beginning of Bereishis in accordance with Biblical concordism. Some, like Natan Slifkin, feel comfortable reading the pesukim metaphorically, feeling less need to provide...
2020-12-011h 15The Koren Podcast
The Koren PodcastTorah and Technology with Rabbanit Sara Wolkenfeld and Rabbi David Fohrman The impact technology has had on Torah is huge. We sat down with two people at the forefront of using tech and the internet to teach Torah to millions of people around the world.  Whether creating an opensource platform to give access to the full range of Jewish texts in Hebrew and English to allow people to share their own learning, or creating an outlet for ideas that, previously, had no means of reaching people on the scale they deserved.Rabbanit Sara Tillinger Wolkenfeld is the Chief Learning Officer at Sefaria.org, an online database, a...
2020-08-171h 21The Koren Podcast
The Koren PodcastTorah and Technology with Rabbanit Sara Wolkenfeld and Rabbi David FohrmanThe impact technology has had on Torah is huge. We sat down with two people at the forefront of using tech and the internet to teach Torah to millions of people around the world.  Whether creating an opensource platform to give access to the full range of Jewish texts in Hebrew and English to allow people to share their own learning, or creating an outlet for ideas that, previously, had no means of reaching people on the scale they deserved.Rabbanit Sara Tillinger Wolkenfeld is the Chief Learning Officer at Sefaria.org, an online...
2020-08-171h 21Parsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph Beta3. The New NormalWe’re now several days into the new normal... except that the new normal changes every day. In this episode, Rabbi Fohrman shares his thoughts on finding spiritual strength in the face of chaos. He begins by looking at a model in the Talmud of someone who attempted to hold onto normalcy: Marta bat Baitos, Martha daughter of Boethus, a noblewoman who struggled to live through the days of the destruction of the Temple. Rabbi Fohrman also reflects on Stephen Covey’s circle of control and raises the question of how we, as religious people, can use faith to let go o...
2020-03-1800 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph Beta2. Going Into Lockdown: A Conversation With Rabbi RothwachsOn Thursday, the Rabbinical Council of Bergen County took the frightening step of closing all centers of community -- not only schools, but synagogues, and restaurants, too. Plus, people were asked to refrain from hosting shabbat meals, making playdates for kids, even going to the park. In this episode, Rabbi Larry Rothwachs, synagogue rabbi of Congregation Beth Aaron in Teaneck, NJ, and a past president of RCBC, joins Imu in an open conversation about how this historic decision was made, how members of our community are feeling, and how we can all help one another cope with the practical and...
2020-03-1800 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph Beta1. Aleph Beta Quarantined: An IntroductionNo, this isn't Parsha Lab...it's a new podcast from Aleph Beta. Presenting: Aleph Beta Quarantined. Every day, every hour, almost every minute, it feels like there is some breaking news about what is happening with COVID 19. Schools are canceled. Synagogues are shutting their doors. Restaurants are closing. We are scared, we are looking into an unknown, and we feel alone and lonely. In this new podcast, Rabbi David Fohrman and Imu Shalev address some of the fears so many of us are facing, and talk about some of the most pressing topics they will address in future episodes. From...
2020-03-1800 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast121: The Key to Your Own PrisonMarty Solomon and Brent Billings discuss the many teachings of Matthew 18, including some parables and rabbinic insights from Jesus.Discussion Video for BEMA 121Love Wins by Rob BellErasing Hell by Francis ChanBEMA 36: The Redemption CycleThe Queen You Thought You Knew by Rabbi David FohrmanBEMA 70: Esther — PurimThe Parable of the Unforgiving Servant — Reed Dent, Campus Christian FellowshipTranscript for BEMA 121Support The BEMA Podcast
2019-06-1345 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaParsha Lab Says - See You Soon!You might have noticed that you haven’t heard a new episode in the last two weeks. Well, in this “mini” episode, we explain next steps for Parsha Lab. If you want to revisit past episodes of Parsha Lab, the episodes will continue to live on Aleph Beta’s site and app. For new Aleph Beta content, check out alephbeta.org or download the Aleph Beta app.
2018-10-1700 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp. 36 Parshat V'Zot Habracha: Moshe’s Final FarewellIn the Torah’s final parsha, Moshe is preparing to take leave of the nation he has been so devoted all of these years. He gives them blessings before taking his final departure. He then ascends a mountain and is laid to rest in an unknown burial place. Or is it? A careful reading of Moshe’s blessings may give us clues as to where he was buried. The significance of this is not so much about identifying the geographical location of his grave, as it is about teaching us a profound lesson in loyalty, brotherhood and redeeming unfulfilled dreams. Join...
2018-09-2800 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.35 Parshat Ha’azinu: Is This The Song of Doom?In Parshat Ha’azinu, the Israelites receive a frightening prophetic “song” about their future failure to follow God’s will, and the punishment they receive as a result. When Moshe introduces this prophecy, he states that he hopes his speech will fall “ke-se’irim alei desheh” -- like some sort of ‘rain upon grass.’ What does that mean? And why is it stated as an introduction to the song? Join Daniel Loewenstein and Ami Silver as they explore the hidden layers of meaning in Ha’azinu, and the crucial questions it raises for us today.
2018-09-1700 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.34 Parshat Vayeilech: What's Wrong With Moses’ Leadership?Parshat Vayeilech records Moses’ farewell speech on the last day of his life. In the opening of this speech, Moses reminds the people that he won’t be leading them into Israel and that Joshua will take over his position. But when you look closely at what Moses says about Joshua, you can’t help but ask, was Moses trying to sabotage Joshua's leadership? Or was Moses trying to warn the people about something? Join Beth Lesch and Daniel Loewenstein as the re-examine the text and discover a hidden narrative in the Torah about the dangers of leadership -- and never...
2018-09-1000 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.33 Parshat Nitzavim: What Is the 'Hidden Sin' In This Week's Parsha?Parshat Nitzavim states, “The hidden things are for God but the revealed things are for us,” which suggests perhaps that only God can punish for sins done in private. Could the parsha be alluding to a specific hidden sin in our history? Join Beth Lesch and Ami Silver as they re-examine the text of Nitzavim and its references to the story of the Sale of Joseph, and never think about Parshat Nitzavim the same way again.
2018-09-0300 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.32 Parshat Ki Tavo: What Are Blessings And Curses, Really?In Parshat Ki Tavo, the Israelites are told that when they enter the land they must publicly bless those who keep the commandments, and curse those who violate them. And they have to proclaim these blessings and curses on two mountains -- Mount Gerizim and Mount Eval. But why? What's so special about these mountains? And why must the blessings and curses be reviewed in such a public way? Join Daniel Loewenstein and Beth Lesch as they use the gematria, grammar and topography hidden in Ki Tavo to consider what blessings and curses are really about -- and never think...
2018-08-2700 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.31 Parshat Ki Teitzei: Remember Amalek; Don't ForgetThis week’s parsha includes the commandment to wipe out the memory of Amalek, the nation who attacked the Israelites just weeks after the Exodus from Egypt. It’s the kind of mitzvah that makes our skin crawl in the 21st century. Why would God command wiping out an entire people? What did they do that was so evil that they deserve to be completely erased from history? And why does the Torah use this cryptic language of memory and forgetting to give this command? Our parsha holds a surprising key for solving the Amalek puzzle, through a completely different mitz...
2018-08-2000 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.30 Parshat Shoftim: What Does It Mean To Be A Fair Judge?In Parshat Shoftim, we're given a detailed list of instructions as to how to establish a justice system. Yet there are seemingly random topics woven into these instructions, like idolatry, and how to properly offer an animal to God. Is there a reason for these odd interludes? Are they telling us something important about the justice system? Join Daniel Loewenstein and Beth Lesch as they consider what true justice in the Torah really is -- and never think of Parshat Shoftim the same.
2018-08-1300 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.29 Parshat Re’eh: How Does God Really Feel About Child Sacrifice?In the beginning of Parshat Re’eh, the Torah warns not to follow other gods that "we don’t know." Idolatry is prohibited, so why does it matter whether we "know” these other gods or not? Join Beth Lesch and Ami Silver as they re-examine the text and its parallels to Akeidat Yitzchak (Sacrifice of Isaac) and understand what it means to “know” God, and for God to “know” you -- and never think about Parshat Re'eh the same way again. For more about the Binding of Isaac: https://www.alephbeta.org/playlist/akeidah-heroism-or-murder
2018-08-0600 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.28 Parshat Eikev: Is this Another Akeidah?In Parshat Eikev, Moshe is gearing up the people to enter the land of Israel. He’s laying out conditions of what God will expect, and what they can expect in return. But strangely, peppered throughout Moshe's talk are echoes and references to Akeidat Yitzchak (Sacrifice of Isaac). Why is this story being referenced here? What is Moshe communicating the people by comparing entering the land to the story of Abraham and Isaac? Join Ami Silver and Daniel Loewenstein as they explore these themes and more, this week on ParshaLab.
2018-07-3000 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.27 Parshat Va’etchanan: How Do We Manage The Influences Around Us?In Parshat Va’etchanan, the Israelites are forbidden from intermarrying with the Canaanite nations when they enter the land of Israel. While the rationale for this commandment may seem straightforward, its language echoes another story of a foreign nation, namely the story of the brutal mistreatment of Dina in Genesis. What do the Canaanites and Shechem have in common? Join Daniel Loewenstein and Beth Lesch as they re-examine these two narratives and explore the Torah’s understanding of how to both work with and manage the values of the foreign nations around us today -- and never think about Parshat Va’e...
2018-07-2300 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.26 Parshat Devarim: What Did The Spies Do Wrong?We know God wasn't pleased with the spies. Due to their actions, an entire generation would die in the desert, never entering the Promised Land. But what exactly did the spies do wrong? They reported that the land of Israel 'flows with milk and honey' and was inhabited by strong peoples -- weren't they just telling the truth? Why was God blaming the spies for reporting their experience? Join Beth Lesch and Ami Silver as they explore Moses' retelling and of the spies and discover their real failure and their children's opportunity to redeem their sin -- and never think...
2018-07-1600 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.25 Parshat Matot-Masei: The Hidden Story Of Brothers, Borders, And Moses’ BurialIn Parshat Matot-Masei, the Israelites are on the cusp of entering Israel, right on the Eastern side of the Jordan. But before they do, the tribes of Reuven and Gad ask Moshe to stay by the border, as the land is advantageous to raise their herd. At first furious, Moshe agrees to let them have the land provided they battle alongside their brethren as they enter Israel. But there’s something unique about this exchange -- it’s strikingly similar to another negotiation between Joseph and his brothers all the way back in the Book of Genesis. How are the nego...
2018-07-0900 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.24 Parshat Pinchas: How Is Land Ownership Connected To The Pesach Sheni Offering?In Parshat Pinchas, we read about the daughters of Tzelaphchad, who sought to inherit their father’s land. God granted their request, and even codified it into law. But there’s something unique about this story — it’s strikingly similar to the story of the Pesach Sheini offering. When a group of ritually impure people approached Moses and requested a way to make an offering, God codified a practice called Pesach Sheni, which acted as a “make-up” offering for the impure. But what does inheriting land and ritually impurity have to do with each other? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Daniel Loewenstein...
2018-07-0200 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.23 Parshat Balak: Why Weren't The Plagues Enough?As the Israelites made their way towards the Promised Land, they encountered many nations -- Edomites, Canaanites, Amorites, Moabites -- who greeted them with less than open arms. But after seeing what God did to the Egyptians, wouldn't it have been better to take them in and avoid God's wrath? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Beth Lesch as they re-examine the text of Numbers to understand how these nations thought about God and the Israelites -- and never think about Parshat Balak the same way again.
2018-06-2500 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp.22 Parshat Chukat: Why Do We Need A Red Heifer?In Parshat Chukat, we read the laws surrounding the Red Heifer — the rare cow whose ash is used to purify those who stood too close to a corpse. But what is the reason for this unique ritual? Why do we need the ash of a red cow to be purified? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Daniel Loewenstein as they re-examine the text of the Red Heifer and discover a striking reference to the Garden of Eden — and never think about Parshat Chukat the same way again.
2018-06-1800 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 21. Parshat Korach: Where did The Rebellion Start?In Parshat Korach, there’s a sudden rebellion against Moses and Aaron. Korach, the leader of the rebellion, argues that all Israelites are holy, not just Moses and Aaron. But where did his distrust of Israel’s leaders come from? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Ami Silver as they re-examine Korach’s family origin, which is recorded in the text, and see how his upbringing may have played a significant role in the rebellion -- and never think about Parshat Korach the same way again.
2018-06-1100 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 20. Parshat Shelach: Spies. Conspiracies. And the Two Men Caught In The Middle — Sound Familiar?In Parshat Shelach, we read the story of the spies who ventured to the land of Israel and brought back a false report to the Israelites. But there’s something very strange about their report. Aside from being inaccurate, it’s strikingly similar to another story we’ve heard. A group of twelve men, ten of whom committed a terrible sin and two of whom were innocent — sound familiar? Join Rivky and Beth as they re-examine the text of the spy story — and never think about Parshat Shelach the same way again.
2018-06-0400 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 19. Parshat Beha’alotecha: Is it the Beginning of the End?In Parshat Beha’alotecha we complete the Mishkan story that started in the middle of Exodus and is completed all the way into this portion of Bamidbar. Finally, the children of Israel are ready to embark on their journey to the Holy Land with the Mishkan - God’s dwelling place - by their side. But their journey quickly takes a turn for the worse as the saga of the desert experience begins to fester with complaints, regrets, and slander. Is this the beginning of the end? What will become of the Israelite’s journey? Join Ami and Rivky as they s...
2018-05-2800 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 18. Naso: What Are The Unique Laws of Sotah Really About?Parshat Naso introduces us to one of the oddest laws in the Torah, the laws of the Sotah -- a woman suspected of adultery by her husband. If the woman chooses to defend her honor, she is able to partake in an ancient ritual where the Kohen makes her drink tampered water. If she’s telling the truth, nothing happens and she’s rewarded with children. But if she’s lying, she has a traumatic reaction to the water and she’s killed. What is the basis for this strange law and where did the procedure originate? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Rivk...
2018-05-2100 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 17. Bamidbar: Is the “Book of Numbers” A Good Translation for “Bamidbar”?Parshat Bamidbar is the first Parsha in the book of Bamidbar. Strangely enough, the names our Sages give to the Books of Torah often don’t line up with the Hebrew. Case in point, the Sages call Bamidbar “Sefer Hapikudim,” or the Book of Numbers. But what do numbers have to do with Bamidbar? Sure, the Israelites are counted in the beginning, but why is the whole book called Numbers? Is there actually a theme being presented in the title? And for that matter, are all of the Sages' titles actually presenting a bigger idea? Join Rabbi Fohrman and a specia...
2018-05-1400 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 16. Behar-Bechukotai: Shemittah, Yovel and… Mount Sinai?This week’s double parsha, Behar-Bechokotai, focuses on the agricultural cycles of Shemittah and Yovel. Strangely enough, the language here carries echoes of some of the themes of last week’s parsha, and even seems to take us all the way back to Mount Sinai. Are these ideas somehow connected? What could the revelation at Sinai have to do with agricultural laws in the land of Israel? Join Rivky Stern and first time co-host Ami Silver as they explore these fascinating connections and the implications for what it means to live together with God in this world.
2018-05-0700 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 15. Emor: What Does the Omer Offering Have To Do With the Jewish Holidays?In Parshat Emor, we read through the laws and details of the Biblical holidays. But this section also includes a few other laws - like the Omer offering, and agricultural laws like Pe’ah and Leket. Why are those laws included with the Jewish holidays? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Rivky as they re-examine the Emor text, and discover its subtle shared language with a few other texts of the Torah — and never about Parshat Emor the same way again.
2018-04-3000 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 14. Acharei Mot-Kedoshim: What Does Yom Kippur Have To Do With Megillat Esther?In Acharei Mot, we learn about the priest’s Yom Kippur service in the Tabernacle. But there’s something very interesting about the language used to describe this section — it’s strikingly similar to the story of Megillat Esther. What does Yom Kippur -- with its themes of repentance and closeness to God -- have to do with Esther? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Rivky as they re-examine these two texts, and never think Acharei Mot or Megillat Esther the same way again.
2018-04-2300 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 13. Tazria-Metzora: What Does Childbirth Have In Common With Leprosy?In this weeks double parsha, Tazria-Metzora, we learn about the different ways that one can became “tamei,” spiritually impure -- such as giving birth, to someone who has contracted leprosy. But how do these radically different ways of becoming tamei actually connect? Are we meant to believe that the miracle of birth is similar to a plague of deformity? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Imu as they reexamine the text of this weeks parsha, and find thematic connections to explain how these strange laws are actually connected -- and never thing of tumah the same way again.
2018-04-1600 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast70: Esther — PurimMarty Solomon and Brent Billings discuss the book of Esther and the story that lies behind the celebration of Purim.Discussion Video for BEMA 70The Queen You Thought You Knew by Rabbi David FohrmanThe Story #20: The Queen of Beauty and Courage sermon — YouTubeTranscript for BEMA 70Support The BEMA Podcast
2018-04-1234 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 12. Shemini: What Does The Induction Ceremony For The Priests Have To Do With...Purim?We learn in Shemini about the induction of Aaron and his sons into the priesthood. Interestingly, there are bunch of similarities - in language, and in theme - between this story, and the story of Megillat Esther. But what does the induction of priests have to do with Esther?? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Rivky as they examine this puzzle - and never think about the priesthood, or Megillat Esther - the same way again.
2018-04-0900 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 10. Vayikra: Is It More Than Just Laws About Korbanot?We learn in Vayikra about the laws of the Korbanot — sacrifices to God. But there’s something very difficult about studying Vayikra. It can be incredibly boring. There’s no storyline, just a lot of very specific rules. So, how can we approach Vayikra in a more engaging way? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Imu as they reexamine the two narratives surrounding Vayikra — the story of God’s cloud directing the Israelites — and discover a new narrative, with insights about how to become closer to God.
2018-03-1200 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 9. Vayakhel-Pekudei: What Do the Tabernacle and Creation Have In Common?We learn in Vayakhel-Pekudei about the appointment of Betzalel as the architect of the Tabernacle. But there’s something very striking about the language describing this appointment. It sounds eerily similar to the language in the Creation story. What do Betzalel’s appointment and creation have in common? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Imu as they explore the commonalities between God creating the world for man and man creating the Tabernacle for God, and never think about Betzalel’s appointment the same way again.
2018-03-0500 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp 8. Ki Tisa: Why Would Anyone Want To Build a Golden Calf?We learn in Parshat Ki Tisa about the infamous sin the Israelite’s committed by creating the Golden Calf. But there’s something very unclear about this story — why would the Israelite’s want to build a Golden Calf? It's not like people today want to build and pray to idols, so why would the Israelite’s? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Imu as they explore the text of the Golden Calf and debate the real reason the people wanted to build a new “godly” figure. You’ll never think of the Golden Calf the same way again. For more information on the Israelite...
2018-02-2600 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp7. Tetzaveh: What Do the Laws of Choshen Mishpat Teach Us About Our Relationship To God?We learn in Parshat Tetzaveh about the specific laws relating to the Kohen Gadol’s Breastplate — the Choshen Mishpat. But why should we care about these esoteric and seemingly inapplicable laws? Join Rabbi Fohrman and Imu as they take a look back at Parshat Mishpatim and find an intriguing relationship to the laws of the judges. You’ll never think of Choshen Mishpat the same way again.
2018-02-2000 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp6. Terumah: What's So Special About The Tablets?We learn in Parshat Terumah that the tablets of the 10 Commandments have a central place in the mishkan, the Tabernacle. But why? A clue might come from the Torah's constant use of the word "edut," testimony, and "moed," a place of meeting. Come join Rabbi Fohrman and Imu as they puzzle it out.
2018-02-1200 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp5. Mishpatim - The Ten Commandments… The Sequel?This week, Imu guides Rabbi Fohrman into the myriad of laws of Mishpatim. He points out some subtle connections - both in theme, and in language, between these laws and the Ten Commandments, we just heard last week, and asks, why? Why is there a replay of the Ten Commandments?
2018-02-0700 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp4. Yitro: Fowl Play? The Significance of Birds in the TorahThis week, Rabbi Fohrman tests Imu - where do birds appear in the Torah? How do they connect to each other? Is there some sort of theme that connects the birds together? And how does any of this relate to Parshat Yitro, the parsha in which God gives the Torah to the Israelite people at Sinai?
2018-01-2900 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp3. Beshalach - Why Is God Testing The Israelites?When the people first enter the wilderness, God withholds water...to test the people? In fact, this idea of God "testing" the nation shows up in every single story of this parsha! What is God really testing, and why test the people? In this podcast, Rabbi Fohrman and Imu Shalev discuss this pattern, and try to get to the bottom of the subtle connection between these stories.
2018-01-2200 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp2. Bo - Arbeh the Plague…and Arbeh, the Blessing?This week, Rabbi Fohrman and Imu do a deep dive into the plague of arbeh, locusts, in Parshat Bo. They ask, why does the Torah use language “eye” and “seeing” here? Could it connect to the word “arbeh,” used back in Genesis, which connected to the blessing of Israel? For Rabbi Fohrman's book: https://shop.alephbeta.org/products/passover-book-the-exodus-you-almost-passed-over For more Aleph Beta, try our app: iTunes: itunes.apple.com/us/app/torah-vid…id598939260?mt=8 Android: play.google.com/store/apps/detail…eta.android&hl=en
2018-01-1400 minParsha Lab from Aleph Beta
Parsha Lab from Aleph BetaEp1. Va'era - What's With The Plagues?This week, Rabbi Fohrman and Imu tackle Parshat Va'era and ask - are the plagues just arbitrary? Or do they mean something real, to the Israelite, the Egyptians, and to us, today? For more Aleph Beta, try our app. iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/torah-videos-by-aleph-beta/id598939260?mt=8 Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.alephbeta.android&hl=en
2018-01-0300 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast19: A Strengthened HeartMarty Solomon and Brent Billings dive into the story of the Passover and its plagues, God’s interaction with Pharaoh, and the call of God’s rescued people.The Exodus You Almost Passed Over by Rabbi David FohrmanTefillin — WikipediaHistory of Monopoly — Wikipediakavad — Blue Letter Biblechazak — Blue Letter Bible Study Tools Discussion Video for BEMA 19 The Companion for BEMA 19 Take Your Own Notes Transcript for BEMA 19 Legacy Episode Content Episode updated 12 May 2025 Original audio from 16 February 2017 Transcript for BEMA 19 of 16...
2017-02-1647 minThe BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast16: Out of the PitMarty Solomon, Brent Billings, and Elle Grover Fricks finish the study of the life of Joseph, covering Genesis 41–50.Out of the Pit Presentation (PDF)Rabbi David Fohrman — TorahAnytimeThe Joseph Story — Aleph Beta AcademySubscribe to Aleph Beta AcademyBEMA listeners can use code friendsofbema for one month off of a monthly Premium membership.Genesis: A Parsha Companion by Rabbi David Fohrman Study Tools Discussion Video for BEMA 16 The Companion for BEMA 16 Take Your Own Notes Transcript for BEMA 16 Legacy Episod...
2017-01-2647 min