Shows
Daily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 101: A Thorny Question Welcome to the Two Hundred Fifty Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Michael Bernstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 101.
What kind of protection do the Sages provide
Rabbi Michael Bernstein is the spiritual leader of Congregation Gesher L’Torah in Alpharetta, Ga. He served as the senior Rabbi at Congregation Bnai Jacob in Longmeadow, MA from 1999-2004, and at Congregation Beth Am Israel in Penn Valley, Pa., from 2004-2008. Michael received his ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary in 1999 and is an alumni of the Rabbis Without Borders second cohort. Michael sp...2020-11-1808 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 100: Nothing Added, Nothing Taken Away Welcome to the Two Hundred Fifty Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Michael Bernstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 100.
In this episode we find ourselves “up a tree without a clear ruling”
Rabbi Michael Bernstein is the spiritual leader of Congregation Gesher L’Torah in Alpharetta, Ga. He served as the senior Rabbi at Congregation Bnai Jacob in Longmeadow, MA from 1999-2004, and at Congregation Beth Am Israel in Penn Valley, Pa., from 2004-2008. Michael received his ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary in 1999 and is an alumni of the Rabbis Withou...2020-11-1709 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 99: Spitting Image Welcome to the Two Hundred Fifty Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Michael Bernstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 99.
Making sure not to cause others to hate Torah and its representatives
Rabbi Michael Bernstein is the spiritual leader of Congregation Gesher L’Torah in Alpharetta, Ga. He served as the senior Rabbi at Congregation Bnai Jacob in Longmeadow, MA from 1999-2004, and at Congregation Beth Am Israel in Penn Valley, Pa., from 2004-2008. Michael received his ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary in 1999 and is an alumni of the Rabbis Without Bo...2020-11-1606 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 98: Torah on the Threshhold
Welcome to the Two Hundred Fifty Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Michael Bernstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 98.
Today we ask how do we treat sacred writings with respect while taking sometimes necessary risks?
Rabbi Michael Bernstein is the spiritual leader of Congregation Gesher L’Torah in Alpharetta, Ga. He served as the senior Rabbi at Congregation Bnai Jacob in Longmeadow, MA from 1999-2004, and at Congregation Beth Am Israel in Penn Valley, Pa., from 2004-2008. Michael received his ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary in 1999 and is...2020-11-1511 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 97: Out With The New, In With The Old Welcome to the Two Hundred Fifty Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Juan Mejia looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 97.
Today we look at tefilin, amulets and the value of tradition.
Rabbi Juan Mejia was born in Bogota, Colombia. After discovering the Jewish roots of his family, he embarked on a spiritual journey that lead him back to the religion and the people of his ancestors. He holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy from the National University of Colombia and a summa cum laude Master’s Degree in Jewish Civilization from the He...2020-11-1409 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 95 Welcome to the Two Hundred Fiftieth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Juan Mejia looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 95.
Today we focus on lost tefillin and the Torah of accesibility.
Rabbi Juan Mejia was born in Bogota, Colombia. After discovering the Jewish roots of his family, he embarked on a spiritual journey that lead him back to the religion and the people of his ancestors. He holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy from the National University of Colombia and a summa cum laude Master’s Degree in Jewish Civilization from the Hebrew Un...2020-11-1209 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 93 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Juan Mejia looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 93.
Toda we focus on how walls can create connections.
Rabbi Juan Mejia was born in Bogota, Colombia. After discovering the Jewish roots of his family, he embarked on a spiritual journey that lead him back to the religion and the people of his ancestors. He holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy from the National University of Colombia and a summa cum laude Master’s Degree in Jewish Civilization from the Hebrew University of...2020-11-1006 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 92 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Juan Mejia looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 92.
Today we look at the flexibility of space: when nine people in one room and one in another might make a minyan or not.
Rabbi Juan Mejia was born in Bogota, Colombia. After discovering the Jewish roots of his family, he embarked on a spiritual journey that lead him back to the religion and the people of his ancestors. He holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy from the National University of Colombia...2020-11-0908 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 91 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Juan Mejia looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 91.
In this episode we look at the paradox of rabbinic space: is space infinitely flexible or does physicality determine the uses of a space.
Rabbi Juan Mejia was born in Bogota, Colombia. After discovering the Jewish roots of his family, he embarked on a spiritual journey that lead him back to the religion and the people of his ancestors. He holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy from the National University of Colombia...2020-11-0810 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 90 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Wise looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 90.
What’s the worst answer you can receive to your question? How about not receiving an answer? And, what if, like Andy Samberg and Akon, “You’re on a Boat (on Shabbat)?
David Wise has been rabbi of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center in Queens, NY since 2005. Before that, he led Temple Beth El in Somerset, NJ. Ordained at JTS in1996, he is proudly married to Judy Krinitz and is the father of two...2020-11-0708 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 89 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Wise looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 89.
Today we ask focus on the fact that memory is a cornerstone of the Talmudic enterprise. If a sage can’t remember the tradition, he’s in trouble. So what happens when memory fails?
David Wise has been rabbi of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center in Queens, NY since 2005. Before that, he led Temple Beth El in Somerset, NJ. Ordained at JTS in1996, he is proudly married to Judy Krinitz and is the...2020-11-0610 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 88 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Wise looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 88.
The question in today’s episode is “May I spill waste water on Shabbat?” Does the answer change when the weather changes?
David Wise has been rabbi of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center in Queens, NY since 2005. Before that, he led Temple Beth El in Somerset, NJ. Ordained at JTS in1996, he is proudly married to Judy Krinitz and is the father of two teens. And then there’s that thing he has for...2020-11-0510 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 86 Welcome to the Two Hundred Forty First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Wise looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 86.
Today we ask Why did the sages of the Talmud fawn over rich people? Is there something about visiting your married children on Shabbat that could lead to eruv issues?
David Wise has been rabbi of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center in Queens, NY since 2005. Before that, he led Temple Beth El in Somerset, NJ. Ordained at JTS in1996, he is proudly married to Judy Krinitz and is the father of two...2020-11-0310 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 84 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Wise looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 84.
In this episode, Rav and Shmuel differ about how to understand the Mishnah. Can either be proven correct? Can we “hang our hat” on either one?
David Wise has been rabbi of the Hollis Hills Jewish Center in Queens, NY since 2005. Before that, he led Temple Beth El in Somerset, NJ. Ordained at JTS in1996, he is proudly married to Judy Krinitz and is the father of two teens. And then there’s that...2020-11-0109 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 83 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Greenstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 83.
This page exhibits the tension between the attempt to quantify legal rulings and the messiness of everyday life. Is this problem specifically tied to the breakdown of tradition in modern times, or is it essential to the rabbinic enterprise?
David Greenstein serves as rabbi of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Montclair, NJ. He is the author of Roads to Utopia: The Walking Stories of the Zohar (Stanford University Press; forthcoming).
The...2020-10-3112 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 82 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Greenstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 82.
The community building purpose of eruv is highlighted in special ways. It is a mitzvah to make an eruv to facilitate visiting and comforting mourners, even on Shabbat. Children, too, were included in the eruv.
David Greenstein serves as rabbi of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Montclair, NJ. He is the author of Roads to Utopia: The Walking Stories of the Zohar (Stanford University Press; forthcoming).
The opening and closing music...2020-10-3012 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 81 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Greenstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 81.
We encounter two seemingly conflicting propositions. The sages instructed that, in any legal dispute regarding an eruv, the lenient view should always be adopted. Yet the Talmud seems to accept the stringent view regarding the requirement for a whole loaf to help make an eruv? Why?
David Greenstein serves as rabbi of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Montclair, NJ. He is the author of Roads to Utopia: The Walking Stories of the Zohar...2020-10-2912 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 79 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Greenstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 79.
Overcoming boundaries continues to be the theme. This question is germane to family groups as well as to communal spaces. How dependent or separate were adult children or wives in relation to the patriarchal head of the family unit?
David Greenstein serves as rabbi of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Montclair, NJ. He is the author of Roads to Utopia: The Walking Stories of the Zohar (Stanford University Press; forthcoming).
The...2020-10-2712 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 78 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Greenstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 78.
There are various legal details discussed on this page. When does attention to detail lead to mundane pedantry and when does it evince the impulse to poetry? Which is more real – the mundane or the poetic.
David Greenstein serves as rabbi of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Montclair, NJ. He is the author of Roads to Utopia: The Walking Stories of the Zohar (Stanford University Press; forthcoming).
The opening and closing mu...2020-10-2612 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 77 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi David Greenstein looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 77.
The discussion deals with dividers between two spaces. When can these dividers be breached and when do they retain their identity as separators? This leads us to examine a key aspect of Rabbinic Judaism – worry.
David Greenstein serves as rabbi of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Montclair, NJ. He is the author of Roads to Utopia: The Walking Stories of the Zohar (Stanford University Press; forthcoming).
The opening and closing music fo...2020-10-2511 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 76 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirty First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 76.
Today is math day at Daily Daf Differently. What did the Sages know about pi? On our page they describe the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter as =3. We know of course that it is a little larger, as did the medieval talmudists.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
The opening and closing music for thi...2020-10-2409 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 75 Welcome to the Two Hundred Thirtieth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 75.
Today we’ll see an interesting example of how the Talmud was shaped by being the product of oral, not written, discourse. And we’ll see – perhaps – how the Talmud reports about the dementia of an aging sage.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros from The Epichorus album One Bead.2020-10-2307 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 74 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 74.
Rav and Shmuel disagree on whether an alley way requires multiple subsidiary courtyards before the residents are eligible to make a cooperative agreement. Shmuel takes a lenient position, but is – apparently – defeated by a combative junior student who shows him that his position violates his own interpretive rules.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
The opening and closing music...2020-10-2209 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 73 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 73.
Today we’ll study the concept of anan sahadei, or “we testify,” which means that even in the absence of specific articulation of a given person’s intention, the Sages consider it legitimate to impute a given motive to a give person, based on the presumption of what most people would do in that circumstance.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City....2020-10-2110 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 72 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 72.
There are different levels of authoritative teachings in Halakha. Sometimes, the Rabbis teach what everyone should do, as the best option. Other times we learn what is acceptable after the fact, but what should not be broadcast as the proper behavior. In today’s passage, the Talmudic sages make this distinction.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
The ope...2020-10-2009 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 71
Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 71.
Can you take possession or renounce possession of property on Shabbat? Today we will see whether one can renounce ownership of a property on Shabbat for the purpose of creating an eruv when one forgot to do so on Friday afternoon. Applying this principle to today: can a person acquire or give away property on Shabbat? Can people exchange gifts? Or would that too closely resemble a business transaction?
...2020-10-1908 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 70 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 70.
The Talmud is written in a kind of short-hand, with many points hinted at, rather than explained fully. That was even truer in the early middle ages, when the first manuscripts were even more fragmentary than they are now. Today we’ll see how the fragmentary text prompted two medieval authorities, Rashi (France, 11th century) and Rabenu Hannanel (Tunisia, 10th century) to offer diametrically opposite interpretations of our text.
This week, our st...2020-10-1811 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 69 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 69.
In the course of defining what level of observance is required to “relinquish rights” to allow others to carry, we end up wrestling with the question of whether there are certain observances that are “litmus tests” which make one a good Jew or a bad Jew.
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s...2020-10-1707 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 68 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 68.
We see the case of two rabbis who didn’t make an eruv in their neighborhood. We have a window on the question of the role of rabbis in communal life. Are there tasks that are beneath us? Or perhaps there are limitations in the roles that rabbis
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the...2020-10-1607 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 66 Welcome to the Two Hundred Twenty First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 66.
Today’s daf looks at the question of relinquishment of rights. If you lived in a courtyard and didn’t join the eruv, you might ruin it for all of the other residents, but you can save the day by relinquishing your rights. How does that work if an eruv includes more than one courtyard?
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the...2020-10-1408 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 64 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Nineteenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 64.
Is it fair to prefer one teaching over another? Is it right to say this Jewish text is more attractive than other? Anther major focus- may one drink before praying or teaching? Are there factors that might change the answer for one person or another?
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s Co...2020-10-1208 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 63 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Eighteenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 63.
On this daf, we explore the hierarchical nature of the teacher/student relationship. May a student offer an opinion in the presence of his or her master teacher, or even in the teacher’s absence?
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s Committee on Jewish Law and Standards.
The openin...2020-10-1108 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 62 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Seventeenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 62.
In this episode, we see that like a good teacher, the Gemara takes every opportunity to teach an ethical value: in this case, to be sure to honor one’s teacher!
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about the laws of capital punishment and incarceration– appears in The Observant...2020-10-1010 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 61 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Sixteenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 61.
The beginning of chapter 6 poses the challenge of living among non-Jews. How do we build an eruv if we are sharing space with people outside of the Jewish community?
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about the laws of capital punishment and incarceration– appears in The Observant Life: The Wisd...2020-10-0908 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 60 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Fifteenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 60.
Today’s episode asks the important question “What is the worst insult one can throw at a Talmudic scholar?” And answers it thusly… “This is nothing more than prophecy!”
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about the laws of capital punishment and incarceration– appears in The Observant Life: The Wisdom of Conser...2020-10-0809 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 59 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Fourteenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 59.
Using a loophole like the Eruv only works if we remember the original law in the first place! The rabbis walk a fine line between the leniencies and the stringencies. It is in that balance that religious life is to be found.
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about...2020-10-0708 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 58 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Thirteenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 58.
The rulings surrounding the Tchum Shabbat (the extended boundary in which we are permitted to travel on Shabbat) suggest a model of rabbinic leniency and expansiveness, allowing the boundaries of the community to widen.
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about the laws of capital punishment and incarceration– appears...2020-10-0610 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 57 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Twelvth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 57.
A simple idea– that a city should have a karpaf (open space) around it– shows a larger plan of the rabbis: to link our lives to our people’s history and to our desire to have God dwell among us.
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about the laws of capi...2020-10-0507 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 56 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Eleventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Abby Sosland looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 56.
The rabbis’ science can sometimes seem strange to modern readers, but it reflects an approach to the natural world which is sacred and holy.
Rabbi Abby Sosland is the Morah Ruchanit (Spiritual Advisor) for the high school at Solomon Schechter Westchester, where she teaches Talmud, Bible, Philosophy and Prayer. Her chapter “Crime and Punishment” — about the laws of capital punishment and incarceration– appears in The Observant Life: The Wisdom of Conservative Judaism for Contem...2020-10-0410 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 55 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Tenth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 55.
We return to legal material on today’s page, defining the boundary of a city as the straight edge extending from the farthest usable human habitation on each edge of the town. The page also talks about people who live “in huts” whose life – due to their poverty and deprivations – is no life at all.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
2020-10-0306 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 54 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 54.
This page is full of great rabbinic homilies about the power of Torah study, including astonishingly erotic images of the Torah, and an imagined account of how Moses and Aaron taught the Israelites in the desert.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros from The Epichorus album One Bead.2020-10-0209 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 52 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 52.
Talmudic law places a great deal of weight on a person’s intention. Merely we setting out a step or two down the stairs may be sufficient to establish the legal status that one is “on a journey. ” This will page concludes Eruvin chapter four.
This week, our study is led by Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky of Congregation Ansche Chesed in New York City.
The opening and closing music for this podcast...2020-09-3010 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 51 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 51.
The Torah commands that one “keep far from falsehood. ” Yet today’s Talmud page proposes a strange compromise with the truth: Rabbah is said to invoke a teaching from Rabbi Yossi permitting someone to rely on another to declare his or her Shabbat residence, even thought that first person does not actually know the location. The only problem: according to our page, the attribution of this teaching to Rabbi Yossi is actually false. Rabbah is sai...2020-09-2909 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 50 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 50.
The rules of rabbinic discourse hold that “Tannaim” – sages of the Mishnaic era, ending around 220 CE – are more authoritative than “Amoraim” – post-Mishnaic sages who appear in the Talmud, from around 220 to around 550 CE. Amoraim are not supposed to disagree with Tannaim, unless they can find other Tannaitic support. But today we see that those boundaries are not hard and fast. Rav was one of the first Amoraim, having himself studied in Palestine with Rabbi Judah the Nasi...2020-09-2810 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 49 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 49.
“Eruv” literally means that two domains are “merged.” And since the ritual of creating an eruv involves placing a quantity of food, we learn that the participants should be willing to actually share the food with their partners. Today’s page also includes the judicial principle that in Jewish society, one is not free to say “what’s mine is mine and what’s yours is yours. ” This is “the quality of Sodom, ” and courts may compel you...2020-09-2710 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 48Welcome to the Two Hundred and Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 48.
Today we return to the question of tolerance of diverse levels of observance and how hair-splitting over minutia can detract from genuine learning.
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University. Her research interest is in the development of ethical thought in rabbinic literature and contemporary Jewish thought...2020-09-2607 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 47 Welcome to the Two Hundred and Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 47.
Today we ask, do hefker (ownerless property) objects ‘acquire’ residence for Shabbat and what are the implications of the principle of ‘koneh shevita’?
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University. Her research interest is in the development of ethical thought in rabbinic literature and contemporary Jewish thought. Rabbi St...2020-09-2507 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 46 Welcome to the Two Hundred and First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 46.
In this episode we focus on the majority principle and freedom of the Sages to sometimes decide against the majority.
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University. Her research interest is in the development of ethical thought in rabbinic literature and contemporary Jewish thought. Rabbi Steyer works...2020-09-2406 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 45 Welcome to the Two Hundredth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 45.
Today we look at the discrepancy between an account told in the Mishna and in a Beraita: Maybe they tell different stories and represent different approaches to halakha?
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University. Her research interest is in the development of ethical thought in rabbinic literature and...2020-09-2307 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 44 Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 44.
In this episode we ask if people can form a “wall” to enable objects to be moved on Shabbat? And may a person leave the t’chom Shabbat to perform a mitzvah?
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University. Her research interest is in the development of ethica...2020-09-2206 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 43 Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 43.
This page shows us an example of respect for different views on the stringency of halakhic observance among the sages of the Talmud. Another question is will Messiah come on Shabbat or will he too be bound by the restrictions of movement on Shabbat?
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy...2020-09-2105 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 42 Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ute Steyer looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 42.
Today we focus on objects that were carried on Shabbat outside the t’chom Shabbat and their status depending on whether they were carried intentionally or unintentionally.
Rabbi Ute Steyer received rabbinic ordination and a M.A. in Jewish Philosophy from The Jewish Theological Seminary in 2009. She is currently a doctoral candidate in Jewish philosophy at the Hebrew University. Her research interest is in the development of ethical thought in rabbinic literature an...2020-09-2006 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 41
Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 41.
Today’s dad introduces a troubling piece of aggadah.
Rabbi Noah Bickart is currently working on a PhD in Talmud at JTS, He and his family are living in Jerusalem this year enjoying the academic culture of the National Library, Cartoons Dubbed into Hebrew, and Houmous.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros from The Epichorus album One Bead.
2020-09-1915 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 40
Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 40.
In today’s epside we discover that Jews have been arguing about saying Shehechianu for a very long time.
Rabbi Noah Bickart is currently working on a PhD in Talmud at JTS, He and his family are living in Jerusalem this year enjoying the academic culture of the National Library, Cartoons Dubbed into Hebrew, and Houmous.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros fr...2020-09-1810 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 39
Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 39.
In this episode, we ask that all important question “Is Rosh Hashanah also Rosh Hodesh?”
Rabbi Noah Bickart is currently working on a PhD in Talmud at JTS, He and his family are living in Jerusalem this year enjoying the academic culture of the National Library, Cartoons Dubbed into Hebrew, and Houmous.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros from The Epichorus album One...2020-09-1709 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 38
Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 38.
Today we see that the Ran and Ramban have very different views on how a rejected opinion of the Sages might play out with regard to pets and muksah.
Rabbi Noah Bickart is currently working on a PhD in Talmud at JTS, He and his family are living in Jerusalem this year enjoying the academic culture of the National Library, Cartoons Dubbed into Hebrew, and Houmous.
...2020-09-1609 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 37
Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 37.
Today we explore when and why is the Talmud willing to radically tamper with its sources?
Rabbi Noah Bickart is currently working on a PhD in Talmud at JTS, He and his family are living in Jerusalem this year enjoying the academic culture of the National Library, Cartoons Dubbed into Hebrew, and Houmous.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros from The Epichorus...2020-09-1511 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 36
Welcome to the Hundred and Ninety First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 36.
In this episode, we focus on a critical perspective on the construction of the Mishnah and how it helps us understand Rabbi Judah’s strange phrase.
Rabbi Noah Bickart is currently working on a PhD in Talmud at JTS, He and his family are living in Jerusalem this year enjoying the academic culture of the National Library, Cartoons Dubbed into Hebrew, and Houmous.
The opening and cl...2020-09-1411 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 35
Welcome to the Hundred and Nintieth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Noah Bickart looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 35.
According to the Rabbis, an item is either prohibited or it isn’t. You can either pick it up and use it or you can’t. We don’t have to concern ourselves with thinking about weather or not the use to which I now want to put an item is its normal one or not. But R. Eliezer and R. Nehemiah want us to think not about the ontology of object...2020-09-1306 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 34
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 34.
If the Talmudic rules about food in a deep cistern tell us anything it is this: there is a rabbinic Shabbat and a biblical Shabbat. What do we do in the space when one has begun and the other has not? What does this space tell us about the nature of Shabbat and nature of the rabbinic project?
Rabbi Ethan Linden is the rabbi of Shir Chadash Conservative...2020-09-1213 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 33
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 33.
Sometimes it is hard to see the forest for the trees, and on this daf about trees it is even hard to see the trees. A referenced debate between Rabbi Yehudah Ha-Nasi and the sages is a jumping off point for a conversation about how certain interpretations and conversations become part of the rabbinic canon.
Rabbi Ethan Linden is the rabbi of Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation in New...2020-09-1114 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 32
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 32.
Who can we trust? That is the question of this daf. If we ask someone to do something for us, can we assume it is done? Perhaps the circumstances matter, or perhaps we can always assume that people we have tasked with a mission will perform the task. Or maybe we ought not to trust too much, lest we disappointed in the result.
Rabbi Ethan Linden is the...2020-09-1010 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 31
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 31.
Have you dreamed of using your pet dromedary to deliver food to an agent who will then use that food to make an eruv for you? At some point we have all had this thought. On today’s daf, we wonder, along with the rabbis, if that sort of dream is possible. Can we? Yes we can.
Rabbi Ethan Linden is the rabbi of Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation in...2020-09-0910 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 30
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 30.
We make use of legal fictions in Judaism all the time. We sell our chametz on Passover, and we carry on Shabbat in places wherein we would usually be forbidden from doing so by means of an eruv. But maybe these legal fictions are a problem. Maybe we shouldn’t be pretending quite so much. On this daf, the debate about legal fictions breaks out, with Beit Shammai’s Washington Gene...2020-09-0809 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 29
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 29.
It can be dangerous to eat an onion. This may not seem like the greatest starting out point for a theological discussion of prayer and God’s protection, but it turns out that it is. This is why the Talmud is great.
Rabbi Ethan Linden is the rabbi of Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is the author of the (made-up) book: Tractate Mardis Gras: Ho...2020-09-0706 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 28
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Ethan Linden looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 28.
Does the fact that I like to eat paper make paper into food? If I love unripe apples does everyone else have to love them too? Do the nutty Jews of Babylonia get to decide what constitutes a valid food for an eruv? Listen in and find out!
Rabbi Ethan Linden is the rabbi of Shir Chadash Conservative Congregation in New Orleans, Louisiana. He is the author of...2020-09-0609 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 27
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 27.
The mishnah at the bottom of 26b opens with a general statement: Everything (food) may be used to establish an eruv or effect a shittuf mavo’y except for water and salt. Rishonim disagree as to what type of eruv the mishnah is referring to. For its part, the Gemara is interested—as is its wont—in probing the mishnah’s term “everything.” The Bavli sugya contains a puzzlement, which critical Talmudic ana...2020-09-0509 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 26
Welcome to the Hundred and Eighty First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 26.
The Exilarch consults a rabbi to ensure that he is permitted to carry food and other meal necessities from his house to an abvarneka (small structure with seating) in his orchard. One rabbi sets up reed fences so as to render the orchard “enclosed for residential purposes,” and thus a permitted place in which to carry freely on Shabbat, but then another took down the fences, and two other rabbis even gath...2020-09-0507 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 25
Welcome to the Hundred and Eightieth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 25.
Building a partition (mehitzah) 4 handbreadths into a karpef from a mound (tel) for residential purposes will suffice to allow carrying on Shabbat within the karpef, even if it is larger than 2 bet se’ahs. Building a mehitzah on the edge of the tel itself will also suffice; this is mehitzah al gabei mehitzah. This will not, however, suffice as a way to acquire ownerless property, as an unnamed, unfortunate woman learned from Ra...2020-09-0308 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 24
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 24.
The Gemara continues to explore issues involving the karpef, as well as the rehavah (fenced-in yard). A karpef greater in size than two bet se’ahs that was not hukaf l’dirah (enclosed for residential purposes) may still be an area within which carrying is permitted on Shabbat under certain circumstances, and a karpef that was hukaf l’dirah will not lose that status if water enters it.
Alyssa Gray...2020-09-0209 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 23
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 23.
Under what circumstances may one carry on Shabbat in a garden or a karpef? What is a karpef? Three Tannaim dispute about this; two holding that even a garden or karpef of the appropriate size must have something else before one is allowed to carry within it, and one Tanna arguing that size alone matters.
Alyssa Gray, J.D., Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Codes and Responsa Literature...2020-09-0110 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 22
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 22.
R. Yohanan says that people are not liable in the land of Israel on account of public domain; that is, they are not liable for carrying in the public domain on Shabbat. Does he mean there’s no such thing as a public domain in the land of Israel, or something less radical?
Alyssa Gray, J.D., Ph.D., is Associate Professor of Codes and Responsa Literature at Hebrew Un...2020-08-3112 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 21
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Alyssa Gray looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 21.
In an interesting aggadic passage, the Bavli compares Torah and rabbinic law, and interestingly seems to consider the observance of the latter as a more serious matter than the former. What is at stake for the Bavli is rabbinic authority to innovate law; an authority it needs to justify in order to make sense of the entire rabbinic institution of eruvin.
Alyssa Gray, J.D., Ph.D., is Associate...2020-08-3010 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 20
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 20.
The stand-out line of our final page is, “Camels are different, because their necks are long.” Our preoccupation is still with the water-well barrier, and the limits of its efficacy for people, cows and, yes, camels. This discussion is true to the overall theme of the volume—the limits on carrying, and the mechanisms available to allow Shabbat to be distinguished from other days, while still permitting the necessities of life.2020-08-2914 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 19
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 19.
We continue to study “aggadot” brought in the name of Rabbi Yirmiah ben Elazar, especially traditions about the nature of “Geihinnam” or hell. Alas, the text returns on Side B to the specifications of barriers used to surround a well in order to allow animals to drink on Shabbat.
Rabbi Danny Nevins is the dean of the JTS Division of Religious Leadership, which includes the Rabbinical School and H.L. Mil...2020-08-2811 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 18
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 18.
Chapter two of the tractate opens with a Mishnah that describes a special structure devised to allow use of a well on Shabbat. Its corner panels are called “deuomadim,” which is apparently a blending of the Greek prefix “deu-” (for two) and the Hebrew word “omdim” (for posts). This leads the Sages into a discussion of other words that use the prefix “deu-,” most famously the “two-faced” and androgynous “Adam” described in Genesis. Th...2020-08-2714 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 17
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 17.
They say that “military ethics” is an oxymoron, and our Mishnah on 17a seems to support the contention. Troops are allowed to violate both ritual and ethical norms when on a military campaign, even if there is no immediate threat to their lives. Yet ethical imperatives remain; there is no carte blanche for troops to steal, and the extraordinary obligation to attend to battlefield casualties is heavy upon them.
Ra...2020-08-2613 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 16
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventy First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 16.
Today we follow an argument between Rav Huna and Rav Pappa (which begins at the end of 15b) about the seemingly minor point of whether a barrier that has precisely the same quantity of gaps and wall is recognized as an Eruv. Rav Pappa’s supporters lose round after round of the argument, but he still carries the day. How come? In the end, his reading of the Mishnah is ju...2020-08-2510 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 15
Welcome to the Hundred and Seventieth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 15.
Today we consider the question of intent—must a “lehi” (a post used to designate the entrance to a “mavoi”) be designated for this function prior to Shabbat, or may one use any object whose design conforms to the specifications of a “lehi?” Along the way we witness some casual rabbinic magic, and learn of a life-long dispute between Rava and Abbaye.
Rabbi Danny Nevins is the dean of the JTS Divisi...2020-08-2411 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 14
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Ninth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Danny Nevins looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 14.
Welcome to the realm of rabbinic geometry. Our sages use a form of Π to describe the ratio of the circumference and diameter of a circle in discussing the possibility of a rounded transom used to demarcate the entrance to an Eruv. Perhaps the rabbis know Ptolemy, but they cite the book of Kings to prove the rule. What is the role of science in rabbinic literature? The daf ends with a...2020-08-2310 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 13
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Eighth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 13.
Is there ever more than one answer to a question? Is there a value to understanding the other side of the argument? Does being a religious person negate the possibility of dialogue, even pluralism?
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s Committee on Jewish Law and Standards.
2020-08-2210 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 12
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Seventh episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 12.
Is the Eruv creating a real physical barrier? Is it about a psychological indication that one is leaving a private area? Or is it about defining an area that constitutes a community?
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s Committee on Jewish Law and Standards.
The...2020-08-2107 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 11
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Sixith episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 11.
“Tzurat Hapetach”- the form of a doorway is an essential concept in building eruvim today. Individual side-beams and cross beams will get you only so far. A Tzurat Hapetach lets you block off large volumes of space with very little material, by having two verticals and horizontal. The verticals don’t have to touch the horizontal, but there’s a catch- they do have to be directly under it. This lea...2020-08-2010 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 10
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Fifth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 10.
On this daf, we encounter the concept of Omed Merubah al haparutz. If you have a space which has walls and gaps, at what point do we consider the walls to outnumber the gaps? Which is more significant? Is it the whole, or is it the hole?
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and ritua...2020-08-1908 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 9
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Fourth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 9.
On this daf, we look at when rabbinic measure says that something is “close enough”- Lavud– where we can consider small gaps to be closed, and chavut– where an object can be considered to be lower than it really is.
Rabbi Joshua Heller is the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Torah in Sandy Springs, and chair of the rites and rituals subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s Committee o...2020-08-1809 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 8
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Third episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 8.
We start with the question of a street that is open to a thoroughfare in front, and to a courtyard, uninhabited space, trash heap, or body of water in the back. Is water or a shore considered a physical barrier? When we set up a beam or board to mark off a street, is the key that it is a physical barrier, or is it that creates a psychological recognition.2020-08-1708 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 7
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty Second episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Rabbi Joshua Heller looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 7.
On this daf, we start with a discussion of a street shaped like a U, and how we turn it into a private space for purposes of carrying on Shabbat. Along the way, we ask when happens when you have two legal approaches, each of which gives you yes to some answers and no to others. Can you be inconsistent, and combine all the “no” answers from each approach, or the...2020-08-1608 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 6
Welcome to the Hundred and Sixty First episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Solomon Mowshowitz looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 6.
Under what circumstances do the sages rule more stringently than the halacha requires? Who are the fools who walk in darkness? When do you have to obey a heavenly voice, and when can you ignore it? This daf will help us understand.
Solomon Mowshowitz is a past Chair of the National Havurah Committee. A molecular biologist by trade, Mosh is officially retired, but still teaches a course in Immunology. at...2020-08-1508 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 5Welcome to the Hundred and Sixtieth episode of Daily Daf Differently. In this episode, Solomon Mowshowitz looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 5.
Is Jewish legal space quantized or continuous? Are two weak answers as good as one strong one? Can we be certain of anything in this world? We’ll ponder these questions and also take a closer look at two frequently used types of Talmudic argument.
Solomon Mowshowitz is a past Chair of the National Havurah Committee. A molecular biologist by trade, Mosh is officially retired, but still teaches a course in Immunology. at Columbia Un...2020-08-1409 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 4Solomon Mowshowitz looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 4.
Where do the standard measurements in Jewish Law come from? What ancient laws have no trace in the written Torah? When is a proof-text not a proof-text? (hint: When it’s an Asmachta). Learn about these and more on this daf.
Solomon Mowshowitz is a past Chair of the National Havurah Committee. A molecular biologist by trade, Mosh is officially retired, but still teaches a course in Immunology. at Columbia University.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufros from The Epichorus album One Be...2020-08-1309 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 3Solomon Mowshowitz looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 3.
Why are laws derived by pure logic considered Torahitic? Who is more trustworthy, individuals, or groups? Should the sages enforce Torahitic or Rabbinic laws more diligently? Can one hold an opinion and its opposite at the same time? These are just some of the themes touched upon on this daf.
Solomon Mowshowitz is a past Chair of the National Havurah Committee. A molecular biologist by trade, Mosh is officially retired, but still teaches a course in Immunology. at Columbia University.
The opening and closing music for...2020-08-1209 minDaily Daf Differently: Masechet EruvinEruvin, Daf 2Solomon Mowshowitz looks at Masechet Eruvin Daf 2, the first episode on Masechet Eruvin.
Why do tractates start on page 2? Why is Masechet Eruvin feared by Yeshiva students? Why does the Talmud sometimes cite passages from scripture that don’t exist? We’ll discuss all this and introduce some of the basic concepts of Eruvin.
Solomon Mowshowitz is a past Chair of the National Havurah Committee. A molecular biologist by trade, Mosh is officially retired, but still teaches a course in Immunology. at Columbia University.
The opening and closing music for this podcast is Ufro...2020-08-1111 min
You Haven't SeenYHS - Galaxy QuestDerrick once again proves himself to be unworthy of the title 'Nerd', his wife can't help but drop some bizarre trivia into the mix and Adam confesses that he didn't hate Wesley Crusher as much as everyone else. Oh yeah...we discuss Galaxy Quest, too.
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License.2013-02-1900 minYou Haven't SeenMystic RiverEven with one Robot Warrior on the bench, Derrick and Adam get to the bottom of the Mystic River. Was this Tim Robbins' best role since Tapeheads? What do Laura Linney and Apple Pie a la mode have in common? Why didn't Adam see this movie in 2003? Listen and find out!2012-09-0300 minYou Haven't SeenThe Last of the MohicansDerrick wanted to see David Mamet's Braveheart; instead he got Michael Mann'sThe Last of the Mohicans. Was it a pleasant surprise? Has Daniel Day-Lewis replaced Liam Neeson as his #1 actor? Find out in this episode of You Haven't Seen!2012-03-1400 minYou Haven't Seen4 Weddings and FuneralDo you find uncontrollable stuttering simply adorable? Do you know how to sign 'Bobby' in British Sign Language? Do you want to be the next Robot Warrior? If you answered 'Yes' to any of these questions, Netflix 4 Weddings and a Funeral and then listen to our latest episode!2011-07-3000 minYou Haven't SeenClose Encounters of the Third KindZooey Deschanel, Drew Barrymore and Teri Garr; Only one of these fine actresses was in this movie, but we discuss them all. Self-proclaimed Sci-Fi Fan, Derrick, has never seen Spielberg's first foray into Science Fiction; have you?2011-05-1700 minYou Haven't SeenOne Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (Lost)Every great show needs a lost episode; we were just hoping that it wouldn't be Episode 3. Listen to our (very) brief recap and find out why Derrick isn't qualified to be considered a fan of cinema or Science Fiction.2011-04-2600 minYou Haven't Seen8 SecondsRodeo girls, "Cowboy Up", the 90's favorite villain (James Rebhorn) and Adam's 3rd favorite Luke Perry movie; You Haven't Seen 8 Seconds? Find out if you should.2011-04-0200 minYou Haven't SeenThe Big Lebowski1998's Comedy Flop turned Cult Classic. Derrick never saw it. Find out why!2011-03-1900 min