Shows
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - Receiving the Torah: Why the Angels ProtestedRabbi Aaron gives a shiur in advance of Shavuot for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2025-05-2639 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Noam Himelstein - Toward a Theological Perspective on Secular ZionismR' Noam gives a shur in advance of Yom HaAtzmaut on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2025-04-2754 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Judaism & Business: The Unique Contribution of Monetary LawRav Blau gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash. 2025-03-1847 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Dovid Silverstein - How the Rambam Dealt with the Challenge of NonobservanceRav Dovid gives a shiur as part of the 'Great Medieval Thinkers' series on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2025-02-1839 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Gavriel Singer - Insights Into Rashi: The Person and His WorksR' Gavriel gives a shiur as part of the 'Great Medieval Thinkers' series on Iluminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2025-02-1354 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - Finding You-Topia: the Joyous Journey of Self DiscoveryRabbi Aaron gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's adult virtual beit midrash.2025-02-0345 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - When Someone You Love Does Something You Hate (Rambam on Tochacha)Rav Binny gives a shiur as part of the Great Medieval Thinkers series on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2025-01-2759 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Spitting Up Milk, Demons, and the Jokes of Education: Rav Kook on AggadaRav Blau gives a shiur as part of the Strange Aggadic Stories series on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2025-01-2642 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - I Contact: The Journey of the SoulRabbi Aaron gives a shiur in the 'Strange Aggadic Stories' series on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-12-1138 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Chaim Kanterovitz - Eating Before Shacharit & Kiddush [Modern Poskim]For the first time on In the Beis, we're excited to bring you Rav Chaim Kanterovitz's Modern Poskim shiur. Rav Chaim joined our staff in Year 15 (2022-2023), and has worked since them on the Mashgichim Team alongside R' Noam and R' Nuriel.Rav Chaim has served in the Rabbinate for over twenty years in the United Kingdom and South Africa where he has led communities and educational organizations most recently as the Senior Rabbinic International Educator at Ohr Torah Stone leading the department of international Rabbinic connections. Rav Chaim has also served as the Senior Rav of...2024-12-0338 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - The Relationship Between Prayer & Torah StudyRav Blau gives a shiur as part of the tefillah series of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-12-0336 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - How to Get Our Prayers AnsweredRabbi David Aaron gives a shiur about the first bracha of the Amidah on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-11-1849 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav David Silverstein - Are Women Equally Obligated in Prayer as Men?Rav Dovid gives a shiur about tefillah for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-11-1234 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaShould Jewish Leaders Dialogue with Moderate Muslims? with Rav Yaakov NagenIs 'fundamentalist Islam' a misnomer? What Muslim voices authentically represent traditional Islam? In this episode Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Yaakov Nagen to discuss these issues as well the larger question of Jewish/Muslim interfaith dialogue.Rabbi Dr. Yakov Nagen is the head of Ohr Torah Stone’s Blickle Institute for Interfaith Dialogue and Beit Midrash for Judaism and Humanity, as well as the Executive Director of the Ohr Torah Interfaith Center. For 25 years, Rabbi Nagen served as a senior educator at Yeshivat Otniel. A prominent advocate of religion as a means for promoting peace, he...2024-11-0350 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaHow Is Learning Gemara Religiously Meaningful? A Centrist Orthodox Perspective with Rav Yitzchak BlauGemara learning dominates the Centrist Orthodox Yeshiva curriculum. Do Centrist Orthodox Yeshivot approach Gemara differently than their Chareidi counterparts? Are there varied perspectives within the world of Centrist Orthodoxy? In this podcast, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Yitzchak Blau to discuss these questions through the lens of Rav Blau's own experiences in both Chareidi and Centrist Orthodox Yeshivot.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta, the author of Fresh Fruit and Vintage Wine: The Ethics and Wisdom of the Aggada, and Tradition's associate editor. He has taught at Yeshivat Hamivtar, Yeshivat Shvilei Hatorah...2024-10-1349 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Adi Krohn - Teshuva as Process Rather than ProductRav Adi gives a shiur for the Aseret Yemei Teshuva as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-10-1151 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Dovid Silverstein - The Yabloner Rebbe and the Lessons of TeshuvaRav Dovid Silverstein gives a shiur in advance of Rosh Hashanah as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-09-3026 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Rav Hutner on Rosh HashanahRav Yitzchak Blau gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash, in advance of the Yamim Noraim.2024-09-1938 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaHow Is Learning Gemara Religiously Meaningful? A Chareidi Perspective with Rav Gavriel SingerHow should we understand the central role of the Talmud Bavli in Chareidi communities? What are the goals of the 'Ivies' of the Yeshiva World? How does intensive focus on the Gemara create a certain student and society? Rav Gavriel Singer pulls back the curtain in conversation with Rav Dovid Silverstein in the Season 3 Premiere of Tzarich Iyun.Rav Gavriel Singer, Rebbe at Yeshiva Orayta, is originally from Philadelphia and currently lives in the Sanhedriya Murchevet neighborhood of Yerushalayim with his family. He studied in various yeshivot spanning from Netiv Aryeh, Mir Yerushalayim and Kollel Ateres...2024-09-1549 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Gavriel Singer - Thoughts on the Three WeeksA shiur Rav Gavriel gave to at SIJ/Orayta in advance of the 17th of Tammuz.2024-07-2250 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - Torah: Really Getting ItRabbi David Aaron gives a shiur in preparation for Shavuot as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-06-0549 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Is Torah Study a Full-Time or Part-Time Obligation?R' Blau gives a shiur in advance of Shavuot as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-05-2838 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Noam Himelstein - Religious Zionism: Foundations & Fundamental QuestionsR' Noam gives a shiur to prepare for Yom HaZikaron and Yom HaAtzmaut as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-05-2855 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Introduction to Rav TzadokRav Blau gives a shiur in Yeshivat Chachmei Lublin in Poland during this Year 16/5784 Poland trip.2024-05-1246 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Davis - Tzafun [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-2106 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Corey - Korech [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-2104 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Adi - Motzi Matza [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-2108 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Blau - Rabban Gamliel, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1805 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Gavriel - 10 Makkot, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1813 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Judah - Arami Oved Avi, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1808 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Nuriel - Vehi Sheamda, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1806 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Chaim - The Rabbis, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1811 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi Aaron - Avadim Hayinu, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1806 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Noam - Mah Nishtanah, Maggid [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1807 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny - Yachatz [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1806 min
In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Dovid - Kadesh [Ideas for the Seder]The Orayta rebbeim present short divrei Torah on different parts of seder night in advance of Pesach 5784.2024-04-1803 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaShould We Celebrate the Downfall of Our Enemies? A Special Episode for Pesach with Rav Yitzchak BlauMany observant Jews have a seder night custom to spill out some wine from their cups during the recitation of the ten plagues. What is the source of this custom? Does it reflect a Jewish instinct to mitigate happiness when one's enemies are killed? Or, is it part of a larger story about Jewish uniqueness and particularism? In this episode Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Yitzchak Blau to discuss the origin of this custom as well the larger question of rejoicing over the downfall of one's enemies.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is Rosh Yeshiva of...2024-04-1449 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav David Silverstein - Are Jews Allowed to Celebrate the Downfall of Their Enemies?Rav Dovid gives a shiur in advance of Pesach as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-04-0336 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaIs Hamas Amalek? A Special Episode for Parshat Zachor with Rabbi Dr. Shlomo BrodyThis Shabbat, Jews across this world will read the Torah portion describing the requirement to eradicate Amalek. Does this mitzvah have any practical relevance nowadays? What about the moral challenges associated with this divine command? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody to discuss these issues through the lens of Israel's current war against Hamas.Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody is the executive director of Ematai. He previously served as the founding director of the Tikvah Overseas Student Institute and co-dean of the Tikvah Online Academy, a senior instructor at Yeshivat Hakotel...2024-03-2047 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - The Soul Meaning of PurimR' Aaron gives a shiur for Purim for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-03-1935 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Juxtaposition as a Literary Tool in Sefer BereshitRav Yitzchak Blau gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash, on February 25, 2024.2024-03-1044 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - The Winning Power of Us: Getting Ourselves Together in Trying TimeRav Aaron gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-02-1948 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav David Silverstein - Understand the Layout of the Talmudic PageRav Dovid gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-02-1139 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaWhen Even Grandparents Are Drafted with Rav Binny Freedman [Israel at War, Part 8]After serving for many years as a Company Commander in the IDF, Rav Binny Freedman has experienced himself in a new role since October 7th—‘drafted,’ as a grandparent. Like hundreds of thousands of other families, the Freedmans have been navigating the complexities of the draft on the home-front, stepping in as their children have been called up to serve. In this episode, Rav Binny joins Rav David Silverstein to discuss how the war has affected the lives of kids, spouses, and parents of reservists and understand its toll on Israeli society at large.Rabbi Binny Freedman is fou...2024-02-1152 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Dovid'l Weinberg - “To Have or to Be”: The Religious Implications of Erich Fromm’s PhilosophyRav Dovid'l gives a shiur on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-02-0559 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaWhat We Misunderstood Before October 7th with Akiva Bigman [Israel at War, Part 7]Prior to October 7th, the Israeli political and military establishment mistakenly thought that Hamas was deterred from attacking Israel. What other misconceptions lay behind Israeli thinking? How can the Israeli government rectify these errors moving forward? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by military strategist Akiva Bigman to discuss these questions and reflect on possible new paradigms for Israeli leaders to think about the war in Gaza.Akiva Bigman is the Chief Editor at Mida (Hebrew/English), an Israeli news and commentary website. He previously served as the Chief Investigative Journalist for...2024-01-281h 01In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - "Atah Kadosh"Today's learning at Yeshivat Orayta is dedicated by the Fischer family in memory of Eugene M. Fischer z”lOn the Occasion of his Yahrzeit on Tu B’shvatGrandfather of Ezra Fischer (Year 15)Aryeh, Dorit, Liat, Kyra, Nili, and Ezra Fischer2024-01-2835 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - Shabbat 33: Are We in a Different World Since October 7th?Rav Binny gives a shiur as part of the latest series, Strange Aggadic Stories, for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2024-01-141h 00
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaOctober 7th & National Teshuva with Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman [Israel at War, Part 6]Traditional Jewish theology understands that a national crisis can serve as a catalyst for collective reflection and teshuva. What can we learn from the horrors of October 7th? What national sins must be rectified moving forward? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein discusses these questions with Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman through the prism of his provocative and important article, "Is this war a divine punishment?"Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman is a professor of Bible at BarIlan University and an Associate Fellow at the Shalem Center in Jerusalem. A graduate of Princeton University, Rabbi Berman received his rabbinical...2024-01-1447 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Demons and the Satan in the AggadaRav Blau gives a shiur for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash, as part of the Strange Aggadic Stories series.2024-01-0843 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Noam Himelstein - What Is the Connection Between the Only Two Verses in the Shortest Perek of Tehillim?Rav Noam gives a shiur during Alumni Week on Tehillim 117.הַֽלְל֣וּ אֶת־יְ֭קֹוָק כָּל־גּוֹיִ֑ם שַׁ֝בְּח֗וּהוּ כָּל־הָאֻמִּֽים:כִּ֥י גָ֮בַ֤ר עָלֵ֨ינוּ׀ חַסְדּ֗וֹ וֶֽאֱמֶת־יְקֹוָ֥ק לְעוֹלָ֗ם הַֽלְלוּ־יָֽהּ:2024-01-0138 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaA Civic Vision for the Day After with JJ Sussman [Israel at War, Part 5]2023 was one of the most divisive years in Israel's history. Polarization and the debate surrounding the judicial reform lead Israel to the brink of civil war culminating in altercations on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish year. After the horrors of October 7th, however, we have seen the country unified around a shared sense of mission and purpose. How do we maintain this feeling of unity for the duration of the war and after the war's completion? How can Israelis learn to live together despite their religious and political differences? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is j...2023-12-3152 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav David Silverstein - Do Angels Understand Aramaic? The Impact of Puzzling Talmudic Statements on Halakhic DiscourseRav Dovid gives a shiur to begin the latest series, Strange Aggadic Stories, for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-12-2035 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaUltra-Orthodox Jews and their Changing Relationship with the State of Israel with Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer [Israel at War, Part 4]Israeli ultra-Orthodoxy has maintained an isolationist stance toward the general public in Israel since the State’s founding. In the aftermath of October 7th, however, segments of the ultra-Orthodox community have activated to support the war effort in unprecedented ways — including some 3,000 who have drafted into the IDF. In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Hareidi rabbi, leader, and activist Rav Yehoshua Pfeffer to discuss the evolving relationship between Hareidim and the State of Israel.Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer, a rabbi and rabbinical judge, learned under Rav Asher Arieli and Rav Asher Weiss, hold...2023-12-101h 05In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Dovid'l Weinberg - Chanukah: Greece, Copper Thighs, and the Secret of BowingRav Dovid'l Weinberg delivers a shiur in advance of Chanukah on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-12-031h 06In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaChazak V'Amatz: Divrei Chizuk from the Orayta RebbeimSix rebbeim share brief reflections and divrei chizuk on the current situation.00:00 Rav Adi Krohn07:49 Rav Moish Kornblum18:05 Rav Noam Himmelstein29:17 Rav Chaim Kanterovitz39:46 Rav Dovid'l Weinberg52:26 Rav Binny Freedman2023-11-201h 05In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - What Our Enemies Know About Us That We Must LearnRabbi Aaron shares his reflections on the deeper meaning of the current challenges Am Yisrael is facing on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-11-2042 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaAnti-Semitism, Free Speech, and the Challenge of the West with Dr. Russ Roberts [Israel at War, Part 3]In the aftermath of the horrific attack by Hamas on October 7th, anti-semitic incidents have drastically increased worldwide. How should open societies committed to the freedom of expression respond? Is limiting the rights of extremist groups the answer? Or, are there other ways to curb hate speech while maintaining commitment to the free flow of ideas? In this podcast, Rabbi David Silverstein is joined by Dr. Russ Roberts of Shalem College to discuss these issues through the prism of his important article, "The Dilemma of the West: What Is to Be Done About Jew Hatred?"Professor Russ...2023-11-1958 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaThe Ethics of War with Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody [Israel at War, Part 2]Western media often criticizes the IDF for "collective punishment" and a lack of proportionality in its military response to Hamas’s horrific attacks on October 7th. How are we supposed to respond to these accusations? What are Israel's ethical obligations regarding avoiding civilian casualties? Should the IDF endanger its soldiers' lives in order to protect civilians in Gaza? In this episode, Rabbi David Silverstein is joined by Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody to discuss these questions through the prism of his important new book, Ethics of Our Fighters: A Jewish View on War and Morality.Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Bro...2023-11-1255 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Rabbinic Authority & Personal Autonomy in the Thought of Rav HutnerRav Yitzchak Blau explores major themes in the teaching and writing of Rav Yitzchak Hutner on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-11-0734 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Sicha: Inspiration from the Current ConflictA sicha Rav Blau shared with the talmidim on Sunday, November 5th before night seder.2023-11-0611 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - Getting it Done: On the Current War Through the Prism of Avraham, Yitzchak & YaakovRav Binny shares words some insight from Israel about the current situations and fields questions about the Jewish people's path ahead on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-10-301h 01
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaHow Can Torah Sources Help Us Navigate This Difficult Time? with Rav Yitzchak Blau [Israel at War, Part 1]What Torah sources can we look to for guidance during our current crisis? How should we understand the rise in global anti-semitism and the shocking support for Hamas on some university campuses? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Yitzchak Blau to discuss these questions and offer some preliminary thoughts about the evolving situation in Israel.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta, the author of Fresh Fruit and Vintage Wine: The Ethics and Wisdom of the Aggada, and Tradition's associate editor. He has taught at Yeshivat Hamivtar, Yeshivat Shvilei Hatorah, and...2023-10-2942 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav David Silverstein - Yaakov and the Jewish People's Eternal StruggleRav David Silverstein shares messages from tales of Yaakov's trials and tribulations on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-10-1535 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - Israel at War: Divrei ChizukRav Binny shares words of strength and inspiration with the Orayta community as Israel and the Jewish people at large enter a difficult chapter.2023-10-1136 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Gavriel Singer - Strengthening Our Middah of Simcha, Even in Tough TimesRav Gavriel Singer gives a shiur on the middah of simcha to the talmidim of the Yeshiva in the days following Hamas's devastating Simchat Torah attack.2023-10-101h 07In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Two Talmudic Ba'alei TeshuvaRav Yitzchak Blau introduces us to two aggadic personalities in preparation for the Yamim Noraim on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-09-1044 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaGemara, Halakha & Chazal's Unique Conception of Law with Professor Chaim Saiman [Gemara, Part 2]What is halakha? Is it just a system of law or also a legal medium to discuss some of Judaism's most weighty religious questions? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Professor Chaim Saiman to discuss these issues through the prism of Professor Saiman's important book, Halakha: The Rabbinic Idea of Law.Professor Chaim Saiman is Professor of Law at Villanova Law School, and has served as Gruss Visiting Professor of Talmudic Law at both Harvard Law School and the University of Pennsylvania Law School, a visiting fellow at Princeton University and...2023-09-101h 04In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - Thoughts for ElulRav Binny Freedman gives a shiur over Zoom for Elul as part of Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-09-0742 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaWhy Is Gemara So Central to Orthodox Jewish Life? with Rabbi Yehuda Turetsky [Gemara, Part 1]The study of Gemara dominates the daily schedule of most yeshivot. Beyond yeshiva, Daf Yomi has become an international phenomenon with people taking time out of their daily schedules to study a page of Talmud. What is Gemara learning all about? Why is it prioritized over the study of Jewish thought or Tanakh? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rabbi Yehuda Turetsky of Yeshivat Sha'alvim to discuss these questions as well as address the different learning methodologies used to convey the profundity of Gemara learning.Rabbi Yehuda Turetsky serves as a Ram at Yeshivat...2023-08-271h 03
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaPersonal Perspectives on Divine Providence with Rav Binny Freedman [Divine Providence, Part 2]After a survey of different approaches to divine providence in the last episode, Rav Binny Freedman joins Rav David Silverstein to discuss what role theology should play in our lives. Why doesn't theology occupy a larger space in contemporary Orthodox discourse? How do we choose an approach amidst conflicting perspectives on God’s involvement in the world? Rabbi Binny Freedman is founding Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta. His proficiency in applying Jewish concepts to contemporary life in a personal and meaningful manner has made him a sought-after speaker and educator around the world. Coming to Israel as a...2023-08-0657 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaHow Much Does God Intervene in Our Daily Lives? with Rabbi Netanel Wiederblank [Divine Providence, Part 1]The question of divine providence is one of the most complex questions in Jewish thought, affecting our day-to-day experience of the world. In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rabbi Netanel Wiederblank to explore both medieval and modern approaches to understating hashgacha, God’s involvement in the world.Rabbi Netanel Wiederblank is a Maggid Shiur at Yeshiva University where he teaches college students and semikhah students Tanakh, Talmud, Halakha, and Jewish Philosophy at RIETS and MYP. He studied at the Yeshiva of Greater Washington, Kerem B’Yavne, Chevron Yeshiva (Givat Mordechai), Yeshiva Univ...2023-07-1658 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaThe Role of Gedolim in Modern Judaism with Rav Yitzchak Blau [Rabbinic Authority, Part 2]Why is the "Gadol" (great rabbinic figure) so central to many Orthodox communities? Do centrist or liberal Orthodox communities relate differently to Gedolim than their Charedi counterparts? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Yitzchak Blau to discuss these questions against the larger background of rabbinic authority in the 21st century.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta, the author of Fresh Fruit and Vintage Wine: The Ethics and Wisdom of the Aggada, and Tradition's associate editor. He has taught at Yeshivat Hamivtar, Yeshivat Shvilei Hatorah, and the Yeshivah of Flatbush and...2023-07-0251 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaRabbinic Authority and the Technological Revolution with Rav Elli Fischer [Rabbinic Authority, Part 1]How have new technologies changed people’s relationship to rabbinic authority? How have rabbis responded to these challenges? In this episode Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Elli Fischer to discuss these questions through the prism of various 21st century rabbinic leaders.Rav Elli Fischer is an independent writer, translator, and rabbi. Previously, he was the OU-JLIC rabbi and campus educator at the University of Maryland. He holds BA and MS degrees from Yeshiva University, rabbinical ordination from Israel’s Chief Rabbinate, and is working toward a doctorate in Jewish History at Tel Aviv...2023-06-181h 10In the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - Torah: Really Getting It, Really Loving ItRabbi David Aaron gives a shiur over Zoom about developing a relationship with Torah study in preparation for Shavuot on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.If you've enjoyed our podcast, please consider supporting the Yeshiva's annual scholarship campaign and help us ensure that no student in need of financial help is turned away. Thank you very much!2023-05-2141 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaMedical Ethics and the Modern State of Israel with Rabbi Dr. Shlomo BrodyIf you've enjoyed our podcast, please consider supporting the Yeshiva's annual scholarship campaign and help us ensure that no student in need of financial help is turned away. Thank you very much!Diaspora poskim are deeply divided about the halakhic status of brain stem death as the definition of halakhic death. Yet in Israel, this is arguably the one issue that unifies almost all rabbis across the ideological spectrum of Religious Zionism. In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody to discuss this issue as well as the larger challenges and opportunities o...2023-05-2149 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - The Relationship Between Torah Study & Other MitzvotRav Yitzchak Blau gives a shiur over Zoom to kick off a series of classes on Matan Torah and Torah study on Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-05-1542 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Noam Himelstein - Religious Zionism: Foundations & Fundamental QuestionsRav Noam Himelstein gives a shiur over Zoom providing a broad overview of Religious Zionism for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-05-0757 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaMysticism & Modern Jewish Life with Rav Dovid'l WeinbergWhy isn’t mysticism a more central piece of the contemporary religious experience? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Dovid’l Weinberg to explore the theological roots of Jewish mysticism and discuss mysticism’s relevance for the modern Jew.Rabbi Dovid’l Weinberg is an educator, musician, and author. A rebbe at Yeshivat Orayta in the Old City of Yerushalayim, Rav Dovid'l is the author of Birth of the Spoken Word and is currently translating Rav Kook's Oros HaTorah (the first volume, released in December, can be found here). Rav Dovid’l and his wife...2023-05-0755 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Is Zionism Dependent on Antisemitism?Rav Yitzchak Blau gives a shiur over Zoom about the historical connection between antisemitism and Zionism and its implications for modern Israel for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-04-3051 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Bar Kamtza Comes AliveRav Blau gives a short sicha before night seder on Sunday, April 23rd to the yeshiva.2023-04-2403 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Binny Freedman - When Tragedy Strikes: G-d’s Plan or Nature’s Disaster? Thoughts for Israel’s Memorial Day, Yom HaZikaronRav Binny Freedman gives a shiur over Zoom in advance of Yom HaZikaron for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-04-231h 04Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaWhat Happened to Religious Zionism? with Rav Yitzchak BlauIn the current Israeli government, a distinct form of messianic religious Zionism is prevalent. However, what are the other religious Zionist models? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Yitzchak Blau to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the competing religious Zionist ideologies.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta, the author of Fresh Fruit and Vintage Wine: The Ethics and Wisdom of the Aggada, and Tradition's associate editor. He has taught at Yeshivat Hamivtar, Yeshivat Shvilei Hatorah, and the Yeshivah of Flatbush and currently also teaches at Midreshet Lindenbaum. Rabbi Blau...2023-04-2351 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Adi Krohn - Rapid Fire Haggadah Divrei TorahRav Adi gives a shiur with divrei Torah for your seder during all-night learning on the last night of the zman.2023-03-2239 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav David Silverstein - How Did the Jews Express Their Judaism During Their Time in Egypt?Rav David Silverstein gives a shiur over Zoom in advance of Pesach for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-03-2033 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaModern Orthodoxy and the Study of Mussar with Rav Judah DardikWhy isn’t the study of Mussar a more central component of the Orthodox curriculum? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Judah Dardik to discuss his unique Mussar curriculum and how an added focus on the study of Mussar can help create a more refined religious personality.Rabbi Judah Dardik is a Sgan Rosh Yeshiva at Yeshivat Orayta, where he teaches full-time and directs Orayta's adult learning programs and missions. Before making aliyah in 2014, he completed thirteen years as the spiritual and community leader of Beth Jacob Congregation in Oakland, California. He received hi...2023-03-1956 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRabbi David Aaron - Purim: Partying Our Way Through Paradox to ParadiseRabbi David Aaron gives a shiur over Zoom in advance of Purim for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-03-0645 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaJudaism and the Future of AI with Dr. Aaron SegalWhat makes human beings unique? Does Judaism think that an AI machine can acquire a soul? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Dr. Aaron Segal of Hebrew University to discuss Judaism, consciousnesses, and the future of AI.Dr. Aaron Segal is the Michael and Bella Guggenheim Senior Lecturer in Philosophy at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His primary areas of research are metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and analytic Jewish philosophy. Segal received his PhD in philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and was an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Yeshiva U...2023-03-0557 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Mockery & AmalekRav Blau gives a shiur on Thursday, March 2 based on the first piece in Rav Hutner on Purim.2023-03-0345 minIn the Beis at Yeshivat OraytaRav Yitzchak Blau - Is Prophecy Truly a Guarantee?Rav Yitzchak Blau gives a shiur over Zoom for Illuminate, Orayta's virtual adult beit midrash.2023-02-2247 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaShould an Agnostic Jew Still Pray? with Rav Dovid'l WeinbergWhy do Jews pray? Is the prayer experience valuable only to those who have devout faith? In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Rav Dovid'l Weinberg for a discussion about the underlying philosophy of traditional Jewish prayer.Rabbi Dovid’l Weinberg is an educator, musician, and author. A rebbe at Yeshivat Orayta in the Old City of Yerushalayim, Rav Dovid'l is the author of Birth of the Spoken Word and is currently translating Rav Kook's Oros HaTorah (the first volume, released in December, can be found here). Rav Dovid’l and his wife, Rina, live in R...2023-02-1952 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaCan Postmodernism & Traditional Judaism Coexist? with Rav Levi MorrowRabbi Shimon Gershon Rosenberg (Rav Shagar) was one of the most influential Religious Zionist thinkers. In this episode, Rav David Silverstein is joined by Yeshivat Orayta alum Rav Levi Morrow to discuss Rav Shagar's unique attempt to harmonize postmodernism and traditional Judaism.Born and raised in Southern California, Rav Levi Morrow moved to Israel when he was eighteen. After studying at Yeshivat Orayta and Har Etzion, Levi received semikhah from the Shehebar Sephardic Center in the Old City of Jerusalem. He has an MA in Jewish Philosophy from Tel Aviv University, where he wrote his thesis on...2023-02-0536 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaFinding Meaning in Halakhic Details with Rav Yitzchak BlauHow are the details of halakhic life related to the Torah's larger vision for society? In this podcast, Rav David Silverstein and Rav Yitzchak Blau address this question while providing a framework for thinking about the purpose of Jewish law.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Orayta, the author of Fresh Fruit and Vintage Wine: The Ethics and Wisdom of the Aggada, and Tradition's associate editor. He has taught at Yeshivat Hamivtar, Yeshivat Shvilei Hatorah, and the Yeshivah of Flatbush and currently also teaches at Midreshet Lindenbaum. Rabbi Blau has a BA in English Literature...2023-01-2246 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaBen Shapiro and the Challenge of Jewish Ethics: A Conversation with Rabbi Dr. Tzvi SinenskyIn a provocative essay, Ben Shapiro claims that "the Torah’s worldview is most valuable precisely where there is controversy." He then accuses Orthodox leaders of an unwillingness to articulate the religious values that underlie some of Torah's most seemingly controversial laws. In this episode, Rav David Silverstein and Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Sinensky analyze Shapiro's claim and discuss some of the larger challenges of articulating the Torah's moral vision.Rabbi Sinensky's response: https://www.jewishpress.com/indepth/opinions/modern-orthodoxy-and-morality-in-response-to-ben-shapiro/2022/12/21/Ben Shapiro's article: https://www.jewishpress.com/indepth/opinions/modern-orthodoxys-moral-failure/2022/12/12/Tzvi Sinensky is Director of Ju...2023-01-0845 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaFaith & Doubt - Talking in Learning with Rav Yitzchak Blau & Rav David SilversteinEvery other month, Rav David Silverstein will host a guest in conversation about a text of their choosing. We're calling it: Talking in Learning. We hope you enjoy the second installment of this series.Rav Yitzchak Blau and Rav David Silverstein reflect on how their upbringings ground their respective worldviews, chart how their beliefs about belief have shifted over time, and discuss doubt in modernity as well as its latent potential for religious value.Questions? Feedback? Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed? Email us at o...2022-12-1847 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaFaith & Doubt - Talking in Learning with Rav Yitzchak Blau & Rav Dovid SilversteinEvery other month, Rav Dovid Silverstein will host a guest in conversation about a text of their choosing. We're calling it: Talking in Learning. We hope you enjoy the second installment of this series.Rav Yitzchak Blau and Rav Dovid Silverstein reflect on how their upbringings ground their respective worldviews, chart how their beliefs about belief have shifted over time, and discuss doubt in modernity as well as its latent potential for religious value.Questions? Feedback? Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed? Email us at oraytapodcast@gmail.com and we look forward...2022-12-1847 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaIsrael: Theocracy or Democracy? with Rav Noam Himelstein & Rav Adi KrohnIsrael's Declaration of Independence describes a nation founded on values "as envisaged by the prophets of Israel" while stopping short of any mention of democracy. What does this mean for issues of religion and state in 2022 and beyond? Rav Noam Himelstein and Rav Adi Krohn consider the history, politics, and modern day realities and discuss their visions for the future of halakha in the public sphere.Questions? Feedback? Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed? Email us at oraytapodcast@gmail.com and we look forward to "continuing the conversation." Background music from "Ashreinu"...2022-11-2738 min
Tzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaRav Kook's Orot HaTorah - Talking in Learning with Rav Dovid'l Weinberg & Rav David SilversteinThis month, we're excited to introduce an alternative format our podcast will take — another kind of 'Tzarich Iyun' discussion. We're calling it: Talking in Learning. Every other month, Rav David Silverstein will host a guest in conversation about a text of their choosing. We hope you enjoy the first installment of this series.Rav Dovid'l Weinberg and Rav David Silverstein consider the idiosyncrasies of Rav Kook's writing style and the reasons why his Torah isn't studied widely outside of Israel. Then, they open Orot HaTorah, Chapter 2 to understand Rav Kook's unique approach to "Torah l'shma" and embrace of...2022-10-2345 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaReflections on Elul with Rav David Silverstein & Rav Gavriel SingerRav David Silverstein and Rav Gavriel Singer discuss their personal preparations for the Yamim Noraim, selichot nusach preferences, teshuva reading lists, innovative simanim minhagim, and more. Questions? Feedback? Have a topic you'd like to hear discussed? Email us at oraytapodcast@gmail.com and we look forward to "continuing the conversation." Background music from "Ashreinu" by Omek HaDavar. Recorded in the Old City of Jerusalem at Yeshivat Orayta (orayta.org). 2022-09-1839 minTzarich Iyun — A Podcast from Yeshivat OraytaIntroducing Tzarich IyunIntroducing Tzarich Iyun. Stay tuned for the first episode, premiering in the coming weeks.2022-08-2201 min