Shows
edJEWcationOf Kings and Kvetching: The Book of Samuel, Part 2In this week’s edJEWcation bonus episode, Jay ditches Montreal, loses his tefillin (almost), and gains a crash course in the most Hamish transit option known to mankind: Hyman’s bus. We then pivot—seamlessly, obviously—from gefilte-fish-scented buses to one of the most dramatic political moments in Tanakh: the Israelites demanding a king.Why did God get so cranky about the request for a king when He literally told them they’d have one? What makes a king kosher? And does asking nicely actually matter to God—or is He just like the rest of us with a fragi...2025-07-101h 00
edJEWcationThe Birth of a Prophet: The Book of Samuel, Part 1This week on edJEWcation, we dive into the opening chapters of the Book of Samuel—because nothing says Jewish tradition like a barren woman, a holy ark, and a plague of hemorrhoids.Before we get biblical, we briefly address our deep concern over Brad Pitt's Zionism (verdict: our gut says yes) and tackle a listener question about antisemitism. Rabbi’s answer? Retreat is never the answer. Jewish pride is. And if you're not sure what you're proud of—educate yourself.Then we jump into the emotional story of Hannah, her desperate prayer, and the miraculous birth...2025-07-0457 min
edJEWcationBombs, Birthright & the Rebbe’s Air ForceThis week on edJEWcation, ChayaLeah returns from an impromptu war-zone detour with 40 Birthright students, a cruise ship, and a newfound appreciation for bomb shelters. What started as a sunny student trip to Israel turned into a harrowing 12-day ordeal as Iran launched a massive missile attack, Ben-Gurion shut down, and Birthright scrambled to evacuate thousands.We unpack her experience taking shelter from missiles in Jerusalem, fleeing to Cyprus by boat, partying awkwardly at sea, and witnessing the awe-inspiring kindness of Chabad communities in Cyprus, Germany, and beyond. Along the way, we discuss Psalms, summer camp, and the...2025-06-2650 min
edJEWcationWhere is ChayaLeah?!?!?!With ChayaLeah on her reverse Exodus from Israel and an interview that fell through this week, we are re-running our episode about the Jewish perspective on happiness from a few months ago, because we couldn't all use that right now?However, this one comes with an extended director's cut that includes Jay's commentary on current events in Israel.What more could you ask for at the moment?Enjoy and see you all next week.2025-06-191h 10
Ask a JewMother of All BombsSince Chaya Leah is lost at sea somewhere between Cyprus and Natanz, I was joined by Jewish Insider’s Lahav Harkov, formerly a senior contributing editor, diplomatic reporter and knesset Reporter for The Jerusalem Post, and of course former Ask A Jew guest. We talked Iran, Israel, Trump, Bibi, sexy war planes, and what it’s like raising a family in war. You can follow Lahav on X and sign up for her newsletter on Substack of course.If you’re a substack subscriber, you caught this live and got to ask your questions - so thank you fo...2025-06-1943 min
edJEWcationThe Book of Judges: Warts and All, Part 3This week on edJEWcation, we conclude our epic journey through the Book of Judges—and let's just say, we didn’t exactly end on a high note. Join us as we unpack two of the wildest, most uncomfortable stories you (probably) never learned in Hebrew school: the idol of Micah and the tragedy of the concubine in Givah.Along the way, we uncover shocking details like why Moses’ own grandson ends up running an idol-worshipping pop-up shul and how Israel’s first civil war unfolded in the most disastrous fashion imaginable. (Spoiler: cutting people into pieces is involved...2025-06-1259 min
edJEWcationThe Book of Judges: Warts and All, Part 2This week on edJEWcation, Jay, ChayaLeah, and the Rabbi dive deeper into the Book of Judges — and let's just say, things get complicated. From Gideon’s 300 hand-picked warriors (yes, it involves water-drinking techniques) to Yiftach’s infamous vow and the tragic fate of his daughter, we unpack the highs, the lows, and the downright puzzling. Plus, we tackle the legendary strongman Shimshon (Samson) — a one-man wrecking crew with a weakness for bad relationships and very good hair.Expect theological debates, unexpected Game of Thrones references, and a reminder that even the mightiest heroes are sometimes their own worst en...2025-06-0656 min
edJEWcationThe Book of Judges: Warts & All, Part 1This week on edJEWcation, we dive headfirst into one of the messiest, bloodiest, most binge-worthy books of the Bible — Judges. It’s like Game of Thrones, if Game of Thrones had more sand, tent pegs, and spiritual backsliding.Join the Rabbi, ChayaLeah, and Jayas as they unpack the chaotic post-Joshua era where tribal leaders ruled — part military commander, part prophet, part "please stop worshipping idols for the love of God" counselor. We explore:🌀 The addictive allure of idolatry (spoiler: ancient people may have been worshipping their version of an iPhone)👑 Why this book proves the Bible wa...2025-05-2958 min
edJEWcationCorrecting History: The Noble Work of Operation BenjaminJay shares the most tragic fact of his birthday (spoiler: it involves Candace Owens), and then we welcome back our most honored recurring guest: Shalom Lamm, the mensch behind Operation Benjamin.From Normandy to Arlington, Italy to Jerusalem, Shalom walks us through the sacred mission of correcting history — one headstone at a time. We talk about:🪖 How a Jewish soldier ended up in a German mass grave… and how Shalom found him🌟 The 102-year-old niece who stole the show (and our hearts) at Arlington🕊️ What it means to say Kaddish for someone who waited 80 years...2025-05-2249 min
edJEWcationJoshua: Courage, Conquest, and the Original Imposter SyndromeThis week on edJEWcation, we crack open the Book of Joshua — swords, spies, shofars, and all — to kick off our brand-new series on the books of the Hebrew Bible beyond the Torah.Jay, ChayaLeah, and the Rabbi break down how Joshua, Moses’ humble sidekick-turned-general, led the Israelites into the land of Israel with nothing but faith, grit, and some serious divine backup. From the walls of Jericho crumbling to the sun standing still mid-battle, Joshua’s story isn’t just ancient history — it’s a masterclass in courage, community, and the art of not messing up the inheritance pa...2025-05-151h 01
edJEWcationThe Head Jew, the Tail Jew, and the Future of It AllThis week on edJEWcation, we sit down with Jay Sanderson — former CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, professional disruptor, accidental chef, and self-described “tail Jew” — to unpack the past, present, and precarious future of Jewish life in America.From a near-death experience as a teen to a life-changing blessing from David Ben-Gurion, Jay takes us on a journey through his unexpected path to Jewish leadership. We tackle everything from gefilte fish trauma to why Hollywood still can’t figure out TikTok — and why that matters for the Jewish community.Jay’s latest project, the 2...2025-05-081h 09
edJEWcationedJEWcation Book Club: The Screwtape LettersIn this soul-poking, faith-fueled, wildly entertaining episode of edJEWcation, we dive deep into C.S. Lewis’s The Screwtape Letters—that brilliantly British, devilishly clever tale of temptation and bureaucracy in Hell (which could be confused with your last Zoom meeting).Jay returns from Passover in full carb-rebound mode, ChayaLeah defends the honor of Jewish moms everywhere, and Dan—our resident Christian theologian—joins the pod to confess his love for Lewis, loathe for Narnia, and struggles with joy, forgiveness, and judgment (so basically, Tuesday).Whether you’re a Jew, a Christian, an atheist with literary t...2025-05-011h 10
edJEWcationRabbi Sacks 101 with Dr. Tanya WhiteWhile ChayaLeah was literally wrapping her kitchen in tin foil to survive Pesach, we invited Dr. Tanya White, a Senior lecturer at Matan Women’s Institute for Torah Studies and lecturer in Jewish Philosophy at Bar Ilan University, to join us to discuss the philosophy of the world-renowned Rabbi Jonathan Sacks and her podcast, Books & Beyond, which discusses some of his most prominent works.Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks Explained. Why the late Chief Rabbi can be quoted in a Chabad farbrengen, a Reform sermon, and a Hartman colloquium—sometimes on the same Shabbat.Fate → Faith → Fridge C...2025-04-241h 10
edJEWcationedJEWcation Rewind: Seder Right WordsAs promised earlier in the week, here is the edJEWcation Rewind of our second Passover episode from last year.If you’ve made it this far without the Chametz, it’s all downhill from here!Talk to you all next week!------------------------------------------------------------Chag Sameach everyone! We were so excited about our first Passover episode we decided to do it again!We start out this episode answering a few listener questions like what are some good books about Israel and Judaism, go further into the matchmaking marriage process Chabad uses to m...2025-04-171h 28
edJEWcationedJEWcation Rewind: Don't Passover This EpisodeSince this is such a hectic time for the Perelmuter/Sufrin family (and of course I mean for the Rabbi…ChayaLeah gets to just lounge around this time of year), I’ve decided to do the kind thing and give them the week off. But so as not to leave our devout listeners with nothing to tide them over until next week, and since our listenership has also grown substantially since last Pesach (I guess people really like me), we decided to do an edJEWcation Rewind and repost our two Passover episodes from last year.Enjo...2025-04-151h 14
edJEWcationSecular Schools, Jewish KidsWe’re back — and we’ve got feelings. Well, one of us does. Right out the gate, the Rabbi had to get something off his chest. Apparently, he’s been “dumped.” And by that, he means he wasn’t in a couple of episodes. (No actual dumping occurred. No hearts were broken. Unless you count his.)So, naturally, we spent the first few minutes of this week’s episode addressing The Great Podcast Snub of 2025.To paraphrase: Without me, it’s just not the same, he said. And according to a definitely real and not made-up person on...2025-04-101h 03
Ask a JewPut your enemies on a sheet cake - with Rabbi Gavriel BellinoThis week in honor of Passover, we welcome the coolest Rabbi I know (after Chaya Leah’s father of edJEWcation), Rabbi Gavriel Bellino of NYC’s 6th street shul.There are tons of photos, videos and musing that go with this episode from my visit to Israel. please check them out on substack at askajew.substack.com and/or on Instagram @askajewpod.If you live in NYC you should absolutely visit 6th Street Shul (yes, this is Yael!) Its super welcoming and lowkey, and they throw some great parties. They also have the best Instagram acco...2025-04-081h 20
edJEWcationA Second Passover HelpingIt occurred to us that Passover will be the first holiday we have covered twice during the podcast, so we had to come up with a new angle for discussion this year (the two Passover episodes we did last year are below).So, this year, we decided to delve into how the concept of freedom is discussed in the Bible. First, Jay discusses a funny encounter he had in the airport during his recent business trip. We discuss the nuances of free speech in the context of Jewish values and contemporary issues and explore various...2025-04-041h 03
edJEWcationThe Accidental TalmudistThis week, we welcome Sal Litvak to the show…better known as the Accidental Talmudist.In the first part of this conversation, Sal shares his unique Jewish journey, from his immigrant roots in Chile to his spiritual seeking and eventual reconnection with Judaism through the Talmud. He discusses the impact of personal loss, the rediscovery of his faith, and his commitment to teaching and sharing Jewish wisdom with a diverse audience. We explore the complexities of Jewish learning, the journey towards religious observance, and the tools available for studying Talmud. We th...2025-03-271h 24
edJEWcationThe Myth of Judeo-BolshevismHave you noticed the large number of internet trolls who are “just discovering” things recently? Or have uncovered secret truths that “you aren’t allowed to talk about?” If you have, you’ve probably seen one of the “just discovered” things that “they aren’t allowed to talk about” is that Communism was actually a secret Jewish cabal led by the likes of Karl Marx (who was Jewish) and Joeseph Stalin (who was not).Is there any truth to this? To find answers, we interviewed Paul Hanebrink, Professor of History at Rutgers University to discuss his book A Spectre Haunting Eur...2025-03-201h 08
edJEWcationThe Whole Megillah: It's time for PurimDo you like Halloween? Do you like Jews? Well, then you’ll love Purim.In this conversation, we explore the significance of Purim through its historical narrative in the Book of Esther, the key characters, and the holiday’s customs.ChayaLeah and the Rabbi reflect on their personal experiences with the holiday (probably involving drinking too much) and the evolution of Purim traditions over the years. We discuss why we drink so much on the holiday (only if you’re over 21, of course), the significance of costumes and masks, the ever-present groggers, and its modern equiva...2025-03-131h 04
edJEWcationWe're in a Tal-MoodIf you spend time on X/Twitter (which I would never waste my time doing), you’ve probably seen a bunch of internet morons talking about how “they’ve read the Talmud and here’s this horrendous thing it says.” Today, we discuss why they are full of nonsense (this is family programming).But first, we begin discussing a recent Pew Research poll that shows that the decades-long slimming of American religious affiliation may have seen a stemming of the tide, especially among younger people. I asked the rabbi if he had seen this among the Chosen People.2025-03-051h 06
edJEWcationThe Need for JusticeThis week's episode was a high-wire act. What I thought would be a slight aside to kick things off ended up being the entire episode. You never know what those crazy Jews are going to do…We start discussing what I thought was a profound insight from this week's parsha (don’t mind if I do!), Exodus 22:21-23 if you want to read along, which led us to a broader discussion about the importance of justice in Jewish law.We had absolutely nothing planned for this episode, so what you hear is 100% off the cuff. 2025-02-2653 min
edJEWcationJudaism and AbortionOh boy. Here we go…This week we decided to tackle the oh-so-non-controversial, milquetoast, mundane topic of the big A. No, the A does not stand for Alcoholism, Agamemnon, or Adult Diapers. It stands for Abortion.We’ve batted around discussing it for a while now and decided to avoid it (for probably obvious reasons). However, the great Kat Rosenfield wrote an article for The Free Press last week, which hit me like an AK-47 round right in the feels and made the time seem right to touch the seven million-degree stove.In...2025-02-201h 11
edJEWcationedJEWcation Book Club: FrankensteinThis week, we present to you all the second installment of the edJEWcation book club. This month, we discuss Mary Shelley’s classicFrankenstein.When I first suggested this book for the book club, ChayaLeah and the Rabbi looked at me as if I had two heads (each with a yarmulka on). However, after reading it, I think they came around. The book deals with several profound human questions, each of which Judaism has something to say about (but of course).During the discussion, we examine several of the book's primary themes: the need for community, th...2025-02-131h 14
edJEWcationHappiness: A Jewish PerspectiveAfter a few weeks of intense conversations, we decided to lighten it up a bit and talk about happiness and what’s so great about it, both generally and in the Jewish context.
In this conversation, we discuss the importance of a joyful home and delve into the emotional nature of happiness and gratitude. We discuss the teachings of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov and the importance of joy in spiritual practice while also addressing the distinction between true and false happiness.
We discuss the interplay between optimism and pessimism, the importance of resilience in facing li...2025-02-051h 05
edJEWcationWashington, Shakespeare and the JewsIn this episode, we cover a lot of ground with our guest and true Renaissance woman, Sarah Skwire.
We originally invited Sarah to discuss an article she wrote about the significance of George Washington's letter to the Hebrew congregation in Newport, Rhode Island.
During that portion of the discussion, we explore the letter’s historical context, Washington’s deft usage of language in the letter, Rhode Island’s unique role in religious toleration in America, and the impact of this letter on Jewish communities in the country.
However, as Sarah has a PhD in Eng...2025-01-291h 05
edJEWcationEuthanasia: A Jewish PerspectiveWith the growth of the number of countries legalizing euthanasia to various degrees, we thought it would be a good topic to discuss this week. You know, why not hit on another lighthearted topic, amiright?
In our conversation, we discuss the importance of life in Judaism, the moral dilemmas surrounding euthanasia, and the role of rabbis in guiding families through end-of-life decisions. We touch on the intersection of euthanasia and healthcare systems, if Judaism seems to have a difference between suicide and euthanasia, and discuss concerns around the implications of state-sponsored euthanasia in countries with socialized medicine.2025-01-2259 min
edJEWcationDivorce: A Jewish PerspectiveWhen ChayaLeah said she wanted to discuss “the big d,” I thought she meant delis, which got me excited because I can actually add something to that discussion.
Alas, it was not to be. Apparently she meant divorce, which depressed me on several levels.
Anyway, in this conversation, we start by discussing the impact of the horrendous California fires on the Jewish community, emphasizing the importance of support and charity.
Then, we transition into a deep exploration of marriage and divorce within Judaism, referencing biblical texts and rabbinical interpretations. We highlight the sanctity of m...2025-01-161h 11
edJEWcationCharity: A Jewish PerspectiveWelcome back for another edJEWcation discussion. This week, we’re talking Tzedakah (or charity, for everyone who didn’t attend Hebrew school).
In this conversation, we explore:
The significance of charity in Judaism,
Personal stories of giving
The Torah’s perspective on charitable obligations
The impact of charity on individuals and communities
The historical context of philanthropic practices in Jewish communities
Maimonides Eight (8) Levels of Charity
Why small, daily acts of charity are better than less frequent, larger acts (even though you’re a mensch for both)
The impact of giving beyond monetary contributions
Li...2025-01-081h 02
edJEWcationCapital Punishment: A Jewish PerspectiveOn this episode, we discuss the Jewish perspective on capital punishment. The discussion includes:
A discussion about current events, including the recent horrific murder on the New York subway
Contrasting the Jewish religious perspective with American justice.
The role of justice in society and the biblical foundations of punishment.
The importance of objective morality and the challenges of ensuring justice.
The complexities of capital punishment, exploring its historical context, contemporary views, and mental health implications on criminal responsibility.
The balance of accountability, and the societal expectations surrounding...2025-01-0257 min
edJEWcationChanukah Starts With a CHToday, we discuss the holiday where the Jews try to go head-to-head with the Christians…Chanukah.
During our discussion, we cover:
The intersection of humor, joy, and historical context within Jewish culture, particularly focusing on the significance of Chanukah.
The importance of humor in Jewish identity, the complexities of Jewish joy, and the historical events surrounding Chanukah, including the Maccabees' resistance against Hellenization.
The miracles of Chanukah, the time's political landscape, and the Hasmoneans' legacy.
The rich traditions and cultural significance of Chanukah.
The importance of the me...2024-12-2651 min
edJEWcationedJEWcation Book Club: The Sunflower by Simon WiesenthalWelcome to the seminal edition of the edJEWcation book club. To usher in the monthly event, we read The Sunflower by Simon Wiesenthal.
During our wide-ranging discussion, we discuss:
Some of the most impactful (both positively and negatively) responses to Wiesenthal’s conundrum
The complexities of forgiveness, discussing various perspectives on the moral implications of granting forgiveness to those who have committed heinous acts
How to navigate ethical questions in a world filled with pain and suffering
The moral dilemmas faced by individuals in extreme situations
The cu...2024-12-181h 02
edJEWcationIf We Can, We MustIn this conversation, we explore the complex topic of redeeming captives from a biblical perspective. We discuss:
The emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by families of hostages,
Historical precedents in Jewish law, and the teachings of Maimonides.
The implications of valuing captives, gender differences in redemption, and the broader societal impacts of these practices.
Ethical considerations surrounding ransom payments for hostages, particularly in the context of Jewish law and the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The tension between individual needs and community welfare, historical precedents of kidnapping, and the implications of...2024-12-121h 05
edJEWcationClub Z Is-RealOn this episode, we trade a Polish Jew (the Rabbi) for a Russian Jew, Masha Merkulova. Masha is the founder and Executive Director of Club Z. Club Z’s mission is to create a student network of educated and articulate activists who are committed to Zionism and advocate for themselves, Israel, and the Jewish people.
During the episode, we discuss:
Masha’s upbringing in the Soviet Union
Her revelation that she was Jewish when she turned 16
Her early individual activism
The deficiencies within both Jewish homes and formalized Jewish educ...2024-12-041h 00
edJEWcationA Homecoming - The Perelmuters in PolandThis week on edJEWcation we do something a but different, we discuss the vacation the Rabbi and ChayaLeah took. Ok, that may be underselling it a bit.
In World War Two, roughly 90% of the 3 million Jews living in Poland at the time were murdered…the Rabbi is a child of two of those survivors. To commemorate their family and all the deceased Polish Jews, the Perelmuter family organized a family trip back to Poland to visit the places where they died and lived.
On this episode we discuss:
...2024-11-271h 20
edJEWcationWe Baal Shem Tov-Ya So!
This week, we talk about the founder of the Hasidic movement…the life and legacy of the Baal Shem Tov. We discuss:
His early life and spiritual awakening
The impact he had on Jewish spirituality
Early opposition to the Hasidic movement
The distinct customs, modes of prayer, and the joy that Hasidism brought to the Jewish people during a time of despair.
The challenges of faith and the importance of earnestness in one's spiritual journey
The Baal Shem Tov’s emphasis on the importance of unit...2024-11-141h 12
edJEWcationRambamWelcome back (In the Welcome Back Cotter melody…am I dating myself?). After a looooooooong holiday period, we are finally recording a new episode for the first time in a month. And do we have a barn burner for you!!!!!
But first, here are a couple of quick updates about the show:
When we started the show, we began by splitting the episodes into cultural topics and Parsha discussion, but in case you haven't noticed, we only get to the Parsha about 50% of the time. So, to rectify that, we will start recording two episodes ea...2024-11-0758 min
Ask a JewCe-le-brate Good Strikes, Come On!Bonjour from Paris! (Bonjour means “hello” in French). Miss us? We missed you, each other, and the sound of our own voices. That maybe explains the fact that neither of us could shut up on this one, in fact we almost forgot we were recording and maybe went a little more vulnerable than expected (people like that stuff, right?). In this episode, we catch up about the holidays, Iran, the beef between Johnny Depp and Rabbi Sufrin, and of course our election ambivalence. There's lots more on Substack for you to read, and you can comment and chat there as w...2024-10-301h 20edJEWcationDon't Dance on GravesThis is a short episode based on a substack post I made last week about the IDF's killing of Yahya Sinwar and what our response should be.
If you don't subscribe to our Substack you can find the post here - https://edjewcationpod.substack.com/p/dont-dance-on-graves
And you can find a link to the X post I reference here - https://x.com/amjadt25/status/1847199234828693879
We'll be back soon with full episodes after the holidays, so be on the lookout for those.
2024-10-2506 minedJEWcationDon't be a SukkahHave you ever seen a Jew build a house? Unlikely. The closest we get is during the Sukkot holiday. That alone makes the holiday notable, but there are other reasons we should pay attention to the holiday, and we will discuss all of those in this episode, along with a bonus discussion about Simchat Torah.
In this episode, we’ll get into-
The origins and traditions of Sukkot
The significance of the Sukkah and its customs
Family traditions and modern adaptations
The Four Species: symbolism and me...2024-10-161h 03edJEWcationWin One for the KippurAlright all you sinners…this one’s for you. This episode is everything you ever wanted to know about how to get back in Hashem’s good graces. You know it, you love it…it’s Yom Kippur.
On this episode we discuss:
Yom Kippur is often misunderstood as a heavy holiday, but it is fundamentally hopeful.
The day is an opportunity for new beginnings and letting go of past baggage.
Fasting on Yom Kippur is a form of sacrifice that strengthens resolve.
Kol Nidre serves as a technical prayer to...2024-10-101h 14edJEWcationOctober 7thThis week, we reflect on the October 7th massacre from both a personal and religious perspective. We discuss:
How October 7th changed us personally and affected our Jewish identity.
The idea of collective grief
The rise of domestic antisemitism in the immediate aftermath and the year since
Unity among the Jewish community
How education needs to be reevaluated
Theological questions about suffering and God's intentions
Resilience in Jewish life
The need to take action and not succumb to despair
The importance...2024-10-061h 03edJEWcationHappy Jew YearWe’re coming up to the busiest Jew time of the year and it all starts with Rosh Hashana, so this week, we’ll give you all a primer on the holiday.
We’ll talk about-
The importance of food in Jewish culture
Understanding Rosh Hashanah and Attending Synagogue
Overcoming Intimidation and Finding Meaning in Synagogue Services
Reflection and Personal Growth during Rosh Hashanah
A Time for Reflection and Self-Improvement
The Difference Between the Jewish New Year and the Secular New Year
The Signif...2024-09-251h 06edJEWcationForgive Us, PleaseIn this episode, we talk about…a month. No, that’s not the episode's length; that is its topic. Specifically, the month of Elul (I know, I know…trust me, the episode is much more interesting than it sounds).
We discuss:
Elul’s significance as a time for reflection before Rosh Hashana
The month’s biblical origins
What does the “King in the Field” have to do with Elul
The importance of the concept of אני לדודי ודודי לי, or I am my Beloved’s and my Beloved is mine
Personal struggles with spiritual practi...2024-09-1944 minedJEWcationJewish SectsIn this episode of the Edjewcation Podcast, the hosts tackle an eclectic mix of topics, from their chaotic recording schedule (who needs sleep anyway?) to basking in some much-needed listener love. They even dip their toes into controversy, dissecting a wild interview from Tucker Carlson's show (because why not stir the pot a little?).
The spotlight, however, is on the Rabbi’s deep dive into the history of Jewish sects—because nothing says fun like a walk through ancient Jewish drama. He breaks down the squabbles of the Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes, and Karaites, who all had their own “unique” takes on Jewis...2024-09-131h 01edJEWcationMartyrMade A Slander- A Jewish Response to Darryl CooperFor those of you who are not of the "very online" set, Tucker Carlson interviewed Darryl Cooper, also known as MartyrMade, on his show this week. The interview set off a firestorm because of Cooper's, let's be generous and say poorly informed World War 2 opinions.
After that, some old tweets emerged in which he made some quite disparaging remarks about Judaism and its relationship to Christianity.
We discussed one of those tweets during our weekly recording this week, but rather than waiting for the entire episode to come out...2024-09-0717 minedJEWcationChayaleah, the False ProphetCertain dimwitted fools (given this is a family show, that’s the best descriptor I can give) on the internet have been making claims about Judaism based on the preachings of a small group of zealots known as False Prophets. In today’s episode, we will discuss the two most famous members of the group, Sabbatai Zevi and Jacob Frank.
We’ll discuss:
The concept of prophets in Judaism
What distinguishes a true prophet from a false one
The biographies of Sabbatai Zevi and Jacob Frank
The allure of False Prophets
The state Jewry at the time w...2024-09-041h 08edJEWcationKaballahersWith all the online anti-semitism and Jewish conspiracy theories in the dark corners of the internet (thanks, Candace Owens), we decided to take one of the issues head-on and discuss the concept of Kabbalah and its core teachings.
Including:
The history of Kabbalah, its mystical nature, its relationship with traditional Judaism, and the Zohar
The blurred line between Kabbalistic practices and halakhic (legal) practices, as well as the misconceptions and commercialization of Kabbalah in popular culture.
How Kabbalah offers a deeper understanding of the spiritual world and our connection to God.2024-08-291h 13edJEWcationChallah at the LadiesGet ready for a fun and insightful episode of edJewcation! This time, we're diving into the world of mitzvahs (commandments) that are all about women power. From the perfect challah to lighting Shabbos candles without burning down the house, and navigating the delicate waters of family purity—we’ve got you covered. The hosts sprinkle in some history, a dash of modern-day practices, and plenty of laughs as they highlight the spiritual significance behind these traditions. Just wait for the tense exchange between ChayaLeah and her Dad, whose side are you on?
But wait, ther...2024-08-221h 12edJEWcationThis Episode is TerribleMost internet influencers acquire an audience by emoting more positivity in a single Insta post than the average person can conjure in a week…but on edJEWcation, that’s not how we roll, thus the title of this week's episode, where we will discuss two supremely depressing topics.
For the first topic, we discuss the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar, the three weeks and the holiday of Tisha B’av (which happens to be the day this episode is released). This is an annual mourning period during which Jews mourn the destruction of the...2024-08-131h 08edJEWcationA Kindness that Can't Be Repaid - An Interview with Shalom Lamm from Operation BenjaminAnd now for something a little bit different…
On this episode, we are thrilled to welcome our first guest to edJEWcation, when ChayaLeah and Jay trade in the Rabbi for the Chief Historian of Operation Benjamin, Shalom Lamm.
Operation Benjamin is an organization that ensures Jewish soldiers who were killed in World Wars One and Two but improperly buried are given the Jewish burial they deserve. This may seem easy, but as you will discover, it is anything but.
You may remember that a few episodes ago, we discussed this article from the NY...2024-08-011h 01edJEWcationThe Binding of IsaacSince we have been neglecting the parsha recently, we decided to spend this week focusing on one of the essential stories of the Old Testament, The Binding of Isaac.
In this episode, we explore:
Different interpretations and perspectives on the story, including the idea that Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son was a test of his faith and the belief that G-d wanted Abraham to say no to the command.
The significance of the sacrifice's location and Isaac's age during the event.
The moral implications of the story and the challenges...2024-07-251h 06edJEWcationMitzvah-havenWith ChayaLeah fresh off her trip to Florida, where the Hassdim enjoyed an outdoor wedding in 900-degree weather, with wool coats on, the gang comes back together to finish their discussion on the Rebbe by talking about his ten Mitzvah campaign.
The purpose of the campaign was to inspire less observant Jews to partake in some of the 613 Jewish mitzvahs
The ten mitzvah’s of the Rebbe’s campaign are:
Lighting Shabbat Candles
Wearing Teffilin
Hanging Mezuzah’s
Studying Torah
Giving Tzedakah
Owning Jewish...2024-07-171h 21edJEWcationA Real TzadikThis episode is a special tribute to the Chabad Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, on the 30th anniversary of his passing.
Along with discussing his biography and leadership of the Chabad movement, we discuss some of the key elements of the Rebbe’s philosophy, such as being of service to others, the need to fulfill one’s purpose in life, not succumbing to self-pity, the benefit of placing oneself in uncomfortable situations, the urgency of the current moment, his deep belief in G-d and the Torah, and his embrace of all Jews, no matter how religious.
Th...2024-07-111h 23edJEWcationA Lot More About SodomWelcome to a special episode of "Edjewcation," where we're diving into Jewish traditions like we're on a spiritual scavenger hunt!
First up, the "shul." What's the deal with shuls? Are they more than just where your Bubbe goes to schmooze? We'll unravel their historical secrets and discover why they're the ultimate hangout spot for Jewish life, gossip included.
Ever wondered about the cantor's role? Are they the divas of the synagogue, or just really, really good at belting out prayers? We'll uncover the truth behind their melodic magic and why they're the MVPs of the prayer service.
And speaking of...2024-07-041h 12edJEWcationShabbat Should be A Challah DayEven most non-Yids know that Shabbat is the day of rest, but did you know there are 39 categories of work that are prohibited on the Sabbath? If not, you better listen to this episode where we discuss some of them, or you’ll just go on sinning every Sabbath and be none-the-wiser.
We’ll talk about the benefits of Shabbat in the reconnecting with family and community, the history and significance of lighting the Shabbat candles, the Saturday evening Havdalah service which closes out the Sabbath, and many other questions around the commandment and poignancy of celebrating the...2024-06-271h 16edJEWcationChewin' the Cud, Jewish Flamethrowers, and Geriatric PregnanciesHere's the description - When most goys think of being Jewish, they think the little hats, eight crazy nights, and no cheeseburgers; well it's that last thing we're talking about today…kosher.
But first, we'll do something we rarely do…cover a recent event. We'll discuss a New York Post story about a Jewish World War 2 soldier who was lost behind enemy lines only to have been discovered two years ago buried in a mass grave with Nazi soldiers and the efforts undertaken to give him a proper burial.
NY P...2024-06-201h 07edJEWcationShavuot and Shavu-inWelcome back to edJEWcation! On this week’s episode, we start by discussing a couple of potential business ideas: Could there be a “Chabad-mode” for AI that would allow Jews who are Shomer Shabbos to use it during the weekly day of rest? Or a “Fred Flintstone-mode” for Uber so observant Jews can use it during the holiday?
Then we get into the meat of our discussion (no dairy, though; this is a thoroughly kosher podcast): the holiday of Shavuot (which is going on in the US right now), which commemorates the Jewish people receiving the Torah from G-d 3...2024-06-131h 14edJEWcationLox'd UpOn this week's edJEWCation we talk about jail.
The Rabbi talks about why Chabad spends time there, why he goes, the ethical and moral implications of punishment, how the Torah attempted to deter crime, and the role of the Torah in shaping societal justice.
Then we go into our penultimate discussion of Ethics of our Fathers where we discuss Mishna's which talk about balancing wisdom with action and empathy with understanding.2024-06-061h 17edJEWcationDon't Separate from the Community (Even this Community)Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the intricate dynamics of power, politics, and purpose within Jewish history and contemporary society. We continue to explore the cautionary wisdom of Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our Sages), examining the allure and perils of proximity to authority and the impact of antisemitism on political ideologies.
Rabbi Perelmuter offers invaluable insights, from the dangers of social media distraction to the significance of embracing individual paths and fulfilling the commandments.
We get quite personal toward the end of the episode as we discuss the essence of belonging...2024-05-301h 20edJEWcationSpeak little...To Your WifeThis week’s episode of edJEWcation centers around "Pirkei Avot," also known as "Ethics of Our Fathers," a tractate of the Mishnah that offers timeless wisdom and ethical teachings from Jewish sages. Unlike other tractates focused on legalistic or ritualistic aspects of Judaism, Pirkei Avot emphasizes moral conduct, personal integrity, and communal responsibility. It comprises six chapters filled with pithy maxims and profound insights, guiding individuals on how to live righteously, cultivate good character, and interact harmoniously with others. Its teachings advocate for humility, kindness, the pursuit of knowledge, and the importance of community, making it a beloved and wi...2024-05-231h 26edJEWcationCut Rate MohelWhat does Ivanka Trump, Elizabeth Taylor, Patriots great Andre Tippet, and Sammy Davis, Jr. all have in common? That's right, they all converted to the chosen people, and that's the topic for our discussion today...conversion.
We'll talk about how things may have gone a lot more smoothly for G-d's chosen people if they had tried recruiting more, why so few people who start the conversion process end up completing it, the court that decides your Jewish fate, why Ruth converted, and why yes, if uncut men convert, they still have to get their...2024-05-161h 15edJEWcationPray You ListenOn this week’s episode of “edJEWcation” we embark on an intellectual rollercoaster as we delve into a mosaic of Jewish sagacity and humor! Ever heard of a Rabbi turned stockbroker? Well, strap in because we're diving into that tale and more! Curious about why Jews put stones on graves? Consider it cracked! And just when you thought we'd stay in the shallow end, we'll take a short aside into the ethics of war.
But wait, there's more! From the ancient annals of Jewish prayer history to the intricate mechanics of the Shema, Amidah, and Kaddish, we'll naviga...2024-05-091h 14edJEWcationWe'll Shiva-t We Can Do
You know how edJEWcation is usually a rollicking good time, with crazy stories of all things being Jewish? This episode…maybe a little less of that because on this one, we conclude our “Life of a Jew” series with how every story ends…plotz-ing.
In this episode, we’ll discuss Jewish customs around death and mourning. We’ll discuss sitting Shiva, the rituals and beliefs around burials, the Kaddish, and the Jewish perspective on the afterlife (did you know Judaism believes in reincarnation?), and we’ll close with ChayaLeah speaking about her experience visiting the site of the Nov...2024-05-021h 07edJEWcationSeder Right WordsChag Sameach everyone! We were so excited about our first Passover episode, we decided to do it again!
We start out this episode answering a few listener questions like what are some good books about Israel and Judaism, go further into the matchmaking marriage process Chabad uses to marry off their kids, and what the heck made the Rabbi want to become a Rabbi in the first place?
Then, we get into the parts of the Passover Seder we didn’t get a chance to discuss last week. Why do car detailing businesses love Passover al...2024-04-251h 27edJEWcationDon't Passover this EpisodeSing along with me… it’s the most wonderful time of the year…oh wait, wrong song, wrong holiday. However, I think most Jews would agree with the sentiment. Many OG’s (original gentiles) think that Jews’s favorite holiday is Hanukkah because of the gifts (awesome) and the gelt (disgusting), but au contraire, in our expert opinion, the titleholder and reigning champion for favorite Jewish holiday is Passover.
After all, who doesn’t like five-hour dinners where you lament the enslavement of your civilization? Sounds like the quintessential Jewish holiday to me!
But in all seriousn...2024-04-181h 13
Ask a JewA Postcard From Peaceful TimesRemember when OJ died?? That's what we were talking about a few days ago when we recorded this, and all was calm in the world. Coincidentaly this blissfully unaware episode is also number 100 for us! Thank you for that, Chaya Leah is petitioning to the Rabbis to make it a holiday as we speak (100 days of fasting? Need to workshop).We did have a lovely chat with our friend Jay of the Habibi Bros about Iran, which you can find on our Instagram, @askajewpod. Links:Follow Kim Goldman, Ron Goldman's sisterW...2024-04-171h 12edJEWcationFather of Many PodcastsAs we continue along with our life of a Jew series, we’re talking marriage today. Why we get married (why, oh, why?), why Jewish men gave up polygamy, what the marriage rituals are, what a Jewish bride and a rental car have in common, and so much more.
For the parsha portion, we finally get into talking about THE man. The Michael Jordon of Monotheism, the Shakespeare of Hashem, the Albert Einstein of Adonai…of course I’m talking about Abraham. But before he was Abraham, he was Abram, so we’ll start there.
Why was...2024-04-111h 11edJEWcationNow You're Speaking My LanguageWelcome back to edJEWcation, the podcast where we mix education with a little bit of Chutzpah! Today, we're diving into the wonderful world of Jewish education, because let's face it, nothing says smarts like a good old Torah study session.
And just like Adam Sandler in Billy Madison, we're going back to school (Jewish school, that is) and even throwing in a bar mitzvah for good measure. Because what better way to celebrate becoming a man than with a slice of challah and some awkward dancing?
But wait, there's more! In the second half of...2024-04-0455 minedJEWcationI Noah Guy With A BoatOn this week's episode of eJEWcation, we start a multi-week series explaining the life of a Jew, from birth to death, starting with the more joyous side of the timeline, birth. Rabbi Perlmutter explains why the Bible commands Jews to be "fruitful and multiply," why Jews "snip the tip" of their boys, what the career path to becoming a mohel is (in case anyone in the audience is looking for a career change), and the importance of Hebrew names.
For the parsha, we discussed G-d pressing the reset button on his Nintendo (am I...2024-03-281h 11edJEWcationCain You Listen if You're Abel?On this episode of edJEWcation the mishpokhe discuss the various branches of Judaism. Orthodox, conservative, reform, reconstructionist, the tunnelers (ok, I made that last one up). What's the difference, where'd they come from, and which one's wear tallit like a Marvel superhero cape?
Later, we discuss Cain and Abel, the worst sibling rivalry since William and Harry. We'll talk about how the story is a parable about taking responsibility for your actions, how Cain gave G-d the cold shoulder and why G-d decided it wasn't just time for Cain to plotz, but instead did something much worse to him.2024-03-211h 11edJEWcationSecond Bite at the Apple...On this episode of edJEWcation, we discuss the significance of Jewish "equipment," as Jay calls it. Why do Jewish men wear yarmulkes? What's the significance of the tassels some Jews have coming from underneath their shirts, and why the heck are mezuzah's always crooked?
In the second part of the episode, we discuss Adam and Eve, talk about how G-d created the institution of marriage (not to be confused with mental institutions), discuss delicious snake cuisine, and are reminded why Eve's timing of eating the apple was very unfortunate.2024-03-141h 06edJEWcationIn the Beginning......Welcome to edJEWcation, your weekly Jewish educational podcast to catch you up on all the things you may have missed in Hebrew school. The edJEWcation all-star team consists of Rabbi Abba Perelmuter, his daughter ChayaLeah Sufrin, and their relapsed Jewish friend, Jay Covitz.
In our inaugural episode, Jay learns the difference between the myriad number of Jewish texts, and we discuss that little thing called creation.2024-03-071h 04edJEWcationWelcome to edJEWcationHI and welcome to eJEWcation, our brand new podcast offering a weekly serving of jewish wit and wisdom! I'm your host, CL Sufrin, and each week, we'll be diving into the rich tapestry of Jewish texts and ideas. Joining me are two titans of Torah: my father, the O.G. rabbi and senior sage at Shul by the Shore, Rabbi Abba Perelmuter, and our dear friend. A self proclaimed 'relapsed Jew,' the one and only Jay Covitz.
Together, we're embarking on a fun yet enlightening journey through the pillars of Judaism. From ancient scrolls to modern-day...2024-03-0201 min