Podcasts by 301 Moved Permanently

Minyan club: Suzy Levin / Yehoshua Rodriguez from 2020-06-02T10:13

In our weekly Minyan club memebrs share their stories. In this session we hear Suzy Levin and Reynaldo Yehoshua Rodriguez

Torah 115: New Midrash Toledot from 2019-11-29T14:13:20

Torah 114: Toledot Parasha Pointers from 2019-11-29T14:12:29

Torah 112: Haye Sara - Wrestling a Piece of Canaan from 2019-11-21T21:09:20

Avraham's brilliant negotiation with Hittites. Surprise, Ephron is not a greedy villain.

Torah 112A: Haye Sara - Matchmaker in Chief from 2019-11-21T21:09:11

How was Avraham's servant able to convince Rivka's family to let her go to an unknown land?

Torah 113: Haye Sara Parasha Pointers from 2019-11-21T21:09:04

Pointers and food for thought on the Parasha. Focus on the two negotiations in the Parasha. Avraham with the Hittites and his servants with Rivka's family.

Torah 116: Yitzhak and Rivka - The Early years from 2019-09-17T14:40:34

Torah 111: Akedah: Ashkenazi Perspective from 2019-08-13T12:25:18

The Akedah is one of the most challenging episodes of the Torah, if not of the whole Tanakh. the idea Dying for God has become embedded in Jewish consciousness largely because of the Akedah, but i...

Torah 109: Sodom is not about Sodomy from 2019-08-13T12:24:07

Chapter 18 in Genesis: The mysterious visitors. Why did Lot serve Matzah? What was the problem of Sodom and how is it related to the Tower of Babel?

Torah 110: Does Abraham Doubt God? from 2019-08-13T12:22:23

According to the Midrash Abraham hesitated, or even refused, to be circumcised. in this discussion we see that this interpretation was a clever campaign by the rabbis to convince their contemporari...

Torah 108: Tower of Babel, Nimrod, Abraham, and Melchizedek from 2019-08-13T12:20:17

In this episode: The Tower of Babel was an attempt at a 1984 style society. What exactly happened there? who is Nimrod? What was the origin of Abraham? The first energy war, and the mysterious King...

Torah 107: From Cain to Lemekh from 2019-08-13T12:18:09

Here we analyze the story of Cain and Abel. It is a multi-layered story which represents rifts in society and among families. Is it possible that God favored Abel in order to show us what not to do...

Torah 103: Tree of Knowledge - Cycle of Life from 2019-08-13T12:17:09

Third session of the discussion of Genesis. Here we analyze the events following the act of eating of the Forbidden Fruit, the symbolism of Gan Eden in parallel to the Mishkan and the Jewish Home, ...

Torah 102: Tree of Knowledge - Not a Sin from 2019-05-24T10:23:24

The Tree of Knowledge was not an obstacle planted on man's path to make him sin, but rather a symbolic description of the process of coming of age and discovering free will.

Torah 101: Genesis 1&2 - 2 Creation Stories from 2019-05-15T13:32:34

An analysis of the differences between the two creation stories in Bereshit. Here I offer my theory that the first story describes God's perfect world while the second describes the imperfect world...

Torah 120: Why Jacob Doesn't Cry? from 2018-12-19T20:38:59

When Jacob meets Joseph after more than 20 years of separation he does not cry. Was he really reading the Shema, as the Midrash says, or was he upset at Joseph?
In this discussion this questio...

Torah 119A: Yosef’s Journey from innocence - VaYeshev from 2018-11-30T11:06:36

Yosef starts his journey as an innocent and naive child, oblivious to the emotions of his brothers. He is betrayed by them, by Potiphar’s wife, and by the cup bearer, until he finally finds his own...

Torah 119: Apologies and dysfunctional families - VaYishlah from 2018-11-22T16:46:43

Pre- Shabbat sermon on VaYishlah. Why all families are dysfunctional and what can we learn from the non-apology of Yaacob to Esau.

Torah 118: Ladders and Deceptive Twins - VaYetze from 2018-11-16T11:21:02

What was the meaning of the ladder? Why does Jacob switch between God’s names? How we transmit subliminal messages to our children, and how Jacob misunderstood Rachel.

Torah 117: Shiur Parashat Toledot from 2018-11-09T08:22:49

Torah 112A: Shiur Parashat Haye Sara from 2018-11-02T08:43:35

What went on between Ephron and Avraham? Why was Avraham away from Sara?
We also discussed the clever manipulations of Avraham’s servant, the reason why Avraham wanted to import a bride, and ...

Torah 109A: Abraham vs. Lot - VaYera from 2018-10-26T12:06:43

Why did the rabbis say that Abraham had doubts regarding the circumcision?
Sodom and extreme capital.

Torah 131: Korah 4: Hellenized Cohanim from 2018-06-14T18:34:39

Torah 130: Korah 3: Corruption from 2018-06-14T12:22:23

Torah 129: Korah 2: Bribe and Breaching Boundaries from 2018-06-12T12:38:33

Torah 128: Korah 1: Hypocrisy from 2018-06-11T15:15:54

Torah 122: An Amazing Journey in 6 Words - 10 Command. Part II from 2018-05-18T12:26:59

The Ten Concepts form a covenant which help us make sense of the world and get the best in us.

Torah 121: Commandments, are there really ten? - part I from 2018-05-17T12:40:09

The Torah never calls the 10 Commandments by that name. Rather, they are referred to as the 10 statements or the 10 concepts. In this discussion we try to understand the overall structure of the 10...

Ruth - מגילת רות from 2018-05-14T14:58:42

Ruth - ????? ??? from 2018-05-14T14:58:42

Torah 132: Red Heifer Explained from 2018-03-09T16:17:46

The seemingly enigmatic ritual of the red heifer is actually a brilliant therapy.

Ketuvim 143: Esther 5 - Ultimate Manipulator from 2018-02-26T13:47:12

Esther pits the king and Haman against each other in the final confrontation.

Ketuvim 142: Esther 4 - I Did it My Way! from 2018-02-23T17:21:28

Ketuvim 141: Esther 3 - Haman Rises, Esther Morphs from 2018-02-23T17:20:57

Ketuvim 140: Esther 2 - From Vashti to Esther from 2018-02-23T17:20:12

Ketuvim 139: Esther 1 - Setting the Stage from 2018-02-20T13:22:55

Torah 105A: Man in Search of God and Himself from 2018-01-29T13:39:19

Who are we running away from and what are we searching for?

Torah 105B: Life of Joy and Purpose - Torah’s Secret from 2018-01-22T06:25:40

Positive psychology meets the Torah’s golden rule and social philosophy. It explains the compelling and healing power of the Torah.

Torah 116A: Yitzhak is a loving man - Toledot from 2017-11-17T13:38:03

Ketuvim 150: Nehemiah 4 - Shabbat in Biblical Times from 2017-11-14T16:03:46

In the last chapters of Nehemiah we find a surprising description of the status of Shabbat. We examine it in comparison with Jeremiah ch. 17 and Isaiah ch. 58.

Ketuvim 149: Nehemiah 3 - Covenant Reenacted from 2017-11-13T13:20:48

Chapters 9-10: Renewal of the covenant

Ketuvim 148: Nehemiah 2 - Feudalism; Oral Law from 2017-11-12T18:22:13

Ch. 5-8: Oppression by the upper class creates a situation similar to slavery. Nehemiah serves as a role model. First religious awakening gathering. Questions regarding Torah observance.

Ketuvim 147: Nehemiah 1 - Statesman and General from 2017-11-10T13:30:52

Chapters 2-4 of Nehemiah describe his clever manipulation of the king and his success in uniting the Jews and building the walls of Jerusalem.

Ketuvim 146: Ezra 3 - Assimilation from 2017-11-09T13:23:26

Ezra ch. 7-10. Ezra is authorized to travel to Israel and have judicial autonomy but is shocked to find out that there is massive assimilation.

Ketuvim 145: Ezra 2 - Adversaries Block Temple Reconstruction from 2017-11-08T13:52:10

Ezra ch. 3-6: Work starts on the Second Temple. Opposition of the neighboring nations.

Ketuvim 141: Ezra 1 - Cyrus’ Proclamation from 2017-11-05T17:43:08

Chapters 1-2 of Ezra: the return to Zion.

Ketuvim 135: Conclusion and Purpose Revealed - Qohelet IX from 2017-11-02T13:26:24

Chapter 12 concludes the book of Qohelet with a beautiful and touching poem, and with final words which reiterate the author’s understanding of our purpose in life.

Ketuvim 134: Advice and Maxims - Qohelet VIII from 2017-11-01T12:50:58

In chapters 10-11 Qohelet offers tidbits of wisdom, popular máxima, and some of his observations.

Ketuvim 133: Positivity, Abuse, and Body language - Qohelet VII from 2017-10-31T13:04:45

In chapter 8-9 Qohelet discusses emotions, body language, dealing with authority, and finally, the answer to the big question: what is my purpose in Life?

Ketuvim 132: One-in-a-Thousand Woman - Qohelet VI from 2017-10-30T14:56:20

Towards the end of chapter 7 Qohelet has harsh words for women. But it turns out it is a hidden criticism of King Solomon himself.

Ketuvim 131: Can Wisdom be Bought? - Qohelet V from 2017-10-29T13:39:55

Qohelet chapter 7: advice on wisdom, anger, long term planning and more.

Ketuvim 130: Wealth; Purpose; Vows - Qohelet IV from 2017-10-27T13:17:30

In chapters 4-7 Qohelet questions the purpose of life, encourages people to visit a mourner’s house, and contemplates the futility of wealth.

Ketuvim 129: Secret of Survival and Logotherapy - Qohelet III from 2017-10-26T12:24:52

Ketuvim 128: A Time for All; Corruption; Despair - Qohelet II from 2017-10-25T12:55:41

Chapters 2-5. The famous list of “time to” is misleading. Signaling imperfection and imbalance.

Ketuvim 127: Vanity Of Vanities - Qohelet I from 2017-10-24T13:47:51

Qohelet chapters 1-2: In the pursuit of happiness and purpose, Qohelet drags the readers into an abyss of despair.

Ketuvim 107: Job VII - Conclusion: Serve Man, Not God from 2017-10-23T12:26:01

At the conclusion of Job, Elihu disappears, Job and God have a dialog and both confess. Also comparison to Eikha-lamentations.

Ketuvim 106: Job VI - Job Lennon? Imagine There’s No Heaven from 2017-10-22T14:23:24

Job chapters 29-35: Job delivers s final statement in which the true nature of his personality and observance is revealed.
Muster man Elihu joins the conversation do deliver a revolutionary a...

Ketuvim 105: Job IV - The Quarrel Intensifies from 2017-10-20T12:57:43

Job chapters 11-28: The argument between Job and his friends intensifies, with insults thrown at each other. Job accuses God and then turns to talk of wisdom.

Ketuvim 104: Job IV - Job Accuses God of Injustice from 2017-10-19T12:21:48

Job chapters 5-10. Job replies to Eliphaz. He argues that he is innocent and that had there been an objective arbiter he would win his suit against God.

Ketuvim 103: Job III - Job the Heretic and His Unfriendly Friends from 2017-10-18T12:18:49

Job 2:11-5:1: Job reveals his true belief. His friend Eliphaz offers consolation that is not very helpful.

Ketuvim 102: Job II: The instigator - God or Satan? from 2017-10-17T12:28:48

Job 1:6-2:10. Job is afflicted. God and Satan fight over him. His wife turns out to be a heretic.

Ketuvim 101: Job I - Divine Justice questioned from 2017-10-16T12:28:09

Job 1:1-5: introduction to the book. The question of theodicy. Was Iyyov real?

Jewish Law 128: Was R Karo the Chief Rabbi? from 2017-07-04T13:33:25

Was R Karo the chief rabbi מרא דאתרא of Safed or Israel

Jewish Law 127: The Rule of Shulhan Arukh from 2017-07-03T12:21:21

What was the basis for the Halakhic methodology of Rabbi Yosef Karo and why was it challenged?

Jewish Law 126: Refuting Previous Rulings from 2017-07-02T13:37:13

When can a rabbi disagree with a majority? Can a community or a city discontinue a minhag based on the ruling of the new rabbi?

Jewish Law 125: Rabbis Must Pick and Choose from 2017-06-30T12:19:55

Jewish Law 124: Ruling in Mishnaic Disputes from 2017-06-29T15:06:54

In this session we follow the analysis of rabbi David Chelouche in Hemda Genuza, discussing the source of halakhic tules.

Jewish Law 123: Changing Rulings and Practices from 2017-06-23T19:24:17

In this session we follow the analysis of rabbi David Chelouche in Hemda Genuza

Jewish Law 122: Morocco vs. Chief Rabbinate from 2017-06-22T12:28:47

The story of the struggle for hegemony between the chief rabbis of the Yosef dynasty and the rabbis of the Maghreb

Jewish Law 121: Moroccan Modernity. II from 2017-06-21T12:22:41

Jewish Law 120: Moroccan Modernity, I from 2017-06-20T12:13:49

The battle of Rabbi Ovadia Yosef against Moroccan tradition and, on the other hand, the modern and innovative approach of those rabbis.

Jewish Law 119: Jewish Diaspora - Center in Israel? from 2017-06-19T12:33:40

The argument for the hegemony of the Shulhan Arukh is that he was the central authority in israel. We examine this argument.

Jewish Law 118: Three Styles, Maimonides, Tur, R. Karo from 2017-06-16T12:26:35

Jewish Law 117: Beth Yosef - Majority Rule from 2017-06-15T12:34:56

Jewish Law 116 Beth Yosef II- methodology from 2017-06-14T13:30:21

Jewish Law 115: Bet Yosef - Introduction from 2017-06-13T12:16:37

Jewish Law 114: Four Columns - Turim from 2017-06-09T12:39:46

Jewish Law 113: Maimonides - Part 2 from 2017-06-08T12:26:49

Jewish Law 112: Maimonides- part 1 from 2017-06-02T15:29:44

Jewish Law 111: Post Talmud - Geonim from 2017-05-30T18:07:31

The geonic period, politics and power, and R Yitzhak al-Fassi

Torah 127: Structure of Bemidbar - Conclusion from 2017-05-26T13:39:48

Final class on the structure and message of Numbers - BeMidbar

Jewish Law 110: Babel vs. Jerusalem from 2017-05-26T13:38:31

Was the talmud edited? The political campaign against the Yerushalmi

Jewish Law 109: Talmud -Only Accept the Logical from 2017-05-25T12:24:49

R Shemueli b Hofni explains the nature of Talmudic texts and why illogical Midrashic material should be rejected. We also discuss the reason for the label Sephardic.

Jewish Law 108: Talmud Introduction from 2017-05-23T12:27:37

The Talmud is considered the central textbook in Yeshivot, but it hasn't always been that way.

Jewish Law 107: Seams and digressions in the Mishnah from 2017-05-22T12:30:36

Some proofs that the R Yehudah did not change or edit parts of the Mishnah.

Jewish Law 106: Structure of the Mishnah from 2017-05-21T19:29:33

Torah 126A: Structure of BeMidbar III - General Framework from 2017-05-19T15:00:17

After reviewing the decline in chapters 11-18 we analyze the general structure and message of the book.

Torah 126: Structure of BeMidbar II: Trust Crisis from 2017-05-19T14:56:54

In chapters 12-18 we see ongoing deterioration in the structure of nation and government.

Jewish Law 105: From Midrash to Mishnah from 2017-05-19T12:19:23

A sample of Midrash Halakha. The concern of R Yehudah regarding the writing of the Mishnah. The importance of having a contemporary judge.

Torah 124: Shiur Parashat BeHar from 2017-05-19T12:17:30

Four amazing benefits of the seven-year cycle.

Jewish Law 104: Opposing schools; Necessary Disputes from 2017-05-18T12:24:47

A brief discussion of the dispute between the schools of R Yishmael and R Akiva. The first known dispute and the reasons for its creation.

Jewish Law 103: Forgetfulness and Retrieval from 2017-05-17T12:41:48

We discuss the rise of Hillel, how laws can be forgotten, and why there was s need to write the Mishnah.

Jewish Law 102: Midrash Halakha from 2017-05-16T12:31:42

The origin of Midrash Halakha

Jewish Law 101 - the Torah from 2017-05-15T12:19:49

In this new series we review the history of Jewish Law This session deals with the status of the different books of the Torah

Book of Legends 181: Is Life a Disease and Death the Cure? from 2017-05-12T12:36:30

A disturbing Midrash takes s surprising twist and is better understood in historical context.

Torah 125: Structure of BeMidbar I - Chapter Eleven is Bankruptcy from 2017-05-11T17:19:38

Torah 126B: Structure of BeMidbar IV - Trust Crisis Deepens from 2017-05-11T17:17:59

Book of Legends 180: The Pillars - Knowledge, Responsibility, Reciprocity from 2017-05-11T12:45:37

Torah is much more than theoretical studies, and the rabbis emphasized the importance of work, in this succinct statement.

Book of Legends 179: Campaigning for Hebrew from 2017-05-09T12:22:39

Several Midrashic sources reveal the deep love of the early rabbis to the Hebrew language and their fear of Greek takeover.

Book of Legends 178: The Education of an Arrogant Rabbi from 2017-05-08T13:13:05

A Rabbi insults an ugly man and is taught a lesson in humility.

Book of Legends 177: R Meir, Marriage Counselor from 2017-05-07T13:52:31

A man who got upset at his wife fir staying late in a class wanted her to spit at the rabbi's eye. R Meir reaction teaches us deep lessons. We also discuss current problems of domestic violence.

Book of Legends 176: Elisha, Tragic Heretic II from 2017-05-05T12:33:37

Despite Elisha's claim that he cannot come back, his actions show his deep hope to reconnect.

Torah 123: Unique is Kadosh - Parashat Kedoshim from 2017-05-05T10:15:07

A new insight of the concept of קדוש not as the traditional "holy". The purpose of religion, moral values, and their place in evolution. A dispute with Yuval Noah Harari's Home Deus

Ketuvim 138: Ruth III from 2017-05-04T18:18:31

Book of Legends 175: Elisha, Tragic Heretic I from 2017-05-04T12:29:33

What was the real cause of Elisha's rebellion?

Book of Legends 174: R Akiva - Brilliant Extremist from 2017-05-03T13:02:30

The famous story about Moshe Rabbenu and R Akiva is revisited as hidden criticism.

Book of Legends 173: Democratic Rabbis-Part II from 2017-04-28T13:13:58

Rabban Gamliel tries to appease R Yehosua but misunderstands him and is taught a lesson regarding rabbinical leadership

Torah 122A: The Narrow-Minded Leper from 2017-04-28T13:11:51

Ketuvim 137: Ruth II from 2017-04-27T17:20:54

Ruth manages to bring Naomi full circle and change her attitude without letting her know that Ruth took matter into her hands.

Ketuvim 136: Ruth I from 2017-04-27T17:19:03

In chapter 2 Ruth continues to surprise us by being manipulative and pragmatic while managing to create an image of a docile and submissive girl.

Book of Legends 172: Democratic Rabbis Part I from 2017-04-27T14:25:22

After the destruction, rabbis from the Davidic dynasty were the religious leaders. The contention among colleagues and followers led to a democratic, grass roots movement, culminating with the depo...

Book of Legends 171: Respect Your Opponent from 2017-04-26T17:55:59

Though Hillel and Shammai had major disputes, they've accepted each other's actions. Later generations have mitigated their achievements and promote instead divisiveness.

Book of Legends 170: Champions of Business Ethics from 2017-04-26T17:53:02

Stories about scholars were extremely cautious not to mislead customers, and about a scholar who found ways to give the banished children of a grumpy man, a portion of their inheritance.

Book of Legends 169: The Importance of Being Earnest - Akavya from 2017-04-24T13:08:14

Akavya ben Mahalalel was a seeker of truth, excommunicated for his stubbornness. His last words to his son are surprising in their honesty and intensity.

Book of Legends 168: Hillel the Master Converter from 2017-04-23T14:01:39

Stories of three men rejected by Shammai but accepted by Hillel - is today's orthodoxy Shammai or Hillel?

Book of Legends 167: True Tzaddik - Constantly Aware from 2017-04-21T12:23:11

The Talmudic story about Abba Hilqiyya paints a different picture of a tzaddik. The values of work, honesty, transparency, and business Ethics are conveyed through the narrative.

Tanakh 104: Biblical Culture - Qedesha part IV: David's Dubious Origin? from 2017-03-31T12:16:14

King David drops hints to the possible shocking story of his conception.

Tanakh 103: Biblical Culture - Qedesha part III: David- Rejected Child from 2017-03-31T11:19:59

When the prophet searches the next king, David is all but forgotten. What's his story?

Tanakh 102: Biblical Culture - Qedesha Part II from 2017-03-24T11:06:47

Part 2 of the discussion of cult prostitution.

Tanakh 101: Biblical Culture - Qedesha Part I from 2017-03-24T11:01:42

In this discussion we explore the obscure story of cult prostitution in its many manifestations in the Bible.

Torah 106: Cain And Abel, A Cautionary Tale from 2017-03-21T16:50:34

The story of Cain and Abel tells us what not to do as parents.

Torah 105: Cycle of Curses or a Blessing? from 2017-03-21T16:50:06

What is the message of the curses cast on Adam, his wife, and the serpent?

Torah 104: Death, Birth, Serpent, Woman from 2017-03-15T15:42:55

Exploring the symbolism of birth and death, serpent and woman, in the Eden narrative.

Ketuvim 126: The Final Confrontation - Megillah V from 2017-03-10T13:19:56

Starting in chapter 7 of the Megillah we review the final Confrontation of Esther with Haman.

Ketuvim 125: Esther's plot deepens - Megillah IV from 2017-03-09T13:26:52

In chapter 5 of the Megillah we find the two men, the king and Haman, mercilessly manipulated by Esther.

Ketuvim 124: Esther's Game - Megillah III from 2017-03-08T13:30:21

Esther's paradigm shift, from a shy girl to a cunning queen.

Ketuvim 123: Esther, Mrs. Mordechai? No Way - Megillah II from 2017-03-07T14:55:57

In the second installment of the series we discuss the theory that Mordechai and Esther were a married couple.

Ketuvim 122: Megillah without Midrash - part I from 2017-03-06T19:10:52

Who was Vashti? Was she killed or banished? Persian law, and more

Book of Legends 166: Protecting Women, Defying Tyrants from 2017-01-25T02:20:53

The story of R Shimon Ben Shatah who protected women's rights and defied tyrants.

Book of Legends 165: Gender Separation from 2017-01-20T16:44:48

In the time of the II Temple a partition was adde in the courtyard. Why was it necessary? What was the argument for its creation? A look into a misunderstood mourning practice.

Book of Legends 164: High-End Bribery and Nepotism from 2017-01-18T13:33:59

Several paragraphs from Mishna and midrash showing the deterioration in the status of the priests and high priests during second temple period.

Book of Legends 163: Failing Temple, Corrupt Priests from 2017-01-17T20:41:41

Three paragraphs from midrash showing the deep
distaste of the rabbis towards the priests and what they represented. Also the idea that sacrifices are a compromise.

Book of Legends 162: Alexander - Not So Great from 2017-01-17T20:39:21

The rabbis, and their contemporaries, were awed by Alexander's prowess and feared his influence. We discuss here several paragraphs leveling harsh criticism at him.

Book of Legends 161: Haman, Antisemitism Czar from 2017-01-13T14:12:08

The chilling midrashic rendition of Haman's decree, some thoughts on anti-Semitism and on the secret of survival and success of the Jewish people.

Book of Legends 160: In Praise of Women from 2017-01-06T20:34:10

Rabbi Yehuda b. Simon praises Deborah and Esther. R Shimon b. Yohai rejects his disciples' criticism of Persian Jews and explains that sometimes even paganism is superficial.

Book of Legends 159: Four Men&a Woman from 2017-01-06T20:30:34

In this segment, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses ask God to forgive the Jews as a reward for their merits. Each man lists his achievements and sacrifices but God doesn't respond. It is Rachel who...

Book of Legends 158: Avraham Challenges Godl from 2017-01-06T20:25:39

Here we see Abraham visiting the ruins of the Temple. He is described as practicing non-Jewish and even pagan mourning practices. We discuss the literal meaning of the prohibition to destroy the be...

Book of Legends 157: God in Mourning from 2017-01-03T14:16:09

Two beautiful paragraphs dealing with the reaction to destruction. In one Jeremiah meets the embodiment of Zion and forced himself out of his misery to comfort her. In the other, God mourns his act...

Book of Legends 156: Masada Forgotten from 2016-12-29T15:04:54

Here we explore the reason for the thundering silence of the rabbis regarding Hanukkah and Masada.

Book of Legends 155: Surprising End for Shmuel and Shaul from 2016-12-23T16:09:38

Two passages are discussed here. One is the corruption of the sons of Shemuel and how the rabbis drew analogy to their contemporary corrupt leaders.
The second is the sad story of Saul and hi...

Book of Legends 154: Eight Days of Paganism? from 2016-12-21T14:36:45

Why are Hanukkah and Christmas always adjacent? A Midrash found in the Talmud might shed light on the Dec 27 2016question.

Book of Legends 153: Failed Leaders; Rejected Women from 2016-12-20T13:51:26

The Midrash rebukes the successors of Yehoshua did failing to connect to the people. This message is very applicable today. Other sources speak disparagingly of Deborah, a premonition of the curre...

Book of Legends 152: Ten Commandments of Civility from 2016-12-13T14:27:36

In this Talmudic passage the 10 commandments Joshua passes on to the Israelites deal with shared resources, civility, border flexibility and human dignity. Not your typical 10 commandments

Book of Legends 151: Pious Hypocrites from 2016-12-09T14:19:56

The rabbis criticize the hypocrites who adhere to external factors but lack inner faith and moral values. The Midrash about the wife of Ohn Ben Pelet was distorted by later rabbis to the exact oppo...

Book of Legends 150: Fighting Corrupt Cohanim from 2016-12-07T13:38:06

How the rabbis twisted the story of Korah to attack the corrupt priests.

Book of Legends 149: Mishkan and Religious OCD from 2016-12-06T16:51:45

God laments the completion of the Tabernacle because it was just a distraction, a remedy for the tendency to turn religion into an obsession.
Listen to learn more.

Book of Legends 148: A Land Without Jews from 2016-12-01T02:56:17

The Midrash speaks of the gap felt in Egypt after the Exodus. It resonates with many similar events in later history.

Book of Legends 147:Clothes, Language, and Names Never Change? from 2016-12-01T02:54:14

The Midrash says that the Israelites did not change their names, clothes, and language, but it wasn't so throughout history. Are we missing something?

Book of Legends 146: Women's Wisdom of Generations from 2016-11-28T15:53:44

Why was it important for Yosef to be buried in Israel? Why the focus on Moshe's actions? Who is Sarah bat Asher?

Book of Legends 145: Moshe Meets Pharaoh from 2016-11-22T13:33:22

The Midrash describes differ leadership styles, the selfish and unselfish. Moshe's encounter with Pharaoh is also described as a theological clash. Illustrated through a brilliant analogy.

Book of Legends 144: Moshe's Job Interview from 2016-11-21T17:27:54

A late European Midrash depicts Moshe as a loving leader, who cares about his people's well-being in the desert. God promises survival rather than comfort. Why? Also: God presents Himself by an eni...

Book of Legends 143: Moshe's Exile from 2016-11-20T01:55

Why did Moshe flee? What happened by the well? How was Moshe "interviews"?

Book of Legends 142: Civil Rights Advocate from 2016-11-20T01:05:34

What happened when Moshe first visited the Israelites? Why does the Midrash say he used mystical powers to kill the Egyptian? What energized Moshe?

Book of Legends 141: A Mole in the Palace from 2016-11-16T13:33:17

The Midrash says that Moshe tried on the king's crown. Was it even possible? Was Moshe a stutterer? Why did Pharaoh seek to kill him?

Book of Legends 140: Moshe and Elastigirl from 2016-11-16T13:27:35

Why did the Midrash bend the text to suggest a miracle happened when there is a much simpler explanation. Did the author of the Midrash believe that an arm can stretch to twice or three times its l...

Book of Legends 140a: Egyptians, Nazis, and Righteous Women from 2016-11-11T13:28:18

The Midrash describes the methods used by Pharaoh and praises righteous women.

Book of Legends 139: Yaacov's Eternal Will from 2016-11-10T13:42:06

Jacob rebukes his children; he is about to reveal secrets; the origin of Shema and Barukh Shem; Embalming, cremation, removal of bones, and organ donation.

Book of Legends 138: Yosef and Yehudah - Final Confrontation from 2016-11-09T13:23:46

The Midrash turns and twists the dialog between the brothers into a magnificent drama. We also discuss the wisdom of Joseph in delivering subliminal messages and achieving his goals.

Book of Legends 137: Yosef's Border Patrol from 2016-11-08T14:12:52

How did Joseph know his brothers were in Egypt? What did he base his accusations on? The rabbis made delicatessen from the story of the first encounter between the viceroy and his brothers.

Book of Legends 136: Elevator Pitch - Yosef and Pharaoh from 2016-11-04T16:18:43

Why weren't the sages able to interpret Pharaoh's dreams. How was Joseph able to convince Pharaoh to appoint him viceroy.

Book of Legends 135: The Temptation of Yosef from 2016-11-02T13:05:32

The story of Joseph's temptation was embellished by the rabbis. We also discuss the question whether biblical heroes are flawless.

Book of Legends 134: Yosef's Robe from 2016-11-01T20:35:35

Book of Legends 132: Confrontation and Apology from 2016-11-01T20:30:31

How the rabbis used Midrash to uplift the spirit of Jews in Diaspora and how the disputed between Yaakov and Esau was never settled.

Book of Legends 133: Yosef - Naive Teenager from 2016-10-10T17:20:14

Yaakov shows preferential treatment to Yosef. He is deceived by his dons in the same method he deceived his father.

Book of Legends 131: Punished by Deception from 2016-10-06T13:43:39

Yaakov deceives and is being deceived by Laban who makes all of his townspeople accomplices. Yaakov hurts Rachel, causes divide, and pays dear price.

Book of Legends 130: Intimacy and Deception from 2016-10-06T12:38:06

Was intimacy feared in Talmudic times? How was Yaakov tricked? Rachel and Leah were possibly twins. Yaakov's actions return to haunt him.

Book of Legends 129: Yaakov - Tender Strongman from 2016-09-29T22:17:08

Yaakov kisses Rachel. How did the rabbi's view of and what is women's status in Jewish orthodoxy today.

Book of Legends 128: Yaakov's Travels from 2016-09-29T22:12:46

What is the significance of the place? Is quantum leap possible? One or many stones? Dreams and angels.

Book of Legends 127: Yitzhak's Blindness from 2016-09-27T13:54:16

Why did Yitzhak lose his eyesight? Lesson from a great teacher. And - whose side is God on?

Book of Legends 126: Jacob's Deception from 2016-09-26T15:35:44

Why did Jacob allow himself to deceive his brother? Did he have a moral struggle? Why did his father give him the blessing even after casting doubt in his identity?

Book of Legends 125: Reverent Silence Causes Trouble from 2016-09-26T15:33:30

Why didn't Rivka speak to her husband about their sons? Was there a problem with their marriage or something that stemmed from their past and societal norms?

Book of Legends 124: How Esau became a villain from 2016-09-23T02:32:14

What is the meaning of the struggling twins? How it reflects the life of the author of the Midrash?

Book of Legends 123: Sarah's Tent from 2016-09-23T02:29:59

The temple is not the center of jewish life - the home is!

Book of Legends 122: Akedah IIl - Serving God or Humanity? from 2016-09-16T13:12:43

Last session on Akedah in Midradsh. Highlighting the idea of martyrdom as evolved in Ashkenazi Jewry under Christian influence.

Book of Legends 121: Akedah II - Skeptical Believers from 2016-09-14T00:55:04

Satan tries to stop Abraham. An allegory to Abraham's fears. Influence on Islam.

Book of Legends 120: Akedah the Great Misunderstanding from 2016-09-12T16:22:35

Exploring the Akedah and martyrdom through biblical and rabbinical texts. Part 1

Book of Legends 119: Interfaith, Pro-Islam Midrash from 2016-09-09T15:09:17

Written in post Islamic period, this Midrash apologizes for Ishmael's expulsion by Abraham. It puts the blame on Sarah and shows Abraham as a doting father. Mohammed's wives are even mentioned by n...

Book of Legends 118: Ishmael's Exile from 2016-09-07T12:34:50

One rabbi says that Ishmael worshipped idols, while another says he was kicked out bc of inheritance disputes? Who is right?

Book of Legends 117: Not Sodomy, Misanthropy! from 2016-08-26T12:48:32

People believe that Sodom's sin was Sodomy, but Ezekiel and the Midrash teach otherwise.

Book of Legends 116: Circumcision - Education of Reluctant Jews from 2016-08-26T12:46:08

Why did the rabbis cast Abraham in a negative light, as one who refuses to be circumcised?

Book of Legends 115: Hospitality and a Woman in a Box from 2016-08-24T14:33:44

The Midrash describes Abraham's hospitality, generosity, and religious teachings. It also describe Sarah as being hidden in a box or trunk - is that a metaphor for men locking women away?

Book of Legends 114: Idol-smashing, Furnace-jumping, and Philosophy from 2016-08-23T12:39:58

In the Midrashic story of Abraham the rabbis deliver complex philosophical and theological ideas through an apparently simple story.

Book of Legends 113: Abraham - Spiritual Prodigy or Accidental Prophet? from 2016-08-22T13:12:05

Book of Legends 112: Tower of Babel - Gift of Language from 2016-08-19T12:11:28

Book of Legends 111: Noah's Sin and Punishment from 2016-08-18T13:42:07

Book of Legends 110: Innocent Blind Hunter or Tyrant? - Lemekh from 2016-08-17T13:09:25

Book of Legends 109: Cain and Abel - God's Fault? from 2016-08-16T12:22:05

Book of Legends 108: Solstice, Equinox, and Hanukkah Mythology from 2016-08-15T12:25:53

Book of Legends 107: Jewish Pandora; Challenging God from 2016-08-14T10:00:17

Book of Legends 106 : Beware of Fences - Tree of Knowledge from 2016-08-10T14:01:04

Book of Legends 105: Disparaging view of Women from 2016-08-10T13:58:54

Book of Legends 104: Titus' Monstrous Mosquito from 2016-07-29T17:14:48

Book of Legends 103: The Peace Broker from 2016-07-29T17:13:10

Book of Legends 102: Destruction of the Second Temple from 2016-07-26T21:16:34

Book of Legends 101: Miracles at the Temple from 2016-07-26T21:12:41

Ruth - Loving Therapist and Model Convert (class) from 2016-06-09T09:31:45

Ketuvim 121: Psalm 35 from 2016-03-14T15:35:32

Psalm 35

Ketuvim 120: Psalm 30 from 2016-03-14T15:34:25

Psalm 30

Ketuvim 119: Psalm 29B from 2016-03-14T15:33:35

Psalm 29B (part 2)

Ketuvim 118: Psalm 28-29A from 2016-03-14T15:32:21

Psalm 28_29A

Ketuvim 117: Psalm 27 from 2016-03-14T15:31:10

Psalm 27

Ketuvim 116: Psalm 25-26 from 2016-03-14T15:30:08

Psalm 25-26 Part 1

Ketuvim 115: Psalm 24 from 2016-03-14T15:29:02

Psalm 24

Ketuvim 114: Psalm 23 from 2016-03-14T15:27:23

Psalm 23

Ketuvim 113: Psalm 22 part II from 2016-03-14T15:26:16

Psalm 22 part 2

Ketuvim 112: Psalm 21 from 2016-03-14T15:19:33

Psalm 21

Ketuvim 111: Psalm 19 from 2016-03-14T15:18:01

Psalm 19

Ketuvim 110: Psalm 18 from 2016-03-14T15:17:14

Psalm 18

Ketuvim 109: Psalm 17 from 2016-03-14T15:16:09

Psalm 17

Ketuvim 108: Psalm 16 from 2016-03-14T15:14:38

Psalm 16