Best Makaleler Podcasts (2024)

1
Is Your Leader a False Prophet? - Re'eh 20:08

3h ago20:08

20:08

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabb Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Re'eh from Deuteronomy, focusing on the concept of prophets and how to distinguish between true and false prophets. He addresses the challenge of discerning genuine divine communication in a religious context, where false prophets can easily …

1
A Festival of Love - Jewish Engagements and Marriage Explained 21:06

13d ago21:06

21:06

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today", Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman dedicates the discussion to the Jewish holiday of Tu B'Av, the 15th of Av, and its connection to romantic relationships and engagements, in honor of his son Dovi's engagement. He explains that Tu B'Av is considered a joyous holiday, akin to Yom Kippur, as young women woul…

1
The Competing Spies Narrative Shows You Won't Find the Truth in the Torah 24:20

4d ago24:20

24:20

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the first Torah portion in the book of Deuteronomy, known as "Devarim" or "Mishneh Torah." He begins by discussing the nature of Deuteronomy, which largely consists of Moses' speeches to the Israelites before they enter the land of Israel. The focus of this episo…

1
Passing the Test: Fighting for the Land from the East Side of the Jordan - Matot 17:34

27d ago17:34

17:34

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Matot, focusing on chapter 32 of the Book of Numbers. The story centers around the tribes of Reuben and Gad, who request to stay on the east side of the Jordan River due to the land's suitability for their cattle, rather than crossing into…

1
The Politics of Succession: Biden's Choice vs. Moses' Wisdom 15:25

1M ago15:25

15:25

In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Pinhas, particularly focusing on the succession of leadership from Moses to Joshua. He begins by drawing a parallel between recent events in American politics, where President Joe Biden stepped aside in favor of his Vice President Kamala Har…

1
Moses's Biblical Fiction - Balak 18:10

25d ago18:10

18:10

In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Balak, offering an ideological perspective on its authorship and historical authenticity. Brackman begins by summarizing the story of Balak, the Moabite king, who hires the Gentile prophet Balaam to curse the Israelites. Despite his efforts, Balaam en…

1
The Torah’s Rejection of Venerating Dead Leaders - Chukat 17:08

1M ago17:08

17:08

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion "Chukat," which heavily focuses on the concept of death. He explores the significance of death in the Torah, emphasizing that while life is sacred and filled with purpose, death represents the cessation of this purpose and the ultimate impurity…

1
Despair and Mediation: Moses Between Rebellion and Divine Wrath 10:08

1M ago10:08

10:08

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Korach, focusing on the rebellion led by Korach against Moses and Aaron. Korach's challenge was based on the idea that all Israelites are holy and should be allowed to serve as priests, not just Aaron and his descendants. Levi highlights thr…

1
Defying the Divine: The Stories of the Makoshesh and Makalel - Shlach with Yehuda Ber Zirkind 31:29

2M ago31:29

31:29

In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman and guest Rabbi Yehudah Ber Zerkind discuss the Torah portion of Shlach, focusing on the story of the man gathering sticks on Shabbos (the Makoshesh). This story is juxtaposed with another incident from the portion of Emor in Leviticus, where a man curses God and is …

1
Hadren Baba Metzia - Business Advice from the Talmud and Why People Die 21:42

2M ago21:42

21:42

In this special episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman marks the completion of the Talmudic tractate Bava Metzia with a Hadran, a traditional concluding reflection. He explains the significance of the Hadran prayer, which expresses the commitment to continually return to and study the Torah. Brackman delves into key t…

1
Riffraff Among Us: How Losing Identity Leads to Moral Decay - Bahalotcha 17:46

2M ago17:46

17:46

In this episode of "Truth Jewish Wisdom for Today," Levi Brackman discusses the Torah portion of Beha'alotcha from Numbers 11, highlighting the people's complaints and God's response. He examines the Israelites' grievances, including their lack of gratitude for manna and desire for meat, and contrasts this with their earlier complaints in Exodus 16…

1
Reinterpreting Our Judaism - A Conversation on Faith and Identity w/ Yehuda Zirkind 2:16:38

2M ago2:16:38

2:16:38

In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Rabbi Dr Levi Brackman engages in an in-depth and candid conversation with Rabbi Yehudah DovBer Zirkind, a learned scholar deeply rooted in both traditional and critical Jewish studies. The episode, lasting over two hours, explores Zirkind's unique perspective, influenced by his lineage as …

1
The Divine and Mundane Necessity of Counting For Business and Life - Bamidbar 30:15

3M ago30:15

30:15

This episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman introduces the Book of Numbers (Bamidbar) and delves into the commandment to count the Israelites, explaining that this is the third time they have been counted. Levi explores why the numbers remained the same despite events like the sin of the Golden Calf. He mentions co…

1
Jewish Hell vs Christian and Islamic Hell - Bechukotai 25:32

3M ago25:32

25:32

Welcome to another episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," presented by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. In our Torah Portion Uncensored series, Rabbi Brackman delves deep into the weekly Torah readings, offering profound insights and contemporary relevance. In this episode, Rabbi Brackman explores Parashat Bechukotai, the final portion in the book o…

1
The Biblical Blueprint for Society Is Neither Left Nor Right - Behar 24:21

3M ago24:21

24:21

Welcome to another episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today." In this installment of the "Torah Portion Uncensored" series, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the Torah portion of Behar, found in Leviticus chapter 25. This chapter addresses the significant themes of Shmita (the sabbatical year) and Yovel (the Jubilee year). The land rests every…

1
Many Religious People Are NOT Holy - Kedoshim 13:52

4M ago13:52

13:52

In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the profound call to holiness found in Leviticus chapter 19, beginning with the directive, "You should be holy for I, the Lord your God, am holy." This invitation to holiness is addressed to the entire congregation of Israel, emphasizing that holiness is an expec…

1
Biblical Connections Between Illicit Relations & Illicit Protests - Acharai Mot 26:16

4M ago26:16

26:16

In this episode of Truths Jewish Wisdom host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into an often-cited yet deeply contested portion of the Torah: Leviticus chapter 18, the chapter that lays down the foundations of forbidden marriages, famously known for its controversial stance on incestuous relationships and homosexuality. This particular chapter has pro…

1
Genital Emissions: Purifying Ilicit Erotic Desire (Metzora) 18:28

4M ago18:28

18:28

This episode of "Truths Jewish Wisdom for Today," hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, focuses on a lesser-discussed aspect of the Torah concerning bodily impurities, particularly genital discharges, as detailed in Leviticus Chapter 15. This segment, usually overlooked due to its sensitive nature, delves into the implications and types of impurities …

1
When a Woman Emits Seed First: The Torah's Views on Conception & Gender 36:58

5M ago36:58

36:58

Welcome to today's episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," with your host, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. This season, we're diving deep into the uncensored aspects of our Torah portions, and today's focus lands on Parashat Tazria. In this episode, we're honing in on the first two verses of Parashat Tazria, exploring the intriguing and less frequen…

1
Does the Torah Imply a Role for Non-Kohanim in the Tabernacle? 11:38

5M ago11:38

11:38

Welcome to this week's "Torah Portion, Uncensored" episode with your host, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. Levi broadcasts from the scenic beauty of Evergreen, Colorado, a place that holds a special significance for him, having served as a rabbi there for over a decade. Despite the challenges of recording on the road, his commitment remains unwavering—to …

1
Tzav - Analyzing Moses' Nepotism 20:57

5M ago20:57

20:57

In this insightful episode of "Torah Portion Uncensored," host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explores the second Torah portion, Tsav, from Leviticus. This episode delves into the intricate ceremonies of consecration and anointment of the Tabernacle, the sacred vessels, and the inauguration of Aaron and his sons as the priesthood under the guidance of Mos…

1
Vayikra - Animal Sacrifices Are Obsolete in Judaism 51:38

5M ago51:38

51:38

Welcome to the exciting new season of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," where your host, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, explores the Torah. This episode, the first in the "Torah Portion Uncensored" season, explores Leviticus and the Quest for Evidence-Based Faith and invites listeners to delve deep into the Book of Leviticus, challenging conventional in…

1
The Final Word: Postmodernism, Judaism, Israel, and What's Next 20:40

6M ago20:40

20:40

In the final episode of "Truth Jewish Wisdom for Today" on Postmodernism, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman takes his listeners on a review of the intricacies of postmodernism, its impact on society, and its intersection with Jewish thought and history. This final episode of the season not only serves as a recap of the series' exploration into the postmodern…

1
Postmodernism in Chabad Theology 39:41

6M ago39:41

39:41

Welcome to another episode of Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today, exploring postmodernism hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. This episode examines what scholars such as Naftali Loewenthal and Elliott Wolfson claim are the postmodern aspects of Chabad's teachings, particularly as expounded by the seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe, the late Rabbi Menachem Mende…

1
From Child Sacrifice to Election Denial: A Jewish Philosopher's Grappling with Postmodernism - with Prof. Rynhold 1:04:20

6M ago1:04:20

1:04:20

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," we have the privilege of hosting Professor Daniel Rynhold, a luminary in Jewish philosophy and the Dean at the Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies at Yeshiva University. Host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman engages Professor Rynhold in a deep and nuanced dialogue that explores the fascinatin…

1
Concluding Baba Kama: Judaism's Definitive Rejection of Postmodernism 31:13

6M ago31:13

31:13

In this episode of "Truths - Jewish Wisdom for Today," marking the completion of the tractate Baba Kama, host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into the relationship between Judaism and postmodernism through the lens of this significant Talmudic Tractate. Join us as we engage in a Hadran, reflecting our commitment to continual learning and revisiting …

1
A Postmodern Rethinking of the Truth of Judaism 1:16:08

7M ago1:16:08

1:16:08

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," we engage in a profound conversation with Rabbi Levi Morrow, exploring the intersections of Jewish wisdom, identity, and the nature of knowledge itself. Hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, this discussion not only traverses Rabbi Morrow's journey from Southern California to Jerusalem but also del…

1
Why Postmodernism is an Anachronism to Enlightened Judaism 39:11

7M ago39:11

39:11

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves into what he contends is the incompatibility between postmodernism and Judaism. Levi critically examines the postmodern assertion that reality and truth are subjective, contrasting this with a Jewish perspective that values empirical evidence, albeit recognizing it…

1
From Transgender Cantors to Science Denial - the Impact of Postmodernism on Judaism 31:28

7M ago31:28

31:28

In this episode of "Truth Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman continues his exploration of postmodernism, focusing on its impact on culture and Judaism. Brackman highlights how postmodernism, as the zeitgeist of the time, has influenced various aspects of Judaism, from liberal to conservative practices, often without people realizing …

1
From Kant to Polyamory: Tracing the Absurdity of Postmodern Thought 25:03

7M ago25:03

25:03

In this insightful episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves deeply into the complexities and implications of postmodernism. The episode is a continuation of a series that explores the origins and development of postmodern thought, particularly in relation to the Enlightenment era's emphasis on science and em…

1
From Enlightenment to Postmodernism: A Historical Jewish Perspective 24:10

8M ago24:10

24:10

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, listeners are invited to explore a thought-provoking journey through history, viewed through Jewish wisdom. Building on the themes discussed in the previous episode, Levi delves into the historical context of various ideologies, tracing their evolution from anc…

1
I Am Woke After Oct 7: Combating Postmodernism's Grip on Both Left and Right 27:33

8M ago27:33

27:33

Welcome to the inaugural episode of season five of our insightful podcast series, hosted by the Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. This season promises to embark on a thought-provoking journey, diverging from the familiar to explore the complex interplay between postmodernism, philosophy, and Judaism. Brackman, with his distinctive blend of candidness and in…

1
Kabbalah Season Finale: Mixed Feelings and Final Thoughts on Its Messianic Ambitions 37:48

9M ago37:48

37:48

This episode marks the final installment in Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman's series on the Kabbalah, where he concludes his exploration of this mystical Jewish tradition. He begins by recapping the journey through the Kabbalah, focusing on the concept of Tikkun, a central theme in Kabbalistic thought, especially in the teachings of Rabbi Isaac Luria. Tikk…

1
Kabbalistic Theodicy, the Breaking of the Vessels and the Problem of Evil 31:29

9M ago31:29

31:29

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Levi Brackman begins by wishing listeners a joyful Hanukkah and explaining the metaphorical significance of lighting the menorah, relating it to Kabbalistic concepts like the sefirot and the divine attributes. The discussion shifts to the intricate ideas of lights and vessels in Kabbalah, focusi…

1
Lights, Vessels, and the Entrepreneurial Journey in Lurianic Kabbalah 32:19

9M ago32:19

32:19

In this episode of "Truth Jewish Wisdom for Today," hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, the focus is on the profound concepts of Kabbalah, particularly exploring the aftermath of the 'great contraction' and the creation of 'vessels.' Brackman delves into the teachings of Rabbi Isaac Luria as explained in the book "The Tree of Life." The discussion r…

1
Is God Here or Not? Unpacking the Tzimtzum 29:54

9M ago29:54

29:54

In this episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today," Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman explains mystical concepts from Kabbalah, the Jewish mystical tradition. Specifically, he delves deeper into the concept of "tzimtzum" - the notion in Kabbalah that God contracted His infinite light to allow space for the world to be created. The episode begins with a rec…

1
How God Made Room for the Universe: Exploring the Primordial Contraction 26:06

10M ago26:06

26:06

In this rich exploration of Lurianic Kabbalah, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman dives deep into the concept of Tzimtzum, the primordial "contraction" or concealment of God's infinite light that allowed for the possibility of creation. He frames the discussion by recapping key foundational ideas previously covered in the podcast. First, God created the unive…

1
Siyum of Kiddushin: What's at Stake for the World in the War with Hamas 27:17

10M ago27:17

27:17

In this week’s episode of “Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today,” host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman marks the completion of the order of Nashim in the Talmud, which covers topics related to women, marriage, and gender. Brackman creatively ties this milestone for Daf Yomi participants to an analysis of the current war in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. He expl…

1
The Great Arousal - The Divine Impetus for Creation in Lurianic Kabbalah 29:08

10M ago29:08

29:08

The episode continues a discussion about Lurianic Kabbalah and its teachings on how the world was created. It looks at the philosophical debate between Aristotle's view of an eternal universe versus the Jewish view that God created the universe ex nihilo (out of nothing). According to Lurianic Kabbalah, before creation there was only the Or Ein Sof…

1
Actualizing Infinity: How Kabbalah Explains God's Reason for Creation 22:21

11M ago22:21

22:21

In this episode, Rabbi Brackman explores profound explanations from Lurianic Kabbalah and the Zohar for why God brought the universe into being. He dedicates the episode in memory of his late father, Dr. Derek Samuel Brackman, who imparted to him a deep thirst for knowledge and critical thinking. According to Lurianic teachings, before creation, th…

1
Why Do They Behead Our Babies and Burn Our Families Alive? 33:55

11M ago33:55

33:55

In this raw and heartfelt episode, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman processes the horrific aftermath of the genocidal attack in southern Israel. He describes the sheer depravity of the killings, calling the perpetrators "genocidal maniacs" representing a barbarism unlike humanity has ever seen. Compelled by the disturbing images, Brackman explains it's vita…

1
Kabbalistic vs Rationalistic Approaches to Sukkot 21:59

11M ago21:59

21:59

In this episode, host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman analyzes the festival of Sukkot from two radically different perspectives – the rationalist approach of medieval philosopher Maimonides and the mystical approach of kabbalist Isaac Luria. This analysis provides a window into divergent interpretations of Judaism. Sukkot is a biblical Jewish festival taki…

1
Origins of the Zohar and imagining a Judaism without its influence - with JJ Kimche 1:21:07

11M ago1:21:07

1:21:07

The Zohar stands as the central text of Jewish mysticism, profoundly shaping Judaism since its emergence in 13th century Spain. Yet the Zohar's origins remain shrouded in mystery. Traditionalists claim it represents an ancient tradition tracing back to the 2nd century sage Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. But compelling evidence indicates the Zohar was act…

1
Introduction to the Zohar and its Sexual Mysticism 29:53

11M ago29:53

29:53

In this insightful episode, host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman delves deep into the intricate world of Kabbalah, the age-old Jewish mysticism that finds its foundation in ancient texts and has since seen continuous evolution. This episode serves as a prelude to the intricate teachings of Rabbi Isaac Luria, fondly known as Lurianic Kabbalah. The episode s…

1
Are Heaven and Hell Real? Kabbalah's Chilling Afterlife Theories and the Path to Eternal Life 27:48

12M ago27:48

27:48

Welcome to another episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today" with your host Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman. Today, we explore the profound insights from a lesser-known yet pivotal work by Rabbi Chaim Vital, a key figure in the Kabbalistic tradition. Born in Italy in the 16th century, Vital is best known for being a chief disciple of Rabbi Isaac Luria a…

1
Is the Kabbalah Really Jewish? 26:57

12M ago26:57

26:57

In this episode of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," host Levi Brackman explores the deep roots of Kabbalah, a form of Jewish mysticism, challenging the notion that its principles originated only in the 13th century. Using examples from the Torah and rabbinic texts like the Talmud, Levi argues that the mystical elements have always been an integra…

1
My Journey from Chassidut to Kabbalah via Rationalism 34:40

1y ago34:40

34:40

Welcome to a new season of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today" focused on theology and Kabbalah. In this episode Levi Brackman offers an insightful exploration of the Kabbalah, with an emphasis on the teachings of the Lurianic Kabbalah, attributed to Rabbi Isaac Luria from the 16th century. Kabbalah, meaning 'to receive', provides a deeper understand…

1
Jewish Multiplicity - Season 4's Wisdom, Insights & the Need for a New Theology 26:43

1y ago26:43

26:43

In the final episode of the 4th season of "Truths, Jewish Wisdom for Today," hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, listeners are treated to a comprehensive review of the season's guests and the core takeaways from their discussions. The podcast has been a space for conversations with individuals who embrace the idea of multiple truths and pathways. Gu…

1
Connecting with God through Visualization - with Rabbi Reuven Stepsky 33:13

1y ago33:13

33:13

Welcome to another enlightening episode of "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today." Today's conversation delves deep into the pathways of connecting with the divine, guided by the insights of Rabbi Reuven Stepsky. Rabbi Stepsky, an introspective yet joy-spreading personality, feels a natural tether to the divine, a connection he has nourished throughout …

1
Innovating Halacha (Jewish Law) - A Conversation with Professor Rabbi Michael Broyde 51:08

1y ago51:08

51:08

Today, we have a distinguished guest, Rabbi Professor Michael Broyde, joining Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman in a compelling dialogue that delves deep into the intricate tapestry of Jewish law and thought. Our discussion pivots around a central idea — that as Professor Broyde insightfully notes, the law or Halacha in Judaism is comparable to what economis…

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