Best Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 105: David Curwin "Neighbors Behind Fences" 1:02:55

2h ago1:02:55

1:02:55

In this episode, we welcome back David Curwin to discuss his recent essay, "Rabbi Eliezer Berkovits and Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik: Neighbors Behind Fences," published in Hakirah: The Flatbush Journal of Jewish Law and Thought. Curwin’s essay explores the lives and legacies of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik and Rabbi Eliezer Berkovits, two of the 2…

1
Episode 104: Dr. Paul Copan "Is God a Moral Monster?" 1:26:27

17d ago1:26:27

1:26:27

Renowned Christian philosopher and theologian Dr. Paul Copan joins us to explore our shared values and address the ethical questions people are faced with when reading the Bible. He discusses how modern readers often overlook the Torah’s revolutionary impact by viewing it solely through a contemporary lens, which strips it of historical context. To…

1
Episode 103: Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum "Questioning Belief" 1:19:41

28d ago1:19:41

1:19:41

Rabbi Dr. Raphael Zarum offers a refreshingly different approach to the deep questions of faith, one that immediately stands out from the typical answers often heard in outreach settings. For those who think critically and seek more than surface-level responses, his intellectual honesty and respect for scientific thought set him apart. In our conve…

1
Kiddush Hashem: Narrow and Broader Definitions 27:37

1M ago27:37

27:37

Is kiddush Hashem always coupled with the performance of mitzvos? Can it be performed even without intention? Even at the same time as doing an aveirah?By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein and Rabbi Simi Lerner

1
Episode 102: Rabbi Steven Pruzansky "Repentance for Life" 1:06:49

1M ago1:06:49

1:06:49

In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Rabbi Steven Pruzansky to explore the rich themes of his latest book, "Repentance for Life" (Kodesh Press). Rabbi Pruzansky begins by sharing the inspiration behind the book, including the significant impact of his teacher, Rabbi Yisroel Chait. We then delve into the chapter "Repentance and…

1
Episode 101: Rabbi Yaakov Beasley "Facing the Storm" 2:12:04

1M ago2:12:04

2:12:04

In this insightful episode, we welcome Rabbi Yaakov Beasley to discuss his book "Joel, Obadiah, and Micah: Facing the Storm," part of the acclaimed Maggid Studies in Tanakh series. Rabbi Beasley begins by sharing his background and what inspired him to write this work. He also introduces the Gush Tanakh Method for listeners unfamiliar with it, befo…

1
Episode 100: Rabbi Abe H. Faur "The Jewish People at a Crossroads" 1:21:47

2M ago1:21:47

1:21:47

Prepare for a timely, sensitive, and important conversation as Rav Abe Faur makes his much-anticipated return to the podcast. In the wake of the traumatic and transformative attacks on October 7th, Hakham Faur has become increasingly vocal on social media, especially regarding issues within the Haredi community. He shares why these events compelled…

1
Podcasting: Does it lead to Gan Eden or Gehinom? 41:05

2M ago41:05

41:05

Join us as we interview pioneer podcaster Rabbi Avremel Kivelevitz. You can find Rav Kivelevitz's podcasts here.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein and Rabbi Simi Lerner

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Episode 99: Rabbi Avi Grossman "Halakha Demystified" 1:10:20

2M ago1:10:20

1:10:20

In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Avi Grossman to explore the complexities of Halakha and its relevance to contemporary Jewish life. Rabbi Grossman begins by discussing why "Demystifying Halakha" is crucial for understanding and practicing Judaism today. We dive into the idea that the entire Torah was always meant to be practiced, a concept t…

1
Episode 98: Rabbi Chaim Eisen & Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein "Does God Need Us?" 1:25:26

2M ago1:25:26

1:25:26

In this highly anticipated episode, we sit down with Rabbi Chaim Eisen and Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein to explore some of the most critical theological questions in Jewish thought. The conversation begins with an in-depth discussion on God's Oneness and Uniqueness, particularly through the lens of the phrase "Ein Od Milvado" ("There is nothing other …

1
Isolation or Engagement? 36:00

2M ago36:00

36:00

What is the Torah's preference about dealing with challenges to our way of life?By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein and Rabbi Simi Lerner

1
Episode 97: Rabbi Moshe Taragin "Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below" 37:56

3M ago37:56

37:56

Join us as we sit down with Rabbi Moshe Taragin to explore his deeply thought-provoking book, "Dark Clouds Above, Faith Below." We begin by delving into the motivations behind his writing and how recent tragedies have influenced his approach to discussing faith and doubt in the modern world. Rabbi Taragin opens up about the importance of validating…

1
Karma or Hashgacha? 31:47

3M ago31:47

31:47

Why are some intent on ruling out G-d's presence in absolutely all matters, while some believe it is obviously the case? How do these views impact upon our behavior?By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 96: Ami Kozak, Comedian "Jewish Humor in Chaotic Times" 58:33

3M ago58:33

58:33

In this episode, we sit down with comedian and musician Ami Kozak, host of the Ami's House podcast and member of the band Distant Cousins, to delve into the nuances of his career and unique perspective as an orthodox Jew in the comedy world. We explore what initially drew him to comedy and the pivotal moments that solidified his path in the industr…

1
Episode 95: Rabbi Shmuel Phillips "Talmud Reclaimed" 1:23:40

4M ago1:23:40

1:23:40

Rabbi Shmuel Phillips joins the podcast again to take us on a journey through his thought-provoking book, "Talmud Reclaimed." Join us as we explore the current state of Halakha and the subconscious reverence for the Halakhic status quo. Rabbi Phillips discusses the pivotal role of the Sanhedrin in the Halakhic system, explaining why without it, we …

1
Words On Fire 28:47

4M ago28:47

28:47

Overheated rhetoric - the many prices we pay for it, including assassination attempts, hopeless division, and blindness to the truth.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 94: Dr. Roslyn Weiss "Light of the Lord" 1:16:09

4M ago1:16:09

1:16:09

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Roslyn Weiss to explore her translation of Hasdai Crescas's Light of the Lord. We delve into the initial inspiration behind her translation project and the challenges she faced in capturing Crescas's philosophical nuances in English. Dr. Weiss provides insight into Crescas’s difficult life and the historical co…

1
Unraveling the Unusual: The intersection of environmentalism, socialism, and Islam 29:25

5M ago29:25

29:25

Is their coming together in massive protests in the West an unholy marriage of convenience? Or is there something more than that? Two rabbis, a bunch of opinions.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 93: Rabbi Chaim Eisen "Jewish Philosophy Matters" 1:22:46

6M ago1:22:46

1:22:46

In this episode, we engage with the profound insights of Rabbi Chaim Eisen on the complex topic of free will in the context of modern science and Jewish philosophy. Our discussion opens with a look at the consensus in contemporary science, as popularized by figures like Sam Harris and Robert Sapolsky, which suggests that our actions are largely det…

1
I've Got the Old Charedi Draft Blues 34:35

6M ago34:35

34:35

It's difficult, but not impossible, for Anglos who identify as charedi to speak calmly and dispassionately about the draft issue. It becomes soooooo much harder when you have to listen to some of the most contorted arguments that some "spokesmen" have put out for popular consumption. If your reasonable self is taking a pounding, you are not alone.…

1
Episode 92: Dr. William Lane Craig "Rational Arguments for God's Existence" 54:18

7M ago54:18

54:18

In this enlightening episode, we sit down with renowned philosopher and theologian Dr. William Lane Craig to navigate the intricate intersections of faith, science, and philosophy. Our conversation opens with Dr. Craig elucidating his stance on 'Creation Ex Nihilo,' integrating theological doctrine with contemporary scientific understanding, partic…

1
"Us" or "Them:" What's been missing in charedi chinuch 30:17

7M ago30:17

30:17

History forced the Torah community to develop a bastion mentality. The unintended consequence of that has been neglecting the intrinsic values of Eretz Yisrael, and of Jewish nationhood.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 91: Frank Meeink "Chronicles of a Recovering Skinhead" 1:31:37

7M ago1:31:37

1:31:37

"Autobiography of a Recovering Skinhead (Story as Told to Jody M. Roy, Ph.D.)" is a gripping narrative of Frank Meeink's journey into the depths of the neo-Nazi underworld in America, and his subsequent emergence from a life filled with hatred and substance abuse. Growing up in a violent environment in South Philadelphia set Frank on a path towards…

1
Episode 90: Professor Daniel C. Matt "Becoming Elijah" 2:01:38

8M ago2:01:38

2:01:38

In this episode, we're honored to have Dr. Daniel Matt discuss his book "Becoming Elijah." He explores Elijah's evolving role through history, focusing on his transformative character from Tanakh to Talmud to Kabbalah and beyond. Dr. Matt delves into the significance of Elijah's name, his unique encounter with God on Mount Sinai compared to Moses',…

1
Episode 89: Rabbi Matt Schneeweiss & Rabbi Dovid Campbell "Getting to Know Ralbag" 1:45:45

8M ago1:45:45

1:45:45

In this premiere episode of Judaism Demystified's "Getting to Know the Rishonim" series, we dive into the life and legacy of Rabbi Levi ben Gershon, also known as RaLBaG or Gersonides, a prominent medieval French Jewish philosopher, Talmudist, mathematician, physician and astronomer/astrologer. We uncover who Ralbag was, shedding light on his immen…

1
It's Not Your Father's Daas Torah 29:22

8M ago29:22

29:22

The concept of Daas Torah is one of the defining elements of charedi life. Defining it, however, is not so simple. We look at some of the competing definitions, especially in the light of demands to cast ballots along party lines.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 88: Professor Lawrence H. Schiffman "The Dead Scrolls Unearthed" 1:15:23

8M ago1:15:23

1:15:23

In this highly anticipated interview with Professor Lawrence H. Schiffman, an esteemed expert in Dead Sea Scrolls studies, we explore the profound significance of these ancient manuscripts in understanding ancient Judaism and Christianity. Dr. Schiffman provides a comprehensive overview of the Dead Sea Scrolls offer invaluable insights into the rel…

1
Rough Time Ahead for Charedi Draft Exemption 33:48

8M ago33:48

33:48

The issue may bring down the government. It certainly threatens to imperil the national achdus. A recent Cross-Currents piece has made it's way beyond charedi circles. This episode explores the different perspectives, and the different options, on the blanket exemption for Charedim.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 87: Professor Lenn E. Goodman "Depopulating the Heavens" 2:11:11

8M ago2:11:11

2:11:11

In this captivating episode, we welcome back Dr. Lenn E. Goodman, who introduces his new translation of the Guide to the Perplexed, a task previously undertaken by Moshe Friedlander and notably by Shlomo Pines. Dr. Goodman explains what inspired him to reinterpret this seminal work, why it's necessary, and explains his intentions to bring fresh per…

1
Episode 86: J.J. Kimche "Assessing the Gush Tanakh Method" 1:27:52

9M ago1:27:52

1:27:52

J.J Kimche joins us once again, this time to present an overview and two critiques of the Gush Tanakh method, which has taken the Torah learning world by storm in recent years. The method developed at Yeshivat Har Etzion (commonly known as the Gush), is a comprehensive approach to studying the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible. It is rooted in the belief th…

1
Episode 85: Rabbi Yitzhak Berdugo "The Legacy of Rabbeinu Avraham Ben HaRambam" 1:05:47

9M ago1:05:47

1:05:47

Join us for a captivating episode as we spotlight Rabbi Yitzhak Berdugo's important book, "Understanding Ḥazal," which offers an English translation of Rabbeinu Avraham Ben HaRambam's guide to deciphering the words of our Sages. This meticulously crafted guide, complete with an elegantly typeset Hebrew translation, is enriched with insights from Ḥa…

1
Episode 84: Rabbi Dr. Marc B. Shapiro "The Rabbinic Response to the Rise of Reform" 1:15:29

9M ago1:15:29

1:15:29

Rabbi Dr. Marc B. Shapiro presents the historical rise of the Reform movement and the rabbinic response to it. We explore the origins of the first generation of the Reform movement, examining Scholem’s thesis and Rabbi Shapiro’s insightful thoughts on it. We uncover the fundamental advocacies of the first-generation Reformers, their rabbinical back…

1
Episode 83: Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin "Rationalism vs. Mysticism" 54:58

9M ago54:58

54:58

In this monumental episode, we interview Rabbi Dr. Natan Slifkin, popularly known as the "Zoo Rabbi," director of the Biblical Museum of Natural History in Beit Shemesh, Israel. Slifkin is best known for his interests in zoology, Judaism's relationship to evolution, Jewish and biblical history, and his popular website www.RationalistJudaism.com. Ou…

1
Episode 82: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Elisha Ben Abuyah in the Bavli" 1:21:13

10M ago1:21:13

1:21:13

In part 3 of this captivating three-part series, Dr. Jeffrey Rubenstein returns to our podcast to unravel the intricate tapestry of Talmudic narratives surrounding Elisha ben Abuyah, also known as "Aḥer" (the Other), the apostate. Exploring the accounts in the Mishna, Tosefta, Talmud Yerushalmi, and Talmud Bavli, Dr. Rubenstein provides a meticulou…

1
Episode 81: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Elisha Ben Abuyah in the Yerushalmi" 1:30:06

10M ago1:30:06

1:30:06

In part 2 of this captivating three-part series, Dr. Jeffrey Rubenstein returns to our podcast to unravel the intricate tapestry of Talmudic narratives surrounding Elisha ben Abuyah, also known as "Aḥer" (the Other), the apostate. Exploring the accounts in the Mishna, Tosefta, Talmud Yerushalmi, and Talmud Bavli, Dr. Rubenstein provides a meticulou…

1
Episode 80: Professor Jeffrey L. Rubenstein "Elisha Ben Abuyah in the Tosefta" 1:24:28

10M ago1:24:28

1:24:28

In this captivating three-part series, Dr. Jeffrey Rubenstein returns to our podcast to unravel the intricate tapestry of Talmudic narratives surrounding Elisha ben Abuyah, also known as "Aḥer" (the Other), the apostate. Exploring the accounts in the Mishna, Tosefta, Talmud Yerushalmi, and Talmud Bavli, Dr. Rubenstein provides a meticulous analysis…

1
Episode 79: J.J. Kimche & Daniel A. Klein "Letters on Kabbalah" 1:27:46

11M ago1:27:46

1:27:46

Embark on a fascinating journey through the corridors of Jewish history as we unravel the enigmatic and controversial discussions surrounding the authenticity of the Zohar and the profound role of Kabbalah in Jewish thought and practice. For the first time ever, J.J. Kimche and Daniel A. Klein, authors of the groundbreaking new book "Letters on Kab…

1
Episode 78: Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot "Mikra & Meaning" 1:07:02

1y ago1:07:02

1:07:02

Our discussion begins with Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot eloquently tackling the nuances of curricula, pedagogical choices, methodologies, and values in the study of Tanakh. He sheds light on how some traditional elements within the Orthodox community may potentially affect reverence for God and traditional piety, also known as "Yirat Shamayim." Rabbi He…

1
Episode 77: Rabbi Michael Hattin "The Challenge of the Promised Land" 57:02

1y ago57:02

57:02

Rabbi Michael Hattin begins by unraveling the overarching theme of the Book of Joshua, a theme that underpins the entire narrative. He provides illuminating examples from the text, particularly focusing on the intriguing interplay between divine design and human initiative, offering a fresh perspective on this complex dynamic. We then delve into Jo…

1
Episode 76: Rabbi Nathan Laufer "Rosh Hashana Revealed" 1:07:47

1y ago1:07:47

1:07:47

Prepare to embark on a thought-provoking exploration of Rosh Hashanah like never before, as we engage in a captivating conversation with Rabbi Nathan Laufer, author of the eye-opening book "Rendezvous with God." In this interview, we unravel the enigma that is Rosh Hashanah and challenge the conventional understanding of this sacred holiday. Rabbi …

1
Episode 75: Elisheva Liss, LMFT "Healthy Intimate Relationships" 58:07

1y ago58:07

58:07

Elisheva Liss, LMFT, an esteemed thought leader on cultivating healthy relationships in the frum world, unveils the complexities of premarital education, intimacy, mental health, and religious taboos across various communities. Her expert guidance illuminates the importance of open communication, shared values, and realistic expectations as the pil…

1
Episode 74: Rabbi Dr. Samuel Lebens "A Guide to the Jewish Undecided" 1:12:52

1y ago1:12:52

1:12:52

Rabbi Dr. Sam Lebens joins us to discuss his book, "A Guide for the Jewish Undecided: A Philosopher Makes the Case for Orthodox Judaism." He explains his motivations behind writing the book and the philosophical arguments he employs to tackle the complex subject of faith and religion. First, we dive into the introductory chapter of the book, which …

1
Episode 73: David Curwin "A Map to Eden" 50:13

1y ago50:13

50:13

David Curwin, author of "Kohelet: A Map to Eden," shares his reasons for choosing to write a book on Kohelet and explains how Rabbi David Fohrman of Aleph Beta influenced this project. In his book, Curwin uncovers various intertextual insights in the Kohelet narrative, providing a unique perspective on the life of Shelomo HaMelekh. From a biblical …

1
Episode 72: Dr. Erica Brown "Kohelet and the Search for Meaning" 1:00:51

1+ y ago1:00:51

1:00:51

In this captivating interview, we embark on a profound exploration of the enigmatic book of Kohelet with esteemed scholar Dr. Erica Brown. With her unique methodology and deep connection to the late, great Rabbi Jonathan Sacks zt"l, Dr. Brown provides fascinating insights into the diverse aspects of this mysterious biblical text. Kohelet, often reg…

1
Who Speaks For Us – And Why? 53:47

1+ y ago53:47

53:47

We’ve all seen the carefully crafted and always polite opinion pieces by Rabbi Avi Shafran. Now meet the person deftly holding the pen, and why he moved from a successful calling as a mechanech to the often-thankless task of public defender of Torah values for Agudah.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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(000) Welcome to Two Rabbis, Three Opinions 2:40

1+ y ago2:40

2:40

Events, issues, and personalities in the Israeli Torah world, for people comfortable with their Anglo background and chinuch. Typically, an episode will begin with some conversation between Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein and a rabbinic colleague, that will segue into an interview with an exciting guest.By Rabbi Yitzchok Adlerstein

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Episode 71: Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman "The Resonating Trauma of Lamentations" 48:12

1+ y ago48:12

48:12

Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman, a renowned expert in Biblical studies, returns to the podcast and showcases the profound themes of the Book of Lamentations. In this interview, we explore the historical and theological aspects of this ancient text and shed light on its complex nature. Lamentations, a poetic book in the Hebrew Bible, holds a unique place in…

1
Episode 70: Rabbi Jeremy Wieder "The Modern Orthodox Economic Crisis" 48:53

1+ y ago48:53

48:53

The Modern Orthodox community is currently facing financial and moral challenges posed by materialism. Rabbi Jeremy Wieder explains the impact of lavish practices, the clash between individualism and communal responsibility, and the financial and social pressures of "keeping up with the Joneses." Extravagant Passover programs, opulent celebrations,…

1
Episode 69: Scott Hertzl Cohanpour "A.I. and Religion" 59:31

1+ y ago59:31

59:31

Join us for an enlightening interview with the renowned Information Technology expert Scott Hertzl Cohanpour as we explore the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into how AI works, its associated risks, and the role of moral teachings in its governance. Can the Ten Commandments guide AI? Don't miss th…

1
Episode 68: Dr. Yoram Hazony "Torah Values in Today's World" 35:36

1+ y ago35:36

35:36

In his book Conservatism: A Rediscovery, Dr. Yoram Hazony discusses how Anglo-American conservatism became a distinctive alternative to divine-right monarchy, Puritan theocracy, and the liberal revolution — and why this idea is as much or more important today than ever before. As an Orthodox Jew, he makes the case that conservatism is a clear Torah…

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