JLife with Daniel

Why is American Judaism fundamentally different from its European or Middle Eastern counterparts?I discuss the past, present, and future of American Judaism with Professor Zev EleffLet me hear your thoughts belowHope you enjoy!#rabbi #americanjudasim #reformjudaism Jewish History, Politics, Israel, Antisemitism, and Zionism - I cover it all.Politics:    • Should Jews Abandon the Democratic Party? ...  Jewish History:    • Law, Revolution, and the Messiah w/ Zevi S...  Antisemitism:    • To Be a Pro-Israel Student Leader — A Conv...  Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #israel #rabbi #jewishhistory #WhatisZionism #dojews ?

When a third-generation Conservative rabbi leaves the Rabbinical Assembly for officiating interfaith marriages, it sparks a national conversation. Rabbi Ari Yehuda Saks joins us to unpack why he made this choice, the halakhic and sociological debates around marrying outside the faith, and what it means for Jewish identity in a post-denominational world.JTA Article: “Third-generation Conservative rabbi resigns from movement after facing punishment for performing intermarriages”https://www.jta.org/2025/08/11/united-states/third-generation-conservative-rabbi-resigns-from-movement-after-facing-punishment-for-performing-intermarriagesWe discuss the myths of interfaith marriage, raising Jewish children in multi-faith homes, navigating patrilineal vs. matrilineal descent, and whether pluralism can strengthen or dilute Jewish life. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in Jewish inclusion, tradition, and change.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction & why this story went viral1:05 – Rabbi Ari's family background in Conservative Judaism2:24 – The call to work with interfaith families3:16 – Two approaches to intermarriage in the non-Orthodox world4:53 – Is there a benefit for Jews to marry Jews?6:09 – Queen Esther, chance encounters, and finding meaning in relationships8:13 – College campuses, pluralism, and American Jewish reality10:26 – The “is” vs. “ought” argument in sociology & ethics13:24 – Personal stories shaping Ari's views15:21 – Marriage as a type of “intermarriage” and core values16:03 – Raising kids in interfaith homes – opportunity vs. confusion19:00 – Theological differences: when faiths diverge fundamentally21:17 – Lessons from teaching interfaith children24:01 – Six myths of “interfaithing”27:16 – Rabbinic sources on Jews living among other nations29:55 – Tradition vs. assimilation: setting limits32:03 – Rock climbing analogy: stability before flexibility35:03 – Guiding young adults vs. officiating for established couples36:04 – The patrilineal/matrilineal divide and identity struggles on campus39:22 – Historical caution: Philo of Alexandria on intermarriage41:12 – Halakhic fear vs. openness in relationships43:07 – Ari's grandfather on interdenominational unity45:00 – Why officiating intermarriage requires rethinking patrilineal descent47:23 – Final reflections: inclusivity and realistic expectations#interfaith #jewishhistory #conservative , #interfaithwedding patrilineal descent, matrilineal descent, Jewish inclusion, Jewish community, pluralism in Judaism, halakhic debate, Jewish tradition and change, Rabbi Ari Lavine, Rabbinical Assembly resignation, Jewish controversy, Jewish podcastNotes & Links:Season 1 of Interfaithing – “Debunking the Myths”https://www.patreon.com/collection/1663981Emergency Pod reacting to the buzz from the JTA article:https://www.patreon.com/posts/emergency-pod-to-136322351Jewish History, Politics, Israel, Antisemitism, and Zionism - I cover it all.Politics: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6QupJZ1HLY&list=PLQ3aQmFcYiCqqL-GSNw6NhSZWOvzaDdIKJewish History: https://youtu.be/1u4jHoZ8stM?si=0jZP4uhXlVEg2NOTAntisemitism: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCgnEZ1d24Q&list=PLQ3aQmFcYiCqkU_aPIJGbE1xTKEbkh8euFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Israel #Rabbi #Jewish #WhatisZionism #DoJews?

Mothers Against Campus Antisemitism: Fighting Hate on College Campuses | Grassroots Jewish ActivismDescription:In the wake of October 7th, Mothers Against Campus Antisemitism (MACA) has become one of the largest Jewish activist movements in the United States—mobilizing tens of thousands of parents to protect Jewish students and faculty from antisemitism on college campuses.In this episode, we speak with Miriam and Jerry, two of the founders of MACA, about:The rapid growth of the organizationThe disturbing rise in antisemitism in higher educationThe tension between grassroots activism and legacy Jewish organizations like Hillel, ADL, and FederationOngoing lawsuits against major universities (including UCLA's $6M settlement)The dismantling and politicization of Jewish Studies and Holocaust programsThe broader cultural and political fight to safeguard Jewish life on campusThis conversation dives deep into Title VI legal protections, faculty pushback, indoctrination in academia, and how grassroots Jewish activism is changing the landscape.If you care about Jewish student safety, campus free speech, and the future of Jewish life in America, this is a must-watch.

What has Hamas truly cost the Palestinian people? How has October 7th reshaped Israeli politics and Palestinian prospects for statehood? In this episode, Rabbi Daniel Levine sits down with global terrorism expert Professor Victor Asal to explore the fallout from the October 7th attacks, the rise of antisemitism and Islamophobia, and the future of peace in the region.We cover everything from Hezbollah's silence, to the dangers of political extremism, to how academic fields have handled discourse around Zionism and colonialism. This is a candid, nuanced, and sometimes heated conversation you won't want to miss.

#holocausteducation #jewishidentity #sovietunionHas Holocaust Education Failed the Jewish Community? | Rabbi Daniel Levine & Naya Lekht

There has been much information rooted in antisemitism in the current media coverage of the Gaza famine. I break this down here.#famine #gaza #israel #jesus #bloodlibel #jews Jewish History, Politics, Israel, Antisemitism, and Zionism - I cover it all.Politics:    • Should Jews Abandon the Democratic Party? ...  Jewish History:    • Law, Revolution, and the Messiah w/ Zevi S...  Antisemitism:    • To Be a Pro-Israel Student Leader — A Conv...  Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Israel #Rabbi #Jewish #WhatisZionism #DoJews?Jewish History, Politics, Israel, Antisemitism, and Zionism - I cover it all.Politics:    • Should Jews Abandon the Democratic Party? ...  Jewish History:    • Law, Revolution, and the Messiah w/ Zevi S...  Antisemitism:    • To Be a Pro-Israel Student Leader — A Conv...  Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Israel #Rabbi #Jewish #WhatisZionism #DoJews?

Should Jews leave the democratic party due to growing antisemitism in its ranks?I debate with Andrew about all things at the intersection of Jews and Politics.Make sure to like, subscriber, and let me hear your thoughts in the comments below :)#jews #democrats #mamdani #aoc #bds #jewishidentity #israel Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #judaism

What does it mean to be a Pro-Israel student leader today? In this powerful conversation, Sabrina Soffer joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of Jewish identity and campus activism. We cover the challenges facing young Jews, from rising antisemitism to the growing trend of anti-Zionist sentiment among students—including Jews themselves.We also dive into:

I sit down with writer, anthropologist, and musician Adam Louis-Klein to unpack the growing crisis in academia. We explore the rise of anti-Zionism on campus, the erosion of objectivity in the humanities, and the shift from scholarship to activism. What changed? Can we still trust academic research—especially in the social sciences and humanities? Has the university abandoned its mission in favor of ideology?

Hillel International CEO Adam Lehman joins us to discuss the future of Jewish life on campus. In this important conversation, we cover:How Hillel helped rescue Jewish students stranded in Israel during the war with IranThe rising presence and needs of Mizrahi students at HillelWhether Hillel can truly accommodate Republican and conservative Jewish studentsHow campus life and Jewish student experiences have changed after October 7The biggest tension points of creating a pluralistic Jewish community on campusWhat the future holds for Jewish identity, safety, and support at universities?This is a must-watch for anyone passionate about Jewish life, Israel, campus culture, or the challenges facing Jewish students today.

#israel #jewishhistory #australiaHillel Fuld joins me back on the podcast to discuss any array of issues including his being barred from Australia, Trump's policy in the Middle east, Orthodox anti-Zionism, antisemitism, whether he is afraid of right-wing antizionism, The NYC mayoral elections, and much more!‪@hilzfuld‬ #jewishhistory #hillelfuld #israel #australia #hillel #satmar For our first conversation see here:    • Hillel Fuld Argues the Jewish Case for Trump  Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  

Join me as I explore the wave of antisemitic comments flooding my recent YouTube videos. In this video, I break down why I believe most of these comments aren't from real people at all—but from bots. We'll look at the patterns, suspicious accounts, and broader reasons behind coordinated online hate campaigns.If you've noticed similar trends or have thoughts on the rise of bot-driven antisemitism, share them in the comments below. Let's keep this conversation going. #jewish #judaism #israel #zionism #ai #bots #chatgpt #socialmedia Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

#jewishhistory #kabbalah #gershomScholem

#israel #iran #fordowstrike

#AndrewPessin #JewishStudents #FreeSpeechWhy has antisemitism surged on college campuses—and what (if anything) are universities doing about it? In this episode, Andrew Pessin joins us to break down the ideological, political, and institutional forces behind the current campus climate.We discuss:– The roots of anti-Zionism and its overlap with antisemitism– The response (or lack thereof) from university administrators– Federal pressure on colleges, including from the Trump administration– What Jewish students are facing on the groundThis is a wide-ranging conversation about free speech, identity politics, and the future of higher education.

#JewishDiaspora #JewishHistory #AndresSpokoinyIn this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Andrés Spokoiny—president and CEO of the Jewish Funders Network—to unpack a challenging and timely question: Is powerlessness a Jewish virtue?Our conversation revolves around this article: https://www.tabletmag.com/sections/arts-letters/articles/jewish-oyster-problemWe explore:

#CandaceOwens #TuckerCarlson #JewishIdentity

I speak with actor and podcast host Jonah Platt of the  @BeingJewishPodcast .We touch on a variety of topics related to our current moment in Jewish history.

I lay out a framework for how to think about the Israel-Hamas war - with material that will upset everyone!Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#IsraelHamasWar#MiddleEastConflict#NuanceMatters#HardTruths#UncomfortableTruths#BothThingsCanBeTrue#ThinkingOutLoud#BeyondTheHeadlines#CriticalThinking#ComplexRealities#MoralFog#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

Join us for a riveting debate with Shaiel Ben-Ephraim  @shaielb  of the Israel-Palestine Report as we tackle the urgent and polarizing question: Is Israel committing genocide? In this conversation, we'll dig deep into the legal and moral definitions of genocide, the historical and political context of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the complexities of labeling this war as such.But that's just the starting point. We also explore:Is this war just?What are the potential future effects in the region?Is this truly a clash between fundamentalism and liberalism?Can one be a Zionist and still stand against the war?What role does antisemitism play in how this conflict is discussed and understood?#Debate#IsraelPalestineConflict#MiddleEast#GenocideDebate#Zionism#Antisemitism#HumanRights#Liberalism#Fundamentalism#CurrentEvents#Podcast#NewsAnalysis#YouTubeDebate#ExpertInterview#PublicDiscussionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

In this episode, I speak with Izabella Tabarovsky about the deep historical roots of modern anti-Zionism, tracing its origins in medieval Christian antisemitism and Soviet ideology. We explore how these ancient and modern narratives intertwine and shape the contemporary discourse around Jews, Israel, and Zionism. Join us for a conversation that sheds light on the forgotten past and the ideological forces at play today.For our first conversation see here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5i1c...‪@izabellatabarovsky3215‬ Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

Reflections after the tragic antisemitic shooting last night at the DC museum

In this powerful and wide-ranging conversation, Rabbi Richard Steinberg shares his insights on how to revitalize American synagogues, foster meaningful Jewish identity, and confront the challenges facing Jewish communities today. We also discuss the role of Israel education, strategies for ensuring Jewish safety, and how Jewish institutions can adapt to a changing world without losing their core values. Whether you're a synagogue leader, educator, or passionate community member, this episode is a must-watch.

What happens when a liberal Muslim reformer sits down with a Jewish educator to talk about Israel, Zionism, and the future of the Middle East? In this bold and unfiltered episode, I speak with Dalia Ziada—an Egyptian human rights activist, writer, and director of the Liberal Democracy Institute. We unpack the complexities of Islam's historical and theological relationship to the land of Israel, the challenges of antisemitism in the Arab world, and why Zionism is often misunderstood in Muslim societies.Together, we explore:Islam and ZionismThe nature of claims of IslamophobiaAntisemitism in the Middle EastIslamic Reform movements And much more!Whether you're Jewish, Muslim, or just curious—this is a conversation you won't want to miss.#Islam #Zionism #Israel #MiddleEast #DaliaZiada #JewishMuslimDialogue #Peace #Antisemitism #LiberalIslam

Can the tools of critical academic inquiry coexist with religious tradition? In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with scholar and educator JJ Kimche to explore the tensions—and possibilities—between Academic Jewish Studies and Traditional Judaism.We ask big questions:How do we know what really happened in Jewish history?Is it possible to do unbiased scholarship—or is all academia shaped by cultural and political forces?Can ideas retain truth and value even when embedded in sociopolitical agendas or secular frameworks?What happens when academic findings challenge core religious beliefs—or vice versa?Is "faithful criticism" possible—or a contradiction in terms?Tune in for a deep dive into how historical consciousness, academic honesty, and religious commitment can coexist—or collide—in the modern Jewish mind.Keywords: Academic Jewish Studies, Traditional Judaism, Jewish history, religious scholarship, JJ Kimche, Jewish podcast, critical scholarship, faith and reason, historical truth, modern orthodoxy, secularism, academia and religion, unbiased research, Jewish identity, Torah and science, Jewish intellectual traditionFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism #JewishStudies #TraditionalJudaism #JJKimche #AcademicJudaism

Why do some Orthodox Jews passionately oppose the State of Israel—while others see it as the beginning of redemption?Who are the Satmar Hasidim? Who are Neturei Karta? Where does the Messiah fit into all of this? And how do both Chabad and Religious Zionism shape the story?I sit down with scholar Shaul Magid to unpack these questions and explore the future of Judaism, Zionism, anti-Zionism, and messianic belief.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with Villanova Law Professor Chaim Saiman about his book Halakhah: The Rabbinic Idea of Law. We explore how halakhah functions not just as a legal code but as a mode of religious and intellectual engagement. From Talmudic argumentation to modern legal theory, Saiman unpacks what makes Jewish law unique.#JewishLaw #Halakhah #ChaimSaiman #JewishStudies #LegalPhilosophy #RabbinicLaw #Talmud #Judaism #ReligionAndLaw #PodcastInterviewFacebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with Professor Naomi Seidman about her research on the history of Beis Yaakov. We discuss:1) Woman in Orthodox Judaism2) Was Beis Yaakov a feminist movement3) How Orthodox Judaism rewrites its history4) How does Modern Orthodoxy differ from mainstream Orthodoxy5) Why do Orthodox Jews not like dogs6) Current trends regarding gender in Orthodoxyand much more! Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #beis #orthodox #ultraorthodox #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

Rabbi Ari Jun-Ballaban's story went viral left month when he was uninvited to a rally against Nazis due to his being a "zionist"We unpack this story and discuss a wide range of related topics. Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I discuss David Bocarsly's work as the head of JPAC as we discuss and debate the ins and outs of the intersection of Jews and Ethnic StudiesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/

I talk and debate with longtime Jewish professional Adam Fox about whether or not Jews truly have any allies in our fight against antisemitism.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

How much can we actually know about what is happening in Gaza?How should we contend with media bias about Israel?Which news sources should one trust?I discuss all these questions and much more with Melissa Weiss, the head of Jewish Insider.https://jewishinsider.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I talk with the prolific Rabbi Stephen Einstein about conversion to Judaism, the state of Judaism in America, why the reform movement is shrinking, what has changed over the course of his 50+ year career, Trump, and much moreFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levin...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniel...#Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I talk with Chaplain Jonah Sanderson about caring for people at the end of life and what they look back on with regret and satisfaction.Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #NoRegrets #LifeWellLived #LessonsLearned #Wisdom #FindingMeaning #LivingWithPurpose

What drives the rise of messianic figures in Jewish history? In this episode, we explore the tension between law and mysticism—two forces that have shaped Jewish thought for centuries. Historian David Graizbord joins us to discuss how social, political, and spiritual conditions create the perfect storm for messianic movements. We examine figures like Shabtai Tzvi and even Jesus, asking what made their claims compelling and why their followers saw them as redeemers. How does Jewish law push back against messianism? And how does mysticism keep the hope alive? Tune in for a deep dive into one of Judaism's most complex and recurring dilemmas.Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Judaism #JewishHistory #FalseMessiahs #MessianicMovements #DavidGraizbord #JewishTheology #ShabtaiTzvi #JewishMessiah #ReligiousHistory #Podcast #JewishStudies #HistoryPodcast #ReligionExplained #Mysticism #jewishculture #Zionism #hillel #judaismohoy

I discuss the frustrating story of me trying to host an anti-Israel activist on the podcast - and why my failure touches on broader themes in the current moment.#palestine #israel #podcast Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I discuss the situation of the deportation of the Columbia University student with public defender Luke Rodriguez.We also tackle big questions of Liberalism including the age old question of how to keep Jews safeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #Judaism #trump

How does social media shape public discourse on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict? What challenges do liberal values and free speech face in today's digital landscape? Join us for an insightful conversation with Prof. Vikki Katz, an expert in media, communication, and political discourse.We'll explore:✅ The role of social media in amplifying narratives✅ Censorship vs. free expression in conflict discussions✅ How liberalism interacts with online activism✅ The impact of misinformation and digital echo chambersWhether you're interested in political communication, Middle East affairs, or free speech debates, this discussion is a must-watch!

I talk with Dr. Dan Cooper, Professor of Pediatrics at UC Irvine and Nora Cooper, investigative journalist, about all things Jews and medicine.We discuss:1) Why there are so many Jewish doctors?2) How has antisemitism played a role in the history of medicine?3) The quota system for Jews in American medical schools4) How Oct 7 led to a proliferation of antisemitism in contemporary medicineAnd much more!If you like these podcast please rate and leave a comment so others can find as well!Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with longtime Jewish leader Andrew Getraer about his long career in Hillel, American Judaism, Why we don't talk more about God, and lots of other topics.#god#hillel#israel Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31  Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism#Judaism

I speak with @AlonBurstein  about the latest developments regarding Trump's plan for the future of GazaFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/#Zionism #Israel #gaza #Judaism

In this episode, we sit down with attorney and advocate Julie Marzouk to explore the intersection of immigration, antisemitism, and violence against women—and what the first weeks of Trump's second term reveal about the legal landscape for combating antisemitism. We discuss the Trump administration's executive order on antisemitism, new federal investigations into college campuses, and the formation of a multi-agency task force to address rising antisemitic incidents in schools and universities. How will these policies impact Jewish students and communities? We also examine Trump's aggressive immigration enforcement, including the Texas National Guard's expanded authority to arrest migrants, and what this means for broader legal and humanitarian concerns. Join us for a deep dive into the legal and policy challenges shaping the Jewish community today—plus what advocates like Julie Marzouk are doing to fight for justice.

I speak with Rabbi Drew Kaplan, host of the Jewish Drinking Show, about all things Judaism and alcohol Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/ #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with April Powers about whether or not DEI is an idea worth saving. We discuss the overall implications, the philosophy of DEI, antisemitism within DEI, and much more Facebook:   / daniel.levine.31   Instagram:   / rabbidaniellevine  #Zionism #hillel #Judaism #DEI #JewishInclusion #JewishVoices #StopAntisemitism #JewishEquity #DiversityAndInclusion #JewishIdentity #JewsInDEI #JewishRepresentation #EquityAndInclusion #AprilPowers #JewishAdvocacy #DiversityMatters #InclusionMatters #FightingHate #JewishCommunity #TikkunOlam

I speak with the CEO of Pesach Tikvah an organization that specializes in mental health for the Orthodox community. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.levine.31/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rabbidaniellevine/ #Zionism #hillel #Judaism

I speak with Oded Revivi who was the mayor of Efrat for over 15 years. We discuss the question of Israeli settlements, Palestinians, 10/7, Human Rights , The Jewish History of Efrat, Donald Trump, and much more! If you like these episodes please subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

In this episode, I talk with Shai Davidai, one of the most prominent Zionist academics of the post-10/7 era. Shai has been at the forefront of addressing the surge in antisemitism on college campuses, courageously calling out Columbia University's administration for their failure to adequately support Jewish students during these challenging times. Through his advocacy and personal reflections, Shai sheds light on the struggles Jewish students face, the importance of standing up for one's identity, and how Zionism intersects with academic life and activism. We also discuss his own Jewish identity as an atheist.

I talk to my dad, Professor Herbert Levine, about a variety of topics including: campus life, antisemitism in the sciences, politics, loss of trust in institutions, his Jewish upbringing, and much more!