Podcasts about chag sameach

Do you ever think about what G-d has done for you in life? Why is there an offering on Shavuot? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he highlights the importance of recognizing how much mercy, deliverance, and blessing G-d has given to each of us personally. We were but aimless wanderers who were without true meaning, but G-d called us by name for a special purpose, and we must rejoice over the fruit He cultivated. Chag Sameach!1 Peter 2.9-10; Deuteronomy 16.2; Deuteronomy 26.5-10 Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Welcome to our daily Bitachon. Today is Erev Shavuot and we will begin with something we normally don't do: a brief halachic discussion. The Halachic Discussion: Meat on Shabbat vs. Yom Tov Does one have to eat meat on Shabbat? According to both Chacham Ovadia Yosef and Chacham Ben Zion Abba Shaul, it is not halachically required. If you enjoy meat, eating it is a wonderful fulfillment of Oneg Shabbat (Shabbat pleasure). However, if you simply do not like meat and it is not your cup of tea, you can certainly have a wonderful fish meal instead. Of course, the meal must still be respectful—like a wedding. You shouldn't just put tuna fish and crackers on the table. It should be elegantly set up. Just as a wedding features high-quality salmon, you can choose to serve fine dishes other than meat at your "Shabbat Queen's" wedding feast. It all depends on your personal enjoyment. If you are a meat eater who enjoys a steak on Thursday night, don't suddenly decide to go vegan on Shabbat. But if you are someone who avoids meat all week for dietary or health reasons, Shabbat is no different. When it comes to Yom Tov (the holidays), however, the rule is reversed. On Yom Tov, eating meat and drinking wine is an obligation. The Torah states, "V'samachta bechagecha" (You shall rejoice in your festival), and Chazal teach: אין שמחה אלא בבשר ויין "There is no joy without meat and wine." The Rambam writes in Sefer HaMitzvot (Aseh 54) that rejoicing with meat and wine is a positive commandment from the Torah. To fulfill this joy, women should receive clothing or gifts that make them happy, children should be given sweets, and men are meant to have meat and wine. The Shavuot Challenge This brings us to a common challenge on Shavuot: Isn't Shavuot supposed to be a dairy holiday? The tradition to eat dairy does not mean your entire meal must be dairy, nor does it mean you can forget the mitzvah of eating meat. Ideally, one should eat meat both night and day on Yom Tov. If that is too difficult, the daytime meal is the more critical time for meat. How do you balance both dairy and meat? You must eat your dairy foods first. For example, you can have a dairy Kiddush or light meal in the morning when you return from Shul, and then eat your meat meal for lunch. Alternatively, you can eat a dairy lunch and then have a meat meal later in the afternoon before Mincha. The Spiritual Essence: Two Types of Joy Now, let's transition into our usual focus on Bitachon and the spiritual essence of the day. There are sources that suggest we do have a requirement of simcha (joy) on Shabbat. The Sifrei (Bamidbar 10:10), commenting on the verse "Uveyom Simchatchem" ("On the day of your gladness"), states that this phrase directly refers to Shabbat. The Baal HaTurim even finds a gematria (numerical hint) showing that the word Simchatchem ( שמחתכם ) has the exact same numerical value as Gam Beyom Hashabbat ( גם ביום השבת - "also on the day of Shabbat"). Furthermore, the Shibbolei HaLeket (Chapter 82) notes that we recite "Yismchu Bemalchutcha" ("They shall rejoice in Your kingship") in the Shabbat prayers based on this very concept. On the other hand, Tosafot (Moed Katan 23b) states that there is actually no formal requirement of simcha on Shabbat. The proof is that if someone, Heaven forbid, is in mourning, Shabbat counts as part of the Shiva mourning period, whereas a holiday puts mourning on hold. This is because you are not halachically obligated to actively rejoice on Shabbat; you are only forbidden from being visibly sad. So, how do we reconcile this? Is Shabbat a day of simcha or not? The Acharonim (later commentators) explain that there are two distinct types of joy: Yom Tov (External Joy): This requires outward actions of joy. You must actively do things that bring happiness, namely eating meat and drinking wine. Shabbat (Internal Joy): Shabbat is called Yom Simchatchem , meaning the day itself is inherently joyful. You do not need to perform external actions to force it; rather, the happiness resides naturally in your heart. Because Shabbat is a deeply spiritual day, its joy is internal. We say in the prayers, "V'yismechu b'cha Yisrael" —we rejoice in You . Our happiness on Shabbat is a direct connection to God. Practical Takeaway Rav Wolbe used to say that Shabbat is a day of pnimiyut —an internal world. Therefore, it requires no external performance. The joy of Shabbat is found in serenity, calm, and menuchat hanefesh (peace of mind). It is the quiet happiness of connecting deeply with Hakadosh Baruch Hu. The practical takeaway is that every single Shabbat, we should walk around feeling that this is our internal day of happiness. This week, we are blessed to experience Shabbat and Yom Tov coinciding. We have both of these beautiful concepts merging into one day—the outward celebration of the festival and the deep, serene intimacy of Shabbat. Have a Chag Sameach and a Shabbat Shalom!

My apologies. I get emotional I get fired up and I get very raw. This is Shavuot like you have never heard, because we are living with anti semitism like we have never heard. Its time we fight fire with Torah fire! Also Reb Aron Kutler makes a deal with Joe Bananas the Mobster, Enjoy and Chag Sameach. 

It's that time again...our favorite show of the year! Sure, Israel Hour Radio celebrates Israel EVERY week. But on Yom Ha'atzmaut, we get to play our favorite patriotic, blue and white, pride-inducing LOVE songs dedicated to the State of Israel! How many other countries regularly celebrate their nation with new songs, year after year? Only in Israel do the country's leading musicians create new songs of love for their homeland on a regular basis...and we can't get enough! Celebrate Israel's 78th birthday with a patriotic playlist of relatively new Israeli songs celebrating the wonders of the Jewish State! Chag Sameach! (Original Air Date: April 19, 2026) Full YouTube playlist at https://tinyurl.com/9ksbu758 Bring Josh Shron, 'Israel's Soundtrack Storyteller,' to your community, and help spread the joy of Israeli music around the world! Visit https://www.joshshron.com/ Love the show? Please help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://www.patreon.com/c/MyIsraeliMusic

B"H It is time to take the first step

B"H Who is the Messiah in Judaism

B"H Without converts, would we have left Egypt? Of course Hashem is the Redeemer. He runs the world and took us out of Mitzrayim. But look at how redemption unfolded. Two converts played a critical role in saving Moshe's life. Batya, the daughter of Pharaoh, defied everything and saved Moshe, gave him his name, and gave the world the one who would lead the redemption. And Yitro, who took Moshe in when his life was in danger, showed him kindness, and became his family. Redemption didn't just come from above. It came through the courage and kindness of people who chose to join the Jewish story. To every convert, and to anyone on that journey, your role is not extra. It's essential. Wishing you a Chag Sameach and that we see real miracles for Israel and the entire world. #Pesach #Passover #Jewishconversion #Jewishconvert #Judaism To watch Torah Thoughts in video format, click HERE Subscribe to the Torah Thoughts BLOG for exclusive written content! Please like, share and subscribe wherever you find this!

Good morning, afternoon, and evening! Chag Sameach and Happy Easter, y'all! Come sit by the desert campfire with Bodio, Kaylie, and Gibby to hear the story of The Prince of Egypt, Dreamworks' underrated masterpiece... wait, this thing is 28 years old? Are you for real? How is it so good? What makes it all click? And how did you forget it's a musical? Tune in and find out! Also included: a missing truck of KitKats, the new Isabelle and Doom Guy, and Bo laughing so hard, he dies (don't worry, he comes back in 3 days).

B"H Is enlightenment the goal in Judaism? It's only half the story. There is a real idea of rising higher, of inner freedom, of connecting to something beyond yourself, especially around Pesach. But Judaism doesn't stop there. It's not about escaping the world. It's about bringing something higher into the world. The Haggadah centers on teaching your children, caring for others, showing up in the smallest details. That's not separate from spirituality, that is spirituality. We can think it's all about big impact and big ideas, but Pesach reminds us that real depth is in how you live your daily life, how you treat people, how you show up at your table. True freedom is taking the highest places you reach and bringing them into the real world. That's the goal. Chag Sameach! #Pesach #Judaism #Spirituality #Torah #Passover To watch Torah Thoughts in video format, click HERE Subscribe to the Torah Thoughts BLOG for exclusive written content! Please like, share and subscribe wherever you find this!

B"H What is the message of Pesach in 2026? Freedom isn't just doing whatever you want. That's the beginning, what Rabbi Sacks zt'l called freedom from coercion. Real freedom is deeper. It's knowing what to do when no one is forcing you, how to use that space to serve Hashem. I see this in my work, and I feel it with Israel. We're fighting for freedom from war, from people trying to destroy us. But Pesach is pushing us further, to ask who we are beyond the war. Cheirut, freedom, is tied to charut, engraved on the luchot. Real freedom is becoming a people who can fully live, serve Hashem, and express our neshama in a world of shalom. We should merit safety, and then the freedom to become who we're meant to be. Chag Sameach! #Pesach #Israel #Freedom #Passover #Judaism To watch Torah Thoughts in video format, click HERE Subscribe to the Torah Thoughts BLOG for exclusive written content! Please like, share and subscribe wherever you find this!

Why is this Passover different from all others? This year, as we ask that ancient question around the seder table, the answer feels closer than ever...because this year, we're celebrating Pesach in the middle of war. Israelis are running to shelters day and night, and yet somehow, we're still singing. This week, we share Passover songs old and new - many of them fresh, modern interpretations of our most ancient Passover traditions, from the Four Questions to the splitting of the sea. If there's one thing Judaism has always taught us, it's that even in the darkest of times, we SING. Chag Sameach! (Original Air Date: March 29, 2026) Full YouTube playlist at https://tinyurl.com/hpyfysa5 Bring Josh Shron, 'Israel's Soundtrack Storyteller,' to your community, and help spread the joy of Israeli music around the world! Visit https://www.joshshron.com/ Love the show? Please help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership

Should it matter whether Yetziat Mitzrayim — the exodus of Israelites from Egypt, the defining story of the Passover seder that Jews around the world have retold for centuries — actually happened in the way the Torah describes?Twenty-five years ago, Rabbi David Wolpe posed this very question to his congregants — and it caused quite a stir. Now, a quarter century later, he sat down with Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman of Bar Ilan University, one of today's leading biblical scholars, to talk about the deeper truths behind the Exodus. Together, they probe the historicity of the biblical account, the enduring meaning of the story, and the timeless legacy of a narrative that is, ultimately, the closest approximation to a Jewish language of Aspiration.In that spirit, we hope this wide-ranging SAPIR Conversation enriches your Pesach Seder. From the SAPIR family to yours, wishing you and your loved ones a Happy Passover and Chag Sameach!Read the latest issue of SAPIR on ASPIRATION: sapirjournal.orgRead Dara Horn's essay, "How To Teach the Jewish Story": How to Teach the Jewish Story – SAPIR JournalMusic from #Uppbeat: ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/theo-gerard/monsieur-groove

B"H Converts are an incredible gift to the Jewish people. There's a beautiful idea from the Sefat Emet on Pesach. When the Torah says we left Mitzrayim with rechush gadol, great wealth, it's not just physical. It's spiritual. Part of that “wealth” was the souls of future converts, hidden within Egypt, waiting to be revealed and to join Am Yisrael. Even the letters hint to it. ג ר — ger. Geulah is not just about us returning. It's about gathering souls from all over the world who find their place within the Jewish people. Chag Sameach. #Pesach #Jewishconvert #Passover #Jewishconversion #Judaism To watch Torah Thoughts in video format, click HERE Subscribe to the Torah Thoughts BLOG for exclusive written content! Please like, share and subscribe wherever you find this!

Subscribe now to ditch the ads. Chag Sameach! Danny and Derek are joined by independent scholar Joseph Scales to talk about the history of Hanukkah. They discuss the rivalry between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires that preceded the conflict; the Maccabean/Hasmonean revolt and the family's ascension to power within Judea; the Judean expansion; and much more. Originally published November 27, 2021

Será que tudo na vida é questão de interpretação? A loira da piada te dá a resposta kkkkk. Você consegue virar a página rápido de algo ou alguém que te incomodou? Fazemos diferenças entre nossos filhos, consegue ser equilibrado? Chag Sameach!!! Um Chanucá de luz para você e a família!

How much do you want to dwell with G-d? Do you think G-d wants to spend time with you? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he highlights G-d's loving nature and how His desire to draw us near shines through on Shemini Atzeret stronger than ever. G-d loves you so much that He wants to tabernacle with you as you live out your life, so it is imperative to respond to such love by accepting that and deepening your connection to G-d. Chag Sameach!Leviticus 23.36; Leviticus 23.39; Numbers 29.36; Revelation 21.2-4; Isaiah 40.8Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

What is G-d calling you to do more of? What direction are you heading in? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he celebrates Rosh Hashanah by reflecting on the sometimes uncertain journey of Abraham that led to the Akedah. When G-d calls you to something, it can be very hard and answers will not always be apparent, but He will be with you every step of the way. Chag Sameach!Genesis 12.1-3; Genesis 12.10; Genesis 22.1-2; John 14.5-6Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

What is the purpose of tzitzit? Do you sometimes forget to have G-d's commands in mind? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he commemorates Shavuot and shares a mini-message about how a facet of tzitzit is uniquely connected to the Ruach. With the Ruach dwelling in us, it should always be a reminder to obey what the L-rd has told us to do with intention rather than as an afterthought. Chag Sameach!Numbers 15.37-40; John 14.25-26; John 16.13; Leviticus 23.37-38; Deuteronomy 16.9-12; Deuteronomy 26.1-10Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

In this meaningful conversation with Dr. Elana Stein Hain, we probe our individual spiritual biographies in search of what drew us into Torah life and a love of learning. We also reflect candidly about our roles as educators at work and in our homes. Chag Sameach!

The journey from Passover to Shavuot goes by way of the bridge of the days of counting the Omer. This last week of counting the Omer is all about declaring God to be King, and emulating Him through our every action...in preparation for reliving the Giving of the Torah on Mount Sinai, this upcoming Shavuot. Join Jim Long and Rabbi Chaim Richman for this week's pre-Shavuot episode of the Jerusalem Lights podcast, in great anticipation of the Sinai Revelation and a renewal of the covenant of Torah. It's all about human preparation, Divine revelation, and world transformation! Blessings of Chag Sameach, a Joyous Festival of Shavuot, from Jerusalem Lights! Lovingly Recorded in Ora Studios, Jerusalem Israel________Rabbi Chaim Richman Jerusalem Lights | Torah for Everyone Please support the work of Jerusalem Lights, Inc., a USA recognized 501 ( c ) 3 non-profit organization to enable these productions to continue and grow:PayPal: infojerusalemlights@gmail.com or: https://paypal.me/JerusalemLights?loc...In the USA: Jerusalem Lights Inc. Post Office Box 16886Lubbock Texas 79490In Israel: Tel. 972 54 7000395 Mail: PO Box 23808, Jerusalem IsraelSubscribe to our newsletter at https://www.rabbirichman.comSubscribe to our YouTube channel:    / jerusalemlightsrabbichaimrichman  Follow us on Facebook:   / rabbichaimrichman    / 282440396475839  

Chag Sameach! Shavuot, the annual festival of receiving Torah/revelation, is coming up soon. And that means.....ShavuotLIVE, Judaism Unbound's 24-consecutive-hour extravaganza of Jewish learning and Unlearning, is back and better than ever! Dan and Lex are joined in this episode by Annie Prusky, a Jewish educator and current rabbinical student who has presided over many of ShavuotLIVE's most popular sessions over the years. The three of them kibbitz about how Shavuot has evolved over the millennia and where ShavuotLIVE fits into that ongoing evolution.You can register for ShavuotLIVE 2025 via bit.ly/2025shavuot, and learn more about what it is by heading to JudaismUnbound.com/shavuot2025. It begins May 31st at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT and concludes on June 1st at 8 pm ET/5 pm PT.-----------------------------Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here! 

Happy Passover! Chag Sameach! The holiday known simultaneously as Pesach (Passover), Chag HaMatzot (Matzah-Fest), Z'man Cheruteinu (Time of our freedom), and Chag Ha-Aviv (Spring/Barley-Fest) has arrived. Dan Libenson and Lex Rofeberg, co-hosts of Judaism Unbound, are joined by guests Daniel Spiro and Marques Hollie for a conversation that explores how we can get more wacky and creative with our Passover seders (traditional ritualized Passover meals) -- along with how we might play with the rest of the holiday, once the seder(s) have concluded.-------------------For a whole library of Judaism Unbound's Passover resources, including past podcast episodes, digital afikoman hunts, seder supplements, videos, and more...just head to JudaismUnbound.com/passover.-------------------New UnYeshiva mini-courses, beginning just after Passover, are now open for registration! Learn more about Jewish Theology Unbound, Untangling Tselem Elohim, and Moses, Tzipporah and Us (Powerful Interfaith Families, Past and Present) by heading to JudaismUnbound.com/classes.Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!

We begin the Seder with the Ha Lachma Anya , which speaks about the matzah and ends with the words, "Now we are still in Galut. We hope to be in Eretz Yisrael with the Beit HaMikdash before next year's Seder." Rabbi Ronen Sharabani gave a beautiful explanation in his new Haggada Me'afar Kumi about why we begin with this. Chazal tell us that the final ge'ula will take place in the month of Nisan. So, when the month begins, all of Klal Yisrael is hoping to be in Yerushalayim with the Korban Pesach by the night of the Seder. However, if Lel HaSeder arrives and once again Mashiach has not come, it could cause a person to enter the Seder with feelings of despair, thinking: "We've made this request of L'shanah Haba'ah B'Yerushalayim every year of our entire lives—and it still hasn't happened. What's going to give us chizuk to think that things will ever change?" For this, the Rabbis tell us to begin the Seder speaking about the matza. The Seforno writes on the pasuk describing Yosef Hatzaddik being rushed out of prison that this is the way of all salvations that Hashem brings—they come in an instant. Even when it looks like there's no hope in sight, things can suddenly change. And this is what happened in Mitzrayim. The pasuk says they were rushed out of Egypt without enough time for their dough to rise. Matza is the symbol of an instant salvation. And so it says about the future geula : פתאום יבוא אל היכלו —Mashiach is going to come suddenly. When we internalize that the salvations of Hashem come in an instant, we will never despair, because we know everything can change in a moment's notice. What we see today has nothing to do with tomorrow—and the same applies to the difficulties people are currently experiencing. No matter how long it's been, no matter how dismal it seems, salvation can always come in an instant. A woman told me she got married about twenty years ago and was looking forward to a joyful home filled with children. After seven long years of waiting for their miracle, they were blessed with a precious daughter who indeed filled their hearts with the joy they had hoped for. For years after that, they tried every possible method to have another child, but it wasn't working. They delved deeply into learning and practicing emunah , and then, with the advice of their rabbi, they decided to take a pause from all their efforts and instead focus on enjoying the life they had. Especially since they were making so many efforts, they risked attributing success or failure to their own actions rather than to Hashem. They spent a year focusing more on spirituality, adopting a healthier lifestyle, eating better, exercising regularly, and appreciating everything Hashem had already given them. Then they went back to the doctor to try another treatment. Everything was looking good. They were awaiting results from a certain test, and when the results came back positive, they were thrilled. Even the doctor was elated. He told them they needed to repeat the test two more times. The second time, the numbers were even better. But on the third test, the results took a turn the other way. After eight long years of waiting for their second child, it appeared that once again they were going to be let down. That night, they called a hotline for emunah , and amazingly, there was a story shared about a childless couple who had been told by their doctor that they would never have children. The husband went for a drive afterward to clear his mind, and when he returned home, he found that his wife had set the table with their finest china. She told him, "We're going to celebrate all we have, despite the sorrowful news." The next morning, at 5 a.m., they received a phone call from the fertility clinic saying it had been a mistake—and that she actually was going to have a child after all. This woman and her husband took that story as a direct message from Hashem. They picked themselves up and enjoyed that Shabbat more than ever. They sang with their 8-year-old miracle girl. They expressed gratitude and celebrated all the blessings that Hashem had given them. That Motzaei Shabbat , they went for another test, and amazingly, everything changed for the better. Baruch Hashem , that year, they were blessed with their second miracle baby. The salvations of Hashem always come in an instant. This is the chizuk we give ourselves at the beginning of the Seder, and this is something we must always keep in mind. B'ezrat Hashem , we should see the Geula Shelema and celebrate this holiday in Yerushalayim with the Korban Pesach. But even if that doesn't happen— even then —it doesn't mean the geula can't come a second later. Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach.

Chag Sameach! Rabbis Lebovitz and Feinstein discuss the differences between the Exodus narrative as we read in the Torah and the Passover story we read in the Haggadah. They also give their best tips for a great Seder!Enjoying the podcast? Support VBS at vbs.org/donateGo to vbs.org/podcast for more information.

There is a cosmic connection between the Book of Exodus and the Book of Esther. Rabbis Lebovitz and Feinstein explore that connection in this Purim-themed episode. Chag Sameach!Enjoying the podcast? Support Valley Beth Shalom at vbs.org/donateFor more information about Valley Beth Shalom, please visit www.VBS.org. Please LIKE this video and SHARE it with your friends and loved ones.

Have you ever gone through a dark time in your life? Has G-d felt far at times? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he recounts the storm around last year's Simchat Torah, and how we can rely on the Word of G-d to ground us as it is an immutable and unchanging way to seek the L-rd. Scripture has proven true yesterday, today, and will tomorrow, so lean upon G-d in this way when He feels distant. Chag Sameach!Leviticus 23.36; Leviticus 23.39; Psalm 42.6-9; John 1.1; Amos 9.11; Isaiah 40.8; John 8.31-32; Psalm 119.11Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Jim Long and Rabbi Chaim Richman invite you into their respective sukkot as they celebrate the joyous festival with Torah insights, and prepare for the upcoming annual reset of our weekly Torah readings, with a timely and fascinating discussion of the Torah portion of B'reishith. Chag Sameach, blessings for a joyous Sukkot to all! _________ Rabbi Chaim Richman Jerusalem Lights | Torah for Everyone Please support the work of Jerusalem Lights, Inc., a USA recognized 501 ( c ) 3 non-profit organization to enable these productions to continue and grow: PayPal: infojerusalemlights@gmail.com or: https://paypal.me/JerusalemLights?loc... In the USA: Jerusalem Lights Inc. Post Office Box 16886 Lubbock Texas 79490 In Israel: Tel. 972 54 7000395 Mail: PO Box 23808, Jerusalem Israel Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.rabbirichman.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel:    / jerusalemlightsrabbichaimrichman   Follow us on Facebook:   / rabbichaimrichman  

One of the names that the Torah gives the holiday of Sukkot is Chag Ha'asif, the holiday of gathering. Seemingly, gathering describes the time period in which the holiday falls out in, being that this is the time of year that landowners would gather their crops from their fields. If that's the case, why would a description of the time period become so significant to become one of the names of the holiday? Obviously, there is more to it. The Be'er HaParasha quoted the Rashbam on the pasuk, למען ידעו דורותיכם כי בסוכות הושבתי , who says, by remembering how Hashem took care of all the Jewish people's needs for 40 years in the desert, they would continue thanking Him when they settled the land with beautiful homes filled with bounty. Then they would not think that it was their strength that enabled them to settle the land, and it was their craftsmanship that built their homes. This pasuk, which commands us to sit in the sukkah, is alluding to the fact that we have to remember that everything we have is only because Hashem gives it to us. This message is so important specifically at this time of year, when the landowner sees how much yield his fields produced, at a time when he is susceptible to feeling haughty over what he accomplished. The Torah reminds him that all of his blessing only comes from Hashem. This is one of the reasons why Sukkot is called the Chag HaAsif. It is not just describing the time period, but is rather helping us stay humble and appreciate Hashem during this time of gathering. It is obvious that Hashem gives us everything we have, but the Yetzer Hara makes it not so obvious. Something could be staring a person right in the face, but he doesn't realize it because he gets sidetracked. The Be'er HaParasha gave him a mashal to explain. There was a wealthy man transporting dirt over the border from a neighboring country. When the border patrol asked him about it, he said he was building a new home and needed dirt for it. They told him there was plenty of dirt in his country and didn't need dirt from a different country. He said that this dirt was much better. They didn't believe him. They thought he was smuggling valuables like gold and silver under the dirt and trying to avoid the taxes. So they ordered their inspectors to sift through all of the dirt. In the end they didn't find anything and let the truck load through. This repeated itself every single day for months. Every day he would transport dirt and every day the inspectors would search and find nothing. Finally the wealthy man said his house was completed and wasn't going to need any more dirt. The head of the border patrol asked this man what he was hiding for all these months. It couldn't be that he just needed dirt. The wealthy man told him, if you sign a letter saying I'll never have to pay tax for it, then I'll tell you. He signed the letter, and the wealthy man told him he was transporting brand new trucks every day but he sidetracked them with the dirt. So too, we work hard and we earn money and the Yeser Harah tells us it was our hard work that produced the money. But we must not get fooled. It's only Hashem. Baruch Hashem, another one of our enemies has been eliminated. It happened accidentally and reportedly accomplished by soldiers that were trainees. This is Hashem reminding us that He is in charge and when He decides an enemy will be eliminated, that's when it will happen. We pray that Hashem will decide to end the fighting with all of our enemies being eradicated and allow us to celebrate the coming of the Mashiach. Amen. Chag Sameach.

Chag Sameach! Sukkot is known as “Zman Simchatenu” – the time of our joy. But after the year we've had – and with the yahrtzeit of those who lost their lives on October 7 coming up this week - joy is not so easy to come by nowadays. Still, we're going to try to lift your spirits just a bit this holiday by playing Israeli songs that can INSTANTLY put a smile on your face. Some songs can magically transform your day, after just a few notes. Thanks to our wonderful Israeli Music Community on Facebook, we've curated a playlist of Israeli songs that are sure to help you smile through the pain - and just maybe, that's exactly what we need as we approach Simchat Torah 5784. (Original Air Date: October 20, 2024) Full playlist at https://www.myisraelimusic.com/episode1206 Love the show? Please help us grow by becoming a member of MyIsraeliMusic.com: https://myisraelimusic.com/membership Join the Israeli Music Community on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/groups/IsraelHourRadioFans/

Happy Sukkot! Chag Sameach! The 7-day-long festival of Sukkot is here, and Dan and Lex welcome Joseph Altshuler and Ethan Blake — both founders of local Sukkah festivals celebrating creative design and architecture — to explore what this festival can teach us.Head to JudaismUnbound.com/classes to check out our upcoming 8-week courses in the UnYeshiva! Explore Jewish communities around the world, gender in Judaism, Maimonides's (Rambam's) theology, fierce women in Torah, and more!Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!

Why is Sukkot important? Have you spent time in a desert in your life? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he encourages us to trust in G-d even when we may be struggling, as it reduces aimless wandering because He loves us and wants to show us the way. Even through discipline, the L-rd will sustain you on your journey if you abide in Him. Chag Sameach!Leviticus 23.41-43; Numbers 14.20-24; Deuteronomy 8.2-10; Revelation 21.2-5Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Fresh from the exhilarating restart of Yom Kippur, the nation of Israel prepares to enter into a Divine hug of the temporary booth, the Sukkah, for seven days. What is the secret power of the Sukkah, that brings us to a pinnacle of joy, even as it reminds us that we are all only temporary dwellers on this earth? Jim Long and Rabbi Chaim Richman prepare for the Festival of Sukkot and reflect on its prophetic significance not only for Israel, but for all the nations of the world. The Festival of Sukkot will be observed beginning the evening of 14 Tishrei - October 16, 2024. Chag Sameach, blessings for a joyous festival to all! _________ Rabbi Chaim Richman Jerusalem Lights | Torah for Everyone Please support the work of Jerusalem Lights, Inc., a USA recognized 501 ( c ) 3 non-profit organization to enable these productions to continue and grow: PayPal: infojerusalemlights@gmail.com or: https://paypal.me/JerusalemLights?loc... In the USA: Jerusalem Lights Inc. Post Office Box 16886 Lubbock Texas 79490 In Israel: Tel. 972 54 7000395 Mail: PO Box 23808, Jerusalem Israel Subscribe to our newsletter at https://www.rabbirichman.com Subscribe to our YouTube channel:    / jerusalemlightsrabbichaimrichman   Follow us on Facebook:   / rabbichaimrichman  

Have any questions, insights, or feedback? Send me a text!Mishlei 16:12 - Why Kings Should Abhor Acts of Wickednessתּוֹעֲבַת מְלָכִים עֲשׂוֹת רֶשַׁע, כִּי בִצְדָקָה יִכּוֹן כִּסֵּא:Length: 1 hour 30 minutesSynopsis: This evening (10/14/24), in our Monday Night Mishlei shiur, we learned another pasuk in this local cluster of pesukim about kings. This one seemed obvious to some, but ended up yielding fruitful ideas about leadership and the relationship between their morality and the morality of the people they rule.-----מקורות:משלי טז:יבתרגום רס"גמצודת ציון/דודמלבי"םרבינו יונהרלב"ג-----The Torah content from now through Isru Chag has been sponsored by Dani Kuznicki, to honor the memory of his mother, Zisel Gittel bas Moshe (a"h), who appreciated the beauty, clarity, and inspiration of Rabbi Schneeweiss's shiurim. Tizku l'mitzvos and Chag Sameach!-----If you've gained from what you've learned here, please consider contributing to my Patreon at www.patreon.com/rabbischneeweiss. Alternatively, if you would like to make a direct contribution to the "Rabbi Schneeweiss Torah Content Fund," my Venmo is @Matt-Schneeweiss, and my Zelle and PayPal are mattschneeweiss at gmail. Even a small contribution goes a long way to covering the costs of my podcasts, and will provide me with the financial freedom to produce even more Torah content for you.If you would like to sponsor a day's or a week's worth of content, or if you are interested in enlisting my services as a teacher or tutor, you can reach me at rabbischneeweiss at gmail. Thank you to my listeners for listening, thank you to my readers for reading, and thank you to my supporters for supporting my efforts to make Torah ideas available and accessible to everyone.-----Substack: rabbischneeweiss.substack.com/Patreon: patreon.com/rabbischneeweissYouTube Channel: youtube.com/rabbischneeweissInstagram: instagram.com/rabbischneeweiss/"The Stoic Jew" Podcast: thestoicjew.buzzsprout.com"Machshavah Lab" Podcast: machshavahlab.buzzsprout.com"The Mishlei Podcast": mishlei.buzzsprout.com"Rambam Bekius" Podcast: rambambekius.buzzsprout.com"The Tefilah Podcast": tefilah.buzzsprout.comOld Blog: kolhaseridim.blogspot.com/WhatsApp Content Hub (where I post all my content and announce my public classes): https://chat.whatsapp.com/GEB1EPIAarsELfHWuI2k0HAmazon Wishlist: amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/Y72CSP86S24W?ref_=wl_sharel

This Wednesday evening service marked the start of Rosh Hashanah meaning, "The head or beginning of the year." This was a wonderful Rosh Hashanah service as we focused attention on our God as King and Messiah Yeshua as Savior and Redeemer. We also welcomed a special guest, Louis Lapides, the founder of Beth Ariel. The High Holy Day season is a season when the Jewish people are to focus on repentance, redemption and atonement.Rabbi Gary teaches from Genesis 22, the story of Abraham and Isaac. This story was just one of many examples of how one demonstrates one's faith in the Lord.Included: Liturgy, Responsive Reading, Torah Readings, Message, Blowing the ShofarYouTube: https://youtube.com/live/XM7Qn3z7wYISend us a text

Briyah just returned from the fantastic Green Shoe Foundation in Oklahoma. Bad news is her rental car was plummeted by hail. Good news is she received incredible healing and will now totally be able to re-parent herself after all the Mother Hunger (read the book)! Briyah and Michael talk about what this all has to do with teshuvah (repentance) and the New Year. Chag Sameach to everyone and we wish you a meaningful holiday. Hopefully we have given you some themes to keep in mind.

Chag Sameach! Happy Rosh Hashanah/Yom Teruah/Feast of Trumpets! This is a series I did for an online conference back when I was younger and thinner and not hacking up a lung. Just kidding, my lungs are right where they belong but they aren't happy about it. Since I am under the weather this year in a big way (I shouldn't hug and kiss sick people but that's why I get everything that comes through this house), I decided to pull this out of my online conference archives and publish it. Parts 2 and 3 about Yom Kippur and Sukkot coming soon! Transcript: https://theancientbridge.com/2024/09/episode-191-tishri-1-and-the-great-cosmic-kingship-reset/ YouTube: https://youtu.be/YeXP5evLieI

When it comes to our physical needs, we are encouraged to make a basic effort and then rely on Hashem for the results. We know we'll never lose out by making the hishtadlut that Hashem wants us to make. In the business world, many people might say if you don't cut corners and bend some rules you won't be able to make money. We say, we don't need to deceive or lie to earn parnasa. Hashem decides who gets what, and if we follow His rules we'll always get everything that's meant for us to get. We make a basic effort according to halacha, and then we trust that Hashem will send what He wants us to have. Yet, when it comes to our spiritual lives, we are encouraged to make as much of an effort as possible. If we want to know Torah, we can't make a bare minimum effort and say, “Hashem will put the knowledge in my brain.” When we go to buy tefillin or an etrog, we can't just go into the first store and say, “I did my hishtadlut, I know Hashem is going to give me the best one.” In matters of spirituality, we have to give a hundred and ten percent effort. This is the purpose for which we were created. Rabbi Menashe Reizman brought a question from Rav Hirsch of Riminov. It seems from Chazal that before Matan Torah , the other mountains were all making superior efforts to have the Torah given upon them. That is a spiritual endeavor. If so, why did Har Sinai not make the same efforts? And why was Har Sinai chosen if it didn't make those same efforts? One explanation is that Har Sinai understood that here Hashem preferred humility. And once someone is doing what Hashem wants, then even in spirituality, he can be zocheh to free gifts. If someone makes the effort to set aside time to learn and has a real desire to understand and know what he's learning. But finally, when he sits down and turns off his phone and opens the sefer , someone comes in and tells him he's needed to do a mitzvah that nobody else could perform, which according to halachah means he has to get up and do it. There he can have bitachon in Hashem, the One who commanded him to do the mitzvah and say, He will help him know what he wants to learn by giving him extra Heavenly help the next time he learns to grasp the material and remember it. The Chatam Sofer once said Avraham Avinu was able to see things in the stars beyond what others could see. He was able to connect to Hashem on another level. He could have sat alone all day and connected to Hashem on the highest levels, but instead he chose to take care of guests and bring others closer to Hashem. He understood, that is what Hashem preferred for him to do. And that is why it says, המכסה אני מאברהם אשר אני עושה ? - When Hashem was going to destroy Sedom, he said, “How could I do so before telling Abraham about it?” Abraham could have found out this information by meditating and connecting to Me, but instead he was busy with people. So Hashem said, should Avraham lose out because he was doing My will? I'm still going to connect to him and I'm still going to tell him what I'm about to do. It says in the pasuk that we have a mitzvah to teach our children Torah. Anybody who is yearning to reach higher levels in Torah study understands the value of every minute that can be used to delve deeper into Torah. One may think, “If I take away time from my learning to learn the basics with my son I may lose out.” This is where we have bitachon in Hashem and say, if we're doing His will we'll never lose out on anything. He'll give us more siyata d'Shamaya in our learning because we took out time to do what He wants. The Chassidim HaRishonim used to spend nine hours a day in tefila. The Gemara asks, if so, how were they able to be knowledgeable in Torah? The Gemara answers that Hashem blessed their Torah learning and they were able to accomplish in their short amount of learning what would normally take other people's hours to accomplish. If someone spends time trying to learn one subject of Torah and his evil inclination tells him, if you're working so hard to learn this one little thing, you'll never become a talmid chacham, there's so much more to learn. To this we say נפש עמל עמלה לו - When you toil in one area of Torah, then when you learn another, the first toil will help you learn the second subject easier. Hashem helps us in so many ways with our spirituality. It is true we have to put in as much effort as possible in Torah, but if it's the will of Hashem to do a different particular mitzvah, we'll never lose out on any other spiritual gain Chag Sameach .

A D'var Torah on the holiday of Shavuot. Chag Sameach!

This is a MUST LISTEN dvar Torah before Shavuot by Tehila Gimpel. She is arguably one of the most insightful and enlightening Torah teachers in the world today. Enjoy!!! Chag Sameach!!! Join The Land of Israel Fellowship and gain access to all the Bible teachings from Judea and receive your personal invitation to join the exclusive live online gatherings with families around the world every week. To join go to: secured.israelgives.org/pay/Fellowship

On this week's Israel Uncensored, Josh Hasten discusses Israel's Memorial Day - Yom Hazikaron, which this year carries many fresh wounds following the October 7, massacre. He also discusses the Biden Administration's decision to impose an arms embargo against the Jewish State in the middle of a just war to defeat Hamas evil. Prime Minister Netanyahu insists that Israel will finish off Hamas, on our own, if necessary. Plus, Israel gears up for Independence Day - Yom Ha'azmaut even as the war wages on, with Israeli troops now fighting in Rafah and in other parts of Gaza. Chag Sameach to all! Photo Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Yom_Hazikaron_2022_XV.jpeg

When have you felt opposed in life? Have things just not quite worked out? Join Rabbi Kevin Solomon of Congregation Beth Hallel as he encourages us to remain steadfast in our battles, even if a resolution does not immediately arrive. Moses and Peter exemplify how a mature spiritual perspective can allow us to remain strong in tough times because they knew that G-d was fighting for them. Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom!Matthew 16.21-23; Exodus 1.6-14; Exodus 5.6-9; Exodus 5.21-23; Exodus 6.1; Exodus 14.11-14Prayer Requests or send an email to info@bethhallel.orgCBH WebsiteDonateYouTube Channel

Passover begins at sunset Monday, April 22nd and ends at nightfall on Tuesday, April 30th.   What is the Seder meal? How do you celebrate it properly? Rabbi Schneider shares the step-by-step experience and traditions of the Seder meal, what it means, why it's for Christians and Jews, and the 3 biblical elements to include (matzah, bitter herbs, and lamb). Jesus has become our Passover. Think on the things Jesus has already delivered you from and thank Him. If you don't know Jesus, you can know Him now because Jesus is the final Deliverer.  Chag Sameach!   Visit our website at DiscoveringTheJewishJesus.com

This weekend at Columbia and Yale, student demonstrators told Jewish students to “go back to Poland.” A Jewish woman at Yale was assaulted with a Palestinian flag. And an Orthodox rabbi at Columbia told students to go home for their safety.  Demonstrators on these campuses shouted: “Say it loud and say it clear, we don't want no Zionists here.” In one chant at Columbia, the protesters were heard saying “Go Hamas, we love you. We support your rockets, too.” and “We say justice, you say how? Burn Tel Aviv to the ground.” These campus activists are not simply “pro-Palestine” protesters. They are people who are openly celebrating Hamas and physically intimidating identifiably Jewish students who came near. We published the accounts of two of those students—Sahar Tartak and Jonathan Lederer—today. Students—all of us—have a right to protest. We have a right to protest for dumb causes and horrible causes. At The Free Press, we will always defend that right. (See here and here, for example.) It is not, however, a First Amendment right to physically attack another person. It is not a First Amendment right to detain another person as part of your protest.  The institutions that are supposed to be dedicated to the pursuit of truth have not only abandoned their mission—they have stood by and done nothing meaningful to condemn students who support terrorism, or to stop the horrific scenes of the past 48 hours.  In fact, at Columbia they have done quite the opposite: on Monday morning the president announced that she is moving classes online. If that's not cowering to the mob, I don't know what is. Meanwhile, the NYPD has offered to help secure the safety of Jews on campus, but so far the president of Columbia has refused to let them on campus. Since the very founding of America, this country has been a unique place for the Jewish people. That is because of America's exceptional ideals and our willingness to defend them.  But in the past six months these core American beliefs, once deemed immutable, have been challenged in ways that were previously unimaginable, as a rising wave of antisemitism and illiberalism have swept the country—a wave that was put on full display over the last few days, at the country's most elite and prestigious universities. Jews around the world are about to celebrate the holiday of Passover—otherwise known as the festival of freedom. But what does it mean this year to commemorate our freedom, when our freedom feels like it is contracting before our eyes? How can we defend the original principles that underpin our society? How can we find the courage to do so? A few months ago, I gave a speech at the 92Y called “The State of World Jewry,” where I addressed these very questions. I argued that the state of world Jewry depends on the state of the free world. Right now, its condition is in jeopardy. Our holiday from history is over. For those celebrating Passover, Chag Sameach. And as we say at the Passover seder, “Next year, may we all be free.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Israel waiting until after Pesach to deliver its real retaliation against Iran?  Both Steve and I had externally shut down at about the 16.30 mark in the second half.  Please take note of the topic we were discussing.  Evidently, we were too close to ...  Please pray for protection.  Is mass media finally admitting that Ukraine doesn't stand a chance against Russia?  Was it all about phenomenal amounts of US taxpayer funding (to whom?) and the depletion of armament reserves of western nations?  Can you feel an uneasiness?  Please be in prayer and under the wing as we approach a time of the separation of the sheep and goats.  Chag Sameach. Oct 7 inside job, most comprehensive documentary I've come across, a must-see: https://rumble.com/v4l4oqw-october-7-was-an-inside-job-documentary-2024.html Rancher's report on mRNA test “vaccination” of his hogs: https://needtoknow.news/2024/04/american-rancher-blows-whistle-on-mrna-vaccine-tests-in-livestock/ New Scottish no “hate” speech law debacle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOTmuT2mkhM Vaxx injuries lower in blue states, targeted genocide?: https://lionessofjudah.substack.com/p/covid-vaccine-deaths-and-severe-illnesses? Please pray for those who think they're sheep but are being lead by goats: https://youtu.be/poh4uofuGqw?si=bKuv2YkQE_ZPUVUo Well the red heifer be sacrificed in secret after the “AGREEMENT TO DIVIDE THE LAND”?: https://youtu.be/vz4bWB_j3uM?si=EX6xfsRVRLO-orDf Air BnB's for June 6 and later: https://substack.com/app-link/post?publication_id=870364&post_id=143359411&utm_source=post-email-title&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=12g59e&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjo2NDU3ODcyMiwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTQzMzU5NDExLCJpYXQiOjE3MTI3NTgwNTMsImV4cCI6MTcxNTM1MDA1MywiaXNzIjoicHViLTg3MDM2NCIsInN1YiI6InBvc3QtcmVhY3Rpb24ifQ.yy2zrcfQ8OGpm4uHdwEuwYXfDVrks0JdrzT42R0k-vM Massive death/illness in wake of vaxx update: https://substack.com/app-link/post?publication_id=400535&post_id=143601096&utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email&utm_content=share&utm_campaign=email-share&action=share&triggerShare=true&isFreemail=false&r=12g59e&token=eyJ1c2VyX2lkIjo2NDU3ODcyMiwicG9zdF9pZCI6MTQzNjAxMDk2LCJpYXQiOjE3MTMxODkxNzYsImV4cCI6MTcxNTc4MTE3NiwiaXNzIjoicHViLTQwMDUzNSIsInN1YiI6InBvc3QtcmVhY3Rpb24ifQ.4EhkhFDi7HEY4ExiGUMyUJWlt57QwkG2WTwnkVSaFJM Biden gifted Iran $80 billion: https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/04/never-forget-joe-biden-gifted-iran-80-billion/? C19 vaxxes increase cancer 14,000%: https://slaynews.com/news/cdc-covid-shots-caused-14000-increase-cancers/? Bar Yousef Canal: https://youtube.com/shorts/7i5lwW4LP_I?si=BVsYtvLF0exJJfMZ

Qatar says reevaluating role as hostage negotiator; Israelis start seeing downed Iranian missiles around the country and in the Dead Sea; a list of twelve hostages and their qualities as told by their families and friends. Plus! A Torah thought from Rabbi Yossi Madvig ahead of Passover. Chag Sameach! Israel Daily News website: https://israeldailynews.org Israel Daily News Roundtable: https://www.patreon.com/shannafuld Support our Wartime News Coverage: https://www.gofundme.com/f/independent-journalist-covering-israels-war Links to all things IDN:⁠ https://linktr.ee/israeldailynews⁠ Music: Shabatot v'Chagim; Yaara Shaulian https://open.spotify.com/track/5un6lexs0vAS1y7jBenn5b?si=9bba9d63d39648c4 --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/israeldailynews/support

Passover is just around the corner! Rabbi Lebovitz and Rabbi Feinstein talk about the Haggadah, the meaning of the four children section of the seder and what will be on their minds this Passover. Chag Sameach! For more information, go to VBS.org/Podcast.

Back in October, Ashley came across a Medium story written in the aftermath of the Hamas terrorist attacks: “To Be A Jew” by Rachel Wegner.As Ashley read the first line–“I believe in the power of stories to bring people together, to build bridges and to create connection”–she stopped in her tracks. She had jotted down almost the exact same words during a previous conversation with our executive producer Betsy Bloom. The universe was sending a powerful message: reach out to Rachel to see if she would share her story on the pod. Long story, short: she generously agreed, and we are thrilled to now share it with you. The Jewish holiday of Passover– which commemorates the Israelites' freedom from slavery in Egypt– begins at sundown on Monday, April 22nd and ends the evening of Tuesday, April 30th. It is a time of reflection and celebration, an opportunity to be together in community to acknowledge an ancient, complicated history and lift each other up with unrelenting hope for a future where all people are fully free. In this episode, we explore Rachel's personal struggle with modern-day othering and her internal quest for freedom while also rejoicing in the moments that bring her light and keep her hope for a future of true togetherness alive.We hope this episode inspires you to build your own bridges of connection, be they across the table or across the aisle. Chag Sameach! --About Rachel Wegner: "I am an educator and school leader with over 20 years of experience teaching and leading in schools. I believe education is freedom and it is the key to the Jewish concept of "tikkun olam" - repairing the world. When we know, love and serve students fully, we create the next generation of learners, leaders and listeners who believe in their abilities and have the skills to create change. I am passionate about equity work and it is at the center of what I do, what I believe in and what I have come to see as the most important work there is. I believe dialogue founded on trust, intentionality and vulnerability has the power to rebuild dysfunctional systems and structures so everyone has an opportunity to live their most meaningful life." Thanks as always for listening and being a part of our community. You can watch all our episodes and find bonus content on our YouTube channel. Questions, ideas or feedback? Email: ashley@yourmom.co.

MAURA QUINT & CHARLES STAR get trapped going ROUND AND ROUND (2023) with us, but... Shut up, kids, it's the second episode of Hanukkah! THEME: "Fuck You If You Don't Like Christmas," from Crudbump, by Drew Fairweather PART ONE  Chag Sameach ... We regret the errors ... It's good! ... Jew Belong meets war ... Good movie crammed into Hallmark, better than Christmas fare ... Crying at The Rock, Actually ... Jade   PART TWO   Cast Rundown ... The Expositional Challenge ... Plot Mop-Up: Maura's Monologue; dreidel-dependent f*ckups; dating-help time loop ... Nerd cred ... Your boyfriend/son will explain the nerd thing ... Fake Londoner, Comic Guy ... Double the characters, all matter ... Ashkenazi word load ... Format tweaking, references on the meta knife edge ... Which twist? Who knew? ... Can't hang (with) the DJ ... Jobbed mom ... Welcome back to Bar Mitzvah Chat      PART THREE  Spot the Angel: Grandma/Busker/Santa? ... Spot the Bard ... Eat Your Heart Out: Food-lite; plot/reality-proportional; "Hanukkah on Rye" callback; Jews as human ... Sufganiyot (reprise): Childhood, Israel, politics, inaccuracy ... Signifying body blows ... People, 2030 ... Blue Christmas ... Candles ... Latke assembly ... No superlatives ... Wine complaint ... Secular Jews, pls PART FOUR  Hallmark Expanded Universe: Hanukkah on Rye ... Overdetermined: London-Nerd hookup vs. Time-loop revelations vs. Rachel's nerd cred/purpose/attitude ... Self-uncanny valleying ... Tropes as prison, not skeleton ... Curving tropes in on themselves ... Uncanny to movies, not humanity ... Crossover: Too real; a $10m budget and 30 days; Hellraiser; Granddad Groundhog Day; all Groundhog Days PART FIVE The Hallmark Voight-Kampff Test: Grandpa; the most Methodist mom ... Rating: 5 ... The Leftovers: Jammed-in Santa ... Coda ... Almost famous ... Inclusive casting ... Bryan Greenberg, Rick Hoffman, and Vic Michaelis Appreciation Station ... Feelings at movie scale ... Real pillow-face ... Bears tight end ... Stay off the tollways ... Minion gifs ... Subway signage ... Two-hour novel revision ... Mixtapes ... 7 days ... IMDB Dive: Tamar Laddy ... Merry Christmas!   All other music by Chris Collingwood of Look Park and Fountains of Wayne, except: "Orchestral Sports Theme" by Chris Collingwood and Rick Murnane, "Schlep the Halls with Loaves of Challah," by The Three Weissmen and "[I'm Spending] Hanukkah in Santa Monica," by Tom Lehrer.

Chag Sameach! Danny and Derek are joined by independent scholar Joseph Scales to talk about the history of Hanukkah. They discuss the rivalry between the Seleucid and Ptolemaic empires that preceded the conflict; the Maccabean/Hasmonean revolt and the family's ascension to power within Judea; the Judean expansion; and much more.Originally published November 27, 2021 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.americanprestigepod.com/subscribe