Podcasts about chief rabbinate

Rav Yoni Rosensweig is rabbi of the Netzach Menashe community in Beit Shemesh and is a renowned teacher of Halakha, Gemara and Jewish thought. From 2006-2009 he served as Rosh Kollel of the Mizrahi community in Melbourne, Australia. Upon his return, he headed Yeshivat Hamivtar, and then became Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Shevut Yisrael in Efrat, a post which he held until 2016. He currently teaches at Midreshet Lindenbaum. Rav Yoni has semikha from Rav Nachum Eliezer Rabinovitch and from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and degrees in education, philosophy and history. He is the author of “Yishrei Lev,” a three-volume responsa on different halakhic questions, and of “Conversations in Essence,” in which he engages in imaginary dialogue with great Jewish thinkers from the past. Rabbi Rosensweig is the author of several books including the recent Nafshi Beshe'elati on Jewish law and mental health. In this interview we will mostly focus on halacha and its flexibility having to do with mental health.

Rav Yoni Rosensweig is rabbi of the Netzach Menashe community in Beit Shemesh and is a renowned teacher of Halakha, Gemara and Jewish thought. From 2006-2009 he served as Rosh Kollel of the Mizrahi community in Melbourne, Australia. Upon his return, he headed Yeshivat Hamivtar, and then became Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Shevut Yisrael in Efrat, a post which he held until 2016. He currently teaches at Midreshet Lindenbaum. Rav Yoni has semikha from Rav Nachum Eliezer Rabinovitch and from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and degrees in education, philosophy and history. He is the author of “Yishrei Lev,” a three-volume responsa on different halakhic questions, and of “Conversations in Essence,” in which he engages in imaginary dialogue with great Jewish thinkers from the past. Rabbi Rosensweig is the author of several books including the recent Nafshi Beshe'elati on Jewish law and mental health. In this interview we will mostly focus on halacha and its flexibility having to do with mental health.

With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance. Join us as we speak with Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom about his recent commentary, Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric (Maggid, 2024). Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus (Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus (IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption (IVP Academic, 2020), and a recent 2 volume commentary on Numbers. He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance. Join us as we speak with Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom about his recent commentary, Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric (Maggid, 2024). Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus (Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus (IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption (IVP Academic, 2020), and a recent 2 volume commentary on Numbers. He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance. Join us as we speak with Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom about his recent commentary, Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric (Maggid, 2024). Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus (Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus (IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption (IVP Academic, 2020), and a recent 2 volume commentary on Numbers. He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/israel-studies

With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance. Join us as we speak with Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom about his recent commentary, Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric (Maggid, 2024). Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus (Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus (IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption (IVP Academic, 2020), and a recent 2 volume commentary on Numbers. He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/poetry

With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance. Join us as we speak with Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom about his recent commentary, Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric (Maggid, 2024). Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus (Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus (IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption (IVP Academic, 2020), and a recent 2 volume commentary on Numbers. He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

With timeless poetry and stunning imagery, the prophet Amos of Tekoa, a simple herdsman from the Judean mountains, stands in front of a stubborn, antagonistic audience of Israelite royalty and aristocracy and he rebukes them for their many abuses of power. But he offers them a better vision of themselves by lifting them to the heavens on wings of lyrical brilliance. Join us as we speak with Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom about his recent commentary, Amos: The Genius of Prophetic Rhetoric (Maggid, 2024). Rabbi Yitzchak Etshalom has been a dynamic and inspiring master educator in Los Angeles since 1984. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, and lectures annually at the prestigious Tanakh Study Days at Herzog College. Etshalom has also written the highly acclaimed series Between the Lines. Michael Morales is Professor of Biblical Studies at Greenville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and the author of The Tabernacle Pre-Figured: Cosmic Mountain Ideology in Genesis and Exodus (Peeters, 2012), Who Shall Ascend the Mountain of the Lord?: A Biblical Theology of Leviticus (IVP Academic, 2015), and Exodus Old and New: A Biblical Theology of Redemption (IVP Academic, 2020), and a recent 2 volume commentary on Numbers. He can be reached at mmorales@gpts.edu Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biblical-studies

Is Israel meant to liberate Iran? Hear Prime Minister Netanyahu talk directly to the people of Persia. Then, was there a pogram in Amsterdam? Shraga Evers of Shivat Zion is brining Jews home from there. Also, Jewish comedy is both funny and educational - stand up comic Yohay Sponder teaches us! Finally, Ben Bresky on Israel's Chief Rabbinate, and Table Torah on the Binding of Isaac.

SEASON 2024 EPISODE 41: Is Israel meant to liberate Iran? Hear Prime Minister Netanyahu talk directly to the people of Persia. Then, was there a pogram in Amsterdam? Shraga Evers of Shivat Zion is brining Jews home from there. Also, Jewish comedy is both funny and educational - stand up comic Yohay Sponder teaches us! Finally, Ben Bresky on Israel's Chief Rabbinate, and Table Torah on the Binding of Isaac.SPONSOR LINKS:The Israel Bible https://theisraelbible.com/Prohibition Pickle https://www.facebook.com/Prohibitionpickle/Hebron Fund https://hebronfund.org/The Jewish Press https://www.jewishpress.com/JNS https://www.jns.org/Kosher Cycle Tours http://www.KosherCycleTours.comPODCAST INFO:Podcast website: https://yishaifleisher.com/podcast/Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3mIsdfUSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3oP2Reo4JYnfIJdDUrQS2cRSS: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/1271258.rssYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YishaiFleisherTVSUPPORT & CONNECT:Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcastSupport on Givecloud: https://kumah.givecloud.co/Twitter: https://twitter.com/YishaiFleisherInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yishaifleisherLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yishaifleisher/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/YishaiFleisherSupport the show

This week we explore the depths of Kabbalah, unique self, and Eros with renowned philosopher Marc Gafni. He begins by defining the foundational concepts of Kabbalah, setting the stage for an exploration of the interplay between masculine and feminine energies that shape our reality. He introduces the profound symbol of the Tree of Life and its relevance to personal mastery. As he describes each piece of the 11 stories in the Tree of Life, the discussion unfolds to encompass the realms of imagination, understanding, and the balance between love and boundaries, highlighting the beauty of contradictions and the coexistence of joy amidst life's challenges. He then describes the concept of unique self, an understanding of self that transcends the misconceptions of both Western and Eastern traditions. As the episode progresses, we delve into how Eros can serve as a portal to deepening intimacy, and ultimately heal our disconnected world. Seed:  Go to https://seed.com/knowthyself and use code 25KNOWTHYSELF for 25% off your first month of Seed André's Book Recommendations: https://www.knowthyself.one/books ___________ 0:00 Intro  1:40 Defining Kabbalah: A Mathematics of Cosmic Intimacy 9:57 Masculine and Feminine Energy in the Universe 20:50 Introducing The Tree of Life 22:19 Keter: The Profound Power of Silence 30:43 Chochmah & Binah: Ideas, Imagination & Understanding 32:49 Chesed & Gevurah: Outrageous Love & Boundaries 35:31 Tiferet: Laughter & Beauty that Holds All Contradictions 38:51 True Meaning of Beauty & Laughter  49:16 Netzach & Hod: Forever & Surrender 51:50 Yesod & Malchut: That Which Receives & Becomes  52:11 Practical Applications of This Wisdom 1:01:56 Finding Light in the Broken Heart 1:06:48 SEED: Save 25% off Your First Month 1:08:50 Every Place You've Been, You've Needed to Be 1:10:43 Who Are You? Defining Separate Self vs True Self 1:20:24 The East & West Both Got This Wrong: The Emergence of Unique Self 1:31:08 Infinity Desires Finitude: What True Love Is 1:38:50 Qualities of Unique Self: Looking Beyond Nondual Thinking  1:46:16 Your Risk to Bring Your Gift into the World 1:55:02 Framework for Defining & Unlocking Your Purpose 1:57:16 Shadow-work: Your Pathway to Purpose 2:09:45 Your Unique Obligation  2:17:13 Eros: Desire as a Portal to Deepening 2:31:30 Earth's Problematic Intimacy Disorder 2:41:49 Human Love: From Soulmate to Whole-mate 2:58:00 Conclusion ___________ Dr. Marc Gafni has been described as a world philosopher — a kind of galaxy heart brain — integrating wisdom from across multiple disciplines into what he has called a New Story of Value in response to the meta-crisis. Gafni's doctorate is from Oxford University with a masters degree from Bar Ilan University. He holds an orthodox rabbinic certification from the Chief Rabbinate in Israel and non-denominational rabbinic ordination. He is the author of forty books, of which only the first twelve have been published, including the award-winning Your Unique Self: The Radical Path to Personal Enlightenment. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcgafni/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MarcGafni First Principles and First Values (book): https://www.amazon.com/First-Principles-Values-Propositions-Cosmoerotic/dp/B0CS85WYVX  A Return to Eros: the Radical Experience of Being Fully Alive (book):  https://www.amazon.com/Return-Eros-Radical-Experience-Being/dp/1944648186 Your Unique Self: the Radical Path to Personal Enlightenment (book): https://www.amazon.com/Your-Unique-Self-Personal-Enlightenment/dp/1467522775/ ___________ Know Thyself Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/knowthyself/ Website: https://www.knowthyself.one Clips Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJ4wglCWTJeWQC0exBalgKg Listen to all episodes on Audio:  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4FSiemtvZrWesGtO2MqTZ4?si=d389c8dee8fa4026 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/know-thyself/id1633725927 André Duqum Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreduqum/

Israel should not be a religious state, Rabbi David Stav says, and then its citizens could more freely welcome religion into their lives.The Chief Rabbi of Shoham, an Israeli town with a large secular populace, Rabbi Stav has long dedicated his life to bridging the social divides between religious and secular life. After the Rabin assassination, he and other rabbis founded Tzohar—an organization that "makes Jewish life accessible to secular Israelis—which received the 2009 Presidential Award for Volunteers.Rabbi Stav was previously a candidate for Israel's Chief Rabbinate and sought to revolutionize the relationship between religion and state.Now, he joins us to answer 18 questions on Israel, including democracy, IDF drafts, and Messianism.This interview was held on Sept. 11.Here are our 18 questions:As an Israeli, and as a Jew, how are you feeling at this moment in Israeli history?What has been Israel's greatest success and greatest mistake in its war against Hamas?How have your religious views changed since Oct. 7? What do you look for in deciding which Knesset party to vote for?Which is more important for Israel: Judaism or democracy?Should Israel treat its Jewish and non-Jewish citizens the same?Now that Israel already exists, what is the purpose of Zionism?Is opposing Zionism inherently antisemitic?Should Israel be a religious state?If you were making the case for Israel, where would you begin?Should all Israelis serve in the army?Can questioning the actions of Israel's government and army — even in the context of this war — be a valid form of love and patriotism?What do you think is the most legitimate criticism leveled against Israel today?Do you think the State of Israel is part of the final redemption?Is Messianism helpful or harmful to Israel?Do you think peace between Israelis and Palestinians will happen within your lifetime?Where do you identify on Israel's political and religious spectrum, and do you have friends on the “other side”?Do you have more hope or fear for Israel and the Jewish People?

Rabbi Yoseph Vigler was born in Cape Town, South Africa and raised in Springs, a small shtetl an hour from Johannesburg. After studying in yeshiva at Ateres Yisroel in Bayit Vegan, Kfar Chabad, Kollel in New York and in Melbourne Australia. Rabbi Vigler received Smicha from the Chief Rabbinate in Eretz Yisroel and Shimush L'Rabbonus in various areas of Halacha. Rabbi Vigler is a proud father of ten children K”ah and is passionate about disseminating the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov and his students and spreading Ahavas Yisroel.   Help My Extended Family Here  

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Political correspondent Sam Sokol and environmental reporter Sue Surkes join host Jessica Steinberg for today's episode. Sokol speaks about the Knesset voting on a bill to extend reservists' service, in order to keep reservists keep serving because of exigencies of the war, and an ongoing manpower shortage. Sokol discusses how this bill feeds into the ongoing ultra-Orthodox draft issue, generating a backlash of anger as it backs into what is sometimes called an evasion law for the ultra-Orthodox draft, allowing exemptions for young yeshiva students while the burden falls on other parts of Israeli society. He also looks at another bill that would allow the government to appoint hundreds of new state-funded rabbinical posts in towns and local councils, creating a kind of jobs program for members of the coalition's religious parties. The bill was stalled during the earlier months of the war, is now being pushed by the coalition partners and Sokol said that a major political scrap could emerge from these two controversial issues on the docket. Surkes talks about a pilot program for the children of migrants and refugees that integrates them into mixed classes in other neighborhoods, offering more hope for the future but not solving the many issues facing  this beleaguered population. She also describes the rescue of a Nubian ibex that fell into a deep sinkhole near Kibbutz Ein Gedi near the Dead Sea. For more updates, please check out The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Far-right ministers blast ‘delusional' daily pauses in fighting to secure Gaza aid Knesset revives bill expanding Chief Rabbinate's influence over local authorities Government backs new extension to IDF reservists' service despite backlash Nubian ibex rescued from 10-meter-deep sinkhole THOSE WE HAVE LOST: Civilians and soldiers killed in Hamas's onslaught on Israel THOSE WE ARE MISSING: The hostages and victims whose fate is still unknown Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. This episode was produced by the Pod-Waves.   IMAGE: Ultra-Orthodox Jews protest against the drafting of Haredim to the IDF, June 2, 2024 (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Don't miss out on exclusive bonus content, as well as special offers and initiatives. Join the Shtark Tank Quiet Whatsapp Group today, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Has Shtark Tank made even a small impact on your life? Email me at ⁠⁠⁠⁠yaakovwolff@gmail.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠with feedback, questions, comments. Rav Shlomo Fishman spent 14 years learning in Kollel. But then, he lost out on his dream job. Now he lives in Jerusalem and travels frequently serving as General Counsel and VP of Strategic Partnerships for iPostal1, a US based company. He can be reached at Lawyerrabbi@gmail.com Previously, Rav Shlomo was a senior associate attorney with Shibolet & Co. in Tel Aviv and specialized in the handling of private and public companies, accompanying start-ups company at their various stages, from founding, funding, and exit. Rav Shlomo is also ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and served as a Rabbinical Judge in the Rabbinical Court of Monetary Affairs of the "Ariel Institute", Jerusalem. In this framework and amongst others, Rav Shlomo delivers Torah lessons in Israel and around the world, introducing a unique and fascinating combination of the worlds of Jewish and civil law.

Ever wondered how a non-observant Jewish kid from Melbourne becomes a leading rabbi and author? Rabbi Mordechai Becher's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this Special Sunday Edition of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, we chat with Rabbi Becher about his transformative experiences at the Yeshiva University outreach program, Counterpoint, and his educational adventures in Chabad Yeshiva High School and the Itri Yeshiva in Israel. Despite initial cultural challenges and an unconventional background, Rabbi Becher's story is a testament to perseverance, parental support, and the power of faith.Discover the impact of Rabbi Becher's influential book, "Gateway to Judaism," which has become a go-to guide for converts and learners, even within the US Armed Forces. We explore how the book ingeniously blends Jewish law and philosophy, inspired by Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch's "Chorev." Rabbi Becher also shares personal updates, including his family's accomplishments, such as his son's service in Gaza and his rabbinical work in Dallas, and his move to Passaic, New Jersey.Get practical advice for embracing a more observant lifestyle, with tips on taking manageable steps and the significance of Torah study. Rabbi Becher reflects on the lessons from the Holocaust, the importance of Jewish unity, and the profound role of Shabbos in contemporary life. Plus, be inspired by the story of Eden Golan's composure during the Eurovision Song Contest and learn how to foster a vibrant Jewish community. Don't miss this enriching discussion filled with personal anecdotes, historical reflections, and valuable guidance for a meaningful Jewish journey.Special thank you to Rabbi Danny Masri & Congregation Beth Rambam in Houston, Texas for bringing Rabbi Becher as Scholar in Residence to our community! Rabbi Mordechai Becher, originally from Australia, is an instructor at Yeshiva University and alumni Rabbi of Neve Yerushalayim College. He received his ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and holds an MA in Medieval Jewish History from the Bernard Revel Graduate School. He taught at Ohr Somayach and Neve Yerushalayim in Jerusalem and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Rabbi Becher has answered thousands of questions on AsktheRabbi.org,  presents a Talmud class, Dimensions of the Daf, on cable TV with the Jewish Broadcasting Service and was senior lecture for Gateways for 20 years. Rabbi Becher's latest book, Gateway to Judaism, published by Artscroll/Shaar Press, is in its tenth printing. He has taught in the USA, Canada, England, Israel, South Africa, Australia and Russia, and is a scholar in residence for Legacy Kosher Tours. He has led tours in Africa, Australia, Czech Republic, China, England, Hungary, India, Italy, Israel, Japan, Panama, Russia, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on May 31, 2024.Released as Podcast on June 9, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!  ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Ever wondered how a non-observant Jewish kid from Melbourne becomes a leading rabbi and author? Rabbi Mordechai Becher's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this Special Sunday Edition of the Jewish Inspiration Podcast, we chat with Rabbi Becher about his transformative experiences at the Yeshiva University outreach program, Counterpoint, and his educational adventures in Chabad Yeshiva High School and the Itri Yeshiva in Israel. Despite initial cultural challenges and an unconventional background, Rabbi Becher's story is a testament to perseverance, parental support, and the power of faith.Discover the impact of Rabbi Becher's influential book, "Gateway to Judaism," which has become a go-to guide for converts and learners, even within the US Armed Forces. We explore how the book ingeniously blends Jewish law and philosophy, inspired by Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch's "Chorev." Rabbi Becher also shares personal updates, including his family's accomplishments, such as his son's service in Gaza and his rabbinical work in Dallas, and his move to Passaic, New Jersey.Get practical advice for embracing a more observant lifestyle, with tips on taking manageable steps and the significance of Torah study. Rabbi Becher reflects on the lessons from the Holocaust, the importance of Jewish unity, and the profound role of Shabbos in contemporary life. Plus, be inspired by the story of Eden Golan's composure during the Eurovision Song Contest and learn how to foster a vibrant Jewish community. Don't miss this enriching discussion filled with personal anecdotes, historical reflections, and valuable guidance for a meaningful Jewish journey.Special thank you to Rabbi Danny Masri & Congregation Beth Rambam in Houston, Texas for bringing Rabbi Becher as Scholar in Residence to our community! Rabbi Mordechai Becher, originally from Australia, is an instructor at Yeshiva University and alumni Rabbi of Neve Yerushalayim College. He received his ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and holds an MA in Medieval Jewish History from the Bernard Revel Graduate School. He taught at Ohr Somayach and Neve Yerushalayim in Jerusalem and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Rabbi Becher has answered thousands of questions on AsktheRabbi.org,  presents a Talmud class, Dimensions of the Daf, on cable TV with the Jewish Broadcasting Service and was senior lecture for Gateways for 20 years. Rabbi Becher's latest book, Gateway to Judaism, published by Artscroll/Shaar Press, is in its tenth printing. He has taught in the USA, Canada, England, Israel, South Africa, Australia and Russia, and is a scholar in residence for Legacy Kosher Tours. He has led tours in Africa, Australia, Czech Republic, China, England, Hungary, India, Italy, Israel, Japan, Panama, Russia, South Korea, Thailand and Vietnam.Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studios (B) in Houston, Texas on May 31, 2024.Released as Podcast on June 9, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area!  ★ Support this podcast ★

Why do we seem to pray for rain at the wrong times? Can we adjust the dates for V'sein Tal U'matar? Who even came up with setting December 4th/5th as a day of halachic significance? Rabbi Elli Fischer shares with us a radical ruling of the Rosh (Responsum 4:10) on this topic and its intriguingly fraught reception. Rabbi Fischer's very own translation of this responsum can be found on Sefaria. Please note his more recently updated bio: Rabbi Elli Fischer is an independent writer, translator, and rabbi. Previously, he was the JLIC rabbi and campus educator at the University of Maryland. He holds BA and MS degrees from Yeshiva University, rabbinical ordination from Israel's Chief Rabbinate, and is working toward a doctorate in Jewish History.  He is a founding editor of The Lehrhaus, a web magazine of contemporary Jewish thought. His original writing has appeared in numerous Jewish publications. Among the issues he writes about are the history of halakhah; religion and politics in Israel; the interplay between legal and nonlegal elements of the Talmud; and Central European Jewish History. He edited ten volumes of Rabbi Eliezer Melamed's Peninei Halakha series in English and is a cofounder of HaMapah, a project that applies quantitative analysis to rabbinic literature.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 20-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world. Today is Day 105 of the war. Legal reporter Jeremy Sharon and diaspora and Jewish world reporter Canaan Lidor join host Jessica Steinberg. Sharon discusses the first anti-war demonstration being allowed in Haifa, the largest city in the northern region, following High Court pressure on the police who have resisted requests until now in Haifa. Lidor looks at another High Court decision that would allow women to serve on the chief rabbinate's top council, something that presumably won't happen in the near term but represents the tension between the secular High Court and religious court. Sharon disseminates an effort by Communications Minister Shlomo Karhi to remove the current Postal Authority chairman without High Court interference. Lidor talks about a trance rave held in Modi'in forest last Saturday, three months after the Supernova desert rave was attacked by Hamas terrorists who killed 364 people and took dozens more hostage. For the latest updates, please look at The Times of Israel's ongoing live blog. Discussed articles include: Live blog January 19, 2024 Cops allow anti-war demo after High Court says the right to protest is ‘fundamental' High Court rules women can fill ‘rabbi' slots in Chief Rabbinate's top bodies Communications minister tells High Court he won't reverse firing of post office chief Commemorating Supernova victims, electronic music scene attempts a low-key comeback THOSE WE HAVE LOST: Civilians and soldiers killed in Hamas's onslaught on Israel THOSE WE ARE MISSING: The hostages and victims whose fate is still unknown Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. IMAGE: An anti-government rally outside the Knesset in Jerusalem on January 15, 2024 (Photo by Chaim Goldberg/FLASH90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rabbi Mordechai Becher, originally from Australia, is an instructor at Yeshiva University and alumni Rabbi of Neve Yerushalayim College. He received his ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and holds an MA in Medieval Jewish History from the Bernard Revel Graduate School. He taught at Ohr Somayach and Neve Yerushalayim in Jerusalem and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Rabbi Becher has answered thousands of questions on AsktheRabbi.org,  presents a Talmud class, Dimensions of the Daf, for the Jewish Broadcasting Service and was senior lecturer for Gateways for 20 years. Rabbi Becher's latest book, Gateway to Judaism, published by Artscroll,  is in its tenth printing. He has taught in the USA, Canada, England, Israel, South Africa, Australia and Russia, and is a scholar in residence for Legacy Kosher Tours. He has led tours in Africa, Australia, Asia, Europe, Central America and the Middle EastFor more Brainstorm go to...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2aPCiuzsIoNKYt5jjv7RFT?si=67dfa56d4e764ee0Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brainstorm-with-sony-perlman/id1596925257Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@brainstormwithsonyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brainstormwithsony/

A Zionist account of history has it that, at some point in the past, the Jewish people were exiled from Judea and forced to settle across the world. This exile is believed to have taken place either as a consequence of the 1st and 2nd century revolts against the Romans, or as a result of the Arab Muslim conquest of the 7th century.     The problem with this narrative is that it's highly unlikely to be true.   Christian Aid Gaza Appeal: https://www.christianaid.org.uk/appeals/emergencies/middle-east-crisis-appeal   Buy me a Coffee page: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/DSConsciousness   To subscribe to the show: https://payhip.com/b/Sq0ZB   Track: Walk it Off - Jae Ren Music provided by Verde Música Studio Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S2l-97PH5R8   Notes For the majority of this episode I have drawn on The Invention of the Jewish People, by Shlomo Sand: https://tinyurl.com/4kykxhdj   Population Genetics in Israel in the 1950s: The Unconscious Internalization of Ideology, by Nurit Kirsh https://philpapers.org/rec/KIRPGI   For a rundown of the Khazarian Mafia conspiracy theory see: https://www.isdglobal.org/digital_dispatches/an-antisemitic-conspiracy-theory-is-being-shared-on-telegram-to-justify-russias-invasion-of-ukraine/   How the ADL brands any questioning of Jewish identity anti-Semitic: https://extremismterms.adl.org/glossary/khazars   A Modest Proposal: All Palestinians Should Convert to Judaism, by Nadia Hijab: https://forward.com/opinion/386761/a-modest-proposal-all-palestinians-should-convert-to-judaism/   Palestinian requests for conversion rejected outright, official says, Times of Israel: https://www.timesofisrael.com/palestinian-requests-for-conversion-rejected-outright-official-says/   Huge Spike in Number of Israelis 'un-Jewed' by Chief Rabbinate in Past Two Years, Haaretz: https://tinyurl.com/5yryu53v   For work challenging Sand see:  Cassius Dio's figures for the demographic consequences of the Bar Kokhba War: Exaggeration or reliable account?, by Dvir Raviv and Chaim Ben David https://tinyurl.com/29we77n2   The Myth of the Khazar Conversion, by Shaul Stampfer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PYbycYgjnSU

Rabbi Dan Roth believes there is nothing more exciting than Torah wisdom and is devoting his life to bringing that excitement to Jews around the world. A revolutionary educator, he is the founder and director of Torah Live (www.torahlive.com), an organization that creates multimedia presentations and teaching resources on both halachic and hashkafic topics. Raised in London, Rabbi Roth is a graduate of the Mir Yeshiva and received semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. While teaching at Ohr Somayach, he recognized the need for making Torah relevant to our youth - and thus Torah Live was born! Rabbi Roth now spends most of his time script writing, filming, and traveling the world to inspire individuals and educators in how to utilize today's technology to engage people in the beauty, and relevance, of Torah in our lives.

Rabbi Mordechai Becher, originally from Australia, is an instructor at Yeshiva University and alumni Rabbi of Neve Yerushalayim College. He received his ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem and holds an MA in Medieval Jewish History from the Bernard Revel Graduate School. He taught at Ohr Somayach and Neve Yerushalayim in Jerusalem and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Rabbi Becher has answered thousands of questions on AsktheRabbi.org, presents a Talmud class, Dimensions of the Daf, for the Jewish Broadcasting Service and was senior lecturer for Gateways for 20 years. Rabbi Becher's latest book, Gateway to Judaism, published by Artscroll, is in its tenth printing. In this episode, we discuss how he trains his students to answer tough questions and become knowledgeable of the hot button issues. We then discuss the beauty of shabbos, why shabbos is awesome and reflections of his late rebbe, Harav Moshe Shapiro zt'l. This episode is sponsored by [re]start, a career development platform. [re]start offers complimentary access to login and work with live career advisors who will help you find meaningful employment opportunities that match what you are looking for. For more information, visit www.joinrestart.com KOLOT is a project of the Columbus Community Kollel, a full time learning center in Bexley. Ever since 1995, boys, girls, men and women have found learning opportunities at the Kollel. Whether it's a study partner or an engaging class, the Kollel is your one stop shop for all your Jewish learning. To learn more about the Kollel, visit www.thekollel.org and forever be inspired.

This series is sponsored by Unpacking Israeli History.In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we talk to Rabbi Elli Fischer— a writer, translator, and editor—about the relationship between Jewish law and the Jewish state.For almost 2,000 years, we were able to maintain a system of Jewish law without the convenience of a homeland. Yet now, when we have our own state, Jewish law seems more difficult and complicated to implement than ever.In this episode we discuss: What is the effect of halacha on the Jewish state and the effect of the Jewish state on halacha?How can halacha and society be integrated in Israel?What is it about the nature of halacha that puts it outside the domain of the current systems of government?Tune in to hear a conversation about the role of Jewish religion in the Israeli government.Interview begins at 19:27.R. Elli Fischer is an independent writer, translator, and rabbi. Previously, he was the OU-JLIC rabbi and campus educator at the University of Maryland. He holds BA and MS degrees from Yeshiva University, rabbinical ordination from Israel's Chief Rabbinate, and is working toward a doctorate in Jewish History at Tel Aviv University. He is a founding editor of The Lehrhaus, a web magazine of contemporary Jewish thought. His original writing on religion and politics in Israel, the interplay between legal and nonlegal elements of the Talmud, Jewish religious culture, and Central European Jewish History have been widely published. He is the translator of By Faith Alone: The Story of R. Yehuda Amital and the editor of R. Eliezer Melamed's Peninei Halakha series in English.References:EzekielThe Invention of Jewish Theocracy: The Struggle for Legal Authority in Modern Israel by Alexander KayeHalakha and the Challenge of Israeli Sovereignty by Asaf Yedidya Isaiah Sefer Lev ha-Ivri by Rabbi Akiva Joseph Schlesinger“Ivri Anochi” by Benny Friedman Rabbi Elli Fischer's translation of Peninei HalakhaState of Halakha: Israel's History in Jewish Law by Aviad TaboryThe Politics of Torah: The Jewish Political Tradition and the Founding of Agudat Israel by Alan L. Mittleman

The developments surrounding the return to the Land of Israel and the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948 seem to be prophetically predicted in the verses of Psalm 107. That's why Israel's Chief Rabbinate selected this salvation-themed chapter to be recited on Yom Ha'atzmaut, Israel's independence day. But there is one verse that seems completely out of place.In this week's episode, Ari Levisohn and Daniel Loewenstein explore this strange verse and uncover its deep message of hope, strength, and perseverance in the face of adversity. What did you think of this episode? We'd genuinely like to hear your thoughts, questions, and feedback. Leave us a voice message – just click record, and let your thoughts flow. You may even be featured on the show! Check out our new podcast, Meaningful Judaism, here or wherever you get your podcasts! If you're enjoying this podcast, help support our work by subscribing to Aleph Beta. Into the Verse is a project of Aleph Beta, a Torah media company dedicated to spreading the joy and love of meaningful Torah learning worldwide. For our full library of over 1,000 videos and podcasts, please visit www.alephbeta.org. Follow us on your favorite social media.

This week we focus on teens in the high school years with an extremely seasoned educator, Rabbi Eliezer Rubin. This episode is an absolute must listen, because of Rabbi Rubin's vast vas wisdom and insight into the teenage years, for both parents and educators. You will learn about: A new challenge with parenting teens. A fundamental approach towards parenting teens. A fascinating take on the difference between 9/10 and 11/12th graders How to deal with defiance, apathy, Tefillah and so much more at this age. Rabbi Rubin has so many years of experience, and this experience shows throughout this episode, especially at 1 hour 13 min in, with an extremely important take within parenting. I am so excited to share this episode with you, and can't wait to hear your feedback. Rabbi Rubin began his career in Israel, where he studied at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav before receiving semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. In addition to teaching many young men and women at Israeli yeshivot and seminaries for their gap year, he served as an officer in Tzahal and as Chaplain of the renowned 13th Brigade (Golani). Rabbi Eliezer Rubin is currently the Head of School at The Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy/Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School in Livingston, NJ, as well as the principal of the high school. Prior to leading JKHA/RKYHS, Rabbi Rubin enjoyed an 18-year-long career at the Ramaz School, where he served as Headmaster of both the Lower and Middle Schools, as well as Dean of the Upper School—a distinction that is exceedingly rare in Jewish or secular education. At Congregation Kehillat Jeshurun, his Shabbat shiurim and other lectures routinely attracted scores of enthusiastic teens and adults from all parts of Manhattan. Rabbi Rubin earned two Masters degrees, one in Administration and Leadership from New York University, as well as a Masters in Jewish Studies from Touro College --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/jeducation/support

 United Torah Judaism's coalition demands while negotiating with prime minister-designate Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly include ending electricity production on Shabbat. "Any final agreement will preserve the status quo in matters of religion and state," the Likud said after the demands were leaked to the media, stressing that not all the demands will be part of the final coalition agreement. UTJ also wants a representative from the Chief Rabbinate in any panel weighing permits for work on Shabbat, the Jewish day of rest; more gender-segregated beaches; additional public transportation discounts in predominantly ultra-Orthodox cities; affirmative action for the ultra-Orthodox when applying for jobs in government companies and more religious studies in secular schools. KAN's Mark Weiss asked Rabbi Yehoshua Pfeffer, head of the Haredi Israel division at the Tikva Fund, if he was surprised by the backlash that followed the publication of the  UTJ demands. (Photo: Flash90)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rabbi Dan Roth believes there is nothing more exciting than Torah wisdom and is devoting his life to bringing that excitement to Jews around the world.   A revolutionary educator, he is the founder and director of Torah Live (www.torahlive.com), an organization that creates multimedia presentations and teaching resources on both halachic and hashkafic topics.   Raised in London, Rabbi Roth is a graduate of the Mir Yeshiva and received semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. While teaching at Ohr Somayach, he recognized the need for making Torah relevant to our youth - and thus Torah Live was born!   Rabbi Roth now spends most of his time script writing, filming, and traveling the world to inspire individuals and educators in how to utilize today's technology to engage people in the beauty, and relevance, of Torah in our lives.   Torah Live gives Jewish children a Torah educational experience so fun, rich, and engaging, that they don't even feel like they're learning.   Using cutting edge videos, Torah Live's mission is to translate every halachah, hashkafah, and good character trait into the language of our generation - multimedia.   See it all here: https://torahlive.com/   _________________________________ ✬ SPONSORS OF THIS EPISODE ✬ _________________________________     ► GET READY FOR MORE KICHELS!   Step into the lives of the frum family that's just like yours, and laugh along with the Kichels as they blunder through shidduchim and shopping and make mistakes, messes, and Yom Tov.    Exclusive coupon code on feldheim.com LLKICHEL for 20% and free shipping!   https://www.feldheim.com/the-kichel-collection-3?&utm_source=Portals&utm_medium=LL&utm_campaign=LL_Podcast_KICH3   _________________________________   ► KAN TZIPOR BOOK IS EPIC!   Inspiring Stories On Seizing "Magic Moments" Of Opportunity To Do Chessed   COUPON : LLKAN  20% Off Kan Tzipor plus free shipping   BUY HERE: https://www.feldheim.com/kan-tzipor?&utm_source=Portals&utm_medium=LL&utm_campaign=LL_Podcast_KANT   Visit kantzipor.org to submit your own Kan Tzipor moments!     _________________________________   This episode is in memory of:   • Shimon Dovid ben Yaakov Shloima   • Miriam Sarah bas Yaakov Moshe     Our free call-in-to-listen feature is here:   • USA: (712) 432-3489    • UK: 0333-366-0154    • ISRAEL: 079-579-5088     Follow us on social media for more content: • TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@livinglchaim • IG - https://www.instagram.com/livinglchaim/ • FB - https://www.facebook.com/livinglchaim • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/living-lchaim • Website - https://www.livinglchaim.com/     Have a specific question? email us hi@livinglchaim.com WhatsApp us feedback and get first access to episodes: 914-222-5513     If you are interested in sponsoring an episode in memory or refuah shilama of a loved one, please send an email to hi@livinglchaim.com   Lchaim.

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biography

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/intellectual-history

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/israel-studies

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/eastern-european-studies

Avraham Yitzhaq Ha-Cohen Kook (1865-1935) stands as a colossal figure of modern Jewish history and thought. Jurist, mystic, poet, theologian, communal leader, founder of the modern Chief Rabbinate and still the defining thinker of Religious Zionism, he is indispensable for understanding modern Jewish thought, the contemporary State of Israel, and the most fundamental interactions of religion, nationalism, ethics and spirituality. Despite countless studies of him, almost no full-fledged intellectual biography of him exists in any language.  This study of the years before his momentous move to Jaffa in 1904, drawing on little-known works, including recently published manuscripts, begins to fill that gap. Towards the Mystical Experience of Modernity: The Making of Rav Kook, 1865-1904 (Academic Studies Press, 2021) traces his life and times in the remarkably intense Rabbinic intellectual milieu of late nineteenth-century Eastern Europe, and his path from a profound, regularly rationalist traditionalism, towards a dynamic theology and spiritual practice weaving together Kabbalah, philosophy, universal ethics, and romantic mysticism. Matthew Miller is a graduate of Yeshivat Yesodei HaTorah. He studied Jewish Studies and Linguistics at McGill for his BA and completed an MA in Hebrew Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. He works with Jewish organizations in media and content distribution, such as TheHabura.com and RabbiEfremGoldberg.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

Rabbi Aaron Leibowitz Shabbat Sermon at Temple Beth Am, Los Angeles, June 25, 2022. (Youtube/Zoom) Special Guest: Rabbi Aaron Leibowitz.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 15-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East and the Jewish world, from Sunday through Thursday. Political correspondent Carrie Keller-Lynn and news editor Amy Spiro join host Amanda Borschel-Dan. Keller-Lynn is heading to the West Bank settlement of Homesh to report on what she calls the next big landmine for the coalition. Let's hear why. A story that spread like wildfire this week is the issue of prayer on the Temple Mount. What happened last night in the case of two youth who were caught reciting the Hebrew prayer "Shma" on the Temple Mount? Rumors are flying that former prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is negotiating with the coalition for a rotation government. Keller-Lynn wouldn't bet her money on it, and here's why. Spiro justifies her addiction to the television program "Married at First Sight" through an analysis, "When reality TV meets the reality of Israel's Chief Rabbinate." Do depictions of civil and gay marriage on Israel's more popular tv show say anything about Israeli society? Discussed articles include: Next coalition crisis? Ahead of High Court debate, Gantz says Homesh to be evacuated Shaked to do ‘everything' to prevent evacuation of illegal West Bank outpost Homesh Judge rules against Jews who prayed at Temple Mount, accepting state's appeal US pushing Israel to reroute controversial Jerusalem march away from Muslim Quarter When reality TV meets the reality of Israel's Chief Rabbinate Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. Illustrative image: Visitors walk by the water tower on the ruins of the evacuated settlement of Homesh on August 27, 2019. (Hillel Maeir/Flash90) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rabbi Sharon Sharon is an Ethiopian Jew, the son of a Kes, who was among the first to be ordained by the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. He is a senior lecturer at Bar Ilan and Ono College, and the rabbi of an Ashkenazic synagogue in Mercaz Shapira. Join Rabbi Matanky for a fascinating conversation with Rabbi Shalom about his new book, his practice of Judaism and the accusations of racism in Israel.

Welcome to The Times of Israel's Daily Briefing, your 15-minute audio update on what's happening in Israel, the Middle East, and the Jewish world, from Sunday through Thursday. News editor Amy Spiro and Palestinian affairs correspondent Aaron Boxerman join host Amanda Borschel-Dan. Spiro delves into the grassroots criticism of Israel's refugee policies and what is happening now. She recently published an in-depth report on the struggle for many in Israel who brush up against the chief rabbinate in issues of marriage and divorce. What will happen when those Ukrainians of Jewish descent -- those who have one or more Jewish grandparents -- who decide to immigrate will attempt to get married in Israel? Boxerman updates on what happened late last week with the controversial Citizenship Law. He then breaks down the very strange saga of journalist Catherine Perez-Shakdam. Who is she and why has she recently made headlines? The winter Paralympics just wrapped up. We hear about Sheina Vaspi, Team Israel's sole contender. Discussed articles include: Live blog March 14, 2022 Facing blistering criticism, Israel eases limit on entry of Ukrainian refugees Ties that chafe: Israel's stagnant marital system leaves thousands trapped After coalition battle, Knesset reauthorizes ban on Palestinian family unification I'm no Mossad spy, says Jewish journalist who interviewed Raisi, worked for Iran TV Israel's first-ever Winter Paralympian hits the slopes at Beijing Games Subscribe to The Times of Israel Daily Briefing on iTunes, Spotify, PlayerFM, Google Play, or wherever you get your podcasts. This Times of Israel podcast is sponsored by Thirty-Six, in which host Justin Hayet scours Israel to find the 36 most wonderful, interesting people doing the most wonderful, interesting things. Subscribe to Thirty-Six on your favorite podcast platform. IMAGE: An ultra-Orthodox Jewish man wrapped in Ukrainian and Israeli national flags prays at the Western Wall, the holiest site where Jews can pray in Jerusalem's Old City, March 4, 2022. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historian and Bar Ilan Associate Professor Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Woolf joins Eve Harow to speak about the controversial legislation being drafted in Israel to return conversion authority to city and local rabbis and away from the centralized Chief Rabbinate. Religious Minister Matan Kahane has tread into the fray to try to solve the pressing issue of (mainly descendants of Russian immigrants) Israelis who are not Jews according to the accepted Orthodox framework. Rabbi Woolf is a judge on a conversion court and he backs the reforms, with reservations, but others do not and it's unclear if they will pass given the divisive political atmosphere in the Knesset. No definitive answers but a thoughtful and informative discussion with a very learned individual, devoted to Torah and Judaism, who is not afraid to give his opinion on a sensitive topic. The newest webinar in the series; sponsored by One Israel Fund.

"The 'three rabbis' outline will blow up in our faces," Kosharot stated. "Unfortunately, those who wanted to fix the kashrut system with good intentions do not take responsibility in the face of factual data from the fraud department. No one is free from criticism, and when there are failures, they must be acknowledged and corrected. If the project did not meet the rules and goals defined by the Tzohar rabbis - the project must be closed and the masses must not be led astray." "We emphasize again - only one kashrut. under a transparent and professional governmental organization with uniform protocols, can bring about the mending of the kashrut system," Kosharot said. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/yaar-ben-emmett/support

https://astralcodexten.substack.com/p/links-for-december   [Remember, I haven't independently verified each link. On average, commenters will end up spotting evidence that around two or three of the links in each links post are wrong or misleading. I correct these as I see them, and will highlight important corrections later, but I can't guarantee I will have caught them all by the time you read this.] 1: List Of Games That Buddha Would Not Play. 2: Claim via NPR: When Brazil had high inflation in the 1990s, some economists developed a plan: price everything in inflation-adjusted units, so that people felt like things were “stable”, then declare that the Inflation Adjusted Unit was the new currency. How Fake Money Saved Brazil. Also interesting: they tried it because the new finance minister knew no economics, recognized his ignorance, and was willing to call up random economists and listen to their hare-brained plans. 3: In the 19th century, a group of Tibeto-Burman-speaking former headhunters along the India/Burma border declared themselves the descendants of Manasseh (one of the Ten Lost Tribes) and converted en masse to Judaism. In 2005, the Chief Rabbinate of Israel accepted their claim and expedited immigration paperwork for several thousand of them.

Conversion and its regulation is a major political fight in Israel today. Who is right? What's the debate? In this episode, I begin to take a broader look at institutionalized religion in Israel and try to situate the conversion conundrum within that. We get into the nitty gritty of the Halakhah and address an important graphic feature of how the laws of conversion were codified. We take issue with an otherwise excellent book by Barry Wimpfheimer. We go on a tangent about Beit Hillel and Beit Shammai and some key differences between them. We discuss a bit about the founding of the Chief Rabbinate under the British. The key contention, though, is that attempts to fit Halakhah within a modern, bureaucratic, regulatory regime will inevitably result in the distortion of Halakhah.

Rabbi Eliezer Rubin is currently the Head of School at The Joseph Kushner Hebrew Academy/Rae Kushner Yeshiva High School in Livingston, NJ. He began his career in Israel, where he studied at Yeshivat Mercaz HaRav before receiving semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. In addition to teaching many young men and women at Israeli yeshivot and seminaries for their gap year, he served as an officer in Tzahal and as Chaplain of the renowned 13th Brigade (Golani). Prior to leading JKHA/RKYHS, Rabbi Rubin enjoyed an18-year-long career at the Ramaz School, where he served as Headmaster of both the Lower and Middle Schools, as well as Dean of the Upper School—a distinction that is exceedingly rare in Jewish or secular education. At Congregation Kehillat Jeshurun, his Shabbat shiurim and other lectures routinely attracted scores of enthusiastic teens and adults from all parts of Manhattan. Gems:Sometimes we can resolve conflict, other times we must learn to live with it.Approach G-d via prayer.Prayer expresses humility.Through prayer we can delve into the vastness of G-d.Examine ourselves with the depth, sophistication, and complication and dive into that with your students.Routine can create an environment of doldrums or less meaning.Encourage students to pray even when not in the mood.A muscle that isn't used, atrophies.Prayer has a strong utility for spiritual connection.Every time a person does a Mitzvah it brings a certain sense of goodness in the world through a spiritual conduit.Our education isn't reciprocal, it's unilateral.We are creating a frozen concept in time of knowledge.Knowledge has its own sequence.Meet students where they are, but also challenge them.Be careful to not turn students into something they're not.Learn to engage and support students, while keeping them on the path.Listen more than you talk.Get to know each student.Every engagement can add or take away.Find a balance between the traditional and modern.Create a simple view of Judaism while they're young, that can be built upon as they get older.Teach students responsibility to and for the world around them. Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/JewishEducationExperiencePodcast)

Cahill Cheddar Cheeses Voluntarily Recalled in 44 Whole Foods Market Stores Due to Possible Health Risk Company Announcement Date: July 27, 2021FDA Publish Date: July 27, 2021Product Type: Food & BeveragesReason for Announcement: Potential Listeria monocytogenesCompany Name: Whole Foods MarketBrand Name: CahillProduct Description: Cheddar cheese products. The most vociferous opponents of the government's plan to implement a “kashrut revolution” in the Knesset have been members of the haredi political parties. If that's not surprising, then perhaps it should be, because virtually no one identifying as haredi relies on the kashrut supervision of the Chief Rabbinate. Instead, haredim place their trust in the various “Badatz” (beit din tzedek, or righteous court) supervising agencies, whose seals can be found alongside that of the Rabbinate on many food items. This is because as it stands, the law requires all food items to be supervised by the Rabbinate; other kashrut organizations are then free to add their own level of supervision. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/yaar-ben-emmett/support

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Joel Kenigsberg is a rabbi, educator and researcher with a special interest in the application of ancient religious texts to modern technological innovations. He has presented extensively on this topic at international forums including at Oxford, UCL, London School of Jewish Studies and the European Conference of Rabbis, as well as publishing articles in both mainstream and academic press and consulting some of the leading companies in the cellular agriculture field. Rabbi Kenigsberg received his ordination from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. He holds an MA from Bar-Ilan University in the interdisciplinary field of science and Jewish religious law, and graduated from the Manhigut Toranit (Torah leadership) program at the prestigious Eretz Hemdah Institute of Advanced Jewish Studies in Jerusalem, where he formed part of a team of scholars fielding cutting-edge questions from around the world. --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/futurefoodshow/support

In this episode of the 18Forty Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Segal, philosophy professor and student of both Rav Aharon Lichtenstein and Alvin Plantinga, to discuss God from the perspective of analytic philosophy. Analytic philosophy is mathematical, breaking claims into small pieces to rigorously analyze the language and concepts. The cost of this approach is its unwieldiness and high standards, which Aaron believes has precluded it from providing a capital-P proof of God’s existence. But one can still reason about God, and though some would claim belief in God is irrational, Aaron thinks its rationality is justified. -What are the approaches one can take to belief in God?-What are the limits of analytic philosophy in talking about God?-What are the limits of a philosophy like Plantinga’s reformed epistemology?-Can one’s knowledge of God be purely experiential?Tune in to hear Aaron talk about both the power and limits of reasoning applied to God.References:Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus by Ludwig WittgensteinKuzari by Yehuda HaLeviMetaphysics by Peter van InwagenAdvice to Christian Philosophers by Alvin PlantingaThe Source of Faith is Faith Itself by Rav Aharon Lichtenstein"The Source of Faith..." Examined by Aaron SegalKurt Godel's ontological argument - https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/ontological-arguments/#GodOntArgScholarly Mentions:Rav Aharon Lichtenstein, Alvin Plantinga, Kurt Godel, Bertrand Russel, Ludwig Wittgenstein, Yehuda HaLevi, David Hilbert, Immanuel Kant, David Chalmers, Georg Cantor, John Locke, David Hume, David Johnson (YU) For more, visit https://18forty.org/topics/god. Dr. Aaron Segal is a lecturer in the Department of Philosophy at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and formerly taught philosophy in Yeshiva University. Aaron received his doctorate from the University of Notre Dame, where Alvin Plantinga was one of his thesis directors. He has co-authored and co-edited books on Jewish philosophy, such as Jewish Philosophy in an Analytic Age. Aaron is masterful in his knowledge and comfort in the profound questions of analytic philosophy, and also received Semicha from the Chief Rabbinate in Israel.

Aggadeta: Berachot 2a - Perspective of Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook - Class 25 Class highlights: A less literal reading the Mishnah through the lens of Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak HaKohen Kook, using his book En Ayah on the En Yaakov; some insights into the personality of Rabbi Kook; the danger of quoting certain rabbis; brief history of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the office of Sepharadic Chief Rabbi; two types of Keriat Shema, corresponding to the two types of acceptance of Ol Malchut Shamayim - internal and external; the ultimate goal of spreading the Name of Hashem throughout the world; Morenu HaRav Yaakov Peretz and the job description of a community rabbi outside of Israel; the tragic state of Ashkenazi Jews in the Diaspora; the Mitzvah of seeking converts to Judaism; the deep Emunah of our forefathers and the new questions of our youth; a transition in time during which the deeper reasons for the Torah must be revealed; refining the truth of the Torah and translating our Emunah in language palatable by the rest of the world; the Jewish people as the ambassadors of HaKadosh Baruch Hu in this world; the need for separation between our "internal affairs" and our "external affairs"; and more! (1/07/2021) — The Shiviti Night Kollel has expanded with a brand-new Talmud Track! Join us as we delve into the non-Halachic segments of the Talmud, otherwise known as Aggadeta! — Google Classroom Please email info@shiviti.org if you wish to join the Google Classroom. Please do not join the Classroom out of curiosity as inactive members will be removed. — Rabbi Yonatan Halevy's official YouTube channel! Subscribe for the newest audio and video coming out of Shiviti/Kehillat Shaar HaShamayim!

Israel's Attorney General recently declared that women should be allowed to sit for the same rabbinical exams as men, albeit not in order to acquire the title "Rabbi." The Chief Rabbinate, however, threatened to stop all examinations if this plan were implemented. Is the Chief Rabbinate justified? Is there a problem with women being rabbis in Orthodoxy? If so, is there an equivalent position or title which would be acceptable? And are the current steps leading down a slippery slope where traditional gender roles will be undermined? To answer these questions, Scott Kahn spoke with Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander, the President and Rosh HaYeshiva of Ohr Torah Stone. They had a frank discussion about his views regarding the role of women in Modern Orthodoxy, and the roles that women can - and should - play in communal spiritual leadership. Here are links Rabbi Brander mentioned in the podcast: https://www.yutorah.org/sidebar/lecture.cfm/848712/rabbi-dr-kenneth-brander/is-there-a-glass-ceiling-for-the-roles-of-women-in-orthodoxy-/ https://ots.org.il/marching-on-the-glass-floor/ Check out https://jewishcoffeehouse.com// for the Orthodox Conundrum and other great podcasts, and remember to subscribe to them on your favorite podcast provider. Also visit our Patreon site for bonus episodes, merch, and more at https://www.patreon.com/jewishcoffeehouse. Music: "Happy Rock" by bensound.com

Click HERE for the video Treasures of the Jews of Egypt An audio-visual tour of the famous Cairo Genizah Explore a treasure-trove of Jewish texts and artifacts from over 1000 years of Jewish life in Egypt. Rabbi Mordechai Becher, originally from Australia, is an Instructor at Yeshiva University, Rabbi of the alumni of Neve Yerushalayim College, and senior lecturer for Gateways. He received his semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and the Chief Rabbi of Yerushalayim and holds an MA in Medieval Jewish History from the Bernard Revel Graduate School where he is currently a doctoral candidate. He taught at Ohr Somayach and Neve Yerushalayim in Jerusalem and served in the Israel Defense Forces. Rabbi Becher has answered thousands of questions on AsktheRabbi.org and presents a Talmud class, Dimensions of the Daf, on cable TV with the Jewish Broadcasting Service. Rabbi Becher’s latest book, Gateway to Judaism, published by Artscroll/Shaar Press, is in its tenth printing. He has taught in the USA, Canada, England, Israel, South Africa, Australia and Russia, and is a scholar in residence for Legacy Kosher Tours, and has conducted tours in Africa, Australia, China, Europe, India, Israel, Japan, Panama and Russia.

Rabbi Kivelevitz and the Shiur explore what led to the unexpected acsension of Chacham Ovadiah Yosef to the position of Rishon LaTzion.The class discusses the roles of Rav Nissim,Rav Goren and the Lubavitcher Rebbe,as well as the aspirations of Moshe Dayan and Yigal Aaalon.Please leave us a review hereor email us at ravkiv@gmail.comFor more information on this podcast visityeshivaofnewark.jewishpodcasts.org See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information. This podcast is powered by JewishPodcasts.org. Start your own podcast today and share your content with the world. Click jewishpodcasts.fm/signup to get started.

From the expulsion from Spain in 1492, down to modern times, Sephardic Jewry has never experienced the rejuvenation experienced under the leadership of R' Ovadia Yosef. Stemming from humble origins in Iraq, he rose to fame in Rabbinical positions in Egypt, Yerushalayim, Petach Tikva, Tel Aviv and finally the Chief Rabbinate of the State of Israel. A prolific writer and world renowned posek, he became one of the greatest Halachic decisors of modern times. In his later years he would become famous as the spiritual leader and titular head of the Shas political party. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: Apple: tinyurl.com/yy8gaody Google Play: tinyurl.com/yxwv8tpc Spotify: tinyurl.com/y54wemxs Stitcher: bit.ly/2GxiKTJ You can email Yehuda at YGebss@Gmail.com Enjoy Jewish History Soundbites? Please give us a 5-Star Rating and write a positive review!

Rabbi Kivelevitz and the Shiur explore what led to the unexpected acsension of Chacham Ovadiah Yosef to the position of Rishon LaTzion.The class discusses the roles of Rav Nissim,Rav Goren and the Lubavitcher Rebbe,as well as the aspirations of Moshe Dayan and Yigal Aaalon.Please leave us a review hereor email us at ravkiv@gmail.comFor more information on this podcast visityeshivaofnewark.jewishpodcasts.org See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

The occupation. The Western Wall. The nation-state Law. The warm bonhomie between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu. The rift between American and Israeli Jews grows daily. How did this happen? Wasn’t Israel an issue of consensus in the American Jewish community until just recently? Wasn’t Israel the rare cause that could unite Jews across the political and denominational spectrum? Against the conventional wisdom, Daniel Gordis of Shalem College believes that this growing divide is decidedly not about what Israel does. It is, rather, about what Israel is. In a series of insightful articles as well as a forthcoming book, Gordis argues that the two largest Jewish communities in the world are animated by different attitudes about the purpose of Jewish life, and what it takes for the Jews to prosper. And these more fundamental differences, not the policies of the Netanyahu government or the Chief Rabbinate, are the true cause of the widening rift between the Jews of Israel and the United States. In this podcast, Daniel Gordis and Jonathan Silver sit down for a discussion about the complex relationship between American and Israeli Jews. They review the long history of American Jewish ambivalence toward Zionism, explore the different theories that motivate the Jewish communities in the U.S. and Israel, and try to define what it means to be a Zionist living in America. Musical selections in this podcast are drawn from the Quintet for Clarinet and Strings, op. 31a, composed by Paul Ben-Haim and performed by the ARC Ensemble as well as “Great Feeling” by Alex Kizenkov.

The Israeli Chief Rabbinate has become a lightning rod for criticism - and in many cases, quite deservedly so. The institution is broken; should we try to fix it, or junk it altogether? Rabbi Seth Farber, the founder of ITIM, believes that it can be a force for good - but only if it changes its narrow and, in his opinion, incorrect understanding of Halacha and its place in the State of Israel. In this episode of The Orthodox Conundrum Podcast, Scott Kahn discusses these and other issues with Rabbi Farber, including the op-ed he wrote for the New York Times on August 1, and whether publishing it in so public a forum is merely giving fodder for people who look for new reasons to dislike Israel. Please subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes! Just go to itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ortho…rum/id1289716034, click on "View in iTunes," and you're ready to go. Music: Happy Rock by bensound.com

"I think the Chief Rabbinate of Israel has done more damage to Judaism... than any other organization perhaps in the history of the world." This is the opinion of Rabbi Chuck Davidson, an Orthodox rabbi whose fight against the Israeli Chief Rabbinate emerges from his love for the Jewish People and for Torah, and from his belief that the Rabbinate, rather than protecting Israel, is cutting it deeply from inside. Join Scott Kahn for a fascinating discussion with Rabbi Davidson about how he became involved in this issue, what he's doing - legally and otherwise - to undermine the Rabbinate, and what he realistically hopes will happen, when all is said and done.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE Rabbi Warren Goldstein was both the youngest and first native-born ever elected as Chief Rabbi of South Africa. In the thirteen years since assuming that post, he has engaged at every level of South African Jewish and civic society. His crowning achievement perhaps has been the Shabbos (or Shabbat) Project; what began as an initiative to encourage South Africans to observe one Shabbat all together on a single Friday-Saturday, has mushroomed into a global grassroots movement spanning over 1,300 in 95 countries and 10 languages. In this interview, Rabbi Goldstein discusses the Shabbat Project, of course, but also describes his ascension to the Chief Rabbinate, meeting Nelson Mandela, thoughts about Apartheid and other insights into the state of the Jewish world. -------------------- ABOUT THIS PODCAST Jews You Should Know introduces the broader community to interesting and inspiring Jewish men and women making a difference in our world. Some are already famous, some not yet so. But each is a Jew You Should Know. The host, Rabbi Ari Koretzky, is Executive Director of MEOR Maryland (www.meormd.org), a premier Jewish outreach and educational organization. MEOR operates nationally on twenty campuses and in Manhattan; visit the national website at www.meor.org. Please visit www.JewsYouShouldKnow.com, follow us on Twitter @JewsUShouldKnow or on Facebook. Have feedback for the show, or suggestions for future guests? E-mail us at JewsYouShouldKnow@gmail.com. Want to support this podcast? Visit Patreon.com/JewsYouShouldKnow. A small monthly contribution goes a long way!! A special thank you to Jacob Rupp of the Lift Your Legacy podcast for his invaluable production assistance.

April 26, 2010 | If a peace settlement is to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, religious leaders will have to play a vitally important role. Since the mid-1990s, Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders have been working to build trust within and across their communities in the region—mainly outside the media spotlight. Rev. Dr. Trond Bakkevig of the Church of Norway has been central to those efforts. Since 2005, he has convened the Council of Religious Institutions of the Holy Land, which includes the most important religious institutions in Israel and the Palestinian territories: the Chief Rabbinate of Israel, the Meeting of the Heads of Church in the Holy Land, and Muslims appointed by the president of the Palestinian Authority. In his talk, Rev. Bakkevig discussed the accomplishments and prospects of the council and other efforts to foster religious dialogue and peace in the Holy Land.

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

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

Mixed Marriages – In or out? Join us as we imagine how Jewish Law and accepted practice could adjust to the alarmingly high rate of intermarriage in the USA and the subsequent loss of households identifying with the Jewish people. ---------------- Notes The Pew Survey Reanalyzed: More Bad News, but a Glimmer of Hope – by JACK WERTHEIMER AND STEVEN M. COHEN  It's time to allow Conservative rabbis to officiate at interfaith weddings By Seymour Rosenbloom April 4, 2016  Jethro נָבֹל תִּבֹּל גַּם אַתָּה גַּם הָעָם הַזֶּה אֲשֶׁר עִמָּךְ כִּי כָבֵד מִמְּךָ הַדָּבָר לֹא תוּכַל עֲשׂהוּ לְבַדֶּךָ You will surely wear yourself out both you and these people who are with you for the matter is too heavy for you; you cannot do it alone. Exodus 18: 18  Daughters of Zelophechad לָמָּה יִגָּרַע שֵׁם אָבִינוּ מִתּוֹךְ מִשְׁפַּחְתּוֹ כִּי אֵין לוֹ בֵּן תְּנָה לָּנוּ אֲחֻזָּה בְּתוֹךְ אֲחֵי אָבִינוּ Why should our father's name be eliminated from his family because he had no son? Give us a portion along with our father's brothers. Numbers 36 Rashi: because he had no son: But if he had a son, they would have made no claim at all. This teaches us that they were intelligent women. — [Sifrei Pinchas 15, Sifrei Pinchas 13] Usury  Exodus 22:24 (25)—If thou lend money to any of My people, even to the poor with thee, thou shalt not be to him as a creditor; neither shall ye lay upon him interest.  אִם-כֶּסֶף תַּלְוֶה אֶת-עַמִּי, אֶת-הֶעָנִי עִמָּךְ--לֹא-תִהְיֶה לוֹ, כְּנֹשֶׁה; לֹא-תְשִׂימוּן עָלָיו, נֶשֶׁךְ  Deuteronomy 23:21 (20)—Unto a foreigner thou mayest lend upon interest; but unto thy brother thou shalt not lend upon interest; that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all that thou puttest thy hand unto, in the land whither thou goest in to possess it.  לַנָּכְרִי תַשִּׁיךְ, וּלְאָחִיךָ לֹא תַשִּׁיךְ--לְמַעַן יְבָרֶכְךָ יְהוָה אֱלֹהֶיךָ, בְּכֹל מִשְׁלַח יָדֶךָ, עַל-הָאָרֶץ, אֲשֶׁר-אַתָּה בָא-שָׁמָּה לְרִשְׁתָּהּ Heter Isaka see How Does a Heter Iska Work? By Rabbi Yirmiyohu Kaganoff Heter Mechira, In the modern era, as Jews started to return to the land of Israel, the struggling farmers trying against all odds to eke out a marginal existence were confronted with the biblical law of shemita.. the requirement to let the land lie fallow every 7 years. In 1888 a bunch of the most esteemed Europeanrabbis (and the Chief Rabbi of Jaffa) came up with an innovative idea which has become known as the heter mechira (literally: permission to sell). They proposed, that just as on Passover we sell our Hametz to a non-Jew, for the Sabattical year of rest, the entire land of Israel may be sold to a gentile, so that the Jews could work the land. …By the time the next shmita cycle came around in 1895-1896, the rabbinic authorities had joined a united front permitting the sale of the land for that sabbatical year. The rabbis concluded that reality dictated a need for such action because the people could not observe the laws of shmita. In the years of 1910 and 1911, Rav Kook allowed for the sale of the land as well, reaffirming that although it was not ideal, it served an important purpose. …In the years that followed, the decision to sell the land was reevaluated before the arrival of each shmita cycle. Once the State of Israel was established, the Rabbanut (Chief Rabbinate) accepted the sale of the land every year until as recently as 2007-2008. (See Whose Land is it Anyway? By: Nava Billet published in the Yeshiva University Student Newspaper).  Gathering pace, rogue Israeli conversion court racks up new Jews Assimilation is here’ says Tzohar chairman Rabbi Stav Rabbi: Conversion Panel to Prevent Intermarriage Ger Katan in the Talmud: see Hebrew and here in English Tircha DeTzibut – טורח ציבור    Undo Duress to the community  אין גוזרין יותר משלש עשרה תעניות על הצבור לפי שאין מטריחין את הצבור יותר מדאי דברי רבי Taanit 14b A decree that a majority of the community can live with גזירה אין גוזרין גזירה על הצבור, אלא אם כן רוב הצבור יכולין לעמוד בה. קודם הנהגת תקנות וגזירות, על בית דין לבדוק אם רוב הציבור יכול לעמוד בה. עבודה זרה לו, א When a court sees it necessary to issue a decree, institute an edict, or establish a custom, they must first contemplate the matter and see whether or not the majority of the community can uphold the practice. We never issue a decree on the community unless the majority of the community can uphold the practice.  See Maimonides Code Mishne Torah Mamrim - Chapter 2 especially laws 5 - 9  On Status and Identity  See: Pledges of Jewish Allegiance: Conversion, Law, and Policymaking in Nineteenth- and Twentieth-Century Orthodox Responsa 2012 by David Ellenson and Daniel Gordis  See: On Proving Jewish Identity Oct. 2011 by Rabbi Reuven Hammer  The Rambam in Isurei Biah 19:17 cites the rule in Kiddushin 76b above and states:  All familes stand in the presumption of fitness and may enter into marriage from the very beginning.  

Rabbi Dan Roth believes there is nothing more exciting than Torah wisdom and is devoting his life to bringing that excitement to Jews around the world. A revolutionary educator, he is the founder and director of Torah Live (www.torahlive.com), an organization that creates multimedia presentations and teaching resources on both halachic and hashkafic topics.Raised in London, Rabbi Roth is a graduate of the Mir Yeshiva and received semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. While teaching at Ohr Somayach, he recognized the need for making Torah relevant to our youth - and thus Torah Live was born!Rabbi Roth now spends most of his time script writing, filming, and traveling the world to inspire individuals and educators in how to utilize today’s .technology to engage people in the beauty, and relevance, of Torah in our lives.Our Vision is to take the entire Torah and translate it into the language of our generation.The ChallengeWe are living through a communication revolution. People are taking in information in a new way. This poses a huge challenge to Jewish education: In a world of fast-moving media, how can we get people to take note of their heritage and become passionate about Judaism?The SolutionTorah Live is producing high-quality multimedia presentations about Judaism for both adults and children. Its mission is to create cutting-edge multimedia presentations that communicate Jewish values in a non-preachy, well organized, and energetic manner.

Rabbi Dan Roth believes there is nothing more exciting than Torah wisdom and is devoting his life to bringing that excitement to Jews around the world. A revolutionary educator, he is the founder and director of Torah Live (www.torahlive.com), an organization that creates multimedia presentations and teaching resources on both halachic and hashkafic topics.Raised in London, Rabbi Roth is a graduate of the Mir Yeshiva and received semicha from the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. While teaching at Ohr Somayach, he recognized the need for making Torah relevant to our youth - and thus Torah Live was born!Rabbi Roth now spends most of his time script writing, filming, and traveling the world to inspire individuals and educators in how to utilize today’s .technology to engage people in the beauty, and relevance, of Torah in our lives.Our Vision is to take the entire Torah and translate it into the language of our generation.The ChallengeWe are living through a communication revolution. People are taking in information in a new way. This poses a huge challenge to Jewish education: In a world of fast-moving media, how can we get people to take note of their heritage and become passionate about Judaism?The SolutionTorah Live is producing high-quality multimedia presentations about Judaism for both adults and children. Its mission is to create cutting-edge multimedia presentations that communicate Jewish values in a non-preachy, well organized, and energetic manner.

Allison, Don, and Noah discuss three topics of incomparable importance, and end with an anecdote about something in Israel that made them smile this week. To hell with what folks think about Israel! This year, perhaps more than ever before in history, our government seems to be saying a big "FUCK YOU" to the world. We just don’t care what you think about us. Obama? Screw you! Hollande? Up yours! Merkel? Take a hike! But why? Why? Why? The beginning of the end of the Rabbinate Blatant rebellion against Israel's Chief Rabbinate broke out this year after a group of rabbis established an alternative, “friendlier” conversion court. Everyone expected the Orthodox hegemony to get even stronger, but are the rabbis losing their grip? Dazed, confused, drunk, and depressed Israeli leftists spent this year mad, muttering, and morbidly depressed. This was the year that so many of us on the left lost our nerve, our mojo, our hope - even though now is when we need them the most: What the hell can we do to get them back?   Songs for a happy, indie Rosh Hashanah! Devek – Shir TishreiEfrat Ben-Tzur – Shnei TapuhimRona Keinan – Sof Ha-OnaYermi Kaplan – Ruach Stav

Summary of today's show: On our Thursday show, Scot Landry, Susan Abbott, Gregory Tracy, and Fr. Roger Landry consider the new headlines of the week, including the Supreme Court's ruling on the Affordable Care Act; Cardinal Seán's Fortnight for Freedom town hall; last Saturday's ordination Mass; the Redemptoris Mater Seminary gala dinner honoring Rabbi David Rosen; the Catholic Appeal passing a milestone; and Catholic Press awards for the Pilot. Listen to the show: Today's host(s): Scot Landry and Susan Abbott Today's guest(s): Gregory Tracy, managing editor of the Pilot, the newspaper of the Archdiocese of Boston, and Fr. Roger Landry, pastor of St. Bernadette Parish in Fall River Links from today's show: Some of the stories discussed on this show will be available on The Pilot's and The Anchor's websites on Friday morning. Please check those sites for the latest links. Today's topics: Supreme Court ruling; Fortnight for Freedom town hall; Ordination Mass; Redemptoris Mater dinner; Catholic Appeal; Catholic Press Awards 1st segment: Scot said big tech news from Susan. She finally got an iPhone and is turning to producer Rick Heil for help in learning how to use it. She has already added the ICatholicRadio app. It's been a busy week between the ordinations, the Fortnight4Freedom live,interactive town hall, the Redmeptoris Mater Seminary. They brought in Gregory Tracy and Fr. Roger Landry, who has just completed his move to St. Bernadette Parish. Scot said the live town hall was the first of its kind to his memory. Susan said she was impressed by the production values as well as the guests, Jim Garvey, president of Catholic University of America; Kim Daniel of CatholicVoices USA; and Angela Franks of Theological Institute for the New Evangelization. Greg said he liked it very much especially toward the end with the question and answer period. He liked the give and take among the panelists. Scot said that for those who hadn't been up to speed on these issues this town hall provided a lot of good background. Fr. Roger said he was also very impressed by the Q and A. He thought President Garvey looked like Christopher Plummer and speaks like a movie star. Angela Franks was incredibly powerful on how this isn't a war on women. Fr. Roger also thinks this is the kind of thing we should do more often, not just when we're in crisis. It's a great opportunity to learn a lot in one hour. Scot said Cardinal Seán very much liked it too and he thinks the cardinal would like to do similar things on other issues, like the Year of Faith this fall on what it's about and what he's asking Catholics in the Archdiocese to do. Scot said the Pilot article did a good job on getting quotes from the panelists, including Angela Franks: “You may have heard some in the secular media advance certain myths about the HHS mandate, which is the latest infringement on our religious liberty. For example, you might have heard that this issue is about access to contraception, or that this is just a Catholic issue, or that the Church is imposing her values on the rest of society. You might have heard that the Church is waging a war on women,” she said. “All are false, blatantly false. Clearly this issue cannot be about access to contraception, which is inexpensive and broadly available. If a person can afford a cell phone or even three lattes a month, she can quite likely afford to pay for contraception. Instead this issue is about forcing Church organizations and every Catholic to provide contraception and abortion-causing drugs and subsidize them, which are actions against public teaching,” she said. Susan said the comparison to phones and coffee grounds it in reality. Angela was succinct and refuted the major points we keep hearing in the popular press one by one. Susan also liked Angela's comment that it's up to the laity to take the lead on the front lines at the water cooler. Scot also quoted John Garvey's third point: “The framers of our constitution and the Bill of Rights protected the free exercise of religion because they thought it was important for human flourishing and happiness, but our society will not care about protecting religious freedom for long if it doesn't care about God. That is where we must begin to reform. We won't have and we probably won't need religious exemptions for nurses, doctors, teachers, social workers, if no one is practicing their religion. The best way to protect religious freedom might be to remind people that they should love God,” Garvey said. Scot said when we look at the Church as a family, many of our family members have stopped practicing their faith and we have to look in the mirror and see if we are still practicing our faith as strongly. If we don't care about our faith, then why should it be protected? Greg said the ambivalence of some Catholics was one of the arguments used against our religious liberty. Fr. Roger said the point illustrates how we got here. As for the how to move in the future, we have to grow in the importance of religion not just to society, but to each of us individually as well, which is why the Year of Faith is so important. Moving to other news, the ordination Mass took place at Holy Cross Cathedral last Saturday. The new priests are Fathers Eric M. Bennett, 31; Eric F. Cadin, 31; Felipe de Jesus Gonzalez, 34; John J. Healey, 62; Adrian A. Milik, 30; and Michael F. Sheehan FPO, 31. Father Michael Sheehan, a member of the Franciscans of the Primitive Observance, a religious community in the archdiocese, described the feeling of finally becoming a priest after completing his studies. “It is awesome. It is awesome in all of the senses of that word. On the one hand, there is the joyful thrill of knowing that you will be acting as Christ for people, and then on the other hand, there is the chilling responsibility that you will be acting as Christ for people,” he said. Father Sheehan's parents said their son felt the call to the priesthood from an early age. “I am extremely proud of Michael and all his accomplishments. It all culminates today in his ordination. We are very pleased and excited for him,” the new priest's father Gary Sheehan, 59, said. His mother Diane Sheehan, 57, said she knew her son would find success in his pursuits. “Michael has been a leader his whole life. We knew in second grade that he was going to do well whatever he did. God bless him. It has been a long time coming to this day,” she said. His grandmother, Anne P. Shannon, 83, said she knew her grandson had a calling since he was young. “I was attending the quarter of seven Mass every morning. He was with me, so I always knew that Michael was special, and that he indeed had a calling — and I was right,” she said. Scot said the ordination is the highlight for all the families, not just the new priests. Susan said she didn't attend the Mass, but watched it on TV and found herself compelled to watch the whole thing. She said she took notes on Cardinal Seán's homily in which he talked about St. Peter's denial, which he said wasn't made to a soldier with a knife, but to a waitress with an attitude. She talked about the images of the imposition of hands and how the CatholicTV coverage allowed for the sacred silence that occurred at several times during the Mass. Fr. Roger said the words of the sacrament are a continuing call to conversion 13 years after his own ordination. He looks at his hands differently now because of the sacraments he now performs with them. His hands are an extension of his body as he is an extension of Christ's Body. Fr. Roger talked about how as a priest he is now on call 24/7. He recalled a conversation with actor Jim Caviezel who played Jesus in the Passion of the Christ about the pressure that's on him all the time now to live up to that image and how he wondered how priests lived up to that their whole lives. Greg said he thought how fortunate he's been able to go to the last 10 out of 11 ordination Masses. What he recalls is the sense of emotion among the ordinands both before and after the Mass. One of his favorite moments was when the Cardinal blesses the hands of the new priests and then kisses them. The six men are starting their new assignments today. Breaking news this morning is that Archbishop Fulton Sheen has been declared Venerable, which is the second big step toward canonization. Fr. Roger said when he was in the diocese of Peoria, he'd heard about a miracle attributed to Sheen, which could advance him to the next step of beatification. He also called attention to the cause of Servant of God Alvaro del Portillo y Diez de Sollano, who was also declared Venerable, and was a major contributor to Vatican II as well as a close collaborator with Pope John Paul II. from on . Also in the Pilot this week is a story about the Redemptoris Mater Seminary gala dinner last Sunday. Susan said her first close-up experience of the NeoCatechumenal Way and the seminary was the big concert this past May at Symphony Hall and so she wanted to come to this dinner. She said it was a great dinner, honoring Rabbi David Rosen, the International Director of Interreligious Affairs of the American Jewish Committee and Director of its Heilbrunn Institute for International Interreligious Understanding. He is also the former Chief Rabbi of Ireland. He is a past chairman of the International Jewish Committee on Interreligious Consultations and is also Honorary Advisor on Interfaith Relations to the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. He serves on its Commission for Interreligious Dialogue, and represents the Chief Rabbinate on the Council of Religious Institutions of the Holy Land. Susan said he spoke about the struggle of the Jewish people for survival as well as the teaching of the Church in the Second Vatican Council on our Jewish elder brothers in faith. He also spoke about Pope John Paul II's friendship with the Jewish people. After the rabbi spoke, the seminarians of Redemptoris Mater sang “Shema Israel,” a song based on one of the most important Jewish prayers, to honor the speaker and the message. … The archdiocesan liaison to the Jewish community, Father David C. Michael gave his thoughts on the speaker and the meaning of the night for Catholic and Jewish communities in Boston. “Reaching out in love and understanding to one another, that is an important place to begin. Then we have to deepen that relationship, that's where the hard work begins. The hard work begins in the deepening,” he said. “I think that his quote of John Paul II was absolutely on target where the pope says before we can be a blessing to the nations we have to be a blessing to one another,” Father Michael said. Greg said Rosen is very significant in terms of Catholic-Jewish relations. When the Holy Father calls inter-religious meetings, it's Rosen who is called to stand next to the Pope as a representative of the Jewish faith. The audio of Rosen's speech will be on the Pilot's website on Friday. Scot said June 30 is a milestone date for the Catholic Appeal, because it's the end of the fiscal year and the end of the parish campaign. Scot said they are within $100,000 of making their fiscal year goal of $14 million but still have a long way to go to make the calendar year goal of $14 million in 2012. Scot also noted that the Pilot won seven Catholic Press Awards among 64 total awards given. Greg won an award for a photo he took to illustrate a story on the new Roman Missal. They also won an award for their editorial on the Maria Talks website as well as another on the Defense of Marriage Act. The Anchor also won an award for the columns written by Fr. Timothy Goldrick. The award was given by the Society for the Propagation for the Faith. Scot also profiled the obituary of Fr. Joseph Moynihan who was a pastor for 22 years in Westwood. 3rd segment: cot said the Supreme Court decision this morning was surprising, that Chief Justice Roberts sided with the so-called liberal wing. Scot read from : Today the United States Supreme Court issued a decision upholding as a tax the provision of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that requires individuals to purchase a health plan—the so-called “individual mandate.” For nearly a century, the Catholic bishops of the United States have been and continue to be consistent advocates for comprehensive health care reform to ensure access to life-affirming health care for all, especially the poorest and the most vulnerable.Although the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) did not participate in these cases and took no position on the specific questions presented to the Court, USCCB's position on health care reform generally and on ACA particularly is a matter of public record.The bishops ultimately opposed final passage of ACA for several reasons. First, ACA allows use of federal funds to pay for elective abortions and for plans that cover such abortions, contradicting longstanding federal policy.The risk we identified in this area has already materialized, particularly in the initial approval by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) of “high risk” insurance pools that would have covered abortion. Second, the Act fails to include necessary language to provide essential conscience protection, both within and beyond the abortion context.We have provided extensive analyses of ACA's defects with respect to both abortion and conscience.The lack of statutory conscience protections applicable to ACA's new mandates has been illustrated in dramatic fashion by HHS's “preventive services” mandate, which forces religious and other employers to cover sterilization and contraception, including abortifacient drugs. Third, ACA fails to treat immigrant workers and their families fairly. ACA leaves them worse off by not allowing them to purchase health coverage in the new exchanges created under the law, even if they use their own money.This undermines the Act's stated goal of promoting access to basic life-affirming health care for everyone, especially for those most in need. Following enactment of ACA, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has not joined in efforts to repeal the law in its entirety, and we do not do so today.The decision of the Supreme Court neither diminishes the moral imperative to ensure decent health care for all, nor eliminates the need to correct the fundamental flaws described above.We therefore continue to urge Congress to pass, and the Administration to sign, legislation to fix those flaws. Scot said it seems a measured statement. If the whole act had been struck down, the 50-plus lawsuits filed against the HHS mandate wouldn't have been needed, but today we're in the same position we were in yesterday. Greg noted that the justices in the minority would have struck down the whole law. He said the bishops were always in favor of expanding healthcare for the poor, just in a way that doesn't violate consciences. Scot said these lawsuits filed Catholic institutions continue and it is another constitutional issue about religious liberty. Today's decision was on the government's authority to enact an individual mandate. Scot said his analysis is that this clearly expands federal power, even if it's a tax on those who won't buy federal healthcare. Roberts said you can't force someone to buy healthcare, but you can tax someone for almost anything. Greg said Roberts also said he wasn't saying that this tax is a good idea. He's essentially saying that we need to respect the will of the people through their elected officials in passing a law if it's constitutional. It may not be a good law, but it's constitutional. It also means it can be repealed by the representatives as well. Scot said this is the second biggest court decision in his lifetime, second only to Bush v. Gore. Greg noted that this is different from Roe v. Wade when it invented something that didn't exist before. In this case, the court was only giving deference was being given to the elected representatives.