Podcasts about Kashrut

What are the most common commandments in the Torah? Shabbat? Kashrut? No, it's repetition after repetition about caring for the stranger, the widow, the orphan, the poor, and the daily laborer. Are these terms that identify specific roles in Biblical society that are not easily mappable onto modern society? Or is that exactly wrong -- even to the point of our mistranslating them (like "orphan") to put ourselves at a distance? 

The Four Kingdoms and the Root of the Churban We are currently in the Three Weeks, reflecting on the Churban Beit HaMikdash (the destruction of the Holy Temple). To truly understand our work during this period, we must ask: What was the root cause of the Churban ? How did it happen? Most of us are familiar with the Four Galiyot (Exiles): Bavel (Babylonia) Madai (Medes/Persians) Yavan (Greece) Edom (The current, final exile) The Imagery of the Non-Kosher Animals In Midrash Rabbah (Vayikra 13:5), the Sages explain that the four animals possessing only one kosher sign correspond directly to these four empires: The Camel (Gamal): Represents Bavel . It chews its cud (internal sign) but does not have split hooves. The Rabbit (Arnevet): Represents Yavan . It is called gera because it "drags" ( garar ) another kingdom after it. The Badger (Shafan): Represents Madai . It similarly drags another kingdom. The Pig (Chazir): Represents Edom . והוא גרה לא יגר – "But he does not chew his cud." (Leviticus 11:7) The pig only has the external sign (split hooves) but lacks the internal sign. It is called Chazir because in the end, it will return ( lehachzir ) the kingdom to its rightful place by bringing Mashiach, as it says: "And saviors shall ascend Mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau, and the kingdom shall be Hashem's" (Ovadia 1:21). External vs. Internal Sins Why are the first three animals listed in one verse, while Edom is placed in a verse by itself? The Midrash explains: שקולה כנגד שלשתן — Edom weighs as much as the other three combined. This weight directly parallels the Three Cardinal Sins vs. the singular sin of the final exile: Empire Corresponding Cardinal Sin Historical Context / Manifestation Bavel Avodah Zarah (Idolatry) Bowing down to Nebuchadnezzar's statue. Yavan Giluy Arayot (Adultery/Immorality) The decree that a bride must first visit the Greek governor. Paras/Madai Shefichut Damim (Murder) Haman's decree lehashmid laharog (to destroy and kill). Edom Sinat Chinam (Baseless Hatred) Weighs against all three; characterizes our current exile. The Modern Geopolitical Parallel Historically and culturally, these traits persist: Bavel is rooted in the Middle East/Arab world, where the camel remains a cultural symbol. Edom is rooted in Western culture, heavily associated with the pig (e.g., dietary staples like bacon and ham). Interestingly, the pig represents the ultimate spiritual barrier in Eastern theology as well, where rumors even exist of military deterrents using pigskin. The Core Difference: The First Temple fell to the Babylonians (the camels), while the Second Temple fell to Rome/Western Culture (the pigs). The Verdict of the Gemara: Open vs. Hidden The Gemara ( Masechet Yoma ) records a profound insight from Rabbi Yochanan and Rabbi Elazar: The Early Generations (First Temple): Nitgala avonam, nitgala kitzam — Their sins were out in the open (idolatry, murder, immorality), so the end of their exile was openly revealed (70 years). The Later Generations (Second Temple): Lo nitgala avonam, lo nitgala kitzam — Their sins were hidden, so the end of their exile remains hidden. This is the distinction between Chitzoniyut (externals) and Pnimiyut (internals). A Medical Analogy: A person can have severe psoriasis. It looks terrible and is externally unappealing, but it isn't life-threatening. Another person can look perfectly healthy, doing push-ups and glowing on the outside, but suffers from a hidden, internal ailment that is fatal. The Vilna Gaon on the Power of Heart The Vilna Gaon (Gra) explains that the First Temple generation committed severe, open sins, תלו בטחונם בהשם — but they still relied on God. Their actions were terrible, but their hearts remained fundamentally connected through faith. They possessed Bitachon (trust in God). Conversely, the Second Temple generation looked structurally and behaviorally righteous on the outside—they learned Torah and performed deeds of kindness—but רחמנא ליבא בעי ( Hashem wants the heart ), and their hearts were corrupt. Bitachon: The Core of the Torah What do the kosher signs actually teach us? The Vilna Gaon notes: Chewing the Cud ( Ma'aleh Gera ): Represents Histapkut (contentment). It is the trait of being happy with what one has, constantly chewing and appreciating the same spark of life. Split Hooves: Represents a non-predatory nature. Kosher animals do not have claws to attack or tear others apart. Therefore, the ultimate sign of Kashrut is a sign of Emunah (faith). The Vilna Gaon writes in his commentary on Mishlei (22:19): עיקר נתינת התורה לישראל, כדי שישימו בטחונם בהשם "The primary reason the Torah was given to Israel was so that they would place their trust in Hashem." Bitachon is the Klal —the all-inclusive principle behind every single commandment. We eat kosher to remember God provides our food. We check for shatnez to remember God provides our clothing. The Ra'avad (quoted by Rav Yerucham Levovitz) notes that marital laws ( Taharat HaMishpacha ) remind a person that God granted them their spouse. The entire theme of the Torah is realizing that everything comes from God, and we must rely entirely on Him. The Ultimate Punchline Why was the Second Temple destroyed if the people were learning Torah and doing acts of kindness? It was destroyed because of Sinat Chinam (baseless hatred) and Mechoser Bitachon (a lack of trust in God). How are the two connected? כל השנאה והקנאה ממנו — All hatred and jealousy stem directly from a lack of Bitachon. If you truly realize that Hashem is in total control of the universe, and that no one can touch what is designated for you, you cannot harbor jealousy. If you lack Bitachon , you view others as obstacles to your success, which breeds hatred. The work of the Three Weeks is to shift from the external mask of righteousness to the internal reality of perfect trust in God, thereby curing the baseless hatred that keeps us in exile.

In Ask Away #36, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe opens with a heartfelt history of TORCH — from its roots in Project SEED visits in the early 1990s, founding by five Young Israel members in 1998, to its growth as an inclusive outreach organization bringing Torah to all Jews in Houston and recently across the globe. He emphasizes unity across Jewish streams (including warm relations with Reform, Conservative, Chabad, Reconstructionist, Orthodox) and the mission of fostering connection to Hashem.Practical halacha dominates: milk/meat mix-ups, kitniyot customs on Passover, Chametz in wells or mixtures before/during Pesach, Selling Chametz procedures, and using pre-Pesach-opened kosher-for-Pesach items. He explains daylight saving time has no effect on halachic times (which follow natural sun/stars). The session closes with a deep teaching on seeing Hashem in all events — including “hidden face” moments — as opportunities for growth, like olives yielding best oil when pressed. Rabbi Wolbe blends inspiration, humor, and clear guidance throughout.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 8, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 29, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #PesachPrep, #PassoverPrep, #Chametz, #SellingChametz, #Shishim, #Kitniyos, #Kashrut, #KosherKitchen, #Hagalah, #Shabbos, #Shabbat, #DaylightSavingTime  ★ Support this podcast ★

In Ask Away #36, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe opens with a heartfelt history of TORCH — from its roots in Project SEED visits in the early 1990s, founding by five Young Israel members in 1998, to its growth as an inclusive outreach organization bringing Torah to all Jews in Houston and recently across the globe. He emphasizes unity across Jewish streams (including warm relations with Reform, Conservative, Chabad, Reconstructionist, Orthodox) and the mission of fostering connection to Hashem.Practical halacha dominates: milk/meat mix-ups, kitniyot customs on Passover, Chametz in wells or mixtures before/during Pesach, Selling Chametz procedures, and using pre-Pesach-opened kosher-for-Pesach items. He explains daylight saving time has no effect on halachic times (which follow natural sun/stars). The session closes with a deep teaching on seeing Hashem in all events — including “hidden face” moments — as opportunities for growth, like olives yielding best oil when pressed. Rabbi Wolbe blends inspiration, humor, and clear guidance throughout.Please submit your questions at askaway@torchweb.org_____________The Everyday Judaism Podcast is dedicated to learning, understanding and appreciating the greatness of Jewish heritage and the Torah through the simplified, concise study of Halacha, Jewish Law, thereby enhancing our understanding of how Hashem wants us to live our daily lives in a Jewish way._____________This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by Marshall & Doreen LernerDownload & Print the Everyday Judaism Halacha Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RL-PideM42B_LFn6pbrk8MMU5-zqlLG5This episode of the Everyday Judaism Podcast by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe of TORCH is dedicated to my dearest friends, Marshall & Doreen Lerner! May Hashem bless you and always lovingly accept your prayer for good health, success and true happiness!!!Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Levin Family Studio (B) to a live audience on March 8, 2026, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on June 29, 2026_____________Connect with Us:Subscribe to the Everyday Judaism PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-judaism-rabbi-aryeh-wolbe/id1600622789Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3AXCNcyKSVsaOLsLQsCN1CShare your questions at askaway@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.  _____________About the Host:Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life.  To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Support Our Mission:Help us share Jewish wisdom globally by sponsoring an episode at torchweb.org. Your support makes a difference!_____________Subscribe and Listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Hey Rabbi! Podcast: https://heyrabbi.transistor.fm/episodesPrayer 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 http://podcast.torchweb.org_____________Keywords:#AskAway, #Torah, #Halacha, #Q&A, #Jewish, #Halacha, #EverydayJudaism, #PesachPrep, #PassoverPrep, #Chametz, #SellingChametz, #Shishim, #Kitniyos, #Kashrut, #KosherKitchen, #Hagalah, #Shabbos, #Shabbat, #DaylightSavingTime  ★ Support this podcast ★

Leite e pão parecem os alimentos mais simples e naturais da nossa alimentação. Então por que a Halachá exige supervisão kasher para produtos tão básicos?Nesta aula vamos explorar os desafios ocultos da produção moderna de alimentos: equipamentos compartilhados, aditivos, enzimas, emulsificantes, ingredientes derivados de fontes não kasher e as diferenças entre leite comum, leite supervisionado (Chalav Yisrael) e pão supervisionado (Pas Yisrael).Uma jornada fascinante pelo mundo da Kashrut que revela como a Torá transforma até os alimentos mais simples em instrumentos de santidade e conexão com Hashem.Curtiu a aula?Faça um pix RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM e nos ajude a darmos sequência neste projeto!#Kashrut #LeiteKasher #ChalavYisrael #PasYisrael #Torah #Judaísmo #Halachá #Kosher #AlimentaçãoKasher #SegredosDaTorá #AulaDeTorá #VidaJudaica #RabinoEliahu #Chabad #casher #chalavisrael

O vinho ocupa um lugar único na tradição judaica. Ele acompanha o Kidush, as festas, os casamentos e muitos dos momentos mais sagrados da vida judaica. Mas por que justamente o vinho possui regras de Kashrut tão rigorosas?Nesta aula vamos explorar as origens haláchicas de Yayin Nesech e Stam Yeinam, entender como os Sábios utilizaram essas leis para proteger a identidade judaica e analisar a visão da Cabalá sobre a energia espiritual contida no vinho.Veremos por que o vinho é considerado uma bebida capaz de revelar o interior da pessoa, como a consciência humana influencia a matéria segundo a tradição judaica, e por que a uva e o vinho são vistos como recipientes especiais de santidade.Uma jornada fascinante entre Halachá, história e misticismo para descobrir o verdadeiro segredo do vinho kasher. Curtiu a aula?Faça um pix RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COMe nos ajude a darmos sequência neste projeto!#VinhoKasher #Kashrut #YayinNesech #StamYeinam #Torah #Judaísmo #Cabalá #MisticismoJudaico #Halacha #Kidush #Shabat #Chassidut #EstudoDaTorá #RabinoEliahuStiefelmann #AulaDeTorá #SegredosDaTorá #VidaJudaica #EspiritualidadeJudaica #Parasha #JudaismoPrático #vinhokosher #casher#kidush #kiddush

The Gemara moves on to the mishnah''s case of an animal that was missing a liver -- which is surely a treyfa -- but what if an olive's worth remained? That seems to define the animal as a kosher animal. But less than a "kezayit" amount of the liver seems that it would get that treyfa distinction. Also, 4 rulings - listed with a mnemonic. Including the case of creepy crawlies - and the question of them not bleeding, with implications for Shabbat -- all as a parallel to a punctured (or not!) lung. But note throughout here the lack of attack among the sages, despite all the differences of opinion, and with practical implications.

Por que a Torá proíbe misturar carne e leite? Nesta aula, vamos explorar os fundamentos bíblicos, haláchicos e místicos de uma das leis mais conhecidas da Kashrut. Entenderemos o significado da separação entre o que representa sustento e o que representa nutrição e vida, além das aplicações práticas dessa mitzvá no dia a dia judaico.Curtiu a aula?Faça um pix RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM e nos ajude a darmos sequência neste projeto!#Torah #Torá #Kashrut #BasarBeChalav #CarneELeite #Judaísmo #AulaDeTorá #Parasha #Mitzvot #Halacha #Cabala #EstudoDaTorá #VidaJudaica #Kosher #SabedoriaJudaica #RabinoEliahu #Chabad #JudaísmoBrasil #TorahClass #carneleite #kashrut #cosher #casher

In matters of Kashrut we tend to zoom in on the object, the food, its contents and components, the way it has been processed, its technology etc. But the Torah's concern is with the subject, the individual who observes these laws and how it elevates him. Source Sheet

Nem tudo o que parece limpo é realmente casher. Folhas, frutas e grãos podem esconder pequenos insetos invisíveis aos olhos desatentos — e a Torá considera essa uma das proibições alimentares mais severas da Kashrut. Entenda onde os insetos se escondem, como a Halachá analisa cada alimento e por que a inspeção correta se tornou essencial na alimentação judaica moderna.Curtiu a aula?Faça um pix RABINOELIPIX@GMAIL.COM e nos ajude a darmos sequência neste projeto! #Cashrut #Casher #NaoCasher #Torah #Torá #Judaísmo #LeisDaTorá #Kosher #AnimaisCasher #EstudoDaTorá #SabedoriaJudaica #SegredosDaTorá #VidaJudaica #TorahLife #AulaDeTorá #TorahStudy #Judaica #EspiritualidadeJudaica #Levitico #Kashrut #Rabino #BeitHashem #ConhecimentoJudaico #TorahWisdom #Mitzvot #kasher

Every community eventually faces moments of confusion and controversy. Recently, in Montreal, Kashrut has become one of those moments. And beneath the details, a deeper question emerges: who should we rely on when it comes to Kosher? Social media creates the illusion that everyone is an expert, and that every issue must be debated publicly. It may give us information - but not necessarily judgment, responsibility, or accountability. Frequently, it leads not to clarity, but to confusion and division. Jewish communities rely on recognized systems of Kashrut supervision - agencies built on expertise and normative Halachic standards. In Montreal that includes MK, KSR, Belz, and others such as COR, OU, OK, and Star-K. We may not understand every decision, and we may not agree with every policy, but without expert oversight, keeping Kosher becomes impossible. And what is at stake is not only what we eat. Keeping Kosher is one of the ways we live as Jews, and maintain a daily connection to something larger than ourselves. So especially in moments like this, the question is not: what did I read online? The question is: who do we rely on, and what kind of community do we want to be? Enjoy your Kosher cheesecake this Shavuot. Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship. Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/ Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO Please contact Rabbi Whitman (michael@adath.ca) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.

If one finds a string of birds in the possession of a Kuti, there are various ways of increasing rigor to test whether the Kuti had done the slaughtering properly, each of which concludes with determining whether the Kuti himself would eat from his shechitah. That is, where they accepted the halakhic requirements, they were incredibly careful -- and if they didn't accept the requirement to begin with, then they weren't trustworthy. Also, investigating Rava's view on one who intentionally eats non-kosher food - and yet that person can be relied upon for his assessment of kashrut, and even if that person does idolatry. Plus, the human enticement of food and drink just won't work for the Divine.

Podcast Jajam Shlomo (Sally) Zaed Después de Pesaj la Mitzva del Kashrut Conferencia

Is it Kosher to question Kashrut?A listener writes, “Why do Jews have Kosher rules? And how would you suggest a previously unobservant Jew approach Kashrut, if at all?”Rabbi Shira admits that teaching the laws of kashrut is one of the hardest things she has to do as a rabbi. She does her best to make sense of it all and gives her best pitch for a mindfulness-based Jewish eating practice.FAQ about Kosher lawsRead more about keeping Kosher in a non-Kosher worldRead Maimonides' commentary on the laws of KashrutGrow and BeholdSupport Chutzpod!Submit a questionContact Chutzpod!Subscribe to ChutzstackFollow Hanna on InstagramFollow Shira on InstagramFollow Shira on FacebookFollow Chutzpod on FacebookFollow Chutzpod on Instagram Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

We usually think a 'gift with strings attached' is a bad thing, but the Torah actually forbids giving without them. No Free Gifts | Terumah, Purim & The Language of Reciprocity There is no such thing as a free gift. In this episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz explore Parshat Terumah through the provocative lens of French sociologist Marcel Mauss and his groundbreaking work The Gift. Key Takeaways Every gift binds. Giving is a language. Reciprocity builds society. Timestamps [00:00] No Such Thing as a Free Gift: Torah Meets Anthropology [00:43] Terumah & Purim: Gifting as Covenant and Community Glue [01:57] Welcome to Madlik: What We're Really Exploring This Week [02:36] Hong Kong & Chinese New Year: Ritual Exchange in Real Life [04:33] Exodus 25 'Take for Me a Gift': The Strange Language of Terumah [06:21] Rashi's French 'Apaisement': Gifts, Favor, and Propitiation [12:24] Marcel Mauss' The Gift: Reciprocity vs. Utilitarianism [14:33] Potlatch, Honor, and Sacrifice: When Gifts Demand a Return [19:06] Sponsor Break: Voice Gift Tag (A Gift That Speaks) [20:00] Purim's Unique Mitzvah: Mishloach Manot as Required Reciprocity [21:38] Why No Blessing on Charity? Fixed Measures & Receiver Dependence [23:30] Megillat Esther's Two Gifts: Friends vs. the Poor [24:48] Halakhic Details: What Counts as Mishloach Manot (and Why) [28:18] Talmud Stories: Reading Meaning into the Gifts We Send [31:35] Meals, Kashrut, and Unity: Maimonides & Rabbi Riskin's Take [32:50] Closing Blessings: Shabbat Shalom and Heading Toward Purim Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter https://madlik.com/ Sefaria Source Sheet: https://voices.sefaria.org/sheets/709029 Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/  

Welcome back to The Fifth Question Podcast — I'm your host, Daniel Levine. In today's wildly unexpected episode, I sit down with ‪@DavidWilberBlog‬ — a popular Christian writer, teacher, and theologian — who makes a provocative case: Christians should be keeping Jewish (biblical/Mosaic) law.This is Part 1 of a longer conversation, and it focuses on David's framework as a Christian who practices Torah observance through Messianic Judaism — what he describes as a “Jewish form of Christianity” rooted in first-century practice.✅ What We Cover in Part 1In this episode, we unpack:

A new mishnah (from the bottom of 94) - a garment with blood that was sprayed from a sin-offering and that was later moved out of the Temple courtyard - should be brought back to the courtyard for its laundering process. Earthenware vessels would need to be destroyed... which repurifies them, essentially. Likewise, the garment might be torn, so that it could be returned the courtyard in purity. But doesn't it then become so small that it's just a tiny scrap? How to achieve that middle ground that is not a garment and therefore repurified, but still large enough to launder (only "garments" were laundered)? Also, note that anywhere that the sin-offering is cooked, there's a need for purging and rinsing. But what about a vessel in which its broth is poured? That's not cooking - and yet it needs to be broken. What about using that same vessel for a food that is quintessentially dairy, like kutach? These rules about the sacrifices inform our understanding of kashrut, certainly.

This morning we explain the change in policy regarding beer and its Kosher status. All craft beers and microbreweries require Kosher supervision, while thousands of nationally distributed beers are in fact Kosher. This is now the policy of major Kashrut organizations, and also the policy at ADATH. We analyze why this change occurred, and the lesson each of us needs to learn to apply in our own lives. Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship. Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/ Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO Please contact Rabbi Whitman (rabbi@adath.ca) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.

When Yaakov arrived at the outskirts of Haran, he saw local shepherds with their herds near the well outside the city. He asked them why they weren't giving their sheep water. The shepherds explained that they could not remove the large, heavy stone from the top of the well. They needed to wait for all the shepherds to assemble at the well so they could together roll the stone off the well. Yaakob then proceeded to the well and, by himself, pushed the stone off so the shepherds could draw water for their flocks. Rashi comments that this episode shows us that Yaakob possessed unique physical strength. We must ask, for what purpose did the Torah tells us about Yaakob Abinu's exceptional strength? What lesson are we to learn from this story? Every person, without any exceptions, has spiritual struggles. And no two people's struggles are the same. Misvot which come easily for one person is a difficult challenge for somebody else. Some people struggle to observe Kashrut, others have a hard time with Shabbat. There are those who have difficulty praying properly, and there are those who find it challenging to observe the Torah's standards of Seniut (modesty). But everyone is struggling with something. This is true even of the great Sadikim. King Shlomo teaches us in Mishleh (24:16), "Ki Sheba Yipol Sadik Ve'kam" – "For a righteous person falls seven times and gets up." Even the righteous fall – and they fall repeatedly. The difference between a righteous person and others is "Ve'kam" – that a Sadik "gets up" each and every time he falls. The wicked person, at a certain point, gives up. He decides not to bother struggling, figuring that it's just too hard for him. An example of this kind of person is Esav, about whom the Torah says, "Ve'hu Ayef" – "and he was tired" (25:29). Esav had the potential for greatness. He was no less capable of being a Sadik than Yaakob was. But he grew "tired" – he decided not to try. The Sadik doesn't get tired. He falls, often, but he keeps getting back up. How does the Sadik do this? What motivates him to keep trying, even after falling multiple times? The answer is found in one of the Birchot Ha'shahar (morning blessings), in which we thank Hashem "Ha'noten La'ya'ef Ko'ah" – "who gives strength to the weary." The Sadik keeps getting back up because he believes that Hashem is helping him and giving him strength. As long as we keep trying, Hashem gives us the abilities we need to eventually succeed. This is the difference between the wicked and the righteous: the wicked person feels powerless, and thus concludes that there is no purpose to continue trying, whereas the righteous person confidently believes that Hashem is giving him the strength he needs to improve. This is the message of the story of Yaakob Abinu's experiences at the well outside Haran. The large stone on the well symbolizes the Yeser Ha'ra, our evil inclination, the difficult – often overwhelming – spiritual challenges that we each face. Like the stone, they seem too big to move, too difficult to handle, too much for us to overcome. The shepherds, like many people, don't bother trying, because they assume they don't have the strength to succeed. Yaakob showed that when one believes in the "Noten La'ya'ef Ko'ah," he is much stronger than he thinks, and he can "remove the stone," and overcome his challenges. We are not expected to be perfect, because we are human beings, and human beings aren't perfect. We are, however, expected to try, and to try again when we don't succeed. We are expected not to grow tired, not to give up, and to instead trust that Hashem is helping us and giving us the strength we need to achieve.

On October 20th, 2025, Arthur Waskow – a revolutionary activist and teacher of Torah – died at the age of 92. He was an inspiration to our work at Judaism Unbound in more ways than we can articulate. Even as our organization was launched when he was already in his 80s, he found so many ways to collaborate with us and offer his unique forms of Torah to our audiences. He presented at 5 consecutive ShavuotLIVE gatherings, frequently moving attendees to tears, welcomed Judaism Unbound as a partner for many of his programs with The Shalom Center, and was twice a guest on this podcast.For those who would feel moved to hear from Arthur's voice shortly after his passing, we wanted to re-release those two appearances of his on Judaism Unbound. The first is Episode 166, entitled The Freedom Seder, and the second is a bonus episode called Confronting Carbon Pharaohs.Well into his 90s, Arthur Waskow was committed in mind, spirit, and body to the betterment of our world. He reminded us, over and over, that the word Adamah – meaning earth or soil – and the word Adam – meaning earthling, are intertwined, meaning all of us as earthlings are inherently connected to the planet, earth, that we live on. May his memory be for a blessing and a revolution. ----------------------------------Donations in honor of Arthur Waskow's life and legacy can be directed to The Shalom Center -- an organization he founded -- via this link.

Entemann's doughnuts are treif!?Why can't you pass bread hand to hand!?3 levels of kashrut of milk (Chalav stam is not a real thing!?)

Podcast Jajam Shlomo (Sally) Zaed El Kashrut. La dieta de cada Yehudí Conferencia

Kashrut of soft cheese created by milk that mixed with not-kosher-supervised bacterial cultures which promote its fermentation

Dan Libenson and Lex Rofeberg are joined by author Jordan Rosenblum to discuss his National Jewish Book Award-winning book, Forbidden: A 3,000-Year History of Jews and the Pig. Interested in learning more about why the pig has felt so terribly treyf (yid. “non-kosher”) all these years? Rosenblum peels back the thick layers of meaning to get to the gristle. Apply for the UnYeshiva's Certificate Program for Unbound Judaism by heading to www.judaismunbound.com/certificate!Access full shownotes for this episode via this link. If you're enjoying Judaism Unbound, please help us keep things going with a one-time or monthly tax-deductible donation -- support Judaism Unbound by clicking here!

"If a man does well, they say to him, you preceded the angels; if he does not, they say to him: (in creation) the fly preceded you, the gnat preceded you, the snail preceded you." - Reish LakishBut what does this have to do with the laws of Kashrut and ritual purity?

Rabbi Amy Bernstein's weekly Torah study class in person and via Zoom -Leviticus/Vayikra 11:1 - April 25, 2025.

This week's parsha includes the instructions about the laws of Kashrut, which remain some of the most complicated and baffling commandments in Judaism. How can the things we choose to eat—or not eat—define us? And can keeping a mitzvah truly transform us even if we're not feeling transformed? Tune in to find out.   Sivan Rahav-Meir is a leading Israeli journalist, media personality, and Torah scholar. You can sign up for her The Daily Thought WhatsApp group, where Sivan sends small insights about Judaism and current affairs. Check out Liel Leibovitz's new book, How the Talmud Can Change Your Life: Surprisingly Modern Advice from a Very Old Book, available directly from the publisher or wherever you purchase books. You can find all of Tablet's podcasts at tabletmag.com/podcasts.

What is the significance of 8 in Judaism? Can we learn from Aharon's response to tragedy? What is the meaning behind the Kashrut laws? All this and more in this week's Ponderings on the Parsha!

In this fascinating conversation with Rabbanit Dena (Freundlich) Rock, we use the repeated verse, "Do not cook a kid in a mother's milk" to explore the relationship between Halakhic development and its divine source. Then we explore different rationales for Kashrut laws as well as the reasons why observant Jews wait different amounts of time between meat and milk. This week's episode has been sponsored in memory of Deanna Radin Lubin by her family on her 9th yahrtzeit. Our Vayikra series focuses on the lived experience of Torah observance and explores some of the harder issues within observant communities in accordance with the mitzvot taught in each weekly parsha.

Héroes del Pueblo Judío # 68 R” Moshe Peretz Mitos sobre el kashrut de Pesaj by Suri Cattan

Rav Yosef Shalom Elyashiv (contemporary) records the practice of the "Medakdekim" (those who are especially meticulous in their Halachic observance) not to rely on any Kashrut certification of Masot, and instead eat on Pesah only Masot that they baked personally (listen to audio recording for precise citation). He ruled that it is therefore preferable for people to form groups that bake Masot and personally oversee the entire process, including cleaning the utensils, to make sure that the Masot were baked properly. The reason for this custom is that Masa is the product that can most easily become Hametz. Therefore, it is worthwhile for communities to form Haburot (groups) to bake Masa themselves, rather than rely on the industrial manufacturers, even those with valid Kashrut supervision, given the mistakes that could occur in the industrial manufacturing process. This would certainly be an advisable practice for synagogues, to go as a group to a Masa factory several months before Pesah to bake the Masot that they then eat on Pesah. The Mishna Berura (459:10) writes that those baking Masot must work especially rapidly when placing the Masot into the oven. The area right outside the oven is, of course, very hot, and the intense heat could cause the dough to ferment and become Hametz before the Masa has a chance to bake. It is therefore critical not to delay at all near the oven, and to place the Masa from the stick into the oven immediately. A question was once brought to Rav Elyashiv concerning a bakery where one Masa was held on the stick for several moments before being put down in the oven, while the baker searched for a suitable spot inside the oven. This Masa was later mixed with the other Masot in that batch, and the question arose whether perhaps the entire batch should be deemed unsuitable, given the possibility that the Masa in question had become Hametz due to the delay in placing it inside the oven. Rav Elyashiv ruled leniently, noting that we may rely on the possibility that the Masa had already begun to bake inside the oven, and thus did not have a chance to become Hametz. In any event, the fact that the question was raised demonstrates the importance of working rapidly during the process of placing the Masot into the oven. Rav Elyashiv ruled that when possible, each stick used for placing Masot into the oven should be used only once. The stick absorbs some of the dough, and that dough may become Hametz inside the wood of the stick and then affect the Masot that are placed upon it subsequently. This is a measure of stringency that may not be feasible in an industrial system, and this is yet another reason why it is preferable, for this who are able, to bake their own Masot, as they are able to maintain the highest standards, which are not always practical in large-scale production. The custom is to examine each Masa that comes out of the oven and discard any "Masa Kefula," meaning, a Masa that has folded over, and is not perfectly flat. The concern is that the dough in the folded area was not fully baked and thus became Hametz, and therefore any "Masa Kefula" is broken and then put to the side and considered Hametz. Rav Elyashiv ruled that if a "Masa Kefula" had been placed on top of another Masa, the Masa on the bottom is permissible for use on Pesah. We do not have to go so far as to suspect that the bottom Masa became Hametz from the top Masa. Summary: It is worthwhile, when possible, to bake one's own Masot for Pesah, rather than rely on the supervision of Masa factories. When one bakes Masa, he must ensure not to allow the Masot to stand still for even a moment right near the oven; they must be placed from the stick into the oven immediately, without any delay whatsoever. It is customary to discard Masot that doubled over during baking, and are not perfectly flat. The Masot that were underneath such a Masa are permissible for Pesah.

In this week's parasha , Mishpatim , the Torah teaches us how careful we must be not to cause harm to another person or his property. Right after Matan Torah , the first mitzvot that Bnei Yisrael were taught were the civil laws governing interpersonal relationships. We must take to heart that the same Hashem who commanded us to observe Shabbat , Kashrut , and Taharot HaMishpacha also commanded us to compensate others if we cause them damage. The same kedusha that we receive by fulfilling mitzvot between us and Hashem is present when we fulfill mitzvot ben adam l'chavero . Just as a person understands that he cannot possibly know the halachot of Shabbat without learning them, he must also understand that he cannot possibly know the halachot of monetary law without studying them or consulting a rav . Those who are truly yirei shamayim are extremely careful when it comes to monetary halachot . Just as they would not take a chance with consuming something that is not kosher , they are equally meticulous about not violating laws related to theft or withholding payments owed to others. Rabbi Shlomo Levenstein told the following story: A young rabbi in Bet Shemesh had been learning in kollel for years but was not satisfied with the upcoming sugyot they were scheduled to study. He began searching for a kollel that was learning the topics he was most passionate about, but after months of searching, he was unable to find what he was looking for. Meanwhile, his household expenses continued to mount, and he had no source of income to cover them. One day, his wife went to the grocery store. After checking out, she met someone she knew outside and began talking. In the middle of their conversation, her shopping wagon slipped away unnoticed. Suddenly, someone shouted, alerting her that the wagon was rolling straight toward the street. She ran to catch up with it, managing to grab it just before it entered the road. However, on its way, the wagon had hit a parked car, leaving a scratch. She returned home and told her husband what had happened. He immediately jumped out of his chair and exclaimed, "Oh no! We damaged someone's property and didn't pay for it. We owe him money! We must find him at once." Without hesitation, they hurried out of the house and ran back to the grocery store. When they arrived, the woman pointed out the car that had been scratched, and they saw that the driver was just pulling out of the parking spot. The young rabbi motioned for the driver to stop so he could speak with him. He explained that his wife had accidentally scratched the car with her shopping wagon. The driver responded that he had seen the scratch and was very upset that someone had damaged his brand-new car without leaving a note. He said, "If the car had been old, it wouldn't have bothered me so much. But I just got this car two days ago. It really upset me." The young rabbi apologized profusely, gave the driver his phone number, and told him, "No matter what it costs, we will pay the full price." As the rabbi and his wife walked home, he began to wonder how he would possibly pay for the damages. It was never a question of whether he would pay—only a question of how . A minute later, as they continued walking, he bumped into a friend who asked how he was doing. He mentioned that he had been searching for a new kollel but had not been able to find the right one. The friend responded, "I actually just opened a kollel that is learning exactly what you're looking for. We have nine avreichim and one spot left." Not only that, but the stipend they were paying was significantly higher than what he had been receiving in his previous kollel . The rabbi immediately told his friend, "I would love to join." Afterward, he reflected on what had happened. "Paying for damages when you don't have the money is difficult. But when Hashem saw that I was willing to do the right thing, He gave me the greatest gift—the kollel I had been searching for—as well as the ability to pay for the damages." Every mitzva is precious. Just because monetary laws involve other people and seem like mundane matters does not mean they have any less kedusha than mitzvot between us and Hashem. Hashem wants us to be complete in all mitzvot . And those that involve parting with money—especially when it is difficult—are even greater in His eyes. Shabbat Shalom.

As part of the event of Matan Torah, when G-d revealed Himself to Beneh Yisrael and gave the Torah, Moshe constructed an altar and had sacrifices offered. We read that Moshe placed half the blood in basins, from which he later sprinkled blood on the people, and he poured the other half on the altar (Shemot 24:6). Rashi, surprisingly, comments that the division of the blood into two halves was done by an angel. It would be impossible for a human being to divide the blood in two precisely equal halves, and so an angel was sent from the heavens to do this. We must wonder, why did Hashem find it necessary to dispatch an angel for this purpose? Why was it so critical for the halves to be precisely equal? Would these sacrifices have been in any way deficient if one portion of blood was slightly larger than the other? Rav Yitzchak Hutner (1906-1980) answered this question by exploring the symbolism of the division of the blood at the time of Matan Torah. If we would ask most Jews to define the term "religious Jew," to describe the defining characteristics of people referred to with this term, most would likely mention things like Shabbat observance, modest dress, eating kosher, synagogue attendance and daily Tefilot. People generally tend to define "religious" as ritual observance. In truth, however, these rituals are only half the story. Ethical conduct, integrity, kindness and sensitivity to others are no less a part of Torah than praying three times a day, Shabbat, Kashrut, and Seniut (modesty). In fact, Rashi begins his comments to our Parasha, Parashat Mishpatim, by noting the significance of the first letter of this Parasha: "VE'eleh Ha'mishpatim" – "AND these are the statutes…" Rashi writes that this letter – the conjunction "Ve-" ("And") – indicates a connection between the end of the previous Parasha, which tells of the Revelation and the Ten Commandments, and the civil laws presented in Parashat Mishpatim. Just as the Ten Commandments were proclaimed at Mount Sinai, so were the laws of Parashat Mishpatim given at Mount Sinai. We can never draw a wedge between Torah and ethical interpersonal conduct. The laws of Parashat Mishpatim, which govern the way we treat our fellow, are no less a part of the Torah as any of the other Misvot. So crucial is this message, Rav Hutner explained, that Hashem sent an angel to divide the sacrificial blood at the time of Matan Torah into two precisely equal parts. It was critical to convey the message that neither half of Torah carries even slightly more weight than the other. The two areas of Torah life – our obligations to Hashem, and our obligations to other people – are of exactly the same level of importance, and we must never allow ourselves to prioritize or emphasize one over the other to even the slightest degree. It is likely no coincidence that Parashat Mishpatim, the section in which this point is expressed, is always read around the time of 25 Shevat, the Yahrtzeit of Rav Yisrael Salanter (1809-1883), founder of the Mussar movement. Rav Yisrael placed very strong emphasis on maintaining this balance, on not allowing our pursuit of spiritual excellence to result in compromises in our Middot (character traits). One famous example is the time when his students approached him before they went to bake Masot in preparation for Pesach, to ask which stringencies are proper for them to observe when baking Masot. "Be very careful not to yell at the woman in charge of cleaning the factory," Rav Yisrael replied. "She's a widow. Concern for her feelings is the most important stringency you should observe." Rav Yisrael feared that in the students' concern to maintain the strictest Halachic standards for the Masot, they might neglect the more basic religious obligation to speak to widows with sensitivity and respect. As we approach his Yahrtzeit, let us internalize this vitally important lesson, and ensure to ascribe the same degree importance to both parts of the Torah, because this is what being a complete Jew means.

Order Raquel's book here: https://amzn.to/4hNHOVx   Raquel Kirszenbaum was born in margarita island in Venezuela and moved to Panama when she was 6 years old. After completing high school in Panama she went to Israel to experience what would be a life-changing experience. She joined Neve Yerushalaim College for Jewish studies and chose for herself a life path full with vibrant Judaism. After studying there for some time and growing as much as she could she was invited to teach in Panama where she started her career teaching all kinds of Judaic studies for high school and midrasha horev the first superior Judaic studies school for women in Panama.   She has developed extensively her career teaching Judaism to all kinds of women from all paths of life, becoming a sought after speaker in Jerusalem and internationally; having spoken in different cities in the USA, Chile, Argentina, Panama, Mexico, Costa Rica, etc. Has also been invited to speak at the prestigious Sinai Indaba in South Africa.   Raquel also has the pleasure and privilege to be a Trip leader for the JWRP “Jewish women's renaissance project” which has given her the opportunity to teach and reaching hundreds of women around the world, starting them in their journey!    She teaches in multiple places being the main one neve Yerushalaim where she teaches daily to women searching for higher meaning and understanding in life; she is also constantly invited to teach college groups and others of its kind and a very popular speaker for hidabroot in English, and various kiruv and college programs in Israel from all around the world. Her unique style of teaching attracts people from all levels and personalities, she takes you on a journey where emotion and intellect join in a beautiful way that is full of humor, enthusiasm, and happiness. She wishes to continue doing this which she considers an amazing gift having the opportunity to share the gift she has received and the joy she feels with others.   ► Colel Chabad Pushka App - The easiest way to give Tzedaka   https://pushka.cc/meaningful ____________________________________________________   ► PZ Deals - Download the app and never pay full price again!   https://app.pz.deals/install/mpp ____________________________________________________   ► Rothenberg Law Firm - Personal Injury Law Firm For 50+ years! Reach out today for a free case evaluation   https://shorturl.at/TsoU6 ____________________________________________________   ► Town Appliance - Visit the website or message them on WhatsApp   https://www.townappliance.com   https://bit.ly/Townappliance_whatsapp ____________________________________________________   ►Qualify Protein- Qualify Protein is a high-quality, Kosher-certified protein brand designed for those who prioritize both nutrition and Kashrut. Made in Israel, it provides a much-needed solution for people looking for delicious, effective, and highly Kosher protein—and now, it's finally available in the U.S.!    Shop Now: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Qualify/page/86ADFE72-A7CA-4D8F-BD98-AAD765B6 3394?ref_=ast_bln  More Info on Website: https://qualifyprotein.com/ Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/qualifyprotein/            ►Chesed 24/7-You don't want to miss the afterparty this year! Including access to the nickelodeon park! Sign up at run4chesed.org Sign up by January 22 to get an extra spectator!   https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/EastRutherford/Run2475K   ____________________________________________________   ► ILS - Ordering title should not be a surprise   https://ilstitle.com/ ____________________________________________________   ► Growtha - We get you more leads.   https://growtha.com/meaningful ____________________________________________________   ► Lalechet -    We're a team of kosher travel experts, here to carry you off to your dream destination swiftly, safely, and seamlessly in an experience you will forever cherish.   https://www.lalechet.com/website       ____________________________________________________   ► Subscribe to our Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.   https://apple.co/2WALuE2 https://spoti.fi/39bNGnO

Over millennia, countless dietary traditions have formed around the world; many are tied strictly to religious traditions, and have thereby been empowered to stand the test of time (with some scientific speculation).We examine the details that outline kosher food, and how it's much stricter than halal diets (which are hardly monolithic). We also look at the Christian narrative that discards the Kashrut laws. Some keep it simple and categorically refuse to eat meat of any kind.Taking proper care of your kitchen is important for a lot of reasons, you shouldn't have to fear religious discipline to keep it clean, though religious tradition certainly informs the standards of cleanliness for many.There's an ancient tradition that separates fish from other meat, too.In addition to all the rules about what to eat, there are also some strict rules about when to eat, and feasts are an important part of every serious religion. Whether we fast or celebrate the harvest, we do it together, and strengthen the community.All this and more... Support us on Patreon or you can get our merch at Spreadshop. Join the Community on Discord. Learn more great religion factoids on Facebook and Instagram. 

Mitzvah #68 - מאכלים אסורים Part 3 - Eating with Intent The Symbolic Depth of Kashrut Why does the Torah allow us to eat some animals but not others? Based on Rav Hirsch's teachings, this episode looks at how Kashrut shapes our mindset, encouraging mindfulness and spiritual awareness. We'll also explore the risks of living a life driven by materialism or determinism and how Kashrut helps us live with greater intention and purpose.

Rabbi Joseph Dweck is an American rabbi and hazzan, who serves as Senior Rabbi of the Spanish and Portuguese Jewish community of the United Kingdom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Dear Rabbi, the podcast where we explore Jewish traditions and practices! 

In Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17 (Parashat Re'eh), we are called to discern between what we need, what we want, and what we can give. Kashrut, the dietary laws, teaches us mindfulness in consumption—urging us to be conscious of our needs and disciplined in our wants. It's a spiritual practice that elevates the act of eating, transforming a basic need into an opportunity for holiness. When we consider poverty, we are reminded that some struggle even to meet their most basic needs. The Torah commands us to open our hands to those in need, highlighting our responsibility to give. This balance—between self-discipline and generosity—is the heart of a just society. As we navigate our desires, let us remember that true fulfillment comes not just from what we acquire but from what we share, creating a community where everyone has enough.

How do our perceptions, whether clear or confused, impact our understanding of Torah and our relationships? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Brent Chaim Spodek explore Parshat Re’eh, focusing on the intriguing and often perplexing laws of kashrut. They … Read the rest The post Re'eh 5784: Kashrut and Spiritual Clarity first appeared on Elmad Online Learning. Continue reading Re’eh 5784: Kashrut and Spiritual Clarity at Elmad Online Learning.

Rabbi Adam Kligfeld's Shabbat Sermon at Temple Beth Am, Los Angeles, April 13, 2024. (Youtube)

"If a man does well, they say to him, you preceded the angels; if he does not, they say to him: (in creation) the fly preceded you, the gnat preceded you, the snail preceded you." - Reish LakishBut what does this have to do with the laws of Kashrut and ritual purity?

Rabbi Yisroel Bernath discusses the upcoming solar eclipse and the lessons we can learn from it. He explores the relationship between the sun and the moon, highlighting the dangers of jealousy and the importance of independent and critical thought. He also delves into the significance of the Torah's laws of kashrut (keeping kosher) and how they teach us about our connection to G-d. Rabbi Bernath emphasizes the need for self-reflection, learning from our experiences, and standing up for what is right.TakeawaysThe solar eclipse serves as a reminder of the power and beauty of nature and the need for self-reflection.Jealousy is a destructive emotion that should be avoided at all costs.Independent and critical thought is a valuable trait that should be encouraged, especially in the pursuit of knowledge and education.The Torah's laws of kashrut teach us about our connection to God and the importance of following commandments.We should learn from our experiences and strive to be better individuals, standing up for what is right.Sound Bites"So many arguments in our world, similar to the moon and the sun, two rulers cannot rule over the same space.""Our sages specifically encourage envy amongst Torah scholars. It says in the Talmud, the envy of the scholars increases wisdom.""The value of independent and critical thought is a powerful and important value that the world desperately needs." Support the showDonate Here | https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=36 Donate Here in US dollars https://ndg.chabadsuite.net/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=15

This week we're talking Parshat Shemini, which tells the story of the death of Aaron's two sons, and gives insights into the laws of Kashrut. And, as Sivan tells us, the two go hand in hand: the death of Aaron's sons teaches us the importance of silence, while the laws of kashrut teach us how to differentiate. Got questions? Sivan's got answers. Sivan Rahav-Meir is a leading Israeli journalist, media personality and Torah scholar. You can sign up for her The Daily Thought WhatsApp group, where Sivan sends small insights about Judaism and current affairs. Check out Liel's new book, How the Talmud Can Change Your Life: Surprisingly Modern Advice from a Very Old Book, available directly from the publisher, or wherever you purchase books. You can find all of Tablet's podcasts at tabletmag.com/podcasts.

If a person is staying in a hotel on Shabbat, and the non-Jewish hotel staff brewed coffee for its guests, the majority of whom are not Jewish, may he drink this coffee? As a general rule, Halacha allows benefitting from a Melacha performed on Shabbat by a non-Jew for a non-Jew, as long as it is clear that no additional Melacha was performed for a Jew. However, the Shulhan Aruch (Orah Haim 325:6) makes an exception when it comes to bread. If a non-Jew bakes bread for himself on Shabbat, even though all the ingredients are kosher, a Jew may not partake of this bread. (The Shulhan Aruch writes that this is permissible only "Bi'she'at Ha'dahak" – under extenuating circumstances.) The question thus arises as to the reason for this exception, and whether it applies to freshly-brewed coffee, as well. The Mishna Berura (Rav Yisrael Meir Kagan, 1839-1933) brings two reasons for this Halacha. The first reason is that the bread is forbidden because of the rule of "Nolad," which forbids making use of something which came into existence before Shabbat. Bread baked on Shabbat did not exist before Shabbat, as when Shabbat began there was only flour and the other ingredients, and thus the bread is forbidden on Shabbat. The second possibility, which the Mishna Berura cites from the Mordechi, is that since people are drawn after food, the Sages forbade partaking of food prepared on Shabbat by non-Jews for non-Jews. If this were allowed, the Sages feared, then people might then ask non-Jews to prepare food for them on Shabbat, in violation of Halacha. The Ben Ish Hai (Rav Yosef Haim of Baghdad, 1833-1909) discusses (in Parashat Teruma) the question of how this might affect the status of coffee prepared by gentiles on Shabbat. The context of his discussion is the practice that many Jews in Baghdad had at that time to drink coffee in gentile shops on Shabbat. They would make an arrangement with the shopkeepers before Shabbat to avoid having to pay money on Shabbat, and then enjoy on Shabbat the freshly-brewed coffee which was prepared by the gentile shopkeepers for their predominantly non-Jewish clientele. The Ben Ish Hai writes that as for the first concern, the prohibition of "Nolad," one could argue that coffee, unlike bread, does not fall under this category. After all, coffee is, essentially, flavored water, and the water and coffee beans both existed before Shabbat. Coffee differs in this respect from bread, which is an entirely new entity once it is baked. Therefore, one could certainly contend that coffee brewed on Shabbat should not be forbidden on the grounds of "Nolad." (The Ben Ish Hai draws proof from the fact that we recite "Sha'hakol" on coffee, not "Ha'etz," indicating that Halacha treats coffee essentially as flavored water.) However, the Ben Ish Hai writes, the second concern – that food prepared by gentiles on Shabbat is treated differently than other cases of Melacha performed by gentiles – would, seemingly, apply to coffee just as it does to bread. Just as bread baked on Shabbat is forbidden due to the concern that one might ask a gentile to prepare bread for him on Shabbat, by the same token, coffee should be forbidden out of the concern that one might ask a gentile to brew coffee for him. Rav Shlomo Miller (contemporary) suggests distinguishing in this regard between food and beverages, proposing that perhaps people are not as drawn after beverages as they are after food. As such, perhaps there is room to permit coffee brewed by non-Jews on Shabbat. However, while this might be true regarding water – such that it would be permissible, for example, to take hot water from an urn turned on by a gentile on Shabbat for other gentiles – it would seem that coffee is no different from food in this regard. Many people very much enjoy – and in fact need – coffee, and thus there is no less concern that people might ask a gentile to brew coffee for them as there is that people might ask a gentile to prepare bread for them. The Ben Ish Hai concludes that those who drink the coffee in the gentiles' shops have a basis on which to rely, for, as we saw, according to one view, the determining factor is "Nolad," which does not apply to coffee. However, since according to others there is a special prohibition that applies to food, it is preferable to act stringently in this regard. This is the view accepted also by Hacham Ovadia Yosef, in his Halichot Olam. Therefore, it is preferable not to drink coffee brewed on Shabbat by gentiles, even if this were done for gentiles. It should be noted that this would not apply to coffee brewed by machines. The concern applies only to food or beverages prepared by a non-Jew on Shabbat; it does not pertain to machines. Therefore – assuming, of course, there are no Kashrut concerns – it would be permissible to drink coffee brewed by an automated machine on Shabbat. Summary: If a non-Jew brewed coffee on Shabbat for other non-Jews – such as in a hotel serving mainly non-Jewish guests – there is room to allow a Jew to drink this coffee (assuming, of course, there are no Kashrut concerns), though it is preferable not to drink the coffee. However, coffee brewed by an automated machine on Shabbat may be drunk (again, assuming there are no Kashrut concerns).

The Hebrew word סחורה means merchandise. When sellers in the fruit and vegetable markets shout סחורה אלף-אלף, what are they saying? And how do we say drug trafficking and drug dealers in the language of the Bible? Hear the All-Hebrew Episode on Patreon   New Words and Expressions: Socher – Trader, merchant, dealer – סוחר Socher rahitim – Furniture merchant – סוחר רהיטים Diamond dealer – Socher yahalomim – סוחר יהלומים Socher cocaine gadol – A big cocaine dealer – סוחר קוקאין גדול Socher samim, socharei samim (pl.) – Drug dealers – סוחר סמים, סוחרי סמים Sachar – Commerce, trade – סחר Sachar be-samim – Drug trafficking – סחר בסמים Hu sachar – He traded – הוא סחר Sachar hogen – Fair trade – סחר הוגן Kashrut musarit – Moral kashrut – כשרות מוסרית Sachar chuts – Foreign trade – סחר חוץ Mischar – Trade – מסחר Ha-sachar/Ha-mischar ben ha-medinot – The trade between the countries – הסחר/המסחר בין המדינות The trading day – Yom ha-mischar – יום המסחר Ha-mischar ba-bursa be-NY nisgar be-aliyot she'arim – Trading on the New York Stock Exchange closed with positive gains – המסחר בבורסה בניו-יורק נסגר בעליות שערים Mischari – Commercial – מסחרי Ha-merkaz ha-mischari – The commercial center – המרכז המסחרי Kanyon – Shopping mall – קניון Pakach, ani porek s'chora – Dear inspector, I am unloading merchandise – פקח, אני פורק סחורה “Schora alef alef” – A1 merchandise, great stuff – סחורה אלף-אלף Hevi/sipek et ha-schora – He delivered the goods – הביא/סיפק את הסחורה Ha-ona ha-hadasha shel ha-sidra sipka et ha-schora – The new season of this series delivered the goods – העונה החדשה של הסדרה סיפקה את הסחורה S'chorot – Goods, commodities – סחורות Ha-dolar nischar etmol… – The dollar was traded yesterday… – הדולר נסחר אתמול   Playlist and Clips: Socher cocaine gadol Drug dealing – Sachar be-samim Fair Trade – Sachar Hogen Rami Kleinstein – Huts mimech kloom (lyrics) Assi Cohen & Guri Alfi – Pakach Ani Porek S'chora (lyrics) Shuk ha-carmel (avira, atmosphere)   Ep. no. 114 about kosher, kashrut