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Links For The Occult Rejectshttps://linktr.ee/theoccultrejectsOccult Research Institutehttps://www.occultresearchinstitute.org/Substackhttps://substack.com/@theoccultrejects?r=7auau0&utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-pageCash Apphttps://cash.app/$theoccultrejectsVenmo@TheOccultRejectsBuy Me A Coffeebuymeacoffee.com/TheOccultRejectsPatreonhttps://www.patreon.com/TheOccultRejectsBibliographyAguilar, L. A., et al. “Total Solar Eclipse Triggers Dawn Behavior in Birds.” Science, 2025. Used for the updated science support showing that the April 8, 2024 total eclipse altered North American bird behavior, including dawn-like vocal responses.Britannica. “9 Celestial Omens.” Used for the Thales / Battle of the Eclipse tradition and the broader theme of celestial events being interpreted as historical omens.Britannica. “Apopis.” Used for Apep/Apopis as the serpent enemy of Re/Ra, the demon of chaos, and the force outside the ordered cosmos.Britannica. “Eclipse — Medieval European.” Used for medieval eclipse records, especially the 733 CE annular eclipse described as a “black and horrid shield.”Britannica. “Hindu Calendar.” Used for Hindu sacred timing, lunar-solar calendrical structure, and the religious context that helps explain eclipse observance as ritually serious time.Britannica. “Ma'at.” Used for Ma'at as truth, justice, balance, and cosmic order in ancient Egyptian religion.Britannica. “Navagraha.” Used for Rahu and Ketu as eclipse-associated shadow planets and lunar-node powers in Indian astral religion.Britannica. “Samudra Manthana / Churning of the Ocean of Milk.” Used for the mythic background of devas, asuras, amrita, Vishnu, Mohini, Rahu, and Ketu.Britannica. “Solar Eclipse.” Used for basic solar-eclipse definition and the Moon's shadow crossing Earth.Britannica. “The Sun Was Eaten: 6 Ways Cultures Have Explained Eclipses.” Used for comparative eclipse mythology, especially devourer myths, Chinese dragon traditions, Rahu, and Batammaliba reconciliation themes.Britannica. “What Causes Lunar and Solar Eclipses?” Used for clear basic mechanics of lunar and solar eclipses.CDLI / Cuneiform Digital Library Initiative. “Solar Omens of Enūma Anu Enlil: Tablets 23 (24)–29 (30).” Used for bibliographic information on van Soldt's edition of the solar omen tablets.European Space Agency. “27 August.” Used for the 413 BCE lunar eclipse during the Athenian retreat from Syracuse and Nicias' delay.Exploratorium. “Eclipse Stories from Around the World.” Used for global comparative eclipse stories, including Norse wolves, Batammaliba reconciliation, and other recurring mythic patterns.Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition. “Practice During Solar and Lunar Eclipses.” Used for Tibetan Buddhist practice advice, merit multiplication, and eclipse as intensified sacred time.Izzuddin, Ahmad, Mohamad A. Imroni, Ali Imron, and Mahsun. “Cultural Myth of Eclipse in a Central Javanese Village: Between Islamic Identity and Local Tradition.” HTS Teologiese Studies/Theological Studies, 2022. Used for Batara Kala, eclipse devouring myths in Java, pregnancy/livestock concerns, and living village practice.NASA. “Why Do Eclipses Happen?” NASA Science. Used for solar and lunar eclipse geometry, alignment, lunar nodes, and the reason eclipses do not occur every month.NASA Space Place. “Lunar Eclipses and Solar Eclipses.” Used for simple public-facing explanations of solar and lunar eclipse mechanics.National Folk Museum of Korea. “Solar and Lunar Eclipse / Ilsik, Wolsik.” Used for Bulgae, the Korean fire dogs from the Dark World who cause eclipses by biting the Sun and Moon.NOAA NESDIS. “NOAA Satellites View Total Solar Eclipse.” Used for environmental effects during totality, including temperature drops, changes in local air circulation, cloud behavior, and animal confusion.Rochester, University of. “Surprising Facts and Beliefs About Eclipses During Medieval and Renaissance Times.” Used for the point that medieval astronomers understood eclipse prediction while still interpreting eclipses as morally or religiously serious.Sefaria. Sukkah 29a. Used for rabbinic material treating eclipses as ominous signs.Sunnah.com. Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 16, “Eclipses.” Used for the hadith that the Sun and Moon do not eclipse because of the life or death of any person and that the correct response is prayer and invocation.The Metropolitan Museum of Art. “The Solar Eclipse and the Substitute King.” Used for Mesopotamian eclipse omens, danger to the king, priestly divination, substitute kingship, and the šar pūḫi ritual.U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. “Wildlife Behavior and a Solar Eclipse.” Used for darkening skies, cooling temperatures, and wildlife shifting toward nighttime routines.University of Pittsburgh World History Center. Lilly Taylor, “Solar Eclipses and World History.” Used for the Batammaliba tradition of making peace and ending disputes during eclipse.van Soldt, Wilfred H. Solar Omens of Enūma Anu Enlil: Tablets 23 (24)–29 (30). Leiden: Nederlands Historisch-Archaeologisch Instituut te Istanbul, 1995. Used for Mesopotamian solar omen literature and the textual archive of unusual solar phenomena.This keeps Part 1 sourced without dragging Part 2's Mesoamerica, Andes, North American Indigenous, Australian, Arctic, Pacific, colonial, and modern eclipse-pilgrimage sources into the wrong half.Also want to remind people about the website, if you're into reading we have tons of information by multiple contributors, and we got t-shirts up on the site if you're interested. Fun fact, the art is all based on the eyeball. A
Author and social entrepreneur Joshua Foer is the co-founder of several initiatives to make Jewish learning and cultural exploration accessible worldwide, including Sefaria, the open-access library of Jewish texts, Lehrhaus, a community hub in Somerville, the Jewish film and TV production company Leviathan, and the design competition Sukkah City. He is also the co-founder of Atlas Obscura and author of Moonwalking with Einstein, an international bestseller published in 37 languages. Josh was recently named one of the 50 most innovative Jews of the last 50 years in Moment Magazine.
This episode is part 2 of 2 addressing a video from Dan McClellan called "Was 1 Enoch considered inspired scripture?"Dan McClellan claims to be a Latter-day Saint, although his views don't reflect those of typical Mormons. He has impressive credentials and he uses them to make Tiktok and YouTube videos that promote a deconstructionist view of Scripture under the guise of "Data > dogma." He also promotes leftist political ideas that are uniformly Marxist and identity politics.This episode reviews a bit then looks at McClellan's arguments for why 1 Enoch is behind the New Testament doctrines of demons and hell. We look at possible explanations for Jude 1:14-15 quoting 1 Enoch 1:9. Then, we examine McClellan's claim that Jesus' statement "I saw Satan as lightning fall from heaven" was likely a reference to the "animal apocalypse" vision in 1 Enoch chapters 86-90. We then see examples in the New Testament where eschatology comes from Daniel rather than 1 Enoch.Sources Cited:Dan McClellan, "Was 1 Enoch considered inspired scripture?"Dan McClellan, YHWH's Divine Images: A Cognitive Approach, (SBL Press, Atlanta, 2022).Flavius Josephus, Against Apion (Translated by William Whiston)First Enoch (Christian Classics Ethereal Library)Targum Jonathan on Isaiah 66:24, Sefaria.org.Judith 16 (NSRVUE), BibleGateway.org."Aratus, Phaenomena," theoi.com."Cleanthes' Hymn to Zeus," hellenion.org.We value your feedback!Have questions for Truthspresso? Contact us!
This week, we wrap up our Staff Pick countdown with our #1 episode of the year. What Is Shabbat—Really? goes beyond the long list of “don'ts” to uncover the deeper joy and purpose of the Jewish Sabbath. Grounded in Genesis, Exodus, and the writings of Abraham Joshua Heschel and Joseph B. Soloveitchik, Mijal and Noam explore Shabbat as a 25-hour “palace in time”—a weekly digital detox, spiritual reset, and celebration of meaning. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Abraham Joshua Heschel: The Sabbath Joseph B. Soloveitchik :The Lonely Man of Faith Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media. Follow @wonderingjews on Instagram, and watch and subscribe on YouTube. ------------ This podcast is brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. Subscribe to the Unpacked newsletter: https://unpacked.bio/22f7b4 For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History
#426The Early Jewish Printed Book: Episode 4> This episode of Seforim Chatter is sponsored by Sefaria, the free digital library of Jewish texts. With Sefaria, you can access thousands of sefarim — including Gemara, Rishonim, Acharonim, halacha, and Chassidus — all fully linked and searchable. Use it to prepare a shiur, learn with a chavrusa, or explore new ideas on your own — anytime, anywhere. Visit www.sefaria.org (http://www.sefaria.org/) to explore the world of Torah online, for free.> For more on Jewish Printing and Book Culture: https://www.posenlibrary.com/guide/jewish-printing-and-book-culture> For further research see Michelle's research guide: https://guides.library.columbia.edu/c.php?g=869414&p=6240198> To purchase David W. Amram's “The Makers of Hebrew Books in Italy: Being Chapters in the History of the Hebrew Printing Press”: https://amzn.to/4peGSwN> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1> To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show
#425The Early Jewish Printed Book: Episode 3 (with Michelle Margolis)> This episode of Seforim Chatter is sponsored by Sefaria, the free digital library of Jewish texts. With Sefaria, you can access thousands of sefarim — including Gemara, Rishonim, Acharonim, halacha, and Chassidus — all fully linked and searchable. Use it to prepare a shiur, learn with a chavrusa, or explore new ideas on your own — anytime, anywhere. Visit www.sefaria.org (http://www.sefaria.org/) to explore the world of Torah online, for free.> For more on Jewish Printing and Book Culture: https://www.posenlibrary.com/guide/jewish-printing-and-book-culture> For further research see Michelle's research guide: https://guides.library.columbia.edu/c.php?g=869414&p=6240198> To purchase David W. Amram's “The Makers of Hebrew Books in Italy: Being Chapters in the History of the Hebrew Printing Press”: https://amzn.to/4peGSwN> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1> To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show
#424The Early Jewish Printed Book: Episode 2 (with Michelle Margolis)> This episode of Seforim Chatter is sponsored by Sefaria, the free digital library of Jewish texts. With Sefaria, you can access thousands of sefarim — including Gemara, Rishonim, Acharonim, halacha, and Chassidus — all fully linked and searchable. Use it to prepare a shiur, learn with a chavrusa, or explore new ideas on your own — anytime, anywhere. Visit www.sefaria.org (http://www.sefaria.org/) to explore the world of Torah online, for free.> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1> To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show
#423> The Early Jewish Printed Book Mini-Series: Episode 1> This episode of Seforim Chatter is sponsored by Sefaria, the free digital library of Jewish texts. With Sefaria, you can access thousands of sefarim — including Gemara, Rishonim, Acharonim, halacha, and Chassidus — all fully linked and searchable. Use it to prepare a shiur, learn with a chavrusa, or explore new ideas on your own — anytime, anywhere. Visit www.sefaria.org (http://www.sefaria.org/) to explore the world of Torah online, for free.> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1> To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show
Help us take Unpacked podcasts further by supporting our crowdfunding campaign: https://unpacked.bio/podgift2025 Book for the Jerusalem Marathon "Return, Reconnect, and Run for Resilience" tour: sababatravel.com Mijal and Noam dive into one of Judaism's biggest—and most deliberately open-ended—questions: What does Judaism say about the afterlife, Olam HaBa, the World to Come? They explore why humans across cultures care so deeply about life after death—justice, grief, meaning, and reward—and why the Torah is famously sparse on the subject. Drawing on classical Jewish sources from the Mishnah and Talmud to Maimonides, they unpack what Jewish tradition does (and doesn't) say about what comes next, including Olam HaZeh vs. Olam HaBa, Gan Eden, resurrection, and the risks of turning religion into a system of spiritual rewards. The takeaway: Judaism insists there is something beyond this life—while refusing to let speculation about the afterlife distract from the sacred work of living well right now. Here is a link to the story from the Talmud discussed in the episode: https://www.sefaria.org/Taanit.22a.7?lang=bi We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History
Help us take Unpacked podcasts further by supporting our crowdfunding campaign: https://unpacked.bio/podgift2025 Book for the Jerusalem Marathon "Return, Reconnect, and Run for Resilience" tour: sababatravel.com Mijal and Noam dive into the fraught conversation around tzniut (modesty), blending Jewish sources with personal stories and lived experience. They unpack what Jewish law actually says, debunk common myths about dress codes, oppression, and liberation, and wrestle honestly with how modesty shows up in real communities. Ultimately, they expand tzniut beyond clothing—toward dignity, humility, self-awareness, and agency. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History
Every once in a while, I read a d'var Torah that takes my breath away—an interpretation that is original, creative, casts a new light on an old question, and does it so persuasively that I can no longer see any other way to read the text.Josh Foer is the founder of Sefaria, a free online digital library of Jewish texts. He is also the co-founder of Lehrhaus, a Jewish tavern and house of learning in Cambridge. He is also on the board of The Jim Joseph Foundation where he recently offered a new lens on Esau. According to Josh's stunning read, Esau was the first Jew who was not into Judaism. He would not be the last. He is the patron saint of many Esaus today.Esau's father was Isaac, his mother was Rebekah, he had family yichus, but he preferred to marry a “leggy Hittite,” in Josh's phrase. This reading of Esau offers us a lens for all our children and grandchildren who choose not to value or live out their Judaism. This chronic challenge has never been more acute.There are our children and grandchildren who opt out because they never saw the value in it. Because they were never wired to connect to Jewish life. Because they fell in love with and married a non-Jewish partner, and raising Jewish children is not their priority. Because they are alienated by Israel and the posture of their parents and Jewish institutions to support Israel in these polarized times.What do we do when our rising generation is not into it?Here Josh Foer offers his most sparkling insight. Why did Esau forgive Jacob? Why did Esau kiss Jacob? Josh's answer: Because Esau was deeply good with his own life. In the intervening twenty years, Esau had moved on. Esau was busy and happy living his own life as a patriarch of his own clan. Esau was not living a Jewish life. But he was living a very happy and fulfilled life.After the reconciliation, the Torah offers us the genealogy of Esau, page after page of Esau's descendants. Historically Jews never got Genesis 36. What is it in the Torah for? Why does the Torah bother to give us five pages of who begat whom in the unimportant story of Esau. Synagogues seldom to never dwell on the eye-glazing irrelevancy of Esau's generations. The classic Jewish voice on Esau's generations is that of Rashi, who dismisses it as so much sand that a person sifts through until they find the pearl, the thing that matters, the person that matters, the story of Joseph and his brothers.Josh Foer's brilliant read on Esau reminds us that Esau is doing just fine. We who do not see him are the poorer for his not being part of our life. If Josh is right, and if we ought not to lose a single soul, what are we to do about the many, many Esaus in our families today? If we love and accept them for who and what are, is that wisdom? Or is that giving up on the Jewish story? Do we have a choice to make here, and if so, what is that choice?
Help us take Unpacked podcasts further by supporting our crowdfunding campaign: https://unpacked.bio/podgift2025 Book for the Jerusalem Marathon "Return, Reconnect, and Run for Resilience" tour: sababatravel.com In Part 2 of The Battle Over Jewish Storytelling: A Hanukkah Conversation, Mijal sits down with Dr. Tanya White to explore the deeper meaning of Hanukkah—beyond the oil. Together they unpack the three major narratives of the holiday: the historical Maccabee revolt, the rabbinic miracle of the oil, and the Al Hanisim prayer that weaves together human courage and divine presence. Speaking from Israel after October 7, Tanya reflects on a new “renaissance of the spirit” and what Hanukkah can teach us today about Jewish resilience, covenant, and hope. This timely, inspiring conversation reframes Hanukkah as a story of agency, faith, and the light we create together. Here is a link to Dr. Tanya White website, where you can learn more about her work and find links to her podcast. https://www.tanyawhite.org/ We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Note: Noam Weissman will be back next week's episode . Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History
In preparation for Hanukkah, Mijal sits down with her friend and bestselling author Sarah Hurwitz to rediscover the holiday's deeper meaning. Together they explore the grown-up story of the Maccabees, the complexities of assimilation and resistance, and how Hanukkah's themes echo the identity struggles facing Jews today. Drawing on insights from Here All Along and As a Jew, Sarah reflects on courage, community, and what it means to live proudly and unapologetically Jewish in 2025. Here is Sarah Hurwitz's website with links to her books and bio: https://www.sarahhurwitz.net/ Here All Along As a Jew We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Note: Noam was traveling at the time of this recording. Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History
Mijal and Noam break down Jewish law (halacha) as a living legal system—tracing its path from Sinai to the Mishnah, Talmud, Maimonides, and the Shulchan Aruch. They explore how halacha is interpreted, how Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions differ, the role of custom (minhag), and why debates across denominations shape Jewish life today. They share personal stories that reveal just how much they love Jewish law and how fun, engaging, and meaningful it can be. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Get in touch at WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold Unpacking Israeli History
In this special episode of Wondering Jews, Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman sit down with Prof. Moshe Halbertal to reflect on the High Holidays. Together they explore why the “Days of Awe” feel both intense and joyful, and how teshuva, tefillah, and tzedakah can restore a sense of agency and open the future. https://its.law.nyu.edu/facultyprofiles/index.cfm?fuseaction=profile.overview&personid=20653 We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
Why do Jews mark life's biggest moments with rituals—and what happens when those rituals clash with modern life? In this rich, personal, and sometimes hilarious episode, Mijal and Noam take you on a journey through the Jewish life cycle—from brit milah to bar mitzvah, weddings to funerals. They explore how different communities (Syrian, Moroccan, Ashkenazi, Persian, and more!) celebrate, grieve, and navigate transitions. Along the way, they ask tough questions about tradition, cost, creativity, and meaning—and how showing up for others may be the most Jewish act of all. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
Prayer can feel abstract—so Mijal and Noam get practical. In the second part of our In the Beginning mini-series on foundational Jewish topics, Mijal Bitton and Noam Weissman explore what Jewish prayer (tefillah/davening) is. They look at why we pray, who we pray to, and the words we use. From fixed liturgy to personal expression, this episode offers a clear, text-based guide to deepen Jewish prayer practice. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Here is a link to: This Is Real and You Are Completely Unprepared: The Days of Awe as a Journey of Transformation, by Alan Lew and Norman Fischer Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, an OpenDor Media brand. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
Is it a religion, a people, a culture, a nation - or something that refuses tidy boxes? In the first episode of our In The Beginning mini-series where we'll be covering foundational Jewish topics, Mijal and Noam trace how Jews have defined themselves or been defined across centuries and why it matters now more than ever; impacting belief, peoplehood, culture, land, shared destiny and so much more. We're proud to be collaborating with Sefaria and The Simchat Torah Challenge, on this episode along with all the other episodes of our “In the Beginning” mini-series. Learn more about these two incredible organizations here: https://simchattorahchallenge.org/ https://www.sefaria.org/texts Here are links to additional resources mentioned in the episode. Leora Batnitzky's How Judaism Became a Religion: An Introduction to Modern Jewish Thought The Tanya BOOK TICKETS for Unpacking Israeli History LIVE in NYC - Sep 7 at 92nd St Y with special guest Dan Senor: https://unpacked.bio/uihny25 Use Promo code UIH20 to get 20% off your tickets Get in touch at our new email address: WonderingJews@unpacked.media and call us, 1-833-WON-Jews. Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube. ------------ This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media. For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out: Jewish History Nerds Unpacking Israeli History Soulful Jewish Living Stars of David with Elon Gold
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 42Episode 2034For the first part of daf 42 of masechta Avodah Zarah we continue discussing the disagreement between Rabbi Yochanan and Resh Laqish regarding an avodah zarah idol that has broken on its own. After this, we come to our next mishnah, about finding different kinds of avodah zarah. I hope you enjoy. Cheers.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.42a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 41Episode 2033Today we begin the third perek of masechta Avodah Zarah. The first mishnah of the perek discusses in which scenarios an idol is forbidden. The second mishnah, also on today's daf, discusses the permissibility of broken idols. This leads to a debate between Rabbi Yochanan and Reish Laqish about whether a broken idol that has been worshipped continues to be forbidden, even in its broken state. A pretty interesting daf, getting the new perek off to a good start.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.40a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud 00:00 Intro01:27 Which idols are forbidden23:29 Broken idols33:15 Avodah Zarah that broke on its own62:30 Conclusion
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 40Episode 2032Finishing up the second chapter of masechta Avodah Zarah. On daf 40 we will finish exploring the outstanding sections of our mishnah, describing which foods of non Jews may be eaten by Jews.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.40a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 39Episode 2031Sheesh, daf 39 of masechta Avodah Zarah is kinda a dump of all sorts of foods related to ovday kokhavim. Towards the end of the daf we arrive at the next mishnah, about foods from ovday kokhavim that Jews are ALLOWED to eat. Enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.39a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud 00:00 Intro01:06 A bunch of non Jewish foods43:26 Non Jewish foods that Jews can eat
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 38Episode 2030Bishul akum. That is the focus of today's daf. The prohibition against consuming foods cooked by non Jews. We will discuss which foods bishul akum applies to. We will also discuss how a Jew can contribute to the cooking so as to be compliant with bishul akum. And then we will discuss a bunch of random bishul akum scenarios.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.38a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud 00:00 Intro11:15 The foods to which bishul akum applies23:50 Barbecued grasshoppers 32:32 How to be compliant with bishul akum45:321 Random bishul akum scenarios
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 37Episode 2029Rabbi Yehudah Nesiah was going to permit also the bread of non Jews. However, he was concerned for his reputation—that he would be known as being overly permissive, since he had already permitted the oil of non Jews. This was supported by the fact that Rabbi Yose of Tzereda had gained a repuation for being overly permissive, when he had permitted too many Rabbinic decrees. Most of daf 37 discusses decress that were permitted by both Rabbi Yehudah Nesiah, as well as Rabbie Yose of Tzereda.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.37a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud 00:00 Intro01:30 Permitting the bread of non Jews09:34 No divorce after death28:12 Grasshoppers34:15 Purity of liquids in the Temple38:50 Corpse tumah
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 36Episode 2028Some very interesting topics on today's daf. First, we discuss the prohibition against consuming the oil of non-Jews, and the revocation of that prohibition. Which leads to a discussion around the scenarios in which a enactment of the rabbis can be revoked. Also discussed, is the rabbinic enactment of yichud with non-Jewish women as a safeguard against idolatry. A very interesting daf. Enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.36a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LMbsU3a5f4Y3b61DxFRsqf#dafyomi #talmud 00:00 Intro01:43 The source of the oil prohibition26:53 Permitting rabbinic decress30:42 The Rabbinic decree about the daughters of non Jews
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 35Episode 2027Daf 35 begins with discussions about the cheese of non-Jews. Specifically, why did the Rabbis prohibit Jews from consuming cheese from non-Jews. We then move on to discuss consuming milk milked by non-Jews as well as bread baked by non-Jews. Along the way we'll see some very interesting opinions of tosfos on these topics. Enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.35a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/babble_on_talmudFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Babble-on-Talmud-100080258961218/#dafyomi #talmud 00:00 Intro02:17 Rennet19:56 Cheese50:32 Chalav Israel62:45 Pas Israel
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 33Episode 2025Today we examine different types of containers used for storing wine, specifically containers made from hide and from earthenware. Under what circumstances are they permitted for use and under what circumstances are they forbidden? We also discuss how containers that are forbidden for use can be made permitted for use. Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.33a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com00:00 Intro02:36 Leather flasks15:30 Cleansing leather (and earthenware) flasks20:30 Earthenware flasks39:07 Glazed ceramic
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 32Episode 2024On daf 32 we move on to the next items from the mishna, beginning with Hadrianic pottery, which absorbed wine and was used by Roman soldiers to store wine as shards of pottery that would be soaked in water to release their wine. We then continue on to hides from animals that have had their hearts ripped out of them while still alive, meat on its way in/out to/from avodah zarah and, finally, people on their way to pagan festivals and fairs. Lots of fun stuff on daf 32 of masechta Avodah Zarah!Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.32a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com00:00 Intro01:30 Hadrianic pottery04:57 Rotzeh b'kyoomo al yiday davar aher22:15 Hides from animals that have had their hearts ripped out29:00 Avodah zarah meat33:10 Pagan festivals36:53 Pagan fairs
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 30Episode 2022Daf 30 introduces the concept of yayin mevushal: cooked wine, and how it fits in to the discussion around wine belonging to pagans. Also discussed, is the concept of exposed liquids, where there is concern that the liquids may have been contaminated by snake venom...
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 29Episode 2021Daf 29 of masechta Avodah Zarah wraps up the discussion on talmudic maladies, before proceeding to discuss giving and receiving haircuts from pagans. Following that discussion, we get to a new mishna where the concept of yayn nesech begins to emerge.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.29a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com00:00 Intro01:58 Wrapping up talmudic remedies11:10 Giving & getting haircuts with pagans20:24 Yayn nesech32:15 Stam yaynum
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 28Episode 2020Today's daf mostly talks about ancient remedies to maladies. These remedies are unfamiliar to me. I reckon they may have been popular at some point.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.28a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com00:00 Intro01:35 Pagan doctors for injuries that override the Sabbath08:32 Tooth maladies27:58 Anal maladies31:56 Ear maladies38:30 Ear maladies
Daf Yomi Avodah Zarah 27Episode 2019The first part of our daf today closes the discussion we began yesterday on the topic of who is kosher to perform a brit milah. After that discussion is wrapped up, we move on to a new mishnah which launches us into a discussion about receiving medical treatment from a pagan. Relatively interesting stuff. I hope you enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.24a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com00:00 Intro01:54 Who is permitted to perform brit milah15:01 Receiving treatment from a pagan doctor27:38 Receving treatment from a "min" doctor37:18 Yayharayg v'al yaavor
There is an interesting discussion related to birth and nursing babies, as relates to pagans. Can a Jew assist a pagan in childbirth? What about vice-versa? Can a Jew nurse a pagan baby? What about vice-versa? Lots of interesting discussions on this daf. Enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.24a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Dama ben Nesina was approached by the Jews to provide precious stones for the apron of the High Priest. Dama declined since the key to the safe was beneath his fathers pillow and his father was resting. The gemara discusses the signficance of this tale. The gemara then proceeds to wrap up the discussion around Rabbi Eliezer's opinion prohibiting the purchase of a red heifer from pagans (or possibly non-Jews).Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.24a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
We're going to see two more solutions to the question we raised yesterday: essentially, are we or are we not concerned that pagans will behave inappropriately with animals?Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.23a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
We're finishing up the first perek of masechta Avodah Zarah. The first perek ends with the question of if a Jew and non-Jew jointly own a field, how do they navigate scenarios where the Jew cannot be working the field, like on Shabbat? The second perek begins with a discussion about animals and people having alone time with idolaters. Hope you enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.22a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 21 of masechta Avodah Zarah talks about selling property to non-Jews. Both in and outside of Israel. The disputed territory of Surya is also discussed.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.21a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
On daf 20 of mesechta Avodah Zarah, we learn a mishnah that quotes an argument between the tanna kamma and Rabbi Yehuda about selling things that grow from the ground to pagans. Along the way there is a discussion about whether gifts may be given to idolators. And, also, Rabbi Pinchas ben Yair's famous beraisa that forms the basis for Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzatto's classic book, Messilat Yesharim. Enjoy!Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.20a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
On daf 19 of masechta Avodah Zarah, there is a bunch of discussion about the optimal approaches for Torah study, as well as the importance of Torah study. The daf wraps up with a discussion about whether it is permitted to receive payment for building avodah zarah and/or their altars.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.18a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 18 of masechta Avodah Zarah contains stories about Rabbi Chanina ben Teradyon and his son in law, Rabbi Meir. It tells of the tragic killing of Rabbi Chanina ben Teradyon, along with his with wife. And the forced prostitution of one of his daughts. Rabbi Meir miraculously releases her using a cryptic phrase for salvation: Eloha d'Meir aneini.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.18a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 17 of masechta Avodah Zarah tells several important and somewhat well known stories. The first, is the story of when Rabbi Eliezer was arrested by heretics for the capitol offense of studying the holy Torah. Wel also learn of the story of Rabbie Elazar ben Dordaya who repented at the last moment and was admitted to the world to come. The daf ends off with the story of Rabbis Chanina ben Teradyon and Elazar ben Perata, who were arrested by the Romans for studying Torah (among other offenses). Very interesting daf here on Babble on Talmud. Enjoy.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.17a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
On daf 16 of masechta Avodah Zarah, we wrap up our discussion on selling domesticated animals to pagans, and move on to discuss selling undomesticated animals to pagans. Exciting times here at Babble on Talmud...Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.16a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 15 of Avodah Zarah discusses which kinds of animals can—and can't—be sold to pagans. And why... Join us!Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.15a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 14 of Avodah Zarah talks about things you're not allowed to sell to pagans. With a particular focus on white chickens
Daf 13 of Avodah Zarah discusses in what circumstances it is permitted—and forbidden—to buy things from pagans during their festivals.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.13a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 12 of Avodah Zarah discusses some (Facebook) meta details relating to pagan festivals. For example, do the business restrictions apply to nearby cities? Also, can you travel to a city that is celebrating a pagan festival if you just want to chat with someone there about something? Daf 12 of Avodah Zarah also discusses (Facebook) meta questions relating to serving avodah zarah, like avoiding bending down to pick up something in front of an idol, to avoid making it look like you may be bowing down to it. And other exciting things on daf 12 of masechta Avodah Zarah. Enjoy!Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.12a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 11 of Avodah Zarah wraps up the discussion about the relationship between Antoninus and Rebbe. We then move on to discuss the pagan festival that takes place to commemorate the death of their king, and other assorted pagan festivals.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.11a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
Daf 10 of Avodah Zarah continues discussing the dating of documents from the beginning of the Greek rule. Also, discussed is the pagan festival that is celebrated to mark the day that the king assumes power. As part of that discussion, we learn about the relationship between the Roman emperor Antoninus and Rebbe.Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Avodah_Zarah.10a?lang=heEmail: sruli@babbleontalmud.com
In this moving conversation, we explore the book of Numbers through the lens of a short journey to a promised land that suddenly went awry, in search of emotional guidance in the face of a war that has continued for longer than the Israeli public anticipated. What does the book of Bamidbar have to tell us about daily life in the face of fear? Why does living in proximity to God feel so scary sometimes? What was the greatest strength of the wilderness generation? This episode is dedicated in memory of Maj. (res.) Eliav Abitbol, a childhood neighbor of our guest who fell in Lebanon on Oct. 26th, 2024 and is survived by his wife, Tal, and their four children. Rachel Sharansky Danziger is a Jerusalem-based writer and educator, who lectures internationally about the intersections between Jewish texts, life in Israel, and the art of storytelling. In addition to teaching torah at Matan, Pardes and other, online, venues, Rachel is the co-editor of the recently published anthologies of prayers "Az Nashir: We Will Sing Again - Women's Prayers for Our Time of Need" and "Az Nashir: Between Silence & Song -- Women's Prayers for Our Days of Remembrance & Celebration" and is currently working on a book about family stories in the Book of Judges as a Sefaria fellow. This is a special podcast miniseries produced by Matan and hosted by Dr. Yosefa Fogel Wruble which will drop each week of the Omer counting between the holidays of Pesach and Shavuot. In each episode, a Bible scholar explores an iconic biblical text in light of the changing Israeli, Jewish, and world realities.
Welcome back to Just For This. Each week, host Rabbi Liz P.G. Hirsch (she/her) interviews women in leadership about women and leadership. Inspired by the story of Esther, we feature powerful stories of women who stand out in their fields, who have stepped up just for this moment. Our guest this week is Rabbi Hara Person, Chief Executive of Central Conference of American Rabbis, the center for lifelong rabbinic learning, professional development, and resources for more than 2,200 rabbis around the world. We discuss the transformative power of women's voices in Torah commentary and Jewish leadership and explore the groundbreaking impact of The Torah: A Women's Commentary, now available for digital use via Sefaria. We also discuss the current U.S. election to the World Zionist Congress; both Rabbi Hirsch and Rabbi Person are members of the Vote Reform slate. Visit www.zionistelection.org to vote or www.vote4reform.org to learn more about the importance of standing up for our Reform values in Israel. View the transcript here. Follow Just For This on instagram: @justforthispodcast
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