Popular Shows by Mordechai Dinerman

1

What An Honor! The History and Evolution of the Sandek and Kvatter

Oct 14, 2026

1:13:35

How and when did the bris take the shape we recognize today? When did the sandek and kvatter enter the ceremony, and what do those words even mean? Today’s class traces the development of the bris in Ashkenaz between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries. We’ll explore the origins and context of its specialized terms, the deals people made to secure coveted honors, a controversial practice that the Maharam of Rothenburg protested for years without success, and the role women played in the ceremony. Along the way, we’ll examine a panel painted around 1300 that brings at least one version of the medieval bris into sharper focus. Click here for the handout What An Honor! The History and Evolution of the Sandek and Kvatter

2

Rabbinic Police Powers, Love and Hate, and Stern Censorship: Insights from Newly Discovered Passages of the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch

Mar 9, 2022

56:02

The Czarist regime forbade rabbinical courts from employing coercive measures and adopted policies to promote assimilation. This led to the censoring of Jewish texts, and a recent discovery has shown that this also affected the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch. Rabbinic Police Powers, Love and Hate, and Stern Censorship: Insights from Newly Discovered Passages of the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch

3

The Rabbi-Doctor Who Wrote a Sefer on the Beis Hamikdash with Both Hands Tied Behind His Back

Jul 16, 2026

1:04:54

In 1612, Avraham Portaleone of Mantua published a landmark work of encyclopedic proportions covering all things Beis Hamikdash. Reading through four of his discussions, we meet a man working under far-from-ideal conditions. His sefer turns out to be part of a larger story about the struggles of Jewish printing and book possession in sixteenth- and seventeenth-century Italy. The Rabbi-Doctor Who Wrote a Sefer on the Beis Hamikdash with Both Hands Tied Behind His Back

4

HaRav Levi Yitzchak, In His Own Words: A Commemorative Study

Aug 4, 2026

1:00:05

HaRav Levi Yitzchak Schneerson spent his final years in exile in Kazakhstan, banished there by the Soviets for his work strengthening Jewish life across the Soviet Union. Soon after arriving there in 1940, he wrote a brief account of his imprisonment. It reads like no ordinary memoir: each line is a kabbalistic commentary on his own life, shaped by a deep belief in personal divine providence. Gathering to honor his yahrzeit on the twentieth of Av, we studied this account and worked to unpack its esoteric terms. It isn’t the easiest material to understand, but it does paint a vivid picture of this special leader and his worldview. Click here to follow along in the original Reshima HaRav Levi Yitzchak, In His Own Words: A Commemorative Study

5

A Blast From the Past: The Shabbos Shofar Showdown in the Early 1900s (Part II)

Sep 9, 2026

1:08:28

Today we pick up where we left off: it's just before Rosh Hashanah 1904, and Rabbi Akiva Yosef Shlesinger's plan to sound the shofar on Shabbos looks promising. Today we find out what actually happened that Rosh Hashanah and why, and how the conversation carried on through the following year, up to Rosh Hashanah 1905, which was also on Shabbos. And finally, we’ll reach the last scene of the story: the conversation leading up to Rosh Hashanah 1908. As we go, we'll see how the balance of Rabbi Shlesinger's reasoning shifted, and we’ll also examine how some of his colleagues answered him on his own terms. Click here for the handout A Blast From the Past: The Shabbos Shofar Showdown in the Early 1900s (Part II)

6

Nauseous or Not? Depends on Whether You’re in France or Spain

Oct 21, 2026

1:11:59

A dangerously ill person needs to eat chicken on Shabbos, and nonkosher is available. Do you feed him the nonkosher chicken, or slaughter one properly and violate Shabbos? The Raavad’s answer survives in conflicting versions, and the Ramban left a blank space when reaching this topic. We’ll discuss how that happened, then follow the debate across two centuries. We’ll find that in France and Germany, the rishonim gave a reason the Spanish rabbis dismissed. That gap likely reveals how differently these communities felt about their gentile neighbors and their place in those societies. Click here for the handout Nauseous or Not? Depends on Whether You’re in France or Spain

7

Secrets of a Chozer: An Interview with Rabbi Simon Jacobson

Jan 30, 2023

2:36:02

(0:38) – General Introduction (3:08) – Rabbi Jacobson’s introduction about תורת חב"ד (7:36) – Introduction about himself (18:41) – How he got started in חזרה (21:31) – Getting more involved in תשל"ח as Reb Yoiel’s sidekick (25:34) – Becoming an official מניח in winter תשל"ח (26:27) – First הנחה (28:12) – The nightmare of מקץ תש"מ (35:23) – How הגהה worked (37:01) – How to tell if a random page is מוגה (40:31) – Sichos that were difficult to remember/understand (43:06) – The difficulty of the pre-הקפות farbrengen (45:08) – Why they didn’t divide the task of remembering (45:49) – His role in מאמרים (46:56) – Keys to memory (51:43) – Making a mental map; numbering ideas (54:03) – Demonstrating samples (58:23) – A sharp מענה to a complicated question (1:01:43) – How he took the sharp מענות (1:03:33) – Edits to באתי לגני תש"מ, and the mysterious cutting of the page (1:08:18) – The Rebbe’s כתי"ק about radio (1:14:06) – Did you ever get a galley back from the Rebbe without any corrections? (1:15:03) – Cases when the Rebbe wrote מבהיל (1:23:48) – Working relationship with Reb Yoel (1:26:23) – Defying others to ask the Rebbe a personal question—and it paid off – Yiddish, Hebrew, and other languages – Adapting the spoken word to the written word – Transitioning to a computer in the mid-1980s – The Rebbe choosing fonts – Identifying sources – Sources that have not been found – The struggle and adrenaline rush to keep up with the Rebbe – The science and history of השמטות – When the Rebbe said that certain things should not be printed – Overview of ש"פ פנחס תשמ"ה – Overview of ליל שמח"ת תשמ"ז – The value of the בלתי מוגה even when there’s מוגה – About באתי לגני תשכ"ג Secrets of a Chozer: An Interview with Rabbi Simon Jacobson In honor of shnas hakhel, Unzer-Chadash Shul hosted Rabbi Simon Jacobson and had the opportunity to ask him about his work of remembering, transcribing, and publishing the Rebbe’s sichos. Posted in honor of Yud Shvat.

8

The Halachic Status of Christianity: Insights from Newly Discovered Passages of the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch

Mar 9, 2022

1:02:44

For centuries, Halachic authorities have debated how to designate Christian theological beliefs. In recent weeks, a new manuscript of the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch has surfaced, providing us with an important new voice in this conversation. The Halachic Status of Christianity: Insights from Newly Discovered Passages of the Alter Rebbe’s Shulchan Aruch

9

A Jewish Guide to Demons and Spirits

Apr 27, 2022

59:35

Do demons exist? Did they ever exist? Is adultery with a demon considered adultery? (Yes, poskim addressed that question.) Jewish sources are not of one voice on this topic. A Jewish Guide to Demons and Spirits

10

Overturning Roe v. Wade: Good for the Jews?

May 11, 2022

1:14:57

A leaked draft suggests that the highest court of the land is primed to overturn one of the most controversial cases in American history. It’s time to revisit what Halachah has to say on the topic of abortion and the beginning of life. Overturning Roe v. Wade: Good for the Jews?

11

The Cairo Genizah: Shedding Light on the Life and Works of the Rambam

May 18, 2022

56:21

The Cairo Geniza unveils much about Rambam’s communal activism, teaching, authorship, lost works, and overall life. The Cairo Genizah: Shedding Light on the Life and Works of the Rambam

12

Mishneh Torah: A Biography

May 22, 2022

1:09:19

We can document how the Mishneh Torah was drafted, finalized, updated, disseminated, illuminated, critiqued, printed, and censored. Mishneh Torah: A Biography

13

The Rebbe’s Reshimas Hamenorah: An Overview

Jun 12, 2022

1:00:04

Rabbi Elazar and Rabbi Yehudah (Rebbi) debated how the furniture in the Beis Hamikdash was situated, and this reflected their philosophies about life. The Rebbe’s Reshimas Hamenorah: An Overview

14

The Lion and the Snake: Tensions Over Artistic Expression in the Medieval Sanctuary

May 17, 2023

1:00:11

Step back in time as we delve into a fascinating story about the Jewish communities of Cologne and Mayence around the period of the First Crusade. We will learn of an uproar caused by an extension to a synagogue adorned with imagery of lions and snakes. We will examine the halachic discussion of whether this violated the command against graven images. The Lion and the Snake: Tensions Over Artistic Expression in the Medieval Sanctuary

15

Troubling Tales: The Rebbe’s Approach to Controversial Stories

Aug 31, 2023

1:00:10

The Lubavitcher Rebbe raised an interesting question on the renowned tale of Rabbi Amnon and Unesaneh Tokef. We’ll show that this comment was just the tip of the iceberg as we delve into the Rebbe’s reaction to ten distinct stories that raised halachic or ethical concerns. Stories mirror cherished values and shape communal norms, underscoring the significance of this exploration. Troubling Tales: The Rebbe’s Approach to Controversial Stories

16

The Scandalous History of Aleinu

Dec 19, 2023

1:06:18

When we examine medieval manuscripts that feature Aleinu, we uncover intriguing instances of censorship within this ancient prayer. What motivated these textual alterations, and can they be linked to a specific historical event? Delving into this subject unveils a significant episode from the year 1390, shedding light on the numerous amendments and erasures made to the text. These changes continue to influence various minhagim to the present day. Relevant links: Michael Machzor https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/b3f2d1d5-ff07-4a6e-87ea-281c41957925/surfaces/2df6a671-c677-4e7d-a5df-e722f28f4c60/# Esslingen Machzor https://digitalcollections.jtsa.edu/islandora/object/jts%3A2173#page/43/mode/1up Tripartite Machzor https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/9e481d9a-06e6-41e8-ae36-a58d445a1ffa/surfaces/f6ca5ba3-7c09-4b1f-a288-3d3c052e65e9/# Machzor from the Rhineland https://bibliophilly.library.upenn.edu/viewer.php?id=CAJS%20Rar%20Ms%20382#page/489/mode/1up Worms Machzor https://www.nli.org.il/he/manuscripts/NNL ALEPH000044560/NLI?volumeItem=2#$FL21059450 The Scandalous History of Aleinu - New Episode

17

The Marranos’ Secret Pesach

Apr 2, 2025

1:11:27

Sometime in the mid-1400s, Rabbi Shlomo Duran of Algiers penned a remarkable teshuvah directed at a group of conversos in Spain. These individuals, who had been forced to embrace Christianity since the 1391 persecutions, had managed to maintain their Jewish faith in secrecy. Their question centered on how they could refrain from the worst forms of chametz on Pesach without drawing the suspicion of the authorities—an endeavor fraught with challenges. This teshuvah touches on many halachic elements regarding chametz and reveals the Marranos' historical struggles in mid-fifteenth-century Spain. The Marranos’ Secret Pesach

18

Up High or Down Low? The Battle Over the Proper Trop for the Aseres Hadibros

May 28, 2025

1:13:41

In 1725, Rabbi Zalman Hena published Shaarei Tefilah and sparked controversy by calling for a complete stop to the use of taam ha’elyon—the unique system of trop traditionally used for reading the Aseres Hadibros. Rabbi Yaakov Emden wasn’t having it and fired back forcefully in his Luach Eresh. This class unpacks their debate, the sources they cite, the Alter Rebbe’s position, and what we know about the two competing systems of trop for reliving Matan Torah. Up High or Down Low? The Battle Over the Proper Trop for the Aseres Hadibros

19

The Draft Dilemma: The Chilling Reality of Jews Deciding Who Gets Drafted

Jul 4, 2025

1:19:35

What do you do when the government demands soldiers and says you have to choose who goes? That’s exactly what Jewish communities in the late 1700s faced when the Austrian-Hungarian Empire started drafting Jews into the army. In this class, we look at how the rabbanim responded to this impossible situation and uncover the moral struggle beneath their rulings. The Draft Dilemma: The Chilling Reality of Jews Deciding Who Gets Drafted

20

The Controversial History of Mechiras Chametz

Mar 26, 2026

1:10:16

Mechiras chametz is today a standard part of observing Pesach. But how did this practice come to be, and how has it evolved over the centuries? In this class, we analyze the relevant sources in Ashkenazic and Sefardic texts, revealing two distinct approaches to this topic. We’ll then find how the more the sale was refined to accommodate the seller, the more complications it introduced, requiring a series of complex adjustments and, eventually, triggering voices of opposition. All along, we’ll wrestle with a central issue—drawing the line between legal creativity and legal fiction. The Controversial History of Mechiras Chametz

21

The First Crusade: The 1096 Massacres and the Rituals They Created

May 6, 2026

1:06:42

In the spring of 1096, crusading armies swept through the Jewish communities of the Rhineland, leaving devastation in their wake. This class traces how those events gave rise to rituals of memory. In the community of Worms, fast days were proclaimed on the 23rd of Iyar and Rosh Chodesh Sivan, accompanied by elaborate mourning customs. We’ll see how in 1716, when Rosh Chodesh Sivan fell on a Friday, rabbinic authorities clashed over davening Maariv early that afternoon. We conclude by tracing the demise of these fast days while noting how other rituals, such as the recitation of Av HaRachamim, have endured to this day. The First Crusade: The 1096 Massacres and the Rituals They Created

22

Is the Dome of the Rock Where the Mikdash Stood?

Jun 4, 2026

1:14:25

Whether Jews may enter Har Habayis largely depends on whether we know where the Beis Hamikdash stood. A common assumption is that we don’t know for sure, but that assumption has a history. This class traces the story of this uncertainty, primarily through the accounts of Jewish travelers who visited Eretz Yisrael and recorded what they saw and heard. This is the third installment in a series about going up onto Har Habayis. Is the Dome of the Rock Where the Mikdash Stood?

23

Purim Class - The Manos Halevi by Rabbi Shlomo Alkabetz: Overview and Highlights

Mar 13, 2022

57:45

One of the most important commentaries on Megilas Esther was authored by Rabbi Shlomo Halevi Alkabetz (d. 1576), the famed author of Lecha Dodi. We explore eight memorable teachings from Manos Halevi and examine how they are cited and explained in Chabad sources. Purim Class - The Manos Halevi by Rabbi Shlomo Alkabetz: Overview and Highlights

24

Purim Through the Lens of Historic Jewish Art

Mar 16, 2022

1:11:13

The Jews throughout the ages who employed art to depict the Purim story left us a legacy rife with messaging. Synagogue walls, biblical manuscripts, and medieval machzorim can teach us a lot about what Purim used to mean and what it can still mean today. Purim Through the Lens of Historic Jewish Art

25

Kosher Pig? Analyzing a Mysterious Midrash (Part 1)

Mar 20, 2022

59:47

There’s a well-known tradition that it will be permissible for Jews to consume the meat of a pig when Moshiach comes. What is the source for this teaching and what is its logic? Can there ever be a time when mitzvos are suspended? There are multiple approaches to these questions. Kosher Pig? Analyzing a Mysterious Midrash (Part 1)

26

The Letter and Spirit of the Law vis-a-vis Imitation Products

Mar 23, 2022

57:40

Is it appropriate for a Jew to eat kosher imitation bacon, crab, or shrimp? Is this undermining the spirit of Kashrus? Central to the contemporary discussion is a fascinating Talmudic passage about a conversation between Yalta and Rav Nachman, which deserves analysis and exploration. The Letter and Spirit of the Law vis-a-vis Imitation Products

27

Kosher Pig? Analyzing a Mysterious Midrash (Part 2)

Mar 27, 2022

50:59

Continuing to explore whether there can ever be a time when mitzvos are suspended, and how this relates to the mysterious teaching that the pig will one day become kosher. Kosher Pig? Analyzing a Mysterious Midrash (Part 2)

28

Evolution of the Haggadah: A Pictorial History, from the Cairo Genizah, to the Medieval Art Workshop, to the Modern Printing Press

Mar 30, 2022

1:01:09

The Story of the Haggadah is synonymous with the story of the Jewish people. Observe how this most famous Jewish liturgical work has evolved in its appearance from one generation to the next. Yes, things do change, but they also stay the same. Evolution of the Haggadah: A Pictorial History, from the Cairo Genizah, to the Medieval Art Workshop, to the Modern Printing Press

29

Finders Keepers? Halachic Implications From Tzaraas In the Home

Apr 3, 2022

56:38

Every so often we hear of someone who is blessed with a true windfall. In such instances, we often find multiple parties claiming a stake in the bonanza. How do we determine ownership when there are conflicting claims to life’s valued surprises? Finders Keepers? Halachic Implications From Tzaraas In the Home

30

The Old, the New, the Forgotten: Halachah and Minhag In Haggadah Art

Apr 6, 2022

58:47

Medieval illuminated Haggadahs shed light on how the observance of the past was both similar to and different from the present. Taking this journey is an excellent way to review some of the laws and customs of Pesach. The Old, the New, the Forgotten: Halachah and Minhag In Haggadah Art

31

The Blood Libel and Talmudic Censorship

Apr 10, 2022

58:30

Since ancient times, Jews have been falsely accused of killing non-Jews for ritual purposes. In medieval Europe, beginning in the twelfth century, this was often accompanied by accusations that Jews used their victims’ blood to bake matzah for the Jewish holiday of Passover. This ridiculous but deadly lie would eventually lead to subtle Talmudic Censorship. The Blood Libel and Talmudic Censorship

32

Dominating Wives, Suffering, and Reincarnation: The Debate About Gilgul and It’s Connection to Pesach

Apr 13, 2022

1:00:01

While the kabbalists embraced the concept of reincarnation, other rabbis were skeptical. What lies at the root of this dispute? And how did the kabbalists address the various challenges raised about this doctrine? Dominating Wives, Suffering, and Reincarnation: The Debate About Gilgul and It’s Connection to Pesach

33

Blatant Disregard of a Torah Law? On the Prohibition Against Settling in Egypt

Apr 18, 2022

1:01:32

Some of the greatest Torah sages lived in Egypt even as the Talmud ruled that this was forbidden. Over the years, numerous justifications have been provided. Which will resonate with you? Blatant Disregard of a Torah Law? On the Prohibition Against Settling in Egypt

34

A Jewish Guide to Horoscopes and Astrology (Part 1)

May 1, 2022

58:21

Continuing our series of classes on Judaism and the paranormal, this class begins a three-part deep dive into the topic of astrology. As with all of these mysterious topics, two divergent pathways emerge. A Jewish Guide to Horoscopes and Astrology (Part 1)

35

A Jewish Guide to the Evil Eye

May 4, 2022

1:06:07

The background and origins of red strings, kinora, and “poo-poo”; Rambam’s position on the matter; and two models for how Jews understood this mysterious phenomenon. A Jewish Guide to the Evil Eye

36

A Jewish Guide to Horoscopes and Astrology (Part 2)

May 8, 2022

42:09

Continuing to explore astrology from a Jewish perspective. What are the theological problems with accepting astrology and how did the rabbis address this? We will discover a range of opinions about how easy or difficult it is to subvert an astrological outcome. A Jewish Guide to Horoscopes and Astrology (Part 2)

37

A Jewish Guide to Horoscopes and Astrology (Part 3)

May 15, 2022

59:06

The final class of the series, in which we introduce Rambam’s position, Chasidic sources, and wrap up the topic with the key takeaways. A Jewish Guide to Horoscopes and Astrology (Part 3)

38

Explaining the Holocaust? Multiple Approaches by the Frierdiker Rebbe and Rebbe

May 25, 2022

1:06:31

Many assume that "explaining" and "Holocaust" are never to be seen in the same sentence. How did we get here? And was it always this way? Explaining the Holocaust? Multiple Approaches by the Frierdiker Rebbe and Rebbe

39

Shavuos Through the Lens of Historic Jewish Art

May 29, 2022

1:08:25

Why animal heads replace human heads; why the luchos morph into a Torah scroll; and the origins of the areinfirenish and dairy on Shavuos. Shavuos Through the Lens of Historic Jewish Art

40

Shavuos Art, and the Strange History of Akdamus

Jun 1, 2022

1:14:47

By examining the liturgy and art in a tiny medieval machzor, we learn how hearing the Aseres Hadibros was experienced seven hundred years ago, and how it's both similar and different today. Shavuos Art, and the Strange History of Akdamus

41

Spelling Hashem’s Name in Hebrew Manuscripts

Jun 8, 2022

1:02:52

We are used to seeing two Yudin as a substitute for G-d’s ineffable name. But it wasn’t always that way. Spelling Hashem’s Name in Hebrew Manuscripts

42

Remembering and Forgetting: The History of Chof Sivan

Jun 15, 2022

1:00:01

This day has a sad history of persecution, but also an interesting tendency to be taken seriously at first, only to peter out after some time. Remembering and Forgetting: The History of Chof Sivan

43

The Curious Case of the Desert Dead

Jun 19, 2022

57:43

The Talmud famously recounts how one of its sages discovered the “dead of the desert.” Drawing on a range of sources, the Rebbe explained this Talmudic tale with symbolic depth and personal relevance. The Curious Case of the Desert Dead

44

The Scandal of the Missing Line: Allegations of Textual Corruption against Chabad

Jun 22, 2022

1:05:36

The Tzemach Tzedek wrote about the proper brachah to make on a talis katan, but some have alleged that we tampered with his text. The Scandal of the Missing Line: Allegations of Textual Corruption against Chabad

45

Who Wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls? A Talmudic Approach

Jun 26, 2022

56:36

The first of a three-part series analyzing how the Dead Sea Scrolls can deepen our understanding of the Mishnah and Talmud. Who Wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls? A Talmudic Approach

46

Gun Control: Talmudic Perspectives

Jun 29, 2022

1:01:54

The Supreme Court recently issued a landmark decision regarding the “right to bear arms.” What does Halachah offer on this topic? Gun Control: Talmudic Perspectives

47

The Dead Sea Scrolls (Part 2): An Alternative Jewish Calendar

Jul 3, 2022

55:49

The Dead Sea Scrolls present a sectarian system for measuring time and celebrating the festivals, and it may help us understand an enigmatic line in our Mishnah. The Dead Sea Scrolls (Part 2): An Alternative Jewish Calendar

48

Paris 1240: Disputation and Devastation

Jul 6, 2022

1:04:02

Rabbi Yechiel of Paris was forced to defend the Gemara before a Christian tribunal. Despite his courageous efforts, the Talmud was condemned to the flames. Paris 1240: Disputation and Devastation

49

The Dead Sea Scrolls (Part 3): The Philosophical Dispute

Jul 10, 2022

1:02:26

The abundance of name calling in some of the Dead Sea Scrolls exposes diverging worldviews about how halachic interpretation should operate. The Dead Sea Scrolls (Part 3): The Philosophical Dispute

50

Predicting the Redemption: What About the Talmudic Prohibition?

Jul 12, 2022

1:00:58

The Talmud tells us to refrain from predicting when Moshiach will come, and Rambam affirms this ruling in his code of law. But Rambam himself, and so many other rabbinic sages, issued messianic predictions. Why? Predicting the Redemption: What About the Talmudic Prohibition?

51

The Day After: Reacting to Moshiach’s Not Coming in Chabad History

Jul 20, 2022

59:34

How have Jewish sages responded when a predicted Messianic time didn’t materialize? Here we focus on this phenomenon within Chabad history. The Day After: Reacting to Moshiach’s Not Coming in Chabad History

52

Does Israel Amount to (the Beginnings of) Kibutz Goliyos?

Jul 24, 2022

1:07:27

The Rebbe Rashab addressed this issue when confronted with Zionism, and the Rebbe did the same a few decades later after the State of Israel was established. Does Israel Amount to (the Beginnings of) Kibutz Goliyos?

53

The Mekashya Mystery

Jul 27, 2022

1:01:17

Tunisian Jews used to refer to Tanach as Mekashya, but few understood why. Fortunately, illuminated medieval Jewish manuscripts can help solve this mystery, revealing a unique perspective on the study of Tanach. The Mekashya Mystery

54

The Barcelona Disputation: Was Moshiach Born on Tisha B’Av?

Aug 3, 2022

1:06:41

At two medieval disputations, a famous Midrash was invoked to argue that Moshiach had already come. The rabbinic approaches to this Midrash unveil different approaches to Talmudic Aggadah. The Barcelona Disputation: Was Moshiach Born on Tisha B’Av?

55

The Rebbe Rashab, Zionism, and Expediting the End

Aug 10, 2022

1:02:18

The Rebbe Rashab invoked “dechikas haketz” as one reason to be against Zionism. What are the contours of this prohibition? Does it still apply? The Rebbe Rashab, Zionism, and Expediting the End

56

The Cracow Couple and Rama's Remarkable Responsum

Aug 31, 2022

1:03:29

A controversial wedding ceremony ca. 1550 sheds important light on the inner rabbinic process, the history of Jewish marriage, and the limits of rabbinic law. The Cracow Couple and Rama's Remarkable Responsum

57

Buried Alive: The 18th-Century Halachic Debate

Sep 7, 2022

1:03:12

In 1772, the Duke of Mecklenburg decreed that Jews could not bury their dead until three days after death. The Jewish community faced difficult questions about the mitzvah of burial. Buried Alive: The 18th-Century Halachic Debate

58

The Battle Over Machnisei Rachamim (Part 1)

Sep 14, 2022

52:59

It’s a beloved piece of liturgy, recited as we begin the new year. But some of the greatest halachic figures waged war against it, suggesting that it expresses quasi-heretical beliefs. In Part 1 we hear the voices of the opponents, and Part 2 will examine the defense. The Battle Over Machnisei Rachamim (Part 1)

59

The Battle Over Machnisei Rachamim (Part 2)

Sep 21, 2022

55:28

In the previous episode, we witnessed some of the greatest halachic figures waging war against Machnisei Rachamim and a number of other piyutim. In Part 2, we hear the voices of the supporters. The Battle Over Machnisei Rachamim (Part 2)

60

After A Decade of Barrenness: What Actually Happens

Nov 2, 2022

1:04:38

The Talmud famously rules that a childless couple must divorce after ten years of infertility. Yet, this law has often been overlooked, a reality that goes back many centuries. This class explores how, when, and why this occurred. After A Decade of Barrenness: What Actually Happens

61

Friday Night Kiddush Between 6 and 7

Nov 9, 2022

56:56

This class traces the minhag of avoiding the recitation of the Friday night kiddush during the seventh hour after midday. When and why did this custom begin? Friday Night Kiddush Between 6 and 7

62

Is It Kosher To Elope? Marriage Without Parental Consent

Nov 16, 2022

58:46

Does the mitzvah of honoring parents imply that parents wield halachic control over their children’s marriage? Intriguingly, this question became a factor in the tensions that arose with the advent of the Chasidic movement in the eighteenth century. Is It Kosher To Elope? Marriage Without Parental Consent

63

Liturgical Warfare Among 16th-Century Italian Jews

Nov 23, 2022

1:02:38

As Italian Jews immigrated to the Ottoman Empire during the sixteenth century, many wanted to switch to the Sephardic liturgical style. The question then was whether it was permitted to abandon well-entrenched communal customs—a question that’s very much relevant today. Liturgical Warfare Among 16th-Century Italian Jews

64

The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives

Nov 30, 2022

1:02:24

Are our dreams significant? Do they have predictive value? Should we pay heed to their warnings? The Talmud seems to offer contradictory teachings on this subject, and this will lead us toward two classic approaches to this matter. The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives

65

Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square

Dec 7, 2022

56:37

We can learn about the public presence of women in a given society by examining how various rabbis understood the story of Dina. We’ll witness the difference between Ashkenazic and Sefardic commentaries, between the Tanchuma and Bereishis Rabah, and between Ashkenazic and Sefardic halachic norms. Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square

66

When A London Rabbi Was Accused of Heresy

Dec 16, 2022

57:11

In November 1703, Rabbi David Nieto delivered a controversial sermon at the Bevis Marks Synagogue in London, causing a rift in the local Jewish community. The cause of the feud may have been mundane politics, but it forced a thought-provoking rabbinic responsum about nature, G-d, deism, and pantheism. When A London Rabbi Was Accused of Heresy

67

Evolution of the Tanya: Timely Lessons from the Eighteenth-Century Battle against Chasidism

Jan 4, 2023

1:03:58

The pre-print manuscripts of Tanya shed light on what the Alter Rebbe added to this seminal text at a later stage. Curiously, three of the most notable updates involve interpersonal relationships. This lecture was recorded live by Jewish Multimedia Library, a.k.a. JML, Melbourne Australia. Many additional recordings are available from their website: www.jml.org.au. Evolution of the Tanya: Timely Lessons from the Eighteenth-Century Battle against Chasidism

68

The Nile on Trial: 16th-Century Rabbis and Aquatic Science

Jan 12, 2023

1:00:30

In 1549, the rabbinical court in Cairo held hearings and engaged in extensive research to learn about the source of the annual flooding of the Nile. The rabbis of the day found themselves on different sides of this scientific question and vehemently defended their respective positions. But why did they care? The Nile on Trial: 16th-Century Rabbis and Aquatic Science

69

Burning of the Books: The Alter Rebbe, the Gra, and the Tzimtzum Tussle

Jan 18, 2023

1:10:01

In 1796, a work of the Baal Shem Tov’s teachings was consigned to the flames. What were the specific passages in this book that some deemed objectionable? This will help us uncover the most fundamental theological difference between Chasidim and non-Chasidim at the turn of the nineteenth century. Burning of the Books: The Alter Rebbe, the Gra, and the Tzimtzum Tussle

70

Loathing Our Clothing: The Despot’s Decree and Rabbinic Response

Jan 25, 2023

1:04:41

In 1844, the Czar of Russia issued a ban on traditional Jewish clothing worn by Eastern European Jews for centuries, leaving the community with a dilemma: should they adhere to their cultural customs, or comply with the government’s decree? Loathing Our Clothing: The Despot’s Decree and Rabbinic Response

71

Dividing Tanach into Chapters: A Historical Overview

Feb 8, 2023

1:08:18

The division of Tanach into chapters didn’t originate with Jewish scholars or rabbis. This class surveys when, how, and why this became an accepted and standard Jewish division. We will also hear the voices of those who rejected this system and, on the other hand, those who embraced it. Dedicated in memory of Yaakov Koppel ben Elimelech Hakohen Dividing Tanach into Chapters: A Historical Overview

72

Debating the Death Penalty

Feb 15, 2023

1:10:58

In 1615, the Jewish community in Poland was confronted with a disturbing accusation of murder against one of its members. At the time, contemporary rabbis engaged in a dialogue on the most suitable course of action, debating whether the accused should face capital punishment. This discussion provides insight into the methods employed by rabbinic courts in addressing grave criminal offenses like murder and the criteria they applied in determining when the death penalty was a justifiable judicial response. Additionally, this analysis remains relevant today, as it prompts us to evaluate whether any of these principles and teachings have the potential to inform contemporary debates on the death penalty. Debating the Death Penalty

73

History and Development of the Talmudic Page

Feb 22, 2023

1:05:06

Join us on a journey through the rich history of Talmudic manuscripts and print editions. You will learn that although we don’t have manuscripts that can be definitively dated to before the twelfth century, a discerning eye can use extant manuscripts to hear distinct echoes of much older ones. Delve into the fascinating stories linked to the little-known Spanish and Portuguese printings that coincided with the end of Jewish life on the Iberian Peninsula and to Soncino’s controversial decision to place Tosafos on the page of the Gemara. Discover the introduction of folio numbers by Daniel Bomberg, and join us in the search for the first rabbi to utilize this revolutionary system. Finally, we’ll delve into the heartbreaking story of the burning of the Talmud in 1553 and the draconian censorship that followed, culminating in the notorious Basel edition. This lecture was recorded live by Jewish Multimedia Library, a.k.a. JML, Melbourne, Australia. Many additional recordings are available from their website: www.jml.org.au. History and Development of the Talmudic Page

74

Zecher vs. Zeicher: Unraveling the Parshas Zachor Mystery

Mar 1, 2023

1:05:03

Join us on this episode as we explore the centuries-old debate surrounding the placement of a tzeirei or segol in the reading for Parshas Zachor. Through the lens of ancient codices and special editions of Chumash, we’ll investigate the origins of this confusion and the reasons why communities began reciting both versions. We’ll also uncover the more profound significance of this divergence and what it can teach us about spiritual growth. Zecher vs. Zeicher: Unraveling the Parshas Zachor Mystery

75

The King’s Prayer: A Controversial Statement by a 19th-Century Rabbi

Mar 15, 2023

1:06:40

In today’s episode, we will step back in time to explore the controversy that erupted when a famous rabbi made a controversial statement about Dovid Hamelech and the role of Tehilim in Jewish life. We will dive into the heated discourse and the familiar fault lines it revealed within the Jewish community. We will gain insight into the differing views on the function and place of Torah study versus other forms of Jewish worship and the divergent attitudes about the image of the tzaddik in Jewish life. The King’s Prayer: A Controversial Statement by a 19th-Century Rabbi

76

Vanished Hero: Exploring the Absence of Moshe in the Haggadah

Mar 22, 2023

1:14:01

Join us for an in-depth discussion exploring the enigmatic absence of Moshe’s name from the Haggadah text. While his name does appear once in the text, this fact alone may not entirely resolve the mystery. We will scrutinize various explanations that have been presented over the past two centuries and analyze what they reveal about their proponents. Vanished Hero: Exploring the Absence of Moshe in the Haggadah

77

First Edition: The Rebbe’s References to the 1485 Soncino Haggadah

Mar 29, 2023

57:04

In his commentary on the Haggadah, the Lubavitcher Rebbe referenced many different sources from the vast library of Judaism, but three of them stand out from a bibliographic perspective: three references to the first dated printed edition of the Haggadah. Join us as we learn more about this edition, its historical context, and how the Rebbe used it to sort out some of the famous questions relating to the mah nishtanah, dayeinu, and the wisdom of the wise son. First Edition: The Rebbe’s References to the 1485 Soncino Haggadah

78

The Fate of the Marranos

Apr 19, 2023

59:15

In 1636, the Sephardic Jewish community in Amsterdam was embroiled in a heated debate over the fate of their converso relatives residing as Christians in Spain and Portugal. Would those who refuse to emigrate to reembrace Judaism be denied entry into the World to Come? In this class, we will explore the rich tapestry of sources both sides invoked during this intriguing chapter in Jewish history. We will delve into the arguments presented by both sides, gaining insights into the religious and social complexities that confronted Sephardic Jewry during this period. The Fate of the Marranos

79

Censoring Rambam’s Mishneh Torah in Czarist Russia

Apr 26, 2023

1:01:21

In 1850, an unusual edition of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah was published in czarist Russia. A perusal of this work reveals that it was censored in a peculiar and unprecedented fashion. But what lies behind this story of suppression? Who was responsible for this censorship? And what does it reveal about the tensions in Jewish life at that time? Through a nuanced analysis of the key players and their motivations, we gain a deeper understanding of the internal and external challenges faced by the Jewish community in Czarist Russia in the mid-19th century. Censoring Rambam’s Mishneh Torah in Czarist Russia

80

Rashba’s Rebuttal: Defending Judaism in Medieval Barcelona

May 3, 2023

1:04:40

Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderes (Rashba) took a maximalist position about the eternality of mitzvos, arguing that none of them could ever be suspended, not even in the era of techiyas hameism. But a faction of his rabbinic peers dissented. In this class, we examine the primary sources that are central to this discourse and also analyze the underlying dynamics—namely, the attempt at the time of Christian missionaries to undermine Judaism. This exploration will show how the greatest rabbinic minds responded to this threat and grappled with the more controversial passages of the Talmud and Midrash. Rashba’s Rebuttal: Defending Judaism in Medieval Barcelona

81

Women and the Study of Talmud

May 31, 2023

1:10:49

Over the past century, significant changes have occurred in the area of women’s Torah education, but a vibrant and ongoing debate about this subject persists. By exploring the treatment of this matter in the Talmudic sources and throughout Jewish history, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the current landscape, the factors that have shaped it, and the pathways that lie ahead. Women and the Study of Talmud

82

In the Wake of Shabtai Tzvi’s Betrayal

Jun 7, 2023

1:04:34

In the summer of 1666, Shabtai Tzvi’s conversion to Islam shattered hopes and dreams, leaving Jewish communities grappling with the aftermath of a false redeemer. One contentious issue arose in Amsterdam, where leaders debated whether to continue the performance of Birchas Kohanim each Shabbos, initiated during Shabtai’s self-proclaimed messianic era. Rabbi Yaakov Sasportas penned a series of halachic responsa on this matter, tackling the challenge of ideas proposed by flawed individuals and customs initiated by misguided beliefs. In the Wake of Shabtai Tzvi’s Betrayal

83

Remembering and Forgetting: The History of Chof Sivan | Replay

Jun 8, 2023

1:00:46

This day has a sad history of persecution, but also an interesting tendency to be taken seriously at first, only to peter out after some time. Remembering and Forgetting: The History of Chof Sivan | Replay

84

Banned and Burned: The 1232 Controversy Surrounding Rambam’s Works

Jun 21, 2023

1:08:05

In today’s episode, we turn our attention to the dispute over the Rambam’s works that took place in Europe in 1232. The controversy revolved around Rambam’s Moreh Nevuchim and Sefer Hamada, and it culminated in these works being banned and eventually burned. What was it about these works that were so controversial? What social factors led to the appalling book burning? And who was responsible for this? Some of the greatest rabbis of the day were involved in this story. By delving into their writings, we hope to disentangle fact from fiction and learn about the central themes that emerged from this dispute. Banned and Burned: The 1232 Controversy Surrounding Rambam’s Works

85

The Missing Section in the Shulchan Aruch

Jun 28, 2023

1:09:05

It’s truly astonishing: the Shulchan Aruch, the most important work of Jewish law, doesn’t codify the mitzvah of ahavas Yisrael and many of its related laws, including rechilus, lashon hara, nekamah, and others. In this class, we’ll examine the background and history that may help us come to grips with this curious omission. The Missing Section in the Shulchan Aruch

86

Techeles: A Tangled Tale

Jul 5, 2023

1:05:01

During the late 1880s, an audacious endeavor was set forth by the Radziner Rebbe, aimed at renewing the ancient legacy of techeles through his arduous quest to rediscover the elusive chilazon. However, amidst his fervor, a tide of opposition emerged. In this class, our attention turns to the objections raised by the Rebbe Rashab, carefully outlined in a letter authored in 1907, after having perused the works of the Radziner Rebbe. Techeles: A Tangled Tale

87

The Controversial Haskamah

Jul 19, 2023

1:06:44

Starting in the 1870s, a visionary Jerusalem rabbi was consumed by the idea of resurrecting the ancient mitzvah of guarding the site of the Beis Hamikdash. But his fervor was met with indifference and opposition from others, sparking a halachic debate of significant proportions. As the narrative unfolds, unexpected connections emerge, revealing the curious involvement of the Chabad rebbes in this intriguing tale. The Controversial Haskamah

88

Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts

Jul 26, 2023

1:08:55

We are all acquainted with the renowned depiction of the menorah created by the Rambam. In this class, we dig into the story of this image. Where did it come from? Can we trust its accuracy? When was it discovered? Did later artists and copyists treat it as just a doodle or something more meaningful? Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts

89

Dancing with History: The 15th of Av and Its Legacy in Renaissance Jewry

Aug 2, 2023

1:04:47

This class delves into the story of Jews during the 1500s who were drawn to the Renaissance and embraced immodest dancing. They sought justification in the ancient custom of vineyard dancing on the 15th of Av and Yom Kippur in the Land of Israel. Examining how 16th-century rabbis expressed their disapproval leads us to discuss various interpretations of the ancient vineyard dance and how rabbis grappled with this extraordinary ritual through the ages. Dancing with History: The 15th of Av and Its Legacy in Renaissance Jewry

90

The Politics of Divorce: King Henry’s Wives and the Italian Rabbis

Aug 25, 2023

1:41:38

Delve into the riveting saga of King Henry VIII’s marital turmoil as he sought to dissolve his marriage in order to marry a second queen. We’ll discover the intriguing intersection of politics, religion, and royal prerogatives as this notorious English monarch sought the counsel of Italian rabbis to help his cause while other powerful figures tried to impede them. This will lead us toward the lone surviving Hebrew letter by an Italian rabbi that was dispatched to the king and to additional arguments by contemporary Jews as conveyed by the dispatches of European diplomats. The Politics of Divorce: King Henry’s Wives and the Italian Rabbis

91

The History and Evolution of the Chabad Machzor

Sep 13, 2023

1:26:32

What is the story behind the Chabad Machzor? In the first part of this class, we find ourselves comparing two sacred machzorim. The current Chabad Machzor is open before us, focusing on the Shachris of Rosh Hashanah. Concurrently, we have images of an Ashkenazi machzor dating back to the 1200s. Our purpose is to discern the commonalities and distinctions between the two. We then attempt to learn about how the Chabad machzor developed. We show that during the nineteenth century, there were diverse perspectives within the Chabad community concerning the role of the piyyutim. Ultimately, the transformative moment in this story is the official publication of the Lubavitch Machzor in 1941. To see the images of the medieval machzor, click here: https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/268d1688-4523-4aed-962a-75f24c8cbfd0/surfaces/f381f605-74ae-4eea-8383-948ab02ff422/ To see the first print of the Alter Rebbe's siddur, click here: https://viewer.rsl.ru/ru/rsl01006554275?page=1&rotate=0&theme=white The History and Evolution of the Chabad Machzor

92

The History of Kol Nidrei

Sep 20, 2023

1:09:39

Kol Nidrei has been associated with controversy since its inception, and we’re here to delve deep into its intriguing story. We’ll unravel the criticisms it faced, the defenses it inspired, and the persistent misconceptions that have colored its long history. But that’s not all. We’ll also embark on a journey to trace the theory that links Kol Nidrei to the Marranos. The History of Kol Nidrei

93

The Puzzle of Peshat: Rashbam’s Controversial Commentary

Oct 11, 2023

57:37

In 1158, Rabbi Avraham ibn Ezra found himself disturbed by a provocative dream, which ultimately inspired him to author a treatise concerning the proper start time of the halachic day—evening. One possibility is that this work was a polemical discourse aimed at Rashbam’s Torah commentary. This prompts us to delve into the story of this commentary, examining some of the controversial passages that have sparked confusion throughout the ages. Ultimately, we emerge from this exploration with an empowering revelation: the fact that the halachic day commences at nightfall teaches us about becoming resilient in times of crisis. The Puzzle of Peshat: Rashbam’s Controversial Commentary

94

The Heartless Chicken

Oct 18, 2023

1:01:30

We examine the tale of the heartless chicken that ignited lively discussion among rabbinic authorities in the year 1709. We introduce the pivotal figures in this intriguing narrative, examine the framing of the question, analyze the diverse range of answers proposed, and learn about the captivating research endeavors undertaken by these rabbis in their quest for a definitive solution. This engaging study about the interplay between science and tradition offers unique insights into the intellectual landscape of the time. The Heartless Chicken

95

In the Dungeons of the Inquisition

Oct 25, 2023

58:41

In this episode, we explore the intriguing narrative of a Jew named Shlomo, also known as Fillipo, who found himself ensnared by the Inquisition in Venice during the 1580s. Raised as a Christian in Portugal during a period when Jews were prohibited from residing there, Shlomo’s journey took a profound turn when he embraced Judaism in Venice, a choice that carried substantial risks. His captivating story can be learned through the archives of the Venetian Inquisition but also through two rabbinic responsa. In the Dungeons of the Inquisition

96

Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square | Favorite Episodes

Nov 29, 2023

57:01

Favorite Episodes | Initially released in December 2022. We can learn about the public presence of women in a given society by examining how various rabbis understood the story of Dina. We’ll witness the difference between Ashkenazic and Sefardic commentaries, between the Tanchuma and Bereishis Rabah, and between Ashkenazic and Sefardic halachic norms. Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square

97

Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts | Favorite Episodes

Dec 6, 2023

1:09:07

Click here to view the class PowerPoint slides. Favorite Episodes | Initially released in July 2023. We are all acquainted with the renowned depiction of the menorah created by the Rambam. In this class, we dig into the story of this image. Where did it come from? Can we trust its accuracy? When was it discovered? Did later artists and copyists treat it as just a doodle or something more meaningful? Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts

98

The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives | Favorite Episodes

Dec 12, 2023

1:02:37

Favorite Episodes Are our dreams significant? Do they have predictive value? Should we pay heed to their warnings? The Talmud seems to offer contradictory teachings on this subject, and this will lead us toward two classic approaches to this matter. The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives

99

Lost Scrolls, Lost Souls: A Spanish Jew’s Plea to Rediscover Tanach | Favorite Episodes

Dec 27, 2023

1:02:10

Tunisian Jews used to refer to Tanach with a very odd name, and few understood why. Fortunately, illuminated medieval Jewish manuscripts can help solve this mystery. They bring us back to the 14th century, where we find Rabbi Yitzchak ben Moshe Halevi fervently contending that there has been a neglect of studying Tanach and that this is akin to abandoning the sacred Beis Hamikdash. Lost Scrolls, Lost Souls: A Spanish Jew’s Plea to Rediscover Tanach | Favorite Episodes

100

Scrolls, Scribes, and Shortcuts: An Incomplete Megilah in the Cairo Geniza

Mar 13, 2024

1:06:56

Today, we explore enigmatic Megilahs, where the absence of the text eclipses the written word. We’ll learn that this peculiar phenomenon is just a fragment of a larger tendency reflected in the Geniza to produce incomplete texts. We shall unravel the motivations behind this practice, reminding us of the formidable challenges in reproducing sacred texts by scribal hand. Links: First Megilah image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-AS-00044-00005/1 Second Megilah image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-NS-00286-00043/1 Third Megilah image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-NS-00286-00043/1 First Chumash image https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-A-00043-00004/2 Second Chumash image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-A-00043-00013/2 First Tehilim image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-NS-00281-00131/2 Second Tehilim image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-AS-00039-00186/2 Final Megilah Image https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-AS-00041-00207/1 Scrolls, Scribes, and Shortcuts: An Incomplete Megilah in the Cairo Geniza

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