Popular Shows by Mordechai Dinerman מרדכי דינרמן
155 episodes
#
Name
Release Date
Duration
101
Troubling Tales: The Rebbe’s Approach to Controversial Stories
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
102
The History and Evolution of the Chabad Machzor
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
103
The History of Kol Nidrei
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
104
The Puzzle of Peshat: Rashbam’s Controversial Commentary
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
105
The Heartless Chicken
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
106
In the Dungeons of the Inquisition
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
107
Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square | Favorite Episodes
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
108
Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts | Favorite Episodes
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
109
The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives | Favorite Episodes
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
110
The Scandalous History of Aleinu
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
111
Lost Scrolls, Lost Souls: A Spanish Jew’s Plea to Rediscover Tanach | Favorite Episodes
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
112
Scrolls, Scribes, and Shortcuts: An Incomplete Megilah in the Cairo Geniza
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
113
The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
Apr 7, 2024
1:01:04
In the year 1550, two non-Jewish printers published competing editions of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah. One of them partnered with an esteemed rabbi from Padua, who, in his quest for support, turned to Rabbi Moshe Isserlis. Rama’s response along with a careful examination of the printed volumes unveil the details of this dispute. Rama’s scholarly answer also sheds light on various areas of commercial Halachah as well as the Noahide laws. The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
114
The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
Apr 7, 2024
1:06:26
In the year 1550, two non-Jewish printers published competing editions of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah. One of them partnered with an esteemed rabbi from Padua, who, in his quest for support, turned to Rabbi Moshe Isserlis. Rama’s response along with a careful examination of the printed volumes unveil the details of this dispute. Rama’s scholarly answer also sheds light on various areas of commercial Halachah as well as the Noahide laws. The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
115
The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
Apr 8, 2024
1:06:26
In the year 1550, two non-Jewish printers published competing editions of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah. One of them partnered with an esteemed rabbi from Padua, who, in his quest for support, turned to Rabbi Moshe Isserlis. Rama’s response along with a careful examination of the printed volumes unveil the details of this dispute. Rama’s scholarly answer also sheds light on various areas of commercial Halachah as well as the Noahide laws. The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550
116
The Kittsee Haggadah
The Kittsee Haggadah
Apr 10, 2024
58:24
The library of Agudas Chasidei Chabad houses a remarkable manuscript crafted in 1760 by the talented scribe and artist Chaim ben Asher Anshel of Kittsee, near present-day Bratislava. We’ll trace the journey of this Haggadah from its creation to its acquisition by the Frierdiker Rebbe. Opening this manuscript, we’ll examine its layout, artwork, nusach, and style of nikud, seeking to uncover the influences that shaped Chaim ben Asher’s masterpiece through a comparative analysis with other Haggadahs of that period. To purchase a facsimile of the Kittzee Haggadah: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HP-HAGG.KITZEE To view it online, visit the following link and insert card number “1950”: https://chabadlibrary.org/catalog/index.php?catalog=mscatalog Additional Links: Kittzee Haggadah 1748, Gross Collection https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990000632400205171-1,FL54685621 Kittzee Haggadah 1768, Hebrew Union College https://mss.huc.edu/phpviewer/index.php?path=MS 451 Kittzee Haggadah 1769, Jewish Museum London https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001792760205171-1,FL28179029 Kittzee Haggadah 1771, Hungarian Academy of Sciences https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001920270205171-1,FL59161404 Kittzee Haggadah 1772, JTS Library https://digitalcollections.jtsa.edu/islandora/object/jts%3A62343#page/41/mode/1up Amsterdam 1695 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990013798840205171/NLI#modal-downloadModal Prague 1713 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990013798850205171/NLI Offenbach 1721 https://www.hebrewbooks.org/4923 Frankfurt 1724 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990010665310205171/NLI
117
The Frankist Blood Libel
The Frankist Blood Libel
May 8, 2024
1:04:03
In 1759, a clandestine faction of Shabetai Tzvi’s followers in Poland committed a startling act: they collectively converted to Christianity while simultaneously accusing Jews of the age-old fabrication of using blood in matzah production. Despite the longstanding existence of the blood libel, this marked the first instance where the accusation was made by citing and distorting Talmudic and halachic sources. In this class, we examine the specific passages they employed and learn the response of the Jewish leadership during that era. As Ber of Bolochov, the chronicler of this event, emphasized, recording this narrative was essential to ensure that future generations would understand the suffering and trials of their ancestors and how it was notably worse when it emanated from within the Jewish community. The Frankist Blood Libel
118
Grain Matters: Navigating the Chadash Predicament Across the Centuries
Grain Matters: Navigating the Chadash Predicament Across the Centuries
May 15, 2024
1:08:50
Throughout history, Jewish communities have thrived in diverse locales, each presenting unique agricultural schedules. While adhering to the prohibition against eating chadash proved feasible in some regions, in others, it posed significant obstacles to daily life. This class delves into the strategies employed by the Ashkenazi rishonim and the legendary Acharonim of Poland, exploring five approaches to justify non-compliance, particularly in circumstances where adherence would be exceptionally challenging. Grain Matters: Navigating the Chadash Predicament Across the Centuries
119
The Masada Martyrs: Halachic Perspectives on History’s Hardest Choices
The Masada Martyrs: Halachic Perspectives on History’s Hardest Choices
May 22, 2024
1:12:11
How does a halachic mind interpret the harrowing events at Masada, where Jewish rebels chose death at their own hands over surrender? In this class, we delve into this question, exploring not only the tragic case at Masada but also similar ethical dilemmas faced by Jews during the Middle Ages when confronted with forced conversions under Christian rule. The complexities of these historic moments offer deep insights into the moral and spiritual struggles that have shaped Jewish resilience and identity. The Masada Martyrs: Halachic Perspectives on History’s Hardest Choices
120
Yom Tov Burial: The Talmud, the Rishonim, and the Baal Shem Tov
Yom Tov Burial: The Talmud, the Rishonim, and the Baal Shem Tov
Jun 5, 2024
1:08:49
The Baal Shem Tov passed away on Shavuos in 1760, but the exact day of his passing and the time and manner of his burial have long been subjects of controversy and mystery. In this class, we explore this subject by learning about two major debates regarding yom tov burials that emerged during the Middle Ages. Through this journey, we aim to deepen our appreciation for the laws and values related to yom tov observance and the proper dignity afforded to those who have passed away. Yom Tov Burial: The Talmud, the Rishonim, and the Baal Shem Tov
121
The Provocative Portrait: Unveiling the True Face of Moshe Rabbeinu
The Provocative Portrait: Unveiling the True Face of Moshe Rabbeinu
Jun 18, 2024
1:12:19
Rabbi Yisrael Lifshitz, a well-known commentator on the Mishnah, included a provocative legend about Moshe Rabbeinu in his writings, suggesting that Moshe naturally possessed negative character traits. Over the following decades, some rabbis strongly opposed this legend, arguing that its claims were baseless and defamed Moshe’s revered image. In this class, we’ll talk about the origins of this controversial story, look at both sides of the debate, and explore why this account struck a chord with many Chasidic authors. The Provocative Portrait: Unveiling the True Face of Moshe Rabbeinu
122
Unconditional Love: A Commemorative Study of a Talk by the Lubavitcher Rebbe
Unconditional Love: A Commemorative Study of a Talk by the Lubavitcher Rebbe
Jul 2, 2024
1:06:07
As we approach Gimmel Tammuz, marking the Rebbe’s thirtieth Hilula, we’re doing something different: a text-based class on an important talk by the Rebbe from Shabbos Korach 1988, a talk that captures a lot of the Rebbe’s hashkafah. The aim is to find inspiration and wisdom in his words, which can be applied to our daily lives and shared with others. Unconditional Love: A Commemorative Study of a Talk by the Lubavitcher Rebbe
123
The Rabbi Who Wouldn’t Wait: A Proposal to Reinstate the Korbanos
The Rabbi Who Wouldn’t Wait: A Proposal to Reinstate the Korbanos
Aug 8, 2024
1:19:10
In the 1830s, Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Kalischer penned an extensive letter to one of the Rothschilds, seeking his support for an ambitious plan to reinstate the korbanos on the Temple Mount. The rabbi contended that awaiting Moshiach was neither necessary nor prudent. This proposal ignited a debate among his rabbinic contemporaries, a discourse that continued well into the 20th century. Today, this story invites us to delve into many of the laws involving the Beis Hamikdash, a particularly fitting endeavor during the Three Weeks. The Rabbi Who Wouldn’t Wait: A Proposal to Reinstate the Korbanos
124
Dreams of Revision: The Role of Dreams in Altering Halachic Rulings
Dreams of Revision: The Role of Dreams in Altering Halachic Rulings
Aug 21, 2024
1:09:49
In the 1970s, a Chabad journal in Israel published a story about the Alter Rebbe reversing a halachic ruling based on a dream, sparking significant controversy. This incident opens the door to a fascinating exploration of a practice that was surprisingly common among Ashkenazic rabbis in the 12th and 13th centuries—using dreams to guide halachic decisions. Dreams of Revision: The Role of Dreams in Altering Halachic Rulings
125
Fowl Play: The Great Turkey-Chicken Debate of the 19th Century
Fowl Play: The Great Turkey-Chicken Debate of the 19th Century
Sep 4, 2024
1:07:25
In the 1860s, European Jewish communities faced a unique halachic challenge: the arrival of new chicken breeds from distant lands. As these exotic fowl entered the marketplace, rabbis debated their kosher status, igniting an adjacent discussion on how and why the turkey became accepted as kosher. Fowl Play: The Great Turkey-Chicken Debate of the 19th Century
126
Art of the Blast: Shofar Blowing Customs in Medieval Manuscripts
Art of the Blast: Shofar Blowing Customs in Medieval Manuscripts
Sep 11, 2024
1:07:10
In this episode, we’re diving into fascinating early 16th-century woodcut images and priceless medieval machzor manuscripts to see how they portray the mitzvah of blowing the shofar. We’ll explore the unique details in these images that reveal interesting minhagim of the time, though some might leave us with more questions than answers. Let’s uncover the stories these images tell about our tradition. Links: Book on Jewish Confession (Nuremberg 1508) https://sammlungen.ub.uni-frankfurt.de/freimann/content/thumbview/6515799 Der Juden Spiegel (Cologne 1508) https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/bpt6k1911061m/f39.double Luzzato Machzor https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/the-luzzatto-high-holiday-mahzor-1 Machzor – Bavarian State Library https://www.digitale-sammlungen.de/en/view/bsb00034975?page=82 Kaufmann Machzor - Hungarian Academy of Sciences http://kaufmann.mtak.hu/en/ms388/ms388-012v.htm Machzor – Cambridge University Library https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-ADD-00662/127 Machzor – Austrian National Library https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001692630205171-1,FL21854414]] Art of the Blast: Shofar Blowing Customs in Medieval Manuscripts
127
The Vanishing Verses: Curious Cases of Textual Tampering in Our Machzor
The Vanishing Verses: Curious Cases of Textual Tampering in Our Machzor
Sep 24, 2024
1:09:41
In this class, we will analyze four beautiful piyutim that we chant on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, uncovering some structural oddities along the way. As we raise questions and examine older prints and medieval manuscripts, we’ll uncover a story of mysterious censorship. While we’ll piece together what happened, understanding why it happened will prove to be more challenging. Links: Machzor, Lublin 1551 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990011638640205171/NLI Bodleian Library, MS. Michael 619 https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/9e481d9a-06e6-41e8-ae36-a58d445a1ffa/surfaces/2e65041c-333b-4c90-9b54-c3566fbf73d8/# Bodleian Library, MS. Heb. e. 39 (Geniza) https://hebrew.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/fragments/full/MS HEB e 39 4b.jpg Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Hébreu 631 https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b105392732/f25.item Bodleian Library MS. Laud Or. 321 https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/268d1688-4523-4aed-962a-75f24c8cbfd0/surfaces/0b534075-2679-4a1e-88ca-998acfad9899/# Bodleian Library, MS. Michael 627 https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/b3f2d1d5-ff07-4a6e-87ea-281c41957925/surfaces/ed999873-315d-46dc-a134-c50ca6f24362/# Bavarian State Library, Cod. Hebr. 69 https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001265200205171-1,FL50147206]] Basel University Library, MS. R II 2 https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001730950205171-1,FL61239499]] Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Hébreu 621 https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b105420719/f70.planchecontact State Library Berlin, MS. OR 4200 https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990000819800205171-1,FL55910250]] The Vanishing Verses: Curious Cases of Textual Tampering in Our Machzor
128
Lost in the Geniza: An Anonymous Teshuvah on the Two-Day Yom Tov Debate
Lost in the Geniza: An Anonymous Teshuvah on the Two-Day Yom Tov Debate
Sep 28, 2024
1:07:26
From the Cairo Geniza, we uncover an ancient Judeo-Arabic rabbinic essay offering unique insights into the history and development of the Jewish calendar, particularly the observance of the second day of yom tov outside the Land of Israel. As we delve deeper, this document emerges as part of a broader debate, addressing the Karaites’ opposition to the two-day yom tov tradition. By comparing this text with Rambam’s perspective, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of this critical issue and a window into a pivotal moment in Jewish history. Lost in the Geniza: An Anonymous Teshuvah on the Two-Day Yom Tov Debate
129
Rooted in Tradition: The Calabria Esrog Story
Rooted in Tradition: The Calabria Esrog Story
Oct 10, 2024
1:18:14
Why has the Chabad community favored esrogim from Calabria? In this class, we’ll explore the backstory, diving into the halachic debates about grafted esrogim and why they matter. We’ll also take a closer look at the big discovery in 1955—when it turned out that even Calabria esrogim weren’t completely immune to grafting—and what that meant moving forward. We’ll unpack the history and the questions that still linger today. Rooted in Tradition: The Calabria Esrog Story
130
The Rebbe’s Rashi: Insights from Manuscripts and Incunabula Editions
The Rebbe’s Rashi: Insights from Manuscripts and Incunabula Editions
Nov 1, 2024
1:01:51
As we mark the 60th anniversary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s sichos on Rashi, we will dive into how the Rebbe engaged with some of the earliest print editions and medieval manuscripts of Rashi’s commentary. These unique editions often reveal variant readings of Rashi’s words, each with its own story to tell. Through this journey, we’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Rashi’s foundational commentary—and the Rebbe’s unique approach to understanding it. Links to the relevant manuscripts and prints: Vatican Library, Urb. Ebr. 8 https://digi.vatlib.it/view/MSS Urb.ebr.8 Vatican Library, Vat. Ebr. 47 https://digi.vatlib.it/view/MSS Vat.ebr.47 Reggio de Calabria 1475 https://www.internetculturale.it/it/16/search/detail?id=oai%3Awww.internetculturale.sbn.it%2FTeca%3A20%3ANT0000%3APARE078580 Guadalajara 1476 https://www.hebrewbooks.org/21188 Rome, circa 1470 https://www.internetculturale.it/it/16/search/detail?instance=&case=&id=oai%3Awww.internetculturale.sbn.it%2FTeca%3A20%3ANT0000%3APARE078579 2&qt= Berliner edition https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990020823920205171/NLI The Rebbe’s Rashi: Insights from Manuscripts and Incunabula Editions
131
The Warder Cresson Story
The Warder Cresson Story
Nov 8, 2024
1:08:33
In 1848, a man in Jerusalem on a journey to Judaism was devastated when told he must desecrate Shabbos because, despite undergoing a bris, he wasn’t yet considered Jewish until completing the final step of immersion. His heartbreak ignited a halachic controversy, which we’ll explore in this class. We’ll uncover the identities of the key figures involved and delve into the moving story of a man willing to sacrifice everything for his newfound faith. The Warder Cresson Story
132
The Climate Clash: Rain, Rabbis, and Rulings for the Southern Hemisphere
The Climate Clash: Rain, Rabbis, and Rulings for the Southern Hemisphere
Nov 22, 2024
1:04:27
In the 1630s, pioneering Jewish immigrants in Brazil asked when they should daven for rain, given that their seasons were reversed from those in Europe. Their question sparked a fascinating rabbinic debate that takes us back to a dramatic showdown in 14th-century Toledo, which continues to resonate today. Join us as we explore how Halachah navigates the balance between tradition and reality. The Climate Clash: Rain, Rabbis, and Rulings for the Southern Hemisphere
133
Benches, Bargains, and Bickering: Shul Seating in the Middle Ages
Benches, Bargains, and Bickering: Shul Seating in the Middle Ages
Nov 29, 2024
1:01:54
We kick things off with seven fascinating stories from the teshuvos of medieval Spain, where we discover shul seats being treated like real estate: bought, sold, inherited, mortgaged—and sometimes the center of heated disputes. Then, we shift our focus to Ashkenaz, where this phenomenon is noticeably absent, suggesting a very different set of attitudes and conventions about shul seats. Finally, we dive into how the poskim tackled some of these disputes, applying Halachah to their contemporary realities. Benches, Bargains, and Bickering: Shul Seating in the Middle Ages
134
Lost Lights of Chanukah: Exploring the Books of Maccabees
Lost Lights of Chanukah: Exploring the Books of Maccabees
Jan 2, 2025
1:00:42
The Books of Maccabees tell the dramatic story of the Chanukah revolt and the heroism of the Jewish fighters. But who wrote these books, and why were they left off the Jewish bookshelf? We’ll discuss the history of these texts, explore their reception among Jews throughout the ages, and probe the role they played—or didn’t play—in shaping Jewish memory of the Chanukah story. Lost Lights of Chanukah: Exploring the Books of Maccabees
135
Taxes and Tensions: The Story of Jewish Tax Disputes in Medieval Spain
Taxes and Tensions: The Story of Jewish Tax Disputes in Medieval Spain
Jan 17, 2025
1:06:26
Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderes, the legendary rabbi and leader of Barcelona, received countless questions during his tenure, many of which have been preserved to this day. In this class, we discuss six compelling cases of tax disputes. They reveal remarkable insights into the political and economic realities of the time, the dynamics within Jewish communities, and their interactions with the surrounding non-Jewish world. Taxes and Tensions: The Story of Jewish Tax Disputes in Medieval Spain
136
The Scandalous Marriage, 1348
The Scandalous Marriage, 1348
Jan 24, 2025
1:04:42
On the fifteenth of Shevat, 1348, in the city of Tudela, a man named Yosef performed kidushin with a young woman named Belita. What began as a seemingly ordinary wedding ceremony quickly became a shocking controversy. People who were present asked Belita whether she was truly consenting, and instead of her confirming, it was her father who spoke on her behalf. Further investigation revealed that Belita had previously stated her refusal to this marriage not once but twice, and, in fact, was already married to her uncle Avraham. To complicate matters, she was also engaged to a third man! On the eve of the Black Death sweeping through Europe, this tangled web of relationships turned into a halachic dilemma that ultimately reached the desk of Rabbi Yehudah, son of the Rosh. The Scandalous Marriage, 1348
137
The Regensburg Blood Libel
The Regensburg Blood Libel
Feb 21, 2025
1:06:22
In the 1470s, a series of outrageous blood libels were leveled against Jewish communities in the Germanic lands, including one in Regensburg. To secure their acquittal, the Jews of Regensburg needed an enormous sum of money—far beyond their means. The rabbis gathered in Nuremberg to strategize and ultimately turned to Rabbi Yosef Colon in Pavia with a pressing question: Could they obligate all Jewish communities in the Holy Roman Empire to contribute to helping the Jews in Regensburg? Rabbi Yosef Colon’s response is a masterful work of Talmudic analysis and a sobering reflection on the historical realities of the time. The Regensburg Blood Libel
138
Rambam to the Rescue: His Legendary Letter to Yemen
Rambam to the Rescue: His Legendary Letter to Yemen
Feb 28, 2025
1:03:31
In the 1170s, the Jewish community in Yemen faced an existential crisis: a radical ruler forced them to convert to Islam, an apostate Jew spread anti-Jewish propaganda, and a self-declared Messiah sowed confusion. In response, the Rambam penned one of his most powerful letters, offering guidance and encouragement. As we approach the 44th Siyum HaRambam, we revisit this extraordinary letter, its historical context, and its enduring lessons. Rambam to the Rescue: His Legendary Letter to Yemen
139
Rambam, the Almohads, and the Secret Jews
Rambam, the Almohads, and the Secret Jews
Mar 13, 2025
1:09:09
In the mid-12th century, the Almohads swept across North Africa and Spain, driven by a vision of a strictly unified Muslim society. For the Jewish communities under their rule, the choice was stark and unforgiving: convert, flee, or face death. Many outwardly embraced Islam while secretly maintaining their Jewish faith. A rabbi from afar denounced these covert Jews, insisting that their hidden devotion was meaningless. Rambam, however, fiercely rejected this view. In his Igeres Hashmad, he offered a scholarly and compassionate perspective, guiding his brethren through one of the most harrowing dilemmas in Jewish history. Rambam, the Almohads, and the Secret Jews
140
The Story of the Alter Rebbe’s Script
The Story of the Alter Rebbe’s Script
Mar 26, 2025
1:19:50
The Alter Rebbe’s unique script for safrus has a rich and winding history. It has been inked, shelved, revived, and debated—and everyone seems to have an opinion. So, what is the story behind this ksav? What sets it apart? Why do some embrace it wholeheartedly while others remain unsure? This class explores its historical trajectory, some of its writing nuances, and the ongoing conversation around its adoption. Links to images: Megilah of Rebbe Maharash in Aguch library: https://hebrewstam.blogspot.com/2013/03/blog-post 120.html Megilah attributed to Rebbe Maharash, Carlebach family: https://yeshivasstam.com/maharash Tefillin of the Frierdiker Rebbe: https://hebrewstam.blogspot.com/2012/11/blog-post 19.html#comment-form Tefillin attributed to Reb Reuven Sofer, Gurary family: https://hebrewstam.blogspot.com/2016/01/blog-post 21.html The Story of the Alter Rebbe’s Script
141
The Machine Matzah Controversy
The Machine Matzah Controversy
Apr 2, 2025
1:19:21
In the 1850s, a groundbreaking innovation was introduced in Galicia: machines to facilitate matzah production. What followed was a fierce and dramatic conflict that shook the Jewish world. Pamphlets were published on both sides, each defending its position with vigor, leading to intense debates over halachah, minhag, and economic policy. In this class, we jump into the heart of the controversy as it played out in the late 1850s—the first phase of this conflict—and then explore how later Chabad sources engaged with this issue. The Machine Matzah Controversy
142
The Marranos’ Secret Pesach
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
143
The Doctored Talmud: Prague, 1728
The Doctored Talmud: Prague, 1728
May 6, 2025
1:21:15
There’s a long and painful history of the Gemara being censored in Christian lands, but in 1728, a draconian form of censorship led to the publication of a heavily redacted Maseches Berachos. A fierce debate erupted within the Jewish community: was it better to print a mutilated Gemara, or not to print it at all? In this class, we explore the rabbinic voices on both sides, the arguments they advanced, and actual examples of the edits. It’s a compelling glimpse into a community grappling with impossible choices under the weight of galus. Link to this 1728 edition: https://books.google.com/books?id=IW9iAAAAcAAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs ge summary r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=true The Doctored Talmud: Prague, 1728
144
The Great Semicha Controversy, 1538
The Great Semicha Controversy, 1538
May 13, 2025
1:13:59
After the Spanish Expulsion, a group of leading rabbis in Tzfas, led by Rabbi Yaakov Beirav, set out to revive semichah—the original form of judicial ordination that linked back to Moshe Rabbeinu. They planned to reestablish semichah through broad rabbinic consensus, but not everyone was on board. In Jerusalem, Rabbi Levi ibn Chabib strongly objected, raising serious questions about the halachic basis and the broader implications of the move. This class explores the halachic arguments, the historical backdrop, and the deeper motivations behind one of the boldest and most controversial rabbinic initiatives. The Great Semicha Controversy, 1538
145
The Great Semicha Controversy, Part II
The Great Semicha Controversy, Part II
May 20, 2025
1:14:56
Today, we’re picking up where we left off in the story of chidush hasemicha. We’ll look at what unfolded after Rabbi Levi ibn Chabib pushed back against Rabbi Yaakov Beirav’s plan and how the controversy evolved in the decades that followed. We’ll dive into Rabbi Yosef Caro’s role in the debate and then turn to the remarkable mission in the 1830s, spearheaded by Rabbi Yisrael of Shklov, to find the Ten Lost Tribes in a bold attempt to revive semicha. The Great Semicha Controversy, Part II
146
Up High or Down Low? The Battle Over the Proper Trop for the Aseres Hadibros
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
147
The Rabbi Who Couldn’t Quit Gambling
The Rabbi Who Couldn’t Quit Gambling
Jun 10, 2025
1:07:01
Today, we’ll examine the debate in Venice in 1630 over a communal ban against gambling. Local leaders moved to outlaw games of chance, but Rabbi Yehuda Aryeh Modena pushed back, arguing that the community had no right to restrict a Jew’s freedom in this area. Along the way, we examine the authorship of an anonymous 1595 dialogue on gambling, offering an overview of the halachic arguments and a window into public attitudes about his subject at that time. The story comes full circle as we turn to explore Rabbi Modena’s unique and candid autobiography. The Rabbi Who Couldn’t Quit Gambling
148
The Dilemma of Handing Over One to Save Many
The Dilemma of Handing Over One to Save Many
Jun 20, 2025
1:09:12
Can a Jewish community surrender one of its own to save the many? This class explores three cases from the 1600s and 1700s, where this wrenching question was brought before leading rabbanim. We’ll learn about the details of each case, the rulings the rabbis issued, and the Talmudic sources that shaped their decisions. The Dilemma of Handing Over One to Save Many
149
The Four Halls That Never Were: A Critical Look at Yosifun’s Design of the Beis Hamikdash
The Four Halls That Never Were: A Critical Look at Yosifun’s Design of the Beis Hamikdash
Jul 30, 2025
1:05:49
In this class, we will delve into the architectural anomaly of the “four halls” described in Yosifun’s account of the Beis HaMikdash. This description contradicts the sources in Chazal, and as we will discover, there is a fascinating history behind how this peculiar design came to be. The Four Halls That Never Were: A Critical Look at Yosifun’s Design of the Beis Hamikdash
150
The Cantonist Crisis
The Cantonist Crisis
Aug 22, 2025
1:23:33
In 1827, Czar Nicholas I decreed that Jewish boys and young men be conscripted into the Russian army, a policy that shook Jewish life in Russia to its core. Communities debated and attempted various strategies to confront this crisis, and in that context, the Tzemach Tzedek was asked whether a particular approach was permissible. In this class, we’ll explore the historical backdrop, unpack the Tzemach Tzedek’s responsum, and work together to understand its meaning. The Cantonist Crisis
151
The Saga of Shul Shmoozing: A Historical Look at Talking in Shul Across the Centuries
The Saga of Shul Shmoozing: A Historical Look at Talking in Shul Across the Centuries
Sep 11, 2025
1:00:31
Jews have been talking in shul for centuries, and rabbis and communities have tried countless ways to stop it. From twelfth-century Cairo to the Lower East Side in the early 1900s, this struggle has played out across Jewish communities worldwide. This class offers a light yet thoughtful examination of the history of “shul chatter” and how Jews have navigated it through the ages. The Saga of Shul Shmoozing: A Historical Look at Talking in Shul Across the Centuries
152
Beis Yosef vs. Kesef Mishneh: Following the Paper Trail
Beis Yosef vs. Kesef Mishneh: Following the Paper Trail
Feb 13, 2026
1:13:33
The class follows the paper trail in Rabbi Yosef Caro’s Kesef Mishneh to reconstruct how and when this major commentary actually came into being. After examining its printing history and the author’s stated purpose, the discussion turns to a key flashpoint: whether Kesef Mishneh represents Rabbi Yosef Caro’s final halachic word. We work through the evidence—internal cross-references, page numbers, textual features, and colophons—and ultimately arrive at a tentative conclusion. As one of the central commentaries on the Rambam, this investigation is a fitting and meaningful way to mark the start of the new Rambam learning cycle. Beis Yosef vs. Kesef Mishneh: Following the Paper Trail
153
Censoring the Rambam: Part II
Censoring the Rambam: Part II
Feb 27, 2026
1:00:24
The Mishneh Torah printed in Venice in the 1570s was the product of a broad and deliberate program of censorship. Beyond removing the handful of references to the Christian founder, which we discussed in the prior class, the censors altered many other words and phrases. In some places, entire laws disappear; in others, the language is carefully adjusted to soften its force. In this class, we trace the principles that guided the censors and examine how their work left a lasting imprint on one of Judaism’s foundational texts. Censoring the Rambam: Part II
154
A Scandal on Har Habayis: The Montefiore Story
A Scandal on Har Habayis: The Montefiore Story
Mar 16, 2026
1:02:39
There’s a well-known story about Sir Moses Montefiore going up onto Har Habayis during one of his seven legendary trips to Eretz Yisrael. But once you begin looking into it, you quickly discover that there are several versions of the story, each one telling it a bit differently: when he went up, why he did it, how he did it, and what the rabbinic community’s reaction was. As we’ll see, a great deal depends on who is telling the story. In this class, we’ll return to the sources and try to piece together what actually happened. This is the first installment in a series about going up onto Har Habayis. A Scandal on Har Habayis: The Montefiore Story
155
The Controversial History of Mechiras Chametz
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