Jewish History Uncensored

1

The Tisha B'Av Challenge

Jul 12, 2026

54:06

This week's episode is sponsored by Hershel Barg and Associates LLC לעילוי נשמת צבי בן חיים גרג In this week's episode we look at the deep challenges we have today properly relating to Tisha B'Av. We look at the basics of the day and examine why what is called, 'Avalus HaChurban', is a very important issue. We also examine the question of should seeing the State of Israel in a positive light have any effect on this matter. We look how Shomeh Esrey defines our times and how this affects the Avalus HaChurban. Help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

2

Leadership Lessons

Jul 2, 2026

58:19

In this week's episode, we look at the issue of learning lessons from Tanach. What tools are necessary to properly learn lessons to today's complicated world? Is there a correlation between source of power and limits of power? What lessons about leadership can we learn from Nechemia? This week's episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת יונה דוד בן ילחטו״א ר שמעון יעקב הלוי on the occasion of his first Yahrtzeit. You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

3

Iran War II - Peace

Jun 25, 2026

58:44

In this week's episode we look at the peace agreement that is being finalized. Should we be surprised by the way this agreement is being implemented? Is Trump's approach here surprising? How will this affect the upcoming Israeli elections? How will this affect Bibi's legacy? How common is it for a leader of a democratic country to hold power so long? This week's episode is dedicated in honor of the wonderful Aufruf of Yechezkel David and in honor of the upcoming chasuna of Yechezkel David and Yocheved Tenenbaum You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

4

R Menashe of Iliya, the Process of Learning, and His Travels

Jun 11, 2026

28:04

In this week's episode we discuss the issue of what does it mean being part of the process in terms of explaining Torah and psak. How do we understand R Menashe of Iliya's proposing ideas different from the classics? We also examine a very important statement of R Menashe of Iliya in his last work, Shekel HaKodesh, about his custom of travel. Can we combine this with his first pamphlet, Pesher Davar? Does the statement sound in character for him? Or was it something he learnt later in life? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

5

A Deeper Understanding of Pesher Davar

Jun 4, 2026

53:06

In this week's episode, we have a deeper discussion of why the proposal that R Menashe of Iliya was trying to create something similar to the Aguda of the 1920's is deeply flawed. We examine the very basic differences between the two time periods, and how this affects how we understand what his idea really was. We similarly look at how the basic pattern of R Menashe life and how he travelled a lot played a part in his ideas. We also discuss the phenomenon of political parties and how the contemporary system has amplified the basic flaw of political parties. This week's episode is sponsored by Binyomin and Orli Cohenbash in honor of my daughter Racheli's wedding to Ari Sherman You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

6

The Noda B'Yehuda; The Key Message of Pesher Davar

May 28, 2026

52:57

In this week's episode we take a closer look at the Noda B'Yehuda's famed statement about not saying the Kabbalistic formula before mitzvas. We similarly closely examine if he is referring to Beshtian Chassidim in this teshuva. We also discuss his relationship with R Gershon Kitover and what we can learn from this. We also continue out discussion about Pesher Davar and why there is so much debate about what R Menashe of Iliya meant when he wrote it. What are the basic suggestions out there? Is it possible he was looking to create something similar to Agudas Yisroel or the 1920s? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

7

Pesher Davar - The Three Groups

May 20, 2026

52:13

In this week's episode, we take a deep look at who R Menashe of Iliya was referring to when he divided the Rabbis into three groups. Is the reference to Kabalists only mean the Chassidic Rabbis? Is there any reference to the students of the Vilna Gaon here? We continue to look at the content of the Pesher Davar. What makes understanding the content of this pamphlet difficult to grasp? How common was it in the 1700's for Rabbis to be aware and interested in the latest scientific literature? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

8

R Menashe of Iliya's Pesher Davar

May 14, 2026

51:59

In this week's episode, we take a closer look at R Menashe of Iliya's first pamphlet, Pesher Davar. Who is this pamphlet addressed to? Which Rabbis is referring to when he mentions simple ones? Who are the Kabbalists? Is this referring to the Chassidim? Plungian says that he met R Shnuer Zalman of Liozna and Liadi. Based on what we know about both of them, how should this meeting have gone? How do we reconcile this with R Menashe's statements in Alfai Menashe that are critical of Chassidim? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

9

R Menashe of Iliya's Written Works

May 7, 2026

52:45

In this week's episode, we start properly examining R Menashe of Iliya's written works. We start by looking at his Sefer on Tanach, Binas HaMikra. We will be able to have a solid understanding of his attitude towards Chazal from this sefer. We also start looking at his first printed work, the Kuntress Pesher Davar. We examine who he is referring to when he divides the Rabbis into three groups. Which groups does he put together? What can we learn from this? Are the Kabbalists he refers to only the Chassidim? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

10

The Challenge of Enlightenment and R Menashe of Iliya

May 5, 2026

53:51

In this week's episode, we look at why the Enlightenment created such a spiritual challenge? What made it different than previous confrontations? Where did the Enlightenment accept the wisdom of the Ancients? What was R Menashe of Iliya's approach in these issues? What makes him different than the Maskilim? This week's episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת אבי יוסף בן משה by one of my closest talmidim You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

11

Equality, Expectations & Political Parties

Apr 20, 2026

54:38

In this week's episode, we look at how the concept of legal equality has deeply affected the way people view the world. We also look at how the attempts to implement legal equality with limits of governmental power have affected society. We similarly examine how and why political parties have risen and become such a deep part of our world. You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

12

The Crisis of the Judenrate and Morality in the Holocaust

Apr 13, 2026

55:34

In this week's episode, we look at one of the most difficult aspects of the Holocaust, the Judenrate and their task of carrying out the rules the Germans gave them. Should they be considered collaborators? We also discuss the deep and difficult moral crises that Judenrate faced in the Holocaust. You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

13

Pesach & Emuna Solutions

Apr 5, 2026

55:26

In this episode, we continue to look at the challenge of Emuna in the contemporary world. We also look at the classic response and how well that works in our times. We also carefully examine the order of the steps in building Emuna in our times and how to synthesize this with the classic approach of the Ramban in the end of Bo. This is a link to the structural outline of Shir HaShirim : https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iH6H1yOGHvrvHcRLLIiHsuzU1jVO7Fgxj-Uty79rmps/edit?usp=drivesdk This is a link to the Shir HaShirim and Yeshaya shiurim : Shir HaShirim: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1q-LN-gpWabdd6p6Ldlcg8EuPH2Y8jygP Yeshaya : https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-SquqaGfaikZnwjWB60ncjwF9j1UOEWX You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

14

Pesach & Steps in Emuna

Mar 26, 2026

1:00:55

In this episode, we look at the connection between Pesach and Emuna. We carefully examine why Emuna is and how we relate and use the term today. We similarly examine the basic challenge of Emuna we face in our times. Similarly, we look at the ideal of Emuna and how to come to a realistic appraisal of why we can do to improve our Emuna. You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

15

Iran War Lessons II: Is this Gog u'Magog?

Mar 18, 2026

1:05:41

In this episode, we take a deeper look at the ramifications of Theological motivations and why most people today don't properly understand them. We also look at how the broadening of the Iranian attacks will deeply complicate the situation. We examine the claim of many that this war is connected to the War of Gog. What is the basic structure of the War of Gog? Does this war fit into that in any way? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

16

Iran War '26

Mar 12, 2026

56:24

In this week's episode, we look at the latest war with Iran. We start by examining the limits of air strikes. What can air strikes accomplish? How much effect will an air campaign have? What are the chances that an air campaign will cause the Islamic Republic to fall? We similarly examine governmental structure of the Islamic Republic. How will this effect the events? What lessons can we learn from these events? You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

17

R' Menashe of Iliya and the Vilna Gaon

Mar 5, 2026

53:34

In this week's episode, we more carefully examine R' Menashe of Iliya's interactions with the Vilna Gaon. We see how R' Menashe of Iliya was able to deeply appreciate the Vilna Gaon's depth of understanding all parts of Torah. We also start looking at what R' Menashe of Iliya's ideas were to resolve the crisis of population growth and poverty. You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

18

R Menashe of Iliya, the Vilna Gaon, and the Besht

Feb 26, 2026

52:28

In this week's episode we look at the significance of R Menashe of Iliya's connection with the Vilna Gaon. What was the Vilna Gaon's approach to teaching talmidim? Was this the standard practice? We also look at certain similarities between R Menashe of Iliya and the Besht. This week's episode is dedicated לרפואה השלימה לשרה פעשא בת יפה אסתר by her family and לעילוי נשמת חיה בת ר' אלכסנדער You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

19

Opposition to The Mussar Movement and R Menashe of Iliya as a Talmid of the Gra

Feb 18, 2026

53:25

In this week's episode, we look at the opposition to the Mussar Movement. What type of opposition was there initially, was this connected to the issue of Yeshiva curriculum? We also look at the issue of R Menashe of Iliya as a talmid of the Vilna Gaon. Why would one think he was a talmid of the Vilna Gaon? Why would one think he in fact wasn't? This week's episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת קלמן נפתלי בן יעקב You can now help Rabbi Wittenstien create new and original content via our non profit 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. Your support and partnership is greatly appreciated. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

20

R Menashe of Iliya - His Second Marriage and His Talmidim

Feb 11, 2026

52:29

In this week's episode, we look at the details of R Menashe of Iliya's second marriage. We also look at how he reacted to his father in law's loss of fortune, and how this effected his life. We also look at some of his most important talmidim and what this tells us about him. This week's episode is dedicated לרפואה השלימה לשרה פעשא בת יפה אסתר by her family. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

21

Romema Day Care Tragedy

Feb 5, 2026

1:00:55

In this week's episode, we look at the recent tragedy in Romema where two children died in a day care. What concerning patterns did we see in the reaction to this event? What fundamental mistakes were made in the way things were handled? There is exciting news!! I have opened a non profit called, 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. You can now help me continue to create new and original content. Zelle: [email protected] Credit Card: https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

22

R Menashe of Iliya - His Reputation and His Second Marriage

Jan 29, 2026

1:02:59

In this week's episode, we look at how R Menashe of Iliya's reputation was seen by the Gedolai Lita as we can see from careful reading of the Haskomos. We also look at the issue of when one should respond to outside ideas. We also look at his second marriage and how it differed in many ways from his first marriage, and we similarly see how he coped with significant difficulties. There is exciting news!! I have opened a non profit called, 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. You can now help me continue to create new and original content. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

23

R Menashe Iliya vs Moses Mendelssohn

Jan 25, 2026

55:34

In this episode we continue looking at some of Plungian's stories about R Menashe of Iliya. We specifically look at his claim that R Menashe wanted to travel to Berlin to study with Mendelsohn, but wasn't able to due to passport issues. We also start looking at his great grandson, R Yitzchok Spalter's biographical sketch. We look at his first marriage and divorce. This week's episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת שלמה בן פנחס by the family There is exciting news!! We have opened a non profit called, 'The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation'. You can now help us continue to create new and original content. Zelle : [email protected] Credit Card : https://thechesedfund.com/thejewishhistoryandtanachfoundation/support-r-wittenstein-s-tanach-and-jewish-history-project The Jewish History and Tanach Foundation is a registered 501-3c. EIN : 33-485 5627 Donor's Fund account number: 2642025 Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

24

The Spalter Biographical Sketch

Jan 14, 2026

53:13

In this episode we continue looking at some of Plungian's stories about R Menashe of Iliya. We specifically look at his claim that R Menashe wanted to travel to Berlin to study with Mendelsohn, but wasn't able to due to passport issues. We also start looking at his great grandson, R Yitzchok Spalter's biographical sketch. We look at his first marriage and divorce. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

25

R Menashe of Iliya - His Background

Jan 8, 2026

51:02

In this episode, we continue to look at the cultural milieu of the Lithuanian Talmidai Chochomim. How much of the contemporary European thought were they aware of? We look at R Menashe of Iliya's early life and background. Where was he from? Which other famous people were from his home town of Smargon? What does this teach us about his life? We also start looking at the complications due to the fact that his original biographer, Mordechai Plungian, was one of the Maskilim of Vilna. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

26

The Communal Crisis of Polish Jewry

Jan 1, 2026

51:46

In this episode we look at the basic communal tensions that existed in the Polish Lithuanian Jewish Community during the 1700's. What were the main causes of these tensions? What were the main factors in determining communal leadership? Did these natural tensions contribute to the challenge of determining practical leadership? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

27

The Bondi Beach Massacre

Dec 24, 2025

58:18

In this week's episode we look at the shocking massacre in Bondi Beach. What factor makes this even more shocking? What lessons can we learn from this? We similarly examine the issue of how distant we are in a practical sense from the times of Moshiach. This week's episode is sponsored לעילוי נשמת ר׳ אליהו בן יוסף Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

28

The Communal Crisis of Polish Jewry

Dec 21, 2025

52:24

In this episode we look at the basic communal tensions that existed in the Polish Lithuanian Jewish Community during the 1700's. What were the main causes of these tensions? What were the main factors in determining communal leadership? Did these natural tensions contribute to the challenge of determining practical leadership? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

29

Koheles - Understanding the Conclusion

Dec 11, 2025

52:57

In this episode, we look at how to understand the second half of the Sefer. How is Shlomo dealing with all the problems he raised in the first half of the Sefer? What are the key tools that we need to employ in order to not get utterly confused by the turmoil that naturally exists in all forms of human society? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

30

Koheles: Understanding The Challenge

Dec 5, 2025

52:53

In this week's episode, we take a closer look at the first half of Koheles. What are the tools that G-d placed in the world and in man himself that should teach us the importance of careful adherence to Torah? Similarly, Shlomo prophetically looks at the outcome, how have we done with all these tools? And similarly, Shlomo looks at human failure and tragedy, and distinguishes between the common tragedy and the ultimate tragedy. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

31

Koheles - Sefer Theme

Nov 27, 2025

52:17

In this week's episode, we look at the challenge of dividing Koheles into smaller subsections. What criteria can one use to do this? We also examine what issue is Shlomo dealing with in Koheles? Who is the Sefer addressing? What are the key components of the life level challenges that Shlomo is dealing with? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

32

Free Will - The Basics

Nov 20, 2025

55:18

In this week's episode we discuss the basics of Free Will. What is the difference between Free Will and Freedom? What is the purpose of Free Will? What can proper use of Free Will do? How does a person's background affect their Free Will? How important is Free Will in determining how G-d interacts with the world? When done actually exercise Free Will? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

33

Lessons from the Mamdani Election

Nov 13, 2025

56:34

In this week's episode, we discuss the election of Mamdani as Mayor of New York City. How surprising was his victory? What were the main factors in why he was elected? What were the main flaws of the Coumo campaign? What lessons can we learn from this? How concerned should we be because of his election? Are there any historical parallelisms to his election? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

34

Koheles - The Structural Challenge

Nov 7, 2025

54:50

In this week's episode we discuss the basic challenge of understanding the Sefer Level structure of Koheles. What makes Koheles so difficult at Sefer level? What do we definitely know? We also discuss how I decided to break the Sefer down into subsections. We also discuss if there is any relationship between Koheles and any school of Philosophy Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

35

Gaza War - More Lessons

Oct 30, 2025

53:32

    In this week's episode we look at more of the lessons of the Gaza War and the Ceasefire.  How do we understand the phenomenon of party politics? Where did this develop? How should one ideally react to party politics? Did the founding fathers of the Constitution think this would occur in the United States?    Similarly we look at the world reaction to the conclusion of the Gaza War. How much of an aberration are the calls for the destruction of the State of Israel? What are their motivations?    This episode is dedicated by Shimi and Kayla Dimenstein לעילוי נשמת סבתו שרה בת רחל Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein's Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join!  For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS  

36

Gaza War - Ceasefire

Oct 23, 2025

54:20

In this episode we look at the Ceasefire Agreement and also look back at the two years of this war. What lessons can we learn from this? What happened to all the National Unity that existed in the beginning of the war? How should Israel deal with diplomatic pressure? Are there any specific references to this war in Tanach? Why do so many people think there should be references to this in Tanach? This week’s episode is sponsored by a former Torat Shraga talmid as a merit for the physical and emotional recovery of all the released hostages, and also that the other hostages should merit proper burial. It is also sponsored by Chaim Yehuda Meyer in honor of his Bar Mitzva Parsha. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

37

Koheles: Controversy & My Personal Experiences

Oct 12, 2025

53:24

In this episode, we look at why Koheles is a controversial Sefer in Tanach. Chazal weren’t sure if Koheles should be included in Tanach, why is this true? Is there a connection in how we understand this issue and the machlokes in Chazal if Koheles was authored with Ruach HaKodesh? We also look at the basic difficulties people have in learning and understanding the Sefer. I also discuss my personal path and experiences in coming to a solid understanding of the Sefer. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

38

Man, Authority & Obligation

Oct 5, 2025

56:00

In this week’s episode, we look at what is called the replication crisis. This academic crisis questions the accuracy of accepted psychological studies. In order to properly understand this phenomenon, we look at how the deep changes in society have affected how we view authority. Similarly, we look at the different levels of obligation we find in Chazal. And we also look at how people react very differently when challenged by deeper levels of authority. This week’s episode is dedicated by Ben and Talia Silver in honor and for the merit for the safety of all the IDF soldiers. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

39

Humanity & Narrative

Sep 28, 2025

52:14

In this week’s episode, we look at one of the deepest expressions of the Human Soul - man’s quest for cohesive narrative. What part of human behavior do we see this from? What can we learn from this? Where is this phenomenon properly explained in Torah? What is the ultimate potential of this phenomenon? This week’s episode is dedicated by Ben and Talia Silver in honor and for the merit for the safety of all the IDF soldiers. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

40

Rosh HaShana & Man

Sep 18, 2025

55:36

In this episode we look at the deep dualism of Rosh HaShana. On one hand it is a chag, on the other hand it is a time of Divine Justice. How does this connect to the fact that Rosh HaShana is the day Man was created. We also look at some of Daniel Kahneman’s ideas about the nature of Human thought process. When is a phenomenon an expression of the soul? How should this affect how we perceive it? This week’s episode is dedicated by יגאל יצחק בן גיל as a merit for his grandmother שרה בת עזרא on the occasion of her 17th Yahrtzeit which is on Rosh HaShana. It should also be a זכות for יגאל יצחק בן גיל וברכה יטא בת ישראל משה for health, Hatzlacha in all matters and to have a שנה טובה ומתוקה Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

41

The Sukkos Story of Bayis Shani: The Basic Dynamic of the Times of Moshaich

Sep 10, 2025

55:17

In this episode, we look at one of the most puzzling stories of Bayis Shani, the story of Sukkos. The possuk seems to imply that this was the first time they kept Sukkos since Yehoshua. How do we understand this? We also look at the basic dynamics of the times of Moshiach. How does the dynamic between Israel and the other nations change? And similarly we discuss the Ingathering of the Exiles. This week’s episode is dedicated לרפואה השלימה לשרה פעשא בת יפה אסתר by her family Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

42

Bayis Sheini - The Basic Situation

Sep 4, 2025

51:50

In this week’s episode, we start by revisiting the Kinos and the difficulty they pose. Is there a way to turn the Kinos into a normal davening experience? We take another look at why we try to relate to the Churban in this complicated fashion. We look carefully at the Bayis Shani era and how to understand the narrative. How do the possukim describe the Rosh HaShana or Ezra and Nechemia? What was causing the people to cry so much? This week’s episode is dedicated לרפואה השלימה לשרה פעשא בת יפה אסתר by her family Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

43

Understanding the Challenge: Understanding the Bayis Shani Structure

Aug 28, 2025

52:25

In this week’s episode, we take a closer look at why people from the Yeshiva world have significant problems relating to the issues of Moshiach. How much of this issue is clearly discussed in Shas? Where in fact is this issue discussed? We also examine the question of is there any reason to think the structure of Bayis Shlishi should be similar to Bayis Shani? And we also discuss the structure of Bayis Shani, and why Bayis Shani had this exact structure. This week’s episode is dedicated לרפואה השלימה לשרה פעשא בת יפה אסתר Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

44

Moshiach - Internalizing the Challenge: The Basic Structure

Aug 21, 2025

52:48

In this episode, we take a careful look at how the Halacha looks at ultimate loss based on Hilchos Availus. We also look at how people generally speaking react to this situation. And similarly, we discuss how this should affect how we relate to The Bais HaMikdash and Moshiach. We also start looking at the basic structure of Moshiach based on the parallelisms in Tanach. What are the basic parallelisms and what is the first key structural phenomena of Moshaich? This week’s episode is sponsored לעילוי נשמת חיה מרים בת ר הלל Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

45

Mashiach - Internalizing the Challenge: Understanding the Basic Structure

Aug 18, 2025

52:54

In this episode, we take a careful look at how the Halacha looks at ultimate loss based on Hilchos Availus. We also look at how people generally speaking react to this situation. And similarly, we discuss how this should affect how we relate to The Bais HaMikdash and Moshiach. We also start looking at the basic structure of Moshiach based on the parallelisms in Tanach. What are the basic parallelisms and what is the first key structural phenomena of Moshaich? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

46

Mashiach - Grasping the Challenge

Aug 7, 2025

55:04

In this episode, we look at one of the key issues we have relating to the Moshiach issues, grasping the National Level situation. Where do people have a greater level of understanding the lack of the Jewish People’s national status, in the USA or in Israel? Why is this true? How does this relate to understanding the importance of Moshiach? We also examine the phenomenon of why people tend to drift to very superficial understandings of many important ideas. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS PM

47

Moshiach - Understanding the Importance

Jul 31, 2025

53:53

In this episode, we look at the basic challenge we have in understanding and relating to what the concept of Moshiach really means. One of the key concepts we have to understand is what does Shchina and Prophecy mean. Why don’t we aspire to that lofty goal? Is this a mistake? We also discuss the issue of when it is proper for a person to take on lofty spiritual acts. Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

48

Redemption Prophecies in Yechezkel: Chronology in Tanach

Jul 24, 2025

56:04

This week’s episode is sponsored לעילוי נשמת עלקא עליזה בת ר יעקב In this week’s episode, we look at the last part of Yechezkel. What is the common theme of these Prophecies? What makes this section of Prophecies unique, the topics covered or the presentation? We also take a careful look at the issue of Chronology in Tanach. What are the basic approaches to this issue? Which among the classics has the most radical approach to this issue? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

49

Yechezkel - Nature & Structure

Jul 17, 2025

49:39

This week’s episode is dedicated in honor of the Magid Shiur of the Daf Yomi Shiur in Kehilas Bais Yisroel in Cedarhurst In this week’s episode, we look at the basic structure of Sefer Yechezkel. Yechezkel is the most clear of Neviim Achronim. Why is this true? Similarly, we find a number of Prophecies repeated almost identically in the Sefer, why does this happen? What is the basic difference between the first part and the second part of the Sefer? Similarly what does having his mouth, ‘opened’, teach us about the Sefer? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

50

The Challenge of Waiting for Moshiach and the Second Half of Yeshaya

Jul 10, 2025

52:41

This week’s episode is dedicated in honor of the Magid Shiur of the Daf Yomi Shiur in Kehilas Bais Yisroel in Cedarhurst In this episode we look at the very basic challenges we have today truly waiting for Moshiach. Why weren’t we challenged by this in the past the way we are today? Similarly we take a quick look at the second part of Yeshaya that deals with these issues. How many parts are there in this part of Yeshaya? Why does the Sefer have so many thematic changes? Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

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