Jewish History Uncensored

1

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

2

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

3

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

4

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

5

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

6

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

7

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

8

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

9

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

10

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

11

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

12

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

13

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

14

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

15

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

16

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

17

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  

18

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

19

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

20

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

21

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

22

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

23

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

24

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

25

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

26

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

27

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

28

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

29

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

30

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

31

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

32

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

33

Authorship of Yeshaya

Jul 3, 2025

1:02:22

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 issue of the Authorship of Yeshaya. The second part of the Sefer has a very different set of topics it deals with. Why is this true? Similarly, this issue used to be heavily discussed and was a live issue. Today the discussion about this issue is quite limited. Why is this true? We also take another look at the bitachon challenges that the recent Iranian conflict brought out. And also examine some of the comments that have been circulating. 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

USA Iran War

Jun 26, 2025

1:01:11

This week’s episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת הרב אהרן דוד בן הרב מאיר חדש, the Moshgiach of the Mir tzl by a talmid. This week’s episode looks at the American attack on the Iranian nuclear facilities. How surprising was this? How much of a departure from standard US policy was this? What historical precedents are there for this? How do we understand what is motivating the Iranian policy? We also look at why people outside of Israel usually have more severe reactions to events like this. And similarly discuss how this relates to bitachon. 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

Lessons from the Israel Iran Conflict

Jun 19, 2025

57:16

This week’s episode is dedicated by BZ and Hadassah as a zchus for all of those in danger and especially in Israel to be safe. And also as a zchus for the IDF and all the Israeli security forces to have success and safety. In this episode we look at the current Israel Iran conflict. How do we understand the level of the conflict? Is this an operation, a battle, or a war? How normal is to be frightened in such a situation? What tools do we have to cope with such a situation? 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

The Neviim Achronim Challenge: Yeshaya - Book of Moshiach

Jun 12, 2025

52:17

We start by discussing the primary reason that most Talmidei Chachomim feel challenged by Neviim Achronim. What is the proper way to understand the Prophecies that seem to be repeating the same things over and over. We also discuss the theme of Sefer Yeshaya. Yeshaya is the most important Sefer in order to understand the Basics of the Revelation of the Moshiach. We also look at the structure of the first half 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

37

Melachim - The Book of Olam HaZeh

May 29, 2025

49:37

In this episode we look at the theme of Melachim. The best way to accurately synopsize the Sefer in one clear phrase is that Melachim is, ‘The Book of Olam HaZeh.’ Why is this the way I think Melachim should be described. We start by examining the basic challenges we have in understanding the Sefer. Many would try to use contemporary political phenomena to understand the Sefer. However this is deeply flawed. The key concept we must understand is what is the relationship between a Prophet and the King. Similarly, what is the role of a Prophet at the time of Kingship. 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

Shoftim & Shmuel

May 21, 2025

48:18

In this episode we take a closer look at why Rashi understands that the key theme of Shoftim is developing the Mishkan. How do we reconcile this idea with the main narrative of the Sefer that talks about the problems of the times with Avoda Zara? We also discuss Chazal attributing authorship of the Sefer to Shmuel. How did they know this? What does this teach us about the Sefer? Similarly, we look at the basic theme of Shmuel. Why do we call the Sefer called Shmuel and not Dovid? Isn’t Dovid the protagonist for more of the Sefer than Shmuel? Similarly, why does the Sefer include the stories of Eli in Shmuel and not in Shoftim? And also why are the last stories of Dovid in Melachim? 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

The Sefer Level Challenge

May 15, 2025

49:47

In this episode, we continue looking at the challenge of understanding the Sifrey Tanach at the Sefer level. We also discuss the importance of properly understanding the classics and how much time we should be willing to invest in this. And similarly we discuss the issue of not forcing our ideas on Tanach, rather patiently developing the intrinsic ideas. We also look at the Sefer level theme of Sefer Shoftim. What is the key theme of the Sefer? Why did they build the Mishkan in Shilo, if Jerusalem is the ideal place to build the Mikdash? 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

Parsha to Sefer

May 8, 2025

57:17

In this episode, we look at one of the most challenging aspects of understanding Tanach, the journey between parsha level understanding to Sefer level understanding. Part of this process is the necessity to divide the Sefer into major sections. While a small number of sefarim have clearly defined subdivisions, most don’t. Similarly we discuss when one can use a statement of Chazal to understand the theme of a 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

41

Understanding Moshaich

May 1, 2025

55:01

In this week's episode, we look at how to understand Moshiach and what effect the coming of Moshiach will have on the world. Similarly we look at how the Rambam and Ramban discuss the issue of identification of Moshiach. What are the Tanachic parallels to Moshiach and what can we learn from them? 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

The Holocaust - Morality & Motivation

Apr 22, 2025

57:18

In this episode we look at the general debate amongst Historians about how to understand the German’s motivations for the Holocaust. Were the people directly involved in implementing the Holocaust deranged, similar to those who perpetrate school shootings? How long had German intellectuals been discussing what was called, ‘The Jewish Problem’? How long had the solution of extermination been discussed for? What part did the Nazi Party play in this? 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

The Contemporary Crisis of Freedom

Apr 18, 2025

1:01:54

In this episode, we look at how the modern world defines freedom. We also examine why there is such turmoil and conflict in the USA at the present time. What are the key factors driving this deep turmoil and conflict? Are there any historical parallels to the present situation? What lessons should we learn from this? 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

Pesach - Freedom

Apr 10, 2025

1:09:00

In this episode, we look at the key theme of Pesach, freedom. How does this connect with eating matza on Pesach? Is matza, ‘poor bread’, or , ‘poor man’s bread’? How can a poor basic food be considered a symbol of freedom? How do we understand freedom in Torah? How do practically relate to this facet of the Mitzva? 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

WZO Elections Controversy

Apr 3, 2025

1:07:03

This week’s episode is dedicated in honer of the wedding of Eliyahu David and Nechama Besser In this episode, we look at the tumult in the American Yeshiva world about if one should participate in the elections for the WZO. What is the Historical context of this issue? How does the Ausritt controversy affect this issue? Are there any significant differences in this issue between today and when it originally arose? 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

Parsha Problems

Mar 27, 2025

55:42

In this episode, we look at the phenomenon of the slightly different Parsha systems that are found in different Tanachs. We also discuss the major controversy about how one should write Neviim. Why was this controversy specifically focused on Neviim and not other sefarim? We also start looking at the issue of repetitive phrases in Tanach. How do understand this phenomenon? What does it usually show us about a 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

47

Parsha Flow: Parsha to Parsha Flow

Mar 20, 2025

48:15

This week’s episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת אפרת בת אושרה In this episode we look at a couple of examples of how taking Parsha flow in account changes the way we understand the different elements of the Parsha. We also look at the more complicated issue of when to thematically connect two different Parshios. 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

Prophecy & Parsha

Mar 13, 2025

52:02

This week’s episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת ר אליהו ב״ר יוסף In the first part of this episode, we properly examine the issue of how the basic principles of Propecy relate to the writing of Nach. What do the basic requirements for Prophecy teach us about the writing of Tanach? We also continue looking at how Rashi clearly utilizes the Parsha system and how this effects how he explains the individual possukim. Similarly we see how Rashi skillfully uses existing Midrashim to explain vague passages in Nach. 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

Rashi’s Parsha Approach

Mar 6, 2025

54:30

In this episode, we take a more careful look at how Rashi uses the parsha system in his commentary. How much of a factor is this in Rashi? We similarly examine why it is so important to maintain a connection to the classic understanding of Tanach. We also examine the issue of how to understand the writing of Tanach. (229) 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

Parsha & Pshat

Feb 27, 2025

55:13

In this episode, we look at how the Parsha system should affect the way we understand Tanach. What is the difference between the Parsha system, which is the organic division of Tanach and the chapter system which was created by English monks in the 1100’s. We also look at how Rashi subtly uses the Parsha system. 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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