Jewish History Uncensored

101

#177 - The Gaza War - Understanding the Governmental Crisis

Feb 9, 2024

51:20

In this episode, we look at the basic structure of how modern government works, and how this creates a challenge in governance. We also look at why specifically there is a challenge now. We also discuss where in Torah we can find information that can give us direction in these issues. 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

102

#176 - Gaza War - Accomplishments & Crisis

Feb 1, 2024

53:59

In this episode we look at the Historical factors than have enable Israel to largely conduct this war in a successful way. How is it that the IDF has become such a trusted institution? Which policies brought it to this place? Who was involved in making these decisions? We also look at the cause of lack of trust in the motivations of some of the major political figures. What defines a responsible and capable political figure? How had Netanyahu’s legacy been affected by the events? 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

103

#175 - Gaza War - The Looming Crisis

Jan 28, 2024

52:00

In this episode we take a look at how our understanding of this event has been affected over the last months. We examine the unique facets of this conflict as opposed to the other Israeli Arab conflicts. We also look at the looming crisis that is brewing on how to deal with this conflict. 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

104

#174 - Zman Tefila & The Vilna Gaon’s Opposition to Chassidus

Jan 18, 2024

51:23

In this episode we examine more of the technical details of zman Tefila. How late is one allowed to start Shachris? What defines starting Shachris? We also start taking a new look at the Vilna Gaon’s opposition to Chassidus. How many elements were there to his opposition to Chassidus? What was the Vilna Gaon’s attitude to practical Kaballa? Does this have anything to do with his opposition to Chassidus? 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

105

#173 - Nusach HaTefila & Zmanai Tefila

Jan 14, 2024

54:15

In this episode we take a more in depth look at the origins of the different Nusachs. Can someone change from Ashkenaz to Sefard, or from Sefard to Ashkenaz? What is the issue connected to? We also look at the issue of does Chassidus have any antinomian element to it? Where does the practice of davening after, ‘the time of Tefila’, come from? 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

106

The Sabbatean Accusations Against Chassidus

Jan 5, 2024

50:54

In this episode we take a more in depth look at the second arrest of the Baal Tanya. We look at how the Russian government generally dealt with the Jewish community in those times and how this affected this story. We also focus on the Sabetian accusations. Why would the Czarist government consider this a serious accusation? 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

107

Release of the Baal Tanya & the Second Arrest

Dec 28, 2023

56:33

In this episode we look at why the Russians decided to release the Baal Tanya. We similarly look at the second arrest. What caused the second arrest? Why was it shorter than the first one? We similarly look at some of the Baal Tanya’s statements on tefila. Similarly we look at his expert leadership in dealing with the issue of separate minyanim. 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

108

The Arrest of the Baal Tanya

Dec 21, 2023

52:36

In this episode, we look at the first arrest and imprisonment of the Baal Tanya. What events caused this to happen? Where was he held in jail? Why was he held in jail for so long? How much danger was he in? How involved was the Csar Paul involved in the case? We also clarify what I mean when I refer to the theological machlokes between the Gra and Chassidus. 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

109

Kissinger - Youth & Legacy - Baal HaTanya - His Involvement in The Machlokes

Dec 14, 2023

51:59

In this episode, we examine Kissinger’s youth more carefully based on a documentary produced by people in the KAJ community. We also look at the challenge of morality. We also look at R Shnuer Zalman of Liozna’s part in the machlokes between the Chassidim and the Misnagdim. What affect did R Shneur Zalman have on this machlokes? When did he become one of the primary figures in the machlokes? What caused the new outbreak of hostilities in 1798? 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

110

Henry Kissinger - Legacy, Lessons & Controversy

Dec 6, 2023

1:00:42

Henry Kissinger was one of the most important American diplomats of the twentieth century. He aroused very strong feelings and opinions in many circles. Why is this true? What is his key legacy? What lessons can we learn about life from Kissinger and his legacy? 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

111

Torah Lishma - Synthesizing the Gra and R' Chaim Volozhin

Nov 30, 2023

51:49

In this week’s episode we take a deeper look at how to properly understand R Chaim Voluzhin’s comments on the issue of Torah Lishma. We also discuss how to synthesize the comments we saw from the Vilna Gaon with R Chaim Voluzhin’s presentation 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

112

Torah Lishma - The Vilna Gaon’s Approach

Nov 21, 2023

48:49

Many assume that R Chaim Volozhin completely argues with the Tanya about how to understand Torah Lishma. In this episode, we take a closer look at the issue. We specifically look at a number of statements from the Vilna Gaon in Mishley that discuss the issue. How does this affect how we understand R Chaim Volozhin’s comments on the issue? We also take a closer look at the custom of wearing hats and jackets for davening, and how people relate to this is a practical sense. 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

113

Tanya - Torah Lishma: A Deeper Look

Nov 16, 2023

52:20

In this episode we take a deeper look at the potential benefits of proper Torah learning. How does this have the potential to give us the tools to deal with the challenges of maintaining commitment in our times? We also look at how there are parallelisms between Tanya and Nefesh HaChaim in their understanding of high level Avodas Hashem. We also examine if there is a connection between the Chassidic practice of wearing a bekesh or jacket when they learn and the Tanya’s definition of Torah Lishma. Or is there another reason for this practice. 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

114

Tanya - Torah & Dveikus

Nov 8, 2023

50:23

In this episode we look at how Tanya understands the process of learning Torah and how this is connected to Dveikus. According to the Tanya, how do we understand the ideal of focusing on Dveikus when learning Torah? According to Tanya is there a connection between the process of understanding a sugya and Dveikus? We also look at the Ramchal’s statements about this issue. Is Tanya closer to the Ramchal on this or to the Nefesh HaChaim? 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

115

Torah Lishma and Focused Direction in Avodas Hashem

Nov 2, 2023

57:06

In this episode, we start looking at the famed machlokes between the Tanya and Nefesh HaChaim about Torah Lishma. In order to properly understand R Chaim Volozhin’s approach it is necessary to understand what place, ‘Avodas Hashem’, plays in the Misnagdic world. How important did the Vilna Gaon and R Chaim Volozhin think this was? We similarly examine the famed statement of R Yisroel Salanter on the obligation to learn Mussar. Would R Yisroel say the same thing today? 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

116

The Tanach Translations

Oct 26, 2023

1:04:39

Most of this episode looks at the basic challenge of translation. The beginning of the episode has some important insights into the issues we have discussed about the Gaza war. We examine why the challenge of translation is even more difficult when translating from Hebrew to English. We also examine the major English translations of the last hundred years. Which translation is the best? What flaws do the different translations have? 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

117

The Gaza War, Politics & Relating to News

Oct 19, 2023

52:52

In this episode we more carefully examine why Israel is calling this a war. We take a look at one of the basic parts of politics, compromise. Is compromise a necessary evil, or is it a standard part of national cohesion and cooperation? We also look at the basic challenge of understanding the news and how to properly relate to news. What are the basic challenges in relating to the news? 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. We are currently learning DIVREI HAYAMIM Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

118

The Gaza War

Oct 12, 2023

54:39

In this week’s episode we look at how to understand The Gaza War. What lessons can we learn from this war? What is the difference between this and the Yom Kippur War? What major factor will play a significant part in determining how long this war goes on for? Is this part of the War of Gog? What tools do we have to cope better with the difficulties of the 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. We are currently learning KOHELES Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

119

#159 - The Spinoza Documentary

Oct 3, 2023

1:03:39

In this week’s episode we look at the recent documentary about Spinoza. Spinoza made the news a couple of times in the last couple of years because of this documentary. What level tool of knowledge is a documentary? What are the limits of a documentary in general? How does this documentary do in terms of the limits of a documentary? 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. We are currently learning KOHELES Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

120

158 - Vilna Gaon on Beinonim - Definition & Advice

Sep 27, 2023

1:06:49

In this week's episode we take a deeper look at how the Vilna Gaon understands Tzadikim, Banonim and Reshaim. How much of a difference is there between the Vilna Gaon and Tanya on this topic? We also look at the basic advise and recommendations the Vilna Gaon has for us on these topics. 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. We are currently learning KOHELES Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

121

#157 - Confrontation of 1771, Vilna Gaon on Tzadikim,Beinonim & Reshaim

Sep 21, 2023

58:42

In the first half of this episode we look at some of the legends that people say about the famed confrontation between the Vilna Gaon and R Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk and the R Shnuer Zalman of Liozna. Is it possible that the Vilna Gaon challenged R Menachem Mendel to a debate? In the second half of the episode we go back to look more at the Vilna Gaon’s definition of Tzadikim, Banonim, and Reshaim. We see how the Gaon illustrates the basic, ‘Nefesh’ level difference between these categories. 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. We are currently learning MELACHIM I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

122

#156 - Relating to the Judgment of Rosh HaShana

Sep 12, 2023

58:59

In this week’s episode, we look at some of the key events of this year, the tumult of the reforming of the Israeli Supreme Court and the advances of AI. What lessons can we learn from these events? How can we use these lessons to improve or ability to relate to Rosh HaShana? 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. We are currently learning MELACHIM I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

123

#155 - Tanya - Beinoni & Tzadik + Vilna Gaon on Beinoni

Sep 6, 2023

49:14

In this week’s episode, we take look at the Tanya’s distinction between the level of Banoni and the level of Tzadik. Is there a practical way to know who is has a soul that is the level of Tzadik? Why is it that people are so interested in this? We start looking at the Vilna Gaon’s statements in Mishley on these issues. Was the Vilna Gaon directly responding to the Tanya? Where does he agree with Tanya and where does he argue? 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. We are currently learning MELACHIM I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

124

#154 - Tanya and the Definition of "Beinonim"

Aug 31, 2023

53:14

In this episode we look at the issue of how to define the term, ‘Banoni’. Tanya has a well known and fascinating way to define the term. In order to understand the issue better, we examine the different places in Shas that this term is used and also look at how the term was classically defined. We specifically take a deep look at the sugya of, ‘The three Books of Rosh HaShana’. Is there any relationship between R Hutner’s understanding of banoni and Tanya’s understanding of banon 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. We are currently learning Melachim I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

125

#153 - Tanya - Importance of Lishma

Aug 24, 2023

52:06

In this episode we take a deeper look at how the Tanya explains the importance of doing a mitzva properly. We also look at the response of R Chaim Volozhin to this. We also take a practical look at when a person should be adding on extras to their mitzva performance. 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. We are currently learning MELACHIM I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

126

#152 - Tanya, Authority, Neo Chassidus & Pursuit of Perfection

Aug 17, 2023

56:49

In this week’s episode we look at how the Tanya explains the importance of doing a mitzva lishma. We also look at why there is more interest in what are called, ‘pnimius of Torah’, today than there was in the past. How is authority and duty viewed today? How did it used to be viewed in the past? How does this affect our commitment to Torah? We also look at what is called Neo Chassidus. Why has this become more popular? 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. We are currently learning MELACHIM I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

127

#151 - Tanya as Philosophy

Aug 10, 2023

56:30

In this episode we discuss the statement found in many contemporary publications that call Tanya, Chassidic Philosophy. Is this an accurate description of Tanya? What is the basic difference between how people in the Chassidic world and people in the Litvish world will try to improve their fulfillment of mitzvas? How does this relate to the basic differences between the Besht and the Gaon? 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. We are currently learning Melachim I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

128

#150-The Tanya Controversy

Aug 3, 2023

56:22

In this episode we look some of the basic issues that Tanya discusses. We similarly look at how commonly are the Tanya’s statements included in general discussion of these issues. One of the Vilna Gaon’s greatest historical legacies is the primacy of the sugya. How does the Vilna Gaon define the sugya? Should the Tanya be included in the sugya in the issues he discusses? 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. We are currently learning Melachim I Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

129

#149 - Relating to Tisha b’Av & the Kinnos

Jul 25, 2023

56:30

In this episode we look at some of the key reasons we have difficulty relating to Tisha b’Av. We also look at why we find the Kinos so difficult to relate and even to say. We also look at some tools we can employ to better relate to both Tisha b’Av and the Kinos. This is the link to the Kinos shiurim in Rabbi Menachem Spira’s shul in Passaic: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16Xv10Gm0Am1mNH-2DGYWMvwILQEJdj-R 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

130

148-JHU-Chassidic Reaction to AI & R' Shnuer Zalman

Jul 20, 2023

51:43

In the episode, we look at how contemporary Chassidic groups have reacted to the AI advances. Why have the American Chassidic groups reacted and not the Israeli ones? We continue looking at R Shnuer Zalman development as a leader. What was one of his deepest hesitations to becoming a Chassidic leader? What important innovations did he come up with? Is there a way to document his success as a leader? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

131

#147 - R' Shnuer Zalman - Ascension to Leadership

Jul 12, 2023

51:43

In this episode we look at the process of R Shnuer Zalman of Liozna becoming the founder of what is called today Chabad Chassidus. When did R Shneur Zalman actually found a Chassidus? Did this happen immediately after the petira of the Maggid of Mezritch? What caused R Shnuer Zalman to become a Chassidic Rebbe? How long of a process was it? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

132

#146 - AI - Challenges to Amailus & Society

Jul 6, 2023

1:08:06

In this episode we take a different look at the way AI is different from human intelligence and how this creates a challenge for us at a very basic level. We also look at how AI is affecting the economy and office work and how this will probably affect productivity. We conclude by examining one of the key issues here in terms of our attitude to AI and how this fits into the greater picture of Avodas Hashem. 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

133

#145 - AI - Understanding the Depth of the Challenge

Jul 2, 2023

1:04:46

In this episode, we look at how the advances in AI will affect us in a deep way. Is there any ways that AI has similarity to kishuf? One of AI’s greatest strengths is its ability to produce a clear and convincing presentation. How will this ability complicate life? How is this related to the basic core definition of what defines man as man? We also look at how a clear presentation without deep understanding of an issue can lead to deep distortion of understanding the issue. And the classic example of this is understanding Dovid!! 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

134

#144 - AI & Human Accomplishment

Jun 22, 2023

57:03

Podcast Sponsored by Otzar HaChochma 30% OFF Summer Sale! Click here! In this episode we take another look why many are deeply unsettled by AI. We also look at the key differences between AI and Human Intelligence. How does Aristotle define the ultimate Human Accomplishment? How did the Rambam modify this concept? What is the ultimate goal of Human ability and accomplishment? Can AI play any significant part 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

135

#143 - Understanding Reaction to AI & ChatGPT

Jun 15, 2023

53:48

Podcast Sponsored by Otzar HaChochma 30% OFF Summer Sale! Click here! In this episode we look at the new innovation of AI, Chat GPT. Why do people feel threatened by this development? Does this have anything in common with the fear of nuclear warfare during the Cold War? How close to human intelligence is this? What is the very basic difference between this and human intelligence? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

136

#143 - Understanding Reaction to AI & ChatGPT

Jun 15, 2023

53:48

Podcast Sponsored by Otzar HaChochma 30% OFF Summer Sale!

137

#142 - R' Shnuer Zalman & The Shulchan Aruch HaRav

Jun 8, 2023

46:24

In this episode we look at one of R Shnuer Zalman’s most important accomplishments, writing his commentary on Shulchan Aruch. Why did he do this? Did this have any connection to the general machlokes between Chassidim and Misnagdim? What is the basic stylistic difference between R Shnuer Zalman’s Shulchan Aruch and the Vilna Gaon’s commentary on Shulchan Aruch? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

138

#141 - A Synopsis of the Sabbetian Background & R' Shnuer Zalman in Liozna

Jun 1, 2023

46:15

In this episode we take a quick look at the Sabbetian and Frankist movements and how this flavored the machlokes between the Chassidim and Misnagdim. We also look at R Shnuer Zalman’s move to Liozna. Why did he move? Is this connected to his becoming a Chassid? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

139

#140 - Sassoon Codex, Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk & R' Shnuer Zalman of Liadi Early Life

May 24, 2023

53:11

In this episode we look at the sale of the Sasson Codex and how this relates to how people view Tanach. We look at the end of R' Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk’s life and how he helped establish the modern Ashkenazi community in Israel. We also look R' Shnuer Zalman of Liadi’s early life. We also examine the issue of understanding Chassdic stories. We also examine the controversial Kherson Geniza stories. 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

140

#139 - Eichmann issues + Synopsis of Machlokes between Besht and Gra

May 18, 2023

55:05

In this episode we start by looking at the significance of the Eichmann capture and execution from a Torah perspective. We also examine the issue of the negotiations in March ‘44 between Eichmann and R Michoel Ber Weissmandl. We also look at the basic machlokes between the Besht and the Gra. What key issues were driving the machlokes? How does the issue of Tzimtzum affect the machlokes? Was one of the issues slanderous statements that were being said about Chassidim? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

141

#138 - Sassoon Codex Update, R' Elimelech Old Age & R' Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk Origins

May 11, 2023

50:34

In this episode we start with an update of the Sassoon Codex. We then look at the end of R Elimelech’s life. What happened between him and R Yaacov Yitzchok of Lanzhut? We start looking at R Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk. What’s the relationship between him and Chabad? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

142

#137 - R Elimelech’s Tzetil

May 4, 2023

46:58

In this episode we look at some of the key lessons of R Elimelech’s famed Tzetil Katan. How do we understand them in a practical sense? Can we blindly apply them to our lives? We also look at the issue of what R Elimelech’s father’s name was. 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

143

#136 - The Eichmann Trial

Apr 27, 2023

1:06:44

In this episode, we look at the world reaction to the Eichmann capture. How was it viewed at the time? How did the UN react to the Eichmann capture? We also look at the issue of the rights of the State of Israel to try Eichmann. Did the world accept Israel’s right to try Eichmann? Was there a change in attitude to this at later times? Was the State of Israel justified from a Torah perspective? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

144

#135 - The Eichmann Capture

Apr 17, 2023

1:12:29

In this episode we look at the Eichmann capture. What exact part did Eichmann play in the Holocaust? Why is he more clearly identified with the Holocaust than his boss Kaltenbrunner? What fatal errors did he make that lead to his capture? Why was he the one captured and not Mengele? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

145

#134 - The Sassoon Codex

Apr 14, 2023

1:09:18

In this episode we look at the importance of the Sassoon Codex. The Sassoon Codex is going to be auctioned by Sotheby’s May 16. The estimated opening bid is 30 million. What is a Codex? Who was Sassoon? Why is this book identified with him? What makes this sefer so important? Are there any new revelations that we can expect to see in this Codex? How do we understand the differences in learning in the time before the printing press? How rare were sefarim before 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

146

#133 - Relating to & Understanding Lessons of The Exodus

Mar 28, 2023

57:08

In this episode we look at the challenge of truly relating to The Exodus. Why are we so challenged? What can we do to deal with the challenge? What are the key lessons of the Exodus? What is the underlying issue that this illustrates? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

147

#132 Chassidus - Chassidus, Emunas Chachomim & Haskala

Mar 23, 2023

49:45

In this episode we look at some of the other key reasons that Chassidus had more success in countering Haskala than Hisnagdus. What is the difference in the way the Chassidim see their Rebbes and the way Rabanim were classically looked at. How did this change help Chassidus successfully counter Haskala? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

148

#131 Chassidus - Response to Haskalah

Mar 16, 2023

48:57

In this episode we look at the key reasons Chassidus was able to successfully counter the Haskala. What key innovation did Chassidus have that helped them counter Haskala? What is the difference between the way the Vilna Gaon responded to Haskala and the way Chassidus responded to Haskala? When donthe first mentions of Haskala in Chassidus occur? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

149

#130 - Chassidus and Haskala II - Background

Mar 9, 2023

52:22

In this episode we look at the well known statement that Chassidus had better response to Haskala than Hisnagdus. How many factors were there in Czarist Russia that contributed to a toxic sociological atmosphere? How do we understand the effects of the cultural milieu of Eastern European Jewry on basic levels of observance in the nineteenth century? 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

150

#129-Mishley & Psychology II - Chassidus & Haskala

Mar 2, 2023

51:12

In this episode we take another look at the proper place of Psychology in terms of Torah. We also briefly look at how some of the core challenges created by contemporary society. We start looking at the response of Chassidus to Haskala. It is commonly said that the Chassidim had a better response to Haskala than the Misnagdim. How factual is this statement? What factors do we have to look at to understanding 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. We are currently learning MISHLEY Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

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