Jewish History Uncensored

101

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

102

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

103

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

104

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

105

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

106

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

107

#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

108

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

109

#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

110

#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

111

#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

112

#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

113

#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

114

#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

115

#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

116

#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

117

#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

118

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

119

#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

120

#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

121

#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

122

#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

123

#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

124

#143 - Understanding Reaction to AI & ChatGPT

Jun 15, 2023

53:48

Podcast Sponsored by Otzar HaChochma 30% OFF Summer Sale!

125

#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

126

#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

127

#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

128

#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

129

#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

130

#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

131

#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

132

#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

133

#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

134

#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

135

#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

136

#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

137

#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

138

#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

139

#128 - Mishley, Psychology & Torah

Feb 23, 2023

53:26

In this episode we look at the overlap between Mishley and Psychology. How much overlap is there? Does classic academia address the overlap? How do we view this from a Torah perspective? What are the key differences between Mishley and Psychology? 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

#127 - The Challenge of Rationalism - Vilna Gaon’s Response

Feb 16, 2023

55:24

In this episode we look at more of the Vilna Gaon’s response to rationalistic thought. Should we completely avoid rational thought? Is there a place that the rational approach is absolutely necessary? Is there a difference between how the Vilna Gaon addresses these issues and how the classics address 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. 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

#126 - Haskala and Enlightenment - The Vilna Gaon’s Response

Feb 9, 2023

52:15

In this episode we take a closer look at early Jewish reaction to the Enlightenment. We also look at a couple of the places that the Vilna Gaon seems to be referring to one of the key Enlightenment thinkers, Rousseau. We similarly look at a place where the Vilna Gaon clearly refers to the early Maakilim. 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

#125 - Haskala and Enlightenment - Early Response

Feb 2, 2023

56:32

In this episode we look at the general context of early response to Enlightenment and Haskala. When did response to Enlightenment begin? What is the basic Torah framework for proper response to challenges? How much of an issue is Haskala 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. 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

#124 - Prophecy and Levels of Prophecy

Jan 26, 2023

49:16

In this week’s episode we take a more careful look at the relationship between Prophecy and the Mikdash. Is there anyway to show the two are related? What do we learn from this about the basic structure of Prophecy? Similarly, we examine the relationship between Nach and Kabbala. 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

#123 - The Rambam and Prophecy

Jan 19, 2023

51:23

In this episode we look at the place the Rambam has in terms of understanding Prophecy. How important is Proohecy in Torah? How widely accepted are the Rambam’s opinions about Prophecy? Does the general issue of rationalists vs mysticists affect 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

145

#122 - The Rambam Controversy

Jan 12, 2023

52:36

In this episode we look at the source of the controversy surrounding the Rambam. Was the Rambam the most controversial person in Jewish History? What made the Rambam so controversial? Is there a simple rule about how to properly understand Agadita and Midrashim? 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

#121 - R Elimelech’s Tzetil

Jan 5, 2023

47:14

In this episode we look at more of R Elimelech’s teachings. One of R Elimelech’s most important works was his Tzetil and Customs. What is the difference between the Tzetil and the Customs? What is the difference between how Chassidus understands the ultimate Torah accomplishment and how the Vilna Gaon understands it? What was R Elimelech’s contribution in this controversy? What was R' Elimelech’s stance on learning Kabbala? Is there a connection between going to a Mikva and Shabtai Tzvi? 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

#120 R' Elimelech’s Teachings & his Galus

Dec 29, 2022

47:23

In this episode we take a closer look at why R Elimelech is identified with Lizhensk. We also look at when the Galitziner identity came into being. We look at how Chassidus changes the concept of a Tzaddik, and specifically R Elimelech’s contributions to this. We also take another look at R Elimelech’s famed exile and what how it differed from the classic mechanism of exile. 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

#119 - Chanukah & the Challenge of Commitment

Dec 22, 2022

1:02:57

In this episode we look at the key challenges that started in the Chanuka confrontation between the Greeks and the Jews. What is the difference between the conflict with the Greeks and previous ones? When did debate between the Greeks and the Jews begin? How is the contemporary culturally based challenges connected to the Greek discovery of science? 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

#118 - Understanding Hisnagdus & R' Elimelech’s Exile

Dec 15, 2022

50:51

In this episode we look at how to determine a new idea’s validity in greater Torah terms. We also look at the basic types of opposition to Chassidus. How long was Chassidus considered by its opponents to be some form of Sabbatianism? We also examine the basic changes in communal structure in the last two hundred years. We also look at R Elimelech’s famed exile and some of the legendary stories that happened. 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

#117 - R Elimelech of Lizenshk - Youth & How He Became a Chassid

Dec 8, 2022

46:37

In this episode we look at R Elimelech of Lizenshk early life. How did someone from the Tiktin area become the primary leader of Chassidus in Galicia? How long did he live in Lizenshk? How did he become a Chassid? We also look at why the Besht made happiness an integral part of Chassidus. We also at the basic historical outline of the Schindler story. 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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