Jewish History Uncensored

151

#116 - Kabbala, Chassidus & Spirituality

Dec 1, 2022

44:32

In this episode we take a quick look at the basic structure of Kabbala and the place of the Ari in Kabbala. We take a quick overview of what the Besht’s innovations in Kabbala and Avodas Hashem were. We also look how to define spirituality and what is the difference between the way Chassidus and Hisnagdus views spirituality. 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

152

#115 - Besht & Magid of Mezritch

Nov 24, 2022

50:12

In this episode we look at the challenge of being involved in conflict and the basic pattern of conflict. We take a quick look at the basic historical outline of the events of the Besht and Magid of Mezritch. When did they live? Who were their primary talmidim? Why is the Magid of Mezritch considered the Besht’s primary student? 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

153

#114 Jewish History & Jewish Historians

Nov 17, 2022

38:05

In this episode we look at one of the other challenges in understanding Jewish History, the Jewish Historians. The early Jewish Historians were either of German background or Marxist background. This generally speaking created clear cultural or political attitude that was usually projected onto their work. 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

154

#113 - Jewish History & Historical Objectivity

Nov 13, 2022

50:54

In this episode we look at the basic challenge of Historical objectivity. We also look at the specific challenge of objectivity in Jewish History. Are there any factors that specifically complicate the challenge of objectivity in Jewish History? 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

155

#112 - R Kook on Spinoza & the Besht

Nov 3, 2022

52:32

In this episode we look at the famed statement of R Kook that there is a relationship between Spinoza’s pantheistic ideas and the Besht’s ideas. How do we understand this? Does this fit in to the classic way the Besht’s ideas are understood? We also look at the controversy about is it proper to allow someone to make a documentary in the synagogue that Spinoza was excommunicated in. 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

156

#111 - National Identity, Spinoza & Zionism

Oct 27, 2022

51:40

In this episode we take a deeper look at the relationship between National Identity and Religion. How was this classically understood in the world? We also look at how this specifically applies to the Jews. How long did it take for Spinoza’s plea for tolerance to become accepted? How did this affect the Jews in Europe? Ben Gurion and other Zionist thinkers claimed to be inspired by Spinoza. How much is there in common between them? Did Ben Gurion’s policy with the religious and charedi have to do with Spinoza’s plea for tolerance? 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

157

#110 - Spinoza, Toleration & National Identity

Oct 20, 2022

53:53

In this episode we look at one of Spinoza’s most important historical contributions, his appeal for religious tolerance. Spinoza was the first major figure to call for religious tolerance. This eventually evolved into separation of Church and State. How did this change the way people understand national identity? Is there any natural connection between religion and National identity? 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

158

#109 - Determinism and Tefilah

Oct 13, 2022

59:44

In this episode we conclude looking at Spinoza’s philosophy of Determinism, and the Torah response to this idea. One of the broad life phenomenon that reflects man’s free will is the quest for the morality and moral perfection. How broad is this phenomenon? One of the other places we see man’s free will is via prayer, and the basic challenge of having proper intention when praying. What is the basic structure of having proper intentions? Are there parts of Shemone Esray that are more important to have intention? 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

159

#108 - Determinism & Justice

Sep 28, 2022

59:44

In this episode we continue looking at the basic flaws in Spinoza’s philosophy of determinism. One of the key examples of deep and complicated Divine Providence is from The Battle of Britain. We also look at the very deep phenomenon of Drive for Justice. How did Spinoza see this issue? Is the quest for Justice a psychological phenomenon? Or is it deeper rooted than 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

160

#107 - Rosh HaShana - Divine Justice & The Queen

Sep 22, 2022

51:48

In this week’s episode we look at the basic structure of Rosh HaShana. What is the basic structure of the Divine Judgement on Rosh HaShana? We also look at some of the most important lessons from the life of Elizabeth II. Was there any level of power that she had? What was the most important principle guiding her public life? Is there anything for us to 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. We are currently learning Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

161

#106 - Einstein and Determinism

Sep 15, 2022

1:02:13

In this episode we take a deeper look at Determinism and why Einstein was specifically attracted to this philosophy. We also take a deeper look at the Torah perspective on this issue. We also look at the phenomenon of the Fragility of Human History and how this should affect the philosophy of Determinism. 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

162

#105 - National Identity, Einstein & Determinism

Sep 8, 2022

57:08

In this episode we look at the conundrum of assimilated Jews and national identity. How much was this a factor in Einstein’s life? How much was Einstein challenged professionally by his being Jewish? How did he react to this? We start looking at one of the key reasons Einstein was attracted to Spinoza’s philosophy, Spinoza’s approach of determinism. Is there a difference between why Einstein held of this philosophy and why Spinoza held of this 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. We are currently learning Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

163

#104 - Rationalism, Spinoza & Einstein

Sep 1, 2022

55:38

Spinoza and modern philosophy claims to be rational. How do we define rationalism from a Torah perspective? What was the Rambam’s approach to this issue? Einstein quite explicitly said that he was influenced by Spinoza. Is there any significant difference between Einstein’s cultural milieu and Spinoza’s? We take a quick look at Einstein’s life to properly understand 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

164

#103-Spinoza’s Legacy - Secularism

Aug 25, 2022

52:22

In this episode we look at one of Spinoza’s key legacies, creation of a secular world. The contemporary world in a cultural fashion is thoroughly secular. What was Spinoza’s key conceptual idea that brought about this change? We also briefly look at some of Spinoza’s spiritual fruit, Biblical Criticism. How pertinent is this issue today? Why was this once a major 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

165

#102 - Avoda Zara 101

Aug 18, 2022

56:04

In this episode we take a careful look at the phenomenon of Avoda Zara. What was Avoda Zara? Is the classic translation of Avoda Zara as idol worship accurate? Was there any basic logic to Avoda Zara, or was it rank superstition? Is there a historical connection between the decline of Avoda Zara and the rise of modern 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

166

#101 - Spinoza & Dibukim

Aug 11, 2022

59:33

In this episode we take a more deeper look at the issues that Spinoza raised about authorship in Tanach. How would this fit into Jewish History? What basic flaw does this have from the broader picture of Jewish History? We also look at the crisis of Emuna which has clearly existed for at least one hundred years. In order to have a better understanding of this we take a careful look at the famed story of the Chafetz Chaim and the dibbuk. Did all of those involved see the story as authentic? Should one use this story in terms of Emuna? 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

167

#100 - Tisha B’Av and The Highest of Places

Aug 3, 2022

1:08:17

In this episode we look at how we react to Tisha B’Av. How are we supposed to react to the Churban? Is there anything constructive and positive to do about this? Is going up to Har haBayis a proper response? What should our attitude be towards Har haBayis? What would the ideal policy be for the State of Israel about the Har haBayis? 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

168

#99 - Spinoza and Ibn Ezra - Authorship of the Torah

Jul 28, 2022

53:30

In this episode we take a closer look at Spinoza’s claims about the Ibn Ezra. What was the Ibn Ezra’s attitude to Chazal? How does the Ibn Ezra demonstrate the existence and substantialness of the Oral Torah. How does this relate to Spinoza’s theories about the Torah? What was Spinoza’s theory about authorship of the Torah? What are the clear flaws in this theory? 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

169

#98 - Spinoza and Biblical Criticism

Jul 21, 2022

59:05

In this episode we look at some of Spinoza’s key questions on the authenticity of Tanach. How original were his questions? How much before Spinoza should we assume that these questions were being raised? Do Chazal deal with any of these questions? How should this affect how we view these style questions? We also look at the claim that the Ibn Ezra is the source for the opinion that Moshe isn’t the sole author of the Torah. We closely examine the, ‘secret of the twelve’. 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

170

#97 - Spinoza’s Great Mistake

Jul 14, 2022

49:20

In this episode we take a closer look at one of Spinoza’s most fundamental mistakes. Spinoza criticized Tanach because he wasn’t able to apply Euclidean style logic to the narrative of Tanach. This however is a deep philosophical error. There is an area of Tanach that has mathematical style rules. However most of Tanach and drashos Chazal use a different form of logic. Why is this true? What can we learn about the way the Torah sees the world from this phenomenon? 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

171

#96 - Response to Heresy - Spinoza’s Tanach Problem

Jul 7, 2022

46:05

In this episode we look at the issue of how to respond to heresy. How has this issue been dealt with traditionally? What type of response is appropriate? Who came up with the argument that faith is a matter of the heart? 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 MISHLEI. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

172

#95 - Heresy, Jewish identity, & Spinoza’s First Published Work

Jun 30, 2022

46:36

In this week’s episode we take a deeper look at why the Rambam’s opinion about defining heresy should be considered the most definitive one. We also take a deeper look at the issue of Jewish identity and how it applies today. We also start to look at Spinoza’s first printed work, the Theological Political Treatise. Spinoza was aware of the danger of printing the treatise. Did he precautionary moves accomplish what he wanted to accomplish? 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

173

#94 - Spinoza, Shabtai Tzvi, and Atheism

Jun 23, 2022

43:08

In this episode we take a deeper look at the issue of Spinoza’s Jewish identity. Spinoza claimed not to be Jewish. What can we learn about this issue from his reaction to the Shabtai Tzvi story? We also look at how Spinoza reacted to the accusations of atheism. How did he react to this? What can we learn from his reaction? 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

174

#93 - Spinoza in Rijnsburg & Voorburg

Jun 16, 2022

41:10

In this episode we start by reviewing the basic outline of Spinoza’s life until this point. We look at his stay in Rijnsburg and his relationship with DeVries. We also look at Spinoza’s next step, his move to Voorsburg. We also look at how his colleagues viewed his statement that he didn’t consider himself to be Jewish. 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

175

#92 - Printing of Shas

Jun 9, 2022

50:01

In this episode we look at one of the most important historical events, the printing of Shas. When were the first volumes of Shas printed? Where were they printed? How long did it take for the entirety of Shas to be printed? Why did it take so long for the entirety of Shas to be printed? When did the text of Shas become standardized? How do we relate to the different textual variations of Shas? 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

176

#91 - Roe vs Wade - A Torah Perspective

Jun 2, 2022

1:00:04

In this episode we look at how to relate the Torah’s understanding of abortion to the current debate in American society about abortion. Is it possible to say that Torah is pro choice? What can we learn about the basic fabric of contemporary society from the way these events are unfolding? 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

177

#90 - The Challenge of Focus

May 26, 2022

42:53

In this episode we take a deeper look at why there is a deeper challenge of focus in contemporary society. Why does contemporary society generally ignore any discussion of ultimate human accomplishment. What are the main factors in gaining human accomplishment? How deeply has contemporary society been affected in this issue? Similarly, we also discuss why it is important to specifically study Spinoza and his historical legacy. We also discuss the phenomenon of generational trauma. 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

178

#89 - Understanding Human Accomplishment

May 18, 2022

51:27

In this episode we look at the ultimate philosophical quest, understanding what is man and what is ultimate human accomplishment. How did the classic Philosophers understand this? Did Descartes and Spinoza’s revolutionary changes to Philosophy change this issue? What do contemporary thinkers say about this topic? How does the Torah deal with 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

179

#88 - The Philosophical Challenge of Understanding Reality

May 12, 2022

48:29

In this episode we take a deeper look at the proper context of Cartesian Philosophy. We also examine why Enlightenment Philosophers were so challenged by determining reality. How have things changed today? What is the Torah perspective on 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 SHOFTIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

180

#87 - Descartes and Spinoza

May 5, 2022

51:52

In this episode we look at the most critical contextual factor in understanding Spinoza’s legacy. There is broad consensus that modern philosophy starts with Rene Descartes. What were Descartes' key ideas that completely changed the world of thought? Why was there so much opposition to Descartes? What part does Spinoza play in these epochal 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. We are currently learning SHIR HASHIRIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

181

#86 - Lessons of the Holocaust

Apr 28, 2022

1:04:36

In this episode we look at some of the keys lessons of the Holocaust. Why should we remember the Holocaust? Is remembering the Holocaust a way to prevent a future tragedy? Was the Holocaust the greatest tragedy in Jewish History? Is there something that makes the Holocaust a unique crime? 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 SHIR HASHIRIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

182

#85 - Understanding the War of Gog and Magog

Apr 18, 2022

44:14

The War of Gog and Magog is a topic that most people, even those with solid Torah knowledge are confused about. Who is Gog? Who or what is Magog? Why are people so confused about Gog and Magog? Does the Russian Ukrainian war that is happening have anything to do with it? How do we understand the statements attributed to the Vilna Gaon about Russia? 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 SHIR HASHIRIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

183

#84 - Lesson and Deeper Understanding of R’ Chaim Kanievsky זצ"ל

Apr 13, 2022

58:43

In this episode we look at how to practically implement the lessons of Rav Chaim Kanievsky’s legendary knowledge into our lives. What practical steps can we take that will get us on the way to knowing all of Torah. We also look at the legendary stories surrounding R Chaim Kanievsky זצ"ל. How do we understand them? 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. We are currently learning SHIR HASHIRIM. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

184

#83 - Understanding the Broad Impact of Rav Chaim Kanievsky זצ"ל

Apr 5, 2022

50:43

In this episode we look at Rav Chaim זצ״ל and his broad appeal to all segments of Jewry in Israel. What was special about R Chaim? Why were so many parts of the Jewish World able to appreciate the loss? When was the last time this 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

185

#82 - The True Significance of Philosophy

Mar 31, 2022

42:43

In this episode we look at the deeper significance of the changes in how our world looks at Philosophy. How much effort does the educated world out into Philosophy? What can we learn from this? What does this tell us about mankind in a general way. We also look at Spinoza’s major step after leaving the Jewish community learning Latin. Why was it necessary for him to learn Latin? 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

186

#81 - Philosophy and Science

Mar 23, 2022

48:51

In this episode we look at what was motivating Spinoza to his major life decision. We also examine the difference between how the term philosophy was understood in Spinoza’s times and how it is understood today? What was the original meaning of the term? When was the distinction made between philosophy and science? We also examine what Spinoza did after he was ejected from the Jewish community. The episode starts with a short appreciation of R Chaim Kanievsky. 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

187

#80 - Lessons of the Spinozian Legacy

Mar 16, 2022

44:01

In this episode we look at why Spinoza’s philosophy affected the Western world so deeply. We examine the fundamental differences between the way Judaism and Christianity respond to questions. And similarly we will examine the deep fundamental differences between the way Judaism and Christianity see their interaction with general culture. How long has Judaism considered it’s basic tenets to have been debated? 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 Shoftim. Click here to join! Access the Megillas Esther archives here. For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

188

#79 - Understanding the Russian Ukrainian Conflict

Mar 10, 2022

47:37

In this episode we look at the Russian Ukrainian crisis. Why are we so shocked by this event? How much of an anomaly is it historically? What important lessons can we learn from this conflict? How does this fit in with the general pattern of man’s behavior in this world? 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 MEGILLAS ESTHER. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

189

#78 - The Spinoza Cherem II - The Intellectual Background

Mar 3, 2022

42:59

In this episode, we look more carefully at some of the key evidence the Beis Din had about Spinoza. What can we learn from the type of evidence about the details of the Cherem? Were the statements attributed to Spinoza ones that one would say casually? We also start looking at the intellectual background of the times, and where Spinoza’s ideas originated 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. We are currently learning MEGILLAS ESTHER. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

190

#77 - The Spinoza Cherem

Feb 24, 2022

51:17

In this episode we closely look at the details of the Cherem that the Amsterdam community put on Baruch Spinoza. What is the halachic definition of a Cherem? What part of the Cherem process does shofar blowing play? Are curses an integral part of the Cherem process? What made the Spinoza Cherem more serious? Is it possible that cups of blood were used in the Spinoza Cherem? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

191

#76 - The Search for Perfection and Chumras

Feb 17, 2022

49:13

In this episode we look at humanity’s search for perfection and how this expresses itself in the world. Where does this very deep human drive come from? What are we supposed to do with this deep human drive? What key tools do we need to use to properly focus this basic drive? We also look at chumras. What is a chumra? How does one accurately translate chumra into English? When should one integrate a chumra into one’s 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

192

#75 - Emunas Chachamim and Spinoza’s Cherem I

Feb 10, 2022

44:18

In this episode we look at how Spinoza’s level of Jewish education effected his ability to properly understand Chazal. We take a look at the different levels of Emunas Chachamim. We start looking at the cherem that the community of Amsterdam put on Spinoza. How common was it for the community to issue a cherem? What was different about the cherem that they issued against Spinoza? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

193

#74 - Spinoza’s Jewish Education

Feb 3, 2022

44:46

In this episode we look at what level of Jewish education Spinoza got to. Did Spinoza get to the level of understanding how to read and analyze Shas? Did he have any contact with Rabbi Menashe ben Israel? We also take a look at Rabbi Menashe ben Israel’s major accomplishments. What can we learn about the general cultural milieu from Rabbi Menashe ben Israel’s significant dialogues with non Jewish 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. We are currently learning YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

194

#73 - Spinoza’s Youth and Jewish Education in Amsterdam

Jan 27, 2022

46:55

In this episode we look at the Jewish Educational system in Amsterdam in the times of Spinoza. The Yeshiva had a system of six grades from the age of seven until twenty one. How does this correspond to modern educational systems? We also examine the issue of did Spinoza remember his birth mother, who died when he was six? How much of an influence should this have had on him? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

195

#72 - Spinoza’s Complicated Family Situation

Jan 20, 2022

46:31

This episode is dedicated in honor of Yeshiva Torat Shraga. In this episode we look at the deep compilations of Spinoza’s family. Spinoza’s mother died when he was six years old, and his father remarried when he was eight years old. Who was Spinoza’s step mother? What was her background? Is there any reason to believe she had significant influence on him? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS

196

#71 - De Costa vs Cherniokov - Spinoza’s Family

Jan 12, 2022

45:59

This episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת חיה בת אלכסנדר On the occasion of her Yahrzeit י שבט In this episode we look at how one should Halachically classify the different types of suicide. Is there any time that suicide is allowed? Was Adam Cherniakow, head of the Warsaw Judenradt allowed to commit suicide? We start looking at Spinoza’s family. Where was his father born? Where was his mother born? What part did his father play in the Jewish Community of Amsterdam? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY:

197

#70 - Uriel de Costa - The Tragic End

Jan 6, 2022

46:35

In this episode we look at the conclusion of Uriel de Costa’s life. After writing his books against Judaism and religion, De Costa eventually attempted to rejoin the Jewish Community. The community demanded that he agree to being publicly lashed. Why was such a severe punishment done by the community? What effect did this have on De Costa? How did De Costa view his life efforts? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY:

198

#69 - Uriel de Costa III and R' Yehuda Aryeh de Modena

Dec 30, 2021

49:31

In this episode we continue looking at the tragic story of Uriel de Costa. De Costa moved to Hamburg where he wrote two controversial books about his position on Rabbinic authority and immortality of the soul. We look at how the community responded. R' Yehuda Aryeh de Modena also responded. R Yehuda Aryeh de Modena is a very important historical figure. We take a quick look at his important historical contributions, including his sefer Aryeh Noham that investigated the authenticity of the Zohar. 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY:

199

#68 - Uriel de Costa II

Dec 23, 2021

40:51

In this episode we continue looking at the tragic story of Uriel De Costa. Some time after De Costa moved to Amsterdam and reverted to Judaism, he became disenchanted with the Rabbinic Judaism that was being practiced. He claimed to be shocked by this discovery. How should he look at his claims? Are there good reasons to believe that these claims are a later exaggeration? 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 YEHOSHUA. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY:

200

#67 - Understanding What We See As Reality, Uriel De Costa I

Dec 16, 2021

51:58

In this episode there is more response about the Yeshiva Curriculum issues. We look at the very important issue of how to see when a society looks at an issue as reality. How does this effect us? What can we learn from this phenomenon? We also start looking at Uriel De Costa. De Costa was of Portuguese Jewish descent and his tragic life in a way was a precursor to Spinoza. 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 YIRMIYAHU. Click here to join! For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at [email protected] PRODUCED BY:

Jewish History Uncensored

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