Jewish History Uncensored

151

#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

152

#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

153

#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

154

#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

155

#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

156

#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

157

#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

158

#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

159

#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

160

#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

161

#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

162

#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

163

#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

164

#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

165

#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

166

#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

167

#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

168

#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

169

#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

170

#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

171

#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

172

#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

173

#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

174

#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

175

#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

176

#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

177

#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

178

#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

179

#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

180

#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

181

#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

182

#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

183

#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

184

#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

185

#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

186

#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

187

#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

188

#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

189

#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

190

#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

191

#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

192

#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

193

#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

194

#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

195

#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

196

#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

197

#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

198

#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

199

#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

200

#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

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