Jewish History Soundbites

301

Great American Jewish Cities #9: Seattle

Jun 30, 2020

46:56

Out in the Pacific Northwest, Seattle boasts a rich Jewish past. As the last stop coming from the east, the first stop when arriving from Vladivostok and a destination during the Klondike gold rush, Seattle's Jewish community grew immensely at the turn of the century. Rabbinical leaders like Rabbi Baruch & Rebbetzin Hinda Shapiro, Rabbi Solomon Maimon, Rav Chaim Yaakov Levin, even a short stint of Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky plus many more. Personalities like Samuel, Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz, along with native sons Rabbis Nisson Wolpin, Yissachar Frand, Marc Angel and others. We share the story of Seattle’s Business Leaders, Jewish Music Legends and some regular folks. Seattle emerges as a diverse and fascinating story. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

302

All the Kings Men: Great Leaders in the Court of Ger

Jun 27, 2020

38:13

In the Ger empire of Chassidic Poland, the Rebbes of the Alter family - the Chiddushei Harim, Sfas Emes & Imrei Emes - achieved renown for their leadership. Other members of the family served in crucial roles in the chassidus, the Rabbinate and general leadership of Polish Jewry through stable as well as challenging times. Their names haven't been enshrined on the pages of history as much as their more famous family members. Their achievements however, were no less significant. The Chiddushei Harim's son - and father of the Sfas Emes - was a unique individual Rav Avraham Mordechai Alter who passed away in his father's lifetime. The sons of the Sfas Emes - Rav Nechemia Alter a Rosh Yeshiva in Yerushalayim & Rabbi in Lodz, Rav Mendel Alter of Pabianice as Rosh Yeshiva in Ger and later one of the leading Rabbis in Poland & the immortal Rav Moshe Betzalel who was one of the leading lights of the Ger court. Then comes the sons in law, Rav Chanoch Tzvi Levin - the Bendiner Rov - a primary leader of interwar Polish Jewry, along with his son the famed Agudah politician Itche Meir Levin, and Rav Yaakov Meir Biderman of the Warsaw Rabbinate. And of course there are more, as we explore this most aristocratic family of pre war European Jewry. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

303

Great American Jewish Cities #8: Montreal

Jun 23, 2020

54:16

In the snowy Canadian north, a large Jewish community flourishes. Unique in many ways, Montreal boasts an old and well established infrastructure, with a diverse Jewish population that includes Chassidim, Modern Orthodox, Sephardic, Yeshiva community and more. Great personalities left their imprint through the decades. Rabbis like Rav Yudel Rosenberg, Rav Pinchas Hirschsprung, Rav Mottel Weinberg, the Tosher Rebbe, the Pupa Rov and many more. Other personages such as Leonard Cohen and Charles Bronfman made their mark in other ways. With the French language becoming dominant, it led to an exodus of certain parts of the community, yet brought an influx of Moroccan Jews. With lots of Hungarian background, French language and even some Alter Mirrers, Montreal has quite a story to tell. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

304

From Refugee to Royalty: Rav Shneur & Rebbitzin Rishel Kotler

Jun 20, 2020

39:43

Among the great builders of Torah of the twentieth century were Rav Shneur (1918-1982) & Rebbetzin Rishel Kotler (1923-2015). At times overshadowed by his illustrious father Rav Aharon, Rav Shneur's accomplishments were wide ranging and impressive in their own right. As a young refugee, he lived by his grandfather Rav Isser Zalman Meltzer in Yerushalayim, arriving in the United States after the war. With his characteristic simplicity and modesty, he'd go on to preside over the exponential growth of the Lakewood Yeshiva following his father's passing. This was in addition to his myriad communal responsibilities, along with his own initiatives such as the opening of a string of Kollels across the fruited plain. The Friedman family was among the most prominent Torah and mussar families first in Memel and later in Kovna. Young Rishel would be exposed to the leading Rabbinical scholars of the day through her parents hospitality. Fleeing to Shanghai while her fiancee was on the other side of the world, they finally married after the war. Surviving her husband by more than three decades, she oversaw the growth and expansion of the Yeshiva, while monitoring its activities behind the scenes. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

305

Making of a Godol Stories Part II

Jun 17, 2020

36:08

Here's another installment of enjoyable stories from the book Making of a Godol by Rabbi Nosson Kamenetsky along with related stories. We'll travel through pre war Europe and hear about how the Kovna Kollel was founded, the Yeshivas of Minsk, Rav Meir Shapiro's visit to Litvish Yeshivas, challenges of secularization, Rav Tzvi Hirsh Rabinowitz of Kovna, how Rav Chaim Brisker's sefer came to be printed and more. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

306

The Prophet of Doom & The Prophetess of Comfort: The Story of the Leibowitz Siblings

Jun 13, 2020

34:07

Two siblings who were high achievers and shared similar life paths. Yet the two couldn't be more different. Nechama Leibowitz (1905-1997), with all of her academic positions, saw herself as simply a teacher. One who strove to encourage the study of Tanach with its diverse range of commentary. Coupled with her love for the Hebrew language and her desire to teach and reach others wherever they may be, made her a beloved figure and teacher for generations of students. Her elder brother Yeshayahu(1903-1994), having grown in the same home in Riga, took his academic career early on in Germany towards a host of sciences - organic chemistry, biochemistry, neuro physiology and others. What gained him renown however was his radical views in philosophy, political philosophy and the philosophy of religion. Fearless in promulgating provocative ideas, he was wont to stir controversy in many circles for his political and religious beliefs. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

307

Great American Jewish Cities #7: Pittsburgh

Jun 10, 2020

45:34

With the growth of the steel industry, Pittsburgh became home to a sizable and prestigious Jewish community. While the Pittsburgh Platform of 1885 gave the city an association with Reform, and Jews had an impact on the local sports scene, immigrants from Eastern Europe along with some impressive Rabbinical and communal leaders laid a solid foundation for the traditional Jewish community. Early Rabbis like Rav Moshe Shimon Sivitz, Rav Aharon Ashinsky and Rav Wolf Leiter, and later luminaries like Rav Sholom Posner the chinuch pioneer, the Pittsburgher Rebbes, Rabbi Bernard Poupko and many others. Nearby Mckeesport had a sizable Jewish community as well, with Rabbi Yitzchak Chinn leading the Gemilas Chesed shul for over a half a century. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

308

The History of The Volozhin Yeshiva Part 5: Closing Time

Jun 7, 2020

45:24

Several factors came together which forced the great Yeshiva of Volozhin to close its doors on a cold winter day in 1892. The Yeshiva had been under close scrutiny from the Czarist government for decades, with various attempts at meddling with the Yeshiva's internal affairs, including attempts at implementing a general studies curriculum for Volozhin. The aging Netziv, seeking a successor who would help alleviate the crushing financial burden of the Yeshiva, brought in his son Rav Chaim Berlin as his replacement. The ensuing turmoil as a result of the succession dispute, led the Czarist officials to the conclusion that anarchy reigned within the Yeshiva and Volozhin must be closed. Although later attempts were made to reopen the legendary doors of Volozhin, the glory days were over for the "mother of the modern Yeshiva". This final installment is part 5 and not part 6 as was mistakenly said on the recording. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

309

Washington Heights Part II: Rav Schachter Remembers

Jun 4, 2020

39:12

At the northern tip of Manhattan, Washington Heights is a city neighborhood while distant enough from the hustle and bustle of Midtown. Already with a Jewish presence at the turn of the century, it rose to prominence with the arrival of Yeshiva College/RIETS uptown from the Lower East Side in 1929. This was immediately followed in the 1930's with the huge influx of German Jewish refugees fleeing Nazism. A small group, together with the newly arrived Rav Dr. Joseph Breuer, founded K'hal Adath Jeshurun thus firmly establishing the neighborhoods reputation as "Frankfurt on the Hudson". Here we'll explore the varied institutions of this Kehilla, the rise and growth of the YU campus, as well some of the additional shuls and shtibels of the area. We will encounter personalities like Rav Breur, Rav Shimon Schwab, Dr. Raphael Moller, Rav Revel, Rav Soloveitchik, Rav Hershel and Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter, Henry Kissinger, Lou Gherig and many more. Traveling through time and hearing about about the schools, kashrus, the eruv, shiurim, vacation, migration trends and other exciting anecdotes of Washington Heights. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

310

Great American Jewish Cities #6 Washington Heights Part I

Jun 4, 2020

38:24

At the northern tip of Manhattan, Washington Heights is a city neighborhood, while distant enough from the hustle and bustle of Midtown. Already with a Jewish presence at the turn of the century, it rose to prominence with the arrival of Yeshiva College/RIETS uptown from the Lower East Side in 1929. This was immediately followed in the 1930's with the huge influx of German Jewish refugees fleeing Nazism. A small group, together with the newly arrived Rav Dr. Joseph Breuer, founded K'hal Adath Jeshurun thus firmly establishing the neighborhoods reputation as "Frankfurt on the Hudson". Here we'll explore the varied institutions of this Kehilla, the rise and growth of the YU campus, as well some of the additional shuls and shtibels of the area. We will encounter personalities like Rav Breur, Rav Shimon Schwab, Dr. Raphael Moller, Rav Revel, Rav Soloveitchik, Rav Hershel and Rebbetzin Shoshana Schachter, Henry Kissinger, Lou Gherig and many more. Traveling through time and hearing about about the schools, kashrus, the eruv, shiurim, vacation, migration trends and other exciting anecdotes of Washington Heights. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

311

Making of a Godol Stories Part I

May 31, 2020

31:25

Meticulously researched and 1,400 pages long, the monumental work "Making of a Godol", contains a wealth of stories about great Jewish leaders of yesteryear. In honor the first yahrtzeit of the author Rav Nosson Kamenetsky, whose decades long research produced this masterpiece, a selection of choice anecdotes from within its pages are presented here. From the great city of Minsk to the hallowed halls of Volozhin Yeshiva to the small shtetls of Lithuania, from Rav Boruch Ber Leibowitz to Rav Yisrael Salanter and Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky and many more. The tapestry of Jewish life that goes on display through these timeless stories, can serve to continually educate and inspire. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

312

Of Bombs & Money: The Desperate Attempts to Save Hungarian Jewry

May 28, 2020

35:02

With most of European Jewry decimated and the Red Army advancing in the east, the Hungarian Jewish community remained the last great center of Jewish life on the continent. Following the German invasion of Hungary in March 1944, senior SS officers were dispatched to Budapest to organize the deportations, which were to commence immediately and with terrifying speed. Legendary rescue activist Rabbi Michael Ber Weissmandel had years of experience at various rescue attempts by dealing directly with the Nazis from occupied Slovakia. He, together with his fellow members of the Working Group such as Gisi Fleischman, now turned to make a last ditch attempt at saving Hungarian Jewry. He did this in three ways: 1. The time tested efforts at bribery and ransom. This included closely following the negotiations that took place in Budapest between the Nazis and the Relief & Rescue Committee. 2. Beseeching the Allied Powers to bomb the crematorium at Auschwitz and the railways leading there. 3. Warning Hungarian Jewry what was in store for them. Though largely unsuccessful, his valiant efforts at rescue are a testimony to the greatness of this heroic individual and to the story of that tragic period of time. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

313

Great American Jewish Cities #5: Chicago

May 26, 2020

51:36

When Jews blew into the Windy City, a great community in the Midwest began to rise. There may have been a World Series drought, but there was no drought of Jewish life and Torah growth in Chicago over the decades. What commenced with the massive immigration to the West Side - Maxwell Street, later Lawndale - in the 19th and early 20th centuries, solidified with the building of great shuls and educational institutions in the ensuing decades. Hebrew Theological College, Telz, Arie Crown, Vietzener Cheder, Lakewood Kollel and so many more. We'll meet personalities like Rav Chaim Tzvi Rubinstein, Rabbi Oscar Fasman, Rav Chaim Kreiswirth, the Novominsker Rebbe, Rav Tzvi Hirsh Meisels, Rav Aharon Soloveitchik, Rav Chaim Zimmerman, Rabbi Ephraim Epstein and many other Chicago personalities. From gourmet food to the Jewish mafia to changing neighborhoods, the story of Jewish Chicago is a major factor in the development of the American Jewish community. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

314

From Shanghai to East New York: Stories of Bais Hatalmud

May 23, 2020

38:03

When a senior group of the lions of the Mir got together in the late 1940's, they formed one of the most unique creations in the annals of the Yeshiva movement. Bais Hatalmud evokes memories of individuals like Rav Leib Malin, Rav Chaim Visoker, Rav Shmuel Charkover and so many other greats from the "Alteh Mir". A place where pre war mussar themes were taken literally and seriously, where the Yeshiva as a place of purity and of an intense atmosphere of growth was held as the ultimate ideal - the "Tzuras Hayeshiva". We'll take a peak into a humble Bais Medrash in East New York (and later Bensonhurst) where Bais Hatalmud's stories can continue to inspire till this very day. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

315

A Bittersweet Victory: The 1948 Battle for Jerusalem

May 21, 2020

28:12

While Yom Yerushalayim is a day that primarily focuses on the Six Day War and the capture of Yerushalayim, it leads one to wonder how it was lost in the first place. For that we must return to the battle of Jerusalem in the spring of 1948. With the British preparing to leave, the Haganah and the Arab Legion were preparing to fight for the city. It's a match between David Shaltiel, the German born Haganah commander, against his adversary Abdullah Tal. With Yerushalayim under siege, civilians had wait on line for water, and the food shortage led to starvation. The hope for Jewish sovereignty in the Holy City was soon dashed, as the last residents of the Jewish Quarter into Jordanian captivity. An ugly divide of barbed wire, would divide the ancient city for the 19 years to come. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

316

Great American Jewish Cities #4: Cincinnati

May 19, 2020

40:07

The oldest Jewish community west of the Allegheny's, Cincinnati wasn't just the home of the Big Red Machine. In the 19th century, Isaac Mayer Wise and Max Lilienthal made Cincinnati the center for the emerging movement of Reform Judaism in the United States. This was culminated in the infamous "Trefa Banquet" incident in 1883. Later on it became a center of Orthodoxy with Rabbis like Rav Avraham Lesser and Rav Leizer Silver pioneering efforts in kashrus, education and leadership positions in the American Rabbinic world. A place of many Jewish firsts on the American Jewish scene, Cincinnati was also home to some of the first kosher food products like Manischewitz machine matza. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

317

Wisdom & Dignity: The Life and Lessons of Rav Moshe Shapiro

May 16, 2020

34:21

Few can match the depth, breadth and wisdom that Rav Moshe Shapiro (1935-2017) had and shared through many venues to decades of students. As someone who absorbed from many of the greatest Torah scholars and thinkers in his youth, he proceeded to create a synthesis of it all that resulted in his own innovative approach. A great teacher of Torah, Kabbalist, kiruv pioneer and more, he influenced individuals across the spectrum of Jewish society. With a deep appreciation of the wellsprings of the past, he would often travel to Europe to the Jewish communities of old, enabling others to connect to the roots of Jewish identity. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

318

Great American Jewish Cities #3: Crown Heights

May 12, 2020

29:41

One of the many Brooklyn neighborhoods that was a center of diverse Jewish life for decades, Crown Heights is also unique in many ways. From its pre war days and the first JCC in America, to the influx of Chassidic Jews in the post war, it boasted a variety of shuls, shtiebels and schools. Bobov, Skulen, Novominsk, Radzin, Yeshiva of Eastern Parkway and Kollel Gur Aryeh were just some of the many groups and institutions who had a presence in the bustling neighborhood. With the arrival of the Rayatz of Lubavitch in the United States in 1940, Chabad headquarters were eventually established at the legendary address of 770 Eastern Parkway. With the "white flight" of the 1960's in full swing, the Rebbe insisted that his Chassidim stay put. As the courageous holdouts, Chabad would come to dominate Jewish life in Crown Heights and eventually come to be synonymous with the neighborhood itself. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

319

The Crown of Aleppo

May 9, 2020

31:06

The oldest complete Tanach in the world, the Aleppo Codex, known as the "Keter", was and still is revered as a national treasure. As a source and guide for the text and vowelization of Tanach, it was one of the most important ancient texts of the Jewish People. For nearly six centuries it was carefully safeguarded by the Aleppo Jewish community. Following a series of riots at the end of 1947, the Keter seemingly disappeared, resurfacing 11 years later through a daring smuggling operation to the State of Israel. As it was turned over to then President Yitzchak Ben Tzvi, it was discovered that nearly half of the manuscript was missing. Was it simply lost? Was it stolen? By whom? Why was it handed over to the State for safekeeping? Some of the mystery surrounding the Keter remains with us till this very day. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

320

Great American Jewish Cities #2: Baltimore

May 5, 2020

42:33

One of the most storied Jewish communities in the United States, Baltimore has a fair amount of "firsts". First ordained Orthodox Rabbi to serve in the US - Rabbi Joseph Rice, first Day School outside of NY and first kosher Hot Dog stand at a Major League Baseball stadium. Home to famous institutions like Ner Israel and Talmudical Academy - Chafetz Chaim, and famous individuals like Rav Yaakov Yitzchak Ruderman, Rabbi Herman Neuberger and Rabbi Moshe Heineman, Baltimore has made its on American Jewish life. At the same time, less famous aspects of the city's past come to life as well, such as the pioneering girls education with the Bais Yaakov of Rabbi Binyamin Steinberg, the Glen Ave Synagogue, and personalities like Rav Michoel Forshlager and Rav Yitzchak Sternhell. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

321

A Kingdom Restored: Belz in the Holy Land

May 2, 2020

23:49

The rebuilt Belz Chassidic community of today is a story of miracles and change. From almost total decimation during the war, they sustained an additional blow with the passing of the previous Rebbe, Rav Aharon Rokeach of Belz in 1957. It seemed that the glory days of this great dynasty were done. And yet it was rebuilt. This miraculous rebirth was accompanied by an atmosphere of innovation, in an otherwise traditional and conservative community. Elements of change in education, political affiliation, employment and even music, coupled with the able and strong leadership of the current Rebbe Rav Yissachar Dov Rokeach, enabled Belz once again become a large and influential Chassidic court. Listen to the prequel to this episode: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/e/the-great-escape-the-belzer-rebbe-and-the-farewell-drasha-in-budapest/ Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

322

The Center of it All: Great Rabbis in Warsaw

Apr 30, 2020

31:59

Capital of the Jewish world, Warsaw played a central role in all aspects of Jewish life - politically, culturally, socially and of course religiously. Great rabbinical figures served in official capacities in the Warsaw Rabbinate, in the city's educational institutions, in unofficial positions as residents of the city, and of course as visitors to the country's capital. One of the prominent Rabbinic families that served generations of the Warsaw Jewish community was the Zilberbergs. The most famous of whom was Rav Naftali Vershover (1848-1930), who was close with all the great leaders of his day and served the needs of Polish Jewry. Through their story, we'll encounter the places and people of Jewish Warsaw including the famed Warsaw Mesivta, as well as meeting the Bais Halevi, two Gerrer Rebbes, the Chafetz Chaim, Rav Chaim Brisker, Rav Meir Don Plotzki - the Kli Chemda, and many more. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

323

Great American Jewish Cities #1: Far Rockaway

Apr 27, 2020

37:06

With this new series, Jewish History Soundbites seeks to explore the growth of various Jewish communities both within the great urban centers and across the golden plain. Our pilot episode touches on the community of Far Rockaway, lying somewhere in between Queens and Long Island. This resort area which had a Jewish presence even prior to the War, began a growth spurt along with the so called "white flight" to the suburbs in the two decades following the war. Personalities like Rabbis Zelig Fortman, Ralph Pelcovitz, Emanuel Rackman, Nachman Bulman, Shlomo Freifeld, and ybl"ch Rabbi Yechiel Perr, and many more, planted the seeds of a vibrant Orthodox community. Institutions like the White Shul, HILI, Shor Yoshuv, Young Israel, Yeshiva of Far Rockaway, even the Mir made a showing, and later on Yeshivas Darchei Torah. Events from a bygone era like the reception for Rav Kook or the Kovna Rov, the Agudas Harabonim conventions at the kosher hotels all come together to paint a picture of this special Jewish town. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

324

A Pioneering Scholar: The Travels & Works of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Kasher

Apr 25, 2020

20:06

One of the most prolific writers in the Jewish world of recent times, Rav Menachem Mendel Kasher (1895-1983), was quite an enigmatic character as well. As a prominent Gerrer Chussid in Warsaw, he was active in the Agudas Yisroel, and had a position in the famous Mesivta of Warsaw. With his move to Eretz Yisroel in the 1920's, he founded and headed the first Gerrer Yeshiva there in Yerushalayim. His primary focus soon turned towards his voluminous writings, which he devoted his life to writing and publishing. A man of strong opinions, he seemed to get mired in controversy wherever he turned. From the eruv in Manhattan to the International Dateline, to his embracing of Messianic Zionism, creativity and a sense of pioneering marked much of his writing and endeavors. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

325

King of Galicia: The Divrei Chaim of Sanz

Apr 21, 2020

27:37

Leading Halachic authority, founder of an influential Chassidic dynasty and a master of simplicity, charity and care for his followers, are all apt descriptions of Rav Chaim Halberstam of Sanz (1797-1876) - or Tzanz as he insisted his followers refer to the town. His influence, popularity and admiration of his contemporaries were almost unmatched in recent history. Perhaps a no less facet of his leadership, was his foray into the relentless struggle against encroachments of modernity into traditional Jewish life. A bastion of conservatism, his influence went beyond the borders of Galicia into Hungary, and beyond his own lifetime into current times. This included perceived threats from both within and without. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

326

My Father The Netziv: The Extraordinary Life of Rabbi Meir Bar-Ilan

Apr 18, 2020

25:37

As the youngest child of the Netziv, Rav Meir Bar Ilan (1880-1949) grew up in the world of Volozhin. With the closing of the Yeshiva and the loss of his father while he was still a child, he moved on to further horizons. From Telz to Berlin where he commenced his literary career in the city that bore his name. He was a rising leader of the Mizrachi and in that capacity he moved to New York. As an activist in both Mizrachi Zionist endeavors, as well as Jewish education and other communal efforts, he left his mark in America. This was followed by his move to Israel - then Palestine - in 1926. Once again assuming a leadership role, he remained in the public sphere in politics, economics and Rabbinical. Among his many initiatives was spearheading the monumental Talmudic Encyclopedia project. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

327

A Citadel of Torah: The Presidents, Personalities & Roshei Yeshiva of RIETS/YU Part II

Apr 13, 2020

31:23

In this second installment, we'll examine another few personalities who were associated with the growth of Torah in the United States through their involvement with RIETS/YU. An unparalleled genius, Rav Chaim Heller (1879-1960) served in several capacities, among which he gave classes at RIETS in his later years. He devoted the better part of his scholarly investment towards a refutation of Bible criticism, and wrote extensively on the topic. Perhaps no other name is more synonymous with RIETS than Rav Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, or simply "the Rav" (1903-1993). Succeeding his father's position in 1941, commenced a decades long endeavor of teaching thousands of students and generations of Rabbis. His influence resonates within the institution and beyond till this very day. An earlier builder of of RIETS was the almost forgotten Rabbi Dr. Hillel Hakohen Klein (1849-1926). An architect of Jewish life in New York, he spearheaded many initiatives, projects and institutions, leaving his stamp on almost every area of American traditional life. Among his positions was the presidency of RIETS around the turn of the century. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

328

Kaput or Kapust: Chabad Splits Up

Apr 11, 2020

27:21

The Chassidic dynasty is called Chabad, but it's home for close to a century was the Russian town of Lubavitch. It reached a peak of influence under the able leadership of the Tzemach Tzedek, Rav Menachem Mendel (1789-1866). Following his passing, while his youngest son the Maharash continued in Lubavitch, various other Chabad courts were founded by his siblings. Settling in towns rich in Chabad history, a court was founded in both Lyady and in Nizhyn. There was even one with a Chernobyl flavor in Avrutch. The largest and most influential of the offshoots was in Kapust. Lasting more than a half a century, the Kapust Rebbes took a leading role both within Chassidus and the external struggles facing Russian Jewry. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

329

The Heritage of a Leader: The Story of Novominsk in America

Apr 7, 2020

25:22

This special tribute to the Novominsker Rebbe has been generously sponsored liluy nishmas the Rebbe Rabbeinu יעקב בן נחום מרדכי by Duvi Silberstein For all Back office for Nursing Home Billing, contact Care Network Health at via phone/text 908-305-0595 With the tragic passing of Rav Yaakov Perlow (1931-2020), the Novominsker Rebbe and head of Agudas Yisrael, this episode is a tribute to his memory. He was someone who seemed to be comfortable anywhere, as a Rosh Yeshiva in both Breuer's in Washington Heights and in Hebrew Theological College in Chicago and in his own Yeshiva in Boro Park since the 1980's. As a Chassidishe Rebbe, a scion of both Novominsk and the legacy of Kotzk, and as an active leader of the larger Jewish community through his leadership of Agudas Yisrael. Where did this all come from? Here we explore a bit of the wellsprings which raised him. The dynasty of Novominsk, the milieu of Chassidic Warsaw, his Kotzk roots, and his father's move to the US. Through this context, we gain an insight into the greatness of who he was and what he accomplished. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

330

A Tzadik For All Of Time: The Story of Rav Aryeh Levin

Apr 4, 2020

27:06

Few people were as beloved by all who knew him as was Rav Aryeh Levin (1885-1969). Titled "The Tzadik of Jerusalem", "the Rabbi of the Prisoners", "Mashgiach of Eitz Chaim" or simply Reb Aryeh, his warmth and influence traversed the whole spectrum of society. With a simplicity and sincerity, he cared for each individual irrespective of class or background. The stories in this regard are simply limitless, and here are presented a few anecdotal gems about this remarkable individual. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

331

Fighters for Tradition: Profiles in the Hungarian Rabbinate Part II

Apr 1, 2020

27:39

With the growth of the Hungarian Jewish community in the 18th century, Rabbis from both Germany and Poland took up positions in the burgeoning communities. With the changing times, each generation of Rabbinical leadership experienced successive spurts of growth as well as the challenges of the modern era. The Hungarian story presents a unique set of challenges as they developed in this region, with the legacy of the Chasam Sofer's Orthodoxy, the growth of the Chassidim and the eventual dominance of the less traditional Neolog community in Hungarian Jewish life. One of the important Rabbinic dynasties of that era was that of the Levv family. From Rav Elozor Levv (1758-1837), known by the sefer he authored Shemen Rokeach, through several generations of his descendants, they came to represent the vicissitudes of the time period. Rav Yirmiyahu Levv (1811-1874) was one of the leading Hungarian Rabbis of the 19th century. Confronting both the growing Chassidic community in Hungary, as well as the threat to Orthodoxy posed by the Neologs, he eventually led the faction of Hungarian Jewry known as the "Status Quo" communities. By focusing on these specific individuals, it can serve as a prism for relating the story of the entire community. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

332

Fighters for Tradition: Profiles in the Hungarian Rabbinate Part I

Mar 31, 2020

27:25

With the growth of the Hungarian Jewish community in the 18th century, Rabbis from both Germany and Poland took up positions in the burgeoning communities. With the changing times, each generation of Rabbinical leadership experienced successive spurts of growth as well as the challenges of the modern era. The Hungarian story presents a unique set of challenges as they developed in this region, with the legacy of the Chasam Sofer's Orthodoxy, the growth of the Chassidim and the eventual dominance of the less traditional Neolog community in Hungarian Jewish life. One of the important Rabbinic dynasties of that era was that of the Levv family. From Rav Elozor Levv (1758-1837), known by the sefer he authored Shemen Rokeach, through several generations of his descendants, they came to represent the vicissitudes of the time period. Rav Yirmiyahu Levv (1811-1874) was one of the leading Hungarian Rabbis of the 19th century. Confronting both the growing Chassidic community in Hungary, as well as the threat to Orthodoxy posed by the Neologs, he eventually led the faction of Hungarian Jewry known as the "Status Quo" communities. By focusing on these specific individuals, it can serve as a prism for relating the story of the entire community. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

333

Through Fire & Water: The Story of the Neturei Karta

Mar 28, 2020

27:22

In 1935 several young activists broke ranks with the Agudas Yisroel in Yerushalayim. This group soon came to be called the Neturei Karta. Espousing an extreme anti Zionist stance, the Neturei Karta leadership had it's fair share of colorful characters over the years. Rav Amram Blau was famous, less so the likes of Rav Leibaleh Weissfish or Rav Dov Sokolovsky. Each one added a dimension to the activities of the Neturei Karta, leading it through external disputes even with the Eidah Hachareidis, and internal ones within the Neturei Karta itself. Not limited to the alleyways of Meah Shearim, their influence was felt in the Vizhnitz court in Bnei Brak, in the United States and beyond. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

334

Mossad Operations Part I: Yossele Schumacher & Operation Wrath of G-d

Mar 26, 2020

24:40

With its daring operations and continuous mystique, the Israeli Mossad intelligence agency has quite a history. With the founding of the Mossad, it was tasked with securing Israeli intelligence beyond Israel's borders. Nazi hunting and spying in nearby Arab countries were just some of the Mossad operations in the early years. When Yossele Shuchmacher was kidnapped by his grandfather and smuggled out of the country, the affair became a divisive factor within the secular and religious in Israeli society. The Mossad was put on the case, finally locating him in Brooklyn after an exhaustive search. Following the terrible tragedy at the 1972 Olympics, with the murder of 11 Israeli athletes in the infamous Munich Massacre, the Mossad was tasked with revenge. Operation Wrath of G-d was to destroy the Black September terrorist organization which was the perpetrator of the attacks. This was largely successful and most of the principle operatives and terrorists were eliminated. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

335

Wisest of Men: Stories of Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky

Mar 23, 2020

29:43

Known by his colleagues as the "wise man of the Jewish People", Rav Yaakov Kamenetsky (1891-1986) was one of the important Rabbinical leaders of the 20th century. Though raised in the environment of Minsk and Slabodka and leading a Rabbinic career in rural Lithuania, his influence was primarily in the post war world of the United States. Arriving in the US when his bid for the Vilkomir Rabbinate fell through, he immediately began to lead, guide and advise the American Jewish community as a whole and to individuals who sought his counsel. From the storekeepers in Toronto, to the non Jewish children in Monsey, from the podium of the Agudah convention to the party politics in Israel, Rav Yaakov always had an novel perspective and insight for any situation. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

336

When Shabbos Was Sunday: The International Dateline Controversy

Mar 21, 2020

32:32

There are times when a Halachic, legalistic discussion is played out on the stage of history. Such was the dispute in regards to the positioning of the Halachic International Dateline. What conceivably was a theoretical discussion, or at most relevant to the few Jewish travelers to the Far East, became a reality for thousands of refugees who were stranded in Kobe, Japan in 1941. The question of when to observe Shabbos divided the refugee community, with kiddush and havdala being recited simultaneously by different individuals. With Yom Kippur around the corner, a larger question loomed. Two days of shabbos was manageable, but fasting for two days straight was not an exciting prospect. It was a question that was heard around the world. And the answers came in from all sides. The dateline controversy would leave an indelible mark on the memory that refugees had from their sojourn in Kobe, Japan. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

337

A Rebbe With a Geshmak: Remembering Rav Elya Baruch Finkel

Mar 19, 2020

31:07

Rav Elya Baruch Finkel (1947-2008) was one of the most memorable personalities of the Mir in Yerushalayim. From the clarity of his shiurim, the warmth he exuded to all who knew him, to his phenomenal sense of humor that marked every interaction with him. He was both an aristocrat in his familial background, yet accessible and down to earth. Able to impart sage advice to those who sought it, while also able to enjoy a leisurely conversation regaling his listeners with stories from the past. A short compendium of personal recollections of this great man. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

338

Ahoy Yid! Stories of Jewish Pirates and Explorers

Mar 18, 2020

29:22

With the expulsion of the Jews from the Iberian Peninsula at the end of the 15th Century, the Sephardic diaspora spread to the far corners of the globe searching for a place to settle. Many reached the New World during the Age of Discovery, and they played important roles in both the exploration itself as well as settlement. Jews, either hidden or openly Jewish, became merchants and were active in trade. There were even all Jewish colonies such as the one in Suriname. In the 17th century, Jews found another vocation- piracy. Joining forces with Muslims in the Mediterranean and with the Dutch and British in Caribbean, Jews sought revenge against the Spanish Empire. Some became prominent and successful pirates. Jamaica became one of the earliest British possessions in the new world thanks to the Jews. And the island became a center for Jewish merchants as well as pirates. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

339

Lively Graves: Pilgrimages to Lizhensk & Kivrei Tzadikim

Mar 14, 2020

30:04

Visiting and praying at the burial places of Tzadikim is one of the more visible and recognizable distinctive contributions of Chasidic practice on Jewish life. A cultural practice that has developed over the history of the movement, it is seen as a way to connect as well as an opportunity for prayer. One of the more famous destinations has been to grave site of the Rebbe Reb Meilach, the Noam Elimelech of Lizhensk (1717-1787). Glorified as second to the Baal Shem Tov himself, his influence on the movement is almost unparalleled. Following his death, his students began the custom of paying respects at his grave on the yahrtzeit of his death on 21 Adar. This has remained a popular visit till this very day. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

340

The History of Volozhin Yeshiva Part IV: Talmudists, Zionists and The Golden Age

Mar 12, 2020

54:35

With the Netziv solidifying his control, the Yeshiva entered it's Golden Age. Attracting the best and the brightest from across the Pale of Settlement, the Yeshiva was producing the Rabbinical greats of the Jewish world. With Rav Chaim Brisker's appointment in 1881 as the assistant Rosh Yeshiva, he raised the scholarship in the Yeshiva to a whole new level. Around the year, Volozhin continued with a regular routine of intensive study, with the Yamim Tovim offering a short respite with their accompanying excitement. Alongside these accomplishments, under currents were brewing as well. Secret societies were formed promulgating early forms of Zionism. Haskala literature became popular and got passed around by the students of the Yeshiva. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

341

A Word From Our Listeners Part I

Mar 8, 2020

20:48

In this unique episode in honor of Purim, we'll explore the best of the feedback to Jewish History Soundbites. -The Unknown Talmidim of Rav Shayale -Who to vote for in the WZO elections? -The greatest Maagidei Shiurim of our generation? -How does general history cross with Jewish history? -What type of biographies are recommended? -Did immigrants toss their Tefillin at Ellis Island? -Is there a real story behind Chassidic Rebbes who have become segulas? This and more, as the exciting comments come to the fore and are carefully analyzed for relevance and Purim entertainment. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

342

Torah Pioneers: The Origins of Bnei Akiva & Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh

Mar 6, 2020

23:08

As religious Zionism was forging an identity which strove for a synthesis of a traditional life with Zionist ideals, institutions began to be built which expressed this identity. Youth groups such as the Shomer Hadati in Poland and Bnei Akiva in the Land of Israel, led to the building of educational facilities. Kfar Haroeh was followed by the opening of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh. Rav Chaim Yaakov Goldwicht- graduate of Etz Chaim, Slabodka, and close with the Brisker Rov and Chazon Ish among others - becomes the pioneering Rosh Yeshiva of the fledgling institution. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

343

The History of The Volozhin Yeshiva Part III: The War Of Succession

Mar 4, 2020

42:35

With the passing of Rav Itzele of Volozhin in 1849, his son in law Rav Yitzchak Eliezer Freid became the titular head of the Volozhin Yeshiva. His reign was short-lived with his death in 1953. What then commenced was a long, protracted process in deciding the succession at the helm of the Yeshiva. Many contenders rose for both the primary Rosh Yeshiva position as well as the assistant Rosh Yeshiva position. Candidates included the Bais Halevi, Rav Yehoshua Heshel Levin and members of the Freid family. Ultimately, the Netziv (1816 -1893) prevailed, and he became the great leader of Volozhin whose name became synonymous with the institution. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

344

The Holy Scholars of Sochatchov

Feb 29, 2020

30:24

The Sochatchov Chassidic dynasty holds a special place in Jewish history. As flag bearers of the legacy of Kotzk, they were the elite of Polish Chassidus. In addition, led by the Rebbes of the dynasty, they strove to create a scholarly atmosphere through the building of elite Yeshivas as part of the chassidus. The Avnei Nezer, the Shem Mishmuel and Rav Dovid of Sochatchov were leaders of Polish Jewry and great teachers of Torah at the same time. Their influence reached far beyond the confines of their own followers. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

345

Gangsters, Racketeers & Jewish Activists: Tales of the Jewish Mafia Part II

Feb 26, 2020

23:33

Another collection of stories about the Jewish Mob in the early 20th century. From the streets of Newark emerged another Jewish gang under the able leadership of "Longy" Zwillman and Doc Stacher. Meyer Lansky continued to build up a gambling empire in Las Vegas and Cuba, though he encountered some difficulties with the Flamingo Hotel. Zwillman, Lansky, Siegel and others, were proud to take on pro Nazi groups that sprung up in America in the 1930's. Breaking up rallies and bloodying a few noses, they stood up for the Jewish people during dark times. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

346

To Save A World: The Storied Life of Rav Avraham Kalmanowitz Part II

Feb 24, 2020

22:18

With the arrival of the war, Rav Kalmanowitz was dispatched to the United States in an attempt to raise funds for the Mir Yeshiva who were now refugees in Lithuania, having escaped from Soviet occupied Eastern Poland. This evolved into an attempt to assist other Yeshivas and their Rabbis, and later on in the war extended to overall rescue activities within the framework of Vaad Hatzalah. A dynamic rescue activist, he spearheaded many of the rescue activities during those trying times. Following the rebuilding of the Mir in the US after the war, he then turned to a new phase of activism - both physical and spiritual - within the Sfardic communities in Morocco, Syria & Egypt. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

347

A Prince Among Men: The Storied Life of Rav Avraham Kalmanowitz Part I

Feb 22, 2020

21:02

With seemingly endless energy, few have matched the communal activism of Rav Avraham Kalmanowitz (1891-1964). From his days in Slabodka, to a young Rabbi in Rakov and then Tiktin, his activities were never limited in scope. He became the fundraiser and president of the Mir Yeshiva in Poland and managed to find time to assist refugees from the Soviet Union, participate in the activities of Agudas Yisroel, and also assist Rav Chaim Ozer Grodzinski on the Vaad Hayeshivas. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

348

Mussar Movements: The Sojourns of Rav Yisroel Salanter and the Mussar Greats

Feb 19, 2020

36:19

In honor of the yahrtzeit of the Mussar Movement's founder Rabbi Yisrael Salanter (1809-1883), an interesting characteristic stands out about him and many of his followers- they were travelers. Both he and some of his greatest students, spent a large portion of their lives traversing the length and breadth of Europe and even beyond, some making it to Israel. Some moved by choice, and others as a result of circumstance. But the journeys produced an excitement and a story. Where did they go? Why were they constantly on the move? What does it tell us about the Mussar Movement? As we follow them on their journey, we'll observe their exploits, challenges and achievements. Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

349

Tales of the Jewish Mafia Part I: "Ain’t Gonna Kill On Saturday"

Feb 17, 2020

30:53

As first generation Americans growing up in immigrant neighborhoods, some Jews turned towards organized crime and joined the Mob. While maintaining close ties to their families, communities and even Jewish tradition, they led lives that included bootlegging during Prohibition, gambling rackets, theft and even murder. Their lives were a paradox - criminals who were proud Jews. This collection of stories is about heroes and villains. It will bring us to the World Series, alcohol smuggling, the streets of Brooklyn and Sing Sing Prison. We'll meet Arnold Rothstein - the architect of modern organized crime, Mayer Lansky - the brains and one of the big bosses of the Mafia, Abe Reles - one of the contract killers of Murder Inc. and many more. Part 2- https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/e/gangsters-racketeers-jewish-activists-tales-of-the-jewish-mafia-part-ii/ Part 3- https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/e/gangster-on-the-roof-tales-of-the-jewish-mafia-part-iii/ Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]

350

Screaming From The Rooftops: The Fire of Kotzk

Feb 15, 2020

34:50

Few figures can match the excitement, intensity and mystique as expressed in the enigmatic personality of the Kotzker. So much has been written about Rav Menachem Mendel Morgenstern of Kotzk (1788-1859), and yet much remains shrouded in mystery until this very day. A demanding leader and uncompromising in his pursuit for truth, he got disappointed when his Chassidim weren't reaching the high ideals he set for them. His legendary sharp retorts contained the depth of his teachings. At times radical and at times misunderstood, the fire which he lit in Kotzk shines forth and provides warmth till this very day. Check out the sequel to this episode: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/e/those-who-know-dont-speak-the-story-of-the-kotzk-izhbitz-dispute/ Subscribe To Our Podcast on: PodBean: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/ Follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @Jsoundbites You can email Yehuda at [email protected]