Jewish History Soundbites

351

Here Comes Rav Beinush! Stories of the Mir Rosh Yeshiva Rav Beinush Finkel

Feb 12, 2020

38:00

Rav Binyamin Beinush Finkel (1913-1990) was one of the most colorful Roshei Yeshiva in recent times. A great talmid chacham who did everything to hide his greatness, he remains something of a mystery to even those who were close with him. At the same time, he was a lively and funny personality, and in many ways the ultimate people's person. Hiding himself and his deeds to an extreme, he also displayed a warmth and understanding for the common and simple folk whom he encountered. With so many facets to his personality, these anecdotes can perhaps paint a partial picture of this legendary and beloved Rosh Yeshiva, presented here in honor of his 30th yahrtzeit. 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]

352

The History Of The Volozhin Yeshiva Part II: The Rise To Fame

Feb 12, 2020

52:11

Under the watch of it's founder, the Volozhin rose to to prominence. Rav Chaim Volozhiner created a sophisticated system of fundraisers, who also spread the word about the Yeshiva and added to its prestige. He introduced innovations in both learning and organizational structure. Following his passing in 1821, his son R' Itzele (1780-1849) took over and it flourished under his watch. R' Itzele was also quite active in communal affairs, and in the 1840's was involved in a fascinating saga concerning Russian Jewry. When Dr. Max Lilienthal attempted a reform of Jewish education, he actually came down to Volozhin to meet with R' Itzele. Volozhin and it's heads now stood at the forefront of Jewish leadership in the Russian Empire. 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]

353

An Uncharted Path: The Story of Rav Baruch Rabinowitz of Munkatch

Feb 8, 2020

30:32

In the rebuilding of Chassidic courts in the post war era, the story of Munkatch is one of the more tragic ones. More of a human story than one of a dynasty, it revolves around the upheavals in the life of Rabbi Baruch Rabinowitz (1914-1997). As a successor to his famed father in law the Minchas Elozor of Munkatch, following the Holocaust he abdicated the throne. He also turned towards Zionism, which was a marked departure from the legacy of Munkatch. The story of his rescue activities during the war, coupled with his post war Rabbinic career is another facet of his life, which was otherwise dominated by the future of the Munkatch dynasty. Check out the episode on the Minchas Elazar: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/e/uncompromising-zealot-the-life-and-times-of-the-minchas-elazar/ 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]

354

Tales from the House of Rimanov

Feb 6, 2020

28:42

One of the father's of Chassidus, Rav Mendele of Rimanov had a central influence on the development of the movement in Poland, Galicia & Hungary. He displayed strong leadership, an emphasis on prayer and an endless love for his people. Succeeded by his assistant known to posterity as Rav Hirsh Meshares, who was one of the more unique personalities in the history of the movement. In the spirit Chassidus, we'll delve into some tales that bring the legend of Rimanov to life. 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]

355

Lion of the Mir: Memories of Rav Refael Shmuelevitz

Feb 3, 2020

34:56

As one of the last members of the "old school" style Rosh Yeshiva, Rav Refoel Shmuelevitz (1937-2016) was indeed a unique breed. Warm, personal and caring, he was also sharp and demanding in learning. Down to earth and cognizant of the world around him, he nevertheless occasionally expressed unconventional views. Unafraid to speak his mind and not subscribing to a specific pervasive ideology, he represented the old time aristocracy of Lithuanian Yeshiva world which had nurtured him. In honor of his yahrtzeit, we present some personal reminisces 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]

356

Stolin America: A Chassidic Dynasty In The New World

Feb 1, 2020

27:49

One of the oldest dynasties in the history of the Chassidic movement, was also one of the pioneers to strike roots on American shores. Karlin-Stolin - which also had one of the oldest Chassidic communities in the Land of Israel - was a unique group back in Europe as well. One of the sons of Rav Yisroel Perlow (1869-1921), (the "Yenuka" of Stolin), Rav Yaakov Chaim (c. 1897-1946) answered the call of the Karlin Chassidim in the United States and immigrated in 1924. A fatherly figure, he died childless while visiting his followers in Detroit. He was soon followed by his only surviving brother Rav Yochanan (1900-1955), who arrived in 1947. Between the two of them, the foundations of the rebuilding of Karlin-Stolin were laid in the new world. 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]

357

The History Of The Volozhin Yeshiva Part I: “The Mother Of All Yeshivas”

Jan 30, 2020

50:46

History has bestowed it with the title of "Mother of the Modern Yeshiva". The Yeshiva movement - from it's European antecedent to the current times - is seen to be a continuation of what was begun in Volozhin. What was Volozhin? Why is it considered a new beginning? Is it's perceived influence justified? An examination of the Jewish world at the time of the founding, as well as the development of the institution of the Yeshiva through history, is imperative to understanding the unique contribution that the Volozhin Yeshiva made in Jewish society. A full appreciation would be incomplete without relating the story of the founder - the great Rav Chaim Volozhiner (1749-1821). It was his vision and deeds that made it all a reality. 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]

358

The Times They are a Changin': The Illustrious Roots of Rabbi Joseph B Soloveitchik

Jan 28, 2020

30:33

Though Rabbi Moshe Soloveitchik (1879-1941) and his wife Pesha Feinstein (1880-1967) achieved renown as parents of Rabbi Yosef Dov Soloveitchik, they led quite interesting lives on their own merit as well. Born in Volozhin as a scion to the aristocracy of the Lithuanian Torah world, a merger was made with the Feinstein's, another member of the Rabbinic elite. Pesha had a dominant personality, and as a result their home became quite unique. After a Rabbinic career was cut short by the Bolshevik repression of religion, Rav Moshe experienced a stormy decade from all directions while residing in Warsaw. In dispute after dispute, he displayed a brilliant if iconoclastic image. In the late 1920's he assumed the position of Rosh Yeshiva at RIETS on the Lower East Side, a position he maintained till his passing. 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]

359

Drama In The Levant: The Story Of The Damascus Blood Libel

Jan 25, 2020

26:28

A landmark event in Jewish History of the 19th Century was the infamous Damascus Blood Libel of 1840. What seemed to be part of the distant past of the medieval era, was revived in a modern day conspiracy. Jewish leaders were arrested and tortured, and a great outpouring of fury ensued. Jewish leaders like Moses Montefiore and Adolphe Cremieux, converged on Egypt in an attempt to influence the regional ruler Muhammad Ali Pasha. Although the affair was resolved as a result of a direct British ultimatum, the saga would go down as a test of Jewish solidarity in modern 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]

360

While Six Million Perished: FDR, Stephen Wise & American Jewry

Jan 23, 2020

30:56

For the American Jewish community, President Roosevelt seemed almost Messianic. The New Deal was worshiped as the wave of the future, American Jews were overwhelmingly liberal - even Socialist - Democrats, and he seemed to be the only hope against the isolationist Republicans, for future intervention in the European War. In many ways, the American Jewish establishment, with Rabbi Stephen Wise at it's helm, felt that the President was beyond criticism. But was he?In the late 1930's, and even at certain stages of the war itself, a refugee crisis faced many Jews trapped in Europe. Was Roosevelt the man of the hour to ease immigration policy for these refugees? What went on throughout the War between the President of the United States and the Jewish People- both at home and abroad? 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]

361

The History of Telz Part II: From a Yeshiva...To a Movement

Jan 21, 2020

28:10

The interwar period saw a Golden Age for the Telz Yeshiva in Lithuania. Under the strong leadership of Rabbi Yosef Leib Bloch (1860-1930), the Yeshiva grew and spawned an entire empire of educational institutions. High Schools, girls schools, Teacher's Seminaries, Kollel and more were all part of the great Telz infrastructure. As a powerful speaker, R' Yosef Leib and later his son R' Avraham Yitzchak (1891-1941) played a role on the national level as a leader in the Agudas Yisroel. Telz developed a unique intellectual brand of Mussar, which was given over as "Shiurei Daas". In honor of the recent yahrtzeit of Rabbi Mordechai Gifter (1916-2001), one of the greatest products of the Telz Yeshiva, here's another installment about this immortal institution. Check out the history of Telz Yeshiva part I: https://jsoundbites.podbean.com/e/innovative-methods-rebellious-students-the-stormy-early-years-of-the-telz-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]

362

Aristocrats of Mussar: Tales from Kelm Part I

Jan 18, 2020

29:01

One of the most unique educational methodologies of character perfection in recent history, was the Talmud Torah of Kelm. With it's emphasis on orderliness, clarity and an intense pursuit towards perfection, Kelm became a legend in its own time. While it may be difficult to summarize the philosophy of Kelm, relating some anecdotes can be a fascinating journey into the inner world of Kelm. These stories are interesting, some of them entertaining, and all of them offer penetrating insight into the lives of those who were part of the world of Kelm. In honor of the yahrtzeit of one of the greatest products of the Kelm Yeshiva - Rabbi Eliyahu Eliezer Dessler (1892-1953) - here is a collection stories about this storied 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]

363

The Case For A Mamzer: Rav Shlomo Goren and the Langer Controversy

Jan 15, 2020

25:58

In the high strung divide between the religious and secular in the State of Israel, few stories express the point of conflict more than the "brother & sister" saga of the Langer children. Seemingly they were mamzerim and consequently unable to have a Jewish marriage. The question then arose if their father was a convert to Judaism or remained a non-Jew. The controversy spilled over from the confines of the Rabbinical court to public and even political discourse. Rabbi Shlomo Goren convened a new Bais Din and enabled them to marry. This brought the fury of the establishment Rabbis against Rabbi Goren, and the great controversy continued to boil for some 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]

364

Zionists, Messianists or Immigrants? The Talmidei Hagra & The Controversy of the Kol Hator

Jan 14, 2020

22:08

In 1947 a book was published in Jerusalem bearing the title "Kol Hator". It ascribed Messianic overtones to the immigration of a group of students of the Vilna Goan nearly two centuries earlier, with the accompanying claim that they were the original Zionists. The book itself was allegedly written by R Hillel Rivlin, one of those talmidim who came during that period. But was it? Who really wrote the book? What motivated the author? Why did the students of the Vilna Goan - and the earlier Chassidic Aliya for that matter - move to the land of Israel at the turn of the Nineteenth Century? Was there immigration a Messianic or Nationalistic endeavor? And most of all, how is that legacy a relevant story today in the tense polemics of both scholarly as well as public discourse? 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]

365

A Kindled Flame: The Life of Rav Yechiel Yaakov Weinberg Part I

Jan 11, 2020

26:48

Please Support the work of Jewish History Soundbites by rating us and writing a review for us on Apple Podcasts. Thank You!!! One of the most multi faceted Jewish personalities of the last century was the Seridei Aish, Rabbi Yechiel Yaakov Weinberg (1884-1966). A prodigy in Slabodka, who was embedded in the world of the Mussar movement, he later found himself in the Rabbinate in a small Lithuanian town. A complicated family situation eventually led him to leaving that position and moving west in both a literal and metaphorical sense. From the University of Giessen he moved on to a position in the Hildesheimer Rabbinical Seminary in Berlin. His story is reflective of the challenges faced by the thinking youth at the turn of the 20th century. The personality that he formed for himself is a unique expression in resolving that inner conflict. 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]

366

World War I & The Jews Part IV: From Devastation to Rehabilitation

Jan 9, 2020

46:58

The Bolshevik Revolution and it's aftermath wreaked havoc on the Jewish communities - both exiled and established - across the great expanse of the former Russian Empire. The Russian Civil War destroyed lives, property and entire communities. Following the establishment of Communist rule, Jewish religious, cultural and political life were quickly snuffed out. The Balfour Declaration hailed a new beginning for Jewish settlement in Palestine. This was followed by the Third Aliya which brought a new wave of immigration settle the land. The Old Yishuv had suffered greatly during the war, as the entire Chaluka system of funding had been completely cutoff. Finally, the American Jewish community emerged during and after the war with a new sense of identity and mission. Charitable projects on behalf of their brethren suffering from the ravages of war, started at the grassroots level. These eventually were dwarfed by massive philanthropic organizations such as the Central Relief and the Joint. The Jewish People emerged bruised and battered from the Great War, but were able to rebuild and flourish on an even larger scale than before. 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]

367

Rudolf's Rescue Scheme: Kastner & The Attempts To Save Hungarian Jewry

Jan 7, 2020

29:24

Asara B'Teves is known in Israel also as "Yom Hakadish Haklali", and is a day which the victims of the Holocaust are commemorated with the recital of Kaddish. When focusing on the attempted rescue efforts during the Holocaust, one of the most controversial sagas is undoubtedly that of the one known as the "Kastner Train". Rudolf Kastner, a Hungarian Zionist leader, attempted to save a trainload of Jews from the deportations to Auschwitz. Ultimately, through direct negotiations with the Nazis, a train with over 1,600 Jews were saved. In doing so, Kastner did not reveal to the Jewish masses about the impending deportations that were to commence. Had he done so, his train would not have been saved. What was the responsibility of a Jewish leader at the time? To warn the many or to save the few? Was his identity as a secular Zionist a catalyst for his actions? And the ultimate question which perhaps might never be answered: Was he a hero or a villain? 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]

368

It's All in the Family: The Curious Case of Mary Ben-Gurion

Jan 4, 2020

24:35

Amos Ben-Gurion was the son of David & Paula Ben-Gurion. While serving in the Jewish Brigade in the British Army during World War II, he was wounded and wound up in a Liverpool hospital. While there, he was taken care of by a nurse named Mary Callow. They eventually decided to get married despite the fact that Mary was Christian. There thus followed a sage of the attempted conversion of Mary to enable her to become Mary Ben Gurion. The conversion was eventually done by a German born American Reform Rabbi named Joachim Prinz, known for his activism in the Civil Rights Movement. 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]

369

A Father To His People: Stories of Rav Elchonon Wasserman

Jan 2, 2020

19:37

We follow up the Siyum Hashas with an unpublished episode from the archives of Jewish History Soundbites on Rav Elchonon Wasserman HY"D. While most accounts of this great man focus on his leadership and scholarship, here is a shift to his noble ways and beauty of his character. Let's follow Rav Elchonon on his worldwide travels and witness his interactions with people from all walks of life. 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]

370

The Siyum! From Feldafing To The World’s Most Famous Arena: The History of Daf Yomi Part III

Dec 31, 2019

29:20

The movement spread around Europe and even across the world. Upon each completion of a cycle, the custom began of celebrating the occasion with a communal Siyum Hashas. The association of the Daf Yomi as well as the personality of Rav Meir Shapiro with the Agudas Yisroel led to limited opposition in some circles. Rav Meir Shapiro envisioned however, that the Daf Yomi would rise above politics and be a unifier among the factions of the Jewish community. Each successive Siyum Hashas brought more innovation, ever larger numbers of participants and new venues. Tracing the development of the various Siyum Hashas's over the 20th century is a window into the growth of the Torah community over the century. From the early and modest Siyum Hashas celebrations, following the destruction of the majority of the participants in the Holocaust, to the massive gatherings in the last quarter of the 20th Century and early part of the 21st, the story of the Siyum Hashas is a chapter in the story of the Eternal People. 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]

371

A Visionary and a Dreamer: The History of Daf Yomi Part II

Dec 29, 2019

25:21

Commencing with his dramatic announcement in Vienna in the summer of 1923, Rav Meir Shapiro (1887-1933) dedicated vast energies to spreading the idea of the Daf Yomi program. He was a man of many talents, an innovator with boundless energy, charismatic, a fine and entertaining public speaker, an accomplished Talmudic scholar, a visionary, and most of all a relentless doer. Incredibly, his vision and action on behalf of the Daf Yomi was just one of a myriad of projects he initiated and carried out in his short life. Perhaps it was his most long lasting contribution though, and in the collective memory of the Jewish People, this is arguably his most enduring legacy. 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]

372

Old World Values in the Home of the Brave: Transplanting Chassidus on American Shores

Dec 26, 2019

51:29

Recorded LIVE at the historic Ridinker Shteibel on the Upper West Side of Manhattan on the 2nd Night of Chanukah, Jewish Historian Yehuda Geberer delves into the incredible rebirth of the Chassidic movement in North America. Learn about the great leaders and holy tzadikim who helped revive Chassidic life in a new world. 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]

373

Whose Idea Was It Anyways? The History of Daf Yomi Part I

Dec 23, 2019

25:10

The worldwide study of the Daf Yomi, culminating in the Siyum Hashas celebration, is synonymous with the name of the founder of the movement - Rav Meir Shapiro. After conceiving the idea as a young communal Rabbi, he presented it to the assembled delegates at the first Knessia of Agudas Yisroel in Vienna, in the summer of 1923. Was he the first - and only - one to have the idea? Was there precedent of such a study format in Jewish History? Were there others who promoted the study of the daily daf? If yes, what makes Rav Meir Shapiro's program unique? And why is he truly the originator of the Daf Yomi? 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]

374

A Rebbishe Rosh Yeshiva: The Story of Rav Yitzchok Hutner Part II

Dec 21, 2019

26:03

Commencing at Yeshivas Chaim Berlin while it was still in the Brownsville neighborhood of Brooklyn, Rav Hutner embarked on an illustrious career in Torah education. As the demographics of the neighborhood changed, the Yeshiva had brief stint in Far Rockaway before settling down in Flatbush, back in Brooklyn. Over the first couple of decades at the Yeshiva's helm, Rav Hutner solidified control over the Yeshiva, while imbuing it with his own unique flavor. Active in the public sphere as well, Rav Hutner took a leading role on many of the hot issues of the day. In his later years, he fulfilled his dream of returning to Israel and founding a Yeshiva there as well. 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]

375

WWI & The Jews Part III: Yeshivas on the Run & Turning the Tide of the War

Dec 19, 2019

49:56

As the Yeshivas headed into exile deep into the Russian interior, they attempted to assume their pre war functions as citadels of Torah study. With greatly shrunken student bodies and a lack of funding, these Yeshivas found themselves in an increasingly precarious situation. The year 1917 brought with it three major developments in the War, each of which had a major and direct impact on the Jewish People. The two revolutions in Russia - in February and November - toppled the Czar and ultimately brought the Bolsheviks to power. In April, the US Congress declared war on Germany, thus paving the way for the entry of American troops to turn the tide on the battlefield. Finally, in November, Great Britain issued the Balfour Declaration promising a National Home for the Jewish People in Palestine. 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]

376

More Than Just A Gadol: The Story of Rav Yitzchok Hutner Part I

Dec 17, 2019

28:35

One of the most multifaceted individuals in Torah leadership of the last century was R' Yitzchak Hutner. Arriving from Warsaw to Slabodka in the wake of World War I, he eventually followed the Yeshiva on it's sojourn in Chevron. During this time he enjoyed a close relationship with Rav Kook. Following a stint in University in Germany, he eventually made it across the Atlantic, where he obtained a position in Yeshivas Chaim Berlin in Brownsville. As a charismatic leader and scholar with penetrating depth, the diversity of his thought and teachings is almost unmatched in contemporary Rabbinic writing. 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]

377

Warring Brothers: The Opposition to the Chassidic Movement

Dec 14, 2019

38:53

With the upcoming holiday of Yud Tes Kislev coming up, it's worth examining the early opposition that the Chassidic movement faced at the early stages of the movement. One of the ironies of the organized opposition, was it's role in enhancing the divergent groups of Chassidim into a movement with common identity. With sporadic opposition rising in the early years, the opposition was raised a notch in 1772 with the first official proclamations of excommunication. This commenced a period of more than three decades of very active and occasionally violent opposition of the misnaggdim. The misnaggdim were led by the Vilna Goan who spearheaded the opposition. In the first decade of the 19th century, the active stage had passed and the misnaggdim changed gears to a more passive ideological phase. The Chassidic movement emerged from the opposition stronger, larger and with a more cohesive sense of identity and mission. 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]

378

Holy Beggars: The Chaluka System in the Old Yishuv

Dec 11, 2019

25:58

From the first arrival of the Chassidic group to Tverya in 1777, through the Aliya of the students of the Vilna Gaon in the early years of the 19th century, and right up until modern times, the Chaluka system was the lifeline of support for the Old Yishuv. How were the funds collected and distributed? What constituted the "Old Yishuv"? Under which criteria was one eligible for this financial support, and were those conditions met? How long did it last? What were some of the long term societal effects on the community of recipients, as well as on the community of donors back in Europe? Exploring the context of these questions and others will give a clearer understanding of a financial support system whose echoes remain 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]

379

A Rosh Yeshiva, A Kabbalist and A Nazir: The Inner Circle of Rav Kook

Dec 9, 2019

28:16

The Founding of the Merkaz Harav in the second decade of the twentieth century, brought together a group of some very talented individuals to the forefront of Torah education. Among others, we'll examine the life of the Rav Dovid Cohen, the Rav Hanazir (1887-1972), who's origins lay in the Rabbinic Lithuanian aristocracy and later became a modern day Nazir. Rav Yitzchok Arielli (1896-1974) was home grown talent in the Old City of Yerushalayim. Following his exposure to Rav Kook, he became a close student and subsequently one of the heads of Merkaz Harav, while also achieving distinction as one of the leading poskim in Yerushalayim. Rav Yaakov Moshe Charlap (1882-1951) a mystic, thinker, Talmudist, community Rabbi, leader and Rosh Yeshiva, was one of the most diverse of this talented circle. 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]

380

Building Torah in America Part II: A Conversation with Rabbi Dr. Aaron Rakeffet Rothkoff

Dec 6, 2019

35:43

Get ready for Part 2 of our interview with the legendary Rabbi Dr. Aaron Rakeffet-Rothkoff. Rav Rakeffett is a world class Jewish Historian who has lived a storied life, from learning in Lakewood and Yeshiva University to sharing close relationships with luminaries such as Rabbi Joseph Ber Soloveitchik, Rav Aaron Kotler,Rav Moshe Feinstein as well as other Gedolim. He has authored numerous bestselling Sefarim and Books such as "The Silver Era" and the multi volume "Rakaffot Aaron" series. He has thousands of Talmidim around the world, many of whom listen to his Shiurim regularly in person at Gruss Kollel in Yerushalayim and online at YUTorah.org . In addition to his storied teaching and writing careers, Rav Rakeffet has spent time working for the IDF and Mossad on a variety of important missions including clandestine trips to Soviet Russia and a close involvement with the Zachary Baumel HY'D case. 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]

381

Building Torah in America: A Conversation with Rabbi Dr. Aaron Rakeffet-Rothkoff Part I

Dec 5, 2019

36:04

Our momentous 100th Episode is Part 1 of our interview with the legendary Rabbi Dr. Aaron Rakeffet-Rothkoff. Rav Rakeffett is a world class Jewish Historian who has lived a storied life, from learning in Lakewood and Yeshiva University to sharing close relationships with luminaries such as Rabbi Joseph Ber Soloveitchik, Rav Aaron Kotler,Rav Moshe Feinstein as well as other Gedolim. He has authored numerous bestselling Sefarim and Books such as "The Silver Era" and the multi volume "Rakaffot Aaron" series. He has thousands of Talmidim around the world, many of whom listen to his Shiurim regularly in person at Gruss Kollel in Yerushalayim and online at YUTorah.org . In addition to his storied teaching and writing careers, Rav Rakeffet has spent time working for the IDF and Mossad on a variety of important missions including clandestine trips to Soviet Russia and a close involvement with the Zachary Baumel HY'D case. 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]

382

WWI & The Jews Part II: Jew vs Jew and the Eastern European Exile

Dec 3, 2019

50:24

As loyal citizens of their respective countries, Jews served loyally in every army and on every front. Very often one encountered the tragic scenario of Jew fighting Jew. Jewish chaplains serviced Jewish soldiers in the German army, and connected with local Jewish communities in areas under German occupation. This enhanced the connection between East and West. Jewish soldiers faced numerous challenges while serving and it became part of the struggle of Jewish identity in modern times. Jewish communities were exiled across Eastern Europe. With Galicia Jews streaming west towards Vienna, the pace of urbanization quickened. This brought Chassidus and great Rebbes for the first time to the West and to the great urban centers. Meanwhile in Russia, some communities were exiled as a result of the their homes being turned into a battlefield, while others were expelled by the Czar to the Russian interior. This massive exile caused a great upheaval in communal life, and in some instances a complete disintegration thereof. Among the exiled were many of the great Lithuanian Yeshivas. They attempted to relocate and continue their studies under ever worsening conditions. 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]

383

From Slabodka to The Seminary: The Story of Professor Saul Lieberman

Nov 30, 2019

23:29

Of the many figures who traversed two worlds in the past century, perhaps none epitomized that duality more than Rabbi Dr. Saul Lieberman. Scion of a Rabbinical family and student of Slabodka, he was to become one of the greatest scholars ever in the field of early Rabbinic writings. As one of the chief professors at the Jewish Theological Seminary for over four decades, he struggled with the challenges of Jewish identity in the Conservative and Orthodox communities. A brilliant and enigmatic personality, his winding career is a prism of the vicissitudes of Jewish life in the 20th 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]

384

To Save A World: Rav Aharon Kotler's Endless Activism

Nov 28, 2019

25:38

Kletzker Rosh Yeshiva, Agudist, member of Agudas Harrabonim, head of Vaad Hatzala, Rosh Yeshiva of Lakewood/BMG, founder and head of Chinuch Atzmai, Torah Umesorah & more. Rav Aharon Kotler (1891-1962) wore many hats in the diverse array of initiatives that he undertook to build the future of the Jewish people worldwide. With his boundless energy and devoted lieutenants, he partnered with people from all types and backgrounds to further the projects that he spearheaded. With his bold vision, he set out to invest in Jewish education in both the United States and Israel. In 1956, he led a campaign launch a Torah School network in Israel in the form of Chinuch Atzmai. The guest of honor at the inaugural dinner was Rav Yoshe Ber Soloveitchik, and was a historic event in the annals 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]

385

Collaboration or Cooperation? Eliezer Greunbaum & Jewish Kapos

Nov 26, 2019

30:04

One of the most difficult stories to confront in an objective fashion, is the issue of Jewish collaboration during the Holocaust. From the Judenrat and the Jewish Police in the Ghettos to Kapos in the Concentration Camps, the questions raised by the moral decisions made by Jews working ostensibly for the Nazis resonates till this very day. One of the more famous stories was of Eliezer Greunbaum, the communist son of the great Zionist leader Yitzchak Greunbaum. As a Kapo in Auschwitz he was accused after the war of being a collaborator. But was he? Decades later, can we view the situation with more nuance, objectivity and balance and recognize the dilemmas they faced under trying circumstances? 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]

386

A Lost World: The Great Dynasty of Radomsk

Nov 23, 2019

31:01

One of the largest Chassidic groups before the war, Radomsk evoked the majesty of Polish Chassidus in its full glory. Completely decimated during the Holocaust, it remains mostly unknown today. The story begins with the Tiferes Shlomo of Radomsk who was one of the most beloved Rebbes of his day. As Jews from all over Poland flocked to the warmth of Radomsk, this court came to be known for its warmth, acceptance and it's beautiful songs. The last Rebbe of Radomsk moved with his followers into the modern era by investing his energies in building a vast network of Yeshivas called Keser Torah across Poland. Staying with his chassidim till the very end, he was martyred in the Warsaw Ghetto snuffing out the torch of this great dynasty. 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]

387

A Sisterhood Of One: The Story of the Woman Who Sustained Europe's Yeshivas

Nov 21, 2019

26:27

During the interwar period, against all odds, an American women took a leading role in the funding of the great Yeshivas of Eastern Europe. Her name was Mrs. Necha Golding. As an organizer of women's auxiliary groups for various Yeshivas or as a hostess to the Roshei Yeshivas themselves when they came on fundraising trips, she was always at the forefront of activities on behalf of building Torah. She and her family forged ties to greats like the Chofetz Chaim, Rav Boruch Ber, Rav Elchonon Wasserman and Rav Aaron Kotler. She didn't just host them, she helped sustain them and they never ever forgot. 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]

388

The Forgotten War: WWI & The Jews Part I (JHS Winter Series)

Nov 19, 2019

49:23

Brand New Full-Length Series for Winter 2019-20! World War I had far reaching changes in Jewish life and society whose reverberations are still felt today. As the subsequent tragic events of the Holocaust overshadowed World War I, this chapter of Jewish History has been relegated to a footnote in Jewish History. In order for us to understand the various angles of Jewish society within the context of the war, it's imperative to gain an understanding of the world of Empires that Europe was at this time. Imperialism, alliances and other factors joined to create one of the greatest conflicts in world history. This would in turn devastate Jewish life in both the physical/material sense, as well as the social/religious frameworks of Jewish communal life. As the towns of Eastern Europe turned into battlefields, the dramatic changes were immediately felt. Other more subtle changes were just beginning, and the long term effects on Jewish society would be felt for many 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]

389

A Citadel of Torah: The Presidents, Personalities & Roshei Yeshiva of RIETS Part I

Nov 16, 2019

25:52

Although the story of RIETS/YU is huge and would take some time to cover, we can perhaps get a bit of a taste by examining the lives of some of the great people who graced the Yeshiva with their presence over the years. In this episode we'll meet the first Rosh Yeshiva of what was to become RIETS, R' Shlomo Nosson Kotler (1865-1945). Described by some as the greatest Talmid chacham ever to live in the United States, his varied career brought to America twice before he eventually settled in Israel. This is followed by the architect of the concept of Yeshiva College, Rabbi Dr. Bernard Revel (1885-1940), who did more than anyone else to create the Yeshiva that we know today. Finally, we'll meet R' Moshe Shatzkes (1881-1958), the great Lomza Rov who spent his later years at the helm of RIETS. One of the greatest Rabbinical leaders of interwar Poland, he headed the Vaad Hayeshivas there before escaping to America via 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]

390

Window To A Lost World: The Early Years of Rav Shach

Nov 14, 2019

27:45

One of the most famous and dynamic Torah leaders of recent times was undoubtedly R' Elazar Menachem Shach (1899-2001). Although he lived a very long life, his famous actions in the public sphere cover less than a third of a very fruitful career of teaching Torah. His early years saw him studying under some of the greatest Lithuanian luminaries of his day. He then spent a colorful 30 year career teaching at various pre war and post war Torah institutions. Perhaps the varied experience he gained in these diverse positions prepared him for his central position of leadership he was to later assume. 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]

391

Vote for Maran! Rav Ovadia Yosef Part II: The Founding of Shas

Nov 12, 2019

27:23

From the moment Rav Ovadia Yosef accepted the mantle of leadership of the nascent Shas political party in the early '80's, his name came to be synonymous with the revolution that Shas had become. The founding of the Shas Party led to the forming of the Moetzet Chachmei Hatorah, the Rabbinical council which advises the Party till today. R' Ovadia was appointed to head the council. He proceeded to take a very active role in decision making, and displayed an astute perception of the jungle which characterizes Israeli politics. At the same time, he saw himself as the Rabbinical leader of the Sephardic community worldwide and not limited to the political sphere. In his mind, he remained first and foremost, a teacher of Torah, an exponent of psak halacha, a speaker with a message to his people, as well as a political leader when he deemed it necessary. 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]

392

To Live A Life of Torah: The Life of Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel Part II

Nov 9, 2019

33:27

Rav Nosson Tzvi's arrival in Mir Yeshiva Jerusalem as a young adolescent became a turning point in his life, and ultimately set the stage as a turning point in the history of the Mir as well. After going back and forth a couple of times, he eventually settled down, married into the family, and subsequently spent the next several years in a tireless effort towards greatness. In the winter of 1990, Rav Nosson Tzvi succeeded his father in law Rav Beinish Finkel as Rosh Yeshiva of the Mir. For the next 22 years until his passing, he oversaw a meteoric growth of the student body as well as building the buildings to hold them all. Through this entire career, he never lost the personal warmth and care that he had for any student of the Yeshiva - as well as many strangers from without. This ability to maintain a personal connection and relationship, made him the beloved figure to so many who knew him. 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]

393

The Kid From Chicago: The Life of Rav Nosson Tzvi Finkel Part I

Nov 7, 2019

29:19

One of the most beloved teachers and builders of Torah in times was the legendary Mir Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Nosson Tzvi Finkel (1943-2011) This Chicago native went on to build a veritable empire of Torah learning in Yerushalayim, while remaining a warm and personable role model to his many students. In this episode, we'll examine the world he grew up in, his family background, parents and his early years, in order to gain a better understanding of who he was and his myriad accomplishments. Musical tribute: "Avi Avi" by the Shira Chadash Boys Choir. 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]

394

Innovative Methods & Rebellious Students: Early Years of Telz Yeshiva Part I

Nov 5, 2019

30:05

With the growth of the Lithuanian Yeshiva movement in the 19th century, the great Yeshiva of Telz was to take a prominent place as one of the premier Yeshivas of the age. From modest beginnings, it grew in both numbers and stature under the watch of legendary Rav Leizer Gordon. Telz boasted of an innovative organizational structure which included an acceptance policy, a rigid class structure and regular tests on the material studied. The attempt to bring the Mussar movement within the walls of the Yeshiva, along with specific Rabbinical appointments, led to a series of clashes - sometimes violent - between the independent minded Telzer students and the Yeshiva administration. Ultimately the revolts and the winds of rebellion were quelled, and peace and prosperity allowed Telz to continue its destiny to greatness. 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]

395

The Eternal Flame: The Everlasting Legacy of the "Aish Kodesh"

Nov 2, 2019

25:27

R' Kalonymus Kalman Shapira (1889-1943), better known as the Piaseczno Rebbe, is a figure who's influence seems to just grow as time goes on. Heroic in life and a martyr in death, he's earned his place in the pantheon of Jewish leadership of the 20th century. Known for his writings, teachings, insights into Jewish education and of course his talks to his chassidim in the darkest times of the Warsaw Ghetto. In this episode, we will examine his life and times, giving the context which shaped his personality and leadership role. Playing an important role in interwar Warsaw Yeshiva education, he also served as a chassidic Rebbe and communal Rabbi at the same time. Despite his personal losses at the onset of the war, he maintained his position within the Ghetto in a valiant attempt to inspire his followers in the ever worsening conditions. Following his murder in Aktion Enternfest in the Trawniki concentration camp, the story of Piaseczno was not yet over. After the war, his writings were discovered in the second cache of the Ringelblum Archive and ultimately published as the "Aish Kodesh". 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]

396

Restoring The Glory To The Crown: Rav Ovadia Yosef & Sephardic Jewry Part I

Oct 31, 2019

34:50

From the expulsion from Spain in 1492, down to modern times, Sephardic Jewry has never experienced the rejuvenation experienced under the leadership of Rav Ovadia Yosef (1920-2013). Stemming from humble origins in Iraq, he rose to fame in Rabbinical positions in Egypt, Yerushalayim, Petach Tikva, Tel Aviv and finally the Chief Rabbinate of the State of Israel. A prolific writer and world renowned posek, he became one of the greatest Halachic decisors of modern times. In his later years he would become famous as the spiritual leader and titular head of the Shas political party. 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]

397

Who Art Thou Moses? Untangling the Life & Legacy of Moses Mendelssohn

Oct 29, 2019

20:54

Heralded as the father of Reform Judaism by some, derided as a destroyer of traditional Jewish life by others and forgotten by most, Moses Mendelssohn's legacy continues to intrigue Jewish minds across the spectrum. He entered the gates of Berlin as a young 14 year old, and ultimately embraced the ideals of the enlightenment and German Philosophy. Through his teaching and prodigious literary output, an attempt was made to synthesize traditional Jewish observance while incorporating elements of the surrounding culture. The question remains as to what is his "true" legacy, but his influence remains in the Jewish world till today. 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]

398

America's Glorious Pastime: Baseball & The Jews

Oct 26, 2019

27:07

With the World Series currently taking place, it's high time that Jewish History Soundbites takes leave of Eastern Europe and examine the Jewish People's connection to professional baseball. From the famous stories of Hank Greenberg and Sandy Koufax, to the less well known ones of the '69 Mets Jewish connection, America's favorite pastime has deep connections to the Jewish story in the United States. On the 50th anniversary of the 1969 NY Mets World Series victory, we'll delve into the story of why they won. Aside from Jewish players, managers, owners and broadcasters, Jewish fans of baseball have been a barometer of integration into American life and culture. So, as we bask in the pride of various different Jewish players not playing on Yom Kippur, enjoy your kosher hot dog in the stands at "the ole Ball Game"! 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]

399

From Strength to Strength: Leadership & Dissent within the Great Dynasty of Ger

Oct 23, 2019

29:17

With the current talk about an unheard of split in the storied Chassidic court of Ger, it's worth examining the historical context about why such a move is so unusual. From it's roots in Pshischa and Kotzk, Polish Chassidus experience quite a few upheavals and splits before the Ger dynasty stabilized in the late 19th century. Under the able leadership of the Sfas Emes and even more so of his son Rav Avraham Mordechai Alter, the Imrei Emes, Ger became the largest, most dominant and leading chassidic group in pre war Poland. The Gerrer Rebbe led this veritable empire for 43 years, with the full support of all of his family members, and was dubbed by the Polish press as "the king of the Jews". Following the decimation of Polish Jewry, Ger began to rebuild, this time under the watch of the Bais Yisroel. It was only following the death of the last of the Polish generation that a rebuilt, confident and strong Ger could possibly think of dissent or a split within the 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]

400

Tales of Sukkos: The Great Daled Minim Hunt & Simchas Torah In Shanghai

Oct 16, 2019

29:11

In honor of the happy Sukkos holiday, here's a potpourri of anecdotes - some interesting, others entertaining - of Sukkos throughout recent Jewish history. What was it like to shop for a lulav and esrog when all esrogim had to be imported? How about during wartime? What was the atmosphere in the pre war Yeshivas by the Simchas Bais hashoeva and Simchas Torah? What happened to the Chozeh of Lublin on the last Simchas Torah of his life? 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]