Classes by Mordechai Dinerman

51

The Vanishing Verses: Curious Cases of Textual Tampering in Our Machzor

Sep 24, 2024

1:09:41

In this class, we will analyze four beautiful piyutim that we chant on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, uncovering some structural oddities along the way. As we raise questions and examine older prints and medieval manuscripts, we’ll uncover a story of mysterious censorship. While we’ll piece together what happened, understanding why it happened will prove to be more challenging. Links: Machzor, Lublin 1551 ⁠https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990011638640205171/NLI⁠ Bodleian Library, MS. Michael 619 ⁠https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/9e481d9a-06e6-41e8-ae36-a58d445a1ffa/surfaces/2e65041c-333b-4c90-9b54-c3566fbf73d8/#⁠ Bodleian Library, MS. Heb. e. 39 (Geniza) ⁠https://hebrew.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/fragments/full/MS HEB e 39 4b.jpg⁠ Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Hébreu 631 ⁠https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b105392732/f25.item⁠ Bodleian Library MS. Laud Or. 321 ⁠https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/268d1688-4523-4aed-962a-75f24c8cbfd0/surfaces/0b534075-2679-4a1e-88ca-998acfad9899/#⁠ Bodleian Library, MS. Michael 627 ⁠https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/b3f2d1d5-ff07-4a6e-87ea-281c41957925/surfaces/ed999873-315d-46dc-a134-c50ca6f24362/#⁠ Bavarian State Library, Cod. Hebr. 69 ⁠https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001265200205171-1,FL50147206]]⁠ Basel University Library, MS. R II 2 ⁠https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001730950205171-1,FL61239499]]⁠ Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Hébreu 621 ⁠https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b105420719/f70.planchecontact⁠ State Library Berlin, MS. OR 4200 ⁠https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990000819800205171-1,FL55910250]]⁠ The Vanishing Verses: Curious Cases of Textual Tampering in Our Machzor

52

Art of the Blast: Shofar Blowing Customs in Medieval Manuscripts

Sep 11, 2024

1:07:10

In this episode, we’re diving into fascinating early 16th-century woodcut images and priceless medieval machzor manuscripts to see how they portray the mitzvah of blowing the shofar. We’ll explore the unique details in these images that reveal interesting minhagim of the time, though some might leave us with more questions than answers. Let’s uncover the stories these images tell about our tradition. Links: Book on Jewish Confession (Nuremberg 1508) https://sammlungen.ub.uni-frankfurt.de/freimann/content/thumbview/6515799 Der Juden Spiegel (Cologne 1508) https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/bpt6k1911061m/f39.double Luzzato Machzor https://www.sothebys.com/en/articles/the-luzzatto-high-holiday-mahzor-1 Machzor – Bavarian State Library https://www.digitale-sammlungen.de/en/view/bsb00034975?page=82 Kaufmann Machzor - Hungarian Academy of Sciences http://kaufmann.mtak.hu/en/ms388/ms388-012v.htm Machzor – Cambridge University Library https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-ADD-00662/127 Machzor – Austrian National Library https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001692630205171-1,FL21854414]] Art of the Blast: Shofar Blowing Customs in Medieval Manuscripts

53

Fowl Play: The Great Turkey-Chicken Debate of the 19th Century

Sep 4, 2024

1:07:25

In the 1860s, European Jewish communities faced a unique halachic challenge: the arrival of new chicken breeds from distant lands. As these exotic fowl entered the marketplace, rabbis debated their kosher status, igniting an adjacent discussion on how and why the turkey became accepted as kosher. Fowl Play: The Great Turkey-Chicken Debate of the 19th Century

54

Dreams of Revision: The Role of Dreams in Altering Halachic Rulings

Aug 21, 2024

1:09:49

In the 1970s, a Chabad journal in Israel published a story about the Alter Rebbe reversing a halachic ruling based on a dream, sparking significant controversy. This incident opens the door to a fascinating exploration of a practice that was surprisingly common among Ashkenazic rabbis in the 12th and 13th centuries—using dreams to guide halachic decisions. Dreams of Revision: The Role of Dreams in Altering Halachic Rulings

55

The Rabbi Who Wouldn’t Wait: A Proposal to Reinstate the Korbanos

Aug 8, 2024

1:19:10

In the 1830s, Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch Kalischer penned an extensive letter to one of the Rothschilds, seeking his support for an ambitious plan to reinstate the korbanos on the Temple Mount. The rabbi contended that awaiting Moshiach was neither necessary nor prudent. This proposal ignited a debate among his rabbinic contemporaries, a discourse that continued well into the 20th century. Today, this story invites us to delve into many of the laws involving the Beis Hamikdash, a particularly fitting endeavor during the Three Weeks. The Rabbi Who Wouldn’t Wait: A Proposal to Reinstate the Korbanos

56

Unconditional Love: A Commemorative Study of a Talk by the Lubavitcher Rebbe

Jul 2, 2024

1:06:07

As we approach Gimmel Tammuz, marking the Rebbe’s thirtieth Hilula, we’re doing something different: a text-based class on an important talk by the Rebbe from Shabbos Korach 1988, a talk that captures a lot of the Rebbe’s hashkafah. The aim is to find inspiration and wisdom in his words, which can be applied to our daily lives and shared with others. Unconditional Love: A Commemorative Study of a Talk by the Lubavitcher Rebbe

57

The Provocative Portrait: Unveiling the True Face of Moshe Rabbeinu

Jun 18, 2024

1:12:19

Rabbi Yisrael Lifshitz, a well-known commentator on the Mishnah, included a provocative legend about Moshe Rabbeinu in his writings, suggesting that Moshe naturally possessed negative character traits. Over the following decades, some rabbis strongly opposed this legend, arguing that its claims were baseless and defamed Moshe’s revered image. In this class, we’ll talk about the origins of this controversial story, look at both sides of the debate, and explore why this account struck a chord with many Chasidic authors. The Provocative Portrait: Unveiling the True Face of Moshe Rabbeinu

58

Yom Tov Burial: The Talmud, the Rishonim, and the Baal Shem Tov

Jun 5, 2024

1:08:49

The Baal Shem Tov passed away on Shavuos in 1760, but the exact day of his passing and the time and manner of his burial have long been subjects of controversy and mystery. In this class, we explore this subject by learning about two major debates regarding yom tov burials that emerged during the Middle Ages. Through this journey, we aim to deepen our appreciation for the laws and values related to yom tov observance and the proper dignity afforded to those who have passed away. Yom Tov Burial: The Talmud, the Rishonim, and the Baal Shem Tov

59

The Masada Martyrs: Halachic Perspectives on History’s Hardest Choices

May 22, 2024

1:12:11

How does a halachic mind interpret the harrowing events at Masada, where Jewish rebels chose death at their own hands over surrender? In this class, we delve into this question, exploring not only the tragic case at Masada but also similar ethical dilemmas faced by Jews during the Middle Ages when confronted with forced conversions under Christian rule. The complexities of these historic moments offer deep insights into the moral and spiritual struggles that have shaped Jewish resilience and identity. The Masada Martyrs: Halachic Perspectives on History’s Hardest Choices

60

Grain Matters: Navigating the Chadash Predicament Across the Centuries

May 15, 2024

1:08:50

Throughout history, Jewish communities have thrived in diverse locales, each presenting unique agricultural schedules. While adhering to the prohibition against eating chadash proved feasible in some regions, in others, it posed significant obstacles to daily life. This class delves into the strategies employed by the Ashkenazi rishonim and the legendary Acharonim of Poland, exploring five approaches to justify non-compliance, particularly in circumstances where adherence would be exceptionally challenging. Grain Matters: Navigating the Chadash Predicament Across the Centuries

61

The Frankist Blood Libel

May 8, 2024

1:04:03

In 1759, a clandestine faction of Shabetai Tzvi’s followers in Poland committed a startling act: they collectively converted to Christianity while simultaneously accusing Jews of the age-old fabrication of using blood in matzah production. Despite the longstanding existence of the blood libel, this marked the first instance where the accusation was made by citing and distorting Talmudic and halachic sources. In this class, we examine the specific passages they employed and learn the response of the Jewish leadership during that era. As Ber of Bolochov, the chronicler of this event, emphasized, recording this narrative was essential to ensure that future generations would understand the suffering and trials of their ancestors and how it was notably worse when it emanated from within the Jewish community. The Frankist Blood Libel

62

The Kittsee Haggadah

Apr 10, 2024

58:24

The library of Agudas Chasidei Chabad houses a remarkable manuscript crafted in 1760 by the talented scribe and artist Chaim ben Asher Anshel of Kittsee, near present-day Bratislava. We’ll trace the journey of this Haggadah from its creation to its acquisition by the Frierdiker Rebbe. Opening this manuscript, we’ll examine its layout, artwork, nusach, and style of nikud, seeking to uncover the influences that shaped Chaim ben Asher’s masterpiece through a comparative analysis with other Haggadahs of that period. To purchase a facsimile of the Kittzee Haggadah: https://store.kehotonline.com/prodinfo.asp?number=HP-HAGG.KITZEE To view it online, visit the following link and insert card number “1950”: https://chabadlibrary.org/catalog/index.php?catalog=mscatalog Additional Links: Kittzee Haggadah 1748, Gross Collection https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990000632400205171-1,FL54685621 Kittzee Haggadah 1768, Hebrew Union College https://mss.huc.edu/phpviewer/index.php?path=MS 451 Kittzee Haggadah 1769, Jewish Museum London https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001792760205171-1,FL28179029 Kittzee Haggadah 1771, Hungarian Academy of Sciences https://www.nli.org.il/en/discover/manuscripts/hebrew-manuscripts/viewerpage?vid=MANUSCRIPTS#d=[[PNX MANUSCRIPTS990001920270205171-1,FL59161404 Kittzee Haggadah 1772, JTS Library https://digitalcollections.jtsa.edu/islandora/object/jts%3A62343#page/41/mode/1up Amsterdam 1695 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990013798840205171/NLI#modal-downloadModal Prague 1713 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990013798850205171/NLI Offenbach 1721 https://www.hebrewbooks.org/4923 Frankfurt 1724 https://www.nli.org.il/en/books/NNL ALEPH990010665310205171/NLI

63

The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550

Apr 8, 2024

1:06:26

In the year 1550, two non-Jewish printers published competing editions of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah. One of them partnered with an esteemed rabbi from Padua, who, in his quest for support, turned to Rabbi Moshe Isserlis. Rama’s response along with a careful examination of the printed volumes unveil the details of this dispute. Rama’s scholarly answer also sheds light on various areas of commercial Halachah as well as the Noahide laws. The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550

64

The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550

Apr 7, 2024

1:06:26

In the year 1550, two non-Jewish printers published competing editions of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah. One of them partnered with an esteemed rabbi from Padua, who, in his quest for support, turned to Rabbi Moshe Isserlis. Rama’s response along with a careful examination of the printed volumes unveil the details of this dispute. Rama’s scholarly answer also sheds light on various areas of commercial Halachah as well as the Noahide laws. The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550

65

The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550

Apr 7, 2024

1:01:04

In the year 1550, two non-Jewish printers published competing editions of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah. One of them partnered with an esteemed rabbi from Padua, who, in his quest for support, turned to Rabbi Moshe Isserlis. Rama’s response along with a careful examination of the printed volumes unveil the details of this dispute. Rama’s scholarly answer also sheds light on various areas of commercial Halachah as well as the Noahide laws. The Printers’ Clash: The Battle Over Rambam’s Mishneh Torah, Venice 1550

66

Seduction and Sacrifice: From the Purim Story to the Responsa Literature

Mar 20, 2024

57:05

There have been tragic instances where Jewish women felt compelled to take drastic measures to save the lives of their fellow Jews. When rabbis were presented with these real-life cases, they turned to the story of Esther for inspiration and guidance. Seduction and Sacrifice: From the Purim Story to the Responsa Literature

67

Scrolls, Scribes, and Shortcuts: An Incomplete Megilah in the Cairo Geniza

Mar 13, 2024

1:06:56

Today, we explore enigmatic Megilahs, where the absence of the text eclipses the written word. We’ll learn that this peculiar phenomenon is just a fragment of a larger tendency reflected in the Geniza to produce incomplete texts. We shall unravel the motivations behind this practice, reminding us of the formidable challenges in reproducing sacred texts by scribal hand. Links: First Megilah image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-AS-00044-00005/1 Second Megilah image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-NS-00286-00043/1 Third Megilah image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-NS-00286-00043/1 First Chumash image https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-A-00043-00004/2 Second Chumash image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-A-00043-00013/2 First Tehilim image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-NS-00281-00131/2 Second Tehilim image: https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-AS-00039-00186/2 Final Megilah Image https://cudl.lib.cam.ac.uk/view/MS-TS-AS-00041-00207/1 Scrolls, Scribes, and Shortcuts: An Incomplete Megilah in the Cairo Geniza

68

Lost Scrolls, Lost Souls: A Spanish Jew’s Plea to Rediscover Tanach | Favorite Episodes

Dec 27, 2023

1:02:10

Tunisian Jews used to refer to Tanach with a very odd name, and few understood why. Fortunately, illuminated medieval Jewish manuscripts can help solve this mystery. They bring us back to the 14th century, where we find Rabbi Yitzchak ben Moshe Halevi fervently contending that there has been a neglect of studying Tanach and that this is akin to abandoning the sacred Beis Hamikdash. Lost Scrolls, Lost Souls: A Spanish Jew’s Plea to Rediscover Tanach | Favorite Episodes

69

The Scandalous History of Aleinu

Dec 19, 2023

1:06:18

When we examine medieval manuscripts that feature Aleinu, we uncover intriguing instances of censorship within this ancient prayer. What motivated these textual alterations, and can they be linked to a specific historical event? Delving into this subject unveils a significant episode from the year 1390, shedding light on the numerous amendments and erasures made to the text. These changes continue to influence various minhagim to the present day. Relevant links: Michael Machzor https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/b3f2d1d5-ff07-4a6e-87ea-281c41957925/surfaces/2df6a671-c677-4e7d-a5df-e722f28f4c60/# Esslingen Machzor https://digitalcollections.jtsa.edu/islandora/object/jts%3A2173#page/43/mode/1up Tripartite Machzor https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/9e481d9a-06e6-41e8-ae36-a58d445a1ffa/surfaces/f6ca5ba3-7c09-4b1f-a288-3d3c052e65e9/# Machzor from the Rhineland https://bibliophilly.library.upenn.edu/viewer.php?id=CAJS%20Rar%20Ms%20382#page/489/mode/1up Worms Machzor https://www.nli.org.il/he/manuscripts/NNL ALEPH000044560/NLI?volumeItem=2#$FL21059450 The Scandalous History of Aleinu - New Episode

70

The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives | Favorite Episodes

Dec 12, 2023

1:02:37

Favorite Episodes Are our dreams significant? Do they have predictive value? Should we pay heed to their warnings? The Talmud seems to offer contradictory teachings on this subject, and this will lead us toward two classic approaches to this matter. The Meaning of Dreaming: Talmudic Perspectives

71

Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts | Favorite Episodes

Dec 6, 2023

1:09:07

Click here to view the class PowerPoint slides. Favorite Episodes | Initially released in July 2023. We are all acquainted with the renowned depiction of the menorah created by the Rambam. In this class, we dig into the story of this image. Where did it come from? Can we trust its accuracy? When was it discovered? Did later artists and copyists treat it as just a doodle or something more meaningful? Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts

72

Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square | Favorite Episodes

Nov 29, 2023

57:01

Favorite Episodes | Initially released in December 2022. We can learn about the public presence of women in a given society by examining how various rabbis understood the story of Dina. We’ll witness the difference between Ashkenazic and Sefardic commentaries, between the Tanchuma and Bereishis Rabah, and between Ashkenazic and Sefardic halachic norms. Between Ashkenaz and Sefard: Medieval Women, Biblical Dena, and the Public Square

73

In the Dungeons of the Inquisition

Oct 25, 2023

58:41

In this episode, we explore the intriguing narrative of a Jew named Shlomo, also known as Fillipo, who found himself ensnared by the Inquisition in Venice during the 1580s. Raised as a Christian in Portugal during a period when Jews were prohibited from residing there, Shlomo’s journey took a profound turn when he embraced Judaism in Venice, a choice that carried substantial risks. His captivating story can be learned through the archives of the Venetian Inquisition but also through two rabbinic responsa. In the Dungeons of the Inquisition

74

The Heartless Chicken

Oct 18, 2023

1:01:30

We examine the tale of the heartless chicken that ignited lively discussion among rabbinic authorities in the year 1709. We introduce the pivotal figures in this intriguing narrative, examine the framing of the question, analyze the diverse range of answers proposed, and learn about the captivating research endeavors undertaken by these rabbis in their quest for a definitive solution. This engaging study about the interplay between science and tradition offers unique insights into the intellectual landscape of the time. The Heartless Chicken

75

The Puzzle of Peshat: Rashbam’s Controversial Commentary

Oct 11, 2023

57:37

In 1158, Rabbi Avraham ibn Ezra found himself disturbed by a provocative dream, which ultimately inspired him to author a treatise concerning the proper start time of the halachic day—evening. One possibility is that this work was a polemical discourse aimed at Rashbam’s Torah commentary. This prompts us to delve into the story of this commentary, examining some of the controversial passages that have sparked confusion throughout the ages. Ultimately, we emerge from this exploration with an empowering revelation: the fact that the halachic day commences at nightfall teaches us about becoming resilient in times of crisis. The Puzzle of Peshat: Rashbam’s Controversial Commentary

76

The History of Kol Nidrei

Sep 20, 2023

1:09:39

Kol Nidrei has been associated with controversy since its inception, and we’re here to delve deep into its intriguing story. We’ll unravel the criticisms it faced, the defenses it inspired, and the persistent misconceptions that have colored its long history. But that’s not all. We’ll also embark on a journey to trace the theory that links Kol Nidrei to the Marranos. The History of Kol Nidrei

77

The History and Evolution of the Chabad Machzor

Sep 13, 2023

1:26:32

What is the story behind the Chabad Machzor? In the first part of this class, we find ourselves comparing two sacred machzorim. The current Chabad Machzor is open before us, focusing on the Shachris of Rosh Hashanah. Concurrently, we have images of an Ashkenazi machzor dating back to the 1200s. Our purpose is to discern the commonalities and distinctions between the two. We then attempt to learn about how the Chabad machzor developed. We show that during the nineteenth century, there were diverse perspectives within the Chabad community concerning the role of the piyyutim. Ultimately, the transformative moment in this story is the official publication of the Lubavitch Machzor in 1941. To see the images of the medieval machzor, click here: https://digital.bodleian.ox.ac.uk/objects/268d1688-4523-4aed-962a-75f24c8cbfd0/surfaces/f381f605-74ae-4eea-8383-948ab02ff422/ To see the first print of the Alter Rebbe's siddur, click here: https://viewer.rsl.ru/ru/rsl01006554275?page=1&rotate=0&theme=white The History and Evolution of the Chabad Machzor

78

Troubling Tales: The Rebbe’s Approach to Controversial Stories

Aug 31, 2023

1:00:10

The Lubavitcher Rebbe raised an interesting question on the renowned tale of Rabbi Amnon and Unesaneh Tokef. We’ll show that this comment was just the tip of the iceberg as we delve into the Rebbe’s reaction to ten distinct stories that raised halachic or ethical concerns. Stories mirror cherished values and shape communal norms, underscoring the significance of this exploration. Troubling Tales: The Rebbe’s Approach to Controversial Stories

79

The Politics of Divorce: King Henry’s Wives and the Italian Rabbis

Aug 25, 2023

1:41:38

Delve into the riveting saga of King Henry VIII’s marital turmoil as he sought to dissolve his marriage in order to marry a second queen. We’ll discover the intriguing intersection of politics, religion, and royal prerogatives as this notorious English monarch sought the counsel of Italian rabbis to help his cause while other powerful figures tried to impede them. This will lead us toward the lone surviving Hebrew letter by an Italian rabbi that was dispatched to the king and to additional arguments by contemporary Jews as conveyed by the dispatches of European diplomats. The Politics of Divorce: King Henry’s Wives and the Italian Rabbis

80

Dancing with History: The 15th of Av and Its Legacy in Renaissance Jewry

Aug 2, 2023

1:04:47

This class delves into the story of Jews during the 1500s who were drawn to the Renaissance and embraced immodest dancing. They sought justification in the ancient custom of vineyard dancing on the 15th of Av and Yom Kippur in the Land of Israel. Examining how 16th-century rabbis expressed their disapproval leads us to discuss various interpretations of the ancient vineyard dance and how rabbis grappled with this extraordinary ritual through the ages. Dancing with History: The 15th of Av and Its Legacy in Renaissance Jewry

81

Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts

Jul 26, 2023

1:08:55

We are all acquainted with the renowned depiction of the menorah created by the Rambam. In this class, we dig into the story of this image. Where did it come from? Can we trust its accuracy? When was it discovered? Did later artists and copyists treat it as just a doodle or something more meaningful? Rambam’s Menorah: Insights from Ancient Hebrew Manuscripts

82

The Controversial Haskamah

Jul 19, 2023

1:06:44

Starting in the 1870s, a visionary Jerusalem rabbi was consumed by the idea of resurrecting the ancient mitzvah of guarding the site of the Beis Hamikdash. But his fervor was met with indifference and opposition from others, sparking a halachic debate of significant proportions. As the narrative unfolds, unexpected connections emerge, revealing the curious involvement of the Chabad rebbes in this intriguing tale. The Controversial Haskamah

83

Techeles: A Tangled Tale

Jul 5, 2023

1:05:01

During the late 1880s, an audacious endeavor was set forth by the Radziner Rebbe, aimed at renewing the ancient legacy of techeles through his arduous quest to rediscover the elusive chilazon. However, amidst his fervor, a tide of opposition emerged. In this class, our attention turns to the objections raised by the Rebbe Rashab, carefully outlined in a letter authored in 1907, after having perused the works of the Radziner Rebbe. Techeles: A Tangled Tale

84

The Missing Section in the Shulchan Aruch

Jun 28, 2023

1:09:05

It’s truly astonishing: the Shulchan Aruch, the most important work of Jewish law, doesn’t codify the mitzvah of ahavas Yisrael and many of its related laws, including rechilus, lashon hara, nekamah, and others. In this class, we’ll examine the background and history that may help us come to grips with this curious omission. The Missing Section in the Shulchan Aruch

85

Banned and Burned: The 1232 Controversy Surrounding Rambam’s Works

Jun 21, 2023

1:08:05

In today’s episode, we turn our attention to the dispute over the Rambam’s works that took place in Europe in 1232. The controversy revolved around Rambam’s Moreh Nevuchim and Sefer Hamada, and it culminated in these works being banned and eventually burned. What was it about these works that were so controversial? What social factors led to the appalling book burning? And who was responsible for this? Some of the greatest rabbis of the day were involved in this story. By delving into their writings, we hope to disentangle fact from fiction and learn about the central themes that emerged from this dispute. Banned and Burned: The 1232 Controversy Surrounding Rambam’s Works

86

Remembering and Forgetting: The History of Chof Sivan | Replay

Jun 8, 2023

1:00:46

This day has a sad history of persecution, but also an interesting tendency to be taken seriously at first, only to peter out after some time. Remembering and Forgetting: The History of Chof Sivan | Replay

87

In the Wake of Shabtai Tzvi’s Betrayal

Jun 7, 2023

1:04:34

In the summer of 1666, Shabtai Tzvi’s conversion to Islam shattered hopes and dreams, leaving Jewish communities grappling with the aftermath of a false redeemer. One contentious issue arose in Amsterdam, where leaders debated whether to continue the performance of Birchas Kohanim each Shabbos, initiated during Shabtai’s self-proclaimed messianic era. Rabbi Yaakov Sasportas penned a series of halachic responsa on this matter, tackling the challenge of ideas proposed by flawed individuals and customs initiated by misguided beliefs. In the Wake of Shabtai Tzvi’s Betrayal

88

Women and the Study of Talmud

May 31, 2023

1:10:49

Over the past century, significant changes have occurred in the area of women’s Torah education, but a vibrant and ongoing debate about this subject persists. By exploring the treatment of this matter in the Talmudic sources and throughout Jewish history, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the current landscape, the factors that have shaped it, and the pathways that lie ahead. Women and the Study of Talmud

89

The Lion and the Snake: Tensions Over Artistic Expression in the Medieval Sanctuary

May 17, 2023

1:00:11

Step back in time as we delve into a fascinating story about the Jewish communities of Cologne and Mayence around the period of the First Crusade. We will learn of an uproar caused by an extension to a synagogue adorned with imagery of lions and snakes. We will examine the halachic discussion of whether this violated the command against graven images. The Lion and the Snake: Tensions Over Artistic Expression in the Medieval Sanctuary

90

Rashba’s Rebuttal: Defending Judaism in Medieval Barcelona

May 3, 2023

1:04:40

Rabbi Shlomo ben Aderes (Rashba) took a maximalist position about the eternality of mitzvos, arguing that none of them could ever be suspended, not even in the era of techiyas hameism. But a faction of his rabbinic peers dissented. In this class, we examine the primary sources that are central to this discourse and also analyze the underlying dynamics—namely, the attempt at the time of Christian missionaries to undermine Judaism. This exploration will show how the greatest rabbinic minds responded to this threat and grappled with the more controversial passages of the Talmud and Midrash. Rashba’s Rebuttal: Defending Judaism in Medieval Barcelona

91

Censoring Rambam’s Mishneh Torah in Czarist Russia

Apr 26, 2023

1:01:21

In 1850, an unusual edition of Rambam’s Mishneh Torah was published in czarist Russia. A perusal of this work reveals that it was censored in a peculiar and unprecedented fashion. But what lies behind this story of suppression? Who was responsible for this censorship? And what does it reveal about the tensions in Jewish life at that time? Through a nuanced analysis of the key players and their motivations, we gain a deeper understanding of the internal and external challenges faced by the Jewish community in Czarist Russia in the mid-19th century. Censoring Rambam’s Mishneh Torah in Czarist Russia

92

The Fate of the Marranos

Apr 19, 2023

59:15

In 1636, the Sephardic Jewish community in Amsterdam was embroiled in a heated debate over the fate of their converso relatives residing as Christians in Spain and Portugal. Would those who refuse to emigrate to reembrace Judaism be denied entry into the World to Come? In this class, we will explore the rich tapestry of sources both sides invoked during this intriguing chapter in Jewish history. We will delve into the arguments presented by both sides, gaining insights into the religious and social complexities that confronted Sephardic Jewry during this period. The Fate of the Marranos

93

First Edition: The Rebbe’s References to the 1485 Soncino Haggadah

Mar 29, 2023

57:04

In his commentary on the Haggadah, the Lubavitcher Rebbe referenced many different sources from the vast library of Judaism, but three of them stand out from a bibliographic perspective: three references to the first dated printed edition of the Haggadah. Join us as we learn more about this edition, its historical context, and how the Rebbe used it to sort out some of the famous questions relating to the mah nishtanah, dayeinu, and the wisdom of the wise son. First Edition: The Rebbe’s References to the 1485 Soncino Haggadah

94

Vanished Hero: Exploring the Absence of Moshe in the Haggadah

Mar 22, 2023

1:14:01

Join us for an in-depth discussion exploring the enigmatic absence of Moshe’s name from the Haggadah text. While his name does appear once in the text, this fact alone may not entirely resolve the mystery. We will scrutinize various explanations that have been presented over the past two centuries and analyze what they reveal about their proponents. Vanished Hero: Exploring the Absence of Moshe in the Haggadah

95

The King’s Prayer: A Controversial Statement by a 19th-Century Rabbi

Mar 15, 2023

1:06:40

In today’s episode, we will step back in time to explore the controversy that erupted when a famous rabbi made a controversial statement about Dovid Hamelech and the role of Tehilim in Jewish life. We will dive into the heated discourse and the familiar fault lines it revealed within the Jewish community. We will gain insight into the differing views on the function and place of Torah study versus other forms of Jewish worship and the divergent attitudes about the image of the tzaddik in Jewish life. The King’s Prayer: A Controversial Statement by a 19th-Century Rabbi

96

Zecher vs. Zeicher: Unraveling the Parshas Zachor Mystery

Mar 1, 2023

1:05:03

Join us on this episode as we explore the centuries-old debate surrounding the placement of a tzeirei or segol in the reading for Parshas Zachor. Through the lens of ancient codices and special editions of Chumash, we’ll investigate the origins of this confusion and the reasons why communities began reciting both versions. We’ll also uncover the more profound significance of this divergence and what it can teach us about spiritual growth. Zecher vs. Zeicher: Unraveling the Parshas Zachor Mystery

97

History and Development of the Talmudic Page

Feb 22, 2023

1:05:06

Join us on a journey through the rich history of Talmudic manuscripts and print editions. You will learn that although we don’t have manuscripts that can be definitively dated to before the twelfth century, a discerning eye can use extant manuscripts to hear distinct echoes of much older ones. Delve into the fascinating stories linked to the little-known Spanish and Portuguese printings that coincided with the end of Jewish life on the Iberian Peninsula and to Soncino’s controversial decision to place Tosafos on the page of the Gemara. Discover the introduction of folio numbers by Daniel Bomberg, and join us in the search for the first rabbi to utilize this revolutionary system. Finally, we’ll delve into the heartbreaking story of the burning of the Talmud in 1553 and the draconian censorship that followed, culminating in the notorious Basel edition. This lecture was recorded live by Jewish Multimedia Library, a.k.a. JML, Melbourne, Australia. Many additional recordings are available from their website: www.jml.org.au. History and Development of the Talmudic Page

98

Debating the Death Penalty

Feb 15, 2023

1:10:58

In 1615, the Jewish community in Poland was confronted with a disturbing accusation of murder against one of its members. At the time, contemporary rabbis engaged in a dialogue on the most suitable course of action, debating whether the accused should face capital punishment. This discussion provides insight into the methods employed by rabbinic courts in addressing grave criminal offenses like murder and the criteria they applied in determining when the death penalty was a justifiable judicial response. Additionally, this analysis remains relevant today, as it prompts us to evaluate whether any of these principles and teachings have the potential to inform contemporary debates on the death penalty. Debating the Death Penalty

99

Dividing Tanach into Chapters: A Historical Overview

Feb 8, 2023

1:08:18

The division of Tanach into chapters didn’t originate with Jewish scholars or rabbis. This class surveys when, how, and why this became an accepted and standard Jewish division. We will also hear the voices of those who rejected this system and, on the other hand, those who embraced it. Dedicated in memory of Yaakov Koppel ben Elimelech Hakohen Dividing Tanach into Chapters: A Historical Overview

100

Secrets of a Chozer: An Interview with Rabbi Simon Jacobson

Jan 30, 2023

2:36:02

(0:38) – General Introduction (3:08) – Rabbi Jacobson’s introduction about תורת חב"ד (7:36) – Introduction about himself (18:41) – How he got started in חזרה (21:31) – Getting more involved in תשל"ח as Reb Yoiel’s sidekick (25:34) – Becoming an official מניח in winter תשל"ח (26:27) – First הנחה (28:12) – The nightmare of מקץ תש"מ (35:23) – How הגהה worked (37:01) – How to tell if a random page is מוגה (40:31) – Sichos that were difficult to remember/understand (43:06) – The difficulty of the pre-הקפות farbrengen (45:08) – Why they didn’t divide the task of remembering (45:49) – His role in מאמרים (46:56) – Keys to memory (51:43) – Making a mental map; numbering ideas (54:03) – Demonstrating samples (58:23) – A sharp מענה to a complicated question (1:01:43) – How he took the sharp מענות (1:03:33) – Edits to באתי לגני תש"מ, and the mysterious cutting of the page (1:08:18) – The Rebbe’s כתי"ק about radio (1:14:06) – Did you ever get a galley back from the Rebbe without any corrections? (1:15:03) – Cases when the Rebbe wrote מבהיל (1:23:48) – Working relationship with Reb Yoel (1:26:23) – Defying others to ask the Rebbe a personal question—and it paid off – Yiddish, Hebrew, and other languages – Adapting the spoken word to the written word – Transitioning to a computer in the mid-1980s – The Rebbe choosing fonts – Identifying sources – Sources that have not been found – The struggle and adrenaline rush to keep up with the Rebbe – The science and history of השמטות – When the Rebbe said that certain things should not be printed – Overview of ש"פ פנחס תשמ"ה – Overview of ליל שמח"ת תשמ"ז – The value of the בלתי מוגה even when there’s מוגה – About באתי לגני תשכ"ג Secrets of a Chozer: An Interview with Rabbi Simon Jacobson In honor of shnas hakhel, Unzer-Chadash Shul hosted Rabbi Simon Jacobson and had the opportunity to ask him about his work of remembering, transcribing, and publishing the Rebbe’s sichos. Posted in honor of Yud Shvat.

Classes by Mordechai Dinerman

שיעורים מהרב מרדכי דינרמן