On today's episode of The Jewish Times, host Jeff Silberblatt welcomes a distinguished rabbinic roundtable featuring Rabbi Peter Berg, Rabbi Ari Kaiman, and Rabbi Ilan Feldman. Together, they explore pivotal questions from the Bible, Torah, and Jewish tradition. From the historical and spiritual narratives of the Maccabees to the debate over the Torah’s truth, the conversation delves into topics that shape Jewish identity and belief. The discussion examines the concept of the Messiah, the significance of keeping kosher, and how varying interpretations of Jewish law influence contemporary practice. Don’t miss this episode.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:30] Three rabbis with different points of view 
• [2:40] Discussion of Hanukkah
• [8:23] Is the Torah true or embellished
• [12:51] Who is the Messiah
• [15:42] To stay kosher, or not
• [17:58] A discussion of kosher practice and rules

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The narratives of Hanukkah in 1 and 2 Maccabees focus on historical events and the Sukkot festival, contrasting with the oil miracle emphasized in the Talmud, reflecting the richness and complexity of Jewish storytelling.
• Hanukkah highlights the importance of embracing its historical and spiritual narratives, emphasizing light and divine inspiration in Jewish identity while asserting Jewish values, resisting assimilation, and upholding principles of morality and divine authority.
• Keeping kosher elevates eating into a spiritual practice, highlighting the connection between Jewish traditions, food, moral responsibility toward animals and the Torah.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Jewish Time -  Podcast

Atlanta Jewish Times - Website

Atlanta Jewish Times - Facebook

Atlanta Jewish Times - YouTube

Rabbi Peter S. Berg - The Temple

Rabbi Kaiman - Congregation Shearith Israel

Rabbinic Staff - Beth Jacob Atlanta

BIOGRAPHIES: 

Rabbi Ilan D. Feldman, Senior Rabbi at Beth Jacob Atlanta, has served the community since 1980, succeeding his father in 1991. He founded Torah Day School of Atlanta, helped establish the Atlanta Scholars Kollel, and serves as Dean of the Atlanta Kashruth Commission. Ordained at Ner Israel Rabbinical College, Rabbi Feldman holds a degree in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University, combining religious and practical guidance in his counseling work.

Rabbi Ari Kaiman began his rabbinic career at Congregation B'nai Amoona in St. Louis and has served as Rabbi at Congregation Shearith Israel since 2016. He fosters a culture of volunteerism and inclusivity, emphasizing diverse pathways to meaningful Jewish living, including prayer, learning, and social action. A proud Zionist, Rabbi Kaiman envisions a future of peace for all in the region. He and his wife, Emily, have four children and enjoy hiking, CrossFit, and reading.

Rabbi Ilan D. Feldman, Senior Rabbi at Beth Jacob Atlanta, has served the community since 1980, succeeding his father in 1991. He founded Torah Day School of Atlanta, helped establish the Atlanta Scholars Kollel, and serves as Dean of the Atlanta Kashruth Commission. Ordained at Ner Israel Rabbinical College, Rabbi Feldman holds a degree in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University, combining religious and practical guidance in his counseling work.