Parsha in Progress

By Tablet Magazine

Religion & Spirituality Spirituality Judaism

What's Parsha in Progress about?

Parsha in Progress is the latest podcast by Tablet Magazine. Perfect for anyone interested in the Bible, every other week hosts Rabbi Dov Linzer and author Abigail Pogrebin, an Orthodox rabbi and a Reform Jew, delve into a Biblical issue and story, and discuss how this ancient text takes on modern meaning and brings modern challenges. With humor, love, and insight, these focused discussions follow the schedule of the weekly parsha readings in synagogue.

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Parsha in Progress episodes:

09.21.2020
Why Torah is Like the Rain (Ha'azinu): Ep. 54
This week, we conclude the full cycle of parshas with a candid reflection on the end of the podcast, and a consideration of what makes poetry a powerful vehicle for divine messages.
09.07.2020
In Your Mouth and in Your Heart (Nitzavim): Ep. 53
This week, we discuss the poetic insistence of the Bible that every Jew should be able to feel ownership over the Torah's message.
08.24.2020
Wayward Sons and Kidnapped Women (Ki Tetzei): Ep. 52
This week, we have a lot of questions and few answers as we read some of the Bible's more unsettling passages, and consider what we could learn from situations we hope never actually happen.
08.10.2020
Is Compassion Extra Credit? (Re'eh): Ep. 51
This week, we debate what it means to "not shut your heart" against the needy, and why compassion is no substitute for justice when it comes to righting social wrongs.
07.27.2020
Why Did God Keep Moses From Entering Israel? (Vaetchanan): Ep. 50
This week, we discuss the importance of Mount Sinai in collective Jewish memory, and why Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land, even though he led the people out of Egypt.
07.13.2020
Did God Break a Promise? Did We? (Maatot-Maasei): Ep. 49
This week, we discuss whether it was a betrayal to make the Exodus generation die in the desert, and debate whether their sin of doubting the goodness of the land earlier in the Bible is similar to Jews hesitant to...
06.29.2020
What do we do when we see evil unpunished? (Balak), Ep: 48
This week, we consider whether one can ever take the law into their own hands, and the pitfalls of vigilante justice.
06.22.2020
Is Democracy Always the Divine Plan? (Korach): Ep. 47
This week, we look at the rebellion of Korach, who tried to oust Moses as leader by claiming he was no holier than the rest of the Israelites, and consider Moses' unique reaction.
06.08.2020
Who deserves to be cut off? (Beha'alotcha): Ep. 46
This week, we look at one of the Bible's most severe punishments, that of being "cut off" from the people, and consider what actions today might separate someone from the Jewish community.
05.25.2020
The Daily Call of Mount Sinai (Shavuot): Ep. 45
This week, we return to Mount Sinai to celebrate the holiday of Shavuot, and debate what it means to say that every day, Jews must recommit to the contract.
05.18.2020
Remembering the Individuals Among the Crowds (Bamidbar): Ep. 44
This week, we look through the seemingly endless lists of names, numbers, and detailed descriptions of camp formations in the desert, and ask why the Bible felt this information was so important for us to know.
05.11.2020
When Productivity Got Cancelled Biblically (Behar): Ep 43
This week, we consider the sacrifices that go alongside growth and renewal, and how the commandment to let the earth rest impacted Biblical society, with insights into how those same implications play out today.
04.20.2020
Should Jews be Holy, or Good? (Kedoshim): Ep. 42
This week we argue about whether ethical acts are equal to ritual ones, and if it’s more admirable to act because God commanded it, or because it’s simply the right thing to do.
04.13.2020
When Biblical Demands Seem Cruel (Metzorah): Ep. 41
This week we revisit the rituals of reentry, and how the metzorah (expelling the infected) feels cruel, but maybe—especially in light of today’s pandemic—it was prescient.
03.30.2020
The Miracle of Jewish Survival (Tzav): Ep. 40
This week, we discuss the eternal flame lit in the Temple, and whether the miracle of Jewish endurance is a good reason to stay Jewish.
03.16.2020
When Your Heart Moves You (and When It Doesn't) (Vayahel Pekudei): Ep 39
This week we discuss why the Israelites so freely donated their time and money to build the Tabernacle, and whether volunteer work is best focused on one's community or those outside it.
03.02.2020
Can Fashion Choices Be Holy? (Tetzaveh): Ep 38
This week we discuss the Bible's detailed descriptions of the High Priest vestments, and why clothing is such a powerful site of identity for many people.
02.17.2020
Who Doesn't Love the Stranger? (Mishpatim): Ep. 37
This week, we ask who really counts as the stranger and whether the answer upends the idea of compassion.
01.27.2020
When Children Die By God’s Command. (Bo): Ep. 36
This week, we discuss the final plague of Egypt, and the impulse to provide bad answers to good questions.
01.20.2020
Is God a Show-Off? (Va'era): Ep. 35
This week, we discuss the purpose of the Ten Plagues, and why God didn’t expedite the whole Exodus-from-Egypt thing.
01.13.2020
Take One from Tablet Magazine
Parsha in Progress is off this week, so instead we're introducing you to Take One, the new Daf Yomi podcast from Tablet Magazine hosted by Liel Leibovitz. As Jews around the world begin a new seven-and-a-half year cycle of Daf Yomi,...
12.30.2019
When Should Leaders Cry? (Vayigash): Ep. 34
This week, we discuss why Joseph is the one who cries the hardest.
12.16.2019
Do Dreams Tell Your Future? (Miketz): Ep. 33
This week, we discuss Pharaoh's odd visions and why dream interpretation was such a hot Biblical qualification for leadership.
12.02.2019
Loved and Unloved Wives (Vayetzei): Ep. 32
This week, Dov and Abby discuss sibling rivalry, the pain of infertility, and whether or not Genesis would pass the Bechdel test.
11.18.2019
Rebecca’s Well of Kindness (Chayei Sarah): Ep. 31
This week, Dov and Abby discuss kindness, cruelty, camels, and the trait they think every marriage requires.
11.04.2019
We Are All Abraham (Lech Lecha): Ep. 30
This week, Dov and Abby wonder what it would mean if we all had the potential to be an Abraham, and how the divine promise of Israel lives on in Israeli politics.
10.28.2019
Wiping out Humanity — God’s Regret (Noach): Ep. 29
This week, Dov and Abby discuss why Noah is considered worthy enough to be the last man standing and the FIRST human to restart humanity. Why did God gave up on his own creation so fast, and how can Noah...
10.14.2019
End of the Mountain (V'zot HaBracha): Ep. 28
This week, Dov and Abby reflect on the last parsha of the Torah, and the concluding message of Moses and the verses.
09.30.2019
Can God Promise Sin? (Vayelech): Ep. 27
This week, Dov and Abby discuss God's insistence that the people of Israel will go astray when they enter the Promised Land, and consider the role of free will in sin.
09.16.2019
On Fruits and Plaster (Ki Tavo): Ep. 26
This week, Dov and Abby consider the difference between requiring people to sacrifice their first fruits to God and requiring them to write out the Torah in public, as the Israelites prepare to enter the Land of Israel.
09.02.2019
The Kings and the Torah (Shoftim): Ep. 25
This week, Dov and Abby discuss the laws in the Bible regulating kingship, and what it means to be a moral leader.
08.19.2019
Does God Require Gratitude? (Eikev): Ep. 24
This week, Abby and Dov consider the biblical warning against pride and the importance of cultivating gratitude
08.05.2019
Why The Bible Repeats Itself (Devarim): Ep. 23
This week, Dov and Abby discuss the strange features of the book of Deuteronomy, and the costs and benefits of retelling national stories
07.22.2019
When Daughters Talk Back (Pinchas): Ep. 22
This week, Dov and Abby consider the five daughters of Zelophechad, who asked to be allowed to inherit their father’s land as daughters, and examine when pushing back on injustice reaps rewards.
07.08.2019
Water From A Rock (Chukat): Ep 21
This week, Dov and Abby discuss why exactly Moses was denied entry into the promised land, and whether he got enough recognition for his leadership.
06.24.2019
Where There Be Giants (Shlach): Ep. 20
This week, Dov and Abby consider whether reliance on divine miracles is risky or brave, by analyzing the different actions of the Israelite spies sent to investigate the land of Canaan.
06.10.2019
When Sacred Texts Demand Sexist Acts (Naso): Ep. 19
This week, Dov and Abby disagree over whether unethical Bible passages should be reinterpreted, or disregarded, in modern times.
05.27.2019
Can Punishment Be Holy? (Bechukotai): Ep. 18
This week, Dov and Abby look at the list of punishments promised for violating God’s commandments, and question the value of religious activity motivated by fear
05.13.2019
What Does Charity Mean? (Emor): Ep. 17
This week, Dov and Abby look at the Bible’s practical guides for giving to those in need, and considers how different ways of giving manifest today. You can email us at [email protected] Find out more at http://tabletmag.com/parshainprogress
04.29.2019
Offloading of Sins (Achrei Mot): Ep. 16
This week, Dov and Abby discuss the scapegoat who is sent to die for the sins of the people of Israel, and debate how the Torah can guide us in our own grappling with guilt and forgiveness. You can email us...
04.15.2019
Broken Tablets (Passover Reading): Ep. 15
Are second chances always second best? This week, Dov and Abby consider the aftermath of the broken tablets, and how humans can be partners in our own destinies.
04.01.2019
Banishing the Sick (Tazria): Ep. 14
How do we understand biblical commands that seem cruel? This week, we discuss the Biblical response to physical ailments, focusing on the case of the "metzorah" who is diagnosed with a skin disease and then sent to live outside the...
03.18.2019
Nadav and Abihu (Shemini): Ep. 13
In this episode, Dov and Abby discuss the death of two sons of Aaron the High Priest, killed by divine fire for offering an unrequested "strange fire" on the altar, and consider why the zealous worship of God can often...
03.04.2019
Animal Sacrifices (Vayikra): Ep. 12
In this episode, Dov and Abby discuss the commandment to offer animal sacrifices, and consider the spiritual possibilities and detriments of sacrificial worship.
02.18.2019
The Golden Calf (Ki Tisa): Ep. 11
In this episode, Dov and Abby discuss the sin of the Golden Calf, and consider why the sin against God demanded such a harsh punishment.
02.04.2019
Does God Need a House? (Terumah): Ep. 10
This episode discusses how it can be more difficult to connect with God in synagogue than, say, nature (which is how Dov feels), but also how the beauty and community of a synagogue makes it easier for some to be...
01.24.2019
The Ten Commandments (Yitro): Ep. 9
This week, we discuss the ten commandments and consider how this text became foundational to understanding the Jewish relationship to God.
01.10.2019
The Crossing of the Red Sea (Beshalach): Ep. 8
This week we delve into the Song of the Sea, the Biblical poem which celebrates the drowning of the Egyptians and the Israelite exodus from Egypt, and whose central message has been reinterpreted throughout centuries of Jewish history.
12.27.2018
The Early Life of Moses (Shemot): Ep. 7
This week we discuss leadership in action, looking at the early life of Moses and considering the challenges of cultivating fierce ideological commitment alongside a deep and personal concern for individuals.
12.13.2018
Good, Evil, and the Riddle of Free Will (Vayechi): Ep 6
Parshat Vayechi: Are humans the instruments of God, or are we responsible for our own actions? This week, we’re discussing the moment when Joseph acknowledges the evil his brothers did to him while assuring them that God used their actions...

What's Parsha in Progress about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Parsha in Progress episodes:

Why Torah is Like the Rain (Ha'azinu): Ep. 54

In Your Mouth and in Your Heart (Nitzavim): Ep. 53

Wayward Sons and Kidnapped Women (Ki Tetzei): Ep. 52

Is Compassion Extra Credit? (Re'eh): Ep. 51

Why Did God Keep Moses From Entering Israel? (Vaetchanan): Ep. 50

Did God Break a Promise? Did We? (Maatot-Maasei): Ep. 49

What do we do when we see evil unpunished? (Balak), Ep: 48

Is Democracy Always the Divine Plan? (Korach): Ep. 47

Who deserves to be cut off? (Beha'alotcha): Ep. 46

The Daily Call of Mount Sinai (Shavuot): Ep. 45

Remembering the Individuals Among the Crowds (Bamidbar): Ep. 44

When Productivity Got Cancelled Biblically (Behar): Ep 43

Should Jews be Holy, or Good? (Kedoshim): Ep. 42

When Biblical Demands Seem Cruel (Metzorah): Ep. 41

The Miracle of Jewish Survival (Tzav): Ep. 40

When Your Heart Moves You (and When It Doesn't) (Vayahel Pekudei): Ep 39

Can Fashion Choices Be Holy? (Tetzaveh): Ep 38

Who Doesn't Love the Stranger? (Mishpatim): Ep. 37

When Children Die By God’s Command. (Bo): Ep. 36

Is God a Show-Off? (Va'era): Ep. 35

Take One from Tablet Magazine

When Should Leaders Cry? (Vayigash): Ep. 34

Do Dreams Tell Your Future? (Miketz): Ep. 33

Loved and Unloved Wives (Vayetzei): Ep. 32

Rebecca’s Well of Kindness (Chayei Sarah): Ep. 31

We Are All Abraham (Lech Lecha): Ep. 30

Wiping out Humanity — God’s Regret (Noach): Ep. 29

End of the Mountain (V'zot HaBracha): Ep. 28

Can God Promise Sin? (Vayelech): Ep. 27

On Fruits and Plaster (Ki Tavo): Ep. 26

The Kings and the Torah (Shoftim): Ep. 25

Does God Require Gratitude? (Eikev): Ep. 24

Why The Bible Repeats Itself (Devarim): Ep. 23

When Daughters Talk Back (Pinchas): Ep. 22

Water From A Rock (Chukat): Ep 21

Where There Be Giants (Shlach): Ep. 20

When Sacred Texts Demand Sexist Acts (Naso): Ep. 19

Can Punishment Be Holy? (Bechukotai): Ep. 18

What Does Charity Mean? (Emor): Ep. 17

Offloading of Sins (Achrei Mot): Ep. 16

Broken Tablets (Passover Reading): Ep. 15

Banishing the Sick (Tazria): Ep. 14

Nadav and Abihu (Shemini): Ep. 13

Animal Sacrifices (Vayikra): Ep. 12

The Golden Calf (Ki Tisa): Ep. 11

Does God Need a House? (Terumah): Ep. 10

The Ten Commandments (Yitro): Ep. 9

The Crossing of the Red Sea (Beshalach): Ep. 8

The Early Life of Moses (Shemot): Ep. 7

Good, Evil, and the Riddle of Free Will (Vayechi): Ep 6