Talking Talmud

Aligning Tiberias and Tzipori (and Ginosar) with other places named in the Bible (of course, debatable). One of the ways of proving the case was from eulogies for those who had enough renown to be mourned in both Israel and Babylonia. Plus, a note that Edom was used as a stand-in for Rome, and antipathy to Edom reflected Chazal's antipathy to Rome. Also, differences between Adar I and Adar II. And the special parshiot that are read a few weeks before Purim and thereafter. (What if you goof in the timing??) And important proximity to Nisan (which is to say, Pesach) over Shevat* (recorded as Tevet in a verbal typo).

A new mishnah! What is considered a "large city"? [Including What's What on the "10 batlanim"] And how these days of gathering carry implications as joyous days (with regard to fasting and eulogies). Plus, several statements in the name of R. Abba (and R. Shmuel), on how we keep track of time. Also, the actions of R. Yehudah HaNasi... On Purim specifically, and the many actions that bring joy... and when we fast, and more. Why was planting on Purim acceptable?

The Gemara notes: The women were part of the miracle of Purim, and are therefore obligated in reading the megillah. Also, speaking about the specific day on the given day. Plus, a question on intergenerational Gemara conversation. And reading the megillah at night and in the day. Also, questioning the mishnah's moving of the day megillah would be read. Plus, why we don't read megillah on Shabbat, ever.

Translations of the Torah into Aramaic, the vernacular of the time - the authoritative versions were ascribed to Onkelos (on Torah) and Yonatan ben Uziel (on Prophets). [Who's Who - for both of them] Also, the place of reading the megillah in comparison to other mitzvot, from learning Torah to caring for a "meit mitzvah" to welcoming a bride. Plus, the factor of publicizing a miracle.

Introducing... Megillah. What are the dates when Megillat Esther may be read - beyond the 14th (Purim) and 15th (Shushan Purim). Which brings us the categories of the cities, towns, walled cities, and villages. Plus, the linguistic analysis that allows for all those possible dates.

Closing the tractate with the joy of the 15th of Av, including the burial of Beitar, and the girls dancing in the vineyard, with the young men who seek them out - a little less selfless and judgemental than we might have thought. Plus, the dancing of the righteous, and the salvation wrought by God, for them.

The mourning practices of Tisha B'Av, a clear prescription for the experience of the day. Including not learning Torah. Plus, customs for Erev Tisha B'Av. And the impact of the mourning practices. Also, shifting to happy days - the 15th of Av and Yom Kippur, including why these days are considered joyous - some reasons as the essence of the given day, and the historical events affiliated with the day.

The various historical events that took place, as accepted by tradition, on the 9th of Av, including some wrenching stories, including on the topic of intentional martyrdom.

Rosh Chodesh Tevet had no ma'amad service. Why would this day be exempt? What was to be expected on Rosh Chodesh? Plus, Hanukkah. How is it different from Nisan? Where does Hallel fit in? Plus, what happened on the 17th of Tammuz

Ma'amadot - and their Torah source. The cycle of groups coming from Jerusalem, Jericho, and locations throughout the Land of Israel. Plus, what is essential for the korban to happen? As connected to the songs that were sung in the Temple every day. Also, the connection between Creation and the ma'amadot, and the interaction between Avraham and God, at the brit bein ha-betarim. Also, reading korbanot as part of davening in the morning. And who gets prayed for when. Among other tidbits.