This week on edJEWcation, we dive into the opening chapters of the Book of Samuel—because nothing says Jewish tradition like a barren woman, a holy ark, and a plague of hemorrhoids.

Before we get biblical, we briefly address our deep concern over Brad Pitt's Zionism (verdict: our gut says yes) and tackle a listener question about antisemitism. Rabbi’s answer? Retreat is never the answer. Jewish pride is. And if you're not sure what you're proud of—educate yourself.

Then we jump into the emotional story of Hannah, her desperate prayer, and the miraculous birth of Samuel. We unpack why her story is read on Rosh Hashanah, what it teaches us about how to pray, and how it reshapes our relationship with God (spoiler: it’s not transactional, and He doesn’t want your golden mouse).

We follow Samuel’s unlikely rise as a prophet, his tragic start under Eli’s failing leadership, and the catastrophic decision to bring the Ark into battle. What happens next? The Philistines steal it—and in return, they get divine payback in the most uncomfortable way imaginable.

Other highlights include:

• The Torah’s recurring theme of infertility and what it teaches us about divine purpose

• The difference between monotheistic prayer and pagan appeasement

• Why being a proud Jew matters more than a PR campaign

• The theological implications of airport pickups at 1:15am

Next week, we’ll crown a king and ask: did Judaism really need a monarchy, or were we doing just fine with prophets and judges?