The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies Podcast Network

What does Pesach teach us about freedom, growth, and responsibility?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Rabbi Dr. Irving (Yitz) Greenberg for a special conversation on Parshat Tzav, the sacrificial system, and the deeper messages of Pesach. They explore how Judaism's vision of life, covenant, and moral progress plays out through laws like kashrut and the evolution of sacrifice. Drawing from Rabbi Greenberg’s new book The Triumph of Life, they examine how Torah guides us toward a future where life, dignity, and ethical living prevail.

Featuring

Rabbi Dr. Irving (Yitz) Greenberg – Senior Fellow, Hadar Institute

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What can the cycle of giving teach us about our relationship with the Divine?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Rabbi Leon Morris to explore the opening of Sefer Vayikra (Leviticus) and the relevance of the ancient sacrificial system for modern Jewish life. Together, they delve into the idea of korbanot (sacrifices) as a form of gift-giving to God, examining themes of gratitude, relationship, and community. Their discussion offers timely reflections as we prepare for the upcoming book of Vayikra.

FeaturingRabbi Leon Morris – President, PardesZvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Why does the Torah spend so much time repeating the Mishkan’s details?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Rafael Polisuk explore Parshat Pekudei and its surprising focus on repetition and detail. They unpack the final verses of Sefer Shemot, showing that Torah isn’t just divine instruction but a living, doable path woven into daily life.

Featuring:

Rabbi Rafael Polisuk – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How do we create a Jewish community that honors different perspectives?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Ilana Gleicher-Bloom explore Parshat Vayakhel and its vision of community. They discuss how Moshe transforms Bnei Yisrael from a fragmented group into a unified Kehilah through the shared mission of building the Mishkan. Drawing on insights from Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, they examine the tension between pluralism and ideological divides—both in the Torah and in today's Jewish world—and ask what it takes to build a true, inclusive community.

Featuring

Ilana Gleicher-Bloom – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Can true growth come from mistakes?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy explore Parshat Ki Tisa and the dramatic episode of the Golden Calf. They examine why the Israelites fell so quickly after Sinai, the connection between the Mishkan and their spiritual crisis, and how this moment reshaped their relationship with God.

Featuring

Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What does the Torah actually mean by ‘wiping out Amalek’?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Elisha Anscelovits explore the Torah’s commandment to wipe out Amalek, examining its historical, practical, and ethical dimensions. As Purim approaches, they discuss how these themes shape our understanding of justice, deterrence, and moral responsibility today.

Featuring:

Rabbi Dr. Elisha Anscelovits – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

This week's episode is in memory of Beth Wasserman z"l and sponsored by her nephew and his family.

Why does God command a physical space if God is everywhere?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Brent Spodek explore Parshat Terumah, diving into the meaning behind the Mishkan and its relevance today. They discuss the tension between tradition and innovation, the need for both structure and spiritual seeking, and how sacred spaces—physical or internal—help us connect to the divine.

Featuring:

Rabbi Brent Spodek – Pardes North American Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

This podcast is sponsored in memory of Morris L. Kramer, a beloved friend and an ohev Yisrael

How does the Torah balance law with compassion?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash explore Parshat Mishpatim, examining its legal framework and ethical dilemmas. They discuss how Jewish tradition navigates justice, responsibility, and moral complexity, with a focus on the Torah’s nuanced approach to abortion. The conversation highlights the balance between valuing life, acknowledging human struggle, and fostering compassion.

Featuring

Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What does Yitro teach us about choosing Torah instead of receiving it by force?

Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Michael Hattin explore Parshat Yitro, highlighting the contrast between Amalek’s hostility and Yitro’s embrace of the Jewish people. They discuss Yitro’s journey as an outsider who willingly joins Israel, offering a model for choosing Torah rather than receiving it by force. The conversation explores obligation, free will, and how we cultivate a personal connection to Torah.

Featuring

Rabbi Michael Hattin – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Can we celebrate victory while holding onto pain?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy explore Parshat Beshalach, focusing on the tension between triumph and uncertainty. They discuss Shirat HaYam as both a song of victory and a reminder of the fragility of history, reflecting on how the Jewish people struggled to embrace freedom even after crossing the sea.

Featuring

Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy – Rosh Bet Midrash, Pardes Institute

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem