The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies Podcast Network

Why are "supporting characters" so vital in Torah narratives?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy explore Parshat Chayei Sarah, focusing on the remarkable qualities of Rivka and Eliezer. Rivka’s extraordinary acts of chesed (kindness) and Eliezer’s unwavering dedication to Avraham’s mission offer profound lessons about leadership, humility, and the power of selfless service in shaping the Jewish narrative.

Featuring:

Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Why might kindness be perceived as weakness, and what does Avraham’s response teach us?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Leon Morris examine Avraham’s moral decisions in Parshat Vayera, focusing on the qualities that led to the downfall of Sodom and Gomorrah. They discuss the values of compassion, justice, and community, exploring how these themes challenge us to address social and ethical issues today. Through classical sources, they unpack Avraham’s example of advocating for others, even amid corruption and cruelty, as a model for our own engagement with society’s challenges.

Featuring:

Rabbi Leon Morris – PresiFFdent of Pardes

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What can Avraham’s journey teach us about finding inner light when surrounded by uncertainty?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Nechama Goldman Barash to delve into Parshat Lech Lecha. They discuss the complex dynamics between Sarai and Hagar, exploring themes of oppression, empathy, and power. Nechama reflects on Avraham’s journey as he grapples with his role in bringing godliness to the world, even without a clear path, and considers how his story challenges us to seek and create light in our own times of darkness.

Featuring:

Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How can we remain hopeful amid life’s turbulent “floodwaters”?

In this week’s Parshat Noach episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Yiscah Smith to explore the relevance of Noah’s story and how, even amid overwhelming turmoil, one can find an “ark” of inner strength and faith. Drawing on the wisdom of Hasidic teachings, they discuss how prayer and deep inner work help us face challenges while remaining connected to the Divine within.

Featuring:

Yiscah Smith – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

This week’s podcast is sponsored by Simonne Abadee in celebration of the beginning of our creation, the new year, and a new reading of our Torah, offering the chance to engage anew in our learning.

Ten years ago, Simonne came to Pardes and immersed herself in Torah learning. Through this, a whole new world of life opened up to her. She has chosen to sponsor this episode in recognition of Pardes for providing her—and many others—with the opportunity to connect with our history, laws, and customs.

How does the story of Cain and Abel set the stage for human relationships throughout the Torah?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Judy Klitsner delve into Parashat Bereshit, exploring the complex relationship between Cain and Abel. They examine how this foundational story of siblings sheds light on deeper human conflicts and struggles, both personal and communal. Through classical commentaries and modern insights, they unpack the Torah’s teachings on rivalry, responsibility, and reconciliation, with lessons that resonate profoundly today.

Additionally, they introduce the newly launched Sefaria source sheet collection Ta'amei HaPardes, a valuable resource for further learning and exploration.

Explore the collection.

 

Featuring:

Judy Klitsner – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How can embracing vulnerability lead to a deeper sense of joy during Sukkot?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy delve into the paradox of Sukkot, exploring how vulnerability and joy are deeply intertwined in the festival. They discuss how the temporary nature of the sukkah highlights the fragility of life and how embracing that fragility can lead to a deeper connection with God and greater joy. Through poetry and classical texts, they uncover the spiritual richness that comes from living in the balance of uncertainty and divine protection.

Featuring:

Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What role does vulnerability play in the Yom Kippur process of teshuvah?

In this Yom Kippur-focused episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Elisha Ancselovits explore how to approach this sacred day following a year marked by deep pain and loss. They discuss the challenges of asking for forgiveness in the shadow of such suffering and offer guidance on shifting from anger to gratitude. Through thoughtful conversation, they offer insights into how we can navigate fear and find meaning in the rituals of Yom Kippur.

Featuring:

Rabbi Dr. Elisha Ancsalovits – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

This Rosh Hashana podcast is sponsored by Ricki and Dr. David I. Bernstein in memory of Ricki’s parents, Beatrice and Murray Kirschblat z”l, survivors of Auschwitz and Buchenwald, respectively. Beatrice and Murray were each the sole survivors of large families which perished in the Shoah. Their resilience and courage in building a family after such loss is a powerful testament to their strength. May the Torah we explore today serve as a blessing to their memory.

How can we find hope and renewal during a challenging Rosh Hashanah season?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Brent Spodek discuss the deep challenges of approaching Rosh Hashanah after a particularly difficult year. They explore how the themes of repentance, forgiveness, and covenant can help us navigate our feelings of despair, frustration, and anger. Through classical sources and personal reflections, they offer pathways for reconnecting with our tradition, our community, and ourselves during the High Holidays.

Featuring:

Rabbi Brent Spodek – Pardes Faculty and Rabbi Emeritus of Beacon Hebrew Alliance

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How do words of encouragement shape Joshua’s leadership and the future of the Jewish people?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Aviva Lauer explore Parshat Vayelech, focusing on the leadership transition from Moshe to Yehoshua. Join them and dive into the significance of the repeated phrase "chazak ve’amatz" (be strong and brave) and how Moshe and God empower Yehoshua to step into his new role. Listen as they discuss the importance of cultivating a culture of encouragement (firgun) within communities and how it impacts both leadership and personal growth.

Featuring:

Aviva Lauer – Pardes Chief Education Officer

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Raphael Polisuk delve into the covenant ceremony at Har Grizim and Har Eval in Parshat Ki Tavo. They explore how this moment of blessings and curses establishes a collective responsibility among the Jewish people and its significance as they enter the land. Through classic commentaries, they examine the challenges of building a shared moral framework and the relevance of this covenant in today's Jewish world.

Featuring:

Rabbi Raphael Polisuk – Pardes Faculty

Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem