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

How can memory both guide and hinder us? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rachel Goldberg-Polin explore Parshat Bo through the lens of memory, mahloket (disagreement), and the importance of constructive conflict. They discuss how memory can either ground or entrap us, the art of listening as a transformative tool, and how Jewish tradition values diverse perspectives. This episode uses Pardes’ Mahloket Matters methodology to navigate complex disagreements, offering valuable tools for constructive dialogue. Learn more about Mahloket Matters.

This week’s podcast is sponsored in memory of Dr. Jack Jaffe, Yaakov Zev ben Elchanon. Doctor, community leader, and fervent Zionist. Sponsored by his children, Ari and Marlyn, Reva and Sheldon, Leah and Simon, and Ezra and Marla, as well as his 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Can difficult conversations foster growth? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Aviva Lauer examine Parshat Vaera through the lens of conflict, focusing on the ongoing mahloket (dispute) between God and Pharaoh. They explore Moshe's role as an emissary, the dynamics of hardening hearts, and how God’s approach to Pharaoh models lessons for engaging in difficult conversations. With connections to contemporary struggles, they emphasize the importance of seeing the bigger picture and humanizing our opponents. This episode uses Pardes' Mahloket Matters methodology to navigate complex disagreements, offering valuable tools for constructive dialogue. Learn more about Mahloket Matters.

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Yiscah Smith explore Parshat Shemot, the beginning of the Book of Exodus, focusing on the spiritual and physical challenges of the Jewish people's exile in Egypt. They discuss the transition from individual to communal identity, the dangers of spiritual complacency, and Moses’ transformative journey to leadership. Featuring Yiscah Smith – Pardes Faculty Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Are Jacob’s final words blessings, prophecies, or something else entirely? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash delve into Parshat Vayechi, focusing on Jacob's final blessings to his sons. They explore the complex nature of these "blessings," their poetic and cryptic language, and their implications for family dynamics and tribal destinies. The discussion also reflects on the significance of blessing in Jewish tradition and its transformative power. Featuring Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash – Pardes Faculty Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How does Yosef’s strategy with his brothers reveal his true intentions? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Daniel Reifman discuss Yosef’s reunion with his brothers in Parshat Vayigash. They explore Judah’s role in repairing family bonds, Yosef’s intentions, and the enduring lessons of forgiveness and reconciliation. Featuring: Rabbi Dr. Daniel Reifman – Pardes Faculty Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How does Yosef’s ability to interpret dreams reflect his growth as a leader? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy delve into Parshat Miketz, exploring Yosef's extraordinary journey from the prison to Pharaoh's court. They discuss the transformative power of trust (bitachon) and effort (hishtadlus), how Yosef’s interpretations highlight his personal growth, and the profound interplay of divine providence and human initiative. They also draw connections between Parshat Miketz and the themes of light, darkness, and renewal that align with Hanukkah. Featuring: Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy – Rosh Beit Midrash, Pardes Institute Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Could the animosity between Yosef and his brothers have been avoided through different choices? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Ilana Gleicher-Bloom delve into the complex family dynamics of Yaakov, Yosef, and his brothers in Parshat Vayeshev. They explore how favoritism, communication breakdowns, and perceived inevitabilities lead to choices with profound consequences. Reflecting on Yosef’s dreams and the actions of his family, they examine the tension between destiny and human agency. Could these relationships have turned out differently? Featuring: Ilana Gleicher-Bloom – Pardes Faculty and Director of the Experiential Educators Program Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What can Yaakov's struggle teach us about the complexities of identity and faith? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Michael Hattin delve into Yaakov’s dramatic encounter with the mysterious "Ish" in Parshat Vayishlach. They explore themes of personal transformation, the meaning of Yaakov's name change to Yisrael, and how this pivotal moment reflects the collective struggle and destiny of the Jewish people. Featuring: Rabbi Michael Hattin – Pardes Faculty Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

How does the Torah guide us to create sacred spaces in moments of transition and uncertainty? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Rafael Polisuk explore Yaakov’s profound journey in Parshat Vayetze. Together, they delve into Yaakov's encounter with the "Makom"—a sacred space where the displaced patriarch begins to find his grounding. Through this narrative, they examine themes of divine presence, the holiness of place, and how spiritual moments sustain us through challenges. Featuring: Rabbi Rafael Polisuk – Pardes Faculty Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

What do Yitzchak’s blessings teach us about the balance of power between Yaakov and Esav? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Rabbi Dr. Elisha Ancselovits to unpack the intricate dynamics between Yaakov and Esav in Parshat Toldot. They explore the meaning behind Yitzchak’s blessings, the cycles of conflict and cooperation, and what these interactions reveal about power, resource sharing, and mutual dependence. Together, they challenge conventional interpretations of good versus evil and examine how this narrative offers timeless wisdom for navigating complex relationships and changing realities. Featuring: Rabbi Dr. Elisha Ancselovits – Pardes Faculty Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

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