From Beit Lechem to the Royal Ball: Comparing and Contrasting the Book of Ruth and Cinderella, with Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman (249)

Megilat Rut — the Book of Ruth — is one of the most beloved and widely read books in the Hebrew Bible. Because we read it annually on Shavuot, many people are familiar with its basic storyline. But its very familiarity can sometimes obscure its most powerful messages.

In this episode, I’m joined by Rabbi Dr. Joshua Berman of Bar Ilan University, who offers a fascinating lens through which to revisit Ruth’s story: the world’s most popular fairytale — Cinderella. By comparing the two narratives, Rabbi Berman uncovers striking parallels and, more importantly, profound differences that highlight essential Torah values.

This conversation will change how you read Megilat Rut and offer fresh insight into the values that give Jewish life depth, direction, and meaning.

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