

Episode 145 - Parshat Vaera: Why Enslavement?
Jan 7, 2024
Rabbanit Dr. Adina Sternberg, a lecturer at Bar Ilan's Midrasha and head of the Torah Shabal Pet Department at Ephrata College, dives into Nechama Leibowitz's transformative impact on Torah education. She highlights Leibowitz's unique approach to textual analysis and her ability to blend literary criticism with traditional teachings. The conversation also delves into the educational insights gleaned from the Israelites' enslavement, emphasizing personal growth and the essential role of educators in understanding sacred texts.
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Nechama's Children
- Nechama Leibowitz, married to her uncle, never had children and confided she would have given up her career for them.
- At her funeral, her nephew invited those who felt like sons to join the Kaddish, and thousands did.
Modern-Day Rashi
- Nechama Leibowitz, like Rashi, made complex Torah texts accessible by curating key commentaries and midrashim.
- She facilitated deeper understanding by analyzing their fit with the text and posing insightful questions.
Symphony of Commentary
- Nechama Leibowitz's collation and crafting of commentaries added a unique layer of interpretation, creating a symphony of understanding.
- Her work reminds us not to lose sight of the original text amidst the commentary.