Episode 111: Reb Zvi Goldstein "The End of Days"

We’re thrilled to welcome Reb Zvi Goldstein to the podcast for an in-depth exploration of three monumental topics in Jewish thought: Mashiach, Olam Haba, and Techiyat HaMetim. These concepts are often conflated, particularly in discussions about reuniting with loved ones who’ve passed away. The Rambam delves deep into each category, and we’re here to untangle these ideas and gain a clearer understanding of his views. We start with the Rambam’s take on Mashiach, delving into what it means for Mashiach to be the natural consequence of mitzvot and the proof required to recognize him. Is Mashiach an actual king, a political leader, or something else? How do Eliyahu HaNavi, the rebuilding of the Beit HaMikdash, and the Sanhedrin fit into this vision? And what about resurrection—does it precede or follow Mashiach’s arrival? Reb Zvi helps us piece together these intricate layers of Jewish eschatology. We also explore the Rambam’s perspective on Olam Haba, including his view of the eternal soul as pure information and the urgency of maximizing our one chance at life. We discuss the risks of literalism in mystical texts like the Zohar and how Lurianic Kabbalah has reshaped perceptions of Jewish esotericism. Finally, we tackle the controversial topic of korbanot in the Messianic era. The Rambam’s view—that animal sacrifices serve an essential psychological and spiritual purpose—has been the dominant position in Jewish tradition. In contrast, Rav Kook’s vision of evolving toward vegetarian offerings stands as a modern and less widely accepted perspective. Together, we examine the tension between these views, the enduring relevance of sacrifices, and the profound lessons they teach about human nature and divine law. This episode will challenge your assumptions and provide plenty of food for thought.

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• Bio: Zvi Goldstein, known by his pen name xvi Kaizen, is a distinguished thinker at the intersection of traditional Jewish scholarship and contemporary rational thought. As the Principal of Ontic Capital, an algorithmic trading firm, Zvi combines analytical rigor and economic insight with his philosophical pursuits. Zvi holds a BA from Hebrew Theological College and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. His academic journey is enriched by Talmudic studies at Yeshiva University, Yeshivat Har Etzion, Hebrew Theological College, and Yeshivat Maor Tuvia in Mitzpe Yericho. Zvi teaches a rational approach to Judaism, drawing inspiration primarily from Maimonides' Guide for the Perplexed. His notable work, "Summary of the Guide for the Perplexed," aims to make Maimonides' ideas accessible by distilling the main points of the work into clear and concise discussions. Zvi argues that this philosophy offers relevant approaches to many contemporary issues of faith in the modern world. Zvi finds personal fulfillment in his life with his wife Sari and their children in Puerto Rico.---• Welcome to JUDAISM DEMYSTIFIED: A PODCAST FOR THE PERPLEXED | Co-hosted by Benjy & Benzi | Thank you to...Super Patron: Jordan Karmily, Platinum Patron: Craig Gordon, Gold Patrons: Dovidchai Abramchayev, Lazer Cohen, Travis Krueger, Vasili Volkoff, Rod Ilian, Silver Patrons: Ellen Fleischer, Daniel Maksumov, Rabbi Pinny Rosenthal, Fred & Antonio, Jeffrey Wasserman, and Jacob Winston! Please SUBSCRIBE to this YouTube Channel and hit the BELL so you can get alerted whenever new clips get posted, thank you for your support!