

Jewish History with Rabbi Dr. Dovid Katz
Rabbi Dr. Dovid Katz
To help support this podcast, please consider giving a tax deductible contribution here:
https://thechesedfund.com/rabbikatz
Rabbi Dovid Katz, PhD is lauded for his extensive knowledge of Jewish History, his engaging and insightful lecture series, and eye opening historical international tours.
Follow him weekly. New content released each week, including Personalities in Jewish History, Insights into Tefillah and Perspectives on the Haftarah and Parshah. Sponsorships of podcasts are available. He can be reached at the following email: rabbidkatz@gmail.com.
https://thechesedfund.com/rabbikatz
Rabbi Dovid Katz, PhD is lauded for his extensive knowledge of Jewish History, his engaging and insightful lecture series, and eye opening historical international tours.
Follow him weekly. New content released each week, including Personalities in Jewish History, Insights into Tefillah and Perspectives on the Haftarah and Parshah. Sponsorships of podcasts are available. He can be reached at the following email: rabbidkatz@gmail.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 12, 2025 • 4min
Rabbi Katz's new lecture series in Baltimore: May 12, 14, 19, 21, and 26
Five lecture covering the history of Baltimore Jewry and their various "Judaisms." History of a rather unique Jewish community, whose history is both like and unlike that o other American Jewish communities.

May 7, 2025 • 35min
The Barbary Pirates, Jefferson and Donald Trump's Reported Deal with the Houthis
Arab Piracy: Pay them off? Fight them? The machlokes between John Adams and Thomas Jefferson

May 6, 2025 • 24min
Haftarah Acharei Mos-Kedoshim: Destruction and then Restoration
Would you like to be a prophet of doom?

May 6, 2025 • 23min
Parshas Achrei Mos-Kedoshim: Why is the Yom Kippur Ritual associated with the deaths of Nadav and Avihu?
Was their sin בֵּין אָדָם לַחֲבֵרוֹ? If so, what does that have to do with Yom Kippur, which does not atone for that?

May 5, 2025 • 32min
Rambam and Korbanos Part 3
The World stands on תּוֹרָה, עֲבוֹדָה, וּגְמִילוּת חֲסָדִים. Each one individually? Or the combination of all three?

May 5, 2025 • 48min
R’ Chaim Kohen Rapoport of Lvov (1699-1771) Part 2: Internal machlokes
The Underside of Jewish Kehilah politics in the "Old World"

May 2, 2025 • 23min
Haftarah Tazria-Mazora: Gechazi is "Attacked" by the Yetzer HaTov
Though he was no saint, Gechazi redeems his character by eschewing revenge

Apr 30, 2025 • 29min
Parshas Tazria-Metzora: Biblical Leprosy and Its Role in Promoting Sincere Social Relations
Delve into the fascinating connection between biblical leprosy and our social relationships. The discussion reveals how easily one can acquire tzara'at, pointing to hidden insincerities in interactions. Explore the intricate purification rituals, shedding light on their deeper meanings of healing and redemption. The speaker emphasizes the fragility of trust and the necessity for authenticity in personal connections. Learn how overcoming interpersonal sins can lead to genuine growth, all framed within the context of timeless teachings.

Apr 30, 2025 • 59min
Rav Chaim Kohen Rappaport of Lvov (1699-1771), Pt. 1: A Great Gadol You Probably Never Heard of
One of the Greatest Gedolim of the 18th century. The Noda B’Yehudah and the Hafla'ah sent him THEIR שְׁאֵלוֹת! Classic lomdus of the "Old School"

Apr 27, 2025 • 41min
The Rambam and his different discourses on korbanos & other matters, Pt. 2
Dive into the philosophical insights of a prominent Jewish scholar as they tackle the complexities of korbanos and other mitzvos. Explore the tension between reason and faith, reflecting on the critical significance of sacrificial offerings. Discover how holiness can be attributed to everyday life and the importance of adapting language in religious discussions. Engage with the Rambam’s intellectual challenges regarding sacrificial practices and King David's resilience in the face of mockery, highlighting the enduring strength of Jewish beliefs.