Seforimchatter

R' Moshe (Ramesha) Kravetz, a historian and editor, dives into the fascinating world of seforim research. He reveals how a mysterious box led to the founding of the Tavin auction house. Engaging tales include the tracing of a New Shalem copy's journey from Suvalk to Jerusalem, and riveting details about Rabbi Kirshenbaum's connections within the publishing world. The discussion also covers enigmatic marginalia, a polemic against cremation, and the significance of authentic signatures, giving listeners a rare glimpse into the historical context of these precious texts.

In this engaging conversation, Rabbi Sroy Levitansky, a rabbinic educator and kiruv professional, shares profound life lessons inspired by his father-in-law, Avi Shulman. They explore Shulman's unique approach to public speaking, his activism against media influence, and his inspiring transition back to full-time learning at sixty. Rabbi Sroy highlights the balance between disciplined goal-setting and joy, the resilience shown in facing personal tragedy, and the importance of community in achieving aspirations. A heartfelt tribute to a remarkable legacy!

Prof. Shmuel Feiner, a leading authority on modern Jewish history, discusses the impactful work of Vesely in shaping Jewish education. He delves into the revolutionary concepts of Torah Ha'adam versus Torah Elohim and their implications in the 18th century. Feiner reveals Vesely's connections with Moses Mendelssohn and highlights the resulting tensions with rabbinic authority. He also explores Vesely's innovative curriculum proposals and their lasting influence on modern Jewish schooling, advocating for a balance between tradition and modernity.

Roy Neuberger, an author and co-creator of 'Together Forever', shares his transformative journey to Torah observance alongside his wife Leah, who contributes valuable insights on marriage and family life. They discuss how to apply the 48 ways from Pirkei Avot to enhance relationships, emphasizing listening skills, constructive communication, and emotional timing. With personal anecdotes and humor, they make the strategies relatable for couples, urging that their guidance is beneficial for anyone seeking deeper connections.

Michelle Margolis, a librarian and expert in Jewish books and digital humanities, joins to explore the rich history of Hebrew printing. She discusses the transformative impact of the printing press, drawing parallels to modern technology like the internet. Key topics include the legacy of the Vilna Press, innovations in distribution, and the importance of preserving quality in 19th-century books. Margolis also emphasizes the role of digital platforms in reshaping text access and the challenges of relying on ephemeral online resources.

#425The Early Jewish Printed Book: Episode 3 (with Michelle Margolis)> This episode of Seforim Chatter is sponsored by Sefaria, the free digital library of Jewish texts. With Sefaria, you can access thousands of sefarim — including Gemara, Rishonim, Acharonim, halacha, and Chassidus — all fully linked and searchable. Use it to prepare a shiur, learn with a chavrusa, or explore new ideas on your own — anytime, anywhere. Visit www.sefaria.org (http://www.sefaria.org/) to explore the world of Torah online, for free.> For more on Jewish Printing and Book Culture: https://www.posenlibrary.com/guide/jewish-printing-and-book-culture> For further research see Michelle’s research guide: https://guides.library.columbia.edu/c.php?g=869414&p=6240198> To purchase David W. Amram’s “The Makers of Hebrew Books in Italy: Being Chapters in the History of the Hebrew Printing Press”: https://amzn.to/4peGSwN> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show

#424The Early Jewish Printed Book: Episode 2 (with Michelle Margolis)> This episode of Seforim Chatter is sponsored by Sefaria, the free digital library of Jewish texts. With Sefaria, you can access thousands of sefarim — including Gemara, Rishonim, Acharonim, halacha, and Chassidus — all fully linked and searchable. Use it to prepare a shiur, learn with a chavrusa, or explore new ideas on your own — anytime, anywhere. Visit www.sefaria.org (http://www.sefaria.org/) to explore the world of Torah online, for free.> For more on Jewish Printing and Book Culture: https://www.posenlibrary.com/guide/jewish-printing-and-book-culture> For further research see Michelle’s research guide: https://guides.library.columbia.edu/c.php?g=869414&p=6240198> To purchase David W. Amram’s “The Makers of Hebrew Books in Italy: Being Chapters in the History of the Hebrew Printing Press”: https://amzn.to/4peGSwN> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show

Michelle Margolis, the Norman E. Alexander Librarian for Jewish Studies at Columbia University, shares her expertise on early Hebrew printing. She delves into the fascinating mechanics of movable type and Gutenberg's significant role in transforming Jewish learning. Margolis discusses how early printing shaped community needs and its cultural impact, exploring the origins of Hebrew presses in Rome and the priorities of commentaries in print. The conversation also highlights connections between those fleeing the Inquisition and the spread of Hebrew works in the Ottoman world.

Rabbi Dr. Elly Deutsch, a knowledgeable rabbi and author of 'Kol Chosson,' shares insights into the foundations of the Jewish wedding. He discusses the two-part structure of his book, covering sugya-based shiurim and practical halachic guidance. Deutsch delves into essential topics like birchot erusin and practical tips for engagement through sheva brachot. He offers surprising halachic rulings and shares anecdotes, making complex laws accessible to learners and those planning weddings.

#421> This episode sponsored by the Touro Graduate School of Jewish Studies. Are you ready to nurture your interest in Jewish studies or pursue your graduate degree in the field? Perhaps you're in need of a deeper understanding of Jewish history and thought to advance your career? At Touro’s Graduate School of Jewish Studies, you can explore such topics as the history of Hasidism, studies in 19th-20th century biblical commentaries and much more. You’ll learn from noted subject matter experts as you earn your master’s in Jewish Education or Jewish History or audit any course that interests you. All courses are offered fully online via Zoom. For more information visit https://gsjs.touro.edu/history/> To purchase "Disputed Messiahs": https://amzn.to/496qU1X> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DZ3C2CjUeD9AGJvXeEODtK> To join the SeforimChatter WhatsApp status: https://wa.me/message/TI343XQHHMHPN1>  To support the podcast or to sponsor an episode follow this link: https://seforimchatter.com/support-seforimchatter/or email seforimchatter@gmail.com (Zelle/QP this email address)Support the show