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Rootless is off this week for Passover, but we wanted to bring you an episode of How to Be a Jew we think you'll like. Like most Jews, the news of the murder of the Bibas children not only saddened us, but it also made us ANGRY. How do we deal with our own thoughts about the event, and the greater world’s response as well?Dara Horn, a prolific author known for her book People Love Dead Jews (and the podcast Adventures with Dead Jews) as well as her work fighting antisemitism, joins us to deal with our anger and provide context for why we should be optimistic about the future of Jews. We also talk about her new Passover-themed graphic novel for kids, One Little Goat. How does a seder that won’t end lead to a time-traveling adventure? Have a listen.

Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz, the Rabbi of Valley Beth Shalom and author of 'The Case for Dual Loyalty,' advocates for embracing dual loyalty among American Jews to both the U.S. and Israel. He discusses reframing the notion of dual loyalty from a stigmatized idea to a strength, especially in the context of recent anti-Semitic events. The conversation delves into the cyclical nature of Jewish identity through history and the need for solidarity in navigating modern complexities, including rising extremism and differing political perceptions.

In this engaging discussion, attorney Gary Osen sheds light on the lawsuit against Palestinian mogul Bashar Masri, accused of colluding with Hamas using his properties for attacks, including the tragic events on October 7. Osen explains how infrastructure projects, meant to foster growth, have instead enabled terrorism. The conversation dives into the complexities of accountability in Gaza, the challenges of humanitarian efforts, and the difficulties of prosecuting those who fund terror. Osen emphasizes the need for justice and a future free from conflict.

This week on How to Be a Jew, we have questions, and answers too. As we all get ready for Passover we’re tackling some of the thorniest… and tastiest questions we’ve gotten. Need to save your matzah balls? What’s up with Christian Seders? Should we feel guilty about the plagues? Tune in for answers to these and other important questions. 

Mark Gerson, an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author of "God Was Right," offers fascinating insights into the modern relevance of the Torah. He discusses how biblical teachings can cure contemporary issues like depression through mindful choices, including what we wear. Gerson critiques modern dating habits, urging for more intentional partner selection rooted in shared values. Additionally, he advocates for a shift from victim culture to one of dignity, highlighting the power of personal responsibility and community in fostering both generosity and inclusion.

Ayelet Zurer, the talented Israeli-American actress known for her roles in films like Munich and Man of Steel, joins the conversation. She delves into the representation of Jewish themes in media, sharing insights about her experience in 'House of David' and its parallels to 'Game of Thrones.' The discussion touches on the complexities of biblical storytelling, particularly regarding motherhood and women's roles in historical contexts. Zurer also highlights the importance of multidimensional characters and how ancient narratives still resonate in modern storytelling.

Josh Hammer, Senior Editor at Large for Newsweek and author of "Israel and Civilization," discusses how the future of Western civilization hinges on the success of Israel and the Jewish community. He delves into the rise of anti-Semitism and the necessity of a Jewish-Christian coalition to overcome societal upheaval. Hammer explores the U.S.-Israel strategic alliance, emphasizing its importance for American security. He also shares personal anecdotes about love and identity in Jerusalem, weaving together cultural and political reflections on modern Jewish life.

For more than 3,000 years, prohibitions against eating pig has been central to Jewish dietary laws, but it’s also been a potent symbol of Jewish identity. Other non-kosher animals, like horses, rabbits, squirrels, and even vultures don’t carry the same weight that the pig does in the Jewish imagination. Jordan Rosenblum, Jewish Studies professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, joins us to talk about why. His new book, Forbidden—A 3,000-Year History of Jews and the Pig, traces the history of the pig as a symbol of Jewish identity, and recently won the National Jewish Book Award for Food Writing and Cookbooks.

Universities are meant to be spaces of free inquiry, knowledge, and rigorous debate. But according to academic and writer Cary Nelson, they’ve instead become hotbeds of ideological conformity—long before October 7. In his new essay Mindless, published in the Jewish Quarterly, Nelson traces how universities abandoned shared intellectual principles, paving the way for the antisemitism and misinformation now taking hold on campuses worldwide. He joins Liel to discuss the forces that led to this institutional failure, the consequences for Jewish students and faculty, and what must happen to restore true academic freedom.

A few weeks ago, we brought you a conversation with AJ Edelman, the first Orthodox Jew to compete in the Winter Olympics and the pilot of the current Israeli bobsled team.Shortly after that interview, Tablet signed on as a sponsor for his bobsled team, complete with merch you can find at https://tabletmagstore.com/ This week, we’re bringing you a dispatch from his time at the World Bobsled Championships and the three things you need to know about bobsledding.For more information about the Israel Bobsled team, visit israelbobsled.team.