Take One Daf Yomi

In a thought-provoking discussion, the emotional and spiritual complexities of divorce are examined through the lens of the Talmud. The challenges of parting ways are likened to parting the Red Sea, revealing deep societal perceptions and the significance of marital bonds. Tears, both personal and communal, are explored as a vital aspect of the grieving process in Judaism. This conversation encourages listeners to embrace their emotions and find healing amidst the pain of separation.

Today’s Talmud page, Sanhedrin 21, tells us the story of King Solomon's downfall. What made the wisest man alive sin, and what does it have to do with the Roman Empire? And what warning does the story hold for us about choosing our values carefully? Listen and find out.

Today’s Talmud pages, Sanhedrin 19 and 20, tell a riveting story of a haughty king, a brave rabbi, and a murder most foul. Why did one brave judge stand up to the most powerful man in the land? And what led the rabbis to issue a stern warning against handing any one person, or institution, too much power? Listen and find out.

Today’s Talmud pages, Sanhedrin 17 and 18, give us a masterclass about choosing the right leaders. Why must a leader speak every conceivable language? And why must he or she be attractive as well as wise? Listen and find out.

Today’s Talmud page, Sanhedrin 16, is all about optional wars, and who has the right to go to battle and under what circumstances. Rabbi Dr. Shlomo Brody, author of the new book Ethics of Our Fighters: A Jewish View on War and Morality, joins us to talk about the Jewish way of war. How do the ancient teachings inform our very modern warfare? Listen and find out.

Today’s Talmud page, Sanhedrin 15, asks what is to be done should an animal take a life. Might the beast stand trial for murder? And why is Reish Lakish, perhaps the fiercest of all of the Talmud's rabbis, advocating for compassion? Listen and find out.

Today’s Talmud page, Sanhedrin 14, tells the story of Rabbi Yehuda ben Bava, a Talmudic superhero who sacrificed his own life to keep the Jewish tradition alive. What can we learn from his inspiring story? Listen and find out.

Today’s Talmud pages, Sanhedrin 12 and 13, remind us that the role of rabbis used to be very different than what most of might recognize today. Rabbi Diana Fersko joins us to talk about this historic shift, and about whether the expectations we have of modern-day rabbis are still realistic. So what, exactly, is it that a rabbi does all day? Listen and find out.

What happened to prophets in our modern world? Dive into the intriguing exploration of spiritual legacies left by the last prophets, with insights from the beloved sage Hillel. Discover the concept of Bas Kol, the 'daughter of a voice,' and learn how it signifies a shift to inner divine communication. This conversation encourages us to listen to our inner voice for personal growth and transformation.

Today’s Talmud page, Sanhedrin 9, informs us that those of us who rush to help someone do a mitzvah are rewarded themselves as well. Erica Pelman, the founder and director of Jewish unplanned pregnancy support network Shifra, joins us to talk about her organization's sacred work. How can we change the way we talk about abortions for the better? Listen and find out.