Take One Daf Yomi

Dive into an intriguing Talmudic tale where Rava and a minister debate pleasure versus power, with a surprise royal interruption showcasing fate's role in justice. Explore how lessons from presidents and moguls illustrate the fragile nature of power as their aspirations collide with political realities. Historical anecdotes reveal the strategies of iconic figures like Rockefeller and Gates, highlighting the complexities of influence in a world where even the mighty can be humbled.

On today’s page, Avodah Zarah 64, the rabbis introduce the strange prohibition of giving a “free gift” to a gentile. Rabbi Dovid Bashevkin helps us unpack what’s at stake, from communal bonds to baseless love, and why family ties redefine generosity. What does Judaism teach about gifts without strings? Listen and find out.

On today’s page, Avodah Zarah 63, the Talmud suggests that sometimes smashing things apart clears the way for something better. But how do we know when destruction is holy, not harmful? Listen and find out.

In today's page of Talmud, Avodah Zarah 62, the rabbis weigh in on whether wages earned from idolatrous wine are permitted, offering a lesson about work, boundaries, and moral compromise. But how do we know when a job crosses the line? Listen and find out.

In today's page of Talmud, Avodah Zarah 60 and 61, the Rabbis debate touchless wine presses, leading to speculation about Rashi’s side hustle—wine maker, egg seller, or both. But what does this teach us about balancing learning with making a living? Listen and find out.

In today's page of Talmud, Avodah Zarah 58 and 59, a wine dispute between rabbis turns into a debate about which towns raise the most learned Jews—and why staying rooted matters. But how can your zip code shape your soul? Listen and find out. Please visit this link to sign up for some learning in honor of Marvin Singer, who passed away this week.

In today's page of Talmud, Avodah Zarah 57, the rabbis continue their discussion of the laws of wine. The Gemara relates a story which takes place in a city where the Jewish inhabitants ruled, and enjoyed access to influence and power, which the Gentile residents did not. There's a link between this story and this week's Torah portion of Eikev, in which the Jews are told, basically, not to get too comfortable. But is comfort really such a danger to spiritual health? Listen and find out. 

On today's page of Talmud, Avodah Zarah 56, the sages discuss wine. It's easy to understand that wine created for the purpose of idol worship is expressly forbidden. But regular wine—not expressly Kosher, yet definitely not created for idolatry—is still not allowed. Why? Listen and find out. 

On today’s page of Talmud, Avodah Zarah 55, a Roman general’s question about God’s “jealousy” opens the door to parables about human nature, trust, and why even pain seems to follow rules. But why would God let hardship happen at all? Listen and find out.

The discussion dives into the laws of idol worship and philosophical questions surrounding divine will. Why does God allow idol worship if it's forbidden? Sages and philosophers engage in thought-provoking debates about truth and the nature of divinity. Through parables, they examine the disconnect between misguided worshippers and the idols they follow. Themes of divine jealousy and moral implications of idolatry are explored, revealing a complex tapestry of faith and judgment.