Matan: One on One Parsha Podcast

In this episode with R. Yitzchak Blau, we zoom in on the laws of the Pesach sacrifice in order to zoom out on its meaning within the Exodus experience. Taking the animal on the 10th of the month, spreading its blood on the doorpost and so many other details that seem far removed from our modern reality, become the keys to kernels of wisdom explored in this wonderful conversation. Tucked between Torah insights, are some educational ideas for Pesach at home with kids.

Dr. Tova Ganzel, a Senior Lecturer at Bar-Ilan University specializing in biblical studies and Jewish law, dives deep into the fascinating world of sacrifices in ancient worship. She discusses the historical roots of korbanot and their significance in Vayikra, shedding light on how these rituals shaped Jewish spirituality. Ganzel contrasts differing perspectives from traditional rabbinic sources to modern interpretations influenced by the Reform movement. The conversation reveals the evolving nature of sacrificial practices and their intriguing relevance in today's spiritual landscape.

In this episode, which closes our episodes on national formation, beloved tour guide Shulie Mishkin walks us through the biblical reality and significance of the Mishkan's long-standing home in Shiloh. Chazak, Chazak, V'nitchazek! Stay tuned for our Vayikra series which focuses on mitzvah observance and a Torah way of life. The series asked what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our current trends in the Jewish world to realign with these principles? This week's episode is dedicated in memory of Roz Bramson. To donate to Matan or sponsor a podcast episode, visit the Matan Website’s DONATE page: https://www.matan.org.il/en/donatenow/

This week's conversation with R. David Fohrman, beloved Tanakh teacher and principal educator at Aleph Beta, was a joy. We begin by thinking about the connection between Betzalel and the world's creation. We ponder the wonders of AI and the relationship between the womb and God's contraction (tzimtzum), and then flesh out the fascinating textual and essential relationship between Betzalel and Yosef. Enjoy this magical Biblical tour with a true Tanakh giant. The series asks what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our current trends in the Jewish world to realign with these principles? This week’s episode has been dedicated in memory of David Shmuel ben Yitzchak. To donate to Matan or sponsor a podcast episode, visit the Matan Website’s DONATE page: https://www.matan.org.il/en/donatenow/

Join Professor Leon Kass, Dean of Faculty at Shalem College and expert in the Hebrew Bible, as he dives into the intricate themes of Parashat Ki Tisa. They explore the relationship between national identity and divine covenant, discussing the complexities of sin, forgiveness, and the impact of leadership during trials. Kass shares insights on the transformative power of the Mishkan and how communal projects foster identity. This thought-provoking conversation illuminates how storytelling in the Torah shapes our faith and collective memory.

In this illuminating conversation with Rabbanit Shayna Goldberg, we begin by discussing the centrality of priestly clothing in this week's parsha and then broaden the conversation by exploring other biblical manifestations of clothing alongside its personal and societal functions. This is an episode worth sharing with your teenagers. It really steers the conversation in a refreshing direction, away from 'tzniut' (halakhic modesty) of dress to an ethic more inherent, intuitive, and holistic. The series asks what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our current trends in the Jewish world to realign with these principles? To donate to Matan or sponsor a podcast episode, visit the Matan Website’s DONATE page: https://www.matan.org.il/en/donatenow/

Dr. Samuel Lebens, an associate professor of philosophy and Orthodox rabbi, joins the conversation to explore the significance of the Mishkan as a societal building project. He delves into the concept of tzimtzum, or divine contraction, and its vital role in understanding God’s presence among the Israelites. The discussion also touches on the Mishkan's deeper symbolism for Jewish identity, national unity, and contemporary challenges. Moreover, the importance of volunteerism and camaraderie in fostering community bonds is highlighted, linking spiritual insight with collective efforts.

In this fascinating conversation with Professor Chaim Saiman, we explore foundational understandings of how the rabbinic system of law developed and is enforced. The conversation then turns to the judiciary role of American rabbinical courts today and how this compares and contrasts with trends in Israel. Check out Prof. Saiman's Book Halakha here: https://www.amazon.com/Halakhah-Rabbinic-Library-Jewish-Ideas/dp/069115211X The series asks what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our current trends in the Jewish world to realign with these principles? To donate to Matan or sponsor a podcast episode, visit the Matan Website’s DONATE page: https://www.matan.org.il/en/donatenow/

In this candid conversation with Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash, we explore the halakhic obligations and limits of the commandment to honor one's parents in an age where the parent-child relationship has undergone tremendous change. The series asks what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our current trends in the Jewish world to realign with these principles? To donate to Matan or sponsor a podcast episode, visit the Matan Website’s DONATE page: https://www.matan.org.il/en/donatenow/

In this episode with R. Joe Wolfson, we explore the nation's experience crossing the Red Sea through a series of midrashic readings that provide greater human depth and emotional contour to the written text. R. Wolfson reminds us how Chazal's dynamic interpretations often provide a bridge between the biblical account and our lived experiences. The series asks what axiomatic ideas sit at the root of Israel’s national formation, without which we wouldn’t be who we are? How might we adjust our current trends in the Jewish world to realign with these principles? This week’s episode is dedicated in memory of Rabbi Desmond Maizels, a devoted community Rabbi in Cape Town, South Africa for over 40 years. To donate to Matan or sponsor a podcast episode, visit the Matan Website’s DONATE page: https://www.matan.org.il/en/donatenow/