The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind
Lobel Center for Jewish Classical Education
Welcome to The Pillars: Jerusalem, Athens, and the Western Mind, a podcast that tells the story of the prophets, philosophers, and poets who created the West.
In this podcast, Rabbi Dr. Mitchell Rocklin guides listeners through more than 3,000 years of Western history, offering a coherent, civilizational story of how the West came to be—along with a deepened understanding of the challenges it now faces. While many of the texts discussed will be familiar to students of the humanities, Rabbi Rocklin offers a new framework for understanding them—a framework in which the teachings of the Jewish religious tradition play a central role. For, as Rabbi Rocklin explains, Western civilization can only be understood as the product of a transformative and ongoing collision between the great traditions of Jerusalem and Athens—between the religious spirit of the Jews and the philosophical spirit of the Greeks.
In this podcast, Rabbi Dr. Mitchell Rocklin guides listeners through more than 3,000 years of Western history, offering a coherent, civilizational story of how the West came to be—along with a deepened understanding of the challenges it now faces. While many of the texts discussed will be familiar to students of the humanities, Rabbi Rocklin offers a new framework for understanding them—a framework in which the teachings of the Jewish religious tradition play a central role. For, as Rabbi Rocklin explains, Western civilization can only be understood as the product of a transformative and ongoing collision between the great traditions of Jerusalem and Athens—between the religious spirit of the Jews and the philosophical spirit of the Greeks.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 2, 2025 • 40min
The Late Roman Republic: Its Troubles and Tribulations
Explore the dramatic decline of the Roman Republic through pivotal events and figures. Discover how the Gracchi brothers' controversial land reforms set the stage for upheaval. Dive into the fierce rivalry between Marius and Sulla, leading to the first civil war. Witness the rise of powerful triads, including Crassus, Pompey, and Caesar. Unpack Caesar's conquests and the contentious politics surrounding his rise. Finally, navigate the complexities of alliances, assassinations, and the transition to empire.
Jan 28, 2025 • 37min
Myth and Memory: Livy's Stories of Rome
Discover the legacy of Livy, one of Rome's greatest historians, who masterfully blends myth and moral storytelling. Explore the gripping tale of the Sabine women and their unique role as peacemakers, sacrificing honor for unity. Dive into the fraternal rivalry between Romulus and Remus and how it reflects Roman views on divine favor and violence. Unpack Camillus’s commitment to honorable warfare and the civic virtue demonstrated by Cincinnatus, which inspired American ideals. This journey reveals the complex interplay of honor and memory in Rome's history.
16 snips
Jan 23, 2025 • 43min
Across the Ionian Sea: The Rise of Rome and the Punic Wars
Discover the fascinating rise of Rome as it supplants Greece, shaped by legends and military valor. Explore Carthage's maritime prowess and the gritty details of the Punic Wars, where Hannibal's daring strategies met their match in Roman resilience. Learn how Rome's conquest influenced culture, blending Greek traditions into a new identity. Along the way, delve into the complexities of Roman social classes, family authority, and the evolution from monarchy to a republic, exposing the roots of modern governance.
16 snips
Jan 21, 2025 • 45min
The Dawn of the West: Hellenism and the Jews
Dive into the fascinating interplay of Hellenism and Jewish thought during the Hellenistic era. Discover how Greek culture transformed Jewish life following Alexander the Great's conquests. Explore the significance of the Septuagint and the emergence of key figures like Philo of Alexandria. Unpack the tensions between Hellenistic philosophies and Jewish traditions, from Stoicism to Cynicism. Finally, reflect on how Judaism's covenantal approach shaped Western ideas of ethics and human dignity.
Jan 16, 2025 • 31min
Greece and the Fine Arts: The Legacy of Greek Art and Architecture
Explore how Greek art and architecture revolutionized human expression, from the beauty of sculpture to the detailed allure of vase paintings. Discover why Greek columns have stood the test of time, marrying utility with decorative elegance. Delve into the mathematical precision behind their proportions and the enduring impact of structures like the Parthenon. Understand the complex Jewish relationship with Greek art: resisting human sculptures while adopting architectural styles to create sacred spaces. Witness the lasting Greco-Roman legacy shaping modern architecture.
5 snips
Jan 14, 2025 • 41min
Aristotle: On Politics
Explore Aristotle's vision of moderation as the key to happiness and stable governance. Discover his insights on the relationship between rulers and slaves, and his critique of Greek gods leading to a more monotheistic idea of divinity. Delve into the dynamics of social structures from households to states, emphasizing the role of virtue and the middle class in political stability. Ultimately, learn about Aristotle's preference for moderate oligarchy and how these ideas still resonate in modern political theory.
Jan 9, 2025 • 34min
Aristotle 101: A Counter-View to Plato
The next great thinker in the world of philosophy was Plato's greatest student, Aristotle. On today's episode, we'll explore the following questions: What are the differences between Plato's and Aristotle's philosophical schools of thought, and why are both important to western philosophy? If Aristotle's scientific discoveries have been overturned by modern science, why is he still important to that field? How did Aristotelian philosophy become the barometer for religion in later periods?
Jan 7, 2025 • 39min
Xenophon: The One that Got Away
Socrates had another student who, unlike Plato, has been relegated to the dusty shelves. As we learn about Xenophon, we'll explore the following questions: Who was Xenophon, and why did he fall out of favor such that he is far less known than Plato? How does Xenophon define excellence, and how is his view unique? To Xenophon, what is justice? How similar is that Plato's understanding of justice?
10 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 41min
Plato's Dialogues: Crito, Phaedo, Euthyphro, Symposium, and the Laws
Rachel Gottlieb, a producer and former teacher, dives deep into Plato's dialogues, unraveling their timeless relevance. She explores Socrates' refusal to escape prison as a profound act of justice, juxtaposing ancient philosophical ideals with modern individualism. The discussion further delves into the differences between Greek and Jewish concepts of love and morality, emphasizing family and community in Jewish traditions. Gottlieb also highlights the significance of these dialogues in modern education, advocating for their role in shaping critical thought.
9 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 27min
Plato's Apology II: The Un-Apologetic Philosopher
Socrates defends his philosophy, insisting that an unexamined life is not worth living. He likens himself to a gadfly, urging Athenian society to reflect and grow. His trial reveals a commitment to truth, as he ironically suggests a reward for his teachings instead of punishment. Refusing to plead for his life, Socrates embodies moral integrity and challenges Athenian complacency. His steadfastness highlights the honor in living a life dedicated to self-examination, revealing the philosophical battle between personal sacrifice and societal justice.
