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
15 snips
Oct 27, 2024 • 28min
Jews and Greeks: A Match Made in Heaven?
Delve into the intriguing relationship between Jewish and Greek cultures, marked by historical conflicts and moments of collaboration. Discover why some Jewish scholars embraced Greek thought, even allowing Torah scrolls to be written in Greek. Examine how Greek philosophies enhance the understanding of morality and humanity, unraveling the complexities of Biblical redemption. This exploration reveals the essential role of Greek wisdom in shaping the Western intellectual heritage.
8 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 39min
The Hebrew Bible: A Covenantal Walk-Through
Dive into the rich teachings of the Hebrew Bible, examining the essence of living a life aligned with divine covenants. Explore the tension between sacrifice and the pressure to abandon faith, highlighting the stories of patriarchs and prophets. Reflect on personal and communal responsibility amidst experiences of loss and hope. Uncover the contrast between ancient and modern notions of legacy while celebrating courage and moral integrity through figures like Esther and Daniel. This journey reveals the enduring significance of the covenant in navigating life's challenges.
11 snips
Oct 20, 2024 • 46min
The Bible on Government: How a Nation Should be Ruled and Redeemed
Joshua Berman, a Professor of Bible at Bar-Ilan University and author of 'Created Equal', delves into the intersection of biblical teachings and governance. He discusses how the Bible uniquely merges religious and political life, promoting a strong national identity while respecting individual significance. Contrasting ancient Near Eastern politics with biblical principles, he emphasizes community welfare over tribalism. The conversation also touches on economic policies in ancient Israel and the evolution of gender equality, offering insights into contemporary governance.
13 snips
Oct 15, 2024 • 38min
Back to the Beginning: Biblical Creation as Covenantal Partnership
Explore the stark differences between the Biblical creation story and pagan narratives, especially the emphasis on humanity's purpose. Delve into why Abraham was chosen to uphold the covenant and the implications of its potential failure on the world. Discover the enduring hope within the covenantal bonds of the Jewish people and the paradox of human significance in creation. Finally, contrast Jewish political thought with pagan philosophies, highlighting the importance of dignity and community within the divine framework.
8 snips
Oct 10, 2024 • 39min
Myth and Mentality: The Bible vs. the Epic of Gilgamesh
Dive into the fascinating exploration of the Epic of Gilgamesh and its insights into the pagan mindset. Uncover why this ancient myth remains relevant today and how it presents a contrasting view of a meaningful life compared to Biblical teachings. The discussions unravel themes of mortality and the quest for immortality, highlighting the differences in divine relationships and covenants between the epic’s indifferent gods and the forgiving God of the Torah. Join in as these worldviews collide, shaping our understanding of existence.
13 snips
Oct 8, 2024 • 33min
The Iron Age: Neo-Assyrian and Neo-Babylonian Empires
Explore the dramatic upheaval of the Ancient Near East as empires collide. Discover Neo-Assyrian resettlement policies and their impact on Jewish life. Delve into the clever siege tactics, including Hezekiah's tunnel, that shaped warfare narratives. Learn about the rise and fall of the Neo-Babylonian Empire and its cultural repercussions for Judaism. Finally, uncover how the Persian Empire, with leaders like Cyrus the Great, altered the trajectory of Jewish history.
Oct 6, 2024 • 27min
From Hebrews to Jews: The Development of a Covenantal People
Delving into the ancient world, the discussion reveals how the Hebrew Bible insists on the uniqueness of God. Unraveling the mystery, they tackle the sparse archaeological evidence for ancient Israelites and its implications. The podcast also highlights the evolution from 'Hebrew' to 'Jew' and examines the profound significance of the covenant in Judaism. Additionally, listeners explore the complexities of historical narratives contrasted with myth, showcasing how biblical figures connect deeply with the evolving Jewish identity. It's a captivating journey through faith and history.
18 snips
Oct 1, 2024 • 28min
The Hebrew Neighborhood: The Concert of Powers, Phoenicians, and Canaan
Discover how the Jews conquered Canaan despite being a small group in the dynamic landscape of the Iron Age. Explore the Concert of Powers and the contributions of empires like Egypt and Assyria to the region. Learn about the unique covenant between God and humanity that outshines other ancient agreements. Delve into the Phoenicians' invention of the alphabet and their rise as a trading powerhouse. Unpack the intertwining legacies of Israelites and Phoenicians, highlighting their cultural impacts and literacy challenges.
15 snips
Sep 26, 2024 • 35min
Egypt Through the Middle Kingdom: Memphite Theology and The Story of Sinuhe
Dive into the fascinating world of ancient Egypt with a deep look at Memphite theology and the pivotal god Petah, who shaped the empire's identity. Discover the labor dynamics behind iconic pyramid construction, where paid and volunteer efforts created monumental architecture. Explore the rich duality of Egyptian beliefs, contrasting their views with those of early Jewish culture. Uncover the intriguing story of Sinuhe and its parallels to the biblical Joseph, revealing profound insights into ancient society and cultural narratives.
8 snips
Sep 24, 2024 • 35min
Eastern Origins and Biblical Clash: The West’s Roots in the Ancient Near East
Dive into the fascinating roots of civilization as the discussion explores the ancient kingdoms of the Near East. Discover how the Code of Hammurabi propelled societal progress while revealing its critical flaws. Compare its legal principles with those found in the Hebrew Bible, showcasing profound differences in how each values human life. The exploration also highlights the contrasting moral frameworks between Babylonian and Jewish laws, shedding light on class disparities and their impact on social justice.
