
Meir Soloveichik
Rabbi Dr. Meir Y. Soloveichik is one of America’s leading voices on Jewish ideas, religious freedom, and faith in the modern age. In conjunction with the release of his new YouTube lecture series, "Sacred Time: A Journey through the Jewish Holidays," this podcast will collect and feature Rabbi Soloveichik’s latest podcasts, lectures, live events, and more.
Latest episodes

Sep 7, 2023 • 13min
Ezekiel’s Neilah
Explore the influence of external factors on individual futures and the role of repentance, individual responsibility, and collective punishment in the book of Ezekiel. Reflect on the lasting effects of our actions as parents and society members. Discover the themes of freedom, responsibility, and repentance in Judaism through personal anecdotes and references to the Book of Ezekiel.

Sep 7, 2023 • 17min
Menachem Begin’s Yom Kippur
Explore Menachem Begin's connection to the Yom Kippur service in the Temple, the significance of the congregational unity of Israel, the deep bond between Jews and the ancient temple, and the importance of prayers in preserving memories and showing gratitude for past generations.

Sep 7, 2023 • 6min
The Meaning of a Yom Kippur Prayer
Exploring the power of repentance in the Yom Kippur prayer Kol Nidrei, its connection to vows, and the significance of regret. Delving into the tradition's biblical context, opposition from rabbis, and its enduring relevance in the digital age.

Sep 7, 2023 • 14min
Jonah, Assyria, and Us
This podcast explores the contrasting perspectives on life and fate in the Book of Jonah, highlighting the power of prayer and repentance. It also examines the difference in attitudes towards violence in the books of Noah and Jonah, emphasizing the themes of redemption and forgiveness.

Sep 7, 2023 • 13min
The Fugitive, Biblical Edition
This podcast explores the book of Jonah and its lessons on self-reflection and Jewish identity. It discusses Jonah's disobedience to God's command and the storm at sea. The perplexity of the sailors and Jonah's identification as a Hebrew servant are also examined. The chapter further delves into the contrasting beliefs about gods in ancient civilizations and the unique nature of the Hebrew God. The concept of God's omnipresence and its significance in Jewish identity is highlighted.

Sep 7, 2023 • 13min
Who Was Gedaliah?
Explore the strong connection and idealization of Jerusalem within the Ethiopian Jewish community, the relationship between Gedalia and Jeremiah, and the story of Gedalia and its lessons from the Book of Jeremiah.

Sep 7, 2023 • 11min
Joy and Tears on Rosh Hashanah
The podcast explores the connection between baby cries and the shofar's cry on Rosh Hashanah. It discusses the power of the shofar's cry and the role of speechlessness on Rosh Hashanah. The conflicting emotions of joy and sorrow on the day of judgment are explored, along with the significance of the shofar. It also delves into the concept of spiritual slumber and the importance of awakening to our true worth on Rosh Hashanah.

Sep 7, 2023 • 13min
The Tashlikh of Micah and the Omens of Rosh Hashanah
Explore the connection between Billum and Micah, emphasizing inner devotion over external rituals. Delve into the ritual of Tashlikh and its power in fostering internal change. Discover the tradition of Tashlok and the covenantal connection, emphasizing the temporary nature of sin and the importance of a context of meaning and hope.

Sep 7, 2023 • 12min
The Shofar and the Crown of Prayer
Exploring the significance of the shofar in Jewish culture, this podcast discusses its role as a symbol of repentance and cry for help during crises and fasting. It also explores the dual meaning of the shofar as an instrument of wailing and coronation, and its connection to the anointing of kings and coronation ceremonies in English monarchies. The episode draws comparisons to biblical traditions and symbolism in Judaism, with a reference to the portrayal in 'The Crown'.

Sep 7, 2023 • 20min
The King and Us
Exploring the significance of kingship in Judaism, the importance of humility and staying connected to commandments, God as a king in Judaism and how His accessibility compares to ancient Israelite kings and even the openness of the White House during Lincoln's presidency, the role of the Sanhedrin and the concept of royalty in Judaism, and the significance of coronating God and the true nature of kingship.