Third Rail Judaism

The Feral Jew

Third Rail Judaism is a podcast in which we explore the most controversial and misunderstood aspects of Judaism, Torah, Jewish law, Jewish history, and Jewish thought. thirdrailjudaism@gmail.com

Episodes

  1. JAN 26

    Superstition! Part 2 - What Does Science Say About Belief In God? - With Rabbi Elie Feder and Rabbi Aaron Zimmer Of The Physics To God Podcast

    Send us a text The Fine-Tuning Debate: Intelligent Design vs. Multiverse Theory In this episode of Third Rail Judaism, host Blake Cohen delves into the intricacies of fine-tuning in the universe with Elie Feder and Aaron Zimmer from the Physics to God Podcast. The discussion covers why fine-tuning points to an intelligent cause or God, as well as the multiverse theory, which scientists consider an alternative explanation. The conversation touches on concepts like the cosmological constant, observer bias, and the measure problem, aiming to reconcile the implications of fine-tuning with both scientific and philosophical perspectives. This episode seeks to explore whether our finely-tuned universe indicates an intelligent designer or can be explained by an infinite array of universes, each with unique physical laws. 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 00:45 The Concept of Fine Tuning 00:56 The Mystery of Existence 01:44 Scientific Perspectives on Nothingness 04:52 Defining Fine Tuning 08:33 The Constants and Their Significance 11:17 The Role of Fine Tuning in Physics 21:37 The Multiverse Theory 22:06 Challenges and Counterarguments 29:58 Scientific Theories and Predictions 36:52 Observer Bias and Infinite Universes 37:29 The Measure Problem in the Multiverse Theory 39:17 Challenges and Criticisms of the Measure Problem 39:56 The Role of God in Scientific Theories 41:43 Philosophical Implications and the Nature of Science 44:01 Intelligent Design vs. Multiverse Theory 58:12 The Concept of Fine Tuning and Intelligent Cause 01:05:24 Preview of Next Season: Addressing Infinite Regress 01:10:49 Closing Remarks and Future Projects Support the show https://www.patreon.com/c/ThirdRailJudaism

    1h 15m
  2. 2025-07-28

    Homosexuality Pt. 1 - Go And Tell The Craftsman Who Made Me - With Rabbi Shua Brick

    Send us a text Exploring Homosexuality in Jewish Tradition: Historical Context and Contemporary Debates In this episode of Third Rail Judaism, the discussion delves into the complex topic of homosexuality in Jewish tradition. The conversation begins with an examination of the prohibition against male-to-male sexual relations as stated in the Torah and its context. The hosts explore the differing attitudes towards lesbian relationships and the interpretations within the Talmud and other rabbinic texts. Attention is given to the historical and present-day perspectives on same-sex relationships within Jewish communities, highlighting the influence of Christian moral values on Jewish attitudes. The dialogue also touches upon the prevalence of reparative therapy, its controversial nature, and its impact on the mental health of individuals who have undergone such treatments. Finally, the conversation examines the broader topic of inclusivity within Jewish law and the need for a distinctly Jewish approach to understanding and addressing LGBTQ+ issues. The episode underscores the importance of halachic discourse and the potential for new interpretations that align with authentic Jewish values. 00:00 Introduction and Defining Terms 00:35 Torah Prohibitions on Homosexuality 02:02 Lesbian Relationships in Jewish Texts 03:37 Historical Context and Interpretations 04:56 Halakha and Moral Implications 06:12 Rabbinic Views and Legal Perspectives 12:17 Practical and Emotional Responses 22:40 Reparative Therapy and Its Controversies 33:54 Respecting Women in Relationships 34:32 Challenges in Mixed-Orientation Marriages 35:43 Historical Perspectives on Forced Marriages 36:13 Halachic Discussions on Homosexuality 37:14 Kabbalistic Views on Sexuality 41:10 Comparing Attitudes Towards Different Sins 42:54 Christian Influence on Jewish Sexual Morality 54:54 Sephardic vs. Ashkenazi Approaches 59:44 Personal Reflections and Halachic Studies 01:04:13 The Need for Authentic Jewish Perspectives Support the show https://www.patreon.com/c/ThirdRailJudaism

    1h 13m

About

Third Rail Judaism is a podcast in which we explore the most controversial and misunderstood aspects of Judaism, Torah, Jewish law, Jewish history, and Jewish thought. thirdrailjudaism@gmail.com

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