Pardes from Jerusalem Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies

Can we uncover hidden blessings, even from within painful experiences? Join us this week as we delve into the profound purification rituals surrounding the mysterious affliction of tzara'at (often translated as "leprosy") in the weekly Torah portion of Metzora.

In a riveting discussion, Rabbi Jon Leener challenges the conventional view of this condition as merely a punishment. Drawing from insightful Jewish sources, he illuminates the possibility that tzara'at may in fact be a divine wake-up call - an opportunity for spiritual growth and course-correction, rather than simply a curse. Grappling with timeless questions of suffering and meaning, we'll explore this compelling perspective.

Credits:

Rabbi Jon Leener - Pardes North America Faculty

Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield - Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem



 

How do we navigate the tension between devotion to mitzvot and the pursuit of understanding their significance in our lives?



In this week's parsha, we explore the seemingly archaic ritual purity laws. Rabbi Michael Hattin joins the discussion to highlight how these laws, though initially perplexing, offer profound insights into human behavior and ethics. By engaging critically with religious practice and moral conduct, listeners are encouraged to navigate the complexities of tradition and personal understanding.



Credits:

Rabbi Michael Hattin - Pardes Faculty

Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield - Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

In this week’s episode, we navigate the complexities of failure and growth in the aftermath of pivotal moments in the Tanakh.



Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy draws a parallel between the incidents of the Golden Calf and the death of Aaron’s sons, both occurring at crucial moments meant to elevate the spiritual consciousness of the Jewish people. Delving into these tragic events, we’re invited to contemplate profound questions: How do we grapple with our failures when we aren’t sure where we went wrong? Amidst the uncertainty and discord, are we able to chart a path towards growth and improvement?



Credits:

Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy - Pardes Faculty, Director of the Year Program and Rosh Beit Midrash

Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield - Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash joins us this week for an investigation of the eternal flame that burned upon the altar.



Contemplating the balance between the passion of the burning fire and the steadfastness of its daily lighting, Zvi and Nechama ask how we may infuse our own religious practices with both regularity and inspiration. As we discuss the altar upon which sacrifices were meant to be made, we'll also reflect on the sacrifices being made today by the youth of Israel during this time of conflict and the profound impact it has had on us.



Credits:

Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash - Pardes Faculty

Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield - Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem

Join Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield this week as he delves deep into the rich theological tapestry of Purim alongside Rafael Polisuk. Together, they explore the intricate messages woven into the fabric of the holiday and the profound challenges encountered by the Jewish people of that era.



Unraveling the layers of history and tradition, they ponder the intriguing question: Did the Jewish people substitute God with the mortal figure of King Achashverosh? Could the opulent court of the King have evolved into a contemporary Mishkan, a sacred space of worship and reverence? As the conversation unfolds, they invite listeners to contemplate the significance of placing God at the forefront of our lives and decision-making processes.

In what way does the Mishkan (Tabernacle) serve as a metaphor for organizing one's relationship with God, oneself, and others?



This week, we're joined by Rabbi Dr. Daniel Reifman for a discussion of the meticulous detailing of the construction of the Mishkan and its role in serving as both a physical structure for God's presence and a metaphor for the Jewish people's journey towards understanding their relationship with God.



Credits:

Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield - Host of Pardes from Jerusalem and Pardes Faculty

Rabbi Dr. Daniel Reifman - Pardes Faculty