Pardes from Jerusalem Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies

What drives someone to take extreme action in the name of faith?



In this week's episode Rabbi Dr. Howard Markose and Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield unravel the gripping narrative of Parsha Pinchas. Join them as they dive into a tale where zealotry clashes with idolatry and explore the bold and controversial actions of Pinchas amidst the Israelites' turmoil. Their conversation also examines modern applications of these lessons, focusing on the tension between individual passion and communal responsibility.



Rabbi Dr. Howard Markose – Pardes Faculty

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

How do we navigate the complexities of being a unique people while integrating into the modern world?



In this week’s episode, Rabbi Avi Spodek and Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield delve into Parsha Balak, highlighting the themes of identity, isolation, and the perception of the Jewish people by outsiders. They discuss the narrative of Bilaam's blessings and curses, emphasizing the concept of being a "nation that dwells alone." The conversation examines the modern implications of these lessons, focusing on the balance between maintaining a unique identity and integrating into the broader world, the political isolation of Israel, and the challenges faced by Jews globally.



Credits:

Rabbi Avi Spodek – Pardes Faculty

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

Why does a ritual meant to purify others render the priest impure?



In this week’s episode, join Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash and Dr. Daniel Reifman  as they delve into the perplexing ritual of the red heifer, emphasizing the paradox where the act of purifying others renders the priest impure. They examines the distinctions between rational and irrational laws in Jewish tradition, exploring how these concepts have been understood and interpreted throughout history. 



Credits:

Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash – Pardes Faculty

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

How do we navigate leadership challenges and personal ambition in times of crisis?



In this week’s episode, Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield and Aviva Lauer delve into Parsha Korach, exploring leadership and rebellion within the context of the Jewish people's journey through the desert. They discuss the motivations behind Korach's uprising, the dynamics of leadership as portrayed in the Torah, and the harsh consequences faced by the rebels. Together they examine modern applications of these lessons, focusing on individuality, collective responsibility, and the importance of choosing wise counsel.



Credits:

Aviva Lauer – Pardes Faculty

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

What do you do when reality falls short of high expectations?



In this episode, Rabbi Tzvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy delve into the Parsha of Shlach, highlighting the challenges and disappointments faced by the Jewish people on the brink of entering the Promised Land. They discuss the mission of the spies, the people's reaction to their report, and the consequences of their lack of faith. They explore how high expectations can clash with reality and what lessons we can draw for our own lives.



Credits:

Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy – Pardes Faculty

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

How do ancient trumpets teach us about modern journeys and transitions?



In this episode, Rabbi Tzvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Rafael Polisuk delve into Parshat Behalotcha, highlighting the themes of journey and transition within the Torah portion. They discuss the creation and use of silver trumpets to signal movements and gatherings, emphasizing the deeper metaphysical and spiritual meanings behind these sounds.



Credits:

Rabbi Rafael Polisuk – Pardes Faculty

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