The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies Podcast Network

Nov 17 2024 50 ep. 33 mins 148
The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies Podcast Network artwork

The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies is an open, co-ed and non-denominational Jewish learning community, based in Jerusalem and with programs worldwide. Students encounter and grapple with classic texts and traditions of Judaism, while exploring their relevance to today’s most pressing issues. Pardes empowers students with the knowledge and tools to take ownership of their Jewish experience.

For more information about all our programs and events see www.pardes.org.il

  Religion & Spirituality  Education  History
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Chayei Sarah 5785: Chesed and Devotion

Nov 17 2024 32 mins  
Why are "supporting characters" so vital in Torah narratives? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy explore Parshat Chayei Sarah, focusing on the remarkable qualities of Rivka and Eliezer. Rivka’s extraordinary acts of chesed (kindness) and Eliezer’s unwavering dedication to Avraham’s mission offer profound lessons about leadership, humility, and

Vayera 5785: Justice and Mercy

Nov 12 2024 38 mins  
Why might kindness be perceived as weakness, and what does Avraham’s response teach us? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Leon Morris examine Avraham’s moral decisions in Parshat Vayera, focusing on the qualities that led to the downfall of Sodom and Gomorrah. They discuss the values of compassion, justice, and community, exploring how these themes challenge us to add

Lech Lecha 5785: Light in the Darkness

Nov 04 2024 33 mins  
What can Avraham’s journey teach us about finding inner light when surrounded by uncertainty? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Nechama Goldman Barash to delve into Parshat Lech Lecha. They discuss the complex dynamics between Sarai and Hagar, exploring themes of oppression, empathy, and power. Nechama reflects on Avraham’s journey as he grapples with his role in b

Noach 5785: Navigating Stormy Waters

Oct 28 2024 31 mins  
How can we remain hopeful amid life’s turbulent “floodwaters”? In this week’s Parshat Noach episode, Zvi Hirschfield is joined by Yiscah Smith to explore the relevance of Noah’s story and how, even amid overwhelming turmoil, one can find an “ark” of inner strength and faith. Drawing on the wisdom of Hasidic teachings, they discuss how prayer and deep inner work help

Beresheit 5785: Beginnings and Fractures

Oct 20 2024 38 mins  
This week’s podcast is sponsored by Simonne Abadee in celebration of the beginning of our creation, the new year, and a new reading of our Torah, offering the chance to engage anew in our learning. Ten years ago, Simonne came to Pardes and immersed herself in Torah learning. Through this, a whole new world of life opened up to her. She has chosen to sponsor this episode in recogn

Sukkot 5785: Vulnerability and Joy

Oct 13 2024 27 mins  
How can embracing vulnerability lead to a deeper sense of joy during Sukkot? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy delve into the paradox of Sukkot, exploring how vulnerability and joy are deeply intertwined in the festival. They discuss how the temporary nature of the sukkah highlights the fragility of life and how embracing that fragility can lead to

Yom Kippur 5785: Forgiveness and Growth

Oct 06 2024 28 mins  
What role does vulnerability play in the Yom Kippur process of teshuvah? In this Yom Kippur-focused episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Elisha Ancselovits explore how to approach this sacred day following a year marked by deep pain and loss. They discuss the challenges of asking for forgiveness in the shadow of such suffering and offer guidance on shifting from anger to gratitu

Rosh Hashana 5785: Renewal in Challenging Times

Sep 30 2024 38 mins  
This Rosh Hashana podcast is sponsored by Ricki and Dr. David I. Bernstein in memory of Ricki’s parents, Beatrice and Murray Kirschblat z”l, survivors of Auschwitz and Buchenwald, respectively. Beatrice and Murray were each the sole survivors of large families which perished in the Shoah. Their resilience and courage in building a family after such loss is a powerful testament

Nitzavim – Vayelich 5784: Empowering Leadership

Sep 22 2024 31 mins  
How do words of encouragement shape Joshua’s leadership and the future of the Jewish people? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Aviva Lauer explore Parshat Vayelech, focusing on the leadership transition from Moshe to Yehoshua. Join them and dive into the significance of the repeated phrase "chazak ve’amatz" (be strong and brave) and how Moshe and God empower Yehoshua to ste

Ki Tavo 5784: Collective Responsibility

Sep 15 2024 32 mins  
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Raphael Polisuk delve into the covenant ceremony at Har Grizim and Har Eval in Parshat Ki Tavo. They explore how this moment of blessings and curses establishes a collective responsibility among the Jewish people and its significance as they enter the land. Through classic commentaries, they examine the challenges of building a shared mora