Pardes from Jerusalem

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 the power of selfless...

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 address social and ethic...

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 bringing godliness to...

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 us face challenges while remain...

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 recognition of Pardes fo...

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 a deeper connect...

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 gratitude. Through thoug...

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 to their strength. M...

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 step into his new role....

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 moral framework and...

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Michael Hattin explore the mitzvah of Shiluach HaKen (sending away the mother bird) in Parshat Ki Teitzei. They discuss how this seemingly small commandment reflects deeper values of compassion and limits on consumption. Through classical commentaries, they examine how this mitzvah helps cultivate sensitivity, balancing kindness towards animals and ethica...

How does the Torah guide us in creating balanced and just leadership? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Nechama Goldman Barash explore Parshat Shoftim, delving into the Torah's vision for leadership and governance. They discuss the various models of leadership presented in the parsha—from judges to kings—and how these roles are meant to balance power and ensure justice. Drawing on historical ex...

How do our perceptions, whether clear or confused, impact our understanding of Torah and our relationships? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Brent Chaim Spodek explore Parshat Re'eh, focusing on the intriguing and often perplexing laws of kashrut. They delve into the deeper meanings behind these dietary laws, particularly the curious differences between similar verses in the different Pa...

How can a single word in the Torah guide us toward deeper spiritual understanding? In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Yizcah Smith dive into Parshat Ekev, exploring the profound spiritual insights hidden within the word "Ekev." They discuss how the rabbis and sages have drawn out layers of meaning from this one word, uncovering its significance in both ancient and modern contexts. The conversati...

Why does Moshe mix harsh rebuke with a profound sense of hope in his final speech? In this episode, Tzvi Hirschfield and Tovah Leah Nachmani delve into Parashat Va'etchanan and into the complex layers of Moshe’s final message, where deep love for the people intertwines with stern rebukes. They explore how Moshe uses the powerful imagery of fire at Mount Sinai, the retelling of the Ten Commandments...

What can a giant teach us about overcoming obstacles and building a better society? In this episode, Tzvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Haim Shalom delve into the Parsha of Devarim, highlighting the significance of Moshe's speeches as the Jewish people stand on the brink of entering the land of Canaan. They discuss the fascinating detail of Og, the giant king, and what his story teaches us about overcomin...

What happens when a collective seeks fulfillment outside the promised land? In this episode, Rabbi Tzvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Leon Morris delve into the intriguing narrative of the two and a half tribes—Reuven, Gad, and half of Menashe—who choose to settle outside the land of Canaan after the Israelite conquests. They discuss the implications of their decision, Moshe's reaction, and the broader th...

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 applicati...

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...

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...

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 c...

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...

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 t...

How does our unique role strengthen the Jewish communities?  In this episode, Rabbi Tzvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Michael Hatton delve into Parshat Naso, highlighting the importance of each person's contributions to the community. They discuss how the counting of the Jewish people and repetitive sacrifices emphasize individual roles while promoting communal unity. The conversation also examines moder...

How does the Jewish people's journey through the desert shape our approach to Torah? In this week’s episode, Rabbi Leon Morris and Rabbi Tzvi Hirschfield explore the theme of openness in Torah study, using the wilderness in the Midbar as a metaphor for the mindset required. Drawing from the Midrash and personal experiences, they explore the concept of being "hefker" or ownerless, and allowing Tora...