Matmonim: Daf Yomi by Rabbi David Lapin

There are two patterns of existence. A meta-pattern and a sub-pattern. The Meta is the unfolding of history according to Hashems grand scheme. We have little or no control over it. We can sense it and choose to actualize it, we can ignore it, we can engage in it or we can try to oppose it. The sub-patterns are the midah kenegged midah - the "karma" of our own actions. This episode explai...

The way we reason in Halachik matters needs to be very pure and technically accurate. The way we live Halacha needs both to be technically accurate and also full of meaning and inspiring of ethical growth. A halachik life cannot be divorced from a moral and ethical life.

Tahara (purity) and Kedusha (sanctity) or different concepts as explained in this episode.

We explore the "magical" power of the Tztitz - the golden plate that the Kohein Gadol wore across his forehead and also the idea of uninterrupted attentiveness.

The Talmud deals with many abstract ideas, but when it comes to Halachik decisions, current relevance is paramount. Why?

We explore three interpretations of the Gemarra dealing with restrictions on information sharing, The Chafetz |Chaim, the Rambam and the Meiri.

This episode explores the idea of preparation for a transformative . We track the origin of the idea that the Kohein Gadol needs to be secluded for a week before Yom Kippur.

When trying to mitigate an insignificant  statistical risk translates into an absurd outcome, don't even go there!

There are times when we cannot fulfil our obligations or live our values in the fullness of their ideals. In these situations it is important not to abandon the mitzva or the value entirely but rather to fulfil it as best we can under the circumstances.

The Tiferet Yisrael questions the veracity of the common undersatanding of the Mishna's statement that the two Parochot in the Beit Mikdash were replaced annually. He innovates a more rational explanation and supports it with authentic sources.

This episode examines some of the halachik methodology to resolving dilemma and making choices:  Differentiate between "I am in doubt," and "there is a doubt." Differentiate between a statistic and a norm There is no need for data when common sense and intuition  make the choice clear.

This episode goes to the essence of the idea of Korbanot (sacrificial service) by analyzing the nature of the wood offerings. It explains sacrifices as the antithesis of idolatry. 

מעלין בקודש ואין מורדין

Analyzing a Rambam we extrapolate the two models of leadership and how to synthesize them.

We have learnt how important it is not only to be correct but to be seen to  correct as well. However when the dignity of others is in question, it is more important to preserve their dignity than to be concerned about ones own reputation.

הפוך בה הפוך בה, דכולי בה  This means that by examining Torah ideas from every one of their facets, you can discover the foundational ideas of every discipline in the world. In this episode we discover how the debate around the gold standard is a part of a discussion in the Talmud and its interpretation by two great medieval authorities. 

We are usually quite careful about checking the integrity of individuals or causes to whom we give financial support. In this episode we learn the importance of checking the integrity of donors as well and the purity of their contributions and intentions.

Although a Kohein is born with inherent Kedusha, as with all things of Kedusha it cannot be accessed unless we create the conditions for accessing it. These conditions entail Kavod - honor.

Nearly 1000 years before the story of Purim and the evil Haman, Hashem inoculated His people against Haman's plot. It all started on the first day of Adar in the desert.

Time specific events are unique, because even when they occur repeatedly we, and the world around us, are not in the same places we were the first time. The same applies to time-specific opportunities. The Beracha of Shehecheyanu sensitizes us to this focus. The Shehecheyanu of the Seder is unusually unique. THis episode explores why.

Many mitzvot in the Torah have specific times during which they need to be performed. Of course the mitvot of Pesach night need to be done on the night of Nissan the 15th. The question is whether we have all night to do them, or whether they should be completed by midnight. This episode opens up a 2,000 year conversation about this timing and also touches on managing procrastination!