Madlik Podcast – Disruptive Torah Thoughts on Judaism

Purim Unveiling the Hidden Wisdom of Purim: A Feast of Fools for Modern Times As we approach the joyous holiday of Purim, it's time to look beyond the costumes and revelry to uncover the profound lessons this ancient celebration holds for our modern world. In this eye-opening episode of Madlik, we explore the surprising connections between Purim and other global festivals of excess, revealing how these celebrations can transform our perspective on joy, tragedy, and the human experience. The Universal Language of Celebration Did you know that Purim shares striking similarities with Mardi Gras, Carnival, and even the Indian festival of Holi? These seemingly disparate celebrations all occur around the same time of year and share common themes: • Marking the end of winter and the arrival of spring • Indulging in excess food and drink • Wearing elaborate costumes and masks • Temporarily upending social norms and hierarchies This universal impulse to celebrate and "let loose" speaks to a fundamental human need. As Harvey Cox, the esteemed Harvard theologian, argues in his seminal work "Feast of Fools," these festivals serve a crucial purpose in our lives: "Festivity is the way we cool history without fleeing from it." In other words, celebrations like Purim allow us to step back from the intensity of our daily struggles and gain a fresh perspective. They remind us that while we are part of history, we are not solely defined by it. Rethinking Celebration in Times of Tragedy You might be wondering: How can we justify such exuberant celebration when there's so much pain and suffering in the world? Isn't it insensitive or even irresponsible? Here's where Cox's insights offer a powerful reframe: > "Those cultures that are closer to real tragedy, brutality, chaos, failure and death, as well as triumphant compassion, are the ones whose celebrations are deeper." Counterintuitively, it's often the communities most familiar with hardship that have the richest traditions of celebration. This isn't about ignoring pain, but rather about cultivating resilience and maintaining hope in the face of adversity. For those of us grappling with how to celebrate Purim in the wake of recent tragedies, this perspective offers a path forward. Our celebrations can be an act of defiance against despair, a way of affirming life and human connection even in dark times. The Wisdom of "Vinahapechu": Embracing Contradiction One of the central themes of Purim is "vinahapechu" – the idea of things being turned upside down. We're instructed to drink until we can't distinguish between the villain Haman and the hero Mordechai. While this might seem like mere frivolity, there's profound wisdom in this practice. Cox argues that true festivity involves "juxtaposition" – the ability to hold contradictory ideas without trying to resolve them. This mirrors the Talmudic approach of embracing multiple perspectives without forcing a single conclusion. In our polarized world, where people often retreat into echo chambers of like-minded opinions, Purim's lesson of "vinahapechu" is more relevant than ever. It challenges us to: • Question our assumptions • See beyond black-and-white thinking • Find common ground with those who hold different views Practical Ways to Embrace the Spirit of Purim So how can we apply these insights to make our Purim celebrations more meaningful this year? 1. Reflect on resilience: As you celebrate, take a moment to acknowledge the challenges you've overcome. Let your joy be an affirmation of your strength. 2. Reach across divides: Use the holiday as an opportunity to connect with someone you might not normally interact with. The costume tradition can be a great icebreaker! 3. Embrace playfulness: Allow yourself to be silly and let go of self-importance. This "recess from history-making" can actually make you more effective when you return to serious matters. 4. Practice perspective-taking: Try to see things...

In this week's episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, we delve into a fascinating exploration of the tribal structure in biblical Israel. As we unpack the significance of the high priest's breastplate and its representation of the 12 tribes, we uncover a revolutionary social organization that challenges our modern understanding of politics and community. The High Priest's Breastplate: A Symbol of Unity and Representation At the heart of our discussion is the high priest's breastplate, described in Exodus 28. This ornate piece of priestly attire wasn't just a decorative element—it was a powerful symbol of the entire Israelite nation. The breastplate featured 12 precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel. This was a profound representation of a radical social structure God was establishing for His people. "The stone shall correspond in number to the names of the sons of Israel, 12 corresponding to their names. They shall be engraved like seals, each with its name for the 12 tribes." This description emphasizes a crucial point: every tribe had equal representation on the breastplate. There was no hierarchy, no favored position. Each tribe, regardless of size or perceived importance, had its place. Even one missing letter would render it unusable - every tribe mattered. A Radical Departure from City-State Politics To truly appreciate the revolutionary nature of this tribal structure, we need to contrast it with the prevailing political systems of the time. Citing the Biblical scholar Norman Gottwald, we contrast the Greek city-states, for instance, which were based on geographic boundaries and often had different religions and customs within each city. The Israelite tribal system, however, was something entirely different: 1. Unified Ideology: Despite being separate tribes, they were united by a single religious and ethical framework. 2. Primal Legal Community: The confederacy itself was the foundation of their legal system. 3. Military Cooperation: Tribes united for defense and conquest, as seen in various biblical accounts. 4. Social Responsibility: The system encouraged inter-tribal support, such as interest-free lending. This “retribalization” wasn't just different—it was radically egalitarian for its time. It provided a framework for diverse groups to coexist while maintaining their unique identities. The Levites: Glue of the Tribal Confederacy One of the most intriguing aspects of this system was the role of the Biblical narrative stories and the Levites. The shared stories of the Patriarchs and the Exodus created a mythical bond. Unlike the other tribes, the Levites didn't receive a territorial inheritance. Instead, they were scattered throughout the land, serving as idealogues, teachers, priests, and the connective tissue of the nation. The Levites acted as a neutral party, reinforcing the shared heritage and laws across all tribes. Relevance for Today: The Four Tribes of Modern Israel The brilliance of this ancient system becomes even more apparent when we consider its relevance to modern challenges. Former Israeli President Reuven Rivlin's speech about the "four tribes" of contemporary Israel—secular Jews, national religious, Arabs, and Haredim—echoes the challenges and opportunities of the biblical tribal structure. In a world where clear majorities are becoming increasingly rare, the biblical model offers insights into how diverse groups can coexist and cooperate without losing their distinct identities. What We Can Learn from the Tribal Confederacy 1. Equality in Representation: Every group, regardless of size, deserves a voice. 2. Unity Without Uniformity: Shared core values can coexist with diverse practices and beliefs. 3. Distributed Leadership: Preventing the concentration of power in a single group or location. 4. Interconnectedness: Creating systems that encourage interaction and mutual support between different communities. As we...

Ever wondered why we stand when the Torah is taken out? Our latest Madlik episode uncovers the surprising history behind this universal Jewish tradition. Join Rabbi Adam Mintz and Geoffrey Stern as they explore the concept of "Torah on the Move" in this week's parsha, Terumah. We unpack the symbolism behind the Ark of the Covenant and its enduring impact on Jewish tradition. Some highlights: • The origins of Jews being called "People of the Book" • Surprising details about the Mishkan's construction and materials • How the Ark's design emphasized mobility and permanence • What was actually kept inside the Ark (you might be surprised!) • Parallels between ancient practices and modern synagogue rituals We also touch on some unexpected traditions, including an Orthodox community that doesn't always stand when the ark is open. And a personal story about an embarrassing synagogue faux pas that taught an important lesson about honoring the Torah. This episode really opened our eyes to how central the idea of a "moving Torah" is to Jewish identity. I think you'll find it both enlightening and thought-provoking. Here are 3 key insights from our discussion: • The Ark's Mobility: The Torah emphasizes the permanent nature of the Tabernacle's portability, hinting at its enduring significance. • A mobile Icon: Ancient Israelites, like their neighbors, carried sacred texts into war as divine protection and inspiration. • Unifying Ritual: The Torah procession remains a powerful, shared tradition across all Jewish denominations. Discover how this ancient practice connects us to our ancestors and why it's more relevant than ever in today's world. Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/628017

In this week’s episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, we explore how the Torah's legal sections, particularly in Parashat Mishpatim, interact with and transform the legal traditions of the ancient Near East rather than create an original Code of Law. We take this fascinating journey through the lens of Umberto Cassuto, a brilliant biblical scholar whose work has been largely overlooked in modern biblical scholarship. Background and Context The Torah is often viewed as an all-encompassing legal code, dictating every aspect of Jewish life. However, Umberto Cassuto, writing in the newly formed state of Israel, presents a revolutionary perspective. He argues that the Torah's laws should be understood in the context of existing legal traditions in the ancient Near East. Cassuto's approach is groundbreaking. He suggests that to truly understand the Torah's legal sections, we must examine them alongside other ancient legal codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi. This comparison reveals the Torah's unique contributions and its transformative impact on existing legal norms. Key Insights and Takeaways 1. The Torah as a Responsive Document Contrary to the idea that the Torah created a legal system from scratch, Cassuto argues that it responds to and builds upon existing legal traditions. This perspective challenges our understanding of the Torah's role in ancient Israelite society. 2. The Religious Nature of Torah Law While other ancient Near Eastern legal codes were primarily secular, the Torah introduces a religious dimension to law. As Rabbi Adam Mintz points out: "What's surprising in Judaism is the laws come from God. And the reason for that is because they practice monotheism... Monotheism allows for religious law. Idolatry doesn't allow for religious law." 3. Three Ways the Torah Interacts with Existing Laws Cassuto identifies three primary ways the Torah engages with existing legal traditions: - Introducing amendments - Opposing or invalidating certain aspects - Confirming and elevating worthy aspects This nuanced approach shows how the Torah acts as a catalyst for change while acknowledging existing societal norms. 4. The Sanctity of Human Life One of the most significant innovations of Torah law is its emphasis on the sanctity of human life. Geoffrey, quoting Cassuto highlights this point: "The Torah wishes to affirm and establish the principle in the name of divine law that human life is sacred, and whoever assails this sanctity forfeits his own life, measure for measure." This principle leads to more compassionate laws, even for those who have committed crimes. Challenges and Practical Advice 1. Rethinking Biblical Interpretation Cassuto's approach challenges us to reconsider how we interpret biblical texts. By understanding the historical and legal context, we gain new insights into the Torah's teachings. 2. Balancing Tradition and Innovation The Torah's interaction with existing legal codes provides a model for how we can approach societal change today. It shows us how to respect tradition while pushing for ethical improvements. 3. Applying Ancient Wisdom to Modern Challenges Umberto Cassuto's work offers a fresh perspective on the Torah's legal sections. By viewing them in the context of ancient Near Eastern legal traditions, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Torah's innovative and transformative nature as well as it’s limitations. The Torah laws were not meant to replace or undermine all existing norms, customs and social behavior. This approach provides a model for how religious traditions can respect, engage with and elevate societal norms. It challenges us to think critically about the interplay between religious teachings and secular laws in our own time and in general and in the State of Israel, in particular. As we continue to grapple with complex ethical and legal issues in the modern world, the Torah's example of building upon...

The Art of Stealing: Unraveling the Complexities of the Eighth Commandment "Thou shalt not steal" seems straightforward, but is it? This week's episode of Madlik delves into the intricate world of Jewish law and ethics surrounding theft, revealing surprising insights that challenge our assumptions about this fundamental commandment. Background and Context The Ten Commandments are a cornerstone of Judeo-Christian ethics, but their interpretation is far from simple. In this episode, we explore the eighth commandment, "Thou shalt not steal," uncovering layers of meaning that go far beyond the obvious prohibition of theft. Rabbi Adam Mintz and Geoffrey Stern guide us through a fascinating journey, examining rabbinic interpretations that span millennia. From the Talmud to Maimonides, we discover how Jewish scholars have grappled with the concept of stealing, expanding it to encompass a wide range of ethical considerations. Key Insights and Takeaways 1. Kidnapping vs. Theft Contrary to popular belief, the rabbis interpreted "Thou shalt not steal" in the Ten Commandments as referring specifically to kidnapping, not theft of property. This interpretation stems from the context of the other commandments, which deal with capital offenses. > "Scripture here is speaking about a case of one who steals human beings, whilst the command in Leviticus, 'you shall not steal,' speaks about a case of one who steals money from another person's property." - Rashi This distinction highlights the gravity with which Jewish law views the theft of a person's freedom, placing it on par with murder and adultery. 2. The Spectrum of Stealing While the Ten Commandments may focus on kidnapping, Jewish law expands the concept of stealing to cover a wide range of actions: - Theft of property - Deception (geneivat da'at) - Stealing sleep (gezel sheina) - Unfair business practices - Plagiarism This broad interpretation encourages us to consider how our actions might "steal" from others in less obvious ways. 3. The Psychology of Stealing Maimonides warns against stealing even in jest or with the intention to return the item: > "It is forbidden to steal as a jest, to steal with the intent to return, or to steal with the intent to pay, lest one habituate oneself to such conduct." This perspective emphasizes the importance of cultivating ethical habits and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety. 4. The Social Impact of Theft Nachmanides (Ramban) connects the prohibition against stealing to the broader social fabric: "If you do any one of the Thou Shalt nots in the second tablet, you are breaking the social network that is formed by saying God created everyone in His image, and your parents are partners in that." This interpretation encourages us to view ethical behavior not just as individual actions, but as part of maintaining a harmonious society. Challenges and Practical Advice 1. Redefining Theft in the Modern World As our world becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, we face new challenges in defining and preventing theft. Consider: - Intellectual property rights - Data privacy - Time theft in the workplace Action Step: Reflect on your digital interactions. Are there ways you might be "stealing" that you haven't considered before? 2. Cultivating Ethical Habits Maimonides' warning about habituating oneself to stealing applies to many areas of life. How can we build positive ethical habits? - Practice mindfulness in your interactions with others - Regularly reflect on your actions and their potential impact - Seek feedback from trusted friends or mentors on your ethical conduct 3. Balancing Intent and Impact The rabbinic discussions highlight the complexity of ethical decision-making. Sometimes, good intentions can lead to harmful outcomes. Challenge: Think of a situation where you tried to help someone but may have inadvertently caused harm or discomfort. How could you approach similar situations differently...

The Maidservant's Vision: Redefining Jewish Experience and Philosophy Our latest Madlik Disruptive Torah episode challenges conventional wisdom about Jewish history and philosophy. Exploring the concept of "root experiences," we delve into how a simple maidservant's vision at the Red Sea can reshape our understanding of Jewish thought and practice. Background and Context The episode centers on Parashat B'shalach, specifically the Song of the Sea in Exodus 15:1. This iconic moment in Jewish history is recited daily in morning prayers, underscoring its significance. Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz examine various interpretations of this passage, focusing on a particular Midrash that claims a maidservant at the Red Sea saw more than even the greatest prophets. This seemingly innocuous Midrash becomes the springboard for a profound discussion on post-Holocaust Jewish philosophy, drawing on the works of Emil Fackenheim, Martin Buber, Elie Wiesel, and Yitz Greenberg. Key Insights and Takeaways 1. The Power of Collective Experience The episode emphasizes the unique aspect of Jewish tradition that values collective experience over individual revelation. Unlike other religions founded on the visions of a single prophet, Judaism's foundational moments involve the entire community. This perspective challenges us to reconsider the importance of communal participation in religious and cultural experiences. 2. Redefining historical perspective and theology The Midrash's assertion that a maidservant saw more than the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel challenges traditional hierarchies of religious knowledge. It suggests that direct experience can trump even the most sublime visions. Geoffrey explains Fackenheim's interpretation: "After the Holocaust, we can no longer run away from those... inconvenient truths of good and evil, those inconvenient truths of what happened to God's chosen people. We cannot escape into the world of philosophy and Kabbalah." This idea invites us to question our assumptions about wisdom and authority, especially in the face of profound historical events. 3. The Concept of "Root Experiences" Fackenheim introduces the idea of "root experiences" - pivotal moments in Jewish history that shape the collective consciousness. These experiences are characterized by: - Involvement of the multitude - Transformation of earthly reality, not just heavenly visions - Ongoing impact on future generations - Inspiring action and change This framework offers a new lens through which to view Jewish history and tradition, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of past events. Challenges and Practical Advice 1. Embracing Contradiction Fackenheim argues that Jewish thought, particularly Midrashic thinking, thrives on contradiction. Rather than seeking to resolve these tensions, we should embrace them as reflective of the complex nature of human experience. Fackenheim writes: "Midrashic thinking cannot resolve the contradictions in the root experience of Judaism, but actually expresses them. Midrashic thought, therefore, is both fragmentary and whole." This perspective challenges us to move beyond black-and-white thinking and embrace the nuances of our traditions and experiences. 2. Balancing Tradition and Contemporary Challenges The episode grapples with the challenge of honoring Jewish tradition while remaining responsive to modern realities. Fackenheim warns against making Judaism "absolutely immune to all future events except Messianic ones," arguing that this approach dismisses the challenges of contemporary events. Instead, we're encouraged to engage with our traditions in a way that allows for growth and adaptation in response to new circumstances. 3. Redefining the Importance of Historical Events The discussion suggests that the literal historical accuracy of events like the splitting of the Red Sea may be less important than how these stories have shaped Jewish consciousness over time. Geoffrey explains:...

This week on Madlik, we're diving into a fascinating exploration of the Jewish calendar - a topic that's not just about marking time, but about renewal, liberation, and the very essence of what it means to be Jewish. In our discussion of Parashat Bo, Rabbi Mintz and I unpack the significance of the first commandment given to the Israelites as a nation: establishing their own calendar. We examine how this seemingly simple act was actually a radical departure from other ancient calendars, and how it embodied core Jewish values of human agency and imperfection. Some highlights from our conversation: - Why the lunar-solar Jewish calendar was seen as revolutionary by other cultures - The deeper meaning behind witnessing the new moon - How the Essenes and early Muslims viewed the Jewish calendar - The beautiful tension between divine perfection and human imperfection in our timekeeping This episode really drove home for me how our calendar reflects so much about our worldview as Jews. I hope it sparks some thoughtful reflection for you too. Tune in for a mind-expanding journey through time, Torah, and Jewish thought! Please also be sure and give the Sefaria Source Sheet Link in the notes: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/620499

Have you ever wondered why we don't raise our hands during prayer in Judaism? It's a question that might seem trivial at first, but as we explored in our latest Madlik episode, it opens up a fascinating world of gesture, ritual, and cultural evolution. As I sat watching the presidential inauguration, I couldn't help but notice the raised hand during the oath of office. This simple gesture, so commonplace in our civic life, is surprisingly absent from our religious practice. Why is that? And what can we learn from the rich tradition of hand gestures in our biblical texts? In our conversation with Rabbi Adam Mintz, we delved into the surprising prevalence of hand gestures in the Torah. Did you know that the Hebrew Bible has the richest source of gesture phrases of any ancient Near Eastern religion or literature? It's true! From Aaron lifting his rod to God's promise of redemption with an outstretched arm, our sacred texts are filled with powerful non-verbal communication. But here's the kicker: despite this rich heritage, hand gestures are virtually non-existent in modern Jewish ritual and prayer. It's a stark contrast that begs the question: what happened?

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the nativity of Moses in Parashat Shemot. Delving into the dramatic birth story of the Jewish people’s greatest leader, we uncover parallels with other ancient “savior” narratives, includoing a home bathed in light, three wise men, astologers reading the stars, danger, murder, flight and return of the hero. The birth story of Moses clearly mirrors other “savior” narratives, including those of Abraham and Jesus, highlighting its broader cultural significance. Why does this pivotal tale seem isolated within the larger Exodus narrative? We discuss the tension between hero worship and the emphasis on collective redemption… all while pondering the significance of what’s left unsaid in the Torah’s account. Discover how this foundational story sets the stage for the epic journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/617755 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/01/16/the-nativity-of-moses/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iJQldtucNxU

This week on Madlik, we're diving into a fascinating topic that's close to my heart - grandparenting in Jewish tradition. Our discussion centers around the iconic blessing Jacob gives to his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh in Parashat Vayechi. I'm excited to share some insights I've never noticed before about this pivotal moment. We'll explore how Jacob essentially adopts his grandsons, saying "they shall be mine," and what this reveals about intergenerational relationships in our tradition. We'll also look at how this blessing became so central in Jewish practice, being recited every Friday night to bless our children. I was struck by how much depth there is to unpack here about the unique role grandparents can play. As always, Rabbi Adam Mintz joins me for this illuminating conversation. And in a bit of perfect timing, he had some exciting personal news to share related to our topic! I hope you'll tune in for this meaningful discussion on the power of grandparenting to shape Jewish identity and values across generations. The insights we uncovered really made me see this familiar blessing in a new light. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/615769 Transcript on episode webpage: https://wordpress.com/post/madlik.com/5667 Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NDz8du4I_GM

This week on Madlik, we’re exploring how Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers offers profound insights for our own lives. At a time when many of us make resolutions and fresh starts, this episode couldn’t be more timely. We’ll examine how Joseph and his brothers navigate the complex dynamics of forgiveness, rehabilitation, and moving from a paradigm of grievance and victimhood to challenge and opportunity… Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz discuss the psychological aspects of sin and redemption, drawing parallels to our own experiences with failure and the challenge of moving forward. We’ll also touch on the fascinating concept of “making lemonade from lemons” and its American/Jewish roots and the contribution of Julius Rosenwald and the Tuskegee Institute. Whether you’re grappling with personal setbacks or seeking inspiration for the year ahead, this episode offers valuable insights on turning adversity into opportunity and embracing a narrative of ambition and success. Join us for another thought-provoking discussion that bridges ancient wisdom with modern life. Remember, whatever your resolutions may be, stumbling once or twice doesn’t define you – it’s how you harness those moments that truly matters. Shabbat Shalom and Happy New Year Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/614569 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/01/03/making-lemonade-from-lemons/ View episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/WE3Jd7otrCk

This Shabbat Hanukah Madlik episode explores the intriguing parallels between John Lennon's iconic song "Imagine" and traditional Jewish concepts. Delving into the Shabbat zemirot "Ma Yedidut," Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz uncover surprising connections between Lennon's utopian vision and Judaism's aspirational views of Shabbat and the World to Come. The discussion challenges the notion that Judaism is solely particularistic, revealing its universal and redemptive aspects while also recognizing the conecpt of preferential love. How does the Jewish tradition balance particularism with universalism? Discover the unexpected interplay between modern secular ideals and ancient Jewish wisdom. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/613636 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/27/imagine-and-the-jews/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u6xn990AcCw

This week on Madlik, we’re diving into Parashat Vayeshev and exploring the Joseph story through a unique lens. Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we unpack this pivotal narrative that bridges Genesis and Exodus. We’ll be taking a hard look at the uncomfortable truth at the heart of this parasha: human trafficking. It’s not just about Joseph in Egypt – we’re talking about the profound implications of ethnic groups selling their own people into slavery. We’ll also examine how this story fits into the broader context of biblical literature. Is it a court legend? Wisdom literature? Or something entirely different? Plus, we’ll discuss how the sale of Joseph has echoed through Jewish tradition, from Yom Kippur liturgy to modern-day rituals. It’s an approach that might break the oppressor/oppressed lense used by so many today. Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/612024 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/19/joseph-slave-trade/ Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QkhOPS54nfc

From the first chapters of Genesis, when Adam named the animals, naming in the Biblical narrative is a powerful tool which defines destiny. This process reaches a climax with the re-naming of Jacob and the birth of Israel. Although "Israel" is normally translated as "struggling with God" we explore other meanings that align more powerfully with the metamorphosis that Yaakov experiences. Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the nuances of this name Israel, that until today defines and inspires the Jewish People and their land. Sefaria source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/610333 Transcript: https://madlik.com/2024/12/13/what-israel-means/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xQt2m7poFCE

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz for another week of Madlik Disruptive Torah. We explore the biblical narratives surrounding Jacob and Abraham, the sanctity of places in the Ancient Near East and Jewish tradition, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in contemporary discussions about Jerusalem. The conversation highlights the deep connections between history, identity, and spirituality, emphasizing the importance of understanding the layers of meaning associated with sacred sites. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/608262 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/05/scaling-the-temple-mount/ Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/RHv0rHLtqXs

Are we defined by our names or by the stories we tell? We explore Parashat Toldot, diving into the intricate relationships between the Philistines and ancient Israelites "up until today." Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz in a conversation that highlights the melting pot of cultures in ancient Israel. We reveal that the Philistines, like the Hittites and Hebrews, were newcomers to the land and for the most part contributed culturally and integrated well. When friction arose, they willingly separated and made agreements that showcased mutual recognition and trust. In a week that the 2024 cease fire between Israel and Lebanon is consummated and we in the US celebrate Thanksgiving we wonder what lessens from the past we can take to guide us in these challenging times. Check out the Sefaria Source sheet here: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/606744 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/28/the-philistinians-and-the-israelites/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cbPen_DRgmo

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz discussing the weekly Torah portion. What happens when ancient narratives of trauma echo through generations? This episode of "Madlik Disruptive Torah" delves into the parsha Chayei Sara, exploring the post-traumatic impact of the attempted sacrifice of Isaac. Through the lens of Jewish, Islamic and contemporary literature, we examine the emotional and familial fallout experienced by Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Isaac, and Ishmael. They pose intriguing questions: Did Abraham and Sarah live apart after the Akedah? Where did Isaac go after the attempted sacrifice by his father and how did he relate to his half-brother Ishmael and step-mother Hagar? How did Isaac's near-sacrifice shape his life? The discussion weaves historical context with contemporary reflections, drawing parallels to modern-day conflicts and shared traumas. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/605334 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/21/the-day-after/ View on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jf-oCqMqbco

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz in conversation regarding the weekly Torah portion. What happens when language becomes both a bridge and a barrier? In this episode of the "Madlik Disruptive Torah Podcast," the duo delves into Parashat Noah, exploring the Tower of Babel's tale and its implications on linguistic diversity. They unravel how the division of languages shaped rabbinic texts and Jewish tradition, posing questions about unity and communication. Discover how ancient narratives explain modern phenomena, and consider the power of translation in preserving and transforming sacred texts. Is the multiplicity of languages a divine gift or a source of chaos? Explore the Sefaria source sheet www.sefaria.org/sheets/599916 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/10/31/words-without-borders/ Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KtJ-aPx1Kfc?si=zNV9Fdfj6lT_UCSA

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as they explore the creation myth. There are those who would have us believe that in Creation, God made unity from chaos and that the Torah’s end game is to find that unity, tikkun and nirvana once again. We explore an alternative, counterfactual approach, where God created through division and with a goal of creating a world where divisions are emphasized, managed but definitely not erased. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/598674 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/10/24/splitting-the-adam/

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz where we explore the Biblical creation myth. There are those who would have us believe that in Creation, God made unity from chaos and that the Torah’s end game is to find that unity, that tikkun, that nirvana once again. We explore an alternative, counterfactual approach, where God created through division and with a goal of creating a world where divisions are emphasized, managed but definitely not erased. Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/598674 Transcript on episode web page: