- Publisher |
- Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein
- Media Type |
- audio
- Podknife tags |
- History,
- Judaism,
- Religion & Spirituality
- Categories Via RSS |
- History,
- Judaism,
- Religion & Spirituality
These podcasts integrate his broad knowledge of many different facets of Torah and History.
Join in weekly to gain accurate and in depth knowledge of some of the most important and controversial topics in Jewish History.
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at Jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
This podcast currently has no reviews.
Submit ReviewIn this episode we look at the Eichmann capture. What exact part did Eichmann play in the Holocaust? Why is he more clearly identified with the Holocaust than his boss Kaltenbrunner? What fatal errors did he make that lead to his capture? Why was he the one captured and not Mengele?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the importance of the Sassoon Codex. The Sassoon Codex is going to be auctioned by Sotheby’s May 16. The estimated opening bid is 30 million. What is a Codex? Who was Sassoon? Why is this book identified with him?
What makes this sefer so important? Are there any new revelations that we can expect to see in this Codex? How do we understand the differences in learning in the time before the printing press? How rare were sefarim before this?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the challenge of truly relating to The Exodus. Why are we so challenged? What can we do to deal with the challenge? What are the key lessons of the Exodus? What is the underlying issue that this illustrates?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at some of the other key reasons that Chassidus had more success in countering Haskala than Hisnagdus. What is the difference in the way the Chassidim see their Rebbes and the way Rabanim were classically looked at. How did this change help Chassidus successfully counter Haskala?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the key reasons Chassidus was able to successfully counter the Haskala. What key innovation did Chassidus have that helped them counter Haskala? What is the difference between the way the Vilna Gaon responded to Haskala and the way Chassidus responded to Haskala? When donthe first mentions of Haskala in Chassidus occur?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the well known statement that Chassidus had better response to Haskala than Hisnagdus. How many factors were there in Czarist Russia that contributed to a toxic sociological atmosphere? How do we understand the effects of the cultural milieu of Eastern European Jewry on basic levels of observance in the nineteenth century?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take another look at the proper place of Psychology in terms of Torah. We also briefly look at how some of the core challenges created by contemporary society.
We start looking at the response of Chassidus to Haskala. It is commonly said that the Chassidim had a better response to Haskala than the Misnagdim. How factual is this statement? What factors do we have to look at to understanding this issue?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the overlap between Mishley and Psychology. How much overlap is there? Does classic academia address the overlap? How do we view this from a Torah perspective? What are the key differences between Mishley and Psychology?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at more of the Vilna Gaon’s response to rationalistic thought. Should we completely avoid rational thought? Is there a place that the rational approach is absolutely necessary? Is there a difference between how the Vilna Gaon addresses these issues and how the classics address these issues?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a closer look at early Jewish reaction to the Enlightenment. We also look at a couple of the places that the Vilna Gaon seems to be referring to one of the key Enlightenment thinkers, Rousseau. We similarly look at a place where the Vilna Gaon clearly refers to the early Maakilim.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the general context of early response to Enlightenment and Haskala. When did response to Enlightenment begin? What is the basic Torah framework for proper response to challenges? How much of an issue is Haskala today?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this week’s episode we take a more careful look at the relationship between Prophecy and the Mikdash. Is there anyway to show the two are related? What do we learn from this about the basic structure of Prophecy? Similarly, we examine the relationship between Nach and Kabbala.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the place the Rambam has in terms of understanding Prophecy. How important is Proohecy in Torah? How widely accepted are the Rambam’s opinions about Prophecy? Does the general issue of rationalists vs mysticists affect this issue?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the source of the controversy surrounding the Rambam. Was the Rambam the most controversial person in Jewish History? What made the Rambam so controversial? Is there a simple rule about how to properly understand Agadita and Midrashim?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at more of R Elimelech’s teachings. One of R Elimelech’s most important works was his Tzetil and Customs. What is the difference between the Tzetil and the Customs? What is the difference between how Chassidus understands the ultimate Torah accomplishment and how the Vilna Gaon understands it? What was R Elimelech’s contribution in this controversy? What was R' Elimelech’s stance on learning Kabbala? Is there a connection between going to a Mikva and Shabtai Tzvi?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a closer look at why R Elimelech is identified with Lizhensk. We also look at when the Galitziner identity came into being. We look at how Chassidus changes the concept of a Tzaddik, and specifically R Elimelech’s contributions to this. We also take another look at R Elimelech’s famed exile and what how it differed from the classic mechanism of exile.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the key challenges that started in the Chanuka confrontation between the Greeks and the Jews. What is the difference between the conflict with the Greeks and previous ones? When did debate between the Greeks and the Jews begin? How is the contemporary culturally based challenges connected to the Greek discovery of science?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at how to determine a new idea’s validity in greater Torah terms. We also look at the basic types of opposition to Chassidus. How long was Chassidus considered by its opponents to be some form of Sabbatianism? We also examine the basic changes in communal structure in the last two hundred years. We also look at R Elimelech’s famed exile and some of the legendary stories that happened.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at R Elimelech of Lizenshk early life. How did someone from the Tiktin area become the primary leader of Chassidus in Galicia? How long did he live in Lizenshk? How did he become a Chassid?
We also look at why the Besht made happiness an integral part of Chassidus. We also at the basic historical outline of the Schindler story.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a quick look at the basic structure of Kabbala and the place of the Ari in Kabbala. We take a quick overview of what the Besht’s innovations in Kabbala and Avodas Hashem were. We also look how to define spirituality and what is the difference between the way Chassidus and Hisnagdus views spirituality.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the challenge of being involved in conflict and the basic pattern of conflict. We take a quick look at the basic historical outline of the events of the Besht and Magid of Mezritch. When did they live? Who were their primary talmidim? Why is the Magid of Mezritch considered the Besht’s primary student?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at one of the other challenges in understanding Jewish History, the Jewish Historians. The early Jewish Historians were either of German background or Marxist background. This generally speaking created clear cultural or political attitude that was usually projected onto their work.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the basic challenge of Historical objectivity. We also look at the specific challenge of objectivity in Jewish History. Are there any factors that specifically complicate the challenge of objectivity in Jewish History?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the famed statement of R Kook that there is a relationship between Spinoza’s pantheistic ideas and the Besht’s ideas. How do we understand this? Does this fit in to the classic way the Besht’s ideas are understood? We also look at the controversy about is it proper to allow someone to make a documentary in the synagogue that Spinoza was excommunicated in.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a deeper look at the relationship between National Identity and Religion. How was this classically understood in the world? We also look at how this specifically applies to the Jews. How long did it take for Spinoza’s plea for tolerance to become accepted? How did this affect the Jews in Europe?
Ben Gurion and other Zionist thinkers claimed to be inspired by Spinoza. How much is there in common between them? Did Ben Gurion’s policy with the religious and charedi have to do with Spinoza’s plea for tolerance?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at one of Spinoza’s most important historical contributions, his appeal for religious tolerance. Spinoza was the first major figure to call for religious tolerance. This eventually evolved into separation of Church and State. How did this change the way people understand national identity? Is there any natural connection between religion and National identity?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEY
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we conclude looking at Spinoza’s philosophy of Determinism, and the Torah response to this idea. One of the broad life phenomenon that reflects man’s free will is the quest for the morality and moral perfection. How broad is this phenomenon?
One of the other places we see man’s free will is via prayer, and the basic challenge of having proper intention when praying. What is the basic structure of having proper intentions? Are there parts of Shemone Esray that are more important to have intention?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Koheles.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we continue looking at the basic flaws in Spinoza’s philosophy of determinism. One of the key examples of deep and complicated Divine Providence is from The Battle of Britain.
We also look at the very deep phenomenon of Drive for Justice. How did Spinoza see this issue? Is the quest for Justice a psychological phenomenon? Or is it deeper rooted than this?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this week’s episode we look at the basic structure of Rosh HaShana. What is the basic structure of the Divine Judgement on Rosh HaShana?
We also look at some of the most important lessons from the life of Elizabeth II. Was there any level of power that she had? What was the most important principle guiding her public life? Is there anything for us to learn from this?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a deeper look at Determinism and why Einstein was specifically attracted to this philosophy. We also take a deeper look at the Torah perspective on this issue. We also look at the phenomenon of the Fragility of Human History and how this should affect the philosophy of Determinism.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the conundrum of assimilated Jews and national identity. How much was this a factor in Einstein’s life? How much was Einstein challenged professionally by his being Jewish? How did he react to this?
We start looking at one of the key reasons Einstein was attracted to Spinoza’s philosophy, Spinoza’s approach of determinism. Is there a difference between why Einstein held of this philosophy and why Spinoza held of this philosophy?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
Spinoza and modern philosophy claims to be rational. How do we define rationalism from a Torah perspective? What was the Rambam’s approach to this issue?
Einstein quite explicitly said that he was influenced by Spinoza. Is there any significant difference between Einstein’s cultural milieu and Spinoza’s? We take a quick look at Einstein’s life to properly understand this.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at one of Spinoza’s key legacies, creation of a secular world. The contemporary world in a cultural fashion is thoroughly secular. What was Spinoza’s key conceptual idea that brought about this change?
We also briefly look at some of Spinoza’s spiritual fruit, Biblical Criticism. How pertinent is this issue today? Why was this once a major issue?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a careful look at the phenomenon of Avoda Zara. What was Avoda Zara? Is the classic translation of Avoda Zara as idol worship accurate? Was there any basic logic to Avoda Zara, or was it rank superstition? Is there a historical connection between the decline of Avoda Zara and the rise of modern science?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a more deeper look at the issues that Spinoza raised about authorship in Tanach.
How would this fit into Jewish History? What basic flaw does this have from the broader picture of Jewish History?
We also look at the crisis of Emuna which has clearly existed for at least one hundred years. In order to have a better understanding of this we take a careful look at the famed story of the Chafetz Chaim and the dibbuk. Did all of those involved see the story as authentic? Should one use this story in terms of Emuna?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at how we react to Tisha B’Av. How are we supposed to react to the Churban? Is there anything constructive and positive to do about this? Is going up to Har haBayis a proper response? What should our attitude be towards Har haBayis? What would the ideal policy be for the State of Israel about the Har haBayis?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a closer look at Spinoza’s claims about the Ibn Ezra. What was the Ibn Ezra’s attitude to Chazal? How does the Ibn Ezra demonstrate the existence and substantialness of the Oral Torah. How does this relate to Spinoza’s theories about the Torah? What was Spinoza’s theory about authorship of the Torah? What are the clear flaws in this theory?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at some of Spinoza’s key questions on the authenticity of Tanach. How original were his questions? How much before Spinoza should we assume that these questions were being raised? Do Chazal deal with any of these questions? How should this affect how we view these style questions? We also look at the claim that the Ibn Ezra is the source for the opinion that Moshe isn’t the sole author of the Torah. We closely examine the, ‘secret of the twelve’.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a closer look at one of Spinoza’s most fundamental mistakes. Spinoza criticized Tanach because he wasn’t able to apply Euclidean style logic to the narrative of Tanach. This however is a deep philosophical error. There is an area of Tanach that has mathematical style rules. However most of Tanach and drashos Chazal use a different form of logic. Why is this true? What can we learn about the way the Torah sees the world from this phenomenon?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the issue of how to respond to heresy. How has this issue been dealt with traditionally? What type of response is appropriate? Who came up with the argument that faith is a matter of the heart?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MISHLEI.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this week’s episode we take a deeper look at why the Rambam’s opinion about defining heresy should be considered the most definitive one. We also take a deeper look at the issue of Jewish identity and how it applies today. We also start to look at Spinoza’s first printed work, the Theological Political Treatise. Spinoza was aware of the danger of printing the treatise. Did he precautionary moves accomplish what he wanted to accomplish?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a deeper look at the issue of Spinoza’s Jewish identity. Spinoza claimed not to be Jewish. What can we learn about this issue from his reaction to the Shabtai Tzvi story? We also look at how Spinoza reacted to the accusations of atheism. How did he react to this? What can we learn from his reaction?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we start by reviewing the basic outline of Spinoza’s life until this point. We look at his stay in Rijnsburg and his relationship with DeVries. We also look at Spinoza’s next step, his move to Voorsburg. We also look at how his colleagues viewed his statement that he didn’t consider himself to be Jewish.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at one of the most important historical events, the printing of Shas. When were the first volumes of Shas printed? Where were they printed? How long did it take for the entirety of Shas to be printed? Why did it take so long for the entirety of Shas to be printed? When did the text of Shas become standardized? How do we relate to the different textual variations of Shas?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at how to relate the Torah’s understanding of abortion to the current debate in American society about abortion. Is it possible to say that Torah is pro choice? What can we learn about the basic fabric of contemporary society from the way these events are unfolding?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a deeper look at why there is a deeper challenge of focus in contemporary society. Why does contemporary society generally ignore any discussion of ultimate human accomplishment. What are the main factors in gaining human accomplishment? How deeply has contemporary society been affected in this issue? Similarly, we also discuss why it is important to specifically study Spinoza and his historical legacy.
We also discuss the phenomenon of generational trauma.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the ultimate philosophical quest, understanding what is man and what is ultimate human accomplishment. How did the classic Philosophers understand this? Did Descartes and Spinoza’s revolutionary changes to Philosophy change this issue? What do contemporary thinkers say about this topic? How does the Torah deal with this issue?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we take a deeper look at the proper context of Cartesian Philosophy. We also examine why Enlightenment Philosophers were so challenged by determining reality. How have things changed today? What is the Torah perspective on these issues?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHOFTIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the most critical contextual factor in understanding Spinoza’s legacy. There is broad consensus that modern philosophy starts with Rene Descartes. What were Descartes' key ideas that completely changed the world of thought? Why was there so much opposition to Descartes? What part does Spinoza play in these epochal changes?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHIR HASHIRIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at some of the keys lessons of the Holocaust. Why should we remember the Holocaust? Is remembering the Holocaust a way to prevent a future tragedy? Was the Holocaust the greatest tragedy in Jewish History? Is there something that makes the Holocaust a unique crime?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHIR HASHIRIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
The War of Gog and Magog is a topic that most people, even those with solid Torah knowledge are confused about. Who is Gog? Who or what is Magog? Why are people so confused about Gog and Magog? Does the Russian Ukrainian war that is happening have anything to do with it? How do we understand the statements attributed to the Vilna Gaon about Russia?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHIR HASHIRIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at how to practically implement the lessons of Rav Chaim Kanievsky’s legendary knowledge into our lives. What practical steps can we take that will get us on the way to knowing all of Torah. We also look at the legendary stories surrounding R Chaim Kanievsky זצ"ל. How do we understand them? What can we learn from them?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning SHIR HASHIRIM.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at Rav Chaim זצ״ל and his broad appeal to all segments of Jewry in Israel. What was special about R Chaim? Why were so many parts of the Jewish World able to appreciate the loss? When was the last time this happened?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the deeper significance of the changes in how our world looks at Philosophy. How much effort does the educated world out into Philosophy? What can we learn from this? What does this tell us about mankind in a general way. We also look at Spinoza’s major step after leaving the Jewish community learning Latin. Why was it necessary for him to learn Latin?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at what was motivating Spinoza to his major life decision. We also examine the difference between how the term philosophy was understood in Spinoza’s times and how it is understood today? What was the original meaning of the term? When was the distinction made between philosophy and science? We also examine what Spinoza did after he was ejected from the Jewish community.
The episode starts with a short appreciation of R Chaim Kanievsky.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at why Spinoza’s philosophy affected the Western world so deeply. We examine the fundamental differences between the way Judaism and Christianity respond to questions. And similarly we will examine the deep fundamental differences between the way Judaism and Christianity see their interaction with general culture. How long has Judaism considered it’s basic tenets to have been debated?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Shoftim.
Click here to join!
Access the Megillas Esther archives here.
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the Russian Ukrainian crisis. Why are we so shocked by this event? How much of an anomaly is it historically? What important lessons can we learn from this conflict? How does this fit in with the general pattern of man’s behavior in this world?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MEGILLAS ESTHER.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode, we look more carefully at some of the key evidence the Beis Din had about Spinoza. What can we learn from the type of evidence about the details of the Cherem? Were the statements attributed to Spinoza ones that one would say casually?
We also start looking at the intellectual background of the times, and where Spinoza’s ideas originated from.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning MEGILLAS ESTHER.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we closely look at the details of the Cherem that the Amsterdam community put on Baruch Spinoza. What is the halachic definition of a Cherem? What part of the Cherem process does shofar blowing play? Are curses an integral part of the Cherem process? What made the Spinoza Cherem more serious? Is it possible that cups of blood were used in the Spinoza Cherem?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at humanity’s search for perfection and how this expresses itself in the world. Where does this very deep human drive come from? What are we supposed to do with this deep human drive? What key tools do we need to use to properly focus this basic drive?
We also look at chumras. What is a chumra? How does one accurately translate chumra into English? When should one integrate a chumra into one’s Avodas Hashem?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at what level of Jewish education Spinoza got to. Did Spinoza get to the level of understanding how to read and analyze Shas? Did he have any contact with Rabbi Menashe ben Israel? We also take a look at Rabbi Menashe ben Israel’s major accomplishments. What can we learn about the general cultural milieu from Rabbi Menashe ben Israel’s significant dialogues with non Jewish society?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
In this episode we look at the Jewish Educational system in Amsterdam in the times of Spinoza. The Yeshiva had a system of six grades from the age of seven until twenty one. How does this correspond to modern educational systems?
We also examine the issue of did Spinoza remember his birth mother, who died when he was six? How much of an influence should this have had on him?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
This episode is dedicated in honor of Yeshiva Torat Shraga.
In this episode we look at the deep compilations of Spinoza’s family. Spinoza’s mother died when he was six years old, and his father remarried when he was eight years old. Who was Spinoza’s step mother? What was her background? Is there any reason to believe she had significant influence on him?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY: CEDAR MEDIA STUDIOS
This episode is dedicated לעילוי נשמת חיה בת אלכסנדר On the occasion of her Yahrzeit י שבט
In this episode we look at how one should Halachically classify the different types of suicide. Is there any time that suicide is allowed? Was Adam Cherniakow, head of the Warsaw Judenradt allowed to commit suicide?
We start looking at Spinoza’s family. Where was his father born? Where was his mother born? What part did his father play in the Jewish Community of Amsterdam?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we look at the conclusion of Uriel de Costa’s life. After writing his books against Judaism and religion, De Costa eventually attempted to rejoin the Jewish Community. The community demanded that he agree to being publicly lashed. Why was such a severe punishment done by the community? What effect did this have on De Costa? How did De Costa view his life efforts?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we continue looking at the tragic story of Uriel de Costa. De Costa moved to Hamburg where he wrote two controversial books about his position on Rabbinic authority and immortality of the soul. We look at how the community responded. R' Yehuda Aryeh de Modena also responded. R Yehuda Aryeh de Modena is a very important historical figure. We take a quick look at his important historical contributions, including his sefer Aryeh Noham that investigated the authenticity of the Zohar.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we continue looking at the tragic story of Uriel De Costa. Some time after De Costa moved to Amsterdam and reverted to Judaism, he became disenchanted with the Rabbinic Judaism that was being practiced. He claimed to be shocked by this discovery. How should he look at his claims? Are there good reasons to believe that these claims are a later exaggeration?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YEHOSHUA.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode there is more response about the Yeshiva Curriculum issues.
We look at the very important issue of how to see when a society looks at an issue as reality. How does this effect us? What can we learn from this phenomenon?
We also start looking at Uriel De Costa. De Costa was of Portuguese Jewish descent and his tragic life in a way was a precursor to Spinoza.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this week’s episode, we look at one of the other major Rabbis of Amsterdam in this era, Rabbi Yitzchak Abuav de Fonseca. Rabbi Abuav had a unique background, he was born in Portugal to a prominent Rabbinical family. In the 1630’s the Jewish Community of Amsterdam was engulfed in a major controversy about how to understand who has a portion in the world to come. What was the issue? What do we learn about those times from this controversy?
There also is a follow up to last week’s episode. We look at some of the other issues and challenges that exist in society today and how they affect Avodas Hashem.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we address the recent comments of R' Moshe Weinberger about the Yeshiva curriculum and its effectiveness. Why did the Yeshivas choose this curriculum? What makes it effective? Is there a connection between Shas and Machahava and Chassidus? How does learning Shas affect a person’s core relationship with Avodas Hashem?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we look at one of the first Rabbis of Amsterdam, Rabbi Shaul Mortera. Where did they go to find a Rabbi that would fit with their community? Is there any significance to his family background? We also look at the one of prime tools the community used to keep internal order, cherem. What is a cherem? Is it still used today? Is it accurate from a Torah perspective to use this terminology?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we take a deeper look at the most important Historical accomplishment of the Mashgiach of Mir, R' Aharon Chadash. What critical role did R' Aharon Chadash play in the development of the Mir into the largest Yeshiva in the world? Are there any parallels between with this and the development of Lakewood into the largest Yeshiva in the USA?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we look at more of the details of the founding of the first synagogue in Amsterdam. We are able to learn from this story and from other basic features of the Jewish Community the specific mindset that they had. One of the customs of the Jewish Community in Amsterdam was to have three names. Why did they have this custom and what is it’s significance?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we look at the founding of the Jewish Community of Amsterdam. How was it that Amsterdam specifically came to have such a major community ? We take a careful look at the two legends about the founding of the community. Which parts of these legends are clearly documented? Which part of these legends are probably legendary but not factual?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we look at the hidden century of the Crypto Jews. The vast majority of the Crypto Jews were from the Jews who went to Portugal and were forced to convert in 1497. The Portuguese Jewish communities weren’t founded until the late 1500’s. What happened to these unfortunate Jews in this hidden century? What records do we have of them in this time? What level of commitment were they able to keep in this time?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
As is well documented, Spinoza was of Marrano, crypto Jewish background. In this episode we look at the Historical Background of the Marranos. How did this occur? We also discuss the tragic dilemma of the what to do with one’s children when in a shmad situation. What events in general Spanish History contributed to the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492? How is it that the crypto Jew issue primarily was expressed in the 1600s?
We also discuss the question of was Christopher Columbus Jewish?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning YIRMIYAHU.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
PRODUCED BY:
In this episode we look at the famed question: why study History? We also look at why most people find the study of History so challenging. We also examine the basic differences between History and Jewish History, and how this changes the reason to study History. We also look at one of the classic examples of how Torah connects with Jewish History.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning KOHELES.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at the important issue of how to evaluate evidence. When should one accept a historical claim as true? We examine the topic by looking at the celebration of the Besht’s birthday on 18th of Elul. When did people start celebrating birthdays? Is there a difference between birthdays and Yahrzeits? We also look at the issue of machlokes, the disagreements in Shas etc. How do we understand this phenomenon? Does it have any effect on Torah?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning KOHELES.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
0:30 Is there a difference in the issues of Emuna and Bitachon between Chassidus and Hisnagdus?
6:04 What is the difference between how Chassidus and Hisnagdus views optimum fulfillment of mitzvos?
16:10 How does this apply to saying Shema?
21:03 Does the machlokes between Chassidus and Hisnagdus parallel what is the prime focus of Judaism, intellect or emotions?
27:07 Is the concept of Chassidus limited to the Baal Shem Tov? Did the Baal Shem Tov invent the idea of Chassidus?
33:27 When did real Hisnagdus start? Who were the instigators?
44:06 Was the machlokes primarily of Halacha of Hashkafa?
46:12 Was there different type of opposition to the Baal Tanya than any other types of Chassidus?
48:20 What would the Besht say about contemporary Chassidus?
55:18 How much of Nefesh Ha-Chaim is Hisnagdus?
56:02 What does it mean that Noam Elimelech is for Tzadikim, Tanya for Banonim, and Likutai Maran is for Reshaim?
1:02:01 How should we understand statements that seem to accuse Chassidus or Hisnagdus of heresy? When can we integrate these ideas into our lives?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning KOHELES.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at some of the lessons we can learn from the Corona crisis of the last year and a half. We examine one of the most important Tanachic rules for understanding major events, ‘in the end of days you will be able to properly understand it’. We also examine the challenge governments have been facing in making proper rules for these times. What can we learn from this challenge about our times? What does this crisis show us about Chazal and Rabbinical commands?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at some of the practical differences between Chassidim and Misnagdim. How does affect the relationship between Torah and Tefila? What differences are there in a practical in this issue between Chassidim and Misnagdim? What attitude do we have to the occasions when one does a mitzva without proper intentions. Is this situation basically problematic or is it basically fine?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we take a deeper look at the Ari’s approach to Haalas Nitzotzim. We also examine the difference between the Ari’s application of Haalas Nitzotzim and the Besht’s application of Haalas Nitzotzim. Why did the Vilna Gaon argue with the Besht and not with the Ari? How much of the Vilna Gaon’s argument with the Besht is in the theoretical realm and how much is about practical applications?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
Episode 52 - Tzimtzum - The Vilna Gaon’s approach
In this episode we carefully look at the Vilna Gaon’s understanding of Tzimtzum. Does the Vilna Gaon in fact directly argue with those who hold Tzimtzum should not be understood literally? How does the Vilna Gaon understand the spiritual structure that gives our world the ability to exist? What exactly is he arguing with Chassidus about in this issue? We also look at R' Dessler’s comment on this controversial issue.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we take a more in-depth look at Tzimtzum. We also see what stand Chassidus takes in the machlokes between R' Emanuel Chai Ricco and R' Yosef Irgus about the issue. We exploret the connection between how Chassidus understands Tzimtzum and the issue of Hoshgocha Pratis. We also take a practical look at how different contemporary groups implement the Besht’s ideas.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we start looking at what the Gaon meant when he accused the Chassidim of infringing on, ‘Kibud Av’. We also look at the basic issues surrounding the topic of Tzimtzum. We examine the basic concepts of Tzimtzum. We look at the machlokes between R' Emanuel Chai Ricco and R' Yosef Irgun if should we understand this issue in a literal way.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode, we take a deeper look at one of the key issues that the Vilna Gaon argued with the Besht about, Haalas Nitzotzim, raising the sparks. Where in the Vilna Gaon’s letter does he refer to this concept? We also examine the source of this statement in the Ari’s writings. We also examine how the Vilna Gaon related to the Ari and the writings of the Ari’s students.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we take a closer look at the Vilna Gaon’s personal letter against Beshtian Chassidus. What exactly was the Vilna Gaon accusing the Chassidim of? How do we understand the Vilna Gaon’s accusation that the Chassidim were, ‘revealing an explanation in Torah against Halacha’? Does this have anything to do with the changes made to prayer?
We also start looking at the letter the Baal Tanya wrote as a response to the Vilna Gaon’s letter. What can we learn about the core of the conflict from the Baal Tanya’s letter?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
This week’s podcast is sponsored by Rabbi Ari Senter לעילוי נשמת his father הרב זכריה בן אורי
In this episode we look at the importance of mourning on Tisha B’Av and the very deep challenge we have relating to Tisha B’Av. How should mourning on Tisha B’Av affect the Jewish year? How much deeper are we challenged by this ideal of mourning than people were in previous times? Why are we so deeply challenged? What are the basic steps we can take to make progress in this challenge?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode, we look at the critically important letter the Vilna Gaon wrote in 1796 that explains his opposition to the Besht’s ideas. Why did the Vilna Gaon write this letter? What is the difference between this letter and the bans of excommunication that the Vilna Gaon had already signed on?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Yirmiyahu.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we take a careful look at the two controversies around the Ramchal. What specifically caused each of them to happen? How did the Ramchal view the two controversies? Did the Ramchal consider the promises he made to be legally binding in each case? We also take another look at the Ramchal’s Maggid and how to understand it.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we take a deeper look at the Ramchal’s youth and his first Rebbe R' Yitzchak Chaim Kantorini. We also look at the issue of the Tehillim of the Ramchal and its historical context. We look at the Ramchal’s guiding the Kabbalistic group, Mevakshai Hashem and his core principles of understanding the relationship between the Hidden and Revealed parts of Torah.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at the Ramchal’s experiences after he moved to Amsterdam. This is where he printed his famous works, Mesilas Yesharim, Derech Hashem, and Daas Tevunos. How was he able to print these works? Why did he change his writing style? Where did the Ramchal live in Israel? Did he ever visit Jerusalem? Where is he buried? How did the Ramchal achieve his colossal historical legacy?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at how R' Moshe Chagiz was successfully able to challenge the Ramchal and force him to stop publicly teaching and give up his early writings.
We also look at the tumult in the Rabbinic world about the authenticity of the Zohar, and specifically R' Yehuda de Modena’s sefer, ‘Ari Noham’. We look at how the Ramchal got involved and how R' Moshe Chagiz reacted to the Ramchal’s involvement.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at how the Ramchal came to Reggio and the founding of the chabura Mevakshai Hashem. We also look at the Ramchal’s writings, when were they written, and how we have them today. We also discuss the style of the Ramchal’s writings.
We look at the Ramchal’s Maggid, heavenly messenger. What is a maggid? How does it relate to Prophecy and Ruach Ha-Kodesh? We look at the massive growth of the Ramchal’s group, R Moshe Chagiz’s opposition, and the outcome of the first confrontation between the Ramchal and R' Moshe Chagiz.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at the contemporary evidence about the location of the lost Ten Tribes. How much solid evidence is there? Is it possible that they are to be found in Western India? What can we learn from early modern interest in this issue?
We start looking at the Ramchal’s life. Where was he born? Where did his family originate from? Who were his Rebbeim? Is there a direct connection between the Ramchal and the Ari zl?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at end of R' Imanuel Chai Ricco’s life and his tragic death. Why did people consider him as dying for Kiddush Hashem?
We start looking at the issue of the Ten Tribes. What happened to them after they were exiled? What does it say in Tanach about them? What does it say in Shas about them? Is there other Midrashic information about where the Ten Tribes were exiled to? How do we reconcile R Akiva’s opinion that the Ten Tribes aren’t coming back with the places in Tanach that strongly imply they are coming back? We look at the legendary story of Eldad Ha-Dani. When did this story happen? Did everyone accept the story as true? Is there a connection between Eldad Ha-Dani and the Ethiopian Jews?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we look at the challenge of internalizing the authenticity of Torah in our challenging times. Is there a difference between how we see Tanach and it’s narrative and the other words of Chazal? What can we do in order to see the Torah as being the ultimate of substantial?
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Rus.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we take a careful look at how R Emanuel Chai Ricco’s sefer, ‘Mishnas Chassidim’, gained very deep influence on the learning of Kabbala in the 1700’s. We look at the basic structure of the Kloiz of Brody and how this connects to the Mishnas Chassidim. We also look at one of the key ideas in one of R Emanuel Chai Ricco’s other sefarim about when Mashiach should come and how this impacted the Jewish World.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
In this episode we will look at the golden era of Italian Mekubalim in the 1700’s. We start by looking at the basic community structure in Italy. In terms of Historical Legacy, the relativity unknown R' Emanuel Chai Ricco is incredibly important. In this episode we look at his early life, how he came to become one of the most important Kabbalists of his times and what led him to write his seminal work, ‘Mishnas Chassidim’.
Nach Yomi: Join R' Wittenstein’s Nach Yomi on WhatsApp. We learn a perek a day five days a week, with a nine minute shiur covering the key issues.
We are currently learning Tehillim.
Click here to join!
For tours, speaking engagements, or sponsorships contact us at jewishhistoryuncensored@gmail.com
(CedarMediaStudios Podcasting 2021)
This podcast could use a review! Have anything to say about it? Share your thoughts using the button below.
Submit Review
