Jewish History Nerds

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Jewish History Nerds is BACK on January 22nd!

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:30:00 -0000

Jewish History Nerds is back for Season 6! Hosts Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner return with a new slate of smart, engaging stories from Jewish history—blending deep research with curiosity, humor, and lively conversation. Each week, they take turns exploring a fascinating figure or moment, asking big questions, learning together, and inviting listeners into the journey. This season spans famous and forgotten Jews across eras and regions, with surprising stories you’ve likely never heard before. New episodes drop weekly, and Jewish History Nerds is now on YouTube.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out our videos on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Revisiting Hebrew Hammer: The True Story of Hannukah

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 10:30:00 -0000

Help us take Unpacked podcasts further by supporting our crowdfunding campaign: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://unpacked.bio/podgift2025⁠⁠

Season 5 is coming soon. In the meantime, to celebrate Hanukkah, we’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes from our very first season.

Ah, Chanukah. That festive time of year where we light candles, indulge in fried foods, and celebrate… a brutal civil war? Join Yael and Schwab as they complicate the story we all thought we knew. What did the Maccabees really fight for? How should we feel about their legacy? And who is Helen?

For more on Hanukkah, Judah Maccabee, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19vHg-inRureVw3AlW2UA_uyUYMH12HH5qjvkXrMf_h4/edit?usp=sharing

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Listener Survey is Here

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 09:30:00 -0000

This survey has expired. Thanks for listening and see you next season.

The JNF Blue Box: A Symbol of Hope, Controversy, and Nation-Building

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 09:30:00 -0000

In this season finale, Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab explore the powerful and surprising story of the Jewish National Fund's iconic blue tzedakah box—also known as the JNF "Blue Box." What began as a nostalgic household object for many Jewish families turns out to be one of the most influential and controversial symbols in modern Zionist history. Discover how this simple tin box, known as a "pushka" in Yiddish, became a global fundraising tool for land purchases in pre-state Israel, helped popularize the holiday of Tu Bishvat, and instilled Zionist values across generations of diaspora Jews—dime by dime.

Click here to see a picture of Yael's great grandmother's blue box.

Here ⁠is a link to the Blue Box, New Edition, on the JNF's website.

Click here to read about the Jewish National Fund in the Encyclopedia Judaica.

Click here to read excerpts from Eric Engel Tuten's history of the JNF.

Here are links to protests in Canada and Colorado.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

The Judensau: How Pig Imagery Fueled Centuries of Antisemitism

Thu, 29 May 2025 09:30:00 -0000

This week, Schwab and Yael dive into one of the most disturbing and enduring symbols of antisemitism in European history: the Judensau, or “Jew Pig.” From its origins in 13th-century German churches to its persistent presence in modern cathedrals like those in Cologne and Wittenberg, this grotesque motif—depicting Jews in degrading, obscene interactions with pigs—embodied and perpetuated centuries of Christian antisemitic propaganda.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

Click here for Isaiah Shachar's book, The Judensau.

Click here for Daniel Leeson's work on The Judensau.

Click here to see images of the Judensau on the church in Wittenberg.

Click here for additional images of the Judensau.

Click here to see images of the Judensau in Cologne.

Click here for a news article about the court order to keep the Judensau in Wittenberg.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠.

-------------------

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

When Jews Thrived in India: Castes, Coexeistence and the Cochin Copper Plates

Thu, 22 May 2025 09:30:00 -0000

This week, Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner explore the rich history of some of India’s Jewish communities, including the caste-influenced divisions among the so-called "Black Jews, White Jews, and Brown Jews" of Cochin. Using the Cochin Copper Plates as an entry point, Yael and Schwab explore how Indian Jewish life flourished—largely free of antisemitism—until almost the entire population made Aliyah after 1948. Yael explains that the Cochin (Cranganore) Copper Plates, dating possibly as far back as 1000 CE and inscribed in Tamil, bestowed unique privileges to the Jewish community on India’s Malabar Coast Jews and a Jewish leader named Joseph Rabban. Whether or not you're a "history nerd," you will appreciate this unique story, which reframes what we think of as "Jewish history."

Click here or a summary and sources referenced in the episode.

Click here to see pictures of the Cochin Copper Plates.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠⁠.

-------------------

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Wondering Jews

Judea Capta: The Romans Coins that Celebrated the Fall of Judea

Thu, 15 May 2025 09:30:00 -0000

What can a coin tell us about history, power, and identity? This week, hosts Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner explore the Roman Judea Capta coins—propaganda minted to celebrate Rome’s brutal suppression of the Jewish revolt and the destruction of the Second Temple. Why would a global empire spotlight a small province like Judea on its currency? Schwab unpacks the fascinating world of numismatics, showing how coins served as ancient mass media and a tool for emperors like Vespasian to craft political narratives. This episode dives deep into coins as artifacts, propaganda tools, and symbols of survival and resistance.

Click here for a summary and sources referenced in the episode.

Click here for images of the Judea Capta Coins.

Click here to see images of the Israel Liberata Coin.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠⁠youtube⁠⁠.

-------------------

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠⁠

⁠⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠⁠

⁠⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠⁠

⁠⁠Wondering Jews

The Story of the Menorah: From Temple to State Seal

Thu, 08 May 2025 09:30:00 -0000

This week, Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab trace the rich story of the menorah, one of Judaism’s oldest and most powerful symbols. The menorah has become an all encompassing symbol of Judaism in part because of the commercialization of the Christmas and Hanukkah season in the United States. But it has a complex history that started long before big box stores. From its origin in the Book of Exodus to its central role in the Holy Temple, and from the Roman plunder depicted on the Arch of Titus to its prominent place on the State of Israel’s national seal, the menorah has transcended time and geography to become a potent emblem of Jewish resilience, ritual, and identity.

Click here for a summary and sources referenced in the episode.

Click here to read The Menorah by Theodor Herzl.

Click here for images of the menorah.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠youtube⁠.

-------------------

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠

⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠

⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠

⁠Wondering Jews

Jerusalem’s Hidden Scrolls: The Earliest Evidence of the Hebrew Bible

Thu, 01 May 2025 09:30:00 -0000

Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab explore one of the most astonishing archaeological discoveries in Jewish history: two tiny silver scrolls unearthed in Ketef Hinnom, just outside Jerusalem's Old City. Dated to the First Temple period—centuries older than the Dead Sea Scrolls—these amulets contain the earliest known inscription of a Biblical verse: the Birkat Kohanim, or priestly blessing. Yael shares how a 13-year-old boy accidentally uncovered a hidden burial chamber packed with ancient treasure, including the scrolls, and how scholars painstakingly unrolled and deciphered them using cutting-edge techniques.

Click here to see images of the Ketef Hinnom amulets and archeological site.

Click here for facts and sources referenced in the episode.

Click here for a vocabulary list from the episode.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on ⁠youtube⁠.

-------------------

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

⁠Soulful Jewish Living⁠

⁠Stars of David with Elon Gold ⁠

⁠Unpacking Israeli History⁠

⁠Wondering Jews

Unearthing Dura Europos: The Synagogue Lost in Time

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 09:30:00 -0000

Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner explore the story of the Dura Europos Synagogue—preserved beneath desert sand in what is modern day Syria, for 1,700 years. In this colorful episode, Schwab and Yael take listeners on a vivid tour through the 3rd century BCE synagogue, its extraordinary murals of biblical scenes, its mysterious inscriptions, and clues about ancient Jewish life, art, and community. From Pharaoh’s daughter painted in the nude to Ezra depicted with a Torah scroll, this synagogue defies modern expectations with its wall-to-wall biblical imagery, multilingual graffiti, and rich cultural fusion of Roman, Persian, and Jewish influences.

Click the following links to see pictures of the Dura Europos Synagogue.

Pictures of the Dura Europos Synagogue

Additional pictures of the Dura Europos Synagogue

Click here for the sources and summary facts heard in the episode.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube.

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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Buried Secrets: Jewish Magic, Demons, and the Babylonian Incantation Bowls

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 09:30:00 -0000

We'd like to hear from you. Please fill out this survey to tell us your thoughts and feedback about Jewish History Nerds. Here's the link: ⁠⁠https://unpacked.media/nerdsurvey⁠⁠

Yael and Schwab dig into one of the most fascinating artifacts of Jewish antiquity: the Babylonian incantation bowls. These 5th–6th century earthenware bowls, found primarily in modern-day Iraq, were used by Jews—and their neighbors—as magical amulets to ward off demons, secure love, boost fertility, and protect homes. The conversation explores how these artifacts reflect the everyday concerns of Jews in late antiquity, how they blur the line between halacha and magic, and what they reveal about cultural exchange across ancient religions. Whether you're into Jewish magic, rabbinic history, or just want to know how to trap a demon in your cereal bowl, this episode has you covered.

Click here to see a picture of a Babylonian Incantation Bowl.

Click here for additional pictures of the bowls and their inscriptions.

Click here for a word list with some of the vocabulary in the episode.

Click here for a summary and sources about the Babylonian Incantation Bowls.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube.

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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

The First Mention of Israel: A Passover Special on the Merneptah Stele

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 09:30:00 -0000

As Passover approaches, Yael and Schwab dive into one of the most fascinating—and oldest—archaeological artifacts ever discovered: the Merneptah Stele. We travel back to 1209 BCE to explore this 3,200-year-old slab of Egyptian granite, which contains the first historical mention of Israel. The episode explores what the Merneptah Stele tells us about ancient Israel, Pharaohs, and the real-world backdrop of the Exodus narrative. Listen to Yael and Schwab's informative and delightful conversation and delve into the sources to enrich your Seder with something that’s older than the Haggadah itself.

Click here to see an image of the Merneptah Stele.

Click here for a recap and to read some of the sources used in the episode

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube.

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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

The Star of David: A Symbol That Means Everything—and Nothing

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:34:00 -0000

What does the Star of David really mean—and how did it become the symbol of Judaism and Jewish identity? In the Season 4 premiere of Jewish History Nerds, hosts Yael Steiner and Jonathan Schwab explore the history of the Star of David, also known as the Magen David or hexagram. From decorative motif to mystical symbol, from Jewish pride to Nazi persecution, this iconic six-pointed star carries a complex, and at times contradictory, legacy and story.

Click here for a picture of the badge that Nazis forced Jews to wear.

Click here for a picture of the Israeli flag.

Click here for a recap of the information discussed in the episode.

Click here to watch Unpacked's YouTube video "The Surprising History of the Star of David."

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a brand of OpenDor Media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube.

-------------------

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Jewish History Nerds

Unpacking Israeli History

Season 4, Coming Next Week

Thu, 27 Mar 2025 09:30:00 -0000

Jewish History Nerds is back! Hosts Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner are here with a preview of season 4. Get ready to nerd out in a season devoted to the fascinating stories behind objects and symbols from Jewish history. Brush up on old episodes and subscribe to the show so you'll never miss an episode.

Be in touch. We want to hear from you. Write to us at nerds@unpacked.media.

Follow @unpackedmedia on Instagram and check out Unpacked on youtube.

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This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Soulful Jewish Living

Stars of David with Elon Gold

Wondering Jews

The Secret Jewish Kingdom of...Yemen?

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 10:30:00 -0000

Ever wonder about the Jewish kings beyond David and Solomon? Join Yael and Schwab as they uncover the intriguing story of a lesser-known monarch from 5th century Yemen. Delve into the complex history of Yosef Dhu Nuwas, a Jewish convert who ascended to the throne of the ancient kingdom of Himyar.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Yosef Dhu Nuwas and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yodfm5BZIs8KBIl24I0bqrASiiPyuTImUOcnQ-t3XGI/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Bertha Pappenheim: Life Beyond a Diagnosis

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Have you ever felt the need to reinvent yourself? To break free from the constraints of expectations and redefine your own path? Join Yael and Schwab as they explore the legacy of Bertha Pappenheim, aka Sigmund Freud's Anna O, a remarkable Jewish woman who defied societal norms and transcended the confines of her diagnosis. From her pioneering advocacy for women's rights to her profound influence on psychoanalysis, delve into the untold story of a woman who broke free from the limitations imposed by her time.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Bertha Pappenheim and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KiejqyGVVUGZfQqmZ_QSHWKDu_0F7BafnUKsVAwDAmA/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Rav Saadia Gaon: In Our Gaonic Era

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0000

You may have heard of some of the greats of rabbinic history. But even if you've heard of Rav Sa'adia Gaon, you probably don't know his wild story. Join Yael and Schwab as they dive into the Gaonic era and find out what's so special about this transitional figure.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Rav Saadia Gaon, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1y_lBzxA2joDLuUpz395QtM1KI9a5vYvFugJubdYtb14/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

The Diary of Glikl: Discovering the Exceptional within the Everyday

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Forget philosophers and historians, welcome to the world of Glikl, an ordinary yet extraordinary Jewish woman from 18th-century Germany. Join Yael and Schwab to explore the diary of Glikl, as she candidly shares her personal struggles and triumphs, offering a profound glimpse into the human experience, with an authenticity and vulnerability that still resonates today.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Revisionist Zionism: Jabotinsky's Journey From Vladimir to Ze'ev

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Lately it seems all anyone can talk about is... Zionism. But what even is Zionism? Jump into the world of Revisionist Zionist leader, Vladimir Jabotinsky, exploring his unique, and somewhat paradoxical, vision of zionism and a Jewish homeland: a delicate balance of strength and diplomacy. Join Yael and Schwab as they explore Jabotinsky's divergence from 'mainstream' Zionism, his advocacy for territorial maximalism, and his enduring impact on Israeli politics, providing new insight into his legacy and its effects on Zionism as we know it today.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Vladimir Jabotinsky, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-eaNmU8d5HE-QyDzyQI888dJ1Dha9HY0p51Fz2mHFe8/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Mystical Hasidism: Hillel Ba'al Shem's Enchanted Journey

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Join Yael and Schwab as they delve into the world of 18th-century Jewish mysticism through the life of Hillel Ba'al Shem and his manuscript "Sefer HaCheshek." Exploring failed miracles and comedic exorcisms with humor and humility, they contrast Hillel's legacy with the revered Ba'al Shem Tov, uncovering profound philosophical insights and historical context, from Kabbalah to controversies surrounding figures like Shabbetai Tzvi, sparking captivating conversations about faith, belief, and the human condition.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Hillel Ba'al Shem, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1jAk-0caPNldFuatKkAvwLjilQzLrBFk41Q-n2HBwcSI/edit?usp=sharing

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Jewish History Nerds

Chronicles of A Talmud Girl Boss

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Embark on a captivating journey through the extraordinary life of Devorah Romm, a pioneering businesswoman in 19th-century Lithuania, who reshaped the literary landscape of Eastern European Jewish communities. Whether breaking copyright rules, crafting the opulent Vilna Shas, implementing a groundbreaking business strategy, or obtaining rare manuscripts from the Vatican, Devorah was unafraid of taking charge and defying expectations. Join Yael and Schwab as they uncover the legacy of Devorah Romm, a trailblazer who not only rose to each challenge presented, but flourished in ways unimaginable for woman at the time, leaving an everlasting mark on the Jewish world.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Devorah Romm, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rYN4Yq7nBzV58YD68FRsfLkIKEjU_qp0RI9DF6wTusg/edit#heading=h.oefh2lmsj39c

This podcast was brought to you by Unpacked, a division of OpenDor Media.

For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:

Jewish History Nerds

The First Female Rabbi?: Maiden of Ludmir

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Welcome to Ludmir, Ukraine. The year is 1806, and the revolutionary Hannah Rachel Vermermacher, also known as the Maiden of Ludmir, is shaking up the traditional Jewish world. Born into affluence, Hannah Rachel's life took a transformative turn, leading her to embrace the role of a Hasidic rabbi, or rebbe. Despite facing objections and rumors, she chose an independent path, attracting followers seeking her guidance, and breaking a few societal norms along the way. Eventually, Hannah Rachel ventured to Jerusalem, expanding her influence as her teachings spread across the broader Jewish world. Join Yael and Schwab as they discover the enduring impact of the Maiden of Ludmir's unique story, uncovering a harmonious blend of mysticism and independence.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Maiden of Ludmir, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xPOaXDHbiTh_hHoJHaV32jlg9CVsWiGYKOFMntzmYo4/edit#heading=h.ox6pluiqfvx2

Innovation or Assimilation? The Moses Mendelssohn Story

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Moses Mendelssohn faced the intricate challenges of being a Jew in an enlightened European setting. Despite impactful contributions, his legacy includes challenges faced by his family and questions about the long-term impact of his ideas on Jewish identity. Join Schwab and Yael as they explore the complex story of Moses Mendelssohn, and delve into the intricacies of Jewish identity.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Moses Mendelssohn, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x3_mO1dbJc4DQf4sg6JZtyqfWkiU3nHNj8YNSszDhFc/edit#heading=h.j4qqg1vxy5x0

Graetz's Balancing Act: Modernity and Judaism

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0000

Meet Heinrich Graetz, the trailblazing historian who transformed Jewish history. Born into 19th-century Germany, Graetz challenged norms and bridged the gap between Orthodox and academic worlds. Join us as we unravel Graetz's legacy and explore the evolving landscape of Jewish identity through his groundbreaking work. In this episode, hosts Schwab and Yael explore the life and pioneering work of 19th-century German Jewish historian Heinrich Graetz. The episode reflects on tensions surrounding Graetz's work, highlighting the ongoing relevance of his social scientific approach.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Heinrich Graetz, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EfqB96omNaNU8MpWpcpd1gOmxDz4P-1yU3kHEXOLriE/edit?usp=sharing

Buy the ebook of History of the Jews (for only $2!) here.

Season 3, Coming Next Week

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 11:30:00 -0000

We’re back for Season 3. We’ll still be unpacking awesome stories, dialing up the nerdiness, and leaning in to Jewish history. Get ready, and brush up on past episodes.

Are you ready?

Sarah Schenirer: A Revolutionary Traditionalist

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

100 years ago, in Krakow, Poland, Sarah Schenirer changed female Jewish education forever. Explore the extraordinary life of Sarah Schenirer, the pioneering force who fearlessly merged tradition and women's rights in Orthodox Judaism. Uncover her creation of the groundbreaking Beis Yaakov school system, challenging societal norms while upholding Orthodox values. Join us as we delve into the complex legacy of this visionary figure, a true bridge between tradition and social innovation.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Sarah Schenirer, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ec_1aciMru1pGvQDIXMixisDjaFFpRo9FEgNz9xKLN4/edit?usp=sharing

The Abduction of Edgardo Mortara

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Join Yael and Schwab as we unravel the gripping story of a young Jewish boy forcibly taken from his family by the Catholic Church, sparking international outcry and shaping the course of religious tensions. Discover the surprising twists and turns that led Edgardo Mortara to embrace his captors' faith, becoming a devoted Catholic priest with a mission to convert his own people.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Edgardo Mortara, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xZAGR52wd0v7Ofmb1aAmi3vDb1h7TUDYsr0QCGGDGDY/edit

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Golden Age of Spanish Jewry: A Tapestry of Coexistence

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Schwab and Yael unravel the vibrant tapestry of the Golden Age of Spanish Jewry, an era of remarkable cultural exchange and collaboration between Muslims, Jews, and Christians. Explore the rich history, intellectual achievements, and creative contributions of the Jewish community during this extraordinary period of coexistence in the Iberian Peninsula. Discover the intricate interplay of cultures that shaped this golden era and its lasting impact on the development of art, science, and philosophy.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Spanish Golden Age, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BWe-Vzczfy_EL9rZuiRwIIc1zYN6uxjZwYtHxe8_ZQs/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Hannah Szenes: Defiance Amidst Darkness

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In this gripping episode, join Schwab and Yael as they delve into the extraordinary life of Hannah Szenes, a talented Hungarian poet who defied the Holocaust. From her escape to pre-state Israel to her daring mission behind enemy lines, discover the incredible bravery of a woman who refused to yield to the Nazis. Uncover the untold story of Hannah Szenes and explore the enduring legacy of her unyielding spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Hannah Szenes, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Ih5TaGOYXoZQmuqdaTLX6jnhQ04vrH32JdeMZlKtRiE/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Wuhsha the Broker: Excavations from the Cairo Geniza

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Discovered in the Cairo Geniza, the story of the remarkable exploits of this 11th century trader push the boundaries of what we may have thought was typical of Jewish women in medieval Egypt. But before we even get there, we have to understand what the Cairo Geniza is, and why it helps us to understand Jewish history.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Wuhsha the Broker and the Cairo Geniza, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mdQlJlIhm34YhI39ZdYNEo-68utXr9aZmqRtyPrOARQ/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

"Resurrecting" Judaism?: Donato Manduzio's Journey

Thu, 25 May 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Donato Manduzio was just a simple man in an Italian village - until he read the Bible, and began his quest to bring back what he thought was a dead, ancient faith. Not only did Donato embrace Judaism, he convinced several dozen of his fellow villagers in San Nicandro to join him in this spiritual journey. Schwab and Yael explore this wild story and ask, how the heck do we decide not only who is a Jew, but what are the contours of, well, Judaism?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Donato Manduzio, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GhIKjDiK3-Z-Dgu-nDNXAvKRZ6NYGwtEB3hTkc4Gl2o/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Johannes Eisenmenger: Deception, Faith, and Antisemitism

Thu, 18 May 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Learn about the bonkers life of Johannes Eisenmenger, a man who spent 19 years under false pretenses within the Jewish community. Over those 19 years, he meticulously studied the Talmud, and eventually wrote a wild 2000-page text about the evils of the Talmud. In this episode, Yael and Schwab explore the personal motives, societal implications, and long-lasting effects of his actions. Join us as we dissect this tale of deception and bigotry in the light of history, faith, and human behavior.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Johannes Eisenmenger, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KeADzNKcvU0A5UjvwAwnA0SONmunnrGxFCjaD8Kpr3o/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Sarra Coppia Sullam: A 17th Century Queen Esther?

Thu, 11 May 2023 10:00:00 -0000

You might not be quite as big of a fan of epistolary romances as Yael, but you'll still love the story of Sarra Coppia Sullam. Sullam, a Jewish Venetian woman of 17th century, was most well-known for her literary salons, the public accusations of heresy against her, and most salaciously, her pen pal love affair with the Genoese monk named Ansaldo Cebà. Come for the story, stay for the drama, as Schwab and Yael unpack her incredible life.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Sarra Coppia Sullman, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yj8Q9fD3nROSdB33HpO1GEo-FPd_36LpiwYDJEKEd7I/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Emma Goldman: Anarchism, Feminism...and Judaism?

Thu, 04 May 2023 10:00:00 -0000

This week, Schwab and Yael dive into the life and legacy of Emma Goldman, the influential Jewish anarchist activist who made waves in early 20th-century America. Learn about her contributions to the development of feminism and her impact on the American left. Join us as we explore the life of this revolutionary figure who inspired and challenged the status quo. But also, Schwab and Yael ask, what impact does Red Emma's Judaism have on her?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Emma Goldman, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Yj8Q9fD3nROSdB33HpO1GEo-FPd_36LpiwYDJEKEd7I/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Herod the Great: Madness & Majesty

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Delve into the enigmatic life of King Herod the Great, the infamous Judean ruler whose legacy intertwines madness and monumental achievements. Explore his transformative public works projects and unravel the dark side of his rule. Join Schwab and Yael as they examine the complex reign of a king who changed the face of ancient Judea forever.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Herod, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hWA1yiRwLHzBisRWlcKHEbT7ZTmGC2A7NL6MswyNJvk/edit?usp=sharing

Tell us what you think about the podcast here: https://jewishunpacked.com/nerdsurvey

Season 2 Coming!

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0000

We’re back!

By popular demand, Jewish History Nerds is back for another season. Wait - what? Jewish History NERDS? That's right. This new name reflects exactly who we - and all of you - are - proud Jewish History nerds. But nothing is changing. We’ll still be unpacking awesome stories, but as our true selves: Jewish History Nerds.

Are you ready?

Yalla, let’s do this!

Introducing: Unpacking Israeli History, Season 4!

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 13:47:16 -0000

Jewish History Unpacked introduces another podcast from Unpacked: Unpacking Israeli History. Season 4 just launched, and we're running the first episode here, entitled Ma'alot: 30 Seconds That Devastated A Nation.

It was supposed to be a fun field trip. A little celebration in honor of Israel’s 26th birthday. Over a hundred religious high school students, exploring northern Israel and sleeping under the stars. But the three Palestinian terrorists who sneaked in from Lebanon had other plans. This is the story of the Ma’alot massacre. It’s a story of horror and blood. But it’s also a story of hope and resistance. A reminder that every hour of our lives matters.

Babatha: The Jewish Mom of Ancient Times

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0000

We've talked this season about some biggggg characters. Josephus, Napoleon, Shabbetai Zvi. And this week, meet...Babatha. A wholly unremarkable woman, except for the world she opened up for us through the documents found in her abandoned handbag...2,000 years ago. This week, Schwab and Yael explore gender and rights, Roman bureaucracy and the many legal systems in 2nd century Judea, and the value of a good handbag.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Babatha, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DRc7Oerrjm5x8ehqsRgvklmEpKgc_sdZlPXCQQUVW8Y/edit?usp=sharing

Eternal Outsider: The Uriel D'Acosta Story

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Take survey here: https://jewishunpacked.com/jhusurvey

Every community has its weirdos. And in 17th century Amsterdam, the Jewish community’s resident weirdo was Uriel D’Acosta: converso, refugee, passionate Jew, and… dangerous heretic?

Join Yael and Schwab as they explore D’Acosta’s controversial legacy — from his influence on Spinoza to his ostracism at the hands of the Dutch Jewish community. And decide for yourself: what lessons does the story of Uriel D’Acosta hold for us today?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Uriel D'Acosta, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1b8nfO04BDAFCm6eEHenktP_Na4PAwltXs8fqyOdtqSE/edit?usp=sharing

Saul/Paul of Tarsus: Nice Jewish Boy?

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0000

How did a nice Jewish boy wind up a Christian apostle? Meet Saul/Paul of Tarsus, the man responsible for, well, Christianity.

Like Jesus, Saul was a Jew. But unlike Jesus, Saul preached a completely modified version of Judaism. A version that eventually transformed into the Christianity we know today.

Yael and Schwab ask, why are we talking about Christianity on a Jewish history podcast? When did Christianity become a distinct religion from Judaism? And why should Jews care about early Christian history?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Saul/Paul and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1e-kVcuC8LCk1shuVXoetZevMwTCq5rggcKlzUvrVGcw/edit?usp=sharing

Holy Fire: Voices of the Warsaw Ghetto

Thu, 29 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0000

In December of 1950, a construction worker happened upon a cache of old milk tins buried in the Warsaw Ghetto, the contents of which upended our understanding of the Holocaust.

The tins held the second of three caches of the Oneg Shabbos archives: a collection by ordinary people turned archivists who risked their lives to preserve the darkest moment of Jewish history. Among the photographs and diary entries, concert tickets and poems, lay the collected sermons of Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira, also known as the Piaseczno Rebbe. In this episode, Yael and Schwab ask, what can we learn from Rabbi Shapira’s works? And what debt do we owe to the brave Oneg Shabbos archivists?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Aish Kodesh and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UPT1ADfGLblgPOaViGeyquYRE6l8V0Rvutxlk3CTgE8/edit?usp=sharing

Hebrew Hammer: The True Story of Hanukkah

Thu, 22 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Ah, Chanukah. That festive time of year where we light candles, indulge in fried foods, and celebrate… a brutal civil war? Join Yael and Schwab as they complicate the story we all thought we knew. What did the Maccabees really fight for? How should we feel about their legacy? And who is Helen?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Hanukkah, Judah Maccabee, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19vHg-inRureVw3AlW2UA_uyUYMH12HH5qjvkXrMf_h4/edit?usp=sharing

Of Ports, Popes, and Pocketbooks

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0000

No one expects the Spanish Inquisition… to have given rise to two of the most powerful Jewish women in history.

You may not have heard of Dona Gracia Mendes or Benvenida Abrabanel. You may not have learned about the vastly different ways they attempted to use their power in order to stop the persecution of Jews in the papal states. And you may not have considered the way that Gracia and Benvenida’s rivalry still echoes today.

Yael and Schwab weren’t, before this episode. But now, they’re here to unpack all of this and more. So get ready — just like the Inquisition, it’s going to be quite a show.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on these women, the Ancona affair, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17VKgT2Y22Toxzc7ju6PM8NpUPFnKQixHtrEKa0XUHq0/edit?usp=sharing

Khazaria...A Jewish Empire In Europe?

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 13:09:00 -0000

Jews don’t seek converts. There are no Jewish missionaries, no street preachers, no televangelists.And yet, Jewish legend tells of an 8th century pagan king who converted his entire empire to Judaism.

Schwab and Yael ask, why? Why would anyone choose to become Jewish in 8th century Europe -- historically, not the friendliest place for Jews? Is this story fact, fiction, or something in between? If it’s true, where did all those Jews end up? And why are antisemites so obsessed with this obscure Jewish legend? The answers might surprise you.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Khazaria and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MjD36b1gMWaB2OQO7Eh-c76Dhqm2wyUKdVyzGvfzNwY/edit?usp=sharing

Shabbetai Tzvi: A (Bonkers) False Messiah Story

Thu, 01 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0000

Take survey here: https://jewishunpacked.com/jhusurvey

You've probably never met a character as colorful as Shabbetai Tzvi. The 16th century Jewish mystic and rabbi led thousands of Jews to leave their homes and possessions to follow him as their Messiah. With the encouragement of his hypeman, Nathan of Gaze, Shabbetai Tzvi was revered and loved, picking up followers left and right...until the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire threatens him with imprisonment unless he converts to Islam, which he does. This week, Yael and Schwab tell us the story of Shabbetai Tzvi and ask, what is the deeper meaning of this crazy story and character?

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Shabbetai Tzvi and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pNiZ8ZuIrIRJNzHh3CQy81AEA8CE429j4XNCdm9Yq6M/edit?usp=sharing

Does 'Liberte, Fraternite, Egalite' Include Jews?

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0000

When we think about the French Revolution, our mind jumps to Marie Antoinette, Les Miserable, “America’s favorite fighting Frenchman.” We don’t generally think “hey, are Jews even people?” But that was the question on Napoleon’s mind as he built the French Empire. In this week’s episode, Yael and Schwab break down all the factors in Napoleon’s decision-making process as he tried to figure out whether Jews could be French citizens. It’s a story about liberte, egalite, fraternite. About Napoleon’s revival of an ancient Jewish court for the first time in 1,300 years. And about what it means to be a Jew in a wider society.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Napoleon and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vuujRrD1gBYEmIJny-o2oief34hGpYW9EeMFYqlF2tc/edit?usp=sharing

Josephus: The Man Who "Invented" Jewish History

Thu, 17 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0000