Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Song_of_Songs

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.34

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.34.13?lang=bi

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.3?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.25.27

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.16.19

From Proverbs to Shakespeare and Genesis to Socrates, read the source in the original right here: https://www.sefaria.org/Proverbs.27.7

The Rabbi's Husband is produced by The Joshua Network.

From changing her religious ways at the age of 38, to parenthood, marriage, and business - it’s an episode you won’t want to miss! 

Check out this amazing source in the original right here https://www.sefaria.org/Proverbs.22.6.

Follow along in Sefaria https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.7.89.

See the link to her verse here in Sefaria (https://www.sefaria.org/Pirkei_Avot.4.15). 

The Rabbi’s Husband is a part of The Joshua Network.

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.38

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.10.2-7

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.9.9-21

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.18.1-10

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Micah.6.8 and https://www.sefaria.org/Proverbs.3.5-6 

Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.20.9-10

Jason begins by sharing the passage, the notion of God’s marriage to the Jewish people illustrated within it, and the power of the Torah to sustain the Jewish people during God’s perceived absence. He and Mark then set off on a fascinating discussion of a number of related concepts including the rebirth of Hebrew and the Jewish State, the purpose of rituals, the Jewish commitment to Israel, and the nature of Zionism. The function and nature of prayer, the contrast between faith and belief, and the reason this passage holds such significance for Jason are also explored. As the episode draws to a close, Jason shares the lessons regarding humankind which he has learned, which leads to a discussion regarding the function of intellectual endeavor. In this remarkably dynamic conversation, the sheer amount of enthusiasm, knowledge, and insight of both host and guest entertains and informs as they clearly demonstrate yet again that the ‘wisdom in our tradition is boundless’ and the lessons eternal.

Episode Highlights:

· Jason’s telling of the parable · God’s marriage with the Jewish people · God’s return to the Jewish people in 1948 · The rebirth of Hebrew and the Jewish State · The purpose of rituals · The Jewish commitment to Israel · A baseball analogy for sacrifice · The nature of Zionism · The nature and function of prayer · The reason this text is so important to Jason · Faith and belief · The lessons about humankind that Jason has learned · The function of the intellectual endeavor

Quotes:

“I can’t believe you waited for me.”

“Were it not for those letters that I kept, I would have left you a long time ago.”

“God doesn’t promise us an easy time.”

“God was absent.”

“The portable homeland of the Jews.”

“This text is, in a profound sense, atheistic.”

“In 1911, the conclusion that Hebrew would not be revived was correct.”

“The only way that she can keep him present in her life is by preserving the absence that he left…a hopeless romantic.”

“Sacrifice is a game.”

“There is absolutely no consensus for Zionism among Jews in the early 20th century.”

“Religious institutions only take on their meaning in the context of the total absence of God’s presence.”

“Unless you have that kind of doubt, you can’t have that kind of religious life that’s described in this text.”

“The human soul is like a great wild animal.”

“Your hard work as a mother is finally starting to pay off.”

“Can I distill this and translate it in a way that touches someone’s heart?”

“The Torah’s our great guidebook.”

Pesikta de-Rav Kahana (Mandelbaum) 19: https://www.sefaria.org/Pesikta_D'Rav_Kahanna.19?lang=bi

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The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com Rabbi Rubenstein’s Lecture on Miracles

Genesis 44 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.44.1-34?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Quotes: “Secretly, it was used for prayer.” “This is what you stand for.” “They prayed for the freedom of their children and the next generation.” “They didn’t want him to have a slave last name.” “William, get rid of your white baggage. You’ve been carrying it for way too long.” “What color is your baggage?” “We need each other right now more than ever before.” “I’ve been thinking about God being the collector.” “God, please don’t let the Jheri curl come back.” “Come near to me.” “He used the memories to be the building block for prayer, for intercession and…to remind God of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” “What storyline do you want to be a part of, the healing or the hurting, the blessing or the curse?” “I need to know more about this amazing Jewish faith.” “We have these artifacts that show our shared history.” “The word ‘coincidence’ is not in the Hebrew language.” “We’re just a small snapshot, a microcosm, of what God is doing to heal a lot of the division that is going on right now.” “The providential hand of God is moving behind the scenes.” “God loves us more than we can fathom.” “No one is a mistake.”  

Joshua 4:20-24 - https://www.sefaria.org/Joshua.4.20-24?lang=bi 

1 Kings 18:31-32 - https://www.sefaria.org/I_Kings.18.31-32?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  

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Pastor Will Ford's Story in Words and Pictures

Ezekiel 11:17 - https://www.sefaria.org/Ezekiel.11.17?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husand (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

He begins by sharing details of his TED Talk regarding fear before offering his summary of his selected passage and how it demonstrates God’s love of diversity and our partnership in living with Him. He and Mark also examine our shared call to create and liberate, and delve deeply into God’s use of the plural ‘us’ within this passage. Daron also explains his quarterly life reviews, his parenting traditions and wisdom, and finishes up by reviewing the lessons he has learned about humankind and the need for us all to act upon the problems so very prevalent in the world. You will undoubtedly sense the sheer amount of enthusiasm and mutual respect evident in this conversation as these two extremely well versed seekers of biblical truth uncover the lessons of this passage that resonate so powerfully in our lives today.

Episode Highlights:

· Daron’s TED Talk · His summary of the passage and its significance to him · God’s love of diversity · Our call to create and liberate · God using the plural ‘us’ in this passage · Living in partnership with God · Daron’s quarterly reviews of his life · His family’s ‘utility hours’ and ‘donut councils’ · Daron’s parenting wisdom · Lessons about humankind that Daron has learned · The need to take action on the world’s problems

Quotes:

“One of the things that I’ve dedicated my life to is trying to alleviate the shackles associated with fear.”

“You should view life as a Chinese buffet.”

“They want to get it right, because they think there is one thing they should be doing in life, and I think as much as we can, we have to dispel that myth.”

“The creation of man was a collaboration. This was a mixed tape.”

“It’s man that has had the problem with diversity. God’s been good with it from the beginning.”

“This very intentional crafting by the Maker of not just a human life, but also of a future and a destiny that’s enclosed within that creation.”

“There’s this co-presence right from inception.”

“This is creation by committee.”

“We’re in partnership in terms of my life.”

“The less I prescribe, the happier they are.”

“We’re constantly trying to integrate teachings from other religions into our own spirituality.”

“What is more important than parenting?”

“We heal faster than we think we will.”

“You are who the tape says you are.”

“What better year to remind us that the world’s problems deserve and require our attention than 2020?”

Genesis 1:26 And God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. They shall rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the cattle, the whole earth, and all the creeping things that creep on earth.” https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.1.26?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

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Genesis 50:15-19 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.50.15-19?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  

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Exodus 32 - https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.32.1-35?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Elana begins by reviewing her doctoral dissertation on legal loopholes in rabbinic law, exploring examples of both the letter and spirit of the law, and then summarizing today’s passage and its significance for her. She and Mark discuss the differing models of leadership demonstrated within the passage and how these models are evident in America today, the complexities and demands of religion, the tendency among some to gravitate toward ‘cheap grace’, and the difference between the prophetic and the rabbinic. As with all episodes, our guest draws it to a close by sharing the lessons she has learned about humankind. From start to finish, the conversation here today is filled with fascinating ideas with very real implications in modern society, a function of the eternal guidance of this remarkable text.

Episode Highlights:

· Elana’s dissertation on legal loopholes in rabbinic law · Selling chametz before Passover · Elena’s summary of the passage and its significance for her · Leadership and the message of agency · Morality and politics in America today · The complexities and demands of religion · Gravitating toward ‘cheap grace’ · The difference between prophetic and rabbinic · The lessons about humankind that Elana has learned

Quotes:

“Some of my religious life was constructed around loopholes.”

“You can actually sometimes use the letter of the law in order to fulfill the spirit of the law.”

“You actually have to work on your relationship with God, you have to work on your relationship with people.”

“Everybody is going to want to listen to the guy who gives the easy version.”

“He actually wants the people to get it right.”

“There’s going to be nothing easy about this.” “They turn it into politics when it’s really about morality, and that, I think, happens all the time.” “I always wonder, as an educator, whether we sell religion short by not talking about its complexities, by not talking about its demands.”

“Are we created in God’s image or is God created in our image?”

“We can justify anything.”

“It’s really seeing something much bigger than oneself. We’re not the center of the story.”

“So many people think that they’re the only one.”

“You get to be there for a person and they know they’re not going to be judged.”

“Your problem becomes your security blanket.”

Jeremiah 28 - https://www.sefaria.org/Jeremiah.28.1-17?lang=bi

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Quotes: “Generation apart but we’re studying the same sacred text and trying to derive new lessons from it.” “Even when we’re in our darkest moment…we’ll find the blessing.” “What is the purpose of life if not to give of oneself to others?” “The quarantine is taking away one’s ability to do good.”  “We’re addressing this by being there for each other.” “The greatest light is what’s motivating us.” “Our community needs this moment together right now.” “Shabbat became Shabbat for all of us.” “No one is immune from what’s going on in the world right now.” “Did we all collectively do something wrong in the world to deserve whatever’s happening in the world right now? “What’s helping to cure us is also tearing us apart.” “Learning how to engage with people even if you’re upset at them…still show them love in different ways.” “All of Jewish practice is about reminders.” “There’s definitely diversity in a lot of programming the communities do.” “A striking example of what young people can do when community’s the mission.” “People can chart their own path.” “People want to grow and they want to be a part of something bigger especially during the adolescent years.”  

Leviticus 14:1 – 15:33 - https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.14.1-15.33?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Michal begins the conversation by summarizing the passage, noting its horrifying nature and the lack of female commentary on the Torah and the corresponding lack of attention given to violence against women within it. From that point on, this episode becomes a class in the art of arguing the Torah, as she and Mark explore differing perspectives and readings on a number of its passages. The back and forth of interpretations regarding such topics as the treatment of women, judicial systems, competing claims for power, government actions, and the lessons to be found in the negative aspects of the Torah, make for truly exciting and thought provoking listening. Michal’s literary expertise is on full display as she discusses the nature of storytelling in ancient times, the role of the ‘trickster’, and the lack of female perspective, particularly in Dinah’s story. This conversation draws to a close with the lessons Michal has learned about humankind and her thoughts on the need to ensure respect for all on a systemic level. As you listen today, you will understand precisely why Mark would absolutely love to participate in Michal’s class as, together, they exchange an array of informed and often differing perspectives and opinions throughout this episode which Michal fittingly describes as a ‘good little argument about the Bible’.

Quotes:

“I find that to be a truly horrifying passage.”

“What the Bible is sanctioning there is ‘You may rape them to death’.”

“What it shows is what gets ignored when certain people are not given voices to comment on the Bible.”

“Women were not really allowed to be the authorities on these texts, and so lines like that just got ignored.”

“Can’t we say that the Jewish people coalesced around being horrified at violence against women in the rape of Dinah?”

“Lot is like Fredo in ‘The Godfather’. He’s like a bumbling moron.”

“There really is a hierarchy in the biblical world, and the biblical world is interested in rich men.”

“I really think the Book of Ruth is a perfect book.”

“When you change the lens through which you’re reading this material, you see a whole world that is invisible to those at the top of the hierarchy.”

“My perspective is inherently political…it’s about who has power and who doesn’t.”

“I think one of the greatest things that the Jewish tradition gives to us is the notion that our heroes are not perfect.”

“Women and girls, daughters, were property and had no options, and maybe we can create a different world.”

“When we look at the story from below…we see different things.”

“When you trick the trickster, it really undoes the whole order of things, and the Bible is very concerned with order…right from the beginning.”

“We never actually get Dinah’s perspective.”

“People don’t like to give up their ideas.”

“Everyone wants respect. We need to change the angle at which we look at things so that everyone gets respect.”

“It is so easy for us to give people respect, and yet we don’t.”

Genesis 19:6-9 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.19.6-9?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

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Sotah 49b:11-14 - https://www.sefaria.org/Sotah.49b.11-14?lang=bi  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Rabbi Schneier begins the conversation by sharing his summary of the passage and its context, comparing the treatment of Isaac and Ishmael by the Qur’an and the Torah, and looking at differing definitions of ‘a great nation’. He and Mark then delve into the messages of gratitude and opening our eyes to our blessings when seeking salvation that are found in the passage, highlighting how they are pertinent to everyday life and in the counseling which he provides. The episode concludes with the lessons about humankind that the Rabbi has learned, the need for leadership, empathy and understanding in our world, and some exciting breaking news regarding his synagogue and JBS. As you will undoubtedly agree, this is both an ‘extraordinary and very difficult passage’ providing a wealth of wisdom and advice for our modern times through the ‘powerful, powerful lessons’ it offers us all, and which are revealed here today.

Episode Highlights:

· Rabbi Schneier’s summary of the passage and its context · Comparing the Qur’an and the Torah’s treatment of Isaac and Ishmael · Differing definitions of a great nation · How Ishmael was saved in the desert · Overlooking the obvious · The resonance between this passage and the story of Balaam · The message of this passage for everyday, especially during the pandemic, and in the counseling which the Rabbi provides · The definition of Judah · Looking in front of you, behind you, and inside of you · The lessons that Rabbi Schneier has learned about humankind · The need for leadership, empathy, and understanding · Breaking news about the Hampton Synagogue and the Jewish Broadcasting Service (JBS)

Quotes:

“Abraham is asked to sacrifice both his sons.”

“There’s no creature whom God does not test.”

“Abraham is really the embodiment of being tested.”

“Often, all we have to do is open our eyes and the source of our salvation is right in front of us.”

“This has been one of the most powerful, powerful lessons in the Torah, in the Bible.”

“Gratitude exists before I do.”

“We thank before we think.”

“The very essence of being Jew means to give thanks.”

“In life, we have to learn how to maximize our blessings, and not to exaggerate our troubles.”

“You don’t need any divine intervention.”

“It’s easy to overlook the obvious.”

“Let me help you open your eyes and see the opportunities and see the blessings and maybe your salvation is right there.”

“People need to be led. People need to be challenged. People need inspiration. They need to be galvanized.”

“Where there is hope, nothing is impossible.”

“It’s all about balance.”

“When it comes to synagogues, there’s no business like shul business.”

Genesis 21:9-20 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.21.9-20?lang=bi&aliyot=0

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Rabbi Bergman begins by sharing his summary of the passage, his admiration for Martin Buber’s perspective on it, and the notion of the first light of Creation. He and Mark then discuss the contrast between physical and spiritual light, and the connection between light and so many sacred moments of Jewish life, particularly Hanukkah. The Rabbi concludes the episode with the lessons he has learned about humankind and his call to respect and take care of each other and of nature as well. You will undoubtedly be swept up in the passion and enthusiasm which Rabbi Bergman brings to today’s examination of the light of God and its infusion into our world and everyday lives, demonstrating once more the timeless relevance and guidance inherent in the Torah.

Episode Highlights: · Rabbi Bergman’s summary of the passage and its significance for him · Martin Buber · The first light · Physical and spiritual light · The circle of light · The universal challenge · The connection between this passage and Hanukkah · Respecting and taking care of nature · The lessons about humankind that Rabbi Bergman has learned · Noah’s wife’s sacred work

Quotes:

“We have the beginning of the beginning of humankind.”

“This is not a history book.”

“The Torah tries to teach us the meaning of our lives.”

“What is the light of the first day?”

“I think that this light is God’s presence.”

“I will put Myself in the physical world.”

“Discover the difference between physical and spiritual.”

“Where is the hidden light where we can bring more light to the world?”

“This is the story of humankind.”

“The light is the spirit.”

“In your small table, with your close friends and family, you recreate the miracle of the light.”

“Life is the light of God.”

“We need to be there with our brothers.”

“In every generation, in every time, the flood is coming.”

“We need to rebuild balance inside and outside.”

“Peace is in us.”

“Everyday we have a miracle to celebrate.”

Genesis 1:1-5 When God began to create heaven and earth— the earth being unformed and void, with darkness over the surface of the deep and a wind from God sweeping over the water— God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, a first day. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.1.1-5?lang=bi&aliyot=0

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Notes go here

Isaiah 58;1-8- https://www.sefaria.org/Isaiah.58.1-8?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Genesis 23 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.23.1-20?lang=bi&aliyot=0  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

He begins the conversation by sharing the selected text, its importance for him and how he was introduced to it initially. He and Mark then embark on an extensive analysis of the differing possible readings of this text, some examples of it from both the Bible and in Jon’s work, as well as the importance of learning through failure, walking in God’s ways, and being unique in business. Jon also shares his thoughts on the message this text provides in the time of COVID, and he concludes the discussion with the lessons he has learned about humankind. Fittingly, Mark and Jon dedicate this episode to Rabbi Moshe Scheiner of Palm Beach Synagogue, the man who first introduced Jon to this instructive text, and whose wisdom and understanding continues to inspire them, as is clearly demonstrated here today.

Episode Highlights: · Jon’s summary of the commentary and its importance for him · How he found it · Some differing readings of it · Some practical examples of this commentary · Learning through failure · Walking in God’s ways · This text’s message in the context of COVID · Biblical examples of leaping over obstacles · Jon’s use of Torah wisdom in his businesses · Being unique in business · The lessons that Jon has learned about humankind  Quotes: “There are many different readings you could have into this.” “Be bold, have conviction, have energy.” “Don’t go low in the first place. Go high in the first place.” “Just do it.” “Take the creative, bold approach in the first place.” “The conventional wisdom is usually right, and seldom profitable.” “If you’re not doing something which is long odds, there really is no chance of you building anything that’s significant or different or unique.” “Never trouble trouble until trouble troubles you.” “Anxiety and worry is really wasted energy.” “I’m a huge worrier.” “Judaism tells us to keep moving along, to keep moving forward…you can’t do good deeds if you’re not in motion.” “Jumping over is a way more aggressive and bold forward momentum than crawling like a baby under.” “You only learn by going.” “Walk, leap, and go.” “Just copying doesn’t work.” “My playbook is totally unique stuff.” “No person leads an unencumbered life.” L’chatchila Ariber The world says that if you cannot crawl under an obstacle, try to leap over it. However, I say, leap over it in the first place! https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/2718066/jewish/What-Does-Lchatchila-Ariber-Mean.htm  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: mailto:daniel@therabbishusband.com

Genesis 1:1-8 Bereshit When God began to create heaven and earth— the earth being unformed and void, with darkness over the surface of the deep and a wind from God sweeping over the water— God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. God saw that the light was good, and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness He called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, a first day. God said, “Let there be an expanse in the midst of the water, that it may separate water from water.” God made the expanse, and it separated the water which was below the expanse from the water which was above the expanse. And it was so. God called the expanse Sky. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.1.1?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: mailto:daniel@therabbishusband.com

In this wide-ranging conversation, Jonathan begins by offering his summary of the passage and then he and Mark engage in an extensive analysis of both this passage and others that share similarities with it. In so doing, they touch upon a number of topics such as divine experiences, determining the impact we can have upon the world and others, the primacy of helping others over prayer, and ensuring the continuity of the Jewish people. Jonathan also shares his perspective on the most important Jewish holidays, his advice for parents, his stand against Jeremy Corbyn, and the experience of British Jews. He concludes the episode with his thoughts on our biggest legacy, small acts of kindness, and the lessons about humankind which he has learned. So much of what is shared today by these two enthusiastic thinkers can be summed up in one of Jonathan’s final statements, “Stand up, be counted as a Jew, make your difference, engage with your heritage” – valuable advice and guidance inspired by this eternally relevant test.

Episode Highlights:

· His summary of the passage and its meaning for him · The purpose of a divine experience · Determining what impact we can make on the world and others · Committing to Judaism · The primacy of helping others over prayer · Ensuring the continuity of the Jewish people · Jonathan’s perspective on the most important Jewish holidays · Jonathan’s advice for parents · His stand against Jeremy Corbyn · Comparing the experiences of American Jews and British Jews · Our biggest legacy · Small acts of kindness · The lessons about humankind that Jonathan has learned

Quotes:

“It talks about a man of action. It talks about a man who understands his place in the world, and that he’s here to do something.”

“Okay God, if You could just hold on a minute, I’ve got some business to attend to. I’ve got some people that I need to look after.”

“Say a little, and do a lot.”

“There are many ways to approach God…you can get close to God and not be a Jew.”

“It is a miracle that we, as a Jewish people, have continued.”

“These are words and text that have huge relevance in our day-to-day lives.”

“Sometimes we forget our own heritage.”

“There are times in your life when you need to make a stand.”

“We live in a generation that’s been blessed.”

“We, as Jews, have never had it better.”

“You have to do the joyful things first.”

“It’s what we do in our own homes that’s our biggest legacy.”

“Our walls know us best, don’t they?”

“Have empathy for your fellow man or woman.”

“Keep yourself grounded.”

Genesis 18 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.18.1?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

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Psalms 119:89 - https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.119.89?lang=en 

Joshua 1:6-9 - https://www.sefaria.org/Joshua.1.6-9?lang=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter: Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: mailto:daniel@therabbishusband.com

Quotes: “Word for word, the greatest book ever written, I believe, is the book of Jonah.” “I think it’s prophetic sabotage.” “He’s not the Genesis 18 Abraham.” “The whole thing is a satire of the prophets and the works of the prophets.” “Jonah is a narcissist.” “Prophets are social outcasts.” “People who are truth tellers are oftentimes insufferable.” “In some deep sense, sitting in the vulnerability of nature and observing the world is the normal condition in which we see how the world unfolds.” “God may have a larger business plan than can be adjudicated morally by, like, what happens to you at any given moment.” “He is way too focused on his own piece of the story than he is about his job in the world which is to understand that God’s plan is more transcendent than he’s capable of seeing.” “Picking and choosing – I need God to operate a particular way.” “You can comply or you can argue, but you can’t run away.” “I come away just haunted by the rhetorical question at the end and challenged by it, and I think that’s what studying the Torah is supposed to get us to do.” “More people are carrying around more stuff in baggage than we think about them.” “Things seem harder today for many Jews than they may have earlier.” “Human beings are still searching for community, purpose, and meaning.” “I think that the profound partisanship in our Jewish community is a witness to ‘homeness’.” “We’ve become too locked into convenient and neat stories about our identity and our politics as opposed to being enthralled by the paradoxes.”  

Jonah 4 - https://www.sefaria.org/Jonah.4.1-11?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage:  The Rabbi's Husband Mark’s Twitter:  Mark Gerson - The Rabbi's Husband (@markgerson) The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: mailto:daniel@therabbishusband.com

Genesis 18 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.18.1-33?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en 

Genesis 22 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.22.1-24?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage:  http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Quotes: “Somehow I named myself Solomon.” “To really have faith that even if you stopped working, you will have all that you need, that God will provide.” “In the year of Jubilee, the 50th year, any debt that was accumulated would be forgiven.” “Do not take advantage of each other.” “God is getting deep into the intricacies of commercial and contract law.” “How you conduct yourself in business is of divine importance.” “In God’s humor, this year could be looked upon as a year of Jubilee.” “This year was very much like stay home, be with family, spend time with family, spend time reflecting on Me, obey Me, and I am going to take care of your needs.” “Through faith, they are surviving.” “We shall proclaim freedom throughout the land for all of its inhabitants.” “We’ve all fallen on hard times.” “I’ve seen, kind of, more of a humanitarian approach to commercial real estate more than ever.” “They’re doing the opposite of, kind of, what this passage is talking about…they’re taking advantage of the situation…they’re not being good stewards.” “We grew 16 Handles organically.” “I just need to become the largest slice within that pie.” “That was almost like my journey going into this land of giants.” “This is exactly where I need to be.” “All of my franchisees initially were customers.” “Deep down inside, man is seeking reconciliation.” “When we are seeing and speaking to another person who is also created in God’s image, I think the presence of God is there.”  

Leviticus 25 - https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.25.1-55?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage:  http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Chaplain Schaick’s summary of the passage reaches back to its roots in an earlier chapter in II Samuel that introduces listeners to the relatively little known Mephibosheth, and the similarity of his story to that of Joseph. He and Mark explore the notion of people who have been ‘dropped’, their tendency to allow themselves to be defined by their setbacks, and the Chaplain’s strategies for encouraging all to focus upon their blessings in life. He finishes up the podcast by offering a glimpse of how chaplaincy works with so many service members of different faiths, and, of course, the lessons he has learned about humankind. Brimming with wisdom and insight, Chaplain Schaick’s analysis of this fascinating passage here today reveals its direct relevance not only to his noble ministry but to society as whole, particularly during the pandemic, offering enlightening information and valuable advice for us all in the process.

Episode Highlights:

· Chaplain Schaick’s summary of the passage, the character introduced in it, and why it’s important for him · The roots of the story in II Samuel 4 and Mephibosheth · This story’s similarity to Joseph’s story · People who have been ‘dropped’ · Focusing on what we can be grateful for even during the pandemic · Clinging to negative experiences · Ministering to those defining themselves by their setbacks · The value of journaling and finding blessings throughout the day · How chaplaincy works among so many people of different faiths · The lessons about humankind that Chaplain Schaick has learned

Quotes:

“I want to show God’s kindness to whoever remains.”

“He’s gone from a nothing to a Prince.”

“There is so much that has not changed, and, quite frankly, so much to be thankful for even in the midst of this difficult time.”

“This COVID pandemic has been renamed as ‘the thing who has taken everything away from us’, when, in fact, that simply is not true, especially for men and women of faith.”

“This was a life defining event for him, as it is for so many people in Africa today.”

“So many of us allow ourselves to be defined by what we’re not.”

“We’ve been welcomed to be Princes and Princesses and allowed to eat with the King.”

“Be a regular and disciplined rememberer of those things that are well with me.”

“Writing out five things that went well for you today.”

“Be on the hunt for things during the day that really, truly are blessings.”

“Increasingly, young people these days are really agnostic when it comes to the brand of theology.”

“Young people today are just looking for authenticity.”

“We’ll have Southern Baptists going to Muslim prayer service.”

“We’ll have Jews attending Christian service.”

“Some connect better with others…religion is largely personality informed and driven.”

“Human beings are extraordinary actors and actresses.”

“Even the most joyful among us are walking a hard road.”

“Persons who give the great religions of the world a chance, almost never come up, you know, wanting.”

“Faith, for me, is a compass.”

“Religion and the word, ligament, come from the very same root word.”

II Samuel 9-11 - https://www.sefaria.org/II_Samuel.9.1-11.27?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

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Their conversation begins with Jesse describing his faith journey and his illness, before summarizing the passage and why it is of consequence to him. Relating the themes of hope and rebuilding within the passage to the situation through which the world has moved in 2020, Jesse stresses the need for strength to achieve success in the ‘new normal’, the importance of a God-centered life, the greatest need in America these days, and God’s ability to help rebuild lives. He and Mark also discuss the notions of taking a step of faith, God working through us, the greatest gift a parent can give a child, and Jesse’s perspective on the physical church in 2020. As is the tradition for this podcast, it concludes with the lessons our esteemed guest has learned about humankind. As Jesse rightly points out, this passage’s prophet is considered minor solely for the length of the books, definitely not for the power of his words – a fact that is proven beyond a shadow of a doubt in today’s rich and rewarding discussion.

Episode Highlights:

· Jesse’s faith journey · His life threatening illness · Jesse’s summary of the passage and why it is consequential to him · Strength and success in the ‘new normal’ · A me-centered life compared with a God-centered life · The greatest need in America right now · Rebuilding lives · Taking a step of faith · God working through us · What Jesse has learned about the physical church in 2020 · The greatest gift a parent can give a child · The lessons that Jesse has learned about humankind

Quotes:

“Sometimes your passion isn’t where your greatest gifts are.”

“I never thought I’d be a pastor.”

“When my world was truly rocked, that’s where I found, first finding Jesus and then also finding an identity and a security that I’d never had before.”

“There was a foundation that began, that ends up being like a rock instead of sand.”

“It’s like you have a source of love and joy and peace that you never had before.”

“We’ve had six months of rubble.”

“We’re not just going to return to what it was like in 2019. We can’t put new wine in old wine skins.”

“Success isn’t going to be rebuilding the past.”

“The later glory will be the greater glory.”

“It’s easy to drift into selfishness.”

“Laws don’t change hearts.”

“God can rebuild any life.”

“I think the home is the place that has to be vibrant. The home is the hub right now.”

“When all of God’s people are filled with God’s presence and it’s everywhere they go, 24/7, now you’ve got a church that’s alive.”

“When somebody truly knows the living God, it’s like a fountain that can’t be stopped.”

“Don’t miss God’s grace. Don’t miss the God of the Bible.”

“We need each other far more than we realize.”

“We need unity. We need that now.”

“We need peace right now.”

Book of Haggai - https://www.sefaria.org/Haggai.1.1-2.23?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

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Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Exodus 12:1-3 The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt: This month shall mark for you the beginning of the months; it shall be the first of the months of the year for you. Speak to the whole community of Israel and say that on the tenth of this month each of them shall take a lamb to a family, a lamb to a household. https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.12.1-3?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage:  http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Pat’s unwavering love and support of the Jewish people and State is palpable throughout this episode, particularly as he discusses the impact on his life of the lyrics he wrote for ‘Exodus’, and, in what would come to be known as singing ‘a prophecy’, his opportunity to perform it for troops during his visit to Israel in the midst of the Yom Kippur War. His relationship with Elvis Presley, his plan for peace, his definition of Zionism, and his many tours in Israel are also discussed. Pat tenderly shares the details of his successful 65 years of marriage to his beloved wife, Shirley, and The Boone Life Centre they founded together in Tanzania in conjunction with GOD TV. This thoroughly fascinating episode draws to a close with Pat sharing the lessons he has learned about mankind, and the story behind his role as a Christian Ambassador of Tourism for Israel. In this entertaining and informative conversation that spans many decades in the life of this truly remarkable individual, what becomes crystal clear is Pat Boone’s pioneering role in leading the formidable Christian Jewish friendship that is enjoyed throughout the world today, and the strength of his commitment to ensure its continuity for the future.

Episode Highlights:

· The story of Pat’s lyrics for the movie ‘Exodus’ · How they came to be displayed on the wall of the Righteous Gentiles at the Yad Vasham · His love of the Torah, the Jewish people, and the Jewish State · Pat’s visit to Israel during the Yom Kippur War · The story of Pat’s friendship with Elvis Presley from their first meeting to their last · Elvis’ relationship with the Jews · His definition of Zionism · The One Year Bible · Pat’s book, ‘“Questions About God And the Answers That Could Change Your Life” · Pat’s tours in Israel · Pat’s wife, Shirley, and her dad, Red Foley · The secret to a long and happy marriage · The Boone Life Centre in Tanzania · GOD TV · The lessons Pat has learned about humankind · Christian Ambassador of Tourism

Quotes:

“We have so much more in common than we even know yet.”

“You sang a prophecy.”

“We were two boys from Tennessee that had hit it big.”

“We were bonded to Israel.”

“The man is spiritually hungry.”

“Israel and the Jews were always...part of our history.”

“Through Israel all the nations of the Earth will be blessed.”

“Israel has become a blessing to every nation in the world.”

“We didn’t kiss for 9 months…I came home on Cloud 9.”

“Shirley was the ultimate mother and wife.”

“It was our commitments to God as well as to each other that made us hang in there.”

“I miss her, I love her, she’s all over this house I’m still living in.”

“She’s hovering nearby, I think.”

“You’re giving water and education. What could be more important?”

“Love the Lord thy God.”

“The whole duty of man is to fear God and keep his commandments.”

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Their conversation today is a wide ranging one which not only summarizes the two stories, but also delves deeply into the many themes and lessons within, their relevance to our present day, and, of course the connection between the two. Such notions as becoming the Chosen People, the invention of morality, divine commands and moral philosophy, Abraham’s great accomplishment, and identity protective cognition are explored all within the context of Abraham’s journey toward becoming a knight of faith. Noam concludes with the lessons he has learned about humankind, which quickly segues into the nature and styles of parenting. Drawing upon their own insights and the wisdom of a number of Torah scholars, Noam and Mark engage in a thoroughly rewarding back and forth exchange, alternating between challenging, supporting, and building upon each other’s interpretation of these two pivotal texts, ultimately revealing the eternal guidance the texts have to offer.

Episode Highlights:

· Noam’s summaries of Genesis 18 and 22 · “Perhaps the most instructive verse in the entire Bible.” · Covenantal morality · Becoming the Chosen People · God enjoying Abraham’s challenging Him · The invention of morality · The spiritual zenith of Abraham’s career · Why Abraham challenges God in Genesis 18 but no Genesis 22 · Divine commands and moral philosophy · The last encounter of Abraham with God, Isaac, and Sarah · Abraham’s great accomplishment and 21st Century social science · Humility – the most important quality · Identity protective cognition · Viewing the history and society of Israel from multiple perspectives · The tension of ideas · What it means to be a Jew · Becoming a knight of faith · The lessons Noam has learned about humankind · Parenting styles and the relationship between parent and child

Quotes:

“I’m going to invite Abraham into My thinking.”

“Inviting Abraham into the conversation in order to construct morality.”

“The very purpose of the Jewish people in the Bible, not because they are…the Chosen People, but to be the Chosen People.”

“Are you really willing to kill the innocent with the guilty? That doesn’t seem to be very ethical.”

“God never directly commands Abraham to sacrifice his son.”

“For Abraham to take Isaac off of the altar was many times harder than for him to offer him up in the first place.”

“Self-justification of our past…dictates our future.”

“This was Abraham’s great accomplishment, is being able to say, ‘I was wrong, and I’m going to change’.”

“Embracing the joy of being wrong.”

“People don’t change their minds.”

“We see Abraham transcend himself at the end without getting anything in return for it.”

“I believe that people are good.”

“Teaching students and teaching adults is really quite similar.”

“In order to do good, you need a bilateral relationship.”

Genesis 18 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.18.1-33?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Genesis 22 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.22.1-24?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

‘Unpacking Israeli History’ podcast: https://unpacked.media/unpacking-israeli-history-podcast/

Marissa begins by reciting the passage in both Hebrew and English, and focuses on its translation of ‘carry God’s name’ as the basis for the meaning it holds for her. She and Mark then explore why this is one of the most important of the Ten Commandments, the significance of these Commandments having been given outside of Israel, and the current occurrences of people doing horrible things in God’s name – the one unforgivable sin. They also examine people’s need for meaning in their lives, as well as the dangers of creating God in our image and pursuing ‘Godly causes’ of our own design. Marissa finishes up by sharing the lessons about humankind that she has learned, leading to a further discussion of God’s love of diversity in people.

Episode Highlights:

· Marissa’s reading of the passage in both Hebrew and English and its meaning for her · ‘Carry God’s name’ · Why it is one of the most important commandments · The significance of the Ten Commandments being given outside of Israel · People doing horrible things in God’s name in current times · The one unforgivable sin · Craving a craving · Creating God in our image · The dangers of substituting yourself, your cause, or your belief for God · The lessons that Marissa has learned about humankind · The four different personality types – eagles, parrots, doves, and owls · God’s love of diversity

Quotes:

“You cannot use My name to do something bad.”

“Possibly one of the most important commandments and that is because if people allow themselves to use God’s name to do evil, what kind of a world are we going to be living in?”

“God doesn’t want us to do horrible things to other people in His name.”

“These are rules for humanity, not just rules for people of Israel.”

“That’s the one unforgivable sin – to use My name to do evil.”

“Just within the first few commandments, we’re given a true…prediction of what happens in an atheist or a world that moves away from the Ten Commandments.”

“Everybody yearns for God.”

“You should not replace God with literally anything.”

“More Bible and more Torah, specifically, is good for everybody on both sides to just remind each other that you should not do evil things to other people in the name of what you believe is a Godly cause.”

“Can you imagine what a beautiful community we would have if we could just say…’I may not agree with you, but…respect you…and I can learn from you’?”

“A little more humility on all sides will bring us together and will bring us peace.”

“Everyone I see, I can learn from.”

“All humans need different perspectives always in their lives.”

“Understanding that humans function in such different ways has been very helpful to me.”

Exodus 20:7 You shall not swear falsely by the name of the LORD your God; for the LORD will not clear one who swears falsely by His name. https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.20.7?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.7.1-8.22?lang=en&aliyot=0  Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage:  http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

The conversation starts off with Freddy sharing his summary of the passage, its significance for him, and the demonstration of God’s favor on Joseph’s life found within it. He and Mark then embark upon an extensive discussion regarding forgiveness, including its invention, the lessons from the text regarding it, its divine nature, and why it is so very necessary these days. They also explore the notions of God working in every moment of our lives, His greater plan for each of us, the stupidity of lying, and Joseph’s transformation. As every guest does, Freddy draws the episode to a close by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind. Given the current state of the world, today’s conversation eliciting this text’s eternal lesson regarding how to respond to those who wrong you, could not be more timely.

Episode Highlights:

· Freddy’s summary of the passage and its significance for him · God’s favor on Joseph’s life · The invention of the idea of forgiveness · What this passage teaches about how to treat those who wrong us · The divine nature of forgiveness and why it is so necessary these days · God’s greater plan for us · The stupidity of lying · Joseph’s transformation · God working in every moment of our lives · The lessons that Freddy has learned about humankind

Quotes:

“His greatness, even though he’s a Jew, is acknowledged by the Egyptians.”

“God, He does want us to mourn, and I think it’s healthy.”

“Joseph invents forgiveness.”

“The notion of forgiveness is so counterintuitive, it’s almost divine. It almost has to come from God because it makes no sense.”

“You can very easily respond to evil with evil without God, but it really does take the power of God to respond to evil with love and forgiveness and genuine forgiveness. “

“He engages in an act of reframing.”

“None of us know what God has earmarked us for.”

“This was all part of God’s plan.”

“We have the luxury of hindsight…but he didn’t.”

“The fingerprints of God were all over every moment of Joseph’s life, just orchestrating and handcrafting this story that I think would speak to us today.”

“God’s been with me all along.”

“It’s so hard for us to remember just that God’s with us in the day-to-day.”

“God you can have every part of my life…that’s the best way to live.”

“Surrender everything you’ve got to God.”

Genesis 50 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.50.1-26?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Jonathan begins by describing his discipline as a writer, and sharing his summary of the passage, its meaning for him, and its relevance to the 2020 American election. He and Mark then discuss its focus on executive powers, Theodor Herzl and the need for Zionism and a Jewish State, the need to conform in certain ways, and Samuel’s choice of Saul as king. They also examine Israel’s journey to becoming a holy nation, the two different Jewish votes, and Jonathan draws the episode to a close by sharing the two lessons he has learned about humankind. As you listen in today, you will quickly discover precisely why Mark considers Jonathan ‘one of the most consistently interesting, instructive, and enlightening columnists in America today’, and how his analysis of ‘Samuel and American political sociology’ in this episode offers many valuable lessons and insights so very necessary for these turbulent times.

Episode Highlights:

· Jonathan’s discipline as a writer · His summary of the passage and its meaning for him · Its relevance to the current American election · Its focus on executive powers · Theodor Herzl and the need for Zionism and a Jewish State · Conforming in certain ways · Samuel’s choice of Saul as king · Becoming a holy nation · The two different Jewish votes · The lessons about humankind that Jonathan has learned

Quotes:

“I don’t get to all the ideas that I have.”

“We want to be like other nations…we need someone who can galvanize us.”

“You are going to regret this.”

“Samuel in a sense is the first Libertarian.”

“We hear you, we still want the king.”

“God is your king, you’re not like other people…you are a covenantal people.”

“The Jews were never going to be…treated by others as normal, and will never behave normally.”

“We have been struggling for more than 3000 years with this conundrum about how we need…normalcy, we need to be able to defend ourselves. In our own day, we need Zionism, we need a State of Israel, but we’re never really going to be normal.”

“In order to be great, you have to do some things the same as everybody else.”

“It means Israel should have an army and thus enable itself to be special.”

“Universalism is the parochialism of the Jews. We’re never quite satisfied.”

“We have this God that keeps asking us to be different, to be special – something that we struggle with, we resist, and yet we’re always drawn back to it one way or the other.”

“There’s probably no two groups in America that vote differently than Reform Jews and Orthodox Jews.”

“The dichotomy is actually growing…much like the rest of America which is becoming more partisan.”

“People believe what they want to believe.”

“If you will it, there is no dream.”

1 Samuel 8:10 Samuel reported all the words of the LORD to the people, who were asking him for a king. https://www.sefaria.org/I_Samuel.8.10?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Rabbi’s Husband Newsletter contact: daniel@therabbishusband.com

Gerald begins by sharing his summary of the passage, its meaning for him, and the notion of how God wants to be understood by humanity which he finds within it. He and Mark then explore the significance of God telling Abraham not to be afraid and choosing stars as an analogy for the number of his children, as well as Abraham’s challenge to God and how it relates to us choosing to bring our doubts to God. They also examine Abraham’s reward of his covenant relationship with God, and how Martin Luther King internalized this passage. Gerald concludes the discussion by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind, which leads to a further discussion regarding what many people expect about having a relationship with God. As you listen in today, you will quickly discover that Gerald has much to teach us all as he turns his formidable analysis to this ‘awesome passage of Genesis 15:1 and the existential questions that follow’.

Episode Highlights:

• · Gerald’s summary of the passage and its meaning for him
• · How God wants to be understood by humanity
• · The significance of God telling Abraham to not be afraid
• · Abraham challenging God
• · Choosing to bring doubt to God
• · God choosing stars as an analogy for the number of Abraham’s children
• · Abraham’s reward of his covenant relationship with God
• · How Martin Luther King internalized this passage
• · The lessons about humankind that Gerald has learned
• · What many people expect about a relationship with God

Quotes:

“God, He actually defines Himself, He names Himself.”

“God wanted…to be known as Abraham’s shield, his defense, and as his exceedingly great reward, and I believe it’s profound to consider out of all of the characteristics, out of all of the attributes, of God, those were the two that he chose to bring Abraham into the understanding of first.”

“The prohibition against fear is the most frequently uttered thing in the Torah.”

“God seems to want the challenge.”

“Bring Me the challenge. Bring Me the doubt.”

“When you truly have faith in God, you’re not fearing any man.”

“When God becomes your reward, you can have contentment.”

“The hope was there even if he wasn’t going to see the fulfillment of it.”

“You cannot have a Torah without Moses.”

“This idea of God being the reward, I think, is so pervasive in the scriptures and, you know, the Word, and it’s just something that grounds us and it’s something that can really become an anchor for how we approach life.”

“The true mark of a great person, or really a good person, is that they will die with their work unfinished.”

“When God’s our reward, that courage, that fearlessness will absolutely be there.”

“There is an unceasing desire that we have to earn what has been freely given to us in our relationship with God.”

“Responding to God and worship is a lot more natural than I believe most would consider it to be.”

“We see from the beginning that it’s always been Him initiating relationship with us.”

Genesis 15:1 Some time later, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision. He said, “Fear not, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great.” https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.15.1?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation begins with Doron explaining the reason he changed universities, his description of Ir David, the turning point in his life that brought him to the City of David, and Mark’s recommendation to watch Erick Stakelbeck’s series on the City of David. They then turn their attention to the passage itself, engaging in an extensive exploration of the significant moments within it, Jacob’s story leading up to it, his trickery, deception, and diplomacy, and the notion of truth in his family. The passage’s relevance to The Abraham Accords and the current challenge that Doron sees for the State of Israel is also explored, as are relationships between Jewish people and Gentiles, and the two meanings of the word ‘enough’ within the Bible. As with all episodes, today’s closes with the lessons our guest has learned about humankind. Genesis 33 abounds with lessons for society today, particularly with regards to the State of Israel.

Episode Highlights:

• · Why Doron went from Michigan St to the University of Michigan
• · The turning point that brought him to the City of David
• · Ir David
• · Erick Stakelbeck’s ‘The City of David's Top 10 Finds Proving Israel's Claim to Jerusalem’
• · The significance of the moment when Esau hugs Jacob
• · Jacob’s story up to this passage and his trickery
• · Jacob’s trickery
• · ‘Circling the mountain’
• · Truth in Jacob’s family
• · Jacob’s deception/diplomacy lesson for current times
• · The Abraham Accords
• · The current challenge Doron sees for the State of Israel
• · Jewish and Gentile relationships
• · The two meanings of ‘enough’
• · The lessons about humankind that Doron has learned

Quotes:

“The moment I went to the University of Michigan, my trajectory was really on course to move to Israel and it prepared me for a lot of what I would face.”

“This was a sensible woman, educated at the University of Michigan, who no longer felt any justification whatsoever for the State of Israel and was leading what became the BDS movement.”

“The City of David…is actually the biblical site of Jerusalem.”

“The City of David has been recognized as the most important archeological site in the State of Israel.”

“You realize the Bible’s unfolding in front of your eyes.”

“He doesn’t get a sword, he gets a hug.”

“I’ve made peace, but I am different…I will protect my generations.”

“That’s no way to treat your brother!”

“There is a very fine line between diplomacy and deception.”

“Who are we going to be as a people now that our defenses are somewhat going down?”

“The trickery that we see in Genesis is one of the reasons why we need a State of Israel.”

“When there’s a Jewish state, we can be forthright, we can be direct, we can have incredible relationships with our gentile friends and allies, and grow together with them, not as one people, as two peoples.”

“David and Bathsheba did what Isaac and Rebekah didn’t do.”

“One story teaches the next and they all teach us.”

“That magical sense - that is what the City of David produces in people.”

“We are all important people in a story that is much larger than ourselves.”

“There is a child inside every single person.”

Genesis 33 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.33.1-20?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Ryan begins by reciting the passage and sharing its significance for him, which finds its roots in his childhood. He and Mark then explore the significance of David’s experience as a shepherd, particularly in elucidating the sheep-shepherd relationship, the passage’s interwoven themes, and the enlightening context provided by the actual criteria for sheep to ‘lie down’. Ryan then reveals how his experience as a CEO has impacted his faith, describes his personal relationship with God, and recounts an absolutely beautiful moment when he was moved by God to speak at his grandfather’s funeral. As is the tradition on the podcast, our guest concludes by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind. Ryan’s passionate tale of how this passage, ‘one of the most well known pieces of human thought’, has been an intimate part of his life from childhood to present day, influencing the way he works and leads his company, provides yet another striking example of the guiding and inspiring power of the Bible in the world and in our lives.

Episode Highlights:

• · Ryan’s recitation and summary of today’s passage
• · Its significance for him
• · The significance for this passage of David being a shepherd
• · The passage’s two interwoven themes
• · The sheep-shepherd relationship
• · The criteria for sheep to lie down
• · How Ryan’s experience as a CEO has impacted and defined his faith
• · His deeply personal relationship with God and hearing his voice
• · Ryan’s eulogy for his grandfather
• · The lessons about humankind that Ryan has learned

Quotes:

“This is the first psalm, first verse I ever memorized growing up, you know, something my dad made sure I memorized and had to recite in front of my church and he had done as well.”

“The perfect reading for anyone looking for comfort in the midst of a storm from a very deeply personal place.”

“We oftentimes think that we’re walking alone.”

“When there’s a shadow, there’s always light.”

“The ultimate shepherd is always there for me.”

“I make sure our team doesn’t get too high or too low.”

“It’s universal and I’m trying to make sure that I apply these lessons David has, as the shepherd to my flock, to my sheep, at Cadre.”

“Faith was the thing my family always leaned on, and I could lean on, and that goes back generations.”

“You have to be open to it.”

“They saw a child go up there and speak from a place of love and care, and someone that was inspired by God.”

“We’re all a lot more similar than different.”

“Open dialogue and conversation can solve a lot.”

“We’re all sheep and our ultimate shepherd is the Lord.”

“Our ability to come together under Him, with Him, for Him, I believe will lead to greater prosperity, fulfillment and love for all – something we all want.”

Psalms 23 - https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.23.1-6?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Max begins the conversation by sharing his summary of the passage, highlighting Daniel’s legacy, and, with Mark, revealing the many parallels in the lives of Daniel and Joseph. They continue by exploring the ability to interpret dreams, understanding God’s message for us, the highest form of prayer, as well as the Jewish conception of prayer. Max also details how he uses this passage to teach about leadership and explains his concept of ‘dream releasers’. The episode concludes with the lessons Max has learned about humankind, which lead into a fascinating discussion regarding the presence of true evil within people and the world. Max’s love for this passage, the lessons it teaches, and its application in our everyday lives, is palpable throughout, rendering this yet another ‘must listen’ episode of the Rabbi’s Husband podcast.

Episode Highlights:

• · Max’s summary of the passage
• · Daniel’s legacy
• · The parallels in the lives of Daniel and Joseph
• · The ability to interpret dreams
• · Understanding God’s message for us
• · The highest form of prayer
• · The Jewish conception of prayer
• · Using this passage to leach leadership
• · Being a ‘dream releaser’
• · The lessons that Max has learned about mankind
• · Evil in people and the world

Quotes:

“A hand appears and begins to write letters on the wall.”

“We see what a life of faithfulness has created in Daniel, what his legacy is, what the Lord has done in his life that has made him such a great leader and a great child of God.”

“It really indicates the spirit of a person that is so deeply rooted in the Word of God, that they’re able to make sense of what God is saying in people’s lives, even when the people themselves are not able to make sense of it.”

“Just as many people today who don’t take the time to study Torah or the Word of God, they’re confused by things that seem obvious to people who have rooted themselves in what God is saying.”

“I’ve always believed that meditation on the Word of God is the highest form of prayer.”

“Prayer transforms ourselves.”

“Every human being can develop these characteristics by simply rooting themselves in God’s Word, by being diligent in pursuing God.”

“I think the best leadership is when we can help other people become everything that God wants them to become.”

“God obviously has dreams and plans for the lives of His children, and sometimes they need someone who’s deeply rooted in the things of God to come alongside them and release those dreams.”

“The writing is on the wall, you just have to read it.”

“No matter how tarnished it is…there is the residual glory of God to some degree in every human being that we encounter and…it’s worth making the effort to find that, and to focus on that.”

“Everybody that we encounter in life, every human being, has something to teach us if we’re willing to learn.”

“Son, stick your finger in a glass of water and pull it out and tell me about the size of the hole it leaves.”

“There’s pure evil in the world.”

“Part of my responsibility as one who seeks after the Lord is to try to see the Glory of God in situations and even in people, and I will grant you that there are people that I have not been able to find the glory of God in.”

Daniel 5 - https://www.sefaria.org/Daniel.5.1-30?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation describes the events in this very important story, and touches on numerous lessons that it imparts along the way. Their exploration looks at topics such as the most important lesson in the Torah, the examples of polygamy and the interpretations of dreams within the Torah, sibling rivalry, Cain’s sin and the nature of sin itself, the indispensability of philosophy and interpretation, and the reason for the absence of words to be found in the text when Cain apparently speaks to Abel before killing him. Taking responsibility for others, Cain’s punishment and the tragedy of ‘what will never be’ as a result of his actions, and the highest commandment in Judaism are all examined as well, before Brandon concludes the episode by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind. Woven throughout their far-reaching discussion are the many ways these lessons and topics relate to life today, and you will undoubtedly find yourself caught up in the extensive level of knowledge, enthusiasm, and passion prevalent in this ‘fascinating discussion about so many subjects emanating from the great story of Cain and Abel’.

Episode Highlights:

• · Brandon’s summary of the passage and its meaning for him
• · One of the most important lessons of the Torah
• · Polygamy in the Torah
• · Sibling rivalry
• · Cain’s sin
• · Sin as distancing yourself from God
• · The indispensability of philosophy and interpretation
• · Dream interpretations in the Torah
• · Interpreting Cain’s lack of words toward Abel
• · Taking responsibility for others
• · Cain’s punishment
• · The tragedy of what will never be due to Cain’s actions
• · The highest commandment in Judaism
• · The lessons about humankind that Brandon has learned

Quotes:

“We constantly see these narratives where they just seem to be poking at the established rules.”

“Every time we see polygamy in the Torah, it’s a complete disaster.”

“Abel is probably the guy we want to be in a certain way…the reality is we’re all Cain, we’re all ones of substance.”

“You have the choice, Cain, you could be doing good things or bad things.”

“Our interpretations are going to have massively important consequences.”

“Realizing that you are a supporting character in someone else’s dream – that’s self-awareness…essentially, we’re all Abel to each other.”

“If you treat the world as though the people around you are just passing by and don’t matter, you are likely to find sin crouching at your door like Cain did.”

“It’s not about me, it’s about other people.”

“Of course, you are your brother’s keeper.”

“He is caught up in protecting his reputation, rather than owning his deeds.”

“He’s a total narcissist…it’s a sin of character, which may be the worst kind of sin.”

“We will follow what we do.”

“You could have been better than your brother, instead you’re worse than your father.”

“Earth right now has the potential to be Heaven or Hell for us.”

“We need to detach from that ego.”

“Everybody has as much complexity of thought, as much depth of character, as much, you know, just so much going on inside them as you do.”

Genesis 4:1-12 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.4.1-12?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rabbi Cohen begins the discussion by sharing his summary of the passage, its significance for him, and the interpretation of it, which involves transitioning from a taker to a giver, that he has adopted. He and Mark then engage in a fascinating conversation where they explore alternate interpretations, the ethic this passage communicates, and how it relates to the counseling which the Rabbi offers. They also examine the goal of marriage and to ‘get to Aryeh Levin’, the story behind Rabbi Cohen’s involvement in YACHAD, and the distinction between marriage and partnership. As all guests do, Rabbi Cohen finishes the discussion with the lessons he has learned about humankind. Today’s episode presents a brilliant demonstration of the Torah’s openness to interpretation as well as the eternal truths it presents, both of which are exemplified in the analysis of this passage which truly ‘should be the basis of all Jewish, and maybe Gentile, marital counseling’.

Episode Highlights:

• · Rabbi Cohen’s summary of the passage its significance for him
• · Transitioning from taker to giver
• · Parents of married children needing to let go
• · The ethic this passage is communicating
• · Rabbi Cohen’s counseling around this passage
• · God anticipating or observing a problem
• · The goal of marriage
• · The story behind Rabbi Cohen’s involvement in YACHAD
• · ‘Get to Aryeh Levin’
• · Marriage vs. partnership
• · The lessons Rabbi Cohen has learned about humankind

Quotes:

“We now have to assume that position of the giver as opposed to the childlike taker.”

“It must have been a problem in biblical days of parents remaining too involved in the lives of their married children – incredible, some things never end!”

“You’re supposed to individuate, you’re supposed to mature.”

“In early years of marriage, you do see a lot of issues that are connected to families of origin, in-law overreaching, particularly if people aren’t financially independent.”

“Our relationships have to change in different periods of time.”

“In many instances, the 10 or 15 year-old child is actually the parent in the relationship with the 40 and 50 year-old.”

“He is kind of setting a tone for what’s to come.”

“These are all kind of essential basics, foundational concepts to Jewish marriage, 100 percent.”

“I think what the Torah is saying here is that the goal of the process of the whole marriage over many, many years is to reach this high level where…we’re really one.”

“There’s no real Jewish notion of independence, it’s a notion of interdependence.”

“A person, an individual, has to be able to bind himself or herself to the community, to others.”

“I think at the end of the day, there is goodness in everybody, but sometimes you have to dig very deep to unearth it.”

“You kind of have to make your own mazel…create our own opportunities.”

“The Jewish story never ends…just know you’re going to die unfulfilled and that’s okay.”

Genesis 2:24 Hence a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, so that they become one flesh. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.2.24?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The conversation begins with David sharing his summary of the passage, the many lessons it contains, and his focus today on two of those lessons. He and Mark then explore the notion of divine reframing, the impact upon Joseph of the near fratricide he experienced, and the genius of Pope John XXIII. Calling upon his vast knowledge of Washington politics, David reveals his perspective on the sense of brotherhood he finds there, how social media has impacted it, the current level of partisanship evident, and the difference in the way politicians respond to the media as opposed to their constituents. The episode draws to a close with David’s suggestions for structuring the Presidential Debates effectively, and the lessons about humankind that he has learned. While the lessons of this remarkable passage are timeless, the expert analysis and extrapolation of them here today could not be timelier, given the current, and future, state of politics and the world.

Episode Highlights:

• · David’s summary of the passage and the lessons it provides
• · Growing from previous mistakes
• · Finding the positive in negative situations
• · An act of divine reframing
• · How near fratricide impacted Joseph
• · The genius of Pope John XXIII
• · The status of a sense of brotherhood in Washington DC politics over the years, and the impact of social media upon it
• · Seeing government as a mutual endeavor rather than a game
• · A comparison between a politician’s response to the media and to a constituent
• · How to structure the Presidential Debate so that Americans win
• · The lessons about humankind that David has learned

Quotes:

“One that…gives a lot of different lessons, different takeaways, that you can get on personal growth, forgiveness, reconciliation, all kinds of other important themes.”

“You can grow from your previous mistakes.”

“You can find positive from the most negative situations.”

“He’s a jerk when he’s young, but he’s a genius.”

“No matter what has happened with family members in the past…you could always find a way to get back together.”

“When you announce yourself as someone else’s brother, all the barriers drop.”

“You’re treating them as an equal.”

“Overall, it is pretty bitter, and we could use a whole lot more reconciliation.”

“We all got here the same way.”

“Social media puts immediate pressure on these people to make very harsh statements they might not otherwise say.”

“Essentially, you are on one team or another.”

“The Bible, in so many instances, is so insistent on creating a positive structure…it’s basically all throughout.”

“It seems like there’s got to be some kind of a penalty for just constantly interrupting the person you’re debating.”

“In Congress, there’s still very much a sense of decorum.”

“Language is important.”

“You don’t want to question people’s motives.”

“I think that the majority of people who go into public service mean it for the right reasons.”

Genesis 45:5-7 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.45.5-7?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Nick begins by summarizing the passage, sharing its meaning for him, and looking at how it demonstrates that God welcomes our humanity and works with the broken. He explains the three levels of faith found within the passage, and outlines the ways to help people move to the highest level through prayer, giving them a ‘God size vision’, identifying miracles in everyday life, and exercising their spiritual muscles. As with all guests, Nick draws the episode to a close with the lessons he has learned about humankind. His insight and passion, so clearly on display here today, not only bring the lessons of this passage to life, but also provide ample evidence as to why Pastor Nick Hall is ‘widely known as his generation’s successor to Billy Graham’.

Episode Highlights:

· Nick’s summary of the passage and why it’s meaningful to him · God welcoming our humanity · The three levels of faith involved in this passage and getting someone to the third level · God working with the broken · The power of prayer · Giving people a ‘God size vision’ · Identifying miracles in everyday life · Working out your spiritual muscles · The lessons about humankind that Nick has learned

Quotes:

“It’s a man who is trying to have a conversation with God in the midst of a really hard time.”

“When God opens the prophet’s eyes, we actually see his heart change.”

“I’m going to put feet to my faith.”

“Our God acts on behalf of those who seek Him, who wait for Him, who call on His name.”

“God only works with broken utensils.”

“You think you’re worse than King David?”

“Every biblical figure has massive flaws.”

“We need God to do what only God can do.”

“Every moment can be sacred if we allow it to be.”

“The more miracles you identify in your life, the more appreciation of God you’re going to have, and the more grateful you’re going to be.”

“I’m able to give away because I have been given.”

“The most spiritual moments in my life have come from just unexpected encounters with just people who are image-bearers of God.”

“Truth is either a gift or a weapon.”

“I want to be closer to God, you know, and I want to cherish the people around me.”

Habbakuk 3:2

O Lord! I have learned of Your renown; I am awed, O LORD, by Your deeds. Renew them in these years, Oh, make them known in these years! Though angry, may You remember compassion.

https://www.sefaria.org/Habakkuk.3.2?lang=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Pastor Gillis begins the conversation by sharing his summary of the passage and the significance it holds for him, and then launching into an extensive analysis with Mark about the very nature of holiness for both God and ourselves. Along the way, they touch upon the importance of actions and character, how we can be holy, the power and grace of God, and how this passage should change our lives. As the conversation draws to a conclusion, Pastor Gillis shares the lessons he has learned about humankind, which leads to a discussion of those who claim to reject religion and the causes for this. As you will hear, Mark’s esteemed guest here today is a Pastor with intricate knowledge and understanding of scripture whose ‘brilliant insights’ reveal the eternal wisdom and guidance of this powerful passage.

Episode Highlights:

· Pastor Gillis’ summary of today’s passage and its significance for him · The idea of God’s holiness as His essence · Holiness as more than morality · The importance of action and character · How we can be holy · How this passage should change our lives · The power and grace of God · The lessons about humankind that Pastor Gillis has learned · Those who claim to reject religion

Quotes:

“It kind of inspired me to look back into the Torah itself to understand better the idea of holiness.”

“God’s holiness makes a claim on our humanness.”

“Holiness is His essence…it is more essence than it is attribute.”

“Everything you do should be infused with holiness.”

“I think that holiness, by definition, has to be about more than morality.”

“He understands it as being set apart to God to fulfill His purposes with your life.”

“God wants the heart…of course the actions are important, but so is the character.”

“His essence informs and constructs His attributes.”

“The interesting thing about the New Testament is how much Old Testament is quoted in the New Testament, particularly, by the way, when you’re reading Peter.”

“God’s holiness belongs only to Himself, and our holiness is in only belonging to God.”

“Who am I owned by - God or me?”

“That’s a great frame right there - God is not ridiculous.”

“We’re asking for You to give us the grace to be able to fulfill living in such a way that brings You glory.”

“There is a God, and I’m not Him.”

“People oftentimes, who are claiming to be atheists, are so emotionally angry at a God that they say they don’t believe in.”

“Either people have a broken view of God, or a broken view of who they are in God.”

“We have a mission. God has a plan. It’s our job to figure out what our mission is.”

Leviticus 19:1

The LORD spoke to Moses, saying: Speak to the whole Israelite community and say to them: You shall be holy, for I, the LORD your God, am holy.

https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.19.1-2?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Joe starts off by summarizing the passage, sharing why he chose it, and highlighting the notion of accepting blame that is found within it. He then goes on to discuss his experiences with both failure and blame, how self-criticism is needed now more than ever in society, and the discipline and framework that chess has taught him. Joe also offers his advice on what should be passed on to children, the current lack of gratefulness that he observes in his own generation, and the importance of criticism and how it is delivered. He concludes the episode with the lessons he has learned about humankind and his advice for young parents. Joe’s objective observations about his own failures are inspiring, especially considering the vast amount of success he has achieved in his life, and the lessons he derives from this prophetic passage, so very relevant to society today, reinforce yet again the role of the Torah as an eternal guidebook for us all.

Episode Highlights:

· Joe’s summary of the passage and why he chose it · Accepting blame and striving to do better · Joe’s experience with failures and blame · Avoiding Moses’ prophetic warning · Accepting blame in the world these days · What Joe has learned from playing chess · His perspective on the inheritance to pass on to children, and the current lack of gratefulness for American core values among those born in the 80’s and 90’s · The importance of criticism and how it is delivered · The things about humankind that Joe has learned · His message to young parents

Quotes:

“This is the last speech that Moses gives the people before they enter Israel.”

“When things are not going well, I think the first thing you should do is look at what you’ve done, and look at how you could be doing better yourself.”

“The only way you get better is rather than blame everyone around you, you blame yourself.”

“Most of the Torah is essentially reminders.”

“As soon as you start to tell yourself that you’re really good at something, that’s when you stub your toe.”

“When things are going well, become paranoid.”

“Acknowledge your own faults.”

“Whether you win or you lose, the discipline’s the same, right? You’re reviewing to see how you could have done better irrespective of the result.”

“The hardest things we have in life is when you have success, when…life is going really well because…those are the easiest times to forget your values and forget your principles.”

“Grateful am I.”

“Love involves criticism, or else it’s not love.”

“If you have to deliver the rain, deliver it with the dew.”

“People respond better when you actually see their strengths and you actually show confidence in them and believe in them than they do to criticism.”

Deuteronomy 32 - https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.32?lang=en&aliyot=0

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Ron begins the conversation by sharing the story of how he met his wife, before going on to summarize the passage and why it is meaningful to him. He and Mark then provide a thorough analysis of the passage, including how it represents the third round of battle between the Jews and Amalek, and its demonstration of the greatest statement of faith and Esther’s role as a navigator. The relevance of these themes throughout history and modern times are discussed, particularly in the context of Prime Minister Netanyahu's speech to the American Congress and the standing ovation that Esther received there. Their conversation concludes with Ron offering the lessons he has learned about humankind, which leads to a discussion of the need to be able to disagree with others without impugning them and the evolution of the Jewish relationship with the United States. Ron’s thorough grasp not only of scripture, but of history, politics, and diplomacy as well, renders him uniquely qualified in ‘bringing the Bible to modern times’ here today, as he passionately inspires all who listen to recognize and play their role in life, especially as it relates to securing the Jewish future.

Episode Highlights:

· The story of how Ron met his wife · His summary of the selected passage and why it’s meaningful to him · Esther as a talented navigator · The greatest statement of faith · The three rounds of battle between the Jews and Amalek · Esther’s role and intention in saving the Jewish people · The passage’s message to those devoting their life to service · Esther’s standing ovation in the American Congress · Mordecai’s stand against Haman · The impact of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s 2015 speech to the American Congress · Playing our part in securing the Jewish future · The lessons about humankind that Ron has learned · Disagreeing without impugning others · The Jewish relationship with the United States

Quotes:

“My hutzpah is what got me my wife.”

“This, to me, is probably the most famous passage in the Book of Esther.”

“It’s the navigators that actually win.”

“I know the Jews are going to be saved.”

“I see it as a primordial battle between good and evil.”

“In confronting evil, we can’t rely on God – we have to do it ourselves.”

“It’s whether or not Esther will be an instrument in that salvation.”

“I think in life, we’re all put in different places in different times, and we all can have an impact.”

“You have to be a believer that there is a destination towards history.”

“It lights a fire underneath you that you have to do everything you can.”

“Anything that any of us do could reverberate in a way that will be experienced 2500 years from now, and that’s, kind of, the great thing about living in God’s world.”

“She is…one of the ultimate heroines of our people.”

“What I’ve learned over time is the importance of people.”

“Israel’s emergence as a rising power among the nations has started to impact our diplomacy and our relations with different states.”

“The United States and Israel are not just countries, we’re causes.”

“Israel’s strength, bringing along peace because the interests connect.”

“Our interests drive relations with states.”

“Israel’s been in ‘September 12’ for 72 years every day, and that affects it."

Esther 4:14 - https://www.sefaria.org/Esther.4.14?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Heather begins by discussing the vampire novels she has written, as well as sharing her summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for her. She and Mark then embark on an extensive discussion of the notions of justice, mercy, and humility, both in the passage and in society today. Heather also details the pastoral role that a Dean plays, the dangers of arguing through social media, and, as with all guests, she concludes the discussion by offering the lessons she has learned about humankind. In her conversation with Mark today, Heather brings her formidable experience in Law and Education to the analysis of this ‘truly awesome Biblical passage’, rendering its timeless lessons and application to modern times both fascinating and accessible to all.

Episode Highlights: · Heather’s vampire novels · Her summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for her · Pulling mercy and justice closer together in our current legal system · Mark’s hypothetical case study · Knowing when to give justice and when to have mercy · Balancing humility and being a fierce advocate · The Dean’s pastoral role, particularly during the pandemic · Society’s education in humility · Arguing through social media · The lessons that Heather has learned about humankind

Quotes:

“It was the passage we read at our wedding.”

“There is, I think, a question about hewing to the path that you must hew to in order to remain what you are.”

“We should always try to not…judge people by their worst acts.”

“I spent the entire semester telling students to be gentle with each other.”

“But there’s also a difference between pulling someone into the community and that conversation and trying to find change with them versus shunning them and shutting them outside the community.” “I actually think that the whole point of the legal profession is humility.” “I think it’s much harder to be merciful than it is to think that you are doing justice. Showing mercy requires genuine forgiveness, and that’s the hardest thing to do.” “We try to get our students to be righteous, but not self-righteous.” “I do think it’s harder for people to listen to the other side because the politics of the moment are so terrible, and things have become so polarized.”

“That is the sign of a great education, is that it makes you humble about your own views.”

“It’s always the power of the example that they say is able to open other people’s hearts.”

“Never say anything on social media that you wouldn’t say, or perhaps haven’t said first, to another human being.”

“It’s people interpreting the other in the worst possible way.”

“You’ve got to be careful and you’ve got to be generous.”

“When you’re struggling with someone, it’s almost always because something big is going on in their life.”

“When the big thing comes, we come together.”

Micah 6:8 “He has told you, O man, what is good, And what the LORD requires of you: Only to do justice And to love goodness, And to walk modestly with your God;

https://www.sefaria.org/Micah.6.8?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rabbi Berman begins the conversation by sharing his summary of the passage, why it is important for him, and the significance of the use of the word ‘hineni’ in it. He and Mark then examine the resolution of the tension found in Abraham being heneni for God and Isaac, Isaac’s takeaway from this event, and the lesson that The Akedah offers, particularly during the current pandemic. They also discuss the two directions The Akedah gives, Mark’s notion of a hineni for our mission in life, and they conclude with the lessons Rabbi Berman has learned about mankind. As Rabbi Berman notes, we are 'seeking the wisdom of our 3000 year old tradition which is the greatest gift that God has given humanity…enabling a lot of people to find what they seek’.

Episode Highlights:

• · Rabbi Berman’s summary of The Akedah and its importance for him
• · The significance Abraham’s use of the word ‘heneni’ in the passage
• · Resolving the tension of Abraham being heneni for God and for Isaac
• · Isaac’s ‘takeaway’ from this event
• · The lesson of The Akedah and why it is essential throughout time, particularly during the current pandemic
• · The two directions The Akedah gives
• · The third heneni: to our mission
• · The lessons that Rabbi Berman has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“I am here for you.”

“The Torah doesn’t report small talk.”

“He actually can’t be heneni for both of them…but he says he is.”

“Abraham the servant and Abraham the father – they’re both precious to God. And you do not have to sacrifice one for the other – God does not want you to sacrifice.”

“The difference between Judaism and Christianity in this sense is that in our tradition, the son does not die. “

“Isaac was perpetuating the legacy of his father.”

“The Torah speaks so beautifully in its silences, too.”

“Every moment can be a ‘heneni moment’.”

“We go through life, often sleepwalking through life.”

“We must give ourselves with kindness and compassion, be present in their lives in all ways that we can. You know, in this world it could be by Zoom at times.”

“Everyone has a different purpose. Everyone has a different mission. Everyone has different skills and talents.”

“We’re at our best when we are seekers.”

“If you want to be a sage, you have to remain a talmid, you always have to remain a student.”

The Akedah - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.22.1-19?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Harry begins by sharing his summary of the passage, and its meaning for both himself and the Museum. He then describes how the Museum came to be created, the impact it has upon visitors, and its continued operation throughout the current pandemic. The artifacts, their ongoing discovery, and the process of establishing their provenance is discussed as well as the Museum’s extensive American Heritage section. Harry concludes the episode, as all guests do, with the lessons he has learned about humanity. As Mark notes, the work that Harry does through this remarkable Museum is “opening the Bible and opening the hearts of the Bible by making it so interesting and so accessible and so fun” - a noble achievement.

Episode Highlights:

• · Harry’s summary of his selected passage and why it’s meaningful to him
• · The Museum of the Bible and why this passage is important it
• · How the Museum came to be created and its purpose
• · What surprises Harry about people’s responses at the Museum
• · How it is staying open during the current pandemic
• · Bible artifacts and their ongoing discovery
• · What Harry observes in people being introduced to the Bible
• · How the Museum acquires artifacts and establishes their provenance
• · The Museum’s American Heritage section
• · The lessons that Harry has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“That’s a beautiful passage for people of all faiths, but especially the Jewish and Christian faith.”

“It’s the gift that keeps giving.”

“Would you come be a tour guide for us?”

“It’s the book that keeps talking to you.”

“It’s our job to show them the Bible, and encourage them to read the Bible, and give them reasons for that.”

“Archeological discoveries are still finding the Bible to be true and fulfilling the promises that God made to all of us.”

“It makes the Bible come alive when you go to Israel and spend one or two weeks there.”

“We want to tell the stories of how people see the value of the Bible throughout our world.”

“It’s an important part of the nation’s history and, of course, an entire subculture of the United States, and the world now.”

“What I see in mankind is a great ability to make mistakes, and a great ability to forgive themselves and one another.”

“It’s truly the Living Word…it seeks out your soul and just pierces you.”

Psalms 19 - https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.19.1-15?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Michael begins this fascinating conversation with the story behind President Trump’s choice of his favorite Bible verse, and follows with his summary of today’s selected verse and its meaning for him. He and Mark then engage in an extensive analysis of the notion of ‘God passing by’ highlighted by this verse, including a number of examples where God is involved not only in the history of America and Israel, but also in our daily lives. They also discuss the value of seeing the world with ‘radical and perpetual amazement’ before Michael shares the lessons he has learned about humankind, his perspective on what is wrong in America right now, and the importance of acknowledging gratitude. As Mark notes, the Torah’s ‘truths keep coming’, and today they are highlighted through Michael’s gift for effortlessly bringing history to life, rendering this episode yet another clear demonstration of the wisdom of this seminal text and its profound impact upon both historical and present day issues.

Episode Highlights:

• · President Trump’s favorite Bible verse
• · Michael’s summary of the verse and why it’s meaningful for him
• · How this verse relates to Israel’s recent peace agreements
• · God passing by
• · Good advice for statesmen
• · Stories of God’s involvement in the history of America
• · Opening up to the certainty that God is here
• · The story of Michael meeting his wife
• · ‘Radical and perpetual amazement’
• · The lessons Michael has learned about humankind
• · Michael’s perspective on what is so wrong in America right now
• · Acknowledging gratitude

Quotes:

“I think it’s extremely meaningful and relevant for anybody who writes history or cares about history or current events, or trying to discern what God is trying to do in the world.”

“I think that there are lots of us who, at different times of life, want to see God’s face.”

“You will know My presence after I am done with that act. During it, you’re not going to see it.

“It is the job of the statesman to listen for God’s footsteps in history, and when he hears them to grab His coattails and hang on.”

“We don’t really think about God in Heaven.”

“We’re an imperfect nation and we’re an instrument to God because He needs an instrument, and what’s He going to do, choose Belgium?”

“The arc of the universe is long, but it bends toward justice.”

“Washington was actually the indispensable man.”

“And today, with a country of 330 million instead of 2.8 million, the best we can do is Trump and Biden?”

“He had just conquered fear, because his response after this attempt on his life was so remarkable.”

“America is not an accident.”

“I got engaged in 9 weeks – absolutely, you just know.”

“For people who doubt that God is involved in the history of America and the history of Israel, it seems to me that many of those people probably do see God’s hand, at least, in their own marriages.”

“These are all American daily miracles.”

“Nobody achieves anything alone.”

“A great deal depends upon maintaining the right and the positive attitude…especially when trials come, and they come to all of us.”

“You should acknowledge the existence of gratitude before you acknowledge the existence of yourself.”

Exodus 33:18-23 - https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.33.18-23?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

They begin with David describing the origins of Moishe House and the work it continues to do today, and then moving on to summarizing the passage and the reasons why he chose it. He and Mark then explore the lessons the passage teaches, how it is manifest in the world today, and how its wisdom is applicable to Moishe House residents and other young people. As with all guests, David draws the episode to a close by offering the lessons he has learned about mankind. This is a passage whose very theme of continuing to learn and gain wisdom by surrounding yourself with others who will share their ideas and knowledge with you, constitutes a brilliant example of the importance and value of not just this episode, but of the entire Rabbi’s Husband podcast series as a whole.

Episode Highlights:

• Moishe House
• What happens in the passage and why David chose it
• The lessons the passage teaches
• How this passage is manifest in today’s world
• The wisdom of this passage for Moishe House residents and other young people
• The lessons the David has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“In addition to being roommates and having full-time jobs or being in graduate school, they’re turning their homes into community centers.”

“They should be coming to him, because he was the best student.”

“He had forgotten even the simple stuff.”

“It’s that humility to be humble and to be with the people that you surround yourself with, is what matters much more than where you physically are.”

“If you stay on vacation, the life as you know it will disintegrate.”

“It’s actually the work and the stress that is the meaning.”

“It’s who you’re with rather than where you are…it’s a deeply important Jewish teaching.”

“You cannot retire, you must rewire.”

“It’s the atmosphere you create that is paramount to the outcome that you’re going to have much more so than the physical space.”

“It’s more about their practice than it is about their denomination.”

“Maybe the key to happiness is having low expectations.”

“When you give people the opportunity to be really fully responsible for their own success or failure, they will do incredibly well.”

Ecclesiastes Rabbah

Rabbi Yochanan had five disciples, and as long as he lived they sat before him. When he died, they went to Yavneh. Rabbi Elazar ben Arach, however, joined his wife at Dyomset, a place of good water and beautiful scenery. He waited for them to come to him but they didn't. When they didn't come, he wanted to go to them, but his wife did not let him. "Who needs who" she asked. "They need me" he answered. She said to him: "In the case of a food container and mice, does the food go to the mice or do the mice go to the food?" He listened to her, and remained there until he forgot his learning. After a while they came and asked him "Which is better to eat along with a 'relish,' wheat bread or barley bread?" But he couldn't answer.

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

He begins the conversation by summarizing the passage, and sharing why it is meaningful for him. He and Mark then explore the complexities of Abraham’s relationship with God, the promises that God made to Abraham, and the lessons to be learned from the reference to stars in the passage as well as Abraham’s struggle with faith. Elie then explains what this passage has to do with prayer, offers his advice to those who, like Mark, are unable to connect to God through prayer, and reviews Judaism’s emphasis on the communal aspect of prayer. Elie concludes the episode by offering a glimpse into his upcoming book, as well as the lessons he has learned about mankind. As Mark notes, he always learns so much from his conversations with Elie, particularly about the multiple meanings that can come from the same text, and today is your opportunity to do the same during this fascinating and informative examination of this highly important biblical passage.

Episode Highlights:

• Elie’s summary of the passage and why it is meaningful to him
• The complexities of Abraham’s relationship with God in this passage
• God’s promises to Abraham
• Lessons to be learned from the reference to stars in the passage and from Abraham’s struggle with faith
• What this passage has to do with prayer
• Elie’s advice to those who can’t connect with God through prayer
• Judaism’s emphasis on the communal aspect of prayer
• Elie’s new book
• The lessons he has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“It’s a different window into Abraham’s relationship with God that’s actually much more complex than blind faith.”

“It’s not that you’re just going to have one child, you’re going to have so many children, it’s going to be as numerous as the stars in the sky.”

“There can be many truths emanating from the same passage.”

“If you want to find your way in the darkness, you need to use the stars.”

“There’s some connection between stars and angels, you know, the heavenly beings that you see when you look up in the sky.”

“God’s sort of in league with us, providing us some sort of comfort and protection that allows us to express our doubts.”

“I’ve never had a meaningful prayer experience in my life…it’s just never done anything for me, and I’m blaming myself.”

“There’s an artistry to the prayer book itself…it’s really a book of poetry.”

“A lot of prayer is about trying to connect to a God who feels distant.”

“There’s sort of a communal responsibility that gets heightened when you are with other people in a prayer setting.”

“If you will it, it is no dream.”

“Although people present often as cynical, I think, underneath, people are really yearning for deep connection.”

“The secret of the Torah is not that you can begin, but that you can begin again.”

Genesis 15:1-8 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.15.1-8?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Erica begins by sharing her reason for choosing this passage as well as an extensive summary of it, and the significance of Jacob having his name changed within it. She and Mark go on to examine the fact that Jacob continues to be referred to by both names, how that relates to the many identities that each of us hold throughout our lives, and the importance of wrestling a blessing out of a struggle as well as continually wrestling with God. Erica also discusses the lessons she has learned through her deep engagement with Christians over the past two decades that leads to a further discussion about being truly open to the call of God, and walking in His ways. Today’s episode is no less than a contemplation on what it means to be a good Jew, providing further insight into the eternal wisdom and guidance of the greatest book ever written.

Episode Highlights:

• Erica’s reason for selecting this passage
• Her summary of the story
• The significance of Jacob having his name changed
• Jacob being referred to by both names
• The many identities that people have in their lives
• Wrestling a blessing out of a struggle
• Wrestling with God
• The lessons about humankind that Erica has learned over the past 13 years of engaging deeply with Christians
• Being truly open to the call of God
• Walking in God’s ways

Quotes:

“I think it’s really the essence of what it is to be Jewish.”

“I just love that our name is Yisra'el - the people who wrestle with God.”

“A Jew does not leave a struggle without a blessing.”

“This is his moment of transformation.”

“This blessing is that he’s learning to stop running.”

“He got the ultimate blessing – he was able to transform himself.”

“We can transform, we can reach a new stage in our development, but what happened and who we were before is always with us.”

“Everyone has these multiple facets to their personality.”

“We acknowledge the pain that it brings, but we still find a way to also find the blessing.”

“As long as you’re still wrestling, you’re doing the right thing.”

“God loves every argument.”

“We have the inheritance of this mantle that we are to wrestle with God, and that’s what it means to be a good Jew.”

“It’s been a really life-changing experience to get to know Christian medical missionaries who have dedicated their lives to serving the African poor.”

“You can have meaningful holy ground where you overlap with people and can be in service, and it doesn’t mean you have to agree on everything.”

“There are blessings in our everyday life because of the interactions that we come to in the way that we - well, for them, that they bless the Jewish people - but, for me, in the way I can interact with them and also do God’s will.”

“There’s nothing abstract about faith. It’s all very personal and very practical.”

“It’s a blessing to be married to you, and to have such friends that we’ve been able to bring into our home together.”

Genesis 32 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.32.1-33?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Pastor Rodriguez begins by summarizing the selected passage and sharing its meaning, in particular its emphasis upon the four qualities of righteousness, justice, truth and love. He and Mark then engage in an extensive analysis of these four qualities and how they are crucial to addressing so many issues in society, especially these days. They also look at the concepts of reconciling the messages of Billy Graham and Dr. King, the meaning of a beautiful orthodoxy, and the younger generation’s perspective on the four qualities. Pastor Rodriguez concludes their conversation by offering both the lessons he has learned about mankind, and his advice for future generations. In this fascinating discussion, Pastor Samuel Rodriguez reveals the extraordinary lessons and amazing applications of this passage to very real present day challenges, demonstrating yet again the eternal guidance that the Bible so richly provides.

Episode Highlights:

• Pastor Rodriguez’s summary of the passage and what it means to him
• Righteousness, justice, truth and love
• Distinguishing between righteousness and justice
• Mayor La Guardia’s example of righteousness and justice
• Reconciling the messages of Billy Graham and Dr. King
• Applying these four qualities in today’s world
• The heart, the head, and the hand
• Beautiful orthodoxy
• The younger generation’s perspective on these qualities
• The lessons about mankind which Pastor Rodriguez has learned
• His advice for future generations

Quotes:

“If our communities would be built on righteousness and justice, truth and love, we would literally change the world.”

“These are the four qualities that are needed to govern, broadly defined, a complicated society.”

“I believe that biblical antidote is something we should be embracing now.”

“Righteousness is vertical, justice is horizontal.”

“Justice is not a political term to be exploited, it is a prophetic term to be lived out.”

“Justice is just righteousness applied.”

“Right now, I believe there is an assault on truth.”

“I would argue that we’re currently seeing the fulfillment of a Malcolm X movement rather than a Dr. King movement.”

“It is impossible to know God without first going through truth and love.”

“This is what the millennial and younger generation are yearning for.”

“Let’s reintroduce the four concepts that may very well serve as the catalyst for a movement that could transform this broken world.”

“The opposite is anarchy, it is chaos…we are this far away from things breaking out negatively, and we can prevent it by building a firewall of righteousness and justice, truth and love.”

“Over 90% of humanity never gets into the Promised Land.”

“Live a holy, healed, healthy, happy, humble, hungry, honoring life, and with that life you can change the world.”

Psalms 89:15 Righteousness and justice are the base of Your throne; steadfast love and faithfulness stand before You. https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.89.15?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Levi begins the discussion with his summary of the passage, why it is his favorite, and the lesson that God wants us to take away from it. He and Mark then explore many of the concepts which flow out of this rich passage such as biblical humility, challenging God, the nature of truth, and God as King rather than Judge. They also examine the relevance of this passage today, the biblical stories of Jonah, the Flood, and the Tower of Babel, as well as the passage’s perspective on social activism and an approachable God. At the conclusion, Levi shares the lessons about mankind which he has learned which, in turn, lead to a fascinating discussion about pastoring to non-Jews in his role as Air Force chaplain. This conversation, which quickly expands to touch on so many aspects of both the Torah and of society today, demonstrates yet again how ‘one biblical passage can yield so much wisdom’, providing invaluable lessons and guidance for all.

Episode Highlights:

• Levi’s summary of the passage and why it is his favorite verse
• The lesson that God wants us to take away from this verse
• Biblical humility
• Challenging God
• The nature of truth
• The relevance of this passage today
• Levi’s struggle with his faith
• God as King
• The story of Jonah
• Contrasting the story of the Flood and the Tower of Babel
• This passage’s perspective on social activism
• An approachable God
• The lessons Levi has learned about mankind
• Pastoring to non-Jews

Quotes:

“This is a mortal human arrogantly accusing God of evil.”

“Moses is talking about evil done to ‘the other’.”

“Stop thinking about what you need, and think what you’re needed for.”

“He’s very confident, he’s very aware of his great gifts, but always sublimates himself to his principles and thinks very little, if ever, about himself.”

“Whatever God presents to him in that moment, Moses is open to doing what the moment requires.”

“If you’re a guarantor for somebody else, you must be richer than everybody else in something, so go identify what that thing is.”

“One of the great things about Judaism is it’s one long ongoing conversation.”

“There’s only two different types of men in the world – the decent man and the indecent man.”

“Being a person of service, not a servant, but a person of service, opens you up to changing their lives.”

“We’re not satisfied with being an animal…this human condition is constantly striving for more.”

“The uniform unites the people regardless of their diversity, because they’re all a person of service…that creates an interesting safe place – container – for conversations which sometimes I don’t see out in the large public.”

“If you could confess to your friend, or to your spouse, to whoever it is that you trust, and create that space where you could talk about the things that are holding you down…you could become open to your greatness.”

“People come to me as a Chaplain, and a lot of times I’m not even talking about anything to do with religion.”

“It’s the Chaplain’s role, which is a very important role in the military, is the spiritual resiliency that goes into creating a warrior.”

“Be that light to the nations.”

Exodus 5:22 Then Moses returned to the LORD and said, “O Lord, why did You bring harm upon this people? Why did You send me? https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.5.22?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Phyllis begins by sharing her summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for her, which leads to an extensive analysis of the different theories regarding the repetition of the word ‘justice’ within it. Paired with this discussion is their exploration of how this passage resonates with Phyllis’ work with Optimus and the rigorous selection process they use when considering charities and in guiding philanthropists. Woven throughout is the notion that philanthropy done with love will always be the most successful and that the potential exists for actually making situations worse when love and rigor are absent. Phyllis also shares her lessons about mankind which reveal precisely who make up the most generous donors, and she offers details regarding the challenge of having to reject charities for the sake of upholding her organization’s rigorous selection process.

Episode Highlights:

• Phyllis’ summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for her
• The different theories on why the word ‘justice’ is mentioned twice
• How this passage resonates with Phyllis’ work at Optimus
• Rigor in forming philanthropic decisions
• ‘Spray and pray’
• How Optimus educates and guides philanthropists
• Phyllis’ example of philanthropy which actually made a situation far worse
• The dangers of a ‘the one with the pesos has the say-so’s’ attitude in philanthropy
• The rigor that Optimus applies when approving charities
• Doing philanthropy with love
• The lessons about mankind that Phyllis has learned
• The most generous donors
• The challenge of rejecting charities for the sake of upholding their rigorous process

Quotes:

“This absolutely applies to social justice.”

“The Torah, as we know, is an incredibly concise document. Every single word counts in the Torah.”

“We say it twice because it is so damned important.”

“We should expect there to be justice, but…don’t count on it. It is up to each and every one of us to make sure that we live our lives justly, but that we also call out injustices wherever we see them. And we have an obligation to do this.

“Your means have to be just and your ends have to be just. And it’s not one or the other, it’s both.”

“We see it right now…how this pandemic has really underscored some great injustices.”

“The work of a good person is never done.”

“No one ever started a successful business by not talking to the customers.”

“It’s actually sort of an arrogant sense of superiority, you know, which is the ultimate injustice.”

“It matters that we’re trying to do the absolute best thing that we can with your money because we have an obligation to do that, and that is the just thing to do.”

“When one does philanthropy with love, they’re going to welcome the rigor that you apply.”

“It’s the love of God that inspires so much of this kind of giving.”

“Generosity comes in incredible ways.”

“We’re not here simply to help you, we’re here to catalyze the work that you’re doing so that we can bring our other wealthy clients on board to help solve this problem.”

Deuteronomy 16:20 Justice, justice shall you pursue, that you may thrive and occupy the land that the LORD your God is giving you. https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.16.20?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation begins with Bret sharing the story behind being cited in Leon Kass’ book about Genesis, and his extensive summary of the selected text. Throughout this summary, he and Mark demonstrate how the passage presents the foundation of a Jewish philosophy of a just war and international engagement, discuss a selection of applicable analogies, explore its moral and geopolitical purpose, and review Abram’s declaration of independence. The episode concludes with Bret explaining the argument the passage makes against Jewish pacifism and for the moral use of power, and then offering the lessons he has learned about mankind. As Bret states, this text ‘is telling us things that are relevant…to our ideas about what politics and foreign policy ought to be about, and why it’s useful to have a foreign policy that is rooted in a moral concept rather than in a material one’ – a ‘continuing and eternal implication’ that is of paramount importance throughout the country and, indeed, the world, these days.

Episode Highlights:

• The story behind Bret being cited in Leon Kass’ book on Genesis
• Bret’s summary of the text and its context
• How it presents the foundation of a Jewish philosophy of a just war and international engagement
• Analogies with the raid on Entebbe, the 1967 war, and Woodrow Wilson entering WWI
• The moral and geopolitical purposes of this passage
• Abram’s declaration of independence
• The passage as an argument against Jewish pacifism and an argument for prudence and the moral use of power
• The lessons Bret has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“I am to Torah scholarship what John Belushi was to sobriety.”

“It is among the most political of chapters in Genesis.”

“That’s probably my proudest boast intellectually, that Leon Kass cited something I had written as an undergraduate.”

“This is really the story of the genesis…of a Jewish concept of foreign policy, a Jewish concept of a just war.”

“The is the first time the word Hebrew is used in the Bible.”

“There is politics taking place, and there is a strategic quandary, and there’s also a moral quandary, and Abram has to think about how he resolves this.”

“It’s not exactly the raid on Entebbe, but it’s close.”

“This is an extraordinary victory against overwhelming odds, prefiguring…so many of Israel’s wars.”

“Abram is mentored and learns about God from a gentile.”

Genesis 14 https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.14?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Marco begins their discussion by sharing his summary of the passage, his reasons for selecting it, and examining some of the key words from it as well as their translation. He and Mark then explore the themes within the passage such as trusting and leaning on the Lord and rationalization and accountability, and how these themes are experienced in society today. They also look at the difference between human and Godly understanding, the differing attitudes towards those with greater responsibility in our world, and the foundation the Bible provides for current laws and policies. Marco concludes the discussion by offering his practical advice derived from the passage, the ways in which he and his colleagues enhance their understanding of the Bible, and the lessons he has learned about mankind. As Mark states, in today’s episode, Marco shares ‘so many enduring observations…from four lines of a magnificent proverb’, and together they surface its many lessons and practical applications.

Episode Highlights:

• Marco’s summary of the passage and his reasons for selecting it
• Some of the key words of the passage and their translation
• Trusting and leaning on the Lord
• Rationalizations and accountability
• Marco’s perspective on accountability in the Senate
• The difference between human and Godly understanding
• The differing attitudes people have towards those with greater responsibility
• Marco’s practical advice derived from this passage
• The foundation the Bible provides for our current laws and policies
• How Marco and his colleagues enhance their understanding of the Bible
• The lessons about mankind that Marco has learned

Quotes:

“Just be able to speak knowledgeably about any topic for four minutes and you’ll fool them all.”

“I think it’s the first lesson of Judaism, and obviously it becomes the first lesson of Christianity.”

“If you go through the Ten Commandments as they were handed down, why would you believe any of them if you don’t trust in the source of those commandments?”

“It’s a guide book from the manufacturer.”

“Don’t lean on your own understanding, because you’re going to fool yourself if you give yourself the chance. Instead, trust in the Lord with all your heart.”

“Time and again, no matter how much the Lord has proven Himself, we constantly find reason to doubt that He’ll do it again.”

“Very few bad people actually think they’re bad people…they just think of these fantastic justifications to do what they really should know is bad.”

“If you have to sneak it in, then that means there’s something wrong with it.”

“You can’t apply something you don’t understand.”

“We live in the world of the Bible.”

“What we all have in common is that we have something special about us…and…everyone wants to matter.”

“Identify the gift that God has given you, and apply it to something meaningful.”

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And do not rely on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths smooth. https://www.sefaria.org/Proverbs.3.5-6?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Jim starts the conversation by summarizing the passage, its significance for him, and then he and Mark explore some differing interpretations of Moses’ marriage to a Cushite woman. They also discuss lessons about engaging in lashon hara, the difference between gossiping and rebuking that the text teaches, and the relevance of the entire text for today’s criminal justice system. Jim offers the lessons he has learned about mankind, including the hope to be found in the fact that God entrusts us with the law, the original sin of America, and what he has learned from his interracial marriage.

Episode Highlights:

• Jim’s summary of the text and its significance for him
• Differing interpretations of the critique of Moses’s marriage to a Cushite woman
• Miriam and Aaron’s failure of lashon hara and Miriam’s punishment
• The difference between rebuking and gossiping
• The Jewish definition of humility
• Moses’ defense of Miriam against God
• The relevance of this text for today’s criminal justice system
• The lessons about mankind that Jim has learned
• The hope to be found in God entrusting us with the law
• What Jim has learned from being in an interracial marriage
• The original sin of America

Quotes:

“A challenge, to some degree, of Moses’ authority.”

“He married an outsider.”

“The gematria for ‘Cushite’ and the gematria for ‘beautiful of appearance’ is the same, 736. So, the biblical author…is clearly associating Cushite with beautiful appearance.”

“They speak out about Moses behind his back…they’re gossiping about Moses which is a great Jewish sin.”

“It’s in their failure to address Moses directly, it’s in their failure to rebuke him in a way that he can learn from, that they failed and they are punished.”

“The Bible is insistent on rebuking.”

“This is the, kind of, canonical, biblical expression of lashon hara, of gossiping.”

“Here you see Moses challenging God.”

“There’s no distinction in the Bible between a sin against God and a sin against another person. A sin against a person is a sin against God.”

“Man is fundamentally good, but man is also fundamentally fallen and…I think our law embodies that.”

Numbers 12 - https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.12?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The episode begins with an acknowledgment of Israel’s recent peace agreements in the Middle East, the hacking of Michael’s Facebook page, and his overview of his collection of short stories in The Night Archer. The remainder of the podcast is devoted to a series of questions for Michael supplied by a number of contributors regarding his book, writing, and Israel. Providing in-depth and extensive responses, Michael shares summaries of some of his stories, what inspired them, his writing process and discipline, his editing process, how writing the book has changed him, and his hopes for it in the future. He also reflects upon the difference of writing fiction as opposed to history, giving up his American citizenship, the nature of heroism, the Jewish nature of his book, inspiring the love of Israel in young people, and gratitude. As Mark notes, The Night Archer is a ’really beautiful book’ whose 51 short stories reveal so much about their author. You will most assuredly enjoy today’s very special edition of The Rabbi’s Husband as it introduces you to the unique opportunity of glimpsing the soul of this undeniably accomplished and evolving man of action.

Quotes:

“Grateful for this moment to be alive. This moment in Jewish history - it’s very special.”

“I decided to write 51 stories that are completely different – every one.”

“I want to be able to say something in each story that is essential about the human condition.”

“Every single story…is a revelation for me.”

“I have no memory of writing any of these stories, because it’s a spiritual experience, and it’s a meditative experience.”

“What’s in this book is me, the central part of me, and the people who read it…I will be inviting into my soul.”

“History writing, when it’s at its best…reads like a novel.”

“Right now, I look at what’s going on in America, and it’s heartbreaking to me.”

“I believe that America is for humanity a last best hope…the noblest experiment that modernity has produced.”

“Short stories are singularly Jewish.”

“Freedom is a hallowed Jewish concept.”

“We celebrate the holiday of freedom by having extra restrictions put on us…it’s the paradox of Jewish freedom.”

“I have to say in 3 pages what a novelist says in 300.”

“Being free incurs responsibility.”

“We have the ineffable privilege to be alive at a time in Jewish history where Jews have the ability to screw up in a sovereign, free environment.”

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Night Archer: https://michaeloren.com/new-book

Jonathan begins the conversation with his summary of the passage, its meaning for him, and his perspective on the ten tests mentioned within it. He and Mark also discuss the most important event from the passage, the consequences for slandering the land of Israel, women as the great Zionists, and the choice between serving Pharaoh or serving God. Jonathan also offers a glimpse into his new book and its exploration of the concept of ‘tikkun olam’, and he draws the conversation to a close with the lessons he has learned about mankind which hold particular relevance for the world today. This is a discussion which touches upon the very nature of the Torah and Judaism.

Episode Highlights:

• Jonathan’s summary of the passage and what it means to him
• His perspective on the ten tests
• The most important event
• Slandering the land of Israel and the punishment for it
• Women as the great Zionists
• The choice between serving Pharaoh or serving God
• Jonathan’s new book and its exploration of ‘tikkun olam’
• The lessons about mankind that Jonathan has learned
• Finding the truth in what others are saying

Quotes:

“Clearly, at a basic level, the test of the spies is somehow the culmination.”

“The entire point of this whole exercise, from Exodus on, was to create a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation in the Promised Land. And God said, ‘Now, go do it’, and they totally blow it.”

“If you don’t have the courage and the strength to follow God’s directive…how are you going to do in the Promised Land? Not very well, so therefore God says, ‘It’s the next generation’.”

“If Moses had sent women, there would have been a different result…the great Zionists are usually the women.”

“Judaism makes no sense without Israel.”

“I’m going to make my relationship with the next generation.”

“You have a choice basically, you can be servants to Pharaoh and to the hubris of man, and a life with no meaning, or you can, in the Jewish world view, or the biblical world view, you can serve God instead and have a life with meaning, and that service…has to take place in the land of Israel. That is the whole point.”

“There is no basis for that contention that this understanding of tikkun olam as social justice has no basis in traditional Judaism.”

“Tikkun olam doesn’t appear a single time in the Bible, which is extraordinary.”

“Theologically, ultimately in the world view of Judaism, Judaism is meant to be done in the land of Israel.”

“I think it’s important that we all try to get out of our rigidity a bit and try to learn what there is to learn from the ‘others’.”

Numbers 14:22 none of the men who have seen My Presence and the signs that I have performed in Egypt and in the wilderness, and who have tried Me these many times and have disobeyed Me, https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.14.22?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The conversation begins with Gil sharing his summary of the passage, the meaning it holds for him, and his ‘Oreo’ analogy regarding Judaism, which is woven throughout the episode. He and Mark discuss the application of the ‘law of first mention’ within the passage, the multiple Jewish identities, and the importance of the trilogy of peoplehood, religion, and land. Gil goes on to explain the need to be both a good nationalist and a good universalist, his definition of ‘Pilates Judaism’, and the notions of mission and ‘going’ which the Bible presents. He concludes the episode with some details regarding his new book and the lessons he has learned about mankind, highlighting their connection to the theme of today’s passage. A skilled educator, Gil’s ability to take his remarkably enlightening analysis and render it thoroughly accessible and entertaining is on full display here today, bringing out so much meaning and so much relevance to our contemporary lives from this magnificent passage.

Episode Highlights:

• Gil’s summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for him
• His ‘Oreo’ analogy regarding Judaism
• ‘Law of first mention’ within the passage
• The multiple Jewish identities
• Peoplehood, religion, and land
• Being a good nationalist and a good universalist
• ‘Pilates Judaism’
• A sense of mission
• The notion of going, where to go and why to go
• The book that Gil wrote with Natan Sharansky, Never Alone: Prison, Politics, and My People
• The lessons that he has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“For me, it’s the moment when the Jewish people are born.”

“The Jewish people are both a nation and a religion.”

“You know you’re a part of this people, you’re never alone.”

“In that passage, we have Zionism, we have Jewish religiosity, we have Jewish peoplehood.”

“This passage invites us into that wonderful muddled middle.”

“Once you realize that you can achieve something great for God, and derivatively for yourself, you can do anything.”

“What the Bible brings us to is a sense of forward looking…we have a sense of mission.”

“We need a nationalism that isn’t about building walls, but is about…how to use our…religion and our nation to make ourselves better, and to make the world a better place.”

“We can…stand up for ourselves, but also we can help others…it’s not a false choice.”

“We humans have a remarkable capacity to endure, and I think this is an important message right now during this ongoing and seemingly never-ending crisis, and through that endurance, not just survive, but thrive and do good.”

Genesis 12:1-3 The LORD said to Abram, “Go forth from your native land and from your father’s house to the land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, And I will bless you; I will make your name great, And you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you And curse him that curses you; And all the families of the earth Shall bless themselves by you.” https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.12.1-3?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation begins with Rick explaining the passage, its context, and its meaning for him. He and Mark then discuss the themes of God looking into one’s heart and seeing potential, often in the least likely person. They also discuss how David will be defined, Rick’s perspective on the meaningful properties of music, and his remarkable experience with David Van Koevering. Rick also shares his analysis of Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’, the meaning for him of his trip to Jerusalem with Eagles’ Wings, and, of course, the lessons regarding mankind which he has learned. Rick’s abundant knowledge of both scripture and music render him particularly qualified to analyze today’s passage, and you will discover that his unique insights here today are as fascinating as they are informative.

Episode Highlights:

• Rick’s explanation of the passage, its context, and its meaning for him
• God looking into the heart
• God seeing potential
• How David will be defined
• Rick’s perspective on the meaningful properties of music
• The genius of God behind music
• Rick’s experience with David Van Koevering
• Rick’s analysis of the opening lyrics to Leonard Cohen’s ‘Hallelujah’ and David’s ‘secret chord’
• What Rick’s trip to Jerusalem meant to him as a Christian music leader
• The lessons about mankind that Rick has learned

Quotes:

“You cannot disciple a culture that has already discipled you.”

“God is actually looking supremely at the heart posture of humanity.”

“I believe that God…sees us at our whole potential.”

“Because I was faithful with little, I will be powerful with much.”

“What God sees in David is a young man committed to growth, committed to improvement.”

“I feel like music and singing is so powerful because it is a way to gigantically amplify the expression of a person’s heart, whether that’s for good or for evil.”

“Music touches every single part of who a human is.”

“God himself is a singer.”

“I think one of the things that we’re learning in the 21st Century is proving the truths that the biblical author knew.”

“It is actually one of the most life-changing trips that I have ever experienced.”

“Mankind deeply needs God.”

“The potential of mankind is absolutely limitless.”

1 Samuel 16:7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Pay no attention to his appearance or his stature, for I have rejected him. For not as man sees [does the LORD see]; man sees only what is visible, but the LORD sees into the heart.” https://www.sefaria.org/I_Samuel.16.7?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Zachary begins by confirming his summary of the passage, which leads to a thorough discussion of its relevance to the current situation within the world, and the lessons it can teach everyone in this regard. He and Mark review these lessons intently by looking at the preparation for the pandemic, the human tendency to extrapolate the present to the future, the power of optimism as opposed to the paralytic effect of fear, and just how people should be acting during this crisis. Zachary wraps the episode up with his perspective on historical analogs to the current situation, and the lessons he has learned about mankind particularly as they relate to the topics discussed here today. As Zachary states, ‘biblical texts remain resonant’, and the many lessons that he draws from today’s passage are directly applicable to precisely what everyone in the world is experiencing at this very moment – yet another profound example of the Torah’s eternal gift of guidance.

Episode Highlights:

• Zachary’s summary of the passage and its economic lessons for all of us
• How these lessons relate to current circumstances in the US and other parts of the world
• Preparation for the pandemic
• The human tendency to extrapolate the present to be the future
• Hoping for a better future and the pushback it currently generates
• The paralytic effect of fear
• How we should be acting in this pandemic
• Shifting the conversation to ‘What do we do to live in the face of a threat?’
• Zachary’s perspective on historical analogs to the current situation
• The lessons Zachary has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“That seemed apropos our current weird, weird national and global moment.”

“The time to manage a famine is before and not during.”

“We had a lot of plans on paper, but that didn’t mean that anyone was able to execute them.”

“It was the same push toward more revenue regardless of whether it was a private or public system.”

“Six months ago no one could imagine this was going to happen. And six months later, we have a failure of imagination for this no longer being the dominant reality of all of our lives…it saps people’s energy.”

“You’re not honoring my suffering.”

“Literally, life will go on.”

“I call your optimism a deeply rigorous optimism.”

“In the midst of a storm it’s very hard to take measured steps to build shelter – that’s the world we’re in right now.”

“It is incumbent upon all of us to try to be less scared.”

“We should be aware of the fact that part of what is going on is that we are less resilient in the face of death.”

“The reason why biblical texts remain resonant, is that, while there’s been massive structural change in how humanity lives, I don’t know that there’s been massive emotional change in how humanity is.”

Genesis 41:46-53 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.41.46-53?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Tali begins by sharing her summary of the selected text, the meaning it holds for her, and the rhythm and surprise that she finds within it. Together, she and Mark analyze the notion of going beyond or inside the letter of the law, as well as their differing readings of the text. This leads them to explore the learning and use of prosecutorial discretion, the lessons to be learned through visiting jails and prisons, and the human capacity for change. Tali draws their conversation to a close by recounting the lessons she has learned about mankind, and how they relate directly back to today’s selected text. Tali’s vast experience as a prosecutor and a professor combine strikingly here today as she shares her remarkable insights while drawing out both the questions and lessons inherent to this ‘awesome rabbinic passage’, and their very real and highly impactful application in our world today.

Quotes:

“They upheld the law rather than doing this thing of going beyond it or inside of it.”

“The passage you chose says we’re following Torah laws, therefore the worst thing happened.”

“This is my life’s work…to practice law enforcement in a way that is fair and just which is what I think this Talmudic text is trying to nudge us toward understanding.”

“Maybe what it means to go inside or beyond the letter of the law is to bring the learning from those acts of meeting people at their most vulnerable into law enforcement. And maybe that’s the source of knowing…when to pursue, when not to pursue - how to indict a case not just based on the facts but on your sense of justice.”

“There’s no way that even the author of the Torah, which is the greatest book ever written beyond compare, could anticipate every circumstance where law would have to be applied.”

“In the best interpretation of your tradition, develop your character…and in so doing, you will learn when and how to exercise prosecutorial discretion, among many other things.”

“I’m making a point about what happens in these acts, and in these human encounters of the kind that our text is urging us to make before we get into the business of law enforcement.”

“There’s a whole other way of learning that is demanded of us.”

“Study leads to action.”

“None of us should be defined by the very worst thing that we’ve done, or the very worst thing that we’ve experienced.”

“I’ve learned about people’s capacity for change and for complexity, and I believe in that very much.”

“New York needs you and wants you.”

Bava Metzia 30b - https://www.sefaria.org/Bava_Metzia.30b?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation starts off with Rick offering his summary of his chosen passage, the Talmud’s answer to doing righteousness ‘at all times’, and how he has fulfilled this responsibility throughout his life and work. Rick also shares his experience of blessing and happiness in his life, a detailed account of his first two adopted children and their journey to receive the surgery they so badly needed, and his account of the ‘fax’ that God sent him. Much of the podcast showcases some of Rick’s extensive examples of living out Deuteronomy 4:6, the happiness he finds in his work, and his startling stories of those moments when God has arranged things amazingly in his life. As with all guests, Rick brings this lively discussion to a close by recounting the lessons about mankind which he has learned - lessons which are illuminated in so many of the stories he shares here today. Dr. Rick Hodes is a man whose devotion to relieving the suffering of some of the most vulnerable in our world clearly renders him, as Mark notes, ‘reason enough to be proud to be a Jew’.

Quotes:

“By raising an orphan 24 hours a day, you are doing righteousness all the time.”

“I know that I am personally making a difference in the world and that’s just the greatest feeling in the world.”

“I’m offering you a chance to help these boys. Don’t say ‘No’.”

“You’re a Jew and she’s a Jew. That’s all you needed.”

“What kind of Ambassador gives you clothes from her own kids?”

“In America, doctors are afraid to pray with their patients, and in Ethiopia, patients like to pray.”

“We all believe in God, and we all want what’s best for the kids. So, just take a moment, speak to the Almighty from your heart, and ask Him for success.”

“In her mind, when she thinks of Jews, when she thinks of Israel, she thinks about her healthy kid and it puts a completely different picture on everything.”

“The Jewish people were asked by God to be an example to the world of three things: honesty, morality, and kindness.”

“Sometimes God just arranges things in the most amazing ways.”

“Happiness comes from inside.”

“The amount of good that can be done with a financial donation to support Rick’s work through the Joint is astonishing. It’s the best ROI there is.”

“Thank God for steering this young man to you.”

Psalms 106:3 - https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.106.3?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Deuteronomy 4:6 - https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.4.6?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rick’s homepage: https://rickhodes.org/

Their conversation is a dynamic and thought provoking one that embodies the nature of the book they have chosen. While exploring the complexity of the text, they share questions and interpretations regarding it, delving into such aspects as the prevalence of animals within it, its lessons regarding repentance, its differing meaning for Christians and Jews, and the potential content of a fifth chapter. AJ and Marc share the lessons they have learned about mankind which also relate directly to the Book of Jonah, and they offer a preview of their new book, particularly its demonstration of the differences between Christian and Jewish readings and approaches to biblical texts as well as the mutual respect that can grow out of these differences. Together with Mark, these two learned scholars bring out so many of the ‘endlessly profound lessons and teachings both for children and adults that this great book offers’, rendering this a thoroughly fascinating and informative episode.

Episode Highlights:

• AJ and Marc’s summary of the Book and its meaning for them and all of us
• The difference in the way Jews and Christians read the story
• The original short story
• The prevalence of animals in the story
• The complex theology of the story
• What makes this story so complicated
• Questions the book raises for children and adults
• What makes some Biblical books so great
• The meaning of Jonah’s story for Christians
• The book’s question about repentance
• Creating a Jonah Chapter 5
• The lessons AJ and Marc have learned about mankind
• Their new book, The Bible With and Without Jesus: How Jews and Christians Read the Same Stories Differently
• The differences between Jewish and Christian approaches to biblical readings

Quotes:

“This is a book about care, it’s a book about divine care.”

“Part of the Jewish reception history which recognizes the story is a profound meditation on issues of repentance and responsibility, and at the same time it’s rollickingly funny.” “Although the book itself is fictional, there was a real prophet named Jonah.”

“You can have more than one reading and they can both be right.”

“Jonah may be interested in preserving his people. He’s also just a remarkably whiny, passive-aggressive, self-centered puppet who may want to see this destruction because it makes him look like a great prophet who got it right.”

“It’s big, it’s big, it’s big!”

“God usually gets a pass on things, right?”

“His passive-aggressive arguments don’t seem to work.”

“What is the responsibility for having done evil if you repent of your ways?”

“I think that humanity has an infinite imagination.”

“There are many different ways of reading the same text, and really can learn to respect each other through the same text even read differently.”

“The Jewish tradition will always say, ‘But what does this text mean to me?’”

Book of Jonah - https://www.sefaria.org/Jonah.1.1-4.11?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Jewish Annotated New Testament: https://www.amazon.com/Jewish-Annotated-New-Testament/dp/0195297709

Eli begins by sharing the only thing he actually remembers from his bar mitzvah, his passion in life, and what it feels like to save a life. He provides examples from his life of doing more than the minimum expected, setting the example for others, and the essence of the Torah. He and Mark reflect upon Mark’s son’s joy in partnering to help save lives, their experience with volunteers and donors, and what bothered Eli the most when he was severely ill recently. Eli finishes by sharing the lessons he has learned about mankind that relate directly to the theme of today’s passage and the Jewish calling to which he has so passionately dedicated himself – choosing life. As you listen to his story here today, you will undoubtedly come to share the immense amount of admiration and respect which Mark holds for this remarkable individual and his devotion to bringing the very essence of the Torah to life.

Episode Highlights:

• The only thing Eli actually remembers from his bar mitzvah
• Eli’s passion in life
• Choosing life
• The feeling of saving a life
• Examples from his life of ‘doing a lot more than just the minimum’
• Setting the example for others
• The essence of the whole Torah
• Mark’s son’s joy in partnering to save lives
• Eli’s perspective on volunteers and donors
• The most generous donors
• What most bothered Eli during his COVID-19 illness
• The Jewish tradition of wanting to do more
• The lessons about mankind that Eli has learned

Quotes:

“My passion was always, always, always saving lives.”

“As a child, I saw that bomb attack on a bus in Jerusalem and I saw people get killed and get hurt.”

“It really shaped my life, the way I am now.”

“When you make that choice, you will end up choosing life in a more fuller and deeper way than you could ever have done if you were commanded to do it.”

“You realize how much giving gives you.”

“You ‘re the most generous person in the world, probably.”

“I think that I could always do a little more.”

“The greatest Jewish contribution to humanity is dissatisfaction.”

“The Jewish people always choose life, and not choose death…we always look at the bright side of a thing, let’s go forward to helping other people.”

“I feel like every human being becomes a much happier person when he gives to others.”

“If you want to be happy, make someone else happy.”

“That’s what we live for. We live for doing happiness for other people for saving other people for helping other people. And that is what comes back to us right away.”

Deuteronomy 30:19 I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day: I have put before you life and death, blessing and curse. Choose life—if you and your offspring would live— https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.30.19?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

They begin their conversation by discussing both the movie and Lance’s work in Liberia before Lance shares his summary of today’s passage and its importance for him. They also engage in a fascinating discussion of their differing interpretations of one part of the passage, and Mark identifies another part that reminds him of Lance and his work. Lance shares his calling to do God’s work on Earth, the common feeling of being inadequate to do God’s work, his ability to overcome fear, and the lessons he has learned about mankind. As this episode makes crystal clear, Dr. Lance Plyler is a devout Christian medical missionary whose selfless work, at great physical risk to himself, brings today’s passage to vivid life.

Episode Highlights:

• Facing Darkness and Lance’s story of his time in Liberia
• Lance’s summary of the passage and its importance for him
• Differing interpretations of the symbolism of the angels’ ability to fly
• The part of the passage which reminds Mark of Lance
• Lance’s calling to do God’s work on Earth
• Feeling inadequate to do God’s work
• Overcoming fear
• The lessons about mankind that Lance has learned

Quotes:

“God makes an appearance in the film.”

“It was the hand of God…miracle after miracle after miracle.”

“Basically it’s a commissioning of the prophet Isaiah to do the work for the…people of Israel.”

“It’s a recognition of the holiness of God and our iniquity.”

“If we want to be Godly, we do His work on Earth.”

“He calls us to go forward into the loneliest places, the darkest places.”

“Isaiah enthusiastically embraces the call.”

“There’s great rationale, great reason, why we’re not qualified to do God’s work.”

“Throughout the Bible, God uses the weak to do the mighty.”

“True courage is stepping forward in the face of fear.”

“My hope is in my faith.”

Isaiah 6:1-7 In the year that King Uzziah died, I beheld my Lord seated on a high and lofty throne; and the skirts of His robe filled the Temple. Seraphs stood in attendance on Him. Each of them had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his legs, and with two he would fly. And one would call to the other, “Holy, holy, holy! The LORD of Hosts! His presence fills all the earth!” The doorposts would shake at the sound of the one who called, and the House kept filling with smoke. I cried, “Woe is me; I am lost! For I am a man of unclean lips And I live among a people Of unclean lips; Yet my own eyes have beheld The King LORD of Hosts.” Then one of the seraphs flew over to me with a live coal, which he had taken from the altar with a pair of tongs. He touched it to my lips and declared, “Now that this has touched your lips, Your guilt shall depart And your sin be purged away.” https://www.sefaria.org/Isaiah.6.1-7?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rabbi Pesner begins the conversation by summarizing the passage and sharing its importance for him as well as the reason why he feels this passage is ‘all about’ Mark. Together, they then explore the theme of love and, particularly, loving the stranger, which is prevalent in this passage, and which has very real applications in today’s society. Bryan Stevenson’s Just Mercy, the Rabbi’s graphic and emotional example of ‘the ultimate act of grace’, the notion of the Torah as a radical document, and the attitude toward ‘the stranger’ in the current climate, are all discussed in the context of this theme of love. The lessons Rabbi Pesner has learned about mankind, including the impact of modeling and practicing love, and the complexity of humanity, draw this fascinating conversation to a close.

Episode Highlights:

• Rabbi Pesner’s summary of the passage and its significance for him
• Why he feels this passage is ‘all about’ Mark
• Running towards empathy
• Love in the Jewish context
• How to ‘love the stranger’
• Bryan Stevenson’s Just Mercy
• Rabbi Pesner’s example of ‘the ultimate act of grace’
• The Torah as a radical document
• Attitudes toward the ‘stranger’ in the current climate
• The lessons about mankind which Rabbi Pesner has learned
• The impact of modeling and practicing love
• The complexity of humanity

Quotes:

“So many people’s lives have been made better because of your philanthropic investments and the things you care about…this Torah portion sings your song.”

“You too must love the stranger because you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”

“Having had that experience of love with our Creator, that becomes the template of all relationships with all humans.”

“Devote your entire life to a journey of exploration and learning.”

“You surround yourself by people who think differently than you, and want to learn from them and hear from them, and I think that’s a guide for all of us.”

“Much of what being moral is, is overcoming what’s natural, and doing what’s right.”

“It’s not enough just to express a love for the deity, for God, for Jesus, it’s about your deeds demonstrating that love.”

“Feelings follow actions.”

“You will get ‘Messiahness’ by behaving in such a way that embodies ‘Messiahness’.”

“I just want to know the human at the other end of this relationship and understand who they are and why they feel what they feel and make space for love to come into that.”

Deuteronomy 10:18-19 but upholds the cause of the fatherless and the widow, and befriends the stranger, providing him with food and clothing.— You too must befriend the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.10.18-19?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

David begins by sharing his summary of the passage, the meaning it holds for him, and the lessons he finds within it. Together, he and Mark explore what makes the Torah so wonderful, the nature of prayer, and God’s subtle presence in our lives and the ways in which we can hear Him. They also discuss the evidence and power of ‘Elijah moments’ in our lives, including David’s particularly touching example, and their conversation concludes, as do all our episodes, with our guest sharing the lessons he has learned about mankind. As Mark states, David engages in a magnificent and instructive conversation here today as he shares his own insights and wisdom regarding the Torah, and just how pertinent its lessons are in our lives today.

Episode Highlights:

• David’s summary of the passage and why it’s meaningful for him
• The lessons he finds in the passage
• What makes the Torah so wonderful
• The nature of prayer
• God’s subtle presence in our lives and how to hear Him
• ‘Elijah moments’ in our lives
• The lessons that David has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“You’re not allowed to go off on a mountain and criticize people. You have to go back, and you have to be involved and you have to be there.”

“God operates from within you.”

“That’s the God that I understand who gives us the chance to hear, but also the chance to ignore.”

“I feel that this could be in some ways the sort of paradigmatic example of what the Torah tells us about how God works…in our own day.”

“If God is not ignorable, then there is no merit in paying attention to God.”

“The whole virtue of living a good life is the living of it.”

‘”Sometimes the ‘doing’ of it tells you what you need to hear.”

“Imagine how one’s life would be transformed if you actually woke up in the morning and said, ‘I could have ten Elijah moments today’.”

“It’s a very counter narrative to what we see going on around us.”

“You don’t change the people on the other side by yelling at them. You change the people on the other side by accepting them, understanding them, and talking to them, and trying to get them to understand your own point of view.”

“If you pray properly, you’re pulling yourself closer to God.”

“Returning to the tradition and something solid and something stable over and over again is intended in part to act almost as…tuning the instrument.”

1 Kings 19:11-13 “Come out,” He called, “and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And lo, the LORD passed by. There was a great and mighty wind, splitting mountains and shattering rocks by the power of the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind—an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake—fire; but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire—a soft murmuring sound. When Elijah heard it, he wrapped his mantle about his face and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. Then a voice addressed him: “Why are you here, Elijah?” https://www.sefaria.org/I_Kings.19.11-13?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

He begins their conversation by sharing his summary of the chapter, its significance for him, and the lessons regarding imagination, seeing possibilities, and self-perception which the Torah teaches. Mark points out the irony to be found within the chapter, and together he and the Pastor explore the power both of our attitude toward challenges in our lives, and of Jews and Gentiles working together. They also discuss the notion of the ‘big vision’ and ‘daily vision’ that God gives us, and Pastor Seabright details his greatest hope and the reasons behind his love of the Shabbat dinner. Before concluding the episode with the lessons he has learned about mankind, Pastor Seabright provides a description of his Revival City Church, and the freedom afforded those who attend to respond to being ‘locked into the Lord’ in the manner that they choose. As you listen to this discussion today, you will be struck by the exuberance that Pastor Seabright brings to living out the lesson of this chosen chapter as he truly sees the possibilities that God has provided for him, and faithfully turns so many of life’s mountains into stepping stones.

Episode Highlights:

• Pastor Searight’s summary of the passage and its significance for him
• The Torah’s lessons on using imagination to see possibilities and self-perception
• The irony of this story
• The power of our own attitude toward challenges in our lives
• Jews and Gentiles working together
• God’s gift of ‘big vision’ and ‘daily vision’ for all of us
• Pastor’s Searight’s greatest hope
• His love of the Shabbat dinner
• The freedom of Pastor Seabright’s church and being ‘locked into the Lord’
• The lessons that he has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“This was a PR mission, it wasn’t a spy mission.”

“They took a two week trip and turned it into a forty year journey.”

“See the possibilities. See what God is up to.”

“You will never be able to overcome anything in life if you can’t overcome first how you see yourself.”

“We determine the size of the mountain in our life…we determine whether it’s a mountain or it’s a stepping stone.”

“Both Jew and Gentile have been working together throughout history to bring forth the manifestation of God’s promises and His Word…we see that again and again.”

‘Be of great courage.”

“We ought to be living every moment trying to fulfill the Ten Commandments.”

“A prisoner cannot free himself from prison.”

“It’s truly a life-giving mission to carry others’ burdens.”

“Enjoy the temporal, but give your life to something eternal.”

“We’re much more similar than different.”

“In order to truly…be a great husband and a great friend, I need my faith in the Lord.”

Numbers 13 - https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.13.1?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Logan begins by sharing his summary of the passage, the significance it holds for him, and George Washington’s perspective on the Book of Micah, particularly this passage. He then proceeds to recount Washington’s views on different religions and his commitment to protect them, his historic letter to the Hebrew congregation of Newport, his powerful faith, and his feelings about Mount Vernon. Logan and Mark also discuss the belief that the ‘American Experiment’ was derived from God, and Logan draws the episode to a close by sharing the lessons he has learned about mankind. Logan’s extensive knowledge of George Washington and the inspiration he found in the Book of Micah illuminates for us today the profound influence the Bible played in laying the foundation of this great nation and its noble and righteous commitment to religious freedom that we all treasure so deeply.

Episode Highlights:

• Logan’s summary of the passage and its significance to him
• George Washington’s perspective on the Book of Micah
• Washington’s views on different religions
• His letter to the Hebrew congregations of Newport
• Washington’s powerful faith
• Mt. Vernon as his sanctuary
• Washington’s commitment to protect the various religious faiths
• The ‘American Experiment’ as being derived from God
• The lessons Logan has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“Washington referenced this part, Micah 4:4 in particular, about fifty times in his writings, more than any other passage.”

“He saw the United States creating this new land in which there was religious liberty, and each person’s religion was celebrated.”

“This was radical.”

“Because he was a religious man, he embraced other religions, because Micah told him to.”

“He sort of saw God in everyone.”

“For him it was really important to protect the various religious faiths.”

“We see so many parallels between the foundation of the American state with the Jewish people in the promised land.”

“Once you have a voice…there’s no place for violence.”

“Persistence and grit is really the key to creating a better world.”

“Never stop learning. Never stop questioning.”

Micah 4:4 But every man shall sit Under his grapevine or fig tree With no one to disturb him. For it was the LORD of Hosts who spoke. https://www.sefaria.org/Micah.4.4?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation begins with Teo summarizing the passage and explaining what it means to him, particularly as an example of his belief that ‘truth revealed is stronger than truth imposed’. He and Mark explore how the passage teaches us how to be a mentor, how God’s plan for each of us is revealed, and about the partnership between people and God. Teo then recounts his own profound ‘Esther 4:14 moment’, the impact it had on his life, and his perspective on the power of crisis. The episode concludes with Teo offering his advice for young people, the lessons about mankind which he has learned, the critical need to love yourself, and the life-changing nature of his time in Jerusalem with Eagles’ Wings. As you listen in, you will quickly come to the realization that Teo’s story here today provides yet another stunning example of the prominent role that biblical truth plays in living a full life in partnership with God, and, as such, renders this an episode not to be missed,

Episode Highlights:

• Teo’s summary of the passage and its meaning for him
• Truth revealed as opposed to truth imposed
• Being a mentor
• How God’s plan for each of us is revealed
• The partnership between people and God
• Teo’s ‘Esther 4:14 moment’ and the impact it had on his life
• The power of crisis
• His advice for young people
• The lessons about mankind that Teo has learned
• Loving yourself
• Teo’s Eagles’ Wings experience and its impact upon him

Quotes:

“I believe that truth revealed is stronger than truth imposed.”

“God has a sovereign plan over humanity, over us as His sons and daughters. However, we are always faced with the choice.”

“I have brought you for such a time as this. I’ve created you to live for something greater than yourself.”

“Whether you come from suffering or from privilege, you are faced with questions that when the Word of the Lord, of the Almighty God, comes through the mouth of His prophets…it just brings connection to the plot.”

“When people realize that He is nearer than we think, we will have God encounters.”

“I’m having to learn to be satisfied and find spirituality on the day to day things.”

“If I take it easy on myself, I take it easy on people around me.”

“Before you love your neighbor as yourself, be careful that you love yourself in the right way.”

“How can I do ministry for…my Lord, my God, and I haven’t even visited His house?”

Esther 4:14 On the contrary, if you keep silent in this crisis, relief and deliverance will come to the Jews from another quarter, while you and your father’s house will perish. And who knows, perhaps you have attained to royal position for just such a crisis.” https://www.sefaria.org/Esther.4.14?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Josh begins by sharing his summary of the Proverbs passage, his reason for selecting it, and the importance for politicians to have and share their vision. He also details the vision that Judaism provides for his life, explores the dangers of a lack of common vision among citizens, and details the work that the Problem Solvers Caucus does. He contrasts the notions of putting one’s political party first instead of one’s country, and reflects upon the current division throughout the United States regarding COVID-19 as well as the ways in which adherence to this passage would guide a leader to respond to it. Looking at the passage from Isaiah, Josh recounts how it helped him when his mother died, and he concludes the episode by sharing the lessons he has learned about mankind which include a description of his ‘Hometown Heroes’ initiative. As you listen today, you will most assuredly come to agree with Mark that Josh Gottheimer truly is ‘a model of what it means to be a great public servant’ as he implements biblical lessons genuinely in his life and his work for our greater good.

Episode Highlights:

• Josh’s summary of the Proverbs passage and the reasons he chose it
• The importance of those in politics having and sharing their vision for the country
• The vision that Judaism gives to Josh
• The danger of a lack of common vision among the citizens of a country
• The Problem Solvers Caucus
• Party first vs. country first
• The current division about COVID-19 and how today’s passage would guide a leader to respond
• How the Isaiah passage helped him after his mother died
• The lessons Josh has learned about mankind
• Josh’s ‘Hometown Heroes’ initiative

Quotes:

“Where there is no vision, the people perish.”

“Any good elected official or somebody running should always present where they hope to bring the country, and that’s why I think it’s so powerful.”

“We end up fighting about every little thing because we’re not really sure in what direction we’re going.”

“I think there’s far too much of this general attitude that party comes before country.”

“Right now our leaders are not even sitting at the table anymore…to me, that’s wholly irresponsible of all our leadership.”

“We must come together or we’ll never beat this thing.”

“Show people where we’re going to get to if you make the sacrifice that we must make.”

“Many of our leaders, in my opinion, should be ashamed of the bickering, what we’re actually fighting about.”

“If you believe in some sort of higher being like I do…you know…you will always have the strength to move forward even in very tough times.”

“I’ve learned…how good people can be and how much kindness goes on every single day that people aren’t aware of.”

“If we actually want back to rewarding people for working together, we’d…immediately have a much better system.”

Proverbs 29:18 - https://www.sefaria.org/Proverbs.29.18?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Isaiah 40:31 - https://www.sefaria.org/Isaiah.40.31?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rabbi Steinmetz begins by explaining what primogeniture is and why he selected these passages to discuss. He and Mark immediately identify the difference between the law and the narratives concerning it in the Bible and take an extensive look at how to reconcile the two. Sibling rivalry, the privilege and responsibility of the first born, and the choice of the Jewish people as God’s first born, are also discussed in detail, as is the intensity which destiny can bring to sibling relationships. The Rabbi’s lessons regarding mankind are shared, including a heartwarming account of a community’s care for one another, and the concept of justice and kindness working together. As Mark states, his good friend Rabbi Steinmetz possesses the remarkable ability to ‘distill Jewish wisdom so succinctly and so profoundly simultaneously’, and this ability is on full display here today in this most enlightening episode.

Episode Highlights:

• What primogeniture is and why Rabbi Steinmetz selected these passages about it
• The contrast between the law and the narratives regarding primogeniture in the Bible and how to reconcile them
• The concern surrounding sibling rivalry within the Bible
• The privilege and responsibility of being the first born
• The Jewish people as God’s first born
• How the intensity of destiny can affect sibling relationships
• The lessons Rabbi Steinmetz has learned about mankind
• His story of a community coming together to help each other heroically
• Justice and kindness

Quotes:

“Primogeniture was the concept that basically drove the ancient world, and in comes the Bible and…it seems like they’re all essentially fired.”

“The great puzzle here is the Bible seems to assert a unique status to the first born, both in terms of their sacred status as well as their financial status…and…the entire Book of Genesis seems to undermine that particular concept.”

“They need to take care of the younger siblings.”

“If the children of Jacob can’t get along, or can’t figure out how to get along, then the tribes are never going to get along, and that’s a real problem.”

“It’s about responsibility. I want you to assume that responsibility.”

“The Bible is saying the first born may have been understood to have privilege, but really what’s important is that the first born needs to have responsibility.”

“There is a sense that this child now, just because they’re first born, needs to think about others and take care of others and needs to have, and has, a sacred task in life.”

“We can all be the first born.”

“You never fully understand the heart of another human being.”

“We still have this profound sense of responsibility that there is more that we could do, and that there’s always more that we could do.”

Exodus 13:2 “Consecrate to Me every first-born; man and beast, the first issue of every womb among the Israelites is Mine.” https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.13.2?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rabbi Steinmetz’s blog: http://chaimsteinmetz.blogspot.com/

The conversation begins with Tevi summarizing the passage and sharing the meaning it holds for him as it explains the remarkable continuity of the Jewish people. He and Mark then explore how Judaism is an ‘action first religion’, and Tevi recounts how this became his favorite biblical verse and offers his perspective and advice regarding the Jewish people maintaining their continuity into the future. They then review the many ways to connect to Judaism, and the success of the Chabad Lubavitch Movement, before Tevi concludes the episode with the lessons he has learned about mankind. Listen in today to these two learned seekers of biblical truth as they reveal just how ‘the Sabbath has kept the Jews’ through the past and the present, and can continue to do so in the future.

Episode Highlights:

• Tevi’s summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for him
• How it explains the remarkable continuity of the Jewish people
• Judaism as an ‘action first religion’
• How this became Tevi’s favorite verse
• Tevi’s perspective on Jews maintaining this continuity into the future
• His advice for individuals and institutions around maintaining continuity
• The many ways to connect to Judaism
• The Chabad Lubavitch Movement
• The lessons about mankind which Tevi has learned

Quotes:

“Here, he gives one of the greatest political speeches in history.”

“The Jewish people are still here, and I think it’s in that sentence that we really see why.”

“Judaism is about the practice.”

“People who are still maintaining their tradition this long, they will surely again see their temple rise.”

“And yet it’s through this dynamism that we’ve maintained this constancy.”

“The Jewish Law applies equally to all of us…no one is lesser in the eyes of God.”

“As long as you have people who are able to rediscover Judaism and stick with the religion stick with the tradition and follow the path that the Lord laid out…then we will have a pathway for Jewish continuity now and into the future.”

“The old will be made new and the new will be made holy.”

“We need to train our children so that when they go off to these schools, they’re able and willing and eager to defend Israel and recognize what a beacon of hope, freedom, and light it is.”

“God has a plan for us and we just need to not get in the way.”

Deuteronomy 4:4 while you, who held fast to the LORD your God, are all alive today. https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.4.4?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Andrew begins the discussion by summarizing the passage and sharing the meaning it holds for him. He and Mark delve into how its theme is repeated throughout the Bible and illustrate how it is reflected in the world of today. They also explore the components of Jewish statehood, the importance of a leader’s character, the inescapability of philosophy, and Andrew’s prediction for the future and growth opportunities for Reform Judaism. As with all episodes, our guest concludes the podcast with the lessons he has learned about mankind throughout his extensive career. At this current moment in history, when chaos, anarchy, and leadership are discussed and debated on virtually a daily basis, today’s episode is a particularly relevant one, shining the light of Torah wisdom and providing its timeless words of guidance that are so sorely needed.

Episode Highlights:

• Andrew’s summary of the passage and why it’s meaningful to him
• How its theme is repeated in the Bible and reflected these days
• The importance of centralized leadership
• The stability that clear and decisive leadership brings even when it’s unjust
• Why there is chaos in the absence of strong centralized leadership
• The freedom that statehood offers and enables the Jewish people to blossom
• Defense of the people, flourishing of the people, and the manner it achieves the aims in justice
• The importance of the character of a leader
• The inescapability of philosophy
• Andrew’s prediction for the future of Reform Judaism
• The fundamentals of Reform Judaism
• The growth opportunities that Andrew sees for Reform Judaism
• The lessons that Andrew has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“It’s just terrible. It’s the worst kind of chaos, civil war, disorder.”

“Where there’s no centralized ruler, everyone does what…seems right in their own eyes.”

“The idea that that expresses really happens throughout the Bible.”

“Where there’s chaos, where there’s anarchy, there is no leadership, there is no ruler in place, if you will.”

“It brings stability just by setting clear expectations of what the law is, even if it’s an unjust law.”

“It seems that it’s not just defense, it’s also offence.”

“In a democracy, I think the character of a leader is perhaps most important because the people are the direct rulers, if you will…when the ruler’s character is decayed, the people themselves will take that as a lead and justify any manner of behavior.”

“Political leadership has tremendous role modeling effects.”

“We create all kinds of rationalizations to produce the outcomes that we want.”

“We’re in a different era. We need to do things differently in a way that is actually going to continue the transformative work that we have done for…146 years.”

“There’s always a...spark of the divine in all of us.”

Judges 17:6 In those days there was no king in Israel; every man did as he pleased. https://www.sefaria.org/Judges.17.6?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Their conversation starts with Ken summarizing the passages, sharing his reasons for selecting them, explaining why he risks himself in accordance with them, and exploring with Mark the notion of loving others and yourself. Drawing upon his vast humanitarian experiences, Ken offers some examples of helping both those who commit horrible things and their victims in the same way, how people respond when feeling God’s love through him and his team members, those who are evil and how he has negotiated with such individuals, and the impact of what he terms ‘speed prayers’. The episode concludes with some news regarding Ken’s memoir, the lessons that he has learned about mankind, and Mark’s recommendation of the film ‘Facing Darkness’. It’s not everyday that one is introduced to a person who consistently sacrifices their safety and security to bring God’s love to those who have suffered the most in this world, and that’s precisely why Ken’s story of living out these passages is one that so sorely needs to be heard and spread throughout the world today.

Quotes:

“You have lived it in the most intense possible way.”

“I feel called to the world.”

“It’s hard for me to believe sometimes that I get paid for what I do – I love it that much.”

“Not only are you helping those directly, but I’ve met several younger people who you’ve inspired in your line of work to do things that are well beyond what…they would have considered their capabilities to follow you into loving the stranger.”

“Who are these people who are helping us? We have been trying to kill them.”

“You have to show love yourself, even when it’s hard.”

“Everybody is one person, and you want to be one person all the time.”

“Even the most cold hearted people typically have some soft spot in them.”

“You need to appeal to either the optics of what they’re doing, or you need to appeal to what is to their advantage.”

“Pray to God and ask Him for wisdom in all that you do.”

“There is no limit on the depravity of man. What one man will do to another man, or to a group of people, is absolutely unbelievable, and I can’t get that out of my mind.”

“We like to believe that the default position of mankind is goodness, but I disagree strongly with that.”

“God is an all loving God…no matter what anyone has done, if they seek a relationship with God, that door is open.”

“You have so internalized and so lived the love of the stranger and the love of the neighbor.”

Leviticus 19:18 - https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.19.18?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Deuteronomy 6:5 - https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.6.5?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Benjamin begins the conversation by summarizing the selected passage and its significance for him. Mark then describes how Benjamin very much embodies the passage’s message of using God-given gifts to better communities, particularly through his Freedom Friday initiative. Benjamin also shares how ‘God repeatedly showed up’ for him and his family, the heartwarming story behind his unsportsmanlike conduct penalty, the role that faith and biblical verses play in the NFL, and his experience with fear and how he overcame it. He concludes, as all guests do, by detailing the lessons he has learned about mankind. As Mark notes, Benjamin’s website reflects a Christian family devoted to their faith and acting on it through the alleviation of suffering and creation of opportunities in ways that genuinely and directly benefit the least fortunate. You will discover that he and Mark are truly kindred spirits in this regard, as they both bring this passage to life not only in their conversation here today, but so very much in the way they lead their lives as well.

Episode Highlights:

• Benjamin’s summary of the passage and its significance for him
• How he embodies this passage
• Using the gifts God gives to better communities
• Freedom Friday and how it began
• How ‘God repeatedly showed up’ for Benjamin and his family
• The story behind his unsportsmanlike conduct penalty and fine
• The role of faith and specific biblical verses in the NFL
• Benjamin’s experience with fear and how he overcame it
• The lessons that Benjamin has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“We need to have some humility in the way we speak, in the way we act, in our thought process, because of the blessings that we have.”

“It talks about God being God of kindness, justice, and righteousness which is what kind of informs how I believe we should act towards people and the things we should be involved with.”

“Don’t deny these gifts. Thank God for them, work on them, develop them, don’t be falsely humble, acknowledge God gave me strength, God gave him wisdom, God gave her riches…now our job is to channel these gifts.”

“God strategically places His people where He wants them to be.”

“Push for a certain moral standard that not only benefits us personally, and as a representation of the God that we serve, but will also benefit our country collectively for the long term.”

“There are a lot of things that are important, but we have to hone in on what God wants us to be involved in.”

“Certain verses inspire certain players at certain times.”

“After every single NFL game, players from both sides come to the middle of the field…you’ll see a circle of players pray together - both teams, hand in hand.”

“If we can trust our eternity to God, I can trust him with my career, I can trust him with my relationships, I can trust him with the things that I see right now.”

“God can use your talents, but He doesn’t need them.”

“Our lives are best lived when they are poured out for other people.”

Jeremiah 9:22,23 - https://www.sefaria.org/Jeremiah.9.22-23?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Benjamin’s homepage: https://thewatsonseven.com/

Episode Highlights:

• How John has maintained the quality of Commentary while bringing it into new digital media
• John’s summary of the passage
• Peace through strength
• The difference between Jacob’s view of the event and his sons’ view
• Understanding the beauty of the Bible
• The ‘thing that must not be done’
• The sophistication and moral seriousness of the Torah
• The lessons that John has learned about mankind
• The central difference between conservatives and liberals

Quotes:

“The task of Judaism is to renew the old and sanctify the new, and you have certainly done that with Commentary.”

“This rape then turns to love, I guess, the next morning.”

“The circumcision they transform into a military tactic.”

“It was the first example of peace through strength.”

“It’s tantalizingly unclear what God thinks of what the two young men did.”

“One of the beauties of the Bible is the complexity of everybody in it.”

“God is not a wimp.”

“We could have been over before we got started.”

“You have to have just outcomes with just means.”

“The framing of biblical morality is, in some ways, a visit from a radical future.”

“Here is the book on how to live and nobody else on the planet was anywhere near the sophistication and the moral seriousness of these presented rules of conduct.”

Genesis 34 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.34.1-31?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mort begins by summarizing the passage, its meaning for him, and by sharing a quick summary of Jewish history in order to put the passage into its historical context. He and Mark then discuss the true role of a prophet, Micah’s message in this passage, and the concepts of acting justly and loving kindness and mercy which it espouses. Mort also offers his perspective on one of the most significant parts of Micah’s message, explores with Mark just what it really means to be good and to ‘walk humbly with God’, and reviews the notion of the 70 faces to the Torah. As with all of Mark’s guests, Mort finishes up with the lessons about mankind that he has learned, an exercise which leads him back to the nature of narcissism and its prevalence in today’s society. Today’s conversation is a prime example of the Torah’s value as a guide to modern life, as these two scholars tease out the ‘the kind of life we’re supposed to be living’ from this timelessly instructive passage.

Episode Highlights:

• Mort’s summary of the passage, and its meaning for him
• Mort’s 30 second summary of Jewish history
• The role of a prophet
• Micah’s message in this passage
• Acting justly and loving kindness
• One of the most significant parts of Micah’s message
• Walking humbly with our God
• What does it really mean to be good?
• The 70 faces to the Torah
• The lessons about mankind which Mort has learned
• Narcissism

Quotes:

“For me, I would say, it’s aspirational.”

“The Hebrew of this passage is so nuanced…each word just contains a whole world of psychological information.”

“Much like the Middle East of today, chaos, war, refugees, so you know this passage is going to speak to us.”

“The Jews were given the land of Israel to be a light unto the nations which means moral behavior.”

“What does God seek from us?”

“You have to know God every way you are capable of knowing him. You have to be in touch with yourself.”

“If you do justice over and over and over again, you will end up loving mercy.”

“Being a Jew means being involved with the world.”

“People are very, very much stuck on themselves.”

“If you’re going to be all about you, you’re not going to have a very happy life.”

“Torah means teaching.”

Micah 6:8 “He has told you, O man, what is good, And what the LORD requires of you: Only to do justice And to love goodness, And to walk modestly with your God; https://www.sefaria.org/Micah.6.8?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Jake starts off by explaining why this passage is meaningful to him, how he prepares for and practices Shabbat, and how Jewish hospitality is portrayed to the world. He and Mark discuss the Torah idea of ‘you are what you eat’, explore differing perspectives on the concept of being kosher, and then Jake shares details of his Jewish upbringing, and his personal example of the role that food plays in building community. He then gives a glimpse into his upcoming book, offers examples of what is considered Israeli food, and relates his favorite aspect of Jewish food that has come to a head during the time of quarantine. Jake’s lessons about mankind are also presented which lead to a review of Shabbat and purposeful rest, and the OneTable organization. All that Jake shares here regarding his sacred task of helping people to love Shabbat provides yet another shining example of the Torah’s relevance and value today and, really, throughout all time.

Episode Highlights:

• Why this passage is meaningful to Jake
• How Jake prepares for and practices Shabbat
• How Jewish hospitality is portrayed to the world
• The Torah idea of ‘you are what you eat’ or ‘you become what you eat’
• Differing perspectives on the concept of being kosher
• Jake’s Jewish upbringing
• Jake’s example from his family of the role that food plays in building community
• His upcoming book, JEW-ISH
• Examples of Israeli food
• Jake’s favorite aspect of Jewish food that has come to a head during the pandemic quarantine
• The lessons Jake has learned about mankind
• Shabbat and purposeful rest
• OneTable.org

Quotes:

“I think there’s really one word that talks to me in this passage, and that’s the concept of preparation, and it’s about the preparation of Shabbat.”

“Creating a moment of, kind of, gathering and breaking bread that is so traditionally Jewish. It’s this Jewish ritual that most people I host would not celebrate on their own, and I’m creating a space, and preparing a space in which they’re able to do it in a way that fits their lives.”

“Hospitality is essential to what it means to be a Jew.”

“By full authority as the Rabbi’s Husband, a Rueben is kosher.”

“I personally find that creating a meal, creating an experience around this day of Shabbat and this…special meal is what makes it sacred.”

“You’re doing a sacred task by helping people to love Shabbat. That’s a sacred task.”

“You’re enjoying Shabbat – that’s the substance…focus on the substance.”

“The key part of why we turned to Jewish ritual was this concept of community.”

“The fundamental principle of Judaism is the community.”

“I think food was definitely this unifier, as it always will be.”

“We have a holiday every week…it’s magical.”

Exodus 16:5 But on the sixth day, when they apportion what they have brought in, it shall prove to be double the amount they gather each day.” https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.16.5?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Jake’s homepage: https://www.wakeandjake.com/

Jake’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakecohen/?hl=en

Jake’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Jew-ish-Cookbook-Reinvented-Recipes-Modern/dp/035835398X

Bill begins by explaining the notion of a ‘spiritual director’, and then he shares his summary of the passages, the unity he finds in the two, and the reasons that he chose them for today’s discussion. He and Mark continue by discussing the three-step process for taking action which these passages delineate, and the times that Bill both has and hasn’t followed this process, particularly in his current career. Bill also explores the Jesuit concept of ‘that still, small voice’ which leads to Mark’s description of the classic Jewish angel in Mark’s life. Bill finishes the episode by sharing the lessons he has learned throughout his extensive career and how they relate to today’s passages. While it may be true that ‘there is no right action for all time’, you can rest assured that today is the right time for you to listen, learn, and be moved to action by these two titans of business, philanthropy, and biblical study.

Episode Highlights:

• The notion of a ‘spiritual director’
• Bill’s summary of the passages, the unity he sees in the two, and why he chose them
• The 3-step process
• Times from Bill’s life when he has waited for God’s direction and when he hasn’t
• Bill’s teaching experience
• ‘That still, small voice’
• The classic Jewish angel in Bill’s life
• Lessons Bill has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“There’s a time for a whole variety of things.”

“There’s no one right action for all time.”

“This passage…is a good summary of some of the minefields that I attempt to navigate.”

“Once you feel that you know the direction from God, then it’s time to move.”

“Be still, pray, get direction…and then move.”

“This was God’s will..He’s providing me a path.”

“I began to notice when I was driving home after class, I just had a feeling of peace…I don’t feel that in a lot of other areas of my professional life.”

“I was flying with God’s grace.”

“God created me the way I am.”

“If you’re strict, you can’t teach.”

“In the teaching context, I feel like I can pause and maybe impart that idea, you know, that we’re all the same."

Ecclesiastes 3 - https://www.sefaria.org/Ecclesiastes.3.1-22?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Exodus 14:14-15 - https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.14.14-15?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Peter begins by explaining how he predicted the 1987 stock market crash, the role of the Robin Hood Foundation, and his reasons for selecting this passage. Together, he and Mark analyze the passage and its message of treating others as family, the call for obligation and responsibility, and the importance of acting righteously particularly during times of increased difficulties such as the current pandemic. Peter finishes by stressing the need to learn about yourself, shares the advice he offers those just beginning their careers, and, as with every guest, relates the lessons about mankind which he has learned. Today’s episode focuses on our obligation and responsibility to treat others as family, and it is brought to you by two men who daily live this passage – listen in to become informed and inspired.

Episode Highlights:

• How Peter predicted the 1987 stock market crash
• The role of the Robin Hood Foundation over the years
• Why Peter chose this passage
• Treating other people as family
• Obligation and responsibility vs. charity
• The importance of acting righteously particularly during times of increased difficulties
• The need to learn about yourself
• Peter’s advice to those he meets who are just beginning their careers
• The lessons about mankind which Peter has learned

Quotes:

“The stock market crash precipitated the founding of Robin Hood.”

“I think that in a nutshell was a little bit of the philosophy of Robin Hood.”

“They are your brothers and sisters.”

“It’s the right thing to do.”

“You can’t be righteous without giving.”

“If you give it away, you will make it.”

“Giving becomes a habit.”

“You take pleasure in raising people up to your level.”

“Loyalty comes because you are interested in them.”

Leviticus 25:35-38 If your kinsman, being in straits, comes under your authority, and you hold him as though a resident alien, let him live by your side: do not exact from him advance or accrued interest, but fear your God. Let him live by your side as your kinsman. Do not lend him your money at advance interest, or give him your food at accrued interest. I the LORD am your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, to give you the land of Canaan, to be your God. https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.25.35-38?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Howard starts off today’s discussion by setting the stage for the passage, describing this first example of a dual leadership model, explaining the difference between a prophet and a priest even as it is sustained today, and emphasizing the Torah’s proclivity for intentional word selection. He and Mark continue by examining Aaron’s Imposter Syndrome, the quality which makes him the most qualified to assume the role of High Priest, and, through an analysis of his sons’ deaths, they reveal the true moment of his consecration. Howard concludes the discussion by sharing lessons that this passage offers regarding how to treat those in mourning, the burden of leadership, and the lessons that he has learned about mankind throughout his long and storied career. The sheer amount of knowledge, wisdom, and enthusiasm which Howard brings to today’s conversation renders it a joy to listen to – those ‘hungry to learn’ will find in his words, truly, an unparalleled feast.

Episode Highlights:

• Setting the stage for the passage
• The first example of a dual leadership model
• The difference between a prophet and a priest and how it is sustained today
• Aaron and The Imposter Syndrome
• The Torah’s intentional choice of words
• What makes Aaron the most qualified to assume the role of High Priest
• Nadab and Abihu, fidelity to law, and religious extremism
• Aaron’s true consecration
• Lessons from this passage about how to treat those in mourning
• The burden of leadership
• The lessons that Howard has learned about mankind

Quotes:

“This is really the ordination of Aaron as high priest and his sons as the priestly dynasty.”

“We have a leadership paradigm being established here.”

“Your biggest weakness will be your greatest strength.”

“The reason why you feel like an impostor is actually the reason why you’re the most qualified guy I could possibly have.”

“They had a zealousness that consumed them.”

“Judgment and fidelity to law is something that the priesthood must follow.”

“He cannot assume this high office with haughtiness. He has to be grounded, just like you’re grounded to the earth.”

“Every loss is unique, and sometimes just a shake of the head or a comforting hand on someone’s shoulder offers more comfort.”

“We are who we were.”

Leviticus 9:1 – 10:3 - https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.9.1-10.3?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

The Ambassador begins by sharing his fascinating Jewish journey, identifying this passage as a revolutionary idea, and revealing just why it is so meaningful for him. Building on the theme of the passage, he relates his varied life experiences as a ‘stranger’ including his Jewish experience in Costa Rica and the Jewish community he found there. As an extension to the lessons he has learned about mankind in both business and government, Ambassador Haney also provides examples that he has encountered of those who have been immobilized by fear. This is a man who has very much lived the passage he has selected to discuss, and his words here today shine a brilliant spotlight once more upon the supreme value and eternal relevance of the Torah.

Episode Highlights:

Ambassador Haney’s Jewish journey

• ‘Loving the stranger’ as a revolutionary idea
• Why this passage speaks to Ambassador Haney so strongly
• His varied experiences with others as a ‘stranger’
• His Jewish experience as Ambassador to Costa Rica
• The Jewish community in Costa Rica
• The lessons that the Ambassador has learned about mankind in business and government
• His examples of those being immobilized by fear

Quotes:

“You have a Jewish soul. It just will take time for it to develop.”

“It is the most frequently cited commandment in the Bible – 36 times – ‘to love the stranger’ in various forms and incarnations.”

“This was a revolutionary idea.”

“I think my entire life, in some ways because of the situations I was in, I felt like a stranger, I felt like an outsider.”

“Costa Rica, you know, has a…small but very strong Jewish community, and it’s very connected to Israel.”

“You have to actually do something to welcome the stranger into your world.”

“You are only as happy as your most miserable child.”

“The fear of failure tends to paralyze people.”

“We have to be commanded to step out of our comfort zone.”

Exodus 23:9 You shall not oppress a stranger, for you know the feelings of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt. https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.23.9?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Bill begins the discussion by summarizing the passage, and sharing his reasons for selecting it. He then explains his concept of a ‘funnel verse’, and why he considers this passage one, before exploring the notion of doing justice actively and the attitude each person brings to such action. Bill also offers details about the Bible Studies with other politicians in which he takes part, and shares examples of members from differing parties finding common ground and working together. He and Mark also review God’s love for the broken, and Bill’s concept of God ‘going through the furniture’ of his life is discussed. The podcast finishes, as always, with our guest sharing the lessons he has learned about mankind, and expands to reveal how Bill brings his medical expertise to Congress. Throughout their conversation, you will uncover precisely why Mark feels that the nation’s Founders were hoping for Bill Cassidy, a man who funnels all aspects of his life through this most meaningful of passages in order to allow God to teach and guide him each day.

Episode Highlights:

• Bill’s summary of the passage and why it’s meaningful to him
• His concept of a ‘funnel verse’
• How do we do justice actively?
• The attitude you bring to action
• Bill’s Bible study groups with other politicians of both parties
• Examples of members of differing parties working together on common ground
• God’s love for the broken
• God ‘going through the furniture of my life’
• The lessons about mankind which Bill has learned
• How Bill brings his medical expertise to Congress

Quotes:

“We kind of totally ignore the practical teaching of what we read.”

“Everything else I’m reading which I wish to guide my life, funnels through it.”

“We really need God to teach within us that which we should be doing.”

“Am I actually living this? It’s a challenge.”

“You are not righteous unless you do justice.”

“You can fool lots of people, you can even fool yourself, but you can’t fool God.”

“Believe me, in politics, you need a funnel verse.”

“Actions matter, but so does character.”

“If there’s a funnel verse, there are funnel relationships.”

“In my own mind, my own understanding, there should almost be a restlessness.”

“Do the simple thing for the person who is before you.”

Psalms 51:8 Indeed You desire truth about that which is hidden; teach me wisdom about secret things. https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.51?lang=bi

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Cory begins by summarizing the passage, and sharing his reasons for choosing it and the meaning it holds for him. He and Mark then discuss the concepts of ‘underpromise, overdeliver’ and ‘giving without being asked’ as they appear in the passage and in their own lives. They also discuss the nature of angels and their presence within the Torah and throughout the world today. Cory offers his perspective on the lessons he has learned about humankind and also what he has learned about America that others wouldn’t necessarily know. Woven throughout this informative discussion is the sense that the lessons of the Torah continue to reveal themselves to these two very good friends and play a pivotal role in their personal and professional lives as they bring kindness and justice to life and look for and find God’s messengers in those around them.

Episode Highlights:

• Cory’s summary of the passage, his reasons for choosing it, and its meaning for him
• One of his favorite moments as an American
• Underpromise, overdeliver
• Giving without being asked
• The giving that Mark and Cory have done
• Cory’s experience in the burning building
• Why Abraham is such an extraordinary figure
• Defiance of God as a celebrated virtue in the Torah
• The nature of angels and where Cory has met them
• How Mark has been an angel to Cory
• Looking at everyone as a potential messenger from God
• The lessons that Cory has learned about humankind
• What he has learned about America that others wouldn’t know

Quotes:

“It involves...two of the great values of humanity...kindness, and...justice.”

“Welcome the stranger because you were once a stranger in a strange land.”

“I got such chills watching these men dance and sing and celebrate the welcoming of strangers coming into America from a different faith and race - it was amazing to me.”

“He runs away from God to do good, to do justice.”

“I’m going to stand up for what is just, no matter if it’s the will of God or not.”

“When you serve people, you become greater than the angels.”

“I see you, I love you.”

“Everybody is worthy of love and grace.”

“I feel complicit when I witness things and I don’t speak up about them.”

“You’ve internalized so many of these values of the Torah.”

“I’m trying to live up to my values everyday, and I fall short everyday, but I think it’s that wrestling always with that, is what’s important with me.”

Genesis 18:1-10 - https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.18

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Tom begins today’s conversation by offering a summary of the passage along with the reasons why it is so meaningful not only to him, but to young soldiers, chaplains, and so many throughout the Army. He and Mark then discuss the partnership between man and God, the distinction of truly knowing and truly understanding, and Tom shares how The Old Guard, with whom he served, embodies the meaning of this passage. As always, our guest finishes the discussion by recounting the lessons that he has learned about mankind throughout his remarkable life. Tune in today to learn, along with Mark, just how important this passage is to those who serve in the Army, and the lessons it can offer to all of us.

Episode Highlights:

• Tom’s summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for him
• Why it is meaningful to young soldiers
• How Chaplains use this passage in the Army
• The partnership between man and God
• Truly knowing and understanding
• How The Old Guard embodies the meaning of this passage
• The lessons that Tom has learned about mankind

Quotes: “Probably one of the two most cited verses among soldiers, at least the soldiers I knew at the time I served.” “The Army’s way to purify you, to turn you into a true soldier who’d be ready to go forth and do the work, Lord’s work and the nation’s work.” “You should always do your duty and do what’s asked of you.” “It’s through that partnership of man and God that God’s work gets done on the Earth.” “There’s a difference between knowing of something and truly knowing it; of perceiving it and truly understanding it.” “Do the hard right over the easy wrong.” “Hopefully, the eternal wisdom and ever inspiring words of the Bible can bring us to an ever better place, politically and otherwise.”

Isaiah 6:8 Then I heard the voice of my Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I; send me.” https://www.sefaria.org/Isaiah.6.8

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

In this episode, Mark and Robert discuss Caleb, the first political Zionist, the lessons to be learned from the Bible and Caleb’s role particularly, and the parallels Robert finds between Caleb and his own work today. They also reflect upon the power of Jewish-Gentile friendship and cooperation, especially in current times, and Robert shares some lessons he has learned during his lengthy career as a Pastor. As Mark notes, “Everything in the Bible is trying to teach us something about how we can live our lives better and more meaningfully today”, and you can rest assured that the wealth of insight and knowledge shared in this episode offers a formidable step forward in this profoundly rewarding journey of discovery.

Episode Highlights:

Caleb’s first appearance in the Torah and the lesson it offers The power that the Bible possesses The Ereb Rab Robert’s work in the world today Jewish-Gentile friendship and cooperation Some lessons Robert has learned as a pastor

Quotes:

“The Torah is living and active.”

“One of the great gifts of the Jewish people to the world is this understanding of an ordered universe under the care and auspices of a benevolent, good Creator God.”

“Caleb is the archetype of the Gentile who links himself to the spiritual journey.”

“Israel…you are well able to have a thriving, blessed society in your ancient borders because God has ordained this.”

“We’re living in a moment that has great continuity all the way back to Caleb and Joshua of Jewish and Gentile cooperation around ethical monotheism.”

Numbers 13:1-33 The LORD spoke to Moses, saying, “Send men to scout the land of Canaan, which I am giving to the Israelite people; send one man from each of their ancestral tribes, each one a chieftain among them.” So Moses, by the LORD’s command, sent them out from the wilderness of Paran, all the men being leaders of the Israelites. https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.13.1-3?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Links:

The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/

Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Eagles’ Wings homepage: https://eagleswings.org/