In this episode we look into the concept of genetics in Torah law. When are we developing the world and using the resources God gave us and when are we playing God? Is it ethical to pick the gender of a child? What about their height/eye color? What if it impacts their health? Does that…

In this episode we take a look at the fascinating case of Cassandra C. In September 2014, Cassandra C., then 17 years old, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. After lying to the courts and running away from chemo, she was placed under the custody of the Connecticut Dept. of Children and Families. She was then…

Have you ever felt trapped in a certain behavior pattern and struggled to break out? Often when we approach our behaviors head on, we lose badly. How can the Torah guide us in this aspect? In Numbers chapter 6 the Torah discusses the Nazirite, one who accepts upon himself to separate from certain physical pleasures…

While traveling in the desert, God commands Moses to set up the Jews in very specific formation; three tribes in each direction and the tabernacle in the center. The Torah also teaches that each encampment had its own flag, as well as each tribe had its own flag. What was the role of these flags…

I heard earlier today that one of my greatest Rabbis passed away. His name was Rabbi Eliyahu Margulies zt’l, and he was my teacher that really opened my eyes to the deeper side of Torah. Many ideas that I share on this podcast are sourced from this great man. In his honor and in his…

One of the most famous Jewish dictums is (Leviticus 19:18), “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But this verse seems quite difficult! Is it really possible? What does that mean? Do I really have to do everything that I would do for myself for all my Jewish brethren as well? Buy them their groceries?…

There is a biblical obligation to count 50 days from the Omer offering (Leviticus chapter 23), and then on the 50th day to bring an offering of two breads and celebrate a holiday (Shavuos). Even in modern times, in which we no longer have a temple and can no longer perform these offerings, we still…

The Yahrtzeit is the Hebrew date of passing of a close family member. There are many customs observed on the yahrtzeit as a merit for the departed soul, such as, lighting a 24 hour candle, learning Torah and saying the mourner’s kaddish. In this episode, I take a deeper look at the significance of the…

What is the real definition of “freedom”? Is it doing whatever we want, however we want, whenever we want or is it something more internal? How does the Torah define freedom? Join me as we analyze a few unique stories of “freedom” to uncover this essential principle. Additionally, we’ll discuss many other fundamental ideas, such…

This episode is the last one discussing the laws of Passover. In episode 68, I discussed the laws (and philosophy) of removing chametz from your house in general. In episode 69, I discussed how to kasher your year-round kitchen to allow you to use it for cooking Passover food. In this episode, I discuss the…