History for the Curious - The Jewish History Podcast (JLE)

Why was a Jew subjected to an excommunication in 1705, that was never revoked? And how did it create a power struggle in the Ashkenzai community of England? 

Jews lived across England from 1070 onwards, but 600 of them were imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1278? Why? And how did the Jews add Hebrew words to the English medieval language?

What was the Donation of Constantine? What is the crime of Deicide? And how do I respond to a Missionary?

Why did the world change with the printing press? Why were mistakes included and were they deliberate ?

Who censored the Rama? And how do you translate Alma?

Despite the Ghetto restrictions, it was home to a number of noteworthy figures. And a Levantine merchant turn the Ghetto into a minor haven?

But controversy soon followed with a sinister visit from Nathan of Gaza.

Aged over 70, he is yet to be elected as the Rov of Prague.

So what is his actual connection? Why did his son leave town? Where did the Maharal spend Yom Kippur in 1602?

...And a key insight into the teachings and ideas of the Maharal.

Chapters

03:12 Jewish Identity vs Jewish Society

06:04 Responses to Antisemitism: A Spectrum of Reactions

09:00 Five Cultural Figures and Their Influence

11:51 Theodor Herzl: From Assimilation to Zionism

20:54 The Collision of Ideas: Herzl and Viennese Jewry

23:50 Herzl's Proposals: Why they happened in Vienna

30:09 Nathan Birnbaum: The Ideologue of Zionism

35:24 Sigmund Freud: A Complex Jewish Identity

39:14 Freud's Psychoanalysis: Does it have religious value?

46:30 Rabbi Moshe David Flesch: A Voice for Jewish Women

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:05 Legends and Stories in Jewish History

08:50 Prominent Jewish Scholars and Physicians

16:30 Transition from Muslim to Christian Rule

24:48 Power Dynamics: Kings and the Church

29:00 Challenges to Jewish Authority

31:58 Clothing and Distinguishing Marks

36:12 Freedom and High Profile

39:01 Tensions and Uncertainty

Three Jews in Colonial America:  An Officer serving under Benedict Arnold, a Spy who worked for George Washington and a Chocolate manufacturer who tried to make peace.

A unique world existed for two centuries in which a  Jewish general lead Moslem armies into battle and authored 1,500 poems while Chasdai, the most famous Jew, discovered the antidote to poison and oversaw the creation of Jewish grammar.

Was Yosef Hannagid responsible for the death of an Arab prince? And how did Spain over-rule Babylonia?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Golden Age of Spanish Jewry

14:18 The Achievements and Influential Figures of the Golden Age

35:58 The Cultural Significance of Poetry and Literature

39:21 Emergence of Jewish Literary Works in Muslim Spain

41:37 The End of the Golden Age

43:28 Disputes Among Jewish Grammarians

The Jews are unwelcome across Europe although England now offers the appearance of hope. But it's a high-stakes game which someone will lose and the tangled politics may just be too much too soon.

Across entire continents, Jews have had to deal with political intrigue and corrupt rulers. Occasionally these were overlaid with decrees of destruction and sincere prayer. And throughout the ages, the unexpected outcomes inspired communities to create a Purim which celebrated their particular miracle. 

Featuring special guest speaker Rabbi Shraga Feivel Zimmerman. 

As the 13th century drew to a close and persecution in Germany increased, one individual gathered together thousands of responsa and rulings: Rabbi Meir of Rotenberg.

Who was he? How did his writings influence the next 700 years of Jewish life? And why was he never set free?

The question behind all our podcasts? What can we learn? How does it change us.

Our matched funds campaign is now live. If you enjoy History for the Curious, Please sponsor our continued podcasts:

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The link will be live all of this week

The Holocaust offered almost no possibilities to strike back. Yet whenever the opportunity did arise, there were always some who risked everything; often paying the ultimate price.

Two girls - under very different circumstances - became legendary. This is their story

Hungary might forbid Israelites to live in their cities, but the Seven Communities change the rules. Nevertheless, the Jews are still barely tolerated.

They join the revolution of 1848, but when emancipation comes their way, the cracks will widen. Be careful what you wish for

Curious about Rabbi Hersh & the Podcast? Please check out our annual peek behind the scenes where I get to ask all the burning questions we've all had...

https://vimeo.com/779294036

Why would a zealous missionary priest, print the Talmud for the Jews of Prague? And what controversial role did a famous Dayan in Prague play?

Chapters

00:00 Excommunication and Imposing Bans

06:18 Excommunication and Scholarly Disputes

13:28 The Role of the Chazan in the Synagogue

26:04 Insights from Historical Responsa

In the 19th century, Jews may not become Members of Parliament. But somehow they get elected anyway. Apostasy, division and determination, in pursuit of the greatest political goal: Prime Minister of Britain. The story of the Disraelis 

Why was the Gaon unable to carry out certain ideas? Why remain neutral in the dispute that engulfed the 1700s? And who is buried next to him?

What made the Provencal sages write critiques of the greatest rabbinic scholars? Why did the Baal Hamaor never wear Tzitzis? Which sefer was written entirely by angels -  And was it accepted halachically? Why was the Ravaad imprisoned?

Did a Christian censor help the Jews of Bohemia?

Who was Rav Sherira Gaon and why is the letter he wrote over 1,000 years ago, so important today?

What brought Jews to America in the 1600s?

And why did a Rabbi in Indiana write to the US Secretary of State - in Hebrew!?

How do you survive lying alone in a grave for 2 months? Where does a teenager find the determination and belief to overcome betrayal, loss and danger through the terrible years of war?

Pesach icons - Manischewitz vs. IRS - Late additions & 20th Century changes. And don't forget to Remove the Plagues.

Who was he? When was he actually born? Why was he crucified? And how did 2.3 billion people become his followers?

This podcast is required listening for any Jew. 

A liar, a smuggler and a forger. All after the prize - the most lucrative of the 19th century. Meanwhile Cairo is opening up to foreigners...

DON'T FORGET TO FOLLOW/SUBSCRIBE SO YOU DON'T MISS ANOTHER EPISODE

The Rambam is arguably the most famous Jew of the last two thousand years.

But do we really know him? Who were his family? Did he have enemies? And why did he write the 13 Principles of Faith?

Two prominent Jews in Parliament, the sinking of the Titanic and insider share trading made up the ingredients of a scandal that threatened the foundations of the UK Government - 2/2.

His arrival to England was accompanied both by miracles and threats. Soon thereafter he was elected as the Av Beis Din in London, where he faced many battles: the non-religious lay leadership, the dangers of the Blitz during WWII and a family that was becoming fragmented. His tenacity and resilience saw him succeed and his influence on British Jewry extends to the present day.

Moving to Eretz Yisrael in 1951 brought new challenges and new opportunities for Torah. However his son Chimen was an enigma to the end; a genius who fought for the Jews but lost his Judaism.  

Summary

This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Dayan Abramsky, a prominent Jewish leader in London during the mid 20th century. It explores his resilience through adversity, his commitment to maintaining kosher standards, and his significant role in the Jewish community during World War II. 

The discussion highlights almost miraculous escapes and the personal sacrifices made by him and his family. This conversation delves into the life and legacy, exploring the complexities of his family dynamics, particularly the ideological conflicts faced by his son Chimen, who became a communist despite his father's religious background. Anecdotes and reflections on his character and teachings provide a rich context for understanding his contributions to Jewish life and thought.

Takeaways

Dayan Abramsky was instrumental in raising the standards of Judaism in England.

Courtroom battles highlighted the importance of truth in Jewish law.

Abramsky’s family faced immense struggles during the Soviet era.

Innovative solutions were necessary to address wartime challenges.

Chimen's political journey reflects a complex relationship with his father's legacy.

influence on British Jewry is still felt today.

The contradictions in Chimen's life highlight the complexities of identity.

Chapters

00:00 The Miraculous Stories of Survival

06:35 Challenges of Jewish Leadership in London

10:51 The Fight for Kosher Standards

15:29 Courtroom Battles and Upholding Truth

17:56 Family Struggles and Personal Sacrifices

20:19 Community Engagement and Responsibilities

23:09 Innovative Solutions During Wartime

34:33 Chimen's Political Journey and Ideological Conflicts

39:34 Dayan Abramsky’s Influence and Legacy in Israel

Recorded in Jerusalem, this ground-breaking episode includes testimony based on eyewitnesses, linking together Israel’s Past, Present & Future.

Are the Settlements illegal?

Does Islam’s monotheism bring any spiritual benefit to the Jews?

Is Israel imposing Apartheid on the Palestinians in the West Bank?

What does tomorrow hold for Israel?

Link to contact Zevi Kaufman at Cedar Media Studios - https://www.cedarmediastudios.com/

Link to donate Tefillin for soldiers - https://thechesedfund.com/israelselect/tefillin?aff=HFTCP

In pursuit of profit, IBM disregarded all morals and supplied Nazi Germany with the technological capabilities to identify and pursue the Jews.

To avoid scrutiny, IBM’s transactions were carried out through neutral countries and veils of corporate secrecy.

How glorious was the Revolution and where does the Tennis Court Oath fit in? Did the Jews actually want to be emancipated? How did they cope with the Year of Terror; Were the Jews victims or collateral damage?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Story of Jewish Refugees in World War II

05:24 Joining an Elite Commando Troop

10:17 A Jewish Soldier's Encounter with Field Marshal Rommel

13:29 Obtaining Vital Intelligence for the Allies

16:57 The X-troop: Jewish Refugees Fighting Against the Nazis

21:04 Challenges and Discrimination Faced by Jewish Refugees

25:28 The Impact of Antisemitism and Propaganda

26:54 The Cruelty Faced by Jewish Refugees

29:20 The Formation of the X-Troop

30:19 Intense Training and Preparation

39:27 Crucial Roles in the D-Day Landings

45:30 Bravery and Resilience in the Face of Challenges

It has long been suspected that the BBC is anti-Israel and employs pro-Palestinian reporters and editors. But how do you prove suspicion? And how far does the betrayal go? 

Using objective forensic methodology and scientific analysis, a year long report was created by a team of researchers, spear-headed by Trevor Assesrson, that makes shocking reading and listening.

Post-interview we then spoke to Rabbi Zev Leff, Rabbi Osher Weiss and others, to determine how we should react?

https://asserson.co.uk/assersonreport/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jewish History Podcast

01:07 Media Bias and Its Impact on Jewish Identity

03:25 Interview with Trevor Asserson: Uncovering BBC Bias

05:45 The Findings of the Asserson Report

10:06 Analysis of BBC Arabic Coverage

12:28 BBC Arabic and Its Influence

17:34 The BBC's Institutional Challenges

19:30 Hamas's Strategy and Media Reporting

24:24 BBC's Institutional Bias

27:14 Freedom of Information and BBC Accountability

32:20 Public Awareness and Criticism of the BBC

39:37 The Challenge of Objectivity in Reporting

40:34 Funding and Support for Continued Research

46:34 Conclusion and

Call to Action

What would you do if you were told a truth which you could not do anything about, but which would change lives forever?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

07:41 Shul as a Place of Assembly and Governance

14:13 Challenges in Shul Expansion and Renovation

29:14 Ownership and Rights of a Community in a Shul

38:13 The Changing Dynamics of Shuls and the Role of Trustees

An Italian emigre, a wandering Prince & a vacant Polish throne. The making of a true legend. Alongside a Jewish Parliament & money lending made halachic.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jewish History Podcast

02:51 The Importance of Understanding Jewish History

06:12 Effie's Insights on Rabbi Hirsch's Work

07:05 Introduction to the Jews of Vienna

08:33 Vienna's Jewish History and Community Dynamics

10:29 Legal Status and Assimilation of Jews in Vienna

13:52 The Rise of Jewish Influence in Vienna

18:10 Anti-Semitism and Jewish Integration in Society

21:06 The Complex Relationship Between Jews and Non-Jews

24:00 Political Anti-Semitism and Its Consequences

26:25 Internal Anti-Semitism and Community Dynamics

28:45 The Crisis of Assimilation and Political Zionism

30:13 Jewish Identity in Late 19th Century Vienna

32:35 Religious Reform and Resistance in Vienna

36:22 The Showdown of Reform and Orthodox Judaism

43:30 Rabbi Yosef Schmuel Bloch: A Voice Against Anti-Semitism

54:50 Vienna's Jewish Community: A Historical Overview

1855 brought a new dawn to Russia, and was embraced by many, although poverty remained a constant.

When the Czar was assassinated, all hell broke loose and the Jews were given a stark reminder of their status. By 1897 Socialism, Zionism & Emigration seemed to offer the only routes out.

Chapters

00:00 The Shift in Jewish Education and Identity

01:46 The Impact of Tsar Alexander II's Reforms

06:40 The Rise of Jewish Assimilation and National Pride

12:46 The Economic Divide Among Jews

18:02 The Harsh Realities of Poverty in the Pale

22:34 The Reversal of Reforms and Growing Tensions

25:48 The Generational Divide and Revolutionary Movements

28:37 The Anarchist Campaign Against the Tsar

33:24 The Assassination of Tsar Alexander II

36:46 The Aftermath: Repression and Pogroms

41:04 The May Laws and Their Impact on Jewish Life

49:14 The Rise of Jewish Nationalism and Emigration

54:55 Historical Memory and Current Events  

Monarchy and Power have bred controversy throughout the centuries.

Jews were often impacted by association: the Abarbanel in Portugal, Richard the Lionheart & advice from a Chief Rabbi.

Egypt dominates international sea trade, and the Jews share the success.

But Women's Rights are on the agenda, the Chief Rabbi is taken to court and egos get in the way of truth.

During the dark years, in the most unexpected places, there were individuals who turned the tables on the nazis. At great personal risk they made a difference.

The origins of Venetian Jewry start more than 150 years before the Ghetto was opened.  What went wrong? What brought the Jews back?

And how did Shakespeare’s Shylock operate in the enclosed ghetto of Venice?

A moving, personal first-hand account of trial, tribulation and faith. Recorded live at the JLE.

Chapters

00:00 The Kidnapping of Ori Danino 03:29 The Search for Ori 05:24 Ori's Heroic Actions 08:08 The Power of Emunah 09:32 Seeing Hashem in Difficult Times 12:12 The Unexplainable Nature of the War 13:47 Praying and Believing in Hashem 15:53 A Message to Ori 17:20 Coping with Disappointment 18:44 The Impact of Ori's Story 19:43 The Power of Emunah from Generations Past 23:40 A Call to Prayer

(To book the Provence trip with Rabbi Tatz & Rabbi Hersh - email giana.elav@gmail.com)

Jewish leadership found itself in a crisis post-1881, affecting not only their options but their identity. In response, Rabbis turned to the international community for help, especially from  non-Jewish politicians.

This period was exacerbated by the publication of the infamous Protocols of the Elders of Zion and the notorious Kishinev pogrom of 1903, which was followed by the abortive 1905 Revolution.

As a conclusion, the podcast also defines the historical context of Jewish suffering and the cycle of Jewish history.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Jewish Suffering Through History

02:54 The Impact of the May Laws and Pogroms

05:53 The Shift in Jewish Identity and Response

09:05 The Role of Rabbinic Leadership During Crisis

12:08 International Responses to Jewish Persecution

15:00 The Kovner Circle and Smuggling Information

18:04 The Aftermath of Pogroms and Changing Policies

20:46 The Protocols of the Elders of Zion and Its Legacy

27:53 The Systematic Transition to Violence

30:47 The Rise of Revolutionaries and the 1905 Uprising

36:32 Understanding Jewish Suffering Through History

39:27 Insights on Divine Purpose and Jewish Existence

51:10 The Cycle of Jewish History and Its Lessons

Surrounded by Mystery, Mysticism & Folklore…

But what was his name? Why did he leave Nikolsburg? And why was his very legitimacy questioned?

They ruled for 100 years after the Chanukah events and then suddenly disappear from history. How? Who were they?

And where do the Saducees & Idumeans fit into the picture?

Chapters

00:00 The Church's Denial and Defense

04:19 Suppression of the Draft Encyclical

16:17 Treatment of Jewish Children in Convents

25:43 Collaboration with the International Red Cross

28:06 Complicity and Deficient Moral Map

30:30 Complicity of the Red Cross and the Catholic Church

38:39 The Role of the Red Cross in Aiding Nazis

46:10 The Vatican's Opposition to the Nuremberg Trials

54:39 Positive Contributions of the Red Cross and the Church

“Times are a Changing” and change brought a clash between Kabbala & Halacha, Orthodoxy & Reform, The New World & The Old.

The Gold Rush brought thousands of Jews from all over the world to the untamed Wilderness of the West, arousing the interest of the Rothschilds, Strauss and the Orthodox community of Jerusalem.

Travelers often leave imprints, but perhaps none as mysterious or eye-opening as a Jewish explorer in the 9th century. An enigma which will very probably impact events at the End of Time. And of course there is the matter of the elephant in the room

In 1665 Shabbetai Zvi is declared the Messiah across the Jewish world. Entire communities and their rabbis eagerly anticipate the final revelation in 1666 - Jewish blood will be avenged.

Christians are in shock while the Moslem world awaits instruction from the Turkish Sultan.

Having conquered much of Europe, Napoleon turned his attention to the Jews. Not by request but by demand; to make Jewish law compatible with France’s constitution. The rabbis walked a tightrope to respond. And of course there’s the matter of 10,000s of documents that disappeared. How justifiable was it?

Two prominent Jews in Parliament, the sinking of the Titanic and insider share trading made up the ingredients of a scandal that threatened the foundations of the UK Government - Part 1 of 2

In Eastern Europe quacks and soothsayers were in abundance, as were invented remedies whilst the Ottoman Empire provided refuge from Spain but came with its own risk.

But do the best doctors end up in Hell according to Jewish tradition? Can one give a vaccine that also kills people? And may one smoke on Shabbos to perform better surgery?

Chapters

00:00 The Landscape of Medical Practice in 18th Century Russia

02:55 The Role of Jewish Physicians in Europe

05:52 The Influence of Jewish Medical Practitioners in the Ottoman Empire

12:08 Challenges Faced by Jewish Physicians in France and Germany

18:00 The Ethical Dilemmas of Medical Practice

27:04 Reflections on the Medical Profession and Its Perception

27:50 The Weight of Medical Decisions

28:47 Personal Anecdotes and Cultural Reflections

32:31 Halachic Insights in Medical Practice

34:23 Ethical Dilemmas in Medicine

40:12 The Role of Transparency in Medical Decisions

41:20 Halachic Questions in Medical Scenarios

When the Holocaust ended, the Jews awaited justice. Sadly it would be denied to them.

But one man - a Jew names Ben Ferencz - made it his business to bring at least some of the Nazi murderers to trial and make Germany pay.

This is his story, and the untold story of so many others.

The revenge of an apostate Jew and the clash of Politics, Religion and Money over a library valued in the millions. 

Why was Sir Moses Montefiore in Malta for Tisha B’Av?

Who wrote the poem Bli Mazal (Out of Luck)?

Which British politician suggested in 1841, that the Jews create an independent State?

What made London famous in 1159?

Whom did Rabbeinu Tam bow to?

How did Chasidus survive excommunication? Who really led the movement?

And how did 1772 affect all of Eastern Europe for the next 150 years?

The 17th century provided plenty of Jewish drama - much of it unfortunate.

But no individual lived through more personal twists and turns than Rabbi Yehuda Aryeh Mi’Modena. Respected and reviled, acclaimed and attacked both during his lifetime and beyond… he remains an enigma to this day.

Who were the Kapos? Listen to an unknown story of tragedy and heroism. A Kapo in Auschwitz. A family pulled apart. A truth eventually uncovered.

What is the price of crime and who should it be paid to?

A topical and controversial insight into post-war payments from Germany and subsequently from Switzerland. Personal accounts, documented events & international demands.  

Heroism took on many forms during the Holocaust, collective & individual, spiritual & armed.

But the choice to live a double life meant choosing to live with the constant fear of betrayal.

This is the story of Helene’s choice.

It took enterprise to survive in the early years, with some taking their 'careers' to an extreme. But The Forverts was always around to offer advice - some of it decidedly UnOrthodox

Refugees arrived in Egypt from Toldeo in 1459, with ideas of their own.

But as the centuries progressed, the Karaites spread out from the Middle East. Crimea became the headquarters of the movement.

However Abraham Firkowitz had his own ideas about history, in which facts did not necessarily feature. Although St. Petersburg owes him a continuing debt of gratitude.

Chapters

00:00 Quarrel between Karaites and Rabbinites in 1833

03:17 Karaites in Egypt in the mid-1400s

06:05 Karaites and Rabbanites in 1465

07:01 Karaites seeking religious answers from Muslim jurists

08:30 Karaites' status as Jews

10:22 Karaites in Crimea and Eastern Europe

13:17 Karaites in Crimea in the late Middle Ages

19:33 Russian rule over Crimea and discriminatory laws

20:58 Avram Firkovich and his forgeries

25:35 Firkovich's influence and success

36:29 Firkovich's efforts and legacy

Is there an international Jewish conspiracy?

Why did England's Jews move away from Orthodoxy without Haskallah or Reform.

Were Jews involved in crime during the 1700s? And who was the Jewish wife of the P.M.? 

Despite the enormous amount of evidence to the contrary, Holocaust denial persists in both the Western world and the Middle-East, causing tremendous pain to survivors and the Jewish People.

What are their claims and how do we combat them?

A must listen!

What rights to land did Jews have in Palestine? How does Israel explain the Deir Yassin massacre? Did they engage in ethnic cleansing of Palestinians in 1948? Should we regulate free speech of the BBC & Universities?

In the game of politics, an American passport is the ticket to freedom, but not necessarily for the Jews. And victory is often short-lived.

But who was She? The Jew described by the NY Times as the most politically powerful woman in the USA? 

Everyone is vaguely aware that alongside the destruction of Jewish lives, there was a large-scale theft of Jewish assets.

However the details and amounts are truly shocking as was the behaviour of certain individuals and countries. 

In 1944 X-troop were fighting in France.

With heavy losses and secret identities, some of them would tragically be buried under a cross.

By 1945 they had made their way to Germany, always searching for family members who may have survived, even if this required driving across no-man’s land into enemy territory.

When the war ends, they begin a new mission, rooting out Nazis in Germany & Austria. But Judgement is hard to come by.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: X-Troop's Mission

17:24 Finding Family: Ron Gilbert's Search

25:01 Manfred Gantz's Journey to Terezin

31:41 Rescuing Family: The Personal Mission of the X-Troop

38:00 Post-War Challenges and Denazification

44:43 Bravery and Resilience: The Legacy of the X-Troop

49:58 Conclusion: Lessons from the Holocaust

Hungary changes from being Pagan to becoming Christian in the 11th century.

How did this affect the Jews? What was the Jewish Prefect? Who was Shlomo Seneor? And where is Ofen?

To Go or Not to Go - that was The Question. Although the German Jews got there first, as did Jewish America’s first congressman (1845-1851), only to be committed later to an asylum for the insane.

Jews existed there continuously for 1,500 years; at one point being forced into the only four ghettos in France. 

Neither Ashkenaz nor Sefarad, they produced some of the greatest scholars of the era. Who were they? How did they survive the storms for so long? And at what cost?

Why would the King of Poland order Jews to buy Sefarim? What was so unusual about Yiddish printing…. and did The Queen live because of a 1938 blessing?

Invited to settle by William the Conqueror, when Winchester was the capital city, the 220 year history of Jews in England is seen as a narrative of money-lending and expulsion.

But the real story is far more gripping. Jews settled across the Land, becoming the wealthiest in the process. Women were advisors to the royal court and an ancient Roman gold coin ended up in Britain, along with its invaders.

Summary

This conversation explores the complex history of Jewish life in medieval England, focusing on the arrival of Jews, their integration into society, the role of moneylending, and the significant figure of Licoricia of Winchester. It discusses the impact of royal decrees on Jewish autonomy, the influence of the church, and the tragic end of Licoricia, while also reflecting on the evolving roles of Jewish women during this period.

Takeaways.

Jews became wealthy within 60 years of arriving in England.

Licoricia of Winchester was a prominent Jewish businesswoman.

The church played a subtle yet powerful role in Jewish life.

Licoricia's life reflects the challenges faced by Jews.

The decline of Jewish prosperity began in the 13th century. Jewish women were actively involved in business.

Chapters

00:00 The Historical Context of Jewish Life in England

02:48 The Roman coin that arrived from Judea in 71CE

06:01 The Role of Jewish Moneylending in English Society

18:51 Licoricia of Winchester: A Case Study

24:50 The Church's Influence on Jewish Life

28:03 The Aftermath of Licoricia's Life

40:47 Conclusion: Reflections on Jewish History in England

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:26 The Historical Context of Money in Jewish History

08:11 The Role of the Vaad Arba Arotzos in Creating the Hetter Iska Document

11:29 Navigating Financial Transactions within the Framework of Halacha

19:27 Understanding the Document

35:04 The Prohibition of Ribis (interest bearing loans)

43:18 Different Types of Hetter iska

Chapters

00:00 Challenges of 13th-Century Spain: Tensions, Wealth, and Power

03:06 Controversies in Jewish Scholarship: Philosophy and Kabbalah

08:20 Internal Conflicts and Legal Authority

15:03 Religious Challenges and the Ban on Philosophy

26:50 The Legacy of Rabbi Avraham Abulafia

48:26 Kabbalistic Techniques and Mathematics

Summary

This conversation explores significant moments in Jewish fundraising history: people, events and campaigns. It emphasizes the importance of charity and community support and delves into the historical context of Jewish fundraising efforts, particularly in the aftermath of World War II. It highlights the transformative power of community support, the guilt felt by American Jewry for not doing enough during the war, and the significant contributions made by individuals like Henry Morgenthau. The discussion also touches on the evolution of fundraising methods, including the rise of online platforms that democratize giving. Halakhic perspectives on fundraising practices are also explored, such as revealing names of donors and repayments for loans

Takeaways

WWI brought various Jewish organisations together to help Jews internationally.

Rabbi Elya Chaim Meisels played a crucial role in building Lodz's infrastructure and exemplified selflessness.

The Ponovezher Rov's efforts saved many lives during the war.

True fundraising requires a deep understanding of the cause.

Building a future is more important than memorializing the past.

The impact of individual donors can transform communities.

Historic fundraising campaigns have shaped the Jewish community's response to crises. The ongoing struggle for Jewish survival is echoed in historical fundraising efforts.

Halakhic issues play a crucial role in the ethics of fundraising.

Online fundraising has transformed how charities engage with donors. 

Chapters

03:03 Fundraising History: A Chilly Evening in Chicago

10:36 Rabbi Elya Chaim Meisels: His foresight and his support of scholars, trade unionists and cholera victims

16:53 The Ponovezher Rov: Resilience and Courage After the Holocaust

29:33 Historic Fundraising Campaigns Post-WWII

33:25 Guilt and Responsibility in Fundraising

39:13 The Fight for a Jewish State and Golda Meir’s financial campaign

43:57 Halakhic Fundraising Dilemmas

51:01 The Evolution of Online Fundraising

54:45  Win the chance to introduce a History for the Curious Podcast

Why was Chassidus such a radical movement? Who gained from 1772? Why was the Mezericher Maggid the chosen successor?

A Seder during the Civil War - a Forged Haggada - Questions in Siberia - Which Spouse is Maror?

Chapters

00:00 The Struggle Against Forced Assimilation

02:55 The Role of Informants in Jewish Communities

05:47 The Consequences of Informing

08:51 The Murder of Informers and Community Response

15:01 The Rizhner's Imprisonment and Escape

21:11 The Clothing Decree and Its Implications

30:38 Resistance to Assimilation and Clothing Laws

37:55 Impact on Women and Family Dynamics

44:33 The Role of Sir Moses Montefiore

52:40 Continuing Challenges in the Russian Empire

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Rabbi Akiva Eger

13:46 Rabbi Akiva Eger's Role During the Cholera Epidemic

27:09 Conflict with the Community and the Hospital Management

35:31 The Accuracy of Portraits Depicting Rabbi Akiva Eger

38:49 Legacy and Impact of Rabbi Akiva Eger

In 1789, the French proclaimed liberty to all their citizens including the Jews of France.

Except that Jews hadn’t been allowed in the country since 1394 – so who was actually emancipated? Why was Metz so important? What happened to Sefardi arrivals into the country?

And in the battle between the King and Strasbourg, whose side were the Jews on?

Czar Nicholas hated Jews and Judaism in equal measure. He initiated 600 decrees against them over a 30 year period, and destroyed community life in Russia. The terror of his reign is relieved only by the faith and courage of families across the Pale of Settlement, carried out in defiance of the secret police and of Jewish informants. 

Chapters

00:00 The Jewish Plight in the Russian Empire

02:54 Russian Policies and Jewish Resettlement

06:05 Nicholas I and the Cantonist Decree

08:57 The Impact of Conscription on Jewish Families

12:00 The Agony of Jewish Children in the Army

14:54 The Struggles of Jewish Identity and Survival

18:08 The Role of Informers and Community Dynamics

21:01 Resistance and the Response of Jewish Leaders

26:25 The Impact of the Cantonist Decrees

32:10 The Struggle for Jewish Identity

34:26 Nicholas I's Repressive Policies

36:51 Censorship and Cultural Suppression

39:43 The Role of Hevras in Jewish Life

40:40 Cohesion Amidst Oppression

44:50 The Irony of Forced Preservation

45:41 Educational Reforms and Their Consequences

53:08 Moses Montefiore's Visit to Russia

54:51 Reflections on Suffering and Resilience

WWI was a catastrophic event for the Austrian Empire, and the Jews immediately became unwelcome residents. 

When the Chancellor was assassinated it seemed that time was running out. However, Vienna still played host to important people and events in the inter-war years.

The Chortkover Rebbe, the founding of Daf Yomi and a Zionist Congress. And then there was the unusual visit of the Lubavitcher Rebbe in 1903

Chapters

00:00 The Rise of Anti-Semitism in Pre-War Austria

02:55 World War I: A Turning Point for Austrian Jewry

06:05 Post-War Challenges: Economic Hardships and Scapegoating

08:55 The Emergence of Political Anti-Semitism

11:48 The Role of Universities in Anti-Semitic Sentiment

15:02 The Zionist Congress and Public Demonstrations

17:54 The Impact of Anti-Semitism on Jewish Identity

21:13 Conclusion: Lessons from History

26:35 The Rise of Anti-Semitism in Austria

29:50 Unexpected Allies: The Christian Social Chancellor

32:11 The Complex Relationship Between Jews and the Austrian Government

35:34 Internal Divisions Within the Jewish Community

39:17 The Role of Religious Leadership in Vienna

43:10 The Influence of the Chotkver Rebbe

50:11 The Encounter Between Freud and the Lu

bavitcher Rebbe

Yishamel’s 3rd power is their veneration of martyrdom. Our spiritual antidote, is Mesiras Nefesh.

Although this includes self-sacrifice and is often translated as giving up one’s life, it is actually life-giving and forms the pillar of the survival of the Jewish Nation through the ages, as Rabbi YY Jacobson explains.

In 2004 Israel was prosecuted at the ICJ for building a barrier through the West Bank. But Israel didn’t bother to turn up. What changed in 2024? 

Why did South Africa in particular, take the lead against Israel?

Why does the proportionality argument (regarding civilian casualties) not help Israel’s defense?

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection

00:38 Interview with Douglas Murray

06:50 Journalistic Bias and Bigotry

09:40 Media Coverage of Israel-Palestine Conflict

11:37 Displacement of Israeli Families

14:30 Impact of Advocacy and Truth

21:33 Denial and Response to Terrorism

22:41 Complacency and Strategic Thinking

24:35 Israel's Technological Advantages

25:24 Living with Rockets

26:21 Deprogramming Hate

27:48 Education and De-Radicalization

29:40 The Insoluble Problem

30:09 The Future of Palestine

31:28 Anti-Semitism and Humanity

32:27 Anti-Semitism on Campuses

33:20 Sinister and Stupid Anti-Semitism

34:29 The Disappearance of Adults

35:25 Liberalism and Judaism

36:18 Two Types of Liberalism

37:09 The Rise of Anti-Semitism

38:08 The Perception of Jews

39:04 The Danger of Open Borders

40:27 Anti-Semitism in Eastern Europe

41:18 Anti-Semitism and Liberalism

42:37 Anti-Semitism as a Reality

43:06 Decency and Solidarity

45:32 Running for Public Office

46:28 Supporting Threatened MPs

Why did the Russian Czar and the US army finance different printings of the Talmud over the course of a century?

Who was the Widow Romm?

And who was the 12 year old type-setter looking for a husband?

Accused of heresy, Ramchal flees Italy to face a showdown in Germany. How is he rehabilitated, what is his legacy and what is the essence of his Mesilas Yesharim?

The Jew Bill 1753

A perfectly harmless Act of Parliament becomes the launch pad for a war against the Jews of England. In the streets, the press, and Whitehall.

Faced by a wall of opposition, Parliament moves to restrict the freedom of the Jews....  But all is far from lost.

Chapters

00:00 The Rise of the Rothschild Dynasty

02:50 The Rothschild Family Structure and Dynamics

08:56 Challenges and Triumphs in the Ghetto

11:47 The Impact of War on Rothschild's Wealth

15:07 The Role of Secrecy in Rothschild's Success

18:00 The Legacy of Charity and Community

20:54 Political Maneuvering and Emancipation

24:11 The Rothschilds and the Napoleonic Wars

26:59 The Transformation into International Bankers

33:04 The Enduring Legacy of the Rothschild Family

Summary

This conversation delves into the complexities of Jewish identity, the historical context of anti-Semitism, and the current political landscape in the West, surrounding Israel and the ICC. It explores the philosophical underpinnings of truth, the influence of Greek thought on Jewish tradition, and the dangers of assimilation. The podcast looks at the Soviet Union, the Church, Blood Libels and the recent US elections.

Chapters

00:00 The ICC and Its Jurisdiction Over Israel

02:52 Historical Context of Jewish Enmity

06:14 The Nature of Modern Anti-Semitism

09:06 The Role of Truth and Falsehood

11:59 The Intersection of Science and Religion

14:52 The Influence of Greek Philosophy

18:12 The Political Landscape and Jewish Identity

21:09 The Dangers of Assimilation

24:03 The ICC's Bias Against Israel

26:51 The Call to Action for the Jewish Community

29:45 The Importance of Truth in Jewish Life