The Rabbi's Husband (SoulShop)

Rabbi Mark Wildes, founder and director of Manhattan Jewish Experience, joins Mark to discuss Tom Brady’s preparation regimen, being the Millenials Rabbi, and why you can’t just roll into the High Holidays without some practice.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.16.19

MIchael Eisenberg, co-founder and General Partner at Aleph and author of newly released The Tree of Life and Prosperity, joins Mark to discuss being a grandfather by age 50, the pivot from mobile wealth to agricultural wealth, and the need to provide an ethical framework around business.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.25.27

Former US Ambassador to Israel David Friedman joins Mark to talk about being inspired by the Bible on a daily basis, what he learned about mankind from living in Israel, and how a nation’s greatest weakness can also be its source of strength.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.9.9-21

Rabbi Sherre Hirsch, Chief Innovation Officer at American Jewish University in LA, joins Mark to discuss what is Jewish spirituality, the experience of a 2000 person, non-Zoom Shivah, and the power of silence in the darkest moments. Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.10.2-7

Pano Kanelos, President of St. John's Annapolis, joins Mark to discuss the nature of satisfaction, growing up in a Greek diner, and how the St. John’s educational model emphasizes intellectual curiosity and humility. 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.

Tim Mackie, Chief Education Officer at the Bible Project, joins Mark to discuss his Oregonian origins, talking Leviticus at the skate park, and the Biblical sex scandal that reveals how the outsider can shape insider culture.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.38

Dr. Ruth Westheimer, Co-Author of Heavenly Sex: Sexuality in the Jewish Tradition, Holocaust Survivor, and sniper in the Israel War of independence, joins Mark to discuss her journey from being an orphan to becoming America’s sex therapist and how an age-old rabbinic text influenced her life.  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.

Rabbi Aaron Flanzarich, better known as “Rabbi Aaron,” leader of the Toronto Jewish community, joins Mark to discuss listening to the word of God throughout the day and how a part of the Bible exemplifies how God speaks consistently to each and every one of us. Follow along in Sefaria https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.7.89.

Michal Oshman, head of company culture, diversity, and inclusion at Tik Tok Europe and Author of “What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid?” shares her life’s story with Mark Gerson.  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.

Mohamad Jebara, the author of "Muhammad, The World-Changer," joins Mark to discuss the power of love emphasized in the "Song of Songs," the historical popularity of the text, and explains how it is the source of the Prophet Muhammad’s name.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Song_of_Songs

Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey joins Mark to talk about politics, Black-Jewish relations, and how Abraham's idea of hospitality continues to inspire us.   Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.18.1-10

Pastor Dumisani Washington, pastor, composer, and Founder/CEO of Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI), joins Mark to discuss being a church baby, his 5:00am trip to the Western Wall, and Moses’ failure to enter the Holy Land. Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.34

Rabbi Marc Labowitz, the leader of Temple Adath Or, South Florida Center for Jewish Renewal and a composer of over 30 original Jewish songs and melodies, joins Mark to discuss being the son of two Rabbis, the impact negative speech had on King David, and how the power of words impacts our communities today.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Psalms.34.13?lang=bi

Tucker Carlson, Fox News journalist, political commentator, and talk show host joins Mark to discuss the secrets to a long and happy marriage, the downsides of being famous, and the worst parts of being human.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.3?lang=bi&aliyot=0

Shane Williamson, the president and CEO of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, joins Mark to talk about faith, football, and the prophet Micah's vision of what God wants us to do. 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 

Rabbi Sharon Brous of LA's popular IKAR joins Mark to talk about nearly missing out on the rabbinate, making people feel welcome at synagogue, and what the Ten Commandments still have to teach us today.  Here is the link to the verse on Sefaria.com: https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.20.9-10

Dr. Mort Fridman, Past President of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), joins Mark on the podcast today. Mort has been a doctor and psychoanalyst for several decades so he brings a unique perspective to the passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark which is Micah 6:8. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Rabbi Matt Gewirtz to the podcast today. Rabbi Gewirtz began his tenure as the Senior Rabbi of Congregation B’nai Jeshurun in July 2006, and is the President of the Coalition of Religious Leaders for the State of New Jersey. He is the author of The Gift of Grief: Finding Peace, Transformation and Renewed Life after Great Sorrow, often appears as a commentator on religion on MSNBC’s ‘Morning Joe’ and CNN’s ‘State of the Union’, and has recently started his own television series as a tri-anchor of PBS’s (NJTV), ‘A Matter of Faith with an Imam, Bishop and Rabbi’. Rabbi Gewirtz has chosen 1Samuel3 to discuss with Mark today. Before summarizing the passage, Rabbi Gewirtz shares the context in which it occurs, reviews the significance of the names of those involved in the story, and explores the notions of remembering not to forget, and recognizing when you are being called as they appear in both the passage and in current times. He then explains the notion of Angels according to Jewish thinking, where such Angels can be found in the world today, and reflects upon the search for meaning and God which many people engage in as they grow older. He and Mark also share some of the ways that Jews and Christians can learn from each other and explore the contribution to healing that awakening God in people can bring, and Rabbi Gewirtz finishes by sharing two profound lessons he has learned throughout his life. As you listen in today, you will be astounded by the many lessons that are revealed in the chosen passage, you will be awestruck by the insights shared, and you will undoubtedly continue to ponder the wisdom offered here for a long time to come. Episode Highlights: Rabbi Gewirtz’s context for today’s passage and summary of the story itself The significance of the names of those involved in this story and the language of ‘calling’ Remembering not to forget Recognizing when you are being ‘called’ Angels as defined by Jewish thinking and their presence in our lives today Congregants looking for meaning, particularly on ‘the back nine’ Jews and Christians learning from each other Healing through awakening God in others Two lessons about mankind that Rabbi Gewirtz has learned Quotes: “Make sure that you never forget and you always remember God and your relationship with God.” “Sometimes…the most important thing in the world could be calling at you and…you don’t see it.” “We think that being uniquely qualified for something means that we get it on the first time.” “We are not perfect people but we have moments of perfection that represents God’s presence on Earth, and we don’t have to be that forever.” “Punctuating our life with acting in ways that perpetuate sacred moments.” “There’s something powerful about awakening God in people that does contribute to the process of healing.” “The parts of us that become angelic…exist within the layers of our imperfection.” 1 Samuel 3 Young Samuel was in the service of the LORD under Eli. In those days the word of the LORD was rare; prophecy was not widespread. https://www.sefaria.org/I_Samuel.3.1?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en Rabbi Gewirtz's Twitter: https://twitter.com/rabbimat?lang=en

Senior editor at the Washington Examiner, David Mark, joins our host for today’s episode. Among many other roles, David has also been a senior editor at Politico and at CNN Digital Politics, is the author of two books, and appears regularly as a political analyst on television, radio and other forums. The passage he has selected to discuss today is Genesis 45:5-7, which recounts one of the most famous stories in the Bible. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome his very good friend, Gordon Robertson, President and CEO of the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), to the podcast today. In addition to his CEO role, Gordon is also a co-host of CBN’s original flagship program, The 700 Club; the President of Operation Blessing, CBN’s humanitarian organization; the Executive Producer of CBN Films; and the Executive Producer of Superbook whose mission is to bring the stories of the Bible to the children of the world in their own languages. Gordon and CBN have also partnered with Mark’s African Mission Healthcare in strengthening Christian Mission Hospitals throughout Africa. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark today is Genesis 24:62-64. Gordon’s love of all things Jewish and how this love began and was reinforced through events in his life begins the conversation today. He then shares his summary of the passage, why he chose it, and how it presents what he feels is the best family in the Bible. He and Mark also discuss the differing levels of action attributed to Isaac and Rebekah, and go into great detail about the Akedah, and how it impacted all involved. The lessons Gordon has learned about mankind and the prevalence of existential loneliness throughout the world today are explored as well. Gordon’s vast amount of experience in bringing the lessons of the Bible to life are on full display as he and Mark dive deeply into this passage, mining and distilling the meaning it holds for all of us in today’s world. Episode Highlights: Gordon’s love of all things Jewish and how this love began His experience with cerebral malaria and Psalm 118 Gordon’s summary of the passage and his reasons for selecting it The best family in the Bible The contrast between Isaac and Rebekah’s level of action The Akedah and its impact upon Abraham, Isaac, and Sarah The lessons that Gordon has learned about mankind The current prevalence of existential loneliness Quotes: “To see the prayers of the generations fulfilled right before my eyes – it was a profound moment.” “I heard a voice behind me. It literally caused every cell in my body to vibrate.” “Salvation is of the Jew.” “You see a generational transfer…how very much the covenant of God is transmitted through family generation.” “It teaches all we need to know about what to look for in a spouse.” “True love deepens with commitment.” “I’d argue it’s the best family in the Bible.” “All people everywhere wonder if there’s somebody up there, that somebody cares about them, and if there’s a way to reach Him.” “You have done more than anybody else to bring the Jewish and the Christian communities together and to show the commonalities that we have under God.” Genesis 24:62-64 Isaac had just come back from the vicinity of Beer-lahai-roi, for he was settled in the region of the Negeb. And Isaac went out walking in the field toward evening and, looking up, he saw camels approaching. Raising her eyes, Rebekah saw Isaac. She alighted from the camel https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.24.62-64 Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Rabbi Karen Glazer Perolman, Senior Associate Rabbi at Temple B’nai Jeshurun, the Temple where Mark became a bar mitzvah in 1985, joins him on the podcast today. Karen received her Masters Degree in Hebrew Literature from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR) in New York, and currently serves as Rabbi in Residence for the Rabbi Barry H. Greene Early Childhood Center and the B’nai Jeshurun Religious School. The passage she has chosen to discuss today is Ruth 1:1-18. Karen begins the conversation by sharing her summary of the passage, the significance it holds for her, and the original biblical statement of conversion to Judaism found within it. Mark recounts his experiences with missionary doctors as they exemplify the notion of opening the door to conversion, and then he and Karen examine the importance of Jewish peoplehood and unity, the welcome that converts to Judaism receive, Mark’s perspective on the answer to the intermarriage question, and how this passage presents the constitution of conversion. As with all guests, Karen concludes the episode by detailing the lessons she has learned about humankind. As you listen in, you will discover the joyful and positive nature of Judaism as it is brought to vivid life through today’s examination of this beautiful passage and its powerful message regarding conversion, welcoming, and acceptance. Episode Highlights: · Karen’s summary of the passage and its significance for her · The original biblical statement of conversion to Judaism · Mark’s experience with missionary doctors · Opening the door to conversion · The importance of Jewish peoplehood and Jewish unity · How converts to Judaism are welcomed · The answer to the intermarriage question · The constitution of conversion · The lesson about humankind that Karen has learned Quotes: “Ruth is really important because she is the ancestor of King David.” “It’s even thought that…somehow she is the ancestor of what will eventually redeem us all.” “The short story is a Jewish genre.” “Naomi was sort of her conversion teacher.” “She becomes the first convert to Judaism.” “You’re joining a people, but for the sake of something bigger, for the sake of the nation.” “We need every Jew we can get to help make our world a better place and to also strengthen Yisra'el.” “So many of these people end up converting because we make it an open environment.” “There is great power in those who come into the community who are different, and it actually shows a lot about the community if they’re able to welcome and accept someone who’s different and make it an open place.” “It’s very future-looking, it’s very hopeful, and actually, it’s very Jewish…we’re in this together.” “You can have everything you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want out of life.” “When you choose love over fear, you almost always make the best choice.” “There’s plenty in the world to be bothered by, but to be able to walk around with a sense of hopefulness, I mean, that’s about as Jewish as it gets…and that hope, I think, is what we need more than ever in this world.” Ruth 1:1-18 - https://www.sefaria.org/Ruth.1.1-18?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Ron Dermer, joins Mark for today’s episode. Born and raised in Miami Beach, Florida, Ron went on to become a graduate of both the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and Oxford University. He has been a columnist for the Jerusalem Post, and has served both as Israel’s Minister of Economic Affairs in the United States, and as one of the closest advisors to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Esther 4:14. 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

Sarah Waxman, founder of At The Well, an organization whose mission is to connect women around the world through transformative practices inspired by ancient Jewish Wisdom, joins Mark for today’s episode. Sarah brings the same resiliency, persistence, and ability to create belonging and community that she demonstrated as a two time National Lacrosse Goaltender of the Year to her current work with At The Well and discusses this noble work with Mark today. They begin by exploring At The Well and its mission and reach throughout the world. They also discuss the Mikvah experience, how it helps people with modern challenges, the important role that water plays in Torah and in Sarah’s life, and the lessons Sarah has learned about mankind in her years since founding At The Well. Sarah’s vision of Judaism becoming a tool to help people heal and transform is truly coming to fruition through her work, and you will undoubtedly find her conversation with Mark today about this work is as inspiring as it is educational. Episode Highlights: At The Well and its mission and reach throughout the world The Mikvah experience, its spiritual effects, and how it helps address modern challenges The importance of water in Torah and in Sarah’s life and how she became involved with the Mikvah What takes place in a Mikvah Two things that Sarah has learned about mankind in years with At The Well Quotes: “The core of our work is promoting the ritual of Rosh Chodesh, which means new moon.” “Each Well Circle becomes its own community that’s a part of a larger community, almost a society.” “You go in hoping to transform, and the Mikvah is there to move you from one place to the next.” “Water is something that can give life and that can give rebirth.” “This is a new time, and it’s important that we bring our traditions forward, too.” “A Mikvah is one of the ten things that declares a community Jewish.” “For me in my life, you know someone like many women and girls in this country who’ve suffered tremendously from body dysphoria…this invitation to connect my body and my soul together through water, and through ritualizing that connection, gave me a lot of hope.” “The best book club of all time is how I think of Torah.” The traditional Mikvah Blessing Baruch ata adonai eloheinu melech ha-olam asher kid-shanu b’mitzvo-tav v’tzi-vanu al ha-tevilah. Blessed are You, Adonai, Ruler of the Universe, Who has sanctified us with mitzvot and commanded us concerning immersion. Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en At The Well homepage: https://www.atthewellproject.com/

Mark’s guest this week is the award-winning author and writer, Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg. Danya is the author of numerous books, including Surprised By God: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Religion, and has written for The New York Times, The Atlantic, Salon, Time, and Newsweek, among many other publications. She currently serves as Scholar in Residence at the National Council of Jewish Women, and the passage she has chosen to discuss today is Exodus 32, the story of the golden calf. Danya begins by offering a very animated summary of the passage, its context, and its significance for her, which leads to a look at the different interpretations of Aaron’s actions within the passage. She and Mark then delve into the details of Moses’ involvement, the character of God in the Torah, and Danya’s perspective on the failure of adaptive leadership demonstrated in this text. They also examine the potential reasons for Aaron’s inability to ‘meet the moment’, the difference between leaders who give people what they want as opposed to what they need, and Danya concludes by sharing the lessons she has learned about humankind which relate directly back to the chosen passage. Episode Highlights:  · Danya’s summary of the passage, its context, and its significance for her · Interpretations of Aaron’s actions within the passage · One of Moses’ greatest moments · The character of God in Torah · The failure of adaptive leadership in both this passage and today’s world · Why Aaron didn’t ‘meet the moment’ · Leaders who give people what they want vs. what they need · The lessons about humankind that Danya has learned Quotes: “This is one of these great moments that gets cited as to how we understand what a prophet is.” “If You do that, blot me out of Your Torah.” “This is a picture of God that is constantly learning and growing and changing.” “I believe the pronoun for God is God, because God is not a ‘dude’.” “I think the golden calf story is a story about the failure of adaptive leadership.” “Major change always involves loss, and adaptive leadership is about helping people to bridge that gap.” “The substitute teacher got kids who had way bigger needs than he expected and he didn’t meet the moment.” “Your need is legitimate and let’s find a healthy way to help you express it.” “We need to find a new way of coping to meet this moment.” “It’s…potentially, you know, an adaptive leadership moment.” “People need to hear, ‘You’re not bad’.” “Clean up your mess!” “Doing the hard work then makes you free.” “I don’t think you can read ‘The Golden Calf’ without talking about trauma.” “It’s not somebody’s fault if they don’t have tools.”  ] 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

Jon Steinberg, one of Mark’s favorite cigar smoking companions, is the very special guest on this week’s episode. Currently the president of Altice News and Advertising, Jon is also the founder of Cheddar, the leading Post Cable Networks company. Previously, he had been the Chief Executive Officer of DailyMail.com North America, and the President and Chief Operating Officer at BuzzFeed, and is widely considered one of the world’s great media entrepreneurs. Jon has chosen a rabbinical commentary by Rebbe Maharash, L’chatchila Ariber, to discuss with Mark today. 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

One of America’s leading public intellectuals, John Podhoretz, joins Mark on today’s podcast. In addition to contributing to various publications from the Wall Street Journal to the Weekly Standard, serving as speechwriter for two American Presidents, and appearing as a political commentator on CNN and Fox News, John has, for the past 11 years, been the editor for Commentary magazine, one of the most important sources of ideas in the digital world. He is also a Rabbi’s son-in-law, and his friendship with Mark goes back 25 years, when Mark served as an intern for him. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Genesis 34. John starts off by explaining how he has worked to maintain the quality of Commentary into the digital age, and offering his summary of today’s passage. He and Mark then explore the concept of peace through strength evident in the passage, the differing views of the events within it, the beauty of the Bible, and the significance of its identification the ‘thing that must not be done’. They also review the sophistication and moral seriousness of the Torah, and John shares the lessons about mankind which he has learned, including the central difference between conservatives and liberals. Listen in today, and enjoy this enlightening conversation between these two great thinkers as they reaffirm the power and the eternal influence of the Torah. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Mishy Harman, Co-Founder, Host and Executive Producer of ‘Israel Story’, to the podcast today. Essentially an Israeli version of ‘This American Life’, ‘Israel Story’ chronicles the story of Israelis, including Eli Beer of United Hatzalah, and has hundreds of thousands of listeners in over 190 countries around the world. Mishy is a Jerusalemite who has served in the IDF, graduated from Harvard, and received his Ph.D at the Hebrew University. He has chosen ‘one of the great passages of the Bible’, Genesis 7-8, to discuss with Mark today. Mishy begins by sharing his summary of the passage, its significance for him, and some examples of flood stories from other cultures. He and Mark then explore God’s reason for choosing Noah, the sources of this story, Noah’s righteousness and his response to God, and the notion of walking ahead of God rather than with Him. They also examine why God doesn’t destroy everyone in this story, and what would be put in the ark these days. Mishy draws the conversation to a close by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind, along with examples of these lessons, and the ways that people can surprise us. As Mark states, this is an ‘awesome and eternal passage which continues to yield lessons every time anyone studies it’, and today’s episode offers a prime example of this fact. Episode Highlights: · Mishy’s summary of the passage and why it’s significant for him · Flood stories from other cultures · Why God picks Noah · The sources of the Noah story · Noah’s righteousness and his response to God · Walking ahead of God · Why God doesn’t destroy everybody and start over · What would we put in Noah’s ark today? · The lessons that Mishy has learned about humankind · Examples which illustrate these lessons · Being surprised by people Quotes: “In many ways, the ark is a Voyager.” “It’s kind of a collective reward, really. They, and we as an extension, are reaping the benefits of Noah being righteous.” “God gave us the gift of creation and of re-creation, but that gift is in words, and Noah never uses them.” “He’s waiting for Noah to, sort of, pushback, and then nothing happens?” “It is so hard to be a good person in a bad culture.” “He never inspires anybody.” “God’s waiting for an argument that never comes.” “There’s something, sort of, I think, similarly beautiful about that kind of hopefulness that comes out of this mass destruction.” “God loves diversity, properly understood.” “God said He won’t destroy the world again, but He doesn’t say ‘You won’t’. It’s an ominous passage, particularly for the atomic age.” “We have indeed subjugated the entire planet to our purposes, and that is leading us in very scary and disastrous directions.” “I’ve learned how different we all are really fundamentally, and…how similar we all are.” “What I’ve learned…is…how rarely people actually conform to these stereotypes that we apply to them.” “By stripping the visual element and just hearing a voice, it allows you to actually listen to what people are saying, and not have it tainted by your stereotypes.”   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

Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President of Yeshiva University, is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. In addition to leading one of the premier institutions in Jewish life, Rabbi Berman has served as the pulpit Rabbi at the Jewish Center in Manhattan, and is a scholar in his own right. He also lectures widely throughout the U.S. and Israel, and has written numerous articles on subjects including current trends in Jewish thought and the future of Orthodoxy. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark today is The Akedah (Genesis 22). 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

Mark welcomes Whitney Tilson, CEO of Empire Financial Research, lifelong entrepreneur, dedicated philanthropist, and avid mountaineer, to today’s episode. As a graduate with distinction from both Harvard College and Harvard Business School, Whitney has become a prolific author, a frequent financial commentator on a variety of television networks, and has been featured on 60 Minutes, and in the Wall Street Journal and the Washington Post. While he acknowledges that he is neither Jewish nor particularly religious, Whitney has chosen Leviticus 19:16 to discuss with Mark today. In this discussion, Whitney shares his personal history, his connection to the Jewish faith, and just why the selected passage is so relevant to his life, particularly during 2020. He goes on to describe his work with the evangelical Christian organization, Samaritan’s Purse, the lasting friendships he made there, and his choice to set aside differences in order to work with them for a greater purpose. Whitney finishes by exploring the lessons he has learned about mankind, in particular, the notion of playing defense in life and marriage, and the importance of engaging and responding in positive ways in relationships. Today, you have the unique opportunity to meet and listen to Whitney Tilson - a man who has lived the very scripture passage he has selected, a man who has risen to his mother’s challenge of taking his good fortune and making the world a better place, a man whose story brings to life the timeless instructional and inspirational nature of the Torah. Episode Highlights: Whitney’s personal history Why today’s passage has been relevant to Whitney throughout his life, and particularly in 2020 Whitney’s work with Samaritan’s Purse and the friendships he made His family’s history of helping others Setting aside differences for the greater good The importance of the Bible What Whitney has learned about mankind as a leader in the investment and non-profit world Some of the messages from Whitney’s upcoming book about ‘playing defense’ Micro-interactions and engaging and responding in positive ways in marriages Quotes: “Like so many things in the Bible, it was a revolutionary idea that is now completely familiar to us.” “It felt good to try and make a difference and help my city address this terrible pandemic that killed more than 20 000 fellow New Yorkers.” “You lived this passage.” “We put our differences aside to save lives in the short term.” “You have a duty to take your good fortune and make the world a better place, and help others.” “I’m really proud of my friends and my fellow New Yorkers.” “In both cases, you refuse to stand idly by the blood of your neighbor.” “I always encourage young people…to just read broadly.” “It’s okay to take risks, but you want to have a mental framework that is focused on avoiding, to the extent possible, the big calamity.” “My observation is that people treat their spouses worse than they would ever treat most of their friends.” “We are a function of our actions, and we can control our actions.” “The chains of habit are too light to be felt until they’re too heavy to be broken.” Leviticus 19:16 Do not deal basely with your countrymen. Do not profit by the blood of your fellow: I am the LORD. https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.19.16?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark is delighted to welcome Rabbi Joshua Davidson to the podcast today. A graduate of Princeton, and, like Mark’s wife, a graduate of Hebrew Union College as well, Rabbi Davidson is currently the Senior Rabbi of Congregation Emanu-El of the City of New York, having previously served as senior rabbi of Temple Beth El of Northern Westchester in Chappaqua, New York. He is involved in numerous social justice issues and organizations, and, in 2009, was honored for his interfaith efforts by the Westchester Jewish Council and the AJC. On today’s episode, Rabbi Davidson has chosen to discuss Genesis 18 and Genesis 22 and the relationship between them. Throughout the episode, the Rabbi offers both his summary of these passages as well as his perspective on their various lessons and interpretations. Touching upon such notions as God’s love of a good argument, what God and Abraham teach each other, and the differences between the public and private aspects of both righteousness and the lives of public figures, he and Mark highlight the dual elements of Abraham’s personality and what we can learn from it. As you listen in, you will quickly discover that the analysis of these two seminal passages of the Torah here today, by these two insightful seekers of biblical truth, truly brings to life ‘both their depth and their relevance to our present struggles, challenges, and opportunities’. Episode Highlights: · Rabbi Davidson’s summary of the passages, how they relate, and their significance for him · God’s love of a good argument · Abraham stepping out of comfort to argue with God · What God and Abraham are teaching each other · Privately righteous and publically righteous people · Public figures and their private lives · Some different interpretations of the Akedah · The multiple potential lessons from it · The dual elements of Abraham’s personality · The lessons that Rabbi Davidson has learned about humankind  Quotes: “Even though Abraham is a junior partner in the project of teaching humanity, Abraham is still a partner.”  “This is the greatest act of hutzpah in human history.” “Of course, there were 10 righteous people.” “The story of Sodom and Gomorrah is our admonishment against this sense that what’s happening within our city, within our country, doesn’t have anything to do with us.” “The difference in his behaviors in the two passages is extraordinary.” “No passage in the Bible’s been studied more than this one…it’s a terrifying passage.” “You’ve got to take care of your own family, too.” “We ground our leadership in our relationships with those closest to us.” “Abraham may, in fact, be testing God.” “I think the writers of the Bible placed it in the Torah as a polemic against child sacrifice.” “The Bible has always been countercultural.” “We project onto God what we believe to be right and what we believe to be wrong.” “There are fundamentalists who use religious tradition to commit heinous crimes.” “The private mess and the public hero, and the complicated father we have.” “Our public figures and our patriarchs – these are not perfect people.” “The Bible was either written by God or an anti-Semite because no people would write their own history this way.” “People will always try to do the right thing.” “They don’t know that they’ve got that strength until they find themselves in that position.”   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

Joining Mark on today’s episode is his friend of 30 years, Pastor Jason Poling, an Anglican Priest serving at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Baltimore who has 20 years of serving in Pastoral Ministry. Today, Jason and Mark discuss Leviticus 10:1, The Strange Fire. After providing the context for this passage, Pastor Jason offers his perspective on the sin of Nadab and Abihu, and Mark shares his views on it as well. This passage is very special to the Pastor, and he explains the reasons why, and also introduces two things he has learned about mankind during his many years of service. Distinguishing between religious enthusiasm and religious extremism, exploring the human capacity for self-deception, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining civilization are just some of the themes running through this thought provoking and informative episode, rendering it highly relevant given the state of our world today. Episode Highlights: The context of Leviticus 10:1 Perspectives on Nadab and Abihu’s sin Why this passage is so special to Pastor Jason Two things that he has learned about mankind during all his years in Pastoral Ministry Quotes: “I think here we see some early religious extremists, and what happens to them.” “They probably joined a cult where they didn’t get married, didn’t have kids, drank too much, and brought an alien or strange or prohibited fire to the altar.” “We have to make a distinction between religious enthusiasm…and religious extremism.” “The human capacity for self-deception is far beyond what most of us appreciate.” “Civilization is a gift that we have to cultivate, we have to maintain.” Leviticus 10:1-2 Now Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu each took his fire pan, put fire in it, and laid incense on it; and they offered before the LORD alien fire, which He had not enjoined upon them. And fire came forth from the LORD and consumed them; thus they died at the instance of the LORD. https://www.sefaria.org/Leviticus.10.1-2?lang=bi&aliyot=0 Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Prosecutor, professor, and proven criminal justice reformer, Tali Farhadian Weinstein, is Mark’s guest on the podcast today. Tali came to America as a refugee in 1979, having fled the violence and ant-Semitism of revolutionary Iran, and went on to earn degrees from Yale College, Oxford University where she was a Rhodes Scholar, and Yale Law School. She has served as a Law Clerk for Judge Merrick B. Garland at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, at the U.S. Supreme Court for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, and most recently as the General Counsel of the Brooklyn District Attorney’s Office. She has taught immigration law and policy at Columbia Law School, is currently Adjunct Professor of Law and Adjunct Professor of Clinical Law at NYU Law School, and is also running for the position of Manhattan District Attorney, for which she has the full support of the Rabbi’s Husband. Tali has chosen the Talmudic text, Bava Metzia 30b, to discuss with Mark today. 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

Leading political scientist and distinguished Jewish communal leader, Dr. Andrew Rehfeld, joins Mark on the podcast today. Andrew’s illustrious career has bridged both the academic and professional worlds as Associate Professor of Political Science at Washington University, and as President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis. He is currently the President of Hebrew Union College, which has ordained most of the Reform Rabbis in the world, including Mark’s wife. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Judges 17:6. 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

Daron K. Roberts, the founding director of the Center for Sports Leadership and Innovation (CSLi) at the University of Texas, is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. A former NFL and college coach, Daron created CSLi in the fall of 2014 as the first university-based institute dedicated to developing leadership and character curricula for high school, collegiate, and professional athletes. He teaches his ‘A Gameplan for Winning at Life’ through the Centre, and he has also launched the #iLEAD Speakers Series where he has interviewed a number of famous elite athletes and leading thinkers. The passage Daron has chosen to discuss today is Genesis 1:26. 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 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

Today’s edition of the podcast is the first to not involve a discussion of a biblical verse, but is instead a special discussion with returning guest, Ambassador Michael Oren, regarding his new book The Night Archer: and Other Stories. In addition to having served as Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Michael counts serving as a Member of Knesset and as Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office, among his many achievements. This book marks his first collection of short stories, and to make today’s episode even more special, the first 50 listeners to email daniel@therabbishusband.com will receive a copy absolutely free! 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

Mark is delighted to welcome his friend, Pastor Teo Hayashi, to the podcast today. Teo is the founder of the Dunamis Movement, a Christian student movement in universities throughout Brazil, and he also has one of the world’s greatest followings. He has been a missionary and Pastor around the world from Asia to North Carolina and now back home in Brazil, and he and Mark first met and became fast friends while in Jerusalem with Eagles’ Wings. The passage he has selected to discuss today is Esther 4:14. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Pastor Samuel Rodriguez, President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference (NHCLC), to the podcast today. In addition to his work in leading the world’s largest Hispanic Christian organization, Pastor Rodriguez is also a producer, best-selling author, civil rights activist, and television personality, who is widely regarded as one of America’s most influential voices. He has chosen a passage that Mark had not seen before, Psalms 89:15, to discuss today. 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

Boyd Matheson, opinion editor at the Deseret News, is Mark’s very special guest on today’s episode. For over 25 years, Boyd has worked as a consultant, executive strategist and performance coach with global companies, and he has also served as Chief of Staff for US Senator Mike Lee, and is the former President of the Sutherland Institute. The passage Boyd has chosen to discuss with Mark today is 1 Samuel 17:48. Boyd begins their conversation by summarizing the passage, and sharing its significance for him which is based in its lesson about the nature of true confidence. He and Mark then delve into the biblical notion of humility, the crisis in confidence in today’s world, ‘light kindlers’, and servant leadership. Boyd also relates his perspective on the source of confidence, his love, and the love of the Mormon Church, for Judaism, Russell M. Nelson and his ability to transmit confidence, and the importance of remembering and learning. After a brief discussion about the power of little things in life, Boyd concludes the episode by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind. The profound lessons offered in this short but powerful passage abound in today’s revealing and instructive conversation, holding great relevance for our world today. Episode Highlights:  · Boyd’s summary of the passage and its significance for him · True confidence · The biblical idea of humility · The crisis in confidence throughout the world today · ‘Light kindlers’ and sharing the light · Servant leadership · Boyd’s perspective on the sources of confidence · His love of Judaism · The importance of remembering and learning · The Mormon Church and their love of the Jewish people · Russell M. Nelson and his ability to transmit confidence · The impact of the little things in life · The lessons about humankind that Boyd has learned Quotes: “The focus of this is what happens just before the battle…David ran to meet Goliath!” “To me, confidence is never arrogance.” “True confidence comes when you have respect for the challenge.” “It comes from doing the hard work and heavy lifting that happens in our homes and it happens in our communities.” “If you have to declare it, you’re not it.” “There is power and strength and energy in that meekness, that humility.” “False confidence is equally a sin.” “We all should be thankful for those ‘light kindlers’.” “A real leader lights all the others.” “Every time I share, I have more.” “It’s God’s version of a ‘triple dog dare’.” “When you know God’s with you, that’s ultimate confidence.” “No one gets a generation off.” “Elephants don’t bite, but fleas do.” “There is great good to be had in every person.” “We’re all broken a little bit differently.”  1 Samuel 17:48 When the Philistine began to advance toward him again, David quickly ran up to the battle line to face the Philistine. https://www.sefaria.org/I_Samuel.17.48?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

Senior Vice President of OpenDor Media (formerly Jerusalem U), Noam Weissman, joins Mark on the podcast today. Noam is also the host of the podcast ‘Unpacking Israeli History’, and prior to his current roles, he was the Principal of Shalhevet High School, where he taught a range of subjects, including Talmud, Tanakh, Jewish philosophy and Israel Education. Today, he has chosen two stories from Genesis, the narrative of Sodom and the binding of Isaac, as well as the connection between them, to discuss with Mark. 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/

Mark’s guest on the podcast today is his good friend Pastor Jose Diaz, whom he met two years ago as they journeyed together with Eagles’ Wings through Israel. The passage Jose has chosen to discuss with Mark is Genesis 2:3. Their conversation today revolves around the importance of the Sabbath, the difference in the way that Jews and Christians honor and observe it, and the fact that it is of paramount importance. Jose shares the struggles that Christian leaders encounter these days, and he and Mark explore the power of the Shabbat dinner for Jews and Christians alike. In essence, today’s episode is a call to understand the Torah definition of rest and to restore or maintain the sacredness of the Sabbath. Take the time today to stop, reflect, and contemplate with Mark and Jose about this first and great gift which God has given all of mankind. Episode Highlights: The Torah’s definition of rest Stopping to take account of our lives Comparing the ways that Christians and Jews honor and celebrate the Sabbath The number one thing that Christian leaders struggle with Shabbat dinner God’s gift of the Sabbath to everybody and His first lesson to humanity The purposes of the Sabbath The lessons that Jose has learned about mankind Jose’s journey to Christianity Quotes: “He creates purposeful rest.” “One day a week, I’ll only be conscious of God.” “At some point you have to stop and contemplate, “What should I do next? How could I be better?’” “The truth is this, for the most part today…I don’t believe that the biblical understanding and concept of rest, I don’t believe we’re seeing it in Christianity.” “Because the Jews kept the Sabbath, the Sabbath kept the Jews.” “If you get rid of something that’s a core part of the human experience, I think you lose a major element of what it means to be human…we’re seeing this all over the world.” “It’s as though the Sabbath is calling all of us to it, and to God.” “There’s so much more to life than what we can see right now.” “Even…the worst among us can be saved, and can be loved.” “My life was completely and radically transformed.” Genesis 2:3 And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because on it God ceased from all the work of creation that He had done. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.2.3?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark’s guest on the podcast today is author, poet, and lecturer, Erika Dreifus. Erika has earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from Harvard University, taught history, literature, and writing there for several years, is a fellow in the Sami Rohr Jewish Literary Institute, and is also an adjunct assistant professor at Baruch College of The City University of New York. The passage she has chosen to discuss with Mark is Proverbs 31:10-31. Erika begins by introducing this Eshet Hayil passage, her reasons for selecting it, its recitation on Shabbat evenings, and how she first encountered it. Mark recounts the qualities of a ‘woman of valor’ as outlined in the passage as well as Dr. Ruth’s selection of the most erotic line in all of literature which is found within it. Erika follows with the feminist perspective that her study group offers on the passage, and her poem, A Single Woman of Valor, is read and discussed. As with all guests, the podcast concludes with the lessons about mankind which Erika has learned. Today’s episode takes this ‘most frequently said…and rarely studied’ passage and finally provides it with the analysis it so richly deserves. Episode Highlights: The Eshet Hayil passage and Erika’s reasons for selecting it Its recitation on Shabbat evenings How Erika encountered it The qualities of a woman of valor as outlined in the text Dr. Ruth’s selection for the most erotic line in all of literature The feminist perspective on this passage from Erika’s study group Erika’s poem, A Single Woman of Valor The lessons about mankind which Erika has learned Quotes: “Probably the most frequently said prayer…and rarely studied.” “It essentially delineates the qualities of an ideal woman, a woman of valor.” “Always listen to one’s mother.” “It’s a really terrible melody, I think. I mean it sounds like a funeral dirge.” “I was really moved by the text itself.” “It seems to be a quintessential text of female empowerment.” “She’s an amazing woman.” “She does everything…she doesn’t sleep much.” “Dr. Ruth is the youngest 92 year old in the history of the world.” “If you stop learning and stop growing, then you basically consign yourself to a kind of death.” Proverbs 31:10-31 What a rare find is a capable wife! Her worth is far beyond that of rubies. Her husband puts his confidence in her, And lacks no good thing. She is good to him, never bad, All the days of her life. She looks for wool and flax, And sets her hand to them with a will. She is like a merchant fleet, Bringing her food from afar. She rises while it is still night, And supplies provisions for her household, The daily fare of her maids. She sets her mind on an estate and acquires it; She plants a vineyard by her own labors. She girds herself with strength, And performs her tasks with vigor. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.2.2-3?lang=bi&aliyot=0 Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

On today’s episode, Mark is joined by legendary Wall Street trader, Peter Borish. In addition to his success in business, Peter is also a founding member of the Robin Hood Foundation, an organization which funds New York City educational projects for disadvantaged children, and a founding board member of Math for America, a non-profit whose goal is to improve mathematical education in U.S. public schools. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is Leviticus 25:35-38. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome his friend, Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz, to the podcast today. Rabbi Steinmetz has been a congregational Rabbi for nearly 30 years and has previously served pulpits in Montreal, Quebec, and Mount Vernon, New York. Currently, he is the Senior Rabbi at KJ, the legendary Modern Orthodox Synagogue on New York’s Upper East Side, and he also has a blog which Mark strongly recommends, where he explains complex Jewish concepts and their very practical significance in videos and essays that can be consumed in 3 minutes or less. The passage that he has primarily chosen to discuss today is Exodus 13:2, along with others which also deal with primogeniture. 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/

Mark is thoroughly delighted to welcome Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner, Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, to the podcast today. Through his work with this Center, he engaged clergy, professional, and volunteer leaders in interfaith efforts in pursuit of social justice. Rabbi Pesner has also sat on the Boards of the NAACP, JOIN for Justice, the National Religious Partnership for the Environment, and other such organizations, and has been a congregational rabbi at Temple Israel in Boston and at Temple Israel in Westport, Connecticut. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Deuteronomy 10:18-19. 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

Mark’s friend, Representative Josh Gottheimer, joins him on the podcast today. Josh represents New Jersey's Fifth Congressional District, making him the first Democrat to represent that district since 1933, and he has been cited as one of the most centrist members of Congress, and also the most bipartisan House freshman. He is the Co-Founder and C0-Chair of the bipartisan ‘Problem Solvers Caucus’, where he works to bring a group of Democrats and Republicans together across party lines to find areas of agreement on key issues to help the American people. He has narrowed down his choices for his favorite passages to discuss today to Proverbs 29:18 and Isaiah 40:31. 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

Pastor Jerry Gillis is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. Pastor Gillis is the Lead Pastor of The Chapel, a multi-complex church network in the Buffalo area, and he is also involved with ‘Christ Together’, a network of churches which aims to ‘empower the whole Church to bring the whole Gospel to the whole nation’. The passage he has selected to discuss with Mark today is Leviticus 19:1-2. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Jonathan Goldstein to today’s episode. Jonathan is the Chief Executive and Founder of the private investment firm, ](http://www.cainint.com/)[Cain International, the Chairman of the Jewish Leadership Council, the umbrella body of British Jewry’s central organizations and charities, as well as the Chair of the Chief Rabbinate Trust. He has also served as Vice Chair of Jewish Care and Chair of Governors of Kerem School in Hampstead Garden Suburb, as Chair of Partnerships for Jewish Schools, and, with his wife, he is an inaugural Honorary President of Camp Simcha, a charity working to improve the quality of life of children suffering from life threatening illnesses. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is Genesis 18. 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 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Rabbi Angela Warnick Buchdahl to the podcast today. Rabbi Buchdahl is the first woman to serve as the Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue in New York City in its 180-year history, and she is also the first Asian American to be ordained as cantor or rabbi in North America. Having been nationally recognized for her innovations in leading worship, which draw large crowds both in the congregation’s historic Main Sanctuary and via live stream and cable broadcast to viewers in more than 100 countries, Rabbi Buchdahl is, Mark believes, the great role model of what the future of institutional Reform Judaism can be. The passage she has chosen to discuss with Mark is Deuteronomy 29:9-11. Rabbi Buchdahl begins by sharing her summary of the passage and its significance for her based upon the message of inclusion that she finds within it. She and Mark then explore the foundation of Jewish identity, the accessibility of the Torah and how to teach it, and the most important of the Jewish holidays. They also discuss the power of truly understanding the experience of the stranger, the Rabbi’s bowling alley analogy regarding parenting, and the collective redemption and order found in the Jewish faith. As is the tradition, the episode concludes with the lessons our guest has learned about humankind. As Mark notes, Rabbi Buchdahl is ‘leading American Jewry to a better, better place’, and this truth is brilliantly displayed here today as she reveals so many lessons from this relatively short but incredibly powerful passage for us all to learn and enjoy. Episode Highlights: · Rabbi Buchdahl’s summary of the passage and its significance to her · The message of inclusion within the passage · The foundation of the Jewish identity · The Torah’s accessibility for all · How to teach Torah · Rabbi Buchdahl’s advice about keeping holidays · Understanding being a stranger in a strange land · The Rabbi’s bowling alley analogy regarding parenting · Collective redemption and order · The lessons about humankind that Rabbi Buchdahl has learned  Quotes: “I spent a lot of my Jewish life feeling like I wasn’t sure that I also was really standing in Sinai like everybody else.” “Everyone brings what they have.” “If you convert to Judaism, you were at Sinai also.” “This sense of inclusion is very powerful.” “This to me is a statement of who we are as a people.” “If you want to commit to this covenant, you’re a part of our people.” “This Torah is for you. It’s for you today.” “Oftentimes, the adults learn through the children.” “There is something very deep about how you own your identity and you own your knowledge when you pass it on.” “If you actually carry that Jewish memory, like, as if it’s your memory, you cannot walk through the world in the same way.” “We taste our tears.” “We’re all born good and pure…there’s the promise that we can return to that original goodness.” “There’s no way that you can emerge from that crucible, in a sense, without being a changed person if you take Yom Kippur seriously.” “What you’re doing is what they’re going to learn.” “Every person is infinitely more powerful than they think they are.” “Every human has the capacity to change.” “The power of one person.”  Deuteronomy 29:9-11 You stand this day, all of you, before the LORD your God—your tribal heads, your elders and your officials, all the men of Israel, your children, your wives, even the stranger within your camp, from woodchopper to water drawer— to enter into the covenant of the LORD your God, which the LORD your God is concluding with you this day, with its sanctions; https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.29.9-11?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

This week, Mark is delighted to welcome Pastor Jesse Bradley to the podcast. After graduating from Dartmouth College, Jesse went on to become a professional soccer goalkeeper in Zimbabwe, Aberdeen, and Minnesota, before a life threatening illness ended his career. With his Master's Degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, Jesse is now the Pastor at Grace Community Church in Washington State, and, recently, his brilliant sermon series on the Book of Jonah caught Mark’s attention and admiration. The passage he has chosen to discuss is one of which Mark was previously unaware, The Book of Haggai. 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: 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

Dr. Yehuda Kurtzer, President of the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast this week. Yehuda is a leading thinker and author on the meaning of Israel to American Jews, on Jewish history and Jewish memory, and on questions of leadership and change in American Jewish life. He has also served as faculty member at Brandeis University, where he held the inaugural Chair in Jewish Communal Innovation. The chapter he has chosen to discuss with Mark is Jonah 4. Yehuda begins by summarizing the first three chapters of Jonah in order to set the scene for today’s passage where he and Mark share a variety of interpretations and readings of the text surrounding Jonah’s actions, attitude, and interaction with God. Essentially demonstrating that Jonah is more concerned with his own role rather than God’s bigger plan for humanity, which he seems unwilling and unable to fathom, Mark and Yehuda come to the agreement that God loves a good argument, something Jonah fails to provide, choosing rather to simply ‘check out’. Yehuda finishes by sharing the lessons he learned about humankind, and they lead to a further discussion about the split in voting habits among the Jewish people and how that relates to the whole point of a book such as Jonah’s. Today’s discussion is one in which both parties enlighten the other with variations on themes and readings, bringing the very essence of the Torah to life through questioning and challenging, precisely, as Yehuda states, ‘…what studying the Torah is supposed to get us to do’.  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

Former United States Ambassador to Costa Rica, Fitz Haney, joins Mark on today’s episode. His is a distinguished career as an international businessman at Procter and Gamble, PepsiCo Restaurants International, and Citibank and in the investment management business in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Ambassador Haney is the sole political appointee made by Barack Obama who was maintained by Donald Trump, and he and Mark are kindred spirits in the fact that they are both husbands of Rabbis. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Exodus 23:9. 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

Yael Eckstein is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. As President and CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews (IFCJ), Yael heads the leading non-profit that is building bridges between Christians and Jews, and blessing Israel and the Jewish people around the world with humanitarian care and life-saving aid. A prolific author as well, Yael has been named one of "The World's 50 Most Influential Jews" by The Jerusalem Post in 2020. The passage she has chosen to discuss today, Ezekiel 11:17, is one that is most appropriate considering the important work to which she has dedicated herself. Yael starts things off by summarizing her selected passage and describing how it represents a culmination of all her favorite Bible verses. She and Mark then explore the two different levels of Judaism, the role that this passage and others play in her life, and Ezekiel’s prophecies and what it means to be able to live out these prophecies in today’s world. Yael also offers some moving reflections on those whom her organization helps bring to Israel, her experiences with those discovering their connection to Israel, and the unprecedented level of friendship that currently exists between the Jewish people and Christians. She and Mark conclude by warmly reflecting upon the lessons they have both learned from Yael’s father, Yechiel, who was also a great friend and mentor to Mark. Equal parts instructive, inspiring and heartwarming, today’s conversation truly brings the Torah to life as it examines the privilege, opportunity, and responsibility of living out these prophecies, and how Yael and the IFCJ undertake this ‘sacred work’ each and every day. Episode Highlights:  · Yael’s summary of the passage and how it represents a culmination of all her favorite Bible verses · The two different levels of Judaism · Ezekiel’s prophecies · The role this passage and others plays in Yael’s life · The privilege, opportunity, and responsibility of living out the prophecies today · The people that Yael’s organization and donors bring to Israel · Her experience with people discovering they belong to Israel · The Jewish friendship with Christians · The lessons Yael and Mark have learned from her father Quotes:  “In order to really get much out of these biblical teachings, you have to first have faith.” “We have this amazing ability to transform the mundane into holiness.” “This specific kind of ingathering and promise from God to be returned is really where the mundane and the spiritual kiss.” “This is a new light illuminating Zion.” “We are the culmination of prayers of 2000 years of the Jewish people coming home to Israel and it’s not something to be taken lightly.” “Ezekiel says it and here we are walking it.” “God, use me in whatever way I can to be a vessel to honor You and perform Your will.” “Until you’ve been in Israel, you can’t imagine where you’re going to. They’re really coming out of faith.” “Now, we’re living in these awesome times which are very connected again to the verse of Ezekiel 11:17, and Israel being reunited.” “For the first time in history, the Jewish people have friends…millions of Christians.” “There’s a lot more of us than we think.” “Be professional…never forget that this is a spiritual mission.” “This is a sacrificial gift…this is what generosity is.” “The modern state of Israel has what we might define as spirituality, as study. But it also has the IDF, and one cannot exist without the other.” “He was the smartest guy in the room.”   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

Joining Mark on the podcast today is Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Senior Rabbi of Boca Raton Synagogue (BRS), the largest Orthodox Synagogue in the Southeast United States. In addition to his role at BRS, Rabbi Goldberg also serves as Vice President of the Rabbinical Council of America, and as a member of both the Board of Trustees of the Beth Din of America and the AIPAC National Council. He has been deeply involved in Israel in a variety of ways over many years, and his popular blog and podcast, along with his frequent contributions to Aish.com and OU.org, allow him to regularly connect with a vast number of people throughout the world. This great Torah intellectual, scholar, and communicator has selected Exodus 12:1-3 to discuss with Mark. Rabbi Goldberg begins by sharing his summary of the passage, its meaning for him, and the invitation it offers for all to interpret it. He and Mark engage in an extensive analysis of the importance of the journey in life, our spiritual antenna, Abraham’s role as the father of ethical monotheism, and the passage’s central theme of discovering yourself. They also explore the notion of running away from honor, the meaning of Genesis 12:3 to both Evangelical Christians and to the Rabbi, the sacred obligation of the Jewish people, and our ability to overcome our nature and biology. The episode draws to a close with a discussion of the relationship we have with ourselves, and, of course, with the lessons about humankind that Rabbi Goldberg has learned. As you listen in on today’s conversation, you will quickly discover precisely why so many people refer to Rabbi Efrem Goldberg as ‘a legend’, and will undoubtedly just as quickly agree with them. Episode Highlights: · Rabbi Goldberg’s summary of the passage and its meaning for him · The passage’s invitation for all to interpret · The importance of the journey · Our spiritual antenna · Abraham as the father of ethical monotheism · Discovering yourself · Running away from honor · The meaning of Genesis 12:3 to Evangelicals and to the Rabbi · The sacred obligation of the Jewish people · Overcoming your nature and biology · The relationship we have with ourselves · The lessons about humankind that Rabbi Goldberg has learned. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Jewish public intellectual, attorney and author, Jonathan Neumann, to the podcast today. A graduate of Cambridge University and the London School of Economics, Jonathan has been a fellow at Commentary magazine and has served as assistant editor at Jewish Ideas Daily. He is also the author of To Heal the World? How the Jewish Left Corrupts Judaism and Endangers Israel, and he discusses this book along with his selected passage of Numbers 14:22 with Mark here today. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome his good friend and humanitarian hero, Dr. Lance Plyler to today’s episode. As the Director of World Medical Missions for Samaritan’s Purse, Lance treats victims of war, typhoons, infectious diseases, almost anything, really, in places as diverse as, but definitely not limited to Haiti, Nepal, Liberia, and New York City. In Mark’s opinion, Lance is the star of Facing Darkness, a genuinely great documentary regarding Lance’s work in Liberia in 2014 that brilliantly demonstrates religious faith and love of God in action, and which Mark highly recommends for everyone to watch. The passage that Lance has selected to discuss is Isaiah 6:1-7. 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

The Tower of Babel Show Notes: Joining Mark this week is Rabbi Simcha Mirvis, Director of the Tsfat Legacy Center and Vice President of Education for Nachal Novea. Rabbi Mirvis has devoted his life to engaging and inspiring a diverse range of people in Israel and abroad, and is dedicated to connecting people with the soulful wisdom of Tsfat. The scripture passage which he has chosen for today is Genesis 11:3. In this episode, Mark and Rabbi Mirvis engage in a dynamic discussion which begins by looking at the Rabbi’s journey from his birthplace in Memphis to his current role at Tsfat, moves on to revealing the context of this scripture passage, and then explores the wide ranging implications and lessons to be learned from this rich text. Insights regarding technology, the relationship between the individual and society, diversity and uniformity, Abraham’s significance, and the very meaning of Babel itself abound during this fascinating and enlightening analysis. As you listen, you will discover that Mark and Rabbi Mirvis are, indeed, kindred spirits in their desire and ability to ‘unearth the practical and inspirational truth of the Torah’, and today’s episode provides a truly memorable example of this fact. Episode Highlights: Rabbi Mirvis’ journey from growing up in Memphis to his current role at Tsfat The context of Genesis 11:3 Insights from this passage regarding the ramifications of today’s technology, the relationship between the individual and society, diversity vs. uniformity, and Abraham’s significance in contrast to the tower The meaning of Babel and its significance Two important lessons that Rabbi Mirvis has learned Quotes: “Man is given the opportunity to destroy the world, create the world, do anything with the world.” “Sometimes in our effort to survive and to protect ourselves, we’re actually inflicting damage on our own future.” “Perhaps the first technological development in the history of mankind.” “Abraham was born the year the tower was built.” “In the confused heterogeneous tapestry of society, that’s where each fragment refracts a different truth of the Divine Light.” “The focus on eternal values puts everything else in perspective.” Genesis 11:3 They said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks and burn them hard.”—Brick served them as stone, and bitumen served them as mortar. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.11.3?lang=bi&aliyot=0 Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en The Tsfat Legacy Center homepage: https://www.tsfatlegacy.org/

Mark is delighted to welcome evangelist and international speaker, Pastor Nick Hall, to the podcast today. The Founder of PULSE, a movement that seeks to empower the Church and awaken the culture to the reality of Jesus, Nick also sits on the leadership teams for the US Lausanne Committee, the National Association of Evangelicals, and the student advisory team for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. He has chosen a passage that Mark had never considered before, Habbakuk 3:2, to discuss today. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Dr. Michael Helfand to the podcast today. Michael is the Vice Dean for Faculty and Research at the Caruso School of Law, Pepperdine University, and an expert on religious law and religious liberty with a particular emphasis on clashes between religion and commerce. He is a frequent author and lecturer, focusing on how U.S. law treats religious law, custom and practice, and he also serves as both an arbitrator and consultant for the Beth Din of America. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark today is actually taken from the Talmud. 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

Mark is deeply honored to welcome living legend, Pat Boone, to the podcast today. Pat is obviously one of the most successful singers in history, but he is also an actor, TV host, producer, songwriter, author, motivational speaker, TV pitchman, radio personality, record company head, TV station owner, sports team owner, family man, and humanitarian. As you will hear today, Pat is also very much one of the people most responsible for the current historic friendship between Christians and Jews centered around Israel and the Torah. Today, he and Mark discuss his love of the Torah, the Jewish people, and the Jewish State. 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

Rabbi Dr. Ari Lamm, Chief Executive Officer of the Bnai Zion Foundation, joins Mark for a lively discussion on today’s episode. Rabbi Lamm is a graduate of Yeshiva University, and has served as Special Advisor to the President of that illustrious university. He has also completed his PhD in ancient Judaism and Christianity at Princeton, and his writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The Jerusalem Post, Tablet Magazine, and First Things Magazine. The passage he has selected to discuss with Mark is Deuteronomy 4:6. Rabbi Lamm begins this discussion by sharing the context of the passage and his reasons for selecting it. He and Mark then examine the significance of Moses’ oration in Deuteronomy, how it outlines the mission of the Jewish people, and how it establishes the role of ‘wisdom and understanding’ in both religion and politics. They then explore the many ways that this passage lives on today in its call for the Jewish people to be role models for the world, the need for them to have a land in which to build and display this beacon, and they also demonstrate the influence the Bible had with America’s Founding Fathers and in the US Constitution. Rabbi Lamm finishes the episode by relating the lessons he has learned regarding mankind – lessons that present a moving tribute to the legacy of his grandfather, and which are acutely relevant to the times we are living in now. Today’s conversation is a thoughtful and dynamic analysis of no less than ‘the speech that built our civilization’, filled with the passion and insight that such a singularly formidable text requires and deserves, and one that will undoubtedly keep you thinking long after you have listened to it. Episode Highlights: The context of today’s passage and Rabbi Lamm’s reasons for selecting it The significance of Moses’ oration in Deuteronomy The mission statement of the Jewish people The role of ‘wisdom and understanding’ in religion and politics Becoming role models for the world The reason for the Jewish people to have a land The influence of the Bible on America’s Founding Fathers and the US Constitution Lessons Rabbi Lamm has learned about mankind The legacy of Rabbi Lamm’s grandfather, Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm Quotes: “Not only is this the first, as you put it, biblical commentary in history…it’s also where Moses, for the first time, defines his earlier life as a work.” “Religion practiced correctly is politics.” “What Moses is basically saying is that the Hebrew Bible itself, the Bible, is the best and most ideal expression of political life that could possibly exist.” “It means building a just and virtuous and loving society that can be a beacon of light to all the other nations of the Earth, to inspire them, not to become exactly like us, but to become the best version of themselves.” “If the US Constitution is America’s founding and binding legal founding document, then the Hebrew Bible is really America’s founding moral document.” “At the core of the human experience, the thing that will save us is the ability to laugh and the ability to smile.” “There is no limit to what you can accomplish as long as you don’t care who gets the credit.” “I find it very comforting to know that his shoulders are available for all of us to stand on.” Deuteronomy 4:6 Observe them faithfully, for that will be proof of your wisdom and discernment to other peoples, who on hearing of all these laws will say, “Surely, that great nation is a wise and discerning people.” 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

Mark’s guest on the podcast today is Pastor George Searight II, the founding Pastor of Lifetime Community Church in Orlando, Florida, and Revival City Church in New Jersey. He and Mark met about a year ago through Eagles’ Wings in Jerusalem, and Mark has enjoyed the distinct honor of speaking at Revival City Church, an experience he cherishes dearly to this day. Pastor Searight has chosen to discuss Numbers 13 with Mark today. 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

Mark is so delighted to welcome his very good friend and partner in United Hatzalah, Eli Beer, to the podcast today. As a young man, Eli identified the importance of receiving medical care within the first few minutes of an incident, and he has dedicated his life to addressing this fact, leading him to become the Founder and President of United Hatzalah. This organization now has several thousand medics throughout Israel who treat 1,900 emergency calls a day, saving easily 200 lives every day in every sector of Israeli society. The passage Eli has chosen to discuss today is his bar mitzvah portion which continues to guide his life to this day, Deuteronomy 30:19. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome his good friend, Rabbi Moshe Scheiner, to the podcast this week. Rabbi Scheiner was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, and he holds a Masters degree of Talmudic studies and Jewish philosophy from the Rabbinical College of America. He has also lectured to communities in Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Singapore, Colombia, and other communities throughout South America and the United States. In 1994, he became the founding Rabbi of the Palm Beach Synagogue, and he and Mark met almost two years ago on a United Hatzalah Mission which was the beginning of their friendship around Torah that remains to this day. The passage Rabbi Scheiner has selected for today is Genesis 45:4. After a brief discussion about Rabbi Scheiner’s practical and inspirational daily Torah reflections, the pair explore the context of today’s passage, and then embark on a remarkably insightful analysis of the text, drawing out its relevance to the present day offered from the passage and each other. They then look at the example of reframing or narrative therapy the passage offers, the impact that Joseph’s mindset has had upon future generations right up to today, and provide powerful examples both of Pope John XXlll’s reference to this text, and of being able to begin again regardless of the painful events one has endured. Rabbi Scheiner finishes by sharing the two profound lessons he has learned about mankind. As Mark states, his esteemed guest provides a ‘characteristically fascinating conversation about Torah and how it can inspire us and help us live more meaningful lives’, and you have the unique privilege today to share in this knowledge and wisdom. Episode Highlights: Rabbi Scheiner’s daily practical and inspirational Torah reflections The context of today’s passage The common life themes found in this passage including personal hurts and forgiveness, family feuds, betrayal, overcoming trauma from childhood, bonds which should never be severed, living in the present rather than the past, rebukes, and beginning again Reframing or narrative therapy The impact of Joseph’s mindset upon future generations The significance of the term ‘brother’ Pope John XXlll’s deeply meaningful reference to this passage A powerful example of choosing to begin again Two lessons Rabbi Scheiner has learned about mankind Quotes: “What others do to you, that is not the reason it is really happening…God is in control...find the purpose and the meaning in every experience in life.” “Joseph, in this case…is really the first person to manifest the psychological principle we now know as ‘reframing’.” “I think Joseph’s mindset has really infected every Jewish mind, and that’s the way we survive through millenniums of antisemitism and oppression.” “By declaring himself to be their brother…in an existential sense, he is giving them the permission to change their relationship.” “It’s as close as he can come to an apology for the history of his predecessor and predecessors…that the relationship between the Catholic Church and the Jewish people could begin to change.” “Repentance or forgiveness is giving someone the space to become the type of person that would never have hurt you in the first place.” “There’s just so much pregnant in every passage in the Torah.” “You never know the depth of someone’s goodness.” Genesis 45:4 Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Come forward to me.” And when they came forward, he said, “I am your brother Joseph, he whom you sold into Egypt." https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.45.4?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark is delighted to welcome Rabbi Brandon Bernstein to the podcast today. Having grown up in Palmdale, California, Brandon received a BA in Comparative Literature from the University of California, Berkeley, and rabbinical ordination from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York. He has served as the Campus Rabbi at Northwestern Hillel, and is currently the Director of Jewish Learning at Moishe House. He has chosen Genesis 4:1-12, the story of Cain and Abel, to discuss with Mark today. 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

Tevi Troy, the best-selling presidential historian and former White House aide, joins Mark for today’s episode. As Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Tevi was the chief operating officer of the largest civilian department in the federal government, and as a Domestic Policy Advisor, his portfolio included relations with the Jewish community. He is the author of Fight House: Rivalries in the White House, from Truman to Trump, as well as What Jefferson Read, Ike Watched, and Obama Tweeted: 200 Years of Popular Culture in the White House, and Shall We Wake the President? Two Centuries of Disaster Management in the Oval Office. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Deuteronomy 4:4. 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

On today’s episode, our Rabbi’s husband is joined by his great friend, and a Cantor’s husband, Rabbi Ben Spratt. Rabbi Spratt spent his early years exploring his Jewish identity, journeying through the many worlds of Judaism before finding a home within the Reform movement, and in 2008, he was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary of America where he was the recipient of many awards and prizes. Currently, he is the beloved Senior Associate Rabbi of Congregation Rodeph Sholom and the Rabbi-in-Residence of Rodeph Sholom School. Rabbi Spratt has chosen Genesis 3:24 to discuss with Mark. He begins the discussion by sharing his Jewish journey, precisely what interests him about the Garden of Eden, and both the conventional reading of today’s passage as well as a more radical reading of it. He and Mark then explore the side of God that tests us, the significance of choosing knowledge over immortality, and Judaism’s perspective on living forever. Rabbi Spratt then describes his approach to supporting those who are dealing with death, and reveals what he feels is the path to knowledge, connection, and relationship, as well as the lessons he has learned about mankind. Today’s enlightening conversation offers you the opportunity to go beyond the conventional and expand your understanding of this magnificent text with two passionate and insightful seekers of biblical truth. Episode Highlights: Rabbi Spratt’s Jewish journey What interests Rabbi Ben about the Garden of Eden The conventional reading of this story A more radical reading of it The side of God that tests us The significance of choosing knowledge over immortality Judaism’s perspective on living forever Rabbi Spratt’s approach to supporting those dealing with death The path to knowledge, connection and relationship The lessons about mankind that Rabbi Ben has learned Quotes: “God expelling them from the Garden of Eden actually sets up the idea that the only aspect, perhaps, that distinguishes us from God is that we are mortal. And that I think is a very radical read.” “Maybe this is the very path of what Torah is all about - that part of what we’re called to do is to bring that innate curiosity, the inquisitive spirit that makes us want to plumb the depths…the divine aspect of us which is reaching for more and more knowledge.” “In the Jewish imagination…our origin story is one where we’re reaching actually for knowledge instead of immortality.” “You live forever through the deeds that you do in this chronologically finite life.” “I believe that we are all wired just to be boundary crossers…our heroes are always the boundary crossers.” “Our most fundamental need is connectedness.” Genesis 3:24 He drove the man out, and stationed east of the garden of Eden the cherubim and the fiery ever-turning sword, to guard the way to the tree of life. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.3.24?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en -

One of America’s most prominent thinkers and leaders, Abigail Pogrebin, joins Mark on the podcast today. Abigail has served as President of Central Synagogue, and her book, My Jewish Year: 18 Holidays; One Wondering Jew, was a finalist for the 2018 National Jewish Book Award. She is currently the host of the ‘Parsha in Progress’ podcast, one of Mark’s favorites, which features a regular Torah discussion between herself and Rabbi Dov Linzer , President of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah. The passage she has chosen to discuss today is Deuteronomy 15:7-10. Abigail begins the conversation with her summary of the passage and its significance for her that is rooted in its call for us to respond to those in need. She and Mark explore its relevance, particularly during the current pandemic, and review the notion of duties of the heart, as well as the necessity of doing the right thing and the benefits that will consequently arise. As is tradition, our guest concludes the episode with the lessons she has learned about humankind which also happen to reflect back upon the theme of the chosen passage. Abigail and Mark’s dynamic conversation here today unearths the highly relevant guidance of ‘Moses’ parting gift’, and demonstrates just how powerful the wisdom of the Torah can and should be in all our lives. Episode Highlights:  · Abigail’s summary of the passage and its significance for her · Responding to those in need · A call to us now · Duties of the heart · Doing the right thing and the benefits of it · The lessons about humankind that Abigail has learned Quotes: “When you see someone in trouble, you have to act.” “You have to respond.” “The Jews cry a lot.” “Compassion is not necessarily an emotion, it’s a requirement.” “Something is demanded of us.” “This is pushing us to look beyond our Jewish kinsmen or kinsfolk.” “I think right now, we underestimate the power of encouragement, we underestimate the power of comfort.” “Both the material gifts and the blessings are required…you have to do them both.” “People are so tired of thoughts and prayers.” “Don’t think that this is something beyond you that doesn’t touch you.” “You should do it because it’s the right thing to do.” “You’re going to get richer if you give to the poor.” “Pay it forward.” “Everyone disappoints you.” “Everyone gets their hurdle.”  Deuteronomy 15:7-10 If, however, there is a needy person among you, one of your kinsmen in any of your settlements in the land that the LORD your God is giving you, do not harden your heart and shut your hand against your needy kinsman. Rather, you must open your hand and lend him sufficient for whatever he needs. Beware lest you harbor the base thought, “The seventh year, the year of remission, is approaching,” so that you are mean to your needy kinsman and give him nothing. He will cry out to the LORD against you, and you will incur guilt. Give to him readily and have no regrets when you do so, for in return the LORD your God will bless you in all your efforts and in all your undertakings. https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.15.7-10?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

In today’s episode, Mark is delighted to welcome Jake Cohen, chef, food writer, and culinary influencer, who has also held the position of Food Editor of TastingTable.com as well as Food Critic for Time Out New York. Jake is currently the Editorial and Test Kitchen Director at The Feedfeed, the largest food driven social media publication, and is working on his first cookbook, JEW-ISH. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is Exodus 16:5. 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

Award-winning American presidential historian and leading Zionist activist, Gil Troy, joins Mark on the podcast today. Gil’s many books include The Zionist Ideas: Visions for the Jewish Homeland – Then, Now, Tomorrow, as well as The Age of Clinton: America in the 1990s, and Moynihan’s Moment: America’s Fight against Zionism as Racism, and he is also a Distinguished Scholar in North American History at McGill University. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark today is Genesis 12:1-3. 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

Mark is absolutely delighted to welcome his great friend, Rabbi David Wolpe, to the podcast today. Perhaps the greatest Torah commentator in the world, David is the Max Webb Senior Rabbi at Sinai Temple in Los Angeles, and he has been named the ‘Most Influential Rabbi in America’ by Newsweek, and one of the ’50 Most Influential Jews in the World’ by The Jerusalem Post. Over ten years of his sermons can be found on the Sinai Temple website, and together they form an anthology of how the deepest Torah understanding manifests in the Torah being a guidebook for living better, happier, and more meaningful lives. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is 1 Kings 19:11-13. 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

Mark’s friend, Erick Stakelbeck, Director of Christians United for Israel’s CUFI Watchman Project and host of the very popular “The Watchman” program on TBN, joins him for today’s episode. Among his many accomplishments, Erick is the author of several books on counter-terrorism, his articles have appeared in publications such as the Wall Street Journal, New York Post, and the Jerusalem Post, and he has spoken at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention (NRB), the American-Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), and the Israel Allies Foundation (IAF). His video ‘The City of David's Top 10 Finds Proving Israel's Claim to Jerusalem’ is one of Mark’s favorites and can be found on YouTube. Erick and Mark have been friends ever since they met at the opening ceremony of the US Embassy when it officially moved to Jerusalem. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Genesis 12:3. Erick begins their conversation by sharing his summary of the passage, the profound meaning it holds for himself and all Christian Zionists, and how this verse has influenced his Christianity and Zionism. He and Mark then review the clarity and practicality of the Torah, the foundational and theological lessons which are revealed in this passage, and Erick discusses the moment when he began to take his faith seriously. The two also explore precisely how the love of Israel spreads and grows, the power of the Shabbat dinner, and Erick concludes by offering the lessons he has learned about mankind. Their enthusiasm is indeed contagious as these two highly accomplished individuals analyze and bring to life this ‘foundational verse for every Christian Zionist’ in today’s inspired and inspiring episode. Episode Highlights: Erick’s summary of the passage and the meaning it holds for him How this verse has influenced Erick’s Christianity, Zionism, and his combination of the two The clarity and practicality of the Torah When Erick started taking his faith seriously The theological lessons revealed in this passage How the love of Israel spreads and grows The power of the Shabbat dinner The lessons about mankind which has learned Quotes: “This is a foundational verse for my life, Mark, and my life’s work.” “At no more time than today do we see all nations on Earth being blessed by the Jewish people.” “Call me crazy, but I want to be on the right side of God.” “God chose the Jewish people to transmit His message to the world.” “Israelis are the first to offer a helping hand – a blessing to the world.” “The more you learn about Israel, and the more you get to know the people, the more you walk the land, the more the love grows deeply in your soul, in your very being.” “Blessings beget more blessings.” “Clearly there is a love for God in the room during Shabbat.” “Children change you in the most wonderful and profound way.” Genesis 12:3 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.12.3?lang=bi&aliyot=0 Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark is delighted to welcome Pastor Will Ford to the podcast today. Currently the Director of the Marketplace Leadership Major at Christ For The Nations Institute, in Dallas, Texas, Pastor Ford is also the founder of Hilkiah Ministries. He has been interviewed by CBS, featured on The 700 Club and also in Charisma and many other media outlets, and is known internationally for his family heirloom which he brings with him to the interview today to show and discuss with Mark, pictures of which you can find by visiting The Rabbi’s Husband homepage and Twitter page. The passages Pastor Ford has chosen for today are Joshua 4:20-24 and 1 Kings 18:31-32. Pastor Ford begins by describing his very special family heirloom, the role it has played in his life and the lives of his ancestors, some examples of the cruelty suffered by slaves, and the connection between Black Christians and the Jewish people. He then shares the fascinating story of a dream he had involving Dr. King, the impact that dream has had upon his life, and how these stories relate to today’s selected passages. Pastor Ford and Mark then explore the notion of God as a collector of memories, what God is saying to America right now, the inspirational story of Robert Russa Moton, and the development of the Pastor’s love of all things Jewish. As is the tradition, our guest concludes with the lessons he has learned about humankind. A highly engaging storyteller, Pastor Will Ford brings to life his family’s history as well as his own journey in the context of the Bible, unearthing the many profound insights to be found within these powerful passages and their very real application to current times in today’s fascinating episode.  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   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 Pastor Will Ford's Story in Words and Pictures

Mark is delighted to welcome Dr. Elana Stein Hain to the podcast today. In addition to her role as the Director of Faculty at the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America, Elana also co-leads the Created Equal research team, and is a widely well-regarded teacher and scholar. She has served for eight years as a clergy member on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, at both Lincoln Square Synagogue and the Jewish Center, and has taught at the Wagner School at NYU. The passage she has chosen to discuss with Mark today is Jeremiah 28. 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 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

Bret Stephens, one of the United States’ great public intellectuals over the past two decades, joins Mark for the podcast today. Among his many achievements, Bret has been the editor in chief of The Jerusalem Post, editor at Commentary magazine, editorialist at The Wall Street Journal, and currently has a column in The New York Times. He has chosen a passage which is often overlooked in biblical commentary, Genesis 14, to discuss with Mark today. 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

Mark’s guest today is his great friend and NFL legend, TIki Barber. During his career with the New York Giants, Tiki’s many accomplishments included being a 3-time All Pro, leading the league twice in yards from scrimmage, and setting dozens of Giants franchise records. Since retiring from football, Tiki has moved into broadcasting with NBC, BBC, and now CBS, and has become a great entrepreneur with several businesses and non-profit ventures to his credit. The passage he has chosen today is Deuteronomy 10:12. Tiki begins the discussion by describing his introduction to Shimon Peres, where his love of Judaism originated, and his reasons for selecting this passage. He and Mark then embark on a thorough analysis of the passage and the significance of certain words within it, and Mark shares his advice for those who find themselves lost. Mark also explains the difference between the Torah and the Talmud and the purpose of the Torah. Tiki then shares the lessons he has learned about mankind and about success and failure during his career in football, his perspective on the psychology of a sports fan, and how he escaped fear. Today’s episode is one which demonstrates brilliantly the shared love of the Torah and Bible that these two very good friends hold, and provides yet another glowing example of just how relevant these sacred texts are to our lives today. Episode Highlights: Tiki’s introduction to Shimon Peres Where his love of Judaism originated Tiki’s reasons for selecting this passage The significance of the words ‘only’, ‘walk’, and ‘today’ in this passage Advice for those who are lost The difference between the Torah and the Talmud and the purpose of the Torah The lessons about mankind and success and failure which Tiki has learned in his NFL career The psychology of a sports fan How Tiki managed fear Quotes: “This is the greatest commandment, I think, of all in the Bible, which is honor God, and obey Him and fear Him above anyone else.” “We’re going to make mistakes, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t be whole again.” “There’s no notion, really, of ever being lost from God.” “It’s the constancy that matters.” “Whenever we open it up, it’s there to help us today for our own good.” “Would you believe that the words you spoke are being studied and lived thousands of years later?” “This may be the seminal passage of the Torah.” “Failure’s going to happen, and if you dwell on it, you’re just going to create a self-fulfilling prophecy of failure, so you have to stay confident and positive at all times.” “It’s this preparedness that allows you to trust in real time…it is earned confidence.” Deuteronomy 10:12 And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God demand of you? Only this: to revere the LORD your God, to walk only in His paths, to love Him, and to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and soul, https://www.sefaria.org/Deuteronomy.10.12?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

This week, Mark is delighted and honored to welcome his great friend, Dr. Jon Fielder, to the podcast. Having received his Doctor of Medicine from Baylor College of Medicine in 1999, and completed his training in internal medicine at Johns Hopkins Hospital, Jon soon sensed the calling of God and moved to Kenya to serve with World Medical Mission and Africa Inland Mission focusing on the care of HIV and the training of Kenyan healthcare providers. Together, he and Mark have also founded African Mission Healthcare, a non-profit organization strengthening mission hospitals to aid those in greatest need. The passage Jon has selected to discuss today is Genesis 50:20. Their discussion begins with Jon sharing his background and offering his perspective on what it means to be a missionary. He then describes his reasons for selecting today’s passage and, with Mark, explores how the themes of God’s sovereignty and paradox of faith are found not only in this passage, but throughout the world as well. He also provides stirring examples of those who have inspired him in his life and his work, and then offers some of the profound lessons which he has learned about mankind. Given Jon’s extensive knowledge of scripture, passion for his faith, and determination to put that faith into action, it is no wonder that he and Mark would end up as great friends. They are shining examples of committed leaders who bring the lessons of the Torah to life, and you will undoubtedly be moved and inspired by their conversation today. Episode Highlights: Jon’s background His perspective on what it means to be a missionary Jon’s reasons for his scripture selection Paradox of faith and God’s sovereignty in both this passage and in the world The inspirations in Jon’s life The lessons about mankind which Jon has learned Quotes: “Part of my Christian calling was to confront that suffering and to witness to God’s love the same way that I had experienced it as a Christian.” “The most frequent commandment in the Torah, way more than anything else, is ‘fear not’.” “The idea of forgiveness, which we take for granted, was invented by Joseph in the moment when he revealed himself to them.” “The Bible tells us to walk in His ways, and that’s exactly what you were doing, what you are doing.” “What appears to be meant for harm can actually be to our good.” “God holds all the power and keeps His plans hidden until events come to pass.” “The redemption may come much further down the line.” “Where does such joy come from? It comes from the village, it comes from the church, it comes from family, faith, and it gives people hope.” Genesis 50:20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.27?lang=bi&aliyot=0 Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark is delighted to be joined today by his good friend, Senator Tom Cotton, to discuss his passage of choice: Isaiah 6:8. Tom grew up on his family’s cattle farm in Arkansas, graduated from both Harvard and Harvard Law School, and eventually joined the Army where he served in Iraq and Afghanistan. His military decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, and Ranger Tab, and he has served with The Old Guard at Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to the Senatorial work he does with a number of committees, Tom is also the NY Times best selling author of Sacred Duty: A Soldier’s Tour at Arlington National Cemetery. 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

Mark’s delight is palpable as he welcomes Rabbi Rick Jacobs to the podcast today. As President of the Union for Reform Judaism, Rabbi Jacobs currently leads the largest and most diverse Jewish movement in North America. He is a longtime and devoted creative change agent who has served as Rabbi of the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue, where he created the first homeless shelter in a New York City synagogue, before spending 20 years as a visionary spiritual leader at Westchester Reform Temple in Scarsdale, New York. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Isaiah 58:1-8. Rabbi Jacobs begins the conversation by summarizing the passage and sharing its significance for him, particularly in its commentary upon moving beyond the foundation of ritual and study toward acting for social justice. He and Mark engage in an extensive exploration of other related Torah passages, the call to be righteously indignant for justice, and experiencing empathy for others. They also discuss the examples set by social justice activists throughout history, the story behind this passage’s placement within Yom Kippur, as well as the Rabbi’s perspective on important Jewish holidays and the global Jewish people. He draws the episode to a close with a particularly powerful example of one of the lessons he has learned about humankind. Rest assured, you will not only be educated by Rabbi Jacobs today, but you will be inspired and moved to action through his wisdom, his passion, and, above all, his integrity, in today’s utterly fascinating discussion. Episode Highlights: · Rabbi Jacobs’ summary of the passage and its significance for him · The powerful grounding in ritual and study · The requirement of living ethically rigorous, disciplined, impactful lives · Other passages in the Torah that echo the message of today’s passage · Being righteously indignant for the sake of justice · Experiencing empathy for others · What it means to be a person of faith · Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, Dr. Martin Luther King, and Rabbi Maurice Eisendrath · The story behind the placement of this passage as part of Yom Kippur · The Rabbi’s perspective on the two most important Jewish holidays · Rabbi David Hartman and how he inspired Rabbi Jacobs · Rabbi Jacob’s vision of a global Jewish people · The lessons that he has learned about humankind  Quotes: “The section is very agitational.” “It literally is a counterbalance to the most intense ritual moment in the Jewish calendar.” “It’s a corrective to a Judaism that would be only obsessed with ritual details.” “I’m literally in love with this passage.” “At our most intense ritual, we read a passage that challenges the conventional notion of ritual.” “Commitment to social justice, to righting the wrongs of society, are fundamental to what it means to be a person of Jewish commitment and faith.” “Religious life is built on the details.” “This is not about checking the box.” “This is a time when everybody’s stomachs are growling.” “Use the experience of this Holy Day to fuel a greater sensitivity and awareness…the experience is supposed to get inside not only our heads, but our hearts.” “It was as if my feet were praying.” “The Torah isn’t just for our sanctuary, for our ritual moment. It’s a beacon of light in the world.” “I want them to take on something and really do it.” “For the Jewish tradition, social justice isn’t ‘community service’.” “We’ve got to stretch ourselves.” “There is within each of us a common bond to the people who are the most different.” “We find a bedrock upon which we can build a world of hope and possibility.” 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

Jonathan Tobin, Editor-in-Chief of the Jewish News Syndicate (JNS), joins Mark on the podcast today. In addition to his role of leading the JNS in its syndication of Jewish articles and essays to Jewish newspapers all across the country, Jonathan also writes articles, essays, or columns, for the JNS on a daily basis, which are almost always its best content. On top of all that, he is also a contributing writer for National Review and a columnist for the New York Post, Haaretz and other publications. The passage he has chosen to discuss is 1 Samuel 8:10. 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

Today, Mark is delighted to welcome Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle, Kelvin Beachum, to the podcast. In addition to his highly successful football career, Kelvin has worked with a number of charities including Bread for the World, Feeding America, and World Vision, and has been nominated for the NFL’s Walter Payton Award as a result. Kelvin has chosen Daniel 6:5-10 to discuss with Mark. In their discussion, Kelvin talks about his annual fast and his reasons for engaging in it, and he also shares his summary of today’s passage including the meaning it holds for him. Together, he and Mark analyze the message touting the importance of conviction and commitment in both the passage and in our lives, and the power of inspiring others through our actions, thus achieving what Mark terms ‘the great Jewish mission’. Kelvin also shares the lessons he has learned about mankind throughout his career and beyond. Today’s passage is all about committing to your faith and bringing that faith to life through actions – a theme with which Mark and Kelvin have an enormous amount of experience in their own lives. Episode Highlights: Kelvin’s annual fast His summary of the passage and its meaning for him Prioritizing prayer and committing to yourself and your God regardless of circumstances The conviction and constancy of both Daniel and Joseph Inspiring others by acting out your faith Achieving the great Jewish mission The lessons about mankind which Kelvin has learned Quotes: “Listening to God, I was begging for forgiveness, I was campaigning for strength in many areas of my life, and being in close communication with our Savior. It’s a must as more has been added to my plate.” “You have to be content and okay with who you are, and you have to be committed to who you are.” “It’s not about self-edification, it’s not about promoting ourselves. It’s about allowing the one God to work through us.” “If you’re working out your faith, working out your own soul’s salvation daily, you don’t talk about it, it’s those around you that see it and they talk about it.” “God rescues and saves.” “The King is so inspired that he learns almost perfect theology just from observing Daniel’s actions.” “People respond to actions so profoundly.” “You have to love the stranger.” Daniel 6:5-10 The ministers and satraps looked for some fault in Daniel’s conduct in matters of state, but they could find neither fault nor corruption, inasmuch as he was trustworthy, and no negligence or corruption was to be found in him. https://www.sefaria.org/Daniel.6?lang=bi Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark is delighted to welcome “perhaps the youngest person to have ever earned the appellation ‘a legend’” to the podcast today. Joe Lonsdale truly is a legend in the fields of business, philanthropy, and public policy, and was the youngest member of the Forbes ‘100 Midas List’ in 2016 and 2017. As an investor in, and founder of, numerous businesses, Joe has found great success with such companies as Wish, OpenGov, 8VC, and Addepar, to name just a few. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark today is Deuteronomy 32. 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

Pastor Gerald D.A. Murphy is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. Gerald received his Master’s Degree in Christian History and Theology from Ashland Theological Seminary, and he currently serves as the Director of Community Development with Catalyst For Columbus, and is the Pastor of the Columbus Dream Center. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is Genesis 15:1. 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

Rabbi Levi Welton is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. As a modern exemplar of the ancient Rabbis who held occupations, Levi not only works as the spiritual leader of Lincoln Park Jewish Center, but also as a healer for low-income patients in NYC, and as a chaplain in the United States Air Force. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Exodus 5:22. 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

Mark’s friend, Senator Marco Rubio, joins him on the podcast today. The son of Cuban immigrants, Marco grew up in Miami and Las Vegas, entered public service as a City Commissioner, and was elected to the United States Senate in 2010. In his current role, he has become a leader on a variety of issues from United States support of Israel to immigration to Latin America, earning himself the title of a ‘virtual Secretary of State for Latin America’ from The New York Times. Having known him for ten years now, Mark considers him to be exceedingly well informed on any topic, and recommends that anyone who has anything cynical to say about politicians really should meet Marco. The passage he has chosen today is Proverbs 3:5-6. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Zachary Karabell to the podcast today. Zachary is an author, columnist, podcast host, founder of the Progress Network at New America, and president of River Twice Research and River Twice Capital. He is also the most thoughtful commentator in the United States about macroeconomics, broadly defined, and his books and columns consistently articulate his distinctive philosophy of American economic optimism. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Genesis 41:46-53. 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

Ambassador Michael Oren is Mark’s very special guest on today’s episode. In addition to serving as Israel’s Ambassador to the United States, Michael has also served as a Member of Knesset and as Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office. He is the author of several of the most important works of history and diplomacy of our generation, has taught at many major universities, and has been named one of the ‘Ten Most Influential Jews in the World’ by The Jerusalem Post. Today, Michael and Mark will be discussing Numbers 32:6, the canonical biblical story of Israel-Diaspora relations. Beginning with Michael’s analysis of the selected passage and the many layers and lessons within it, they then move on to look at the relevance this passage holds both politically and socially these days, as well as the importance of unity. Michael also shares some lessons he has learned about the Jewish people and mankind in general during his illustrious career. Clearly passionate about today’s topic, Michael and Mark bring this passage to life, explore its modern day equivalents, and demonstrate the truly timeless impact of the Torah. Episode Highlights: Michael’s analysis of the selected passage and the many lessons it offers The impact of this passage upon the political reality of the Middle East today Israeli discouragement with American Jews during The Iran Nuclear Deal The modern day equivalent of the compromise reached in Numbers 32 What Michael has learned about the Jewish people and mankind in general Quotes: “Chapter 32:6 becomes a primer on relations between Israel and the Diaspora, on the nature of Jewish peoplehood, of the later Talmudic notion of all of Israel is responsible for one another.” “It’s also one of the first, I’d say, poignant examples of Jewish guilt.” “Without Jewish unity, there’s a price to be paid.” “There is an expectation…that the Diaspora will stand by us.” “Moses wanted a strategic…depth to what would become the Jewish State.” “We are this immeasurably creative, strong, unified people.” Numbers 32:6 Moses replied to the Gadites and the Reubenites, “Are your brothers to go to war while you stay here? https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.32.6?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en The Night Archer: https://www.simonandschuster.ca/books/The-Night-Archer/Michael-Oren/9781642935783

In today’s episode, Mark welcomes Rabbi Mark Wildes, author of ‘Beyond the Instant: Jewish Wisdom for Lasting Happiness in a Fast-Paced, Social Media World’. Rabbi Wildes is also the founder of Manhattan Jewish Experience (MJE), an organization which brings Jews, primarily in their 20s and 30s, closer to the values, practices, texts and teachings of the Jewish faith, and for today’s show, he has chosen Exodus 2:12 to discuss with Mark. During their discussion, they explore the work of MJE, provide an analysis of today’s selected passage, and discern the lessons that can be learned from it. Rabbi Wildes also shares two important lessons that he has learned through his many years with MJE, and he and Mark reflect upon the fact that faith is a difficult endeavor whose challenge is necessary and allows us to experience growth. In essence, today’s episode encourages us to learn from Moses’ example – look inside ourselves, understand who we are and what we value, and become the leader we are destined to be regardless of any challenges which may come our way. Episode Highlights: The work of MJE and the many marriages that have resulted from it Rabbi Wildes’ analysis of today’s passage and the lessons it offers Some lessons that he has learned over his 20+ years with MJE Faith as a difficult endeavor Quotes: “Serious relationships derive from serious Jewish engagement.” “There’s always that moment where we’re forced to choose.” “Once he actually kills, if you will, the Egyptian within him, he then goes on to do great things for the people of Israel.” “If you really want to be a leader, you need to have a vision, you need to have a focus goal, and you need to know who you are.” “You become a man when you decide what you want to fight for.” “We need to be challenged intellectually, morally, and spiritually.” “If you’re not extending yourself, you’re not growing.” Exodus 2:12 He turned this way and that and, seeing no one about, he struck down the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. https://www.sefaria.org/Exodus.2.12?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 Wildes’ Podcast The Wildescast: https://the-wildescast.simplecast.com/ Manhattan Jewish Experience homepage: https://www.jewishexperience.org/

Mark’s good friend, Logan Beirne, joins him for today’s episode. In addition to being Mark’s partner in, and CEO of, Matterhorn Transactions, a company that provides data analytics to law firms across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, Logan is also a professor at Yale Law School and the author the critically acclaimed book, Blood of Tyrants: George Washington and the Forging of the Presidency. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Micah 4:4. 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

Rabbi Dovid M. Cohen is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. Currently the Rabbi of Congregation Ohr Torah in North Woodmere, NY, Rabbi Cohen is also an attorney and a Senior Relationship Officer at YACHAD, a thriving global organization dedicated to addressing the needs of all Jewish individuals with disabilities and ensuring their inclusion in every aspect of Jewish life. He has a law degree from Columbia Law School, a Masters degree in Family Therapy from the University of North Texas, and he maintains a small therapy practice in the 5 Towns area. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark today is Genesis 2:24. 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

Mark is absolutely delighted to welcome Super Bowl-winning tight end, Benjamin Watson, to the podcast today. In addition to his great success with four different NFL teams, Benjamin is the proud father of seven whose family is deeply devoted to their Christian faith. He has been a finalist for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award on multiple occasions, is an author of two books, and leads a charitable initiative entitled Freedom Friday. The passage he has chosen to discuss is Jeremiah 9:22-23. 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/

Mark is both delighted and highly honored to welcome Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Steven A. Schaick, the US Air Force Chief of Chaplains, to the podcast this week. In his role, Chaplain Schaick is the senior pastor for more than 685,000 active duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces serving in the U.S. and overseas. He leads a Department of the Air Force Chaplain Corps of approximately 2,000 chaplains and religious affairs Airmen from the active duty and Air Reserve components. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is II Samuel 9-11. 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 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

Mark is delighted to welcome his great friend, Cantor Howard Stahl, to the podcast today. Howard was called to Congregation B’nai Jeshurun in Short Hills, New Jersey, in July of 1999, having previously served Temple Israel (Lawrence, New York) and Congregation Beth Emeth (Albany). In addition to being hailed as one of America’s outstanding cantors, Howard’s accomplishments include having been the President of the American Conference of Cantors, having served on the Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, and currently serving on the faculty of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Leviticus 9:1 – 10:3. 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

Mark is delighted to welcome Heather Gerken, the Dean of Law at Yale Law School, to the podcast today. Hailed as an “intellectual guru” in the New York Times, Heather served as a senior advisor to the Obama campaign in 2008 and 2012, has been published extensively, has served as a commentator for a number of major media outlets, and is one of the country’s leading experts on constitutional law and election law. The passage she has chosen for today is Micah 6:8. 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

Mark’s very special guest on the podcast is none other than the distinguished Alan Dershowitz. Alan’s career is perhaps the most storied, consequential and important one in all of American legal history. He has taught at Harvard Law School for 50 years and is the celebrated author of dozens of books, including Mark’s favorite, The Genesis of Justice: Ten Stories of Biblical Injustice that Led to the Ten Commandments and Modern Law. While he has defended numerous high profile clients, he devotes half of his practice to pro bono work, particularly in the defense of women who have defended themselves against abusive husbands. He and Mark grew to know each other through their work with United Hatzalah, where Alan is a generous contributor and is always willing to do anything to help save Jewish, Christian, and Muslim lives in Israel. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is the Akeida. Alan begins the discussion by sharing his experiences with both the constructive and destructive power of words, and then he and Mark embark upon a thoroughly insightful analysis of today’s passage. They discuss Abraham’s argument with and faith in God, the paradox of defending strangers which continues to this day, and the nature of questions, balance, absolutes and law as presented in the Bible. Alan offers intriguing thoughts about the Bible verses to which he frequently returns in his legal work, reviews one of his cases in which he invoked the Akeida story, and summarizes the nature of Judaism. To cap off this fascinating conversation, Alan shares the lessons he has learned about mankind throughout his extensive career. This episode is one which exemplifies its opening premise extolling the sheer power of words as host and guest passionately examine ‘the most profound words, not only in the history of Judaism, but in the history of law’. Episode Highlights: Alan’s experiences with the power of words His analysis of the Akeida and the lessons it contains Arguing with God God’s test of Abraham The paradox of defending strangers Questions, balance, and absolutes in the Bible The concepts of law presented in the Bible The Bible verses to which Alan returns in his legal work One of Alan’s case which he one based on the Akeida story The nature of Judaism The lessons that Alan has learned about mankind Quotes: “Words can create a career, and words can try to destroy a career.” “I wish people would take ‘bearing false witness’ more seriously.” “God, you’re not above the law.” “It’s the only religion I know of in the world in where a person is praised, praised for arguing with God.” “We have to strike a balance between defending the rights of others and defending our own rights.” “The Bible is the best book of questions ever written.” “You can’t have statutory law until you’ve lived through the experiences of searching for justice and trying to define justice in the activities in imperfect human beings.” “I think Abraham did not believe in the end that God would allow him to kill his completely innocent child…it was more a test of his faith.” “We have to learn how to argue the way that God argued with Abraham and Abraham argued with God, and dialogue is so incredibly important at a divisive time such as the one that we’re now living through.” “There are no perfect answers to difficult questions.” “Let’s strive to be better.” Genesis 22:2 And He said, “Take your son, your favored one, Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the heights that I will point out to you. https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.22.2?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Celebrated author and educator, Michal Lemberger, joins Mark for today’s podcast. Michal’s debut collection, After Abel and Other Stories, has garnered numerous awards, and her nonfiction and journalism have appeared in many publications, including Real Simple, Slate, Salon, and Tablet. She has taught the Hebrew Bible as Literature at UCLA and the American Jewish University, a course that Mark would dearly love to take. The passage Michal has chosen to discuss is one that no guest has previously chosen, Genesis 19:6-9. 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 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

Mark is delighted and honored to welcome his friend, Rick Pino, to the podcast today. Rick is the founder of the Heart of David Movement, a community passionate about seeing Jesus glorified through day and night worship manifested through internships, schools, conferences and summits. He is a world famous Christian musician who performs concerts all over the world, and, in fact, he and Mark met through Eagles’ Wings in Jerusalem about a year ago when Rick performed in a concert that Mark describes as an unforgettable ‘beautiful Israel moment’. The passage Rick has chosen to discuss is 1 Samuel 16:7. 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

Solomon Choi, Founder and CEO of 16 Handles, NYC’s largest frozen dessert franchise, is Mark’s guest on the podcast today. Solomon has worked in Food and Beverage and Foodservice management for more than 15 years as an executive, advisor, and investor, and has served as an Advisory Board member for Rescuing Leftover Cuisine- a non-profit dedicated to eliminating food waste and hunger. If you are in the Tri-State area or Boca Raton, Mark highly recommends visiting your local 16 Handles - you and your kids will love it. The passage Solomon has chosen to discuss today is Leviticus 25. He starts off by sharing how he chose this passage, along with how he chose his own ‘American name’, as well as the names of his children. He and Mark continue by summarizing the passage and looking at its lessons for doing business, being a good steward, and considering 2020 as a year of Jubilee. They also bring this passage into the present day with its parallels to Solomon’s arrival in New York and the growth of his business, what God imparted to him through that process, and the economic realities and attitudes of landlords during the pandemic. Highlighted throughout is this passage’s call to treat others fairly, equitably and with dignity, especially in business, and how Solomon endeavors to bring that to life as a good steward. The episode concludes with the lessons about humankind that Solomon has learned and the importance and power of meeting people in person. Solomon’s tale of starting with very little, achieving very much, and doing so in a manner in alignment with biblical values, is one that you will not soon forget, providing yet another brilliant example of how this awesome text can ‘illuminate our lives and be our guide’.  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

Amanda Berman joins Mark today for a dynamic conversation regarding Numbers 27:1 and its profound significance throughout the centuries. Amanda is the Founder and Executive Director of the ‘Zioness Movement’, an initiative which empowers and activates Zionists on the progressive left to stand proudly in social justice spaces as Jews and Zionists. She has been a civil rights attorney fighting anti-Semitism legally, spearheading such groundbreaking initiatives as the international action against Kuwait Airways for its discrimination against Israeli nationals, and the dual cases against San Francisco State University for its constitutional and civil rights violations against Jewish and Israeli students and community members. As you will discover, Amanda is a highly intelligent, articulate, and passionate speaker whose commitment to the advancement and protection of the Jewish people and the Zionist community shines forth brilliantly during today’s discussion. Amanda begins this discussion by summarizing the story, looking at the significance of the daughters’ names within the story, and explaining the two powerful reasons why they bring their complaint to the leadership. She and Mark then analyze the daughters’ argument and discuss the logic of equality that is introduced during the story as well as the models of progressive change which are learned from it. They finish by noting the importance of significant incremental change both within this story and, indeed, throughout history, and Amanda shares the lessons about mankind which she has learned through her life and work. Today’s story is one of historic social transformation whose impact reverberates through society still today, providing yet another powerful example of the timeless value and wisdom of the Torah. Episode Highlights: Amanda’s summary of the story The significance of the daughters’ names The two powerful reasons why they bring a complaint to the leadership An analysis of their argument Establishing the logic of equality The models of progressive change learned from this story Significant incremental change The lessons about mankind that Amanda has learned Quotes: “They want to be part of the Zionist story. They’re women who believe that they should have the same rights as men as the Jews were settling in the land of Israel.” “I think they also believed that even if they lived in a patriarchal society…I think that they believed that God wouldn’t see it that way, that God would say that women are equal.” “If justice is to be served, we have to be able to inherit. We have to be able to pass on our father’s tradition.” “God…unambiguously rules in favor of the five daughters.” “This just might be the greatest single leap forward in a moment that has ever occurred in progressive thought.” “They had the courage and they were welcome litigants before the bench.” “I found myself, you know, less involved in the domestic issues that I cared about and I realized that it was because of this new manifestation of the anti-Semitism that existed there.” “Making people aware that you can be both a social justice activist…and you can be a proud Zionist…that is a groundbreaking thing for some people.” Numbers 27:1 The daughters of Zelophehad, of Manassite family—son of Hepher son of Gilead son of Machir son of Manasseh son of Joseph—came forward. The names of the daughters were Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milcah, and Tirzah. https://www.sefaria.org/Numbers.27.1?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Zioness homepage: _https://zioness.org/ The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Mark is absolutely delighted to welcome Rabbi Sergio Bergman to the podcast today. Currently the President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, Rabbi Bergman oversees 1,275 synagogues with 1.8 million members in more than 50 countries. He is an Argentinian-born pharmacist, politician, social activist, and community leader who is well known for many accomplishments, including his innovative and inspirational socio-educational and religious projects. The passage he has chosen to discuss today is Genesis 1:1-5. 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 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 Notes go here

Joining Mark on today’s episode is his very close friend of almost 20 years, Yossi Klein Halevi. Truly one of the most thoughtful men in Israel, Yossi epitomizes what it means to live and chronicle the examined Jewish and Zionist life. He is the author of countless articles and 4 books focusing on growing up as a Jewish extremist, his spiritual quest to achieve peace with Muslim and Christians in Jerusalem, a history of the political journey of the paratroopers who liberated Jerusalem in 1967, and a collection of letters to his Palestinian neighbors. Yossi has chosen Genesis 37:18-36 to discuss with Mark today. Their conversation begins with a look at Yossi’s years as a militant young Jew, and the factors that ultimately led to his break from right wing politics. He also shares his reasons for selecting today’s passage, the relevance he finds in the story, and his joint analysis of it with Mark. Yossi concludes by offering examples of faith which he witnesses today, and the lessons he has learned regarding humanity. Prepare yourself for a conversation which clearly demonstrates the warm friendship these two remarkable individuals share, and which offers a level of insight which only two great students of the Torah, humanity, and life in general can offer. Episode Highlights: Yossi’s years as a militant young Jew His break from right wing politics Yossi’s reasons for selecting today’s passage The relevance he finds in this story Yossi and Mark’s analysis of the passage The examples of faith which Yossi witnesses today Yossi’s two lessons he has about mankind Quotes: “It took me a very long time to understand that what I once thought of as my best qualities were actually the qualities that were my biggest impediments to spiritual growth.” “I came to appreciate, as an outsider joining Israeli society, that left and right were each partially right, but also deeply wrong in assuming that all truth was on their side.” “I don’t know of another figure, certainly in biblical literature, and maybe in all literature, that makes such a long and complicated and painful and, ultimately, triumphant spiritual journey.” “I am seeking my brothers.” “I carried the name of a Jew who was murdered in an act of betrayal by humanity with a father who had lived in the pit, and so this really became in some way my lens through which I experienced the continuity of 4000 years of Jewish history.” “What a great blessing that is, to be able to look at the seemingly chaotic details of one’s life and see a pattern.” “I know how much I love my children, can you imagine how much God loves me?” Genesis 37:18-36 They saw him from afar, and before he came close to them they conspired to kill him. They said to one another, “Here comes that dreamer! Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits; and we can say, ‘A savage beast devoured him.’ We shall see what comes of his dreams!" https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.37.18-20?lang=bi&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en Yossi's Amazon Book Page: https://www.amazon.com/Yossi-Klein-Halevi/e/B001IXOA04