Morning Drive Bible: Recent Episodes
David Nekrutman and Scott Kahn
Do you want an entertaining daily dose of Biblical inspiration, taught with depth and erudition? Start your weekday with David Nekrutman and Scott Kahn on MORNING DRIVE BIBLE for a look at the Hebrew Scriptures that combines serious scholarship with comedy and a good cup of coffee. Download it every Monday-Thursday morning!
Do Christians believe that Jesus was a Jew, or that Jesus is a Jew? The difference is more than semantics, and might provide an opening to help people of good will combat antisemitism. Join David and Scott for a crucial discussion about what you can do to help the Jewish people. ...
The post (128) Jesus IS a Jew or Jesus WAS a Jew: An Approach to Fighting Antisemitism first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Antisemitism isn’t a disease of either side of the aisle; no matter your political persuasion, you can find it on your side. Join David and Scott for a disturbing yet important discussion about the latest antisemitic attacks in New York.
The post (127) Antisemitism in America – Left and Right first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Progressive values can be beautiful and moral; however, there are some people who, in their zeal for progressivism, create moral equivalencies which are outrageous. Join David and Scott in a further discussion about antisemitism and the reactions to Trump’s strike against Qassam Soleimani.
The post (126) Progressive Values Gone Crazy first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The American strike against Qassam Soleimani was a strike against a terrorist mastermind with the blood of thousands on his hands. But what does the world’s reaction to it tell us about antisemitism?And is Israel in danger? Join David and Scott for an important discussion.
The post (125) Qassam Soleimani, Antisemitism, and the Threat to Israel first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
“In the Beginning G-d created the heavens and the earth.” It’s perhaps the simplest verse in the Bible – and David and Scott are already arguing over the correct translation. Join them for an eye-opening episode!
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: In the Beginning… or Not? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott begin an investigation of the Spirit of G-d mentioned in the second verse of the Bible… after first discussing another modern miracle taking place in the State of Israel.
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: Water from the Air first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As we conclude our journey through the five verses of repentance, David explains why “walking humbly with G-d” is a key component of return.
The post (124) The Importance of Humility first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The verse in Proverbs 3:6 states, “Know Him in all your ways.” David and Scott explain how this is an important ingredient in the fight against moral relativism.
The post (123) Combatting Moral Relativism first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David continues his explication of the five verses that present the keys to repentance with “Love your neighbor as yourself.” It’s a very important idea, but how is it related to our return to G-d?
The post (122) Loving Your Neighbor as a Key to Repentance first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
“I place the Lord before me always” – a beautiful sentiment. But why is it a key idea in repentance? And what does it teach me about the possibility of gaining confidence in myself?
The post (121) The New Creation of Me first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Who would ever use Mapquest instead of Waze?! Why, Waze helps you avoid problems that you didn’t even anticipate, whereas Mapquest doesn’t let you avoid anything! But David argues that in our journey to G-d, Mapquest is the way to go – and is the means to achieve authentic spiritual growth.
The post (120) Choose Mapquest, Not Waze first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The Bible offers two lists of G-d’s thirteen attributes of mercy: one in Exodus, and one in the Book of Micah. How do they correspond to each other? Join David and Scott to find out.
The post (119) The Bible’s Two Lists of the Thirteen Attributes first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The thirteen attributes of divine mercy that appear in Exodus 34 begin with the name of G-d mentioned three times – the Tetragrammaton twice, and then the Hebrew word for “G-d.” Are these all counted among the thirteen, and if so, what do they mean? Listen to David and Scott duke it out in today’s...
The post (118) Is the Name of G-d an Attribute of Mercy? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
G-d informs Moses that whenever Israel recites the thirteen attributes of mercy, He will forgive them. Doesn’t this sound like a type of magic trick? Isn’t prayer supposed to be about building a relationship with G-d, rather than the mindless recitation of a formula? Join David and Scott as they tackle this difficult question and,...
The post (117) Formulaic Prayer: Magic Words or Something Deeper? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
G-d recites the thirteen attributes of mercy before Moses… and Jewish tradition says that G-d metaphorically appeared as a prayer leader when He did so. What does this teach us about the reason that the Bible relates G-d’s praises?
The post (116) The Time G-d Taught Moses How to Pray first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Book learning is wonderful, but nothing compares to actually witnessing the actions of our great teachers. Join David and Scott as they discuss this idea, and how it relates to Moses’ breaking of the Tablets of the Law.
The post (115) Interacting with our Teachers: The Greatest Education first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott offer a history lesson about Thanksgiving, and explain why all people of faith should be grateful to G-d for the gift of America. HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
The post (114) Thanksgiving: Thanking G-d for America first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
New elections – again – in Israel, and a prime minister under threat of indictment. Impeachment hearings in the United States. Brexit throwing the United Kingdom into turmoil. The whole world feels enveloped in chaos. While every country is involved in its own problems, what is G-d’s plan?
The post (113) Chaos in Israel and the World… Leading to the Final Redemption? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
On the one hand, Jewish tradition says that the merit of the forefathers was used up during the First Temple period; on the other hand, our ancestors are mentioned to this day in Jewish liturgy, and we see their merit hinted at in the Bible even after the First Temple’s destruction. Join David and Scott...
The post (112) The Covenant Versus the Bank Account first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
There is an ancient Jewish tradition that claims that the merit of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob can be used up – and, in fact, was used up many years ago. Yet Jewish liturgy constantly invokes the merit of the fathers, as well. What’s going on?
The post (111) Can the Merit of the Forefathers Run Out? It’s a Complicated Question first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
How exactly does the merit of the forefathers mitigate the divine punishments of fire, sword, and exile? Join David and Scott to learn about “zechut avot” – the merit of the fathers.
The post (110) Fire, Sword and Exile – and the Antidote first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Each of the ancestors of the Jewish People contributed something unique to the Jewish story and the Israelite DNA. What was the specific merit that came from Isaac?
The post (109) The Spiritual Merit of Isaac first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
According to an ancient tradition, Abraham was thrown into a fiery furnace because of his faith – yet he survived. How did this moment forever affect the future of the People of Israel?
The post (108) The Spiritual DNA of the Jewish People first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Moses’ fourth argument after the sin of the golden calf is that G-d should remember the merit of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. What, exactly, is this merit, and whom does it affect? Plus: the importance of wearing seat belts, and the real-life reality of the rewind button.
The post (107) The Merit of the Fathers Affects the World first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David – with great humility – agrees with Scott’s point that Moses’ third argument was actually a prayer after all; meanwhile, Scott backtracks and claims that there’s no difference between an argument and a prayer, anyway. Join the discussion and let us know what you think!
The post (106) Prayer Versus Argument: A Meaningful Distinction or Just Semantics? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
When Moses asks G-d to “Turn Away from Your Anger, and Repent of the Evil Plan Against Your People,” is this an argument or a prayer? Join David and Scott as they hash out this Scriptural question.
The post (105) “Turn Away From Your Anger”: An Argument or a Prayer? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As missles fall over southern and central Israel, David and Scott offer their reactions to the situation on this special bonus episode of Morning Drive Bible. Please share so that people know the truth of what’s happening in Israel.
The post BONUS EPISODE: The Bombs Launched from Gaza on November 12, 2019 first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
What is the concept of “Sanctification of the Divine Name,” what does it have to do with Israel’s mission, and how is it related to Moses’ argument to G-d not to destroy the Children of Israel after the sin of the golden calf?
The post (104) Israel’s Merits and G-d’s Needs first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Are the Jewish People responsible only for each other… or also for the moral wellbeing of all humanity? Listen in to find out! (Plus: a discussion about the Jewish attitude towards the United States of America.)
The post (103) The Jewish Mission to the World first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
When the people saw the golden calf, the Bible reports that, “They said, ‘This is your god, O Israel, who took you up from the land of Egypt.'” (Exodus 32:4) Who is speaking? If it’s Israel, why are they seemingly speaking to themselves? If it’s not Israel, who else could it be? Tune in for...
The post (102) Who, Exactly, Worshiped the Golden Calf? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As the people are clamoring to celebrate this new golden calf, Aaron tries to delay the festivities to the next day, and to shift them into a holiday for the Lord. But early the next morning, the people “make merry.” Is that really such a bad thing?
The post (101) What’s Wrong with Making Merry? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
G-d is the G-d of truth, and His word stands forever. So how can Moses presume to actually change His mind?
The post (100) Can You Change G-d’s Mind? A Lesson in Divine Mercy first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
After ths sin of the golden calf, Moses asks G-d, “Why are You angry?” Does this make any sense? OF COURSE G-d is angry! Join David and Scott as they investigate the logic of Moses’ question.
The post (99) Old Habits Die Hard first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The people want a new leader. Aaron wants to delay until Moses returns. What was his plan – and how did it backfire?
The post (98) The Double Delaying Mechanism first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David asks Scott for his Mickey Mouse watch… and Scott needs a good reason to actually give it to him. Believe it or not, this relates directly to Aaron’s plan when he was faced with the golden calf.
The post (97) Would You Give Away Your Watch for Nothing? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Israel bowed down to the golden calf, and Moses said to G-d, “Why are You angry?” What kind of question is that? What is Moses arguing? And that leads to a different question: what was the nature of the sin itself?
The post (96) Was the Golden Calf a Rejection of G-d or of Moses? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
When the Bible describes G-d as being angry, does that mean that He literally is angry, or is it purely a metaphor? David and Scott reflect two traditions as they debate this important point on this episode of Morning Drive Bible.
The post (95) Does G-d Actually Have Emotions? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Moses asks G-d why He is angry with Israel… who just bowed down to a golden calf a mere forty days after receiving the Torah. What kind of question is that?!
The post (94) Why is G-d Angry at Israel? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
How could the Israelites bow down to the golden calf in the desert, a mere forty days after receiving the Torah? Join David and Scott for the first of a series where they examine this difficult event.
The post (93) The Golden Calf: A Stain on the Jewish People? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott will be off during the holiday of Sukkot (Tabernacles). They’ll be back on Wednesday, October 23 with brand new episodes of Morning Drive Bible. In the meantime, enjoy these classic episodes. Our last episode discussed the four types of generosity. In today’s Morning Drive Bible, David and Scott talk about the need...
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: Generosity, Dignity, and Sanctity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott will be off during the holiday of Sukkot (Tabernacles). They’ll be back on Wednesday, October 23 with brand new episodes of Morning Drive Bible. In the meantime, enjoy these classic episodes. After learning that You I Love – not I Love You – helps the me become a we, David and Scott...
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: The Four Types of Generosity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott will be off during the holiday of Sukkot (Tabernacles). They’ll be back on Wednesday, October 23 with brand new episodes of Morning Drive Bible. In the meantime, enjoy these classic episodes. The best marriages are based on Nothing rather than on Something – and note the capital letter N. See how Nothing...
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: A Marriage Should be Based on… Nothing? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott will be off during the holiday of Sukkot (Tabernacles). They’ll be back on Wednesday, October 23 with brand new episodes of Morning Drive Bible. In the meantime, enjoy these classic episodes. The first model of marriage in the Bible is NOT Adam and Eve; it’s God and the World. What can we...
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: Withdrawing the Me to Create a We first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott will be off during the holiday of Sukkot (Tabernacles). They’ll be back on Wednesday, October 23 with brand new episodes of Morning Drive Bible. In the meantime, enjoy these classic episodes. People are different; joining together in marriage seems to be illogical. Is a good marriage even possible? Can two people actually...
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: Is a Good Marriage Even Possible? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott will be off during the holiday of Sukkot (Tabernacles). They’ll be back on Wednesday, October 23 with brand new episodes of Morning Drive Bible. In the meantime, enjoy these classic episodes. What’s the secret to having a good marriage? Join David and Scott for an investigation into how Scripture sees the joining...
The post MORNING DRIVE BIBLE CLASSIC: The Secret of a Good Marriage first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As David and Scott prepare for the upcoming Feast of Tabernacles – Sukkot – they discuss the apparent paradox that the holiday is called “The Season of Our Gladness,” while it simultaneously conveys the message that nothing is permanent. Can those two thoughts work together? You better believe it – and you will, after listening...
The post (92) Nothing is Permanent… And THAT’S a Reason to Celebrate first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As we prepare to experience the sacred day of Yom Kippur, David and Scott discuss the definition of repentance, the liturgy of the Day of Atonement, and the deeper meaning behind the shofar blasts that are blown at Yom Kippur’s conclusion. May we all be inscribed in the Book of Life!
The post (91) Thoughts in Preparation for Yom Kippur first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
On Wednesday, Jews around the world will celebrate the Day of Atonement. But Jewish tradition states that G-d forgives us whenever we turn to Him in heartfelt repentance. Why, then, is there a Day of Atonement at all? Join David and Scott to learn one of the secrets of Yom Kippur.
The post (90) THE DEADLINE first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The Bible states that the four fasts that commemorate tragic events in Jewish history will one day be days of feasting. It’s one thing to say that we won’t dwell on the bad stuff; but why celebrate on those days? Join David and Scott to find out.
The post (89) Days of Mourning Become Days of Feasting. Why? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Today is the Fast of Gedaliah – a Biblical fast not mandated by the Torah. What is it, why do Jews fast on this date, and what does it teach us about how we should behave?
The post (88) The Fast of Gedaliah – What Is It? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
When David and Scott wish our listeners a shana tova – a good (not only happy) new year – are they talking only to Jews or to all of mankind? Is Rosh Hashanah a holiday for Jews or for the entire world? Join Morning Drive Bible to find out! (Please note that Morning Drive...
The post (87) Rosh Hashanah: The Jewish New Year or the World’s New Year? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The Torah mandates that we blow the shofar only nine times – that is, nine shofar blasts – on Rosh Hashanah; but the Jewish people universally blow at least thirty, and usually many more. Where does this tradition come from, and what does it reveal about the unity of Israel?
The post (86) The Shofar and the Unity of the Jewish People first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The ram’s horn – shofar – that Jews blow on Rosh Hashanah evokes a sense of weeping or sighing. But it also reminds us of the Abraham’s almost-sacrifice of Isaac. Join David and Scott to find out more.
The post (85) The Shofar and the Binding of Isaac first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Many Jewish families have a custom to eat symbolic foods at night on Rosh Hashanah, but Scott and his family have their own tradition that mystifies New Yorker David. Does Bob Kraft owe the Patriots’ success to a Jewish family in Beit Shemesh, Israel? Listen in to find out.
The post (84) Symbolic Foods on Rosh Hashanah – and the New England Patriots first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In the Jewish tradition, it’s not enough to ask G-d to forgive us; we also must ask our friends whom we’ve wronged to forgive us, as well. Where do we see this idea in the Bible – and how does it relate to The West Wing? Join David and Scott to find out.
The post (83) Asking Forgiveness From Our Friends first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
According to classic Jewish thought, repentance requires three specific ingredients in order to fully restore our relationship with G-d – one of which is confession. Join David and Scott as they investigate the importance of verbal confession, and discuss what it is and what it is not.
The post (82) The Three Aspects of Repentance first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Although G-d promises to forgive a person who sincerely repents, does that mean that the consequences of sin are erased, as well? Join David and Scott for a discussion about repentance, and the Jewish concept of “Original Consequences.”
The post (81) Does G-d Erase the Consequences of Sin? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Is repentance automatic, or can G-d choose to reject repentance? By investigating the contrasting stories of King David and King Saul, David and Scott offer a fascinating theological insight that can help us all build a more meaningful relationship with G-d.
The post (80) A Father in Heaven or a Grandfather in the Sky? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David admitted his sin to Nathan the prophet, and was forgiven; Saul admitted his sin to Samuel the prophet, but still suffered dire consequences. David and Scott discuss the differences between the two situations, and what it can teach us about our own repentance.
The post (79) “No Excuses”: The Difference Between the Repentance of David and Saul first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Psalm 51 – paraphrased in a key line of the Selichot liturgy – is David’s prayer after Nathan the prophet confronted him with the reality of David’s sinful behavior. What is the background to this Psalm, and what can it teach us about the true nature of repentance?
The post (78) The Sin of David and Bathsheva… and David’s Prayerful Response first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As Jews prepare to celebrate the High Holidays, culminating in the Feast of Tabernacles, David and Scott discuss why celebrating in Israel is a unique experience – regardless of whether someone is Jewish or not. Can you visit Israel this year? If you can, consider this an invitation to the spiritual experience of a lifetime!
The post (77) The Land of Israel: Where You Experience G-d in HD first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott investigate a liturgical verse, paraphrased from Psalm 51, which implies that the holy spirit is inherent in the People of Israel… but that its purpose is not for them, but for all the nations of the world.
The post (76) A House of Prayer for All Nations first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In Selichot – the penitential prayers said by Jews to prepare for the new year – we ask G-d not to remove His holy spirit from “us.” What does that teach us about the reality of the holy spirit, and its manifestation in the community?
The post (75) The Holy Spirit as a Communal Reality first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott give a quick tour through the daily prayers to demonstrate that the liturgy of the Jewish people is also a primary guide to Jewish theology and belief.
The post (74) A Guide to Jewish Prayer as a Catechism first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As the Hebrew month of Elul begins, and Jews around the world begin preparations for the High Holidays, David and Scott discuss the nature of the Jewish prayer book, and assert that it represents the true catechism of Judaism.
The post (73) What We Pray is What We Believe first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott have already decoded the deep symbolism of “darkness,” “water,” and “wind” in Genesis 1:2. But why was darkness – that is, G-d’s hiddenness – created before water, which symbolizes His presence? If G-d’s giving, kindness, and mercy are primary, why were they created after the darkness of apparent Divine absence?
The post (72) G-d’s Absence Comes Before His Presence first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Last time we learned that the concepts of Divine absence and Divine presence were formed at the dawn of Creation. But how can two absolute opposites coexist? Join David and Scott to discover depths in Genesis you never before imagined.
The post (71) Harmony in Creation as a Divine Activity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Darkness. Water. The Spirit of G-d. What do these enigmatic terms really mean? Join David and Scott for a deep dive into the spiritual reality that underlies the second verse of Genesis.
The post (70) The Great Contradiction in Creation first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
When G-d created the world, three “elements” appear to be present before anything else: water, darkness, and the spirit of G-d. Are these the ingredients of future creation?
The post (69) Water, Darkness, the Spirit of G-d: Three Ingredients of Creation first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott finally reach the goal of their discussion of the first verses of Genesis: namely, translating the second verse of the Bible. But David offers five different potential translations – including one that Christians find compelling, and Jews do not accept. Listen in to find out more.
The post (68) The Five Translations of Genesis 1:2 first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Genesis 1:2 tells us that before G-d created light, there was seemingly unending chaos and darkness. How can G-d be found there – and what message does this provide for us today?
The post (67) Chaos. Void. Darkness. Depths. Is G-d Present? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott disagree about what was created first: heaven and earth, or light. But they both are puzzled by the appearance of “darkness.” If it’s there, G-d must have created it; but if darkness is merely the absence of light, how can it be a created entity? Listen to this episode of Morning Drive...
The post (66) The Creation of Ideas first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The Bible uses numerous names of G-d; why is the name associated with Divine power and judgment used in the first verse of Genesis? And what does that tell us about the way we are supposed to relate to Him?
The post (65) Genesis 1:1 and the Name of G-d first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott suggested that there is a language of heaven distinct from the language of earth; but what is this language, exactly? Can we know? Shabbat might give us a clue.
The post (64) The Language of Heaven, The Language of Angels, The Language of Shabbat first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In our last episode, David and Scott offered a radical – yet traditional – understanding of the first three words of the Bible. But how does that jive with the rest of the verse? Listen in and discover the answer, along with a fascinating new way of understanding the purpose of language.
The post (63) The Creation of Language first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Is G-d “created”? The answer is obviously no… or so you would think. But on this episode of Morning Drive Bible, David and Scott offer a radical yet traditional understanding that may upend your entire idea of the divine.
The post (62) In the Beginning He Created G-d?!? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Although we can learn philosophy from the Torah, it is not a philosophical book; instead, it is a guide for living. In that case, what is the story of creation doing there in the first place?
The post (61) What’s the Point of Genesis, Anyway? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
“In the Beginning G-d created the heavens and the earth.” It’s perhaps the simplest verse in the Bible – and David and Scott are already arguing over the correct translation. Join them for an eye-opening episode!
The post (60) In the Beginning… or Not? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott begin an investigation of the Spirit of G-d mentioned in the second verse of the Bible… after first discussing another modern miracle taking place in the State of Israel.
The post (59) Water from the Air first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The Holy Spirit may be experienced without prophecy, but prophecy requires the Holy Spirit. Join David and Scott for their final look at the Eldad and Meidad narrative, and their discussion of whether the Holy Spirit still can be found today.
The post (58) The Holy Spirit on Steroids first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
When David and Scott investigate why the End of Days is hinted at in the Book of Numbers, they discover that history could have turned out very differently – and that most of the Bible might have been omitted altogether. Find out why on a fascinating episode of Morning Drive Bible.
The post (57) Was Moses Supposed to be the Messiah? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Was there once a book of the prophecies of Eldad and Medad… and might the text in Numbers 11 even hint to it? Join David and Scott to find out!
The post (56) The Mysterious and Missing Book of Eldad and Medad first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Did Eldad and Medad prophesy about the war of Gog and Magog, and the End of Days? Where is this possibility alluded to in the Bible? Join David and Scott for a fascinating “left turn” away from the previous interpretations of Numbers 11, into a discussion of eschatology and the Messianic Era.
The post (55) The End of Days Referenced in Numbers 11? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Eldad and Medad received their prophetic inspiration from Moses, and yet their prophecy apparently cast doubts upon Moses’ leadership. Join David and Scott for a discussion about the strength of the individual spirit within a standardized normative structure, and the need for prophets to get people back on the right track – even if it...
The post (54) Different Schools of Prophecy, Different Messages first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
So many ambiguities, so little time. Who is the “na’ar” – the young man or lad – referenced in Numbers 11, who reports the unknown prophecy of Eldad and Medad to Moses? Why does Joshua intervene? And what does Moses’ response teach us about his greatness, despite the people’s apparent rejection of his leadership?
The post (53) A Rejected Leader’s Lesson in Humility first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
We have seen that the prophecy of Eldad and Medad in Numbers 11 caused tremendous consternation… but we have no idea of what they actually said. David and Scott offer one possibility, based on traditional exegesis, which also helps explain the episode in the larger context of the Book of Numbers.
The post (52) The Slow Downfall of Moses’ Leadership first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Some verses are easier to understand than others, but Numbers 11:26-29 present enigma, ambiguity, and mystery. What is going on, and what does it have to do with the Holy Spirit? Join David and Scott to find out more.
The post (51) Unpacking Ambiguity After Ambiguity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Moses was overwhelmed in Exodus 18, and adopted Jethro’s solution of having subsidiary courts. Moses was overwhelmed in Numbers 11, and G-d provides him with 70 elders who will help him bear the burden of leadership. What’s the difference between the two situations and the two solutions?
The post (50) Management Versus Leadership first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In Numbers 11, the Children of Israel complain about their menu options… and in the middle of the narrative, Moses appoints 70 elders to help him lead the people… and in the middle of THAT narrative, two individuals suddenly start prophesying in some mysterious way not fully explicated in the text. What is going on???
The post (49) What’s the Manna with Eldad and Medad? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
After thirteen episodes in which they hammered out the main issues dividing the pro-life and pro-choice positions within Jewish tradition, David and Scott summarize their conclusions in this important episode of Morning Drive Bible.
The post (48) Abortion, Jewish Thought, and American Law: A Summary first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
If Jewish law prohibits “placing a stumbling block before the blind” – that is, aiding and abetting prohibited activity – does this mean that Jewish people should actively protest pro abortion laws in the United States?
The post (47) Must Jewish People Protest Abortion? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David adds a new wrinkle in the newest Morning Drive Bible discussion of abortion: apart from the legal question itself, should a Jewish person who is pro-life actively protest abortions? And would that be a Biblical mandate?
The post (46) Abortion: A Stumbling Block Before the Blind? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Should Jewish law be definitive in determining the law in Israel, particularly as it relates to abortion? Join David and Scott for a respectful dialogue (and a discussion of that very respectful dialogue) as Morning Drive Bible continues its series on the serious and polarizing topic of abortion.
The post (45) Abortion, Respectful Dialogue, and Separation of Church and State in Israel first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Unlike other headlines in 1973 in reporting the Supreme Court’s historic decision in allowing abortion during the first trimester, the L.A. Times chose the words “Mother Knows Best.” To be a mother means the fetus is a not a thing but a human being…a baby. Since then 60 million babies have been aborted. Most of...
The post (44) A Pro-Choice Argument AGAINST Roe V. Wade first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
While Jewish law certainly doesn’t give carte blanche in terms of permitting abortion, there are some authorities who define “saving the mother’s life” – which is a reason to allow abortion – in a broad manner. Listen to David and Scott continue their important discussion about abortion on today’s Morning Drive Bible.
The post (43) Defining “Life Threatening” Broadly first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Some Jewish sources seem to imply that a fetus is a life; others that it’s part of the mother’s body. Are these sources all disagreeing with each other, or do they together offer a nuanced and complex understanding of the nature of an unborn child?
The post (42) Is a Fetus a “Life”? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The laws of the Sabbath are very strict, but a classic tenet is that one can violate those laws in order to save a life. Moreover, Jewish law allows us to save a fetus on the Sabbath even if the mother’s life is not in danger. Does that mean that a fetus is a full...
The post (41) Violating the Sabbath to Save a Fetus first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As Morning Drive Bible continues its discussion about abortion, Scott offers a Talmudic source that seems to indicate that a fetus in its mother’s womb is a part of the mother’s body, not an independent person. Does this mean that Jewish law is pro-choice?
The post (40) Capital Punishment and a Lesson About Abortion first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
As they further dissect Exodus 21:22-23, David and Scott discover an important distinction between manslaughter and murder. What impact does this have upon our discussion of abortion?
The post (39) Abortion, Manslaugher, and Murder first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Exodus 21:22-23 offers a very different take from that which we saw yesterday: namely, that a fetus is treated as something far less than a full human being. Join David and Scott for our continuing discussion about abortion, Jewish law, and modern legislation.
The post (38) “Yet No Harm Follow”: The Argument that a Fetus is Less Human than its Mother first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The New York Daily News reported last month of a 20-weeks old fetus found inside a bag on a Brooklyn street. It was given a name, Monica, and a proper funeral, where 6 NYPD officers acted as pallbearers at the service. Is a fetus is part of its mother, or an independent human being? This...
The post (37) Is a Fetus a Human Being? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Does Genesis 9:6 indicate that abortion is not only murder, but a capital crime – or is it speaking about something completely different? Join David and Scott for the continuation of their timely and important examination of the Jewish view on abortion.
The post (36) A Person in a Person first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
One of the most sensitive issues on the political landscape today is the issue of abortion. But what does Jewish law have to say about the topic? It’s complicated, and David and Scott disagree about how the broad and complex Jewish approach to abortion should be manifest in U.S. and Israeli law. Listen to today’s...
The post (35) Abortion, Jewish Law, and the State of Israel first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Using the Holy Spirit in order to uncover classified information – as is done with the Urim v’Tumim – is a wonderful thing. But when that information is not forthcoming, using illigitimate means to discover it is a terrible sin… as King Saul tragically discovered for himself.
The post (34) Illigitimate Sources of Prophetic Information first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Maybe the producers of 1970s TV knew something about the Holy Spirit. What can David and Scott discover from the iconic show Wonder Woman about the nature of the High Priest’s breastplate? (Yes, we’re serious.)
The post (33) Wonder Woman, Simon Says, and the Urim V’Tumim first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
We already learned the the Urim v’Tumim and the Sotah Waters offered secret information by way of the Holy Spirit. David presents another example of the Holy Spirit providing classified information, this time regarding the scapegoat on the Day of Atonement. But this all leads to a bigger question: isn’t this a form of divination,...
The post (32) Why Isn’t This Forbidden Magic??? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Last time we learned that the Urim v’Tumim – which provides hidden and prophetic information – is the name of G-d written on parchment, and inserted into the High Priest’s breastplate. Today, David and Scott look at another Biblical instance of G-d’s name on parchment used to discover secrets. But this time, it’s secret adultery....
The post (31) Sotah-Water and Sexual Infidelity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David reveals the secret of the Urim v’Tumim’s prophetic power: the name of G-d was written on a piece of parchment, and placed inside the High Priest’s breastplate. But which name of G-d? And how does this all work? You better listen up to start getting some answers.
The post (30) The Name of G-d on a Piece of Parchment first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The book of Exodus offers elaborate descriptions of the eight garments of the High Priest in the Temple… but is shockingly ambiguous about the “Urim VTummin” that is placed inside the Breastplate. What is it? What does it do? And how is it associated with the Holy Spirit? Join David and Scott for an episode...
The post (29) Versace’s Dream first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David is wearing a shirt with the Yale University logo, and he thinks it might help him become #MisterHolySpirit. Is he off his rocker or does it actually make a little bit of sense? (Only a little bit, of course. It’s still crazy.) Join David and Scott for an opening discussion of the clothes of...
The post (28) The Holy Spirit via the High Priest’s Breastplate first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Well, it’s finally starting to make some sense. Canaanite idolatry is more than a theological error; it’s serving the divine for selfish reasons. Sexual immorality is much the same, as it inserts selfish motives into otherwise pure relationships. Join David and Scott as they determine why these are prerequisites for the laws of holiness in...
The post (27) First: Stop Being Selfish; Second: Become Holy first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
What on earth is David talking about?! The 18th chapter of Leviticus begins with the admonition to avoid the practices of the Canaanites and Egyptians, then explains that Israel must be a paragon of sexual morality. But David says that the first verses are talking about idolatry, not sexual misconduct! (Scott got so frustrated at...
The post (26) The Selfishness of Canaanite Idolatry first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The chapter in Leviticus which legislates against sexual immorality is preceded by a warning to avoid the actions of the Egyptians and Cannanites. So why is David making the audacious claim that Canaan’s misdeeds were unrelated to sexual misconduct? Weren’t they kicked out of the Land for exactly that reason? Join a puzzled Scott as...
The post (25) Why Was Canaan Expelled From the Land? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In today’s Morning Drive Bible, David and Scott analyze the curse that Noah imposed upon his grandson, Canaan… because of the sexual impropriety of his own son (and Canaan’s father), Ham. What’s up with that? Does that give us a hint as to why the sexual code in Leviticus is preceded with a warning not...
The post (24) The Curse of Canaan first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Seventeen chapters in Leviticus deal with the holiness of priests, and then a section about the holiness of all Israel… with one chapter about forbidden sexual relationships stuck in the middle. What’s it doing there? What is the connection between sexual morality and holiness?
The post (23) An Unexpected Biblical Interlude about Sexual Morality first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Last time, David established that every member of the Jewish people is commanded to be holy. But, Scott wonders, if everyone is holy, doesn’t that mean that no one is holy? So what is holiness, anyway? And does holiness mean that every Israelite should live a monk-like existence?
The post (22) Holiness Engagement first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Scott is already holy; after all, he’s a priest (kohen). But what about David: is he mandated to be holy, too? And if everyone is holy, isn’t nobody holy? Listen to Morning Drive Bible’s new series on holiness to find out!
The post (21) Holiness of a Nation… Because G-d is Holy first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The past 2000 years of Jewish history are the story of seeking and finding the Divine Presence and the Holy Spirit despite G-d’s apparent absence. David and Scott see the influence of Esther in the long march of Jewish history, culminating (so far) in the establishment of the State of Israel.
The post (20) the Double Mask and the Triumph of Esther’s Innovation first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Once David and Scott have established the principle that Biblical precedent allows the introduction of new laws, they demonstrate that the Book of Esther itself became the precedent for the holiday of Hanukkah. Along the way, they discuss the ways that Purim and Hanukkah represent two recurring motifs that appear in the many attempts to...
The post (19) Purim is to Hanukkah as Pharaoh is to… Laban? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David has successfully argued that the Book of Esther was included in the Bible, and the holiday of Purim in the sacred calendar, because of the influence of the Holy Spirit. Scott, however, pointed to Deuteronomy 4:2, which asserts that no new laws may be added to those in the Five Books of Moses. How,...
The post (18) Can The Prophetic Writings Contradict the Five Books of Moses? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In our last episode, David and Scott demonstrated that the Holy Spirit can introduce radical new ideas into the world. Today, they summarize that and the other three functions of ruach hakodesh – the Holy Spirit – as we see them in the Book of Esther. Listen as David hits it out of the park...
The post (17) The Four Roles of the Holy Spirit first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
If Esther was the Steve Jobs of Ancient Persia, what was the iPhone idea that she brought into the universe that changed literally everything? Join David and Scott as they analyze how Esther, motivated by the Holy Spirit, introduced a brand new idea that has affected the way we understand G-d to this day.
The post (16) The Revolutionary Idea that Changed Everything first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Was Esther the Steve Jobs of ancient Persia? She never invented the iPhone, but her innovation might be even more impressive. Join David and Scott to discover a third function of the Holy Spirit, and how this function changed sacred history for all time.
The post (15) Ancient Persia’s iPhone Innovation first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
In our last episode, David explained that the Holy Spirit – Ruach HaKodesh – can mean “access to classified information.” Today he expands that definition, and in so doing finally- finally! – finds a strong proof that the Book of Esther was written with the Holy Spirit. (Even Scott has to agree.)
The post (14) Expanding the Definition of the Holy Spirit first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
David and Scott have been looking for proof that the Book of Esther was written with the Holy Spirit – but what would that even mean? Is access to the Holy Spirit equivalent to knowing the future, or is there an additional definition?
The post (13) Declassifying the Divine FBI File first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Will David hit a home run with two outs in the ninth, proving that the Book of Esther was written with the Holy Spirit… or will he strike out? So far, Scott rejected both of his previous proofs; will this one be the winner?
The post (12) Three Strikes and You’re OUT first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Yesterday, Scott rejected David’s attempted proof that Esther was written with the Holy Spirit. Today, David gives it another shot – and Scott “Columbo” Kahn rejects it once again. Two strikes and you’re out? Listen up and find out.
The post (11) Another (Disappointing) Proof first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Finally – finally! – David gets around to proving that the Book of Esther was written with the Holy Spirit. The only problem is that Scott says that his proof leaves a lot to be desired. Who’s right – and will Matt Damon appear on Jimmy Kimmel this time? (Don’t ask; just listen and you’ll...
The post (10) A Nice Idea with a Mediocre Proof first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Martin Luther wanted to remove the Book of Esther from the Christian Bible… but that was just the latest episode in a history of rejection of Esther. Why did so many find it so objectionable? And what does David make of the fascinating reality that Esther 4:14 has become a central verse in Christian Zionism?...
The post (9) Does Esther Belong in ANYONE’S Bible?!? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Jews believe in the Holy Spirit? Indeed, they do, and the Book of Esther exemplifies this in several ways. Listen to David and Scott begin to tease out the connection between Ruach HoKodesh (the Holy Spirit) and this enigmatic book of the Bible.
The post (8) The Holy Spirit and the Book of Esther first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Did you know that there is a Rosh Hashanah… just for trees? Join David and Scott for a discussion of the Jewish sources and mystical connotations of Tu Bishvat, and its relationship to the return of the Jewish people to the Land of Israel.
The post (7) Tu BishWHAT?! first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Our last episode discussed the four types of generosity. In today’s Morning Drive Bible, David and Scott talk about the need for a Biblical marriage to have both dignity and sanctity, so that G-d Himself becomes the third partner in the marriage.
The post (6) Generosity, Dignity, and Sanctity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
After learning that You I Love – not I Love You – helps the me become a we, David and Scott offer the first of the three essential components of a good marriage.
The post (5) The Four Types of Generosity first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The best marriages are based on Nothing rather than on Something – and note the capital letter N. See how Nothing is related to the new hashtag #YouILove (great T-shirt idea, by the way). Confused? Let David and Scott sort it out for you.
The post (4) A Marriage Should be Based on… Nothing? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
The first model of marriage in the Bible is NOT Adam and Eve; it’s God and the World. What can we learn about marriage from His relationship with us?
The post (3) Withdrawing the Me to Create a We first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
People are different; joining together in marriage seems to be illogical. Is a good marriage even possible? Can two people actually create something meaningful together?
The post (2) Is a Good Marriage Even Possible? first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
What’s the secret to having a good marriage? Join David and Scott for an investigation into how Scripture sees the joining of two souls together.
The post (1) The Secret of a Good Marriage first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.
Join David Nekrutman and Scott Kahn in Jerusalem for the very first episode of MORNING DRIVE BIBLE – the Monday-Thursday podcast that gives you a daily dose of Biblical wisdom that combines depth, scholarship, and entertainment. And coffee. Seriously, what could be a better way to start your day?
The post (000) Morning Drive Bible PREMIERE EPISODE first appeared on Morning Drive Bible.