So, what does Judaism say about...?: Recent Episodes
Rabbi Meir Bier | Rabbi Rick Fox
Join two rabbis at the University of Pennsylvania, one a Wharton Business School graduate, the other a yeshiva-trained master Talmudist, exploring Torah Judaism's perspective on just about everything in life.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the special obligation for Jewish people to express gratitude to the Unites States as our host country, and how Torah institutions have thrived here since the founding of the country. Happy July 4!
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the unique mitzvah of drinking to intoxication on Purim.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox unpack the introductory blessings to the Shema declaration that are recited daily in the morning prayer service. It is the longest blessing in Jewish liturgy, and includes deciphering the idea that God created good and evil, and that they in fact are both rooted and sourced from God.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the Jewish sources for the existence of demons, including in the Torah itself, as well as the approach many authoritative commentaries have taken to the literal, physical, metaphysical, or allegorical existence of demons. Enjoy!
(another shoutout to Rebecca!)
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the debate about who wrote the books of Prophets and Writings, including the works of King Solomon and King David. A fascinating discussion, as it is not as obvious as it seems, and how this has lead to an overly academic approach to these moral teachings. (Shoutout to Rebecca!)
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the age-old practice of exchanging and giving gifts at seasoned times, like Chanukah and anniversaries. Is giving and receiving gifts a Jewish value or a copy-cat keep up with the Joneses attempt to be like other cultures we see in America?
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the priests of the Jewish nation, the Kohanim, and their unique position as role models as opposed to leaders or kings of the nation. What was special about Kohanim during the times when the Temple stood and how does that carried out today in our times? Are Kohanim special today?
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the unique character traits and actions that made Abraham great in God's eyes and in the eyes of the world, and fitting to be the progenitor of the Jewish people.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss how we’re all in a position to help. Every Jew can make a substantial contribution when Israel is under attack , no matter where we are in the world, we can contribute to the war effort in Israel, not only financially, but through our individual activism, actions, and spiritual and emotional support.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the Torah and Rabbinical sources for how the Jewish people prepare for war, and the strategies and attitudes necessary to ensure the safety and security of the Jewish people and Israel, including diplomacy, force, and prayer.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss how a robust response to Antisemitism requires understanding the roots of this hate, what makes the Jewish people unique, and that it might take more effort than just changing your Instagram profile.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier delve into the complex concept of how forgiving others (and forgoing your just desserts and sweet, sweet revenge), hold the key to our own success in life and a good judgment from the Almighty on Rosh Hashana.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the lifestyle and morals of Vegetarianism from the Torah perspective, drawing on Biblical and Talmudic sources to understand sensitivities to humans and animals, their similarities, differences, and diets.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox decipher Psalm 27 crafted by King David and choses by the Jewish Sages to be recited during the month of Elul as the most effective way to prepare for Rosh Hashana 30 days later.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss this interesting dual role posed to Rabbinical authorities to be both mentors and role models to individuals as well as effective leaders making decisions that affect the entire Jewish community at large.
Recorded long ago, and once believed to be lost forever, after digging in the vaults for months, Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier are excited to present their fourth installment on prophecy, focusing on the unique and special prophecy of Moses. Enjoy!
One of the most cherished rituals in Jewish history, popularized in Jewish youth groups summer camps across all denominations, Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox delve into the meaning and significance of the Havdala ceremony that takes place after Shabbat and Holidays.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi discuss the essential topic of finding a good Rabbi or Rebbe and what a personal relationship with your Rebbe/Rabbi should be, ideally.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier discuss the concept of reincarnation in Judaism, what the word in Hebrew "Gilgul" reveals about the soul's mission, and what we can practically take away for our own lives.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier delve even deeper into the Shema liturgy, delving into the "v'haha" paragraph that follows the more famous "v'ahavta." Noting both striking similarities and subtle changes between both paragraphs of the Shema, Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox highlight the the significance of these grammatical and liturgical changes, and how they influence our daily lives.
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Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox compare the spiritual quandary and merits of praying for yourself and what you feel you need versus a more altruistic approach to prayer that prioritize others' needs first.
Internationally renowned matchmaker, Mrs. Rivkah Fox, joins Rabbi Rick Fox (they are married!) and Rabbi Meir Bier for an in depth discussion about dating in the modern Jewish world.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier discuss the root cause of the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem - (what was behind the breakdown of Jewish society, the murder, immorality, and idol worship that took place at that time) - and how we can improve on the shortcomings of the previous generations.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the vexing dialectic nature of Tisha B'av. On the one hand, Tisha B'av is the saddest, most tragic day on the Jewish calendar, and on the other hand, the Talmudic Sages refer to this day as a "holiday" using the Hebrew, "Moed" which is only found in reference to the joyous festivals throughout the year.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox continue their in-depth discussion about the words of the "v'ahavta" paragraph of the Shema, discussing the complexities of the continuity of Judaism. Not only that you must teach your children, but you should successfully model proper character and a deep passion for Judaism yourself.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier continue to explain the Shema prayer, discussing the words of the second paragraph "V'ahavta" and delving into the depth and meaning and complexity of being "commanded to love God." How can someone command or demand that you love them?
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier continue delving into the Shema, unpacking the cryptic yet highly significant 6-word phrase, "Baruch Sheim Kavod Malchuso L'Olam Vaed" said in an undertone after reciting "Shema Yisrael..."
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox delve into the meaning and importance of the Shema Yisrael prayer, why it is found on the lips of all Jews throughout history, in good times and bad. Why is Shema is the first verse we learn, and the last recited before death?
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox delve deeper into the meaning and depth of the "Shema Yisrael" prayer, focusing on the depth and meaning of the Tetragrammaton (Hashem/YHVH/Sheim Havaya), and why it is "unpronounceable."
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier set up the various axioms to continue the debate of how much is a person obligated to put effort into something, versus relying on faith/emuna for "Hashem to provide" and whatever happens, happens.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss why we need to work, the complexities of forging the right path for a longterm career, and the appropriate sacrifices and tradeoffs necessary to be successful according to Torah values and Judaism.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier discuss Jewish pride, chutzpah, and brazenness, and why it is both vital to the Jewish people's mission as well as potentially dangerous.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss dating and marriage, and how to approach each with a healthy perspective through a Jewish lens and with Torah values.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier discuss the significance of the Temple of Jerusalem, the remaining Western Wall, and the obligation from the Torah for all healthy Jewish citizens to visit 3-times a year when the Temple stood.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the holiness and significance of Jerusalem throughout Judaism, prayer, and personal development, in appreciation for the miracles of the Six Day War and Yom Yerushalayim.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the holiday of Shavuous, receiving the Torah as the Jewish nation, and the uniqueness and personal discovery that comes from individual Torah study.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss how the time between Passover and Shavuous is not only a preparation for receiving the Torah, but a recalibration to enjoying physical pleasure.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the slavery and exodus in Egypt as the map and model for building strong, Jewish faith, which does not mean "I believe in..." per se, but rather is the development of a trusting relationship with God and self that results in a more productive, happier life now.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the philosophical differences in the Hasidic vs. Non-Hasidic (Lithuanian) Jewish communities as it relates to Torah study and emphasis on the intellect vs. emotions.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the concept of "machlokes" (Rabbinic argument and dispute), how sages can come to disagree, and their historical impact on Jewish law. This talk focuses on the Mishnaic sages Hillel & Shamai and their subsequent camps and communities.
Special shoutout to Brandon Wisnicki!
Rabbi Fox interviews Rabbi Dovi Goldschmidt, the son of currently-exiled Chief Rabbi of Moscow, to discuss one year of global, political, and Jewish community impact in Russia, Ukraine, Israel, Europe, and America.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss why Purim will be the only holiday in tact during era of Messiah, and why partying reveals the deepest secrets of Purim itself.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss a cryptic Talmudic passage discussing an encounter and conversation between King Solomon and the Angel of Death.
This is part one of a mini-series explaining the Jewish tradition of receiving Torah from Mt. Sinai. In this episode, Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier discuss the paradox that Moses received the entirety of Torah at Mt. Sinai, including all of the Oral Law throughout history. Does that mean everything novel we create was really already known and created by Moses?
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier open up the Pandora's box of astrological signs, the true meaning of "mazel tov," and the Jewish perspective on soothsayers and star-gazers.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier unpack one of King Solomon's proverb's to reveal the secret "trick" to becoming happy all the time... that's right... Party all the time! Enjoy!
That's right, dogs. This episode highlights the unexpected role in Judaism of "man's best friend" and how we can learn many important qualities of human behavior from our four-legged, furry companions.
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier discuss how Judaism approaches human emotion, and how our intellect is only one aspect of self-development. Our emotions should not be squashed or pushed away, but rather channeled properly to better ourselves and our relationships.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the Jewish perspective and merits of beauty and beautiful people.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the age-old sources and causes of Anti-Semitism, both politically and spiritually.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the emotional, spiritual, and societal benefits of being a passionate donor, and why tzedakah is one of the most Jewish of traits.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox describe the intellectual and cultural clash between the Jewish and Greek people, and how the force behind the Jewish people's victory was instigated from the uncomplicated devotion of the simpler Jews and their unwavering morality.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox explore the deeper meaning of the mitzvah of "Tzitzit," discussing the role of clothing in Judaism and how these specially made fringed garments have the ability to change a person's entire perspective.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox delve in to one of the strangest episodes in the Torah, God asking Abraham to do the unthinkable, how this plays out in the end, and affects to this very day.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the merits and advantages of Jewish Marriage and why the Torah encourages Jewish people to marry one another, both from a practical as well as philosophical perspective.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox explore the origin of bris milah, and the deeper meaning behind this quintessential and universal Jewish mitzvah.
For a continued understanding of how circumcision connects to Jewish intimacy and marriage, please check out "Why Marry Jewish" in the So, "What Does Judaism Say About ____" series.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the merits of both these great Torah personalities and the special attribute that Abraham imbued to become the father of the Jewish people and the future of global monotheism.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox delve into the spiritual struggles of Cane & Abel, and how Cane came to kill Abel.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox delve into the story of Adam & Eve in the garden of Eden, explain what the struggle was really about, and how we all relate to this struggle on a daily basis.
Rabbi Meir Bier & Rabbi Fox traverse the deeper, kabbalistic & mystical sources in search for a more profound understanding and symbolism of the Sukkah, the temporary shack that the Jewish people build and dwell in over the weeklong holiday of Sukkot.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the ancient Jewish custom of fasting on Yom Kippur, and how the effects of fasting are actually designed to propel one forward with positivity - not drag one down with anguish.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the misconceptions of "Repentance" and how the Torah's perspective of "Yeshiva" (Mistranslated as repentance) is designed to be therapeutic and only positive in its effects on personal growth and change.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the Jewish and Torah perspective on empathizing with another person's unique loss and how the Talmudic Sages would console one another during personal tragedy.
This episode is dedicated l'illui nishmas Sarah Nechama bas Michael Yitzchak haCohen, to our dear Penn student and friend, Sarah Nicole Katz, z'l, who left this world far too soon. May her memory be for a blessing.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss music, and why it is such a profoundly spiritual experience and fully of wisdom
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss what is special and unique about the Jews, and what exactly makes them "the chosen people?"
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox open a discussion about the Torah perspective of the non-Jewish world, focusing on the unique idea that Judaism is not only specifically non-proselytizing, but is spiritually accessible and accepting to the non-Jewish world entirely as it is.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the concept of "Jewish Hell" and the soul's temporary rehabilitation after death, and it is not at all like the movies, to say the least.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox attempt to explain the reward a soul earns after death, according to the Jewish Sages, as well as the esoteric and misunderstood topic of reincarnation in Judaism.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox continue their fascinating conversation about death, discussing the experience an individual goes through when he or she transitions from life as we know it to death. According to our sources, what does the human soul experience after death?
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox explore why human beings, according to Judaism are not immortal, and how death is not only necessary, but a beneficial aspect of life.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the Mitzvah of Teffilin, some deeper Kabbalistic thoughts about Teffilin, and its prominence in the Jewish tradition.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox want to know why do we sacrifice live animals in our service to God?
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox continue the deep dive into prophecy, discussing "schools of prophecy" and the tactics and techniques used to achieving prophecy in the ancient Jewish world.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox begin a discussion on Zionism, launching from the specialness of the Land of Israel and the Torah ideal of "settling the land."
Rabbi Fox and Rabbi Bier continue the discussion of Israel and Zionism, and the practical ideological debate of forming a secular state.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox continue the discussion of prophecy and Judaism, focusing on the character and personality traits necessary to be eligible to attain a prophetic state.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss prophecy and the prophetic era, shedding light on when and why prophecy existed and why this era changed to the Judaism we know today that is dominated by the intellect.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the background and sources for the prohibitions of Shabbat, and how these seemingly restrictive rules pave the way for a more enhanced and positive Shabbat experience.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the "positive" aspects of Shabbat, and the heightened spiritual reality that creates a more physically pleasurable experience.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the source of this special mitzvah, and why it is particularly associated with Jewish women.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the Kosher diet, what makes meat kosher or not, and why the Torah wants us to separate that meat from dairy products entirely.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss humility & Judaism and how healthy self-esteem plays a key role in being humble.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss if there is a political spectrum in the frame of Judaism and how terms like "the left and the right" and "liberal vs. conservative" relate to Jewish ideas.
Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier discuss grief in response to personal and communal tragedy, and how to balance both feeling the loss (not being apathetic or desensitized) and at the same time knowing when and how to move on and reengage in life.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss anxiety, how it can affect us, and how anxiety compares to the "good stress" that builds us up as people.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss indulging our sensual pleasures (food, wine, sex, art, music), and the Torah's perspective.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the history of the Jewish education system, why and how it began, and how it has adapted over time to look like what we have today.
Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier discuss the conundrum of why some people are born into underprivileged situations, or experience difficulties in life, like poverty, disease, hunger, etc.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the nuances of celebrating the destruction of our enemies, and the maturity needed to respond properly.
Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier continue the paradoxical conversation on free will, specifically focusing on if a person's personal free will decisions can affect someone else's free will.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the paradox of free will and the fact that God has absolute knowledge of all decisions we will make.
Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier discuss the what happens to the body and the soul when they are separated at death.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss a cryptic piece of Talmud about a leading sage who falls asleep for 70 years, and upon awaking, experiences tremendous disappointment in being misunderstood.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss what the Torah says about living a consciously positive and happy life, its effects on us, our success, and our surroundings.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the mystical concept of "ayin hara" - the evil eye - as well as how spiritual blessings and curses take affect in the physical world.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss how the Jewish Patriarchs were each uniquely tested by God to perfect their individual blind spots and ultimately strengthen the entire Jewish people forever.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the unique attributes of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and how their legacy and impact are not just storybook fables.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss economic policy and Judaism and the Torah's perspective on concepts like wealth redistribution, charitable programs, and the banking system.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox finish up their 3-part advanced introduction series on rabbinic authority and rabbinical law in Judaism, and how particular edicts and ideas are enacted over time.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox continue the discussion of how rabbinical authority has shaped Judaism over the last 2,000 years and why it exists in the framework of Torah.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox begin their series on rabbinical authority in Judaism, its source in the Torah, and the implications of what we call Torah-level laws versus Rabbinical-level edicts.
Rabbi Bier shares a story from the Medresh where a poverty-stricken sage and his wife encounter the leading rabbi of the generation. Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Fox then discuss the implications of our spiritual accomplishments in the "Next World."
Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier discuss the Torah perspective on different forms of governments and oversight.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the emotion of anger, how it affects us, and is there a right and wrong way to be angry according to the Torah.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the historical significance of the Matriarchs of Judaism, and how are more fundamentally important to the composition of the Jewish nation than people realize.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the particular benefits that a person can achieve through consistent Torah study, including the concept of "wisdom for wisdom's sake," and the value of learning even the less-applicable subjects of Torah.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox discuss the importance of what it means to honor one's parents, and how the Torah acknowledges the difficulties that this can incur.
Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier discuss the source and pitfalls of jealousy, and the Torah's recommended remedies to live better, more fulfilled lives free of comparing ourselves to other people.
Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox uncover the secret meaning and lessons of a bizarre encounter between a Roman dignitary and a sage from the Talmudic period while in the comforts of an ancient Roman bath house.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the significance of the oft-trivialized afternoon prayer of Mincha.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the age-old paradox...if God knows everything... including what we need and what's good for us... why ask God?
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss how a person discovers their unique expression in Judaism, and the role of spending time in Yeshiva and full-time Torah study.
Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox explain the purpose of allegory and talking in code in the Talmud, focusing on deciphering the concept of "the sword of death."
Join Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox for an interesting discussion about how Judaism would talk about Judaism in its own words.
Join Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox for another adventure in esoteric Talmudic discussion, as they decode a deep conversation about the struggles and opportunities of being human.
Join Rabbi Fox & Rabbi Bier as they decode a very cryptic passage in the Talmud about the roles of the sun and the moon in our lives.
Join Rabbi Bier & Rabbi Fox for a discussion about the spiritual and material advantages of being part of the Jewish community.
Join Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox for a discussion about the importance of the individual and individual expression in the Jewish community.
In this episode, Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the difference between romance and love, as well as the Torah's secret to healthy, successful relationships with significant others, friends, family, and yourself.
In the episode, Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the Torah perspective on the difference between pure evil and evil intentions vs. acts that are evil but are often rooted in ulterior motivations like greed.
In this episode Rabbi Bier and Rabbi Fox discuss the merits and pitfalls of external vs. internal growth from the Torah perspective, as well as "virtue signaling" and "extremism."