Real Women, Real Torah: Recent Episodes
Batsheva Learning Center
An authentic Torah learning experience, produced for women, by women. In each series, you'll listen to two incredible women bring the texts to life as they share their take on the Torah they learned.
At first glance, teshuvah seems straightforward: recognize mistakes, feel remorse, resolve to change. Yet when we examine the Rambam's Hilchos Teshuvah closely, fundamental questions emerge.
The Rambam only lists viduy as a formal obligation. What about the internal, emotional process of teshuvah? Is that a mitzvah?
Some argue that teshuvah is not a mitzvah at all, just the procedure we follow when we fail in our other obligations. On a deeper level, teshuvah cannot be a mitzvah because it expresses the essence of the soul that transcends all mitzvos.
This concept gives us profound insight into the true nature of teshuvah and explains why the Rambam chose to explore free choice specifically in the context of Hilchos Teshuvah. An authentic return to Hashem from the depths of our souls cannot be mandated, because it is intrinsic to who we are—an ultimate expression of our free choice.
Download the companion learning booklet to follow along with all sources.
https://www.batshevalearningcenter.com/product-page/can-teshuva-be-commanded
In this powerful finale to our "Finding Myself in Torah" series, we sit down with Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt — journalist, Rebbetzin, and one of the most honest voices in contemporary Jewish discourse.
Avital takes us on her journey from feeling overwhelmed by serious Torah learning to becoming a woman who uses her platform to advocate for deeper spiritual engagement for Orthodox women. As both a community leader and community critic, she offers a unique perspective on the gaps between women's intellectual capacity and the limited spiritual offerings they often receive. We explore how she evolved from someone who advocated women’s engagement and influence in the frum community, to a community leader herself who lives the model of female Torah leadership she wrote about for so long. We dive into her insights on materialism in Orthodox communities and how lifestyle influence has overshadowed women's engagement with Torah.
This candid and refreshing conversation is an invitation to reimagine our relationship with Torah and the role Rebbetzins play in shaping their communities through Torah learning.
Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt is a journalist, Rebbetzin at Altneu Synagogue, and former features editor at the Forward. Her writing on Orthodox life has appeared in the New York Times, Tablet, and other publications. She lives in New York with her husband, Rabbi Benjamin Goldschmidt, and their children.
This concludes our "Finding Myself in Torah" series. Thank you for joining us on this journey of discovery, learning, and growth.
https://traditiononline.org/materialism-and-the-rise-of-modern-orthodoxy/
https://forward.com/life/437687/haredi-women-talmud/
https://www.instagram.com/avitalrachel/?hl=en
https://x.com/avitalrachel?lang=en
What happens when personal growth tools from the world of psychology aren’t enough? And how do we hold space for all the parts of ourselves, mother, professional, learner, friend, without feeling torn apart?
In this episode, Hadassah Shemtov sits down with Eda Schottenstein, a psychotherapist, ADHD coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Multi-Role Woman, to explore the powerful intersection between Torah, psychology, and real-life growth. Together, they delve into the limitations of therapeutic tools and where Torah steps in to provide the kind of direction, clarity, and inner alignment that can’t be found elsewhere.
Eda shares how her own journey into Torah learning began with a deep dive into self-awareness through psychology, and how understanding herself became the gateway to understanding Hashem and Torah on a deeper level. She talks about connecting to Torah not just intellectually, but personally, making it a source of meaning that speaks directly to the complexities of a modern, multifaceted life. Drawing from her clinical experience and spiritual growth, she reflects on how embracing fragmentation, rather than resisting it, can be a path to strength and authenticity.
This conversation is an invitation to think deeper about what truly heals us, what grounds us, and how women today can own all their roles without compromising their spiritual center. It’s a reminder that Torah isn’t just a set of ideas—it’s a framework that can hold all the pieces of who we are.
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Eda Schottenstein is a psychotherapist, certified ADHD coach, and the founder and CEO of The Swess, a lifestyle clothing brand designed for clarity, movement, and confidence. She’s also the co-host of the top-rated podcast From the Inside Out, where deep, honest conversations drive personal transformation.
Through her platform Multi-Role Woman, Eda explores the intersection of lifestyle and mental health—bringing raw insight, intention, and empowerment to women navigating many roles. She’s also a proud wife and mother of four, living the very balance she helps others pursue.
Multirole Woman
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Resources:
soulwords.org - Rabbi Shais Taub's complete Shaar Bitachon series
What happens when our inner world matures, but our relationship with Yiddishkeit remains stuck in childhood?
In this episode, Hadassah Shemtov sits down with Raizy Fried, popular author, speaker, and founder of “Inspired Living”.
Raizy explores the gap many women feel between the lives they’re living as complex, emotionally developed adults and the simplistic version of Torah they may have learned growing up.
Raizy shares her journey of re-engaging with Torah in a deeper, more personal way and discusses the power of adult women continuing to learn, ask questions, and grow. She speaks about the importance of infusing meaning into daily mitzvos, not just for those new to observance, but for women who have been frum their whole lives and still crave connection.
From the pressure to fit into certain “types,” to the way intelligence and depth are (or aren’t) valued in frum women, to the pull of materialism and how Torah can guide us to engage with our mundane lives with intention and purpose. This conversation gets honest about the tensions many of us feel but rarely say out loud.
With humor, warmth, and candor, Raizy invites us to stop settling for superficiality, to reclaim our curiosity, and to allow Torah to speak to us as whole, thinking, growing women.
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Raizy Fried is a world-renowned author and dynamic speaker known for her heartfelt, woman-to-woman communication. With her warm and engaging style, Raizy captivates audiences. She speaks on a wide range of topics, including honoring the Shabbos, emotional health, and spiritual growth. Her wit, wisdom, and practical advice always leave her audiences and readers clamoring for more.
Raizy is dedicated to teaching, innovating, and inspiring women with ideas that make everyday life more beautiful and more meaningful.
Her platform, INSPIRED LIVING, is where you can explore a variety of topics that focus on elevating and enriching the changing lives of today's Jewish women.
https://www.raizyfried.com/
What does it take for a woman to make Torah her own?
In this insightful and inspiring conversation, Hadassah Shemtov sits down with educator and writer Stacey Goldman to explore what it means for women to develop their own voice in Torah learning. Stacey shares her personal learning journey, including the pivotal moments that drew her to Orthodox Judaism and deep Torah study, and how that journey helped her find not just knowledge, but a sense of belonging.
Together, they delve into the transformative power of high-level learning, the unique perspectives women bring to Torah, and the value of making space for women as both learners and leaders in the Torah world. This episode is a meaningful invitation to see women’s Torah study as an essential voice in its ongoing conversation.
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Mrs. Stacey Nechama Goldman teaches Tanach at Kohelet Yeshiva High School in Philadelphia. She also teaches adult education classes throughout the greater Philadelphia area including Aish Chaim, Lower Merion Synagogue, and Hillel at the University of Pennsylvania. Stacey Nechama has published reflective essays and articles on chabad.org and audio classes on YUTorah.org.
What if Torah learning isn’t just about understanding, but about creating?
In this powerful conversation, Hadassah Shemtov sits down with Tonia Chazanow to explore the creative process of learning Torah in a way that is rooted, rigorous, and deeply personal. Tonia shares how she approaches texts like Tanya with honesty and imagination, staying true to the source while allowing her own voice, metaphors, and visual language to shape how she teaches and understands Torah.
They discuss the inner work of developing your own perspective, the courage it takes to innovate in the world of Torah, and how even struggle and discomfort can be invitations to deeper connection. Tonia reflects on how she learns through questions, tension, and artistic thinking, offering a model of Torah study that is vibrant, integrated, and uniquely her own.
This episode is an inspiring exploration of what it means to trust yourself in Torah learning, to bring your whole self to the text, and to see Torah not just as a tradition to uphold, but as a creative relationship to grow in.
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Tonia Chazanow is a writer, host of the Human & Holy podcast and Torah teacher. She is passionate about Torah study, gathering Jewish women, and the power of the arts as a way of better understanding ourselves and G-d.
Website: humanandholy.com
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1mo2kXBh03DA218ZmfBqRb?si=uDmGyySHQROnVTOnwwlnCw
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/human-holy/id1543330611
Instagram: @humanandholy
Email: info@humanandholy.com
Show Notes:
The introduction of Igros Moshe:
https://www.valleybeitmidrash.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/INTRI-IGROT-MOSHE-1.pdf
Article by R. Solovetchik:
https://www.bjpa.org/content/upload/bjpa/rupt/RuptureAndReconstruction.pdf
What’s the story behind the schools that shaped generations of frum girls—and what does that story mean for us today?
In this illuminating episode, we sit down with scholar and educator Leah-Perl Shollar to explore the history and evolution of Orthodox girls’ education. Drawing from her extensive doctoral research, Leah-Perl takes us on a journey through the origins of formal Jewish schooling for girls in Eastern Europe, long before Sara Schenirer stepped onto the scene.
We discuss what led Leah-Perl to this topic, how her own educational experiences shaped her questions, and why this history matters now more than ever. Together, we unpack the unique mission and legacy of Sara Schenirer's Bais Yaakov movement, why it succeeded where earlier efforts fell short, and how differing visions of its goals have shaped the way Bais Yaakov is remembered—and lived—today.
We also dive into the lesser-known story of Achos HaTemimim in Latvia, a bold and original approach to women’s Torah learning that offers powerful insights for today’s educators and learners alike.
From questions of secular education to the development of Torah curricula, Leah-Perl shares reflections on where we’ve succeeded, where we’ve adapted, and where there’s still room to grow. Whether you’re a student, teacher, parent, or lifelong learner, this episode offers a deeper understanding of how we got here—and what kind of future we might envision for the next generation of frum women.
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Leah-Perl Shollar is a doctoral candidate at the Azrieli Graduate School of Education (Yeshiva University) and has an M.S. Education; she attended seminaries in Israel and Brooklyn. Shollar has over 30 years of experience as an educator with students from preschool to adults; currently, she teaches Chumash and Jewish history in Yeshiva Girls' High School. Prior to joining Yeshiva’s administration, Shollar worked at the Jewish Learning Institute as an instructional designer and curriculum specialist in partnership with Touro College, and published award-winning books for children, as well as works for adults. In her capacity as principal, Shollar oversees all aspects of the student learning experience, paying particular attention to the scholastic and hashkafic requirements of their curriculum, as well as the individual needs of each student.
What does it mean for a woman to truly make Torah her own—and how can that connection evolve across generations?
In this thoughtful and nuanced conversation, Alex Fleksher reflects on her journey with Torah learning: from her own education growing up, to the experiences her daughter is having today, and the shifts she’s witnessed—and hopes to see—within her community.
We discuss how women’s access to Torah learning has expanded, and how that expansion can continue in ways that honor each community’s unique hashkafa. We explore the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for women to engage deeply with Torah, even in places where the desire or demand may not yet be visible. Sometimes, change begins not by waiting for a need to be voiced, but by planting seeds that open new doors.
Alex also shares her reflections on the transition many women experience after seminary, the value of women's Torah leadership, and how subtle changes in language, visibility, and access can make a profound impact on how women see themselves within the world of Torah.
This episode is an invitation to think about what continuity and growth in Torah learning can look like—not only for ourselves, but for our daughters and the future of our communities.
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Alexandra Fleksher is an educator, speaker, op-ed columnist for Mishpacha Magazine, and co-host of the Deep Meaningful Conversations podcast. She holds a Masters degree in secondary Jewish education from Azrieli Graduate School and an undergraduate degree in English/Communications from Stern College for Women. She has 15 years experience teaching middle and high school English and Judaic Studies, in schools spanning the Orthodox spectrum. She has also spoken for shuls, schools and organizations around the country. Alexandra is an active member of her local Cleveland community and has a passion for community activism. She’s a former chair of the Shabbos Project Cleveland, a founding board member of Chaviva High School for Girls and a co-founder of The Chizuk Retreat Cleveland. She was behind the #myorthodoxlife social media movement and is currently the creative director of the Faces of Orthodoxy social media account.
Links:
Creative Director -- Faces of Orthodoxy
Podcast co-host -- Deep Meaningful Conversations
Columnist -- Mishpacha Magazine
Learning Suggestions:
https://outorah.org/series/4046/
What happens when the Torah we learn doesn’t sit well with us — when it challenges our instincts, values, or sense of self?
In this honest and moving episode, we speak with a woman whose relationship with Torah is marked by both fierce passion and radical openness. We explore how she’s cultivated the ability to engage with complex, sometimes uncomfortable Torah concepts without cynicism or fear — and how she believes that real growth happens not in avoiding those teachings, but in leaning into them with curiosity and humility.
We discuss what it means to truly own your Torah learning — not just as support for others, but as a vital part of your personal identity. We also explore the fears some people have around giving women access to halachic texts: Will it distance them from halacha? Create confusion? Or might it do the opposite — draw them closer?
This episode is a fascinating exploration of how to stay open-hearted and open-minded in your learning, and how women can claim a seat at the table not just as spectators, but as active participants in the world of Torah.
What does it look like to move from dabbling in Torah to making it your identity? What does it mean to move from an interested layperson to a ‘professional’ of Torah learning?
In this powerful episode, Rebbetzin Golshevsky shares about her journey doing just that. From her early education to the pivotal shifts that shaped her learning, we trace the journey of one frum woman who turned her deep personal connection to Torah into a lifelong mission.
She explores the challenges she faced along the way, the birth of Shiviti, and how Torah learning continues to shape her as a teacher, mother, friend, and leader. We also take a deep dive into one of Rebbetzin Golshevsky’s personal passions: pnimiyus haTorah. We explore practical suggestions for engaging with the deeper parts of Torah in a meaningful way and how we can integrate its messages into our lives.
This episode is a fascinating exploration of what it means to build a life around Torah — not just as a source of inspiration, but as a core identity.
Rebbetzin Golshevsky is the director of SHIVITI. She holds primary and secondary teaching certification from Yavne Teachers College in Cleveland, as well as a BA from SUNY Buffalo in Classics-Judaic Studies. Rebbetzin Golshevsky has been a well-known Torah educator in Jerusalem and abroad for twenty-five years, with students all over the world. She is a published author, editor, and translator… but teaching Torah is her first love.
Website: https://shiviti.org.il/about/
Book Recommendations:
https://www.sefaria.org/Bnei_Machshava_Tova?tab=contents
https://www.amazon.com/BNEI-MACHSHAVA-TOVA-Hebrew-Feldheim/dp/B001EUJTB6
https://www.sefaria.org/Likutei_Halakhot?tab=contents
https://moznaim.com/products/likutey-halachos-volume-1?variant=34693487591584&country=US¤cy=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=&utm_campaign=pm_all_products_prime&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22559123263&gbraid=0AAAAAC7EWIin-2Q4Op8QZgHhcn_gYPRJB&gclid=CjwKCAjw6NrBBhB6EiwAvnT_ruDxtLKsRVhfx035lz7CPWPa4xpeNVBBzGeU3SdCxpag4dngurPGQRoC6RcQAvD_BwE
In this episode, Dr. Chava Green explores how uncovering a genuine curiosity about our Judaism can ignite a lifelong passion for Torah study. Chava shares about her own journey of seeking out a community that would give her access directly to the texts of Torah and why that was a deal breaker for her. We dive into how firsthand engagement with Torah sources has shaped her understanding of Jewish womanhood, how she’s adapted to the changes that came with motherhood, and why direct access to learning at the various seasons of her life can take on different forms.
We talk about the research she did while writing her dissertation on Chassidic feminism, focusing specifically on the impact of the Rebbe speaking directly to women, and how a direct relationship with Torah contributes to a sense of spiritual belonging.
What does it mean to truly feel that Torah is ours? Where do gaps remain in women’s connection to Jewish learning—and how might we begin to close them? This episode is an invitation to ask: What’s your question? And what might open up if you followed it into the text?
Dr. Chava Green is an educator, writer, and public speaker. She has a PhD in Religion from Emory University where she wrote a dissertation on Hasidic Feminism. Her academic and popular work explore the role of gender in Chabad society and its mystical texts. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband and three children.
Website: https://thehasidicfeminist.wordpress.com/
Monthly newsletter: https://the-hasidic-feminist.kit.com/16d7257907
Podcasts:
18forty: https://18forty.org/podcast/what-is-chabads-feminist-vision/
The TrailBLAZER Pod: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9EH2164Bjw&t=91s
Book Recommendation:
https://korenpub.com/collections/the-noe-edition-koren-talmud-bavli-1?srsltid=AfmBOopiSHgzxAbXF5gU395ed7Lkd5nCC7udQxfZZgw8DIsBqugYYSfU
References
Study Guide
Sicha
As Shavuos approaches, we're excited to introduce a brand-new summer podcast series: Finding Myself in Torah — a journey into the hearts and minds of ten frum women from across the Jewish world, each sharing how they’ve discovered their voice and place within the world of Torah.
In this special trailer episode, host Hadassah Shemtov shares the inspiration behind the series and offers two powerful Torah insights that explore how women can fully connect to Torah and claim it as their own. Though the formal obligation of Torah study may differ for women, the depth, breadth, and spiritual richness of Torah are equally available to all.
Join us as we begin this heartfelt series — one that aims to uplift, challenge, and reimagine what it means for women to say: “Torah is mine.”
Sources Referenced in this episode:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1uH7dkHM6_voLR6_IuxAf84_ZcmYtZh5z/view
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1xpjYtRktThIoMBMr3XF0Kulxh1s-CjPT/view
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hL2XeIF6J_CRb2OQ5Xj6XWKQ9ygz4Esn/view?usp=sharing
For a full exploration of this topic, pre-order our new book on women’s Torah study: a compilation halachic, hashkafic and historical sources on the topic:
https://www.batshevalearningcenter.com/product-page/women-s-torah-learning-book
Dive into an intricate legal discussion on the laws of removing chametz before Pesach.
Both searching for chametz (and burning it) and disowning it are valid ways to fulfill this mitzvah—so why are both necessary?
As we explore this discussion in the Gemara, we’ll uncover a profound lesson on self-growth and perfectionism. How do the halachic parameters of purging our homes of physical chametz reflect the way we approach ridding ourselves of our spiritual chametz within?
Tune in to discover the deeper connection between Pesach preparation and personal transformation. Follow along in the sources here.
In this pre-Purim episode, Zisi Zirkind explores the symbolism of Esther's name and character through the lens of various midrashim and Chassidic sources.
Listen in to a fascinating discussion about the theme of concealment that characterizes Purim and the unique power of the G-d's hidden presence that exists within darkness and the hidden love of the Jewish people that emerges in when we are in exile.
Part 5 of Pru Urvu: Torah Perspectives on Women’s FertilityIn this bonus episode, Miri Birk, a student of last year’s Pru Urvu course, shares some of her reflections on the concepts explored in the course and how they can shape our approach to parenting. In this candid conversation, Hadassah and Miri talk about the real challenges of motherhood and what it looks like to adopt the Torah value of having a family while keeping in mind the realities of our human experience.
Part 4 of Pru Urvu: Torah Perspectives on Women’s Fertility
In this conversation with Aimee Baron from ‘I was supposed to have a baby’, Hadassah explores the topic of pregnancy and infant loss.
She introduces some fascinating Torah sources that discuss the identity of the soul of a miscarried fetus, its value and its purpose. She also discusses the inherent value Torah places on embarking on the journey towards motherhood, regardless of the outcome.
Join the course on Pru Ur'vu here to learn the sources.
What’s the story behind Yehudis, the fearless woman who played a key role in the Chanukah miracle? Join Hadassah Shemtov as she delves into Yehudis’s remarkable bravery, the halachic implications of her story on women’s connection to the mitzvah of Menorah, and Chanukah minhagim. Discover a mystical perspective on why women take center stage in the salvation stories of Purim and Chanukah.Follow along in the sources with our free Chanukah booklet here.
Part 3 of Pru Urvu: Torah Perspectives on Women’s Fertility
This episode explores some of the practical concerns that come up with raising a large family and how to navigate them.
We discuss questions like:
- Where do we draw the line between hishtadlus and bitachon when it comes to concerns about finances or chinuch?
- What role does mental health play in halachic decisions about preventing pregnancy?
- What are some general halachic issues that comes up with the use of contraceptives?
Sign up for the Pru U'rvu course here.
Listen to the mikvah.org series on this topic: 'Building a Family.'
Part 2 of Pru Urvu: Torah Perspectives on Women’s Fertility
In this episode, Yitty Gniwisch explores the question of why women are exempt from Pru Urvu from a mystical perspective and redefines the unique role a woman plays in influencing her family and the world.
www.batshevalearningcenter.com/courses
Part 1 of Pru Urvu: Torah Perspectives on Women’s Fertility
In this first episode of our Pru Urvu podcast series, Ita Broh lays out the foundational sources behind the mitzvah Pru Urvu and how it relates to women. She explores:
- What are the sources in the Torah for the mitzvah of having children? What are the specific guidelines for the mitzvah?
- What reasons are given for the mitzvah and why is it considered such an important value in Yiddishkeit?
- Are women obligated in this mitzvah? Why or why not?
- Is their role in the fulfillment of the mitzvah different from men and if so, how?
This episode lays the groundwork for the discussion in all future episodes in this series.
The Source for the Mitzvah
Where does the concept of Kisui Rosh come from in the Torah? Is it a d’oraisa, a d’rabanan or both? Who does it apply to? What if a woman was married and then divorced or widowed? Does she have to cover her hair too?
In this episode, we'll explore the unexpected source for the mitzvah of hair covering from stories in the Torah and the Mishna and Gemara. We'll explore the concepts of Das Moshe and Das Yehudis and give a new perspective on the minhagim of tznius that affect so many aspects of our dress. We conclude with a discussion on the original sources that address who is obligated to cover their hair.
If you liked this series and want to take your learning to the next level by diving into the original sources for yourself, register for our upcoming course starting at the end of October: batshevalearningcenter.com/courses
To purchase the course books to learn on your own or in a group, visit our online store here:
batshevalearningcenter.com/textbooks
Follow us on Instagram or join our WhatsApp group for more text-based Torah learning opportunities for women.
Welcome to our new podcast series, where we'll explore everything you ever wanted to know about hair covering. We approach the topic from a new angle, giving you the inside scoop on how the halachos of Kisui Rosh developed, following the chain from the original sources in the Torah, through the texts of the Mishna, Gemara, Rishonim and Acharonim.
In this introductory episode, we introduce Menucha Schwartz, our guest for this series and the genius behind the original Kisui Rosh course we launched three years ago. She talks about the process of researching and writing on this topic, we give an outline for the upcoming episodes and we talk about what we hope you, our audience, can gain from listening.
If you liked this series and want to take your learning to the next level by diving into the original sources for yourself, register for our upcoming course starting end of October: batshevalearningcenter.com/courses
To purchase the course books to learn on your own or in a group, visit our online store here:
batshevalearningcenter.com/textbooks
Follow us Instagram or join our WhatsApp group for more text-based Torah learning opportunities for women.
Join Mushky Kovesh and Menucha Minkowitz, students at the Brooklyn Beis Midrash, in a 'Chavrusah Shmooze'. In their lively conversation, they explore the concept of sin, redefining Hashem's intention in creating the world. They discuss how our ability to choose between right and wrong comes from our unique connection with Hashem, the piece of divinity within us.
The ideas discussed in this episode are based on the maamar באתי לגני תשל"א. This episode has been released in honor of Yud Shvat, the day of the passing of the previous Rebbe, and the day the Rebbe assumed leadership.
Torah Ohr Parshas Vayechi
Each of Leah’s first four sons are named to reflect her deep desire to connect to her husband, Yaakov. On a deeper level, each of these sons embody a pathway through which the Jewish soul connects to her ‘husband’, Hashem.
This maamar walks us through four steps in building a relationship with Hashem, each one reflected in another part of our daily prayer. The climax is shemoneh esrei, where we achieve the ultimate unity with Hashem through the quality of surrender embodied by Yehuda.
ד״ה יהודה אתה יודוך אחיך
Torah Ohr Parshas Vayigash
This foundational maamar explores the dynamic between Yosef and Yehuda as a model for two core perspectives that shape the value system of Judaism.
When Yehuda approaches Yosef to plead on Binyamin's behalf, it’s more than a face-off between two brothers; it’s a meeting of two worldviews. Yosef's is one that values spiritual self-growth as the ultimate pursuit. Yehuda sees value in submission to a purpose beyond himself. Both perspectives portray an angle of truth, but only one can hold center stage at a time. While Yehuda started as the more powerful brother, selling Yosef into slavery, Yosef, now the king of Egypt, seems to dominate Yehuda. But ultimately, in generations to come, Yehuda will triumph as the tribe from which Jewish monarchy will descend. At the end of days, it is his perspective that will come out on top.
ד״ה ויגש אליו יהודה
Torah Ohr on Chanukah
The celebration of Chanukah centers not around the military victory over the Greek army, but a spiritual victory of the soul, represented by the lights of the menorah.
This spiritual battle is one we experience every day, as we fight to ignite a fire of love inside our hearts. This maamar retells the story of Chanukah on a personal level, exploring the metaphor of a candle as a model for developing a relationship with Hashem.
ד״ה ענין חנוכה
Torah Ohr Parshas Mikeitz
Parshas Miketz begins with Pharoah’s dream of the seven healthy cows being swallowed by seven sickly ones. This dream gives a powerful imagery for the fleeting nature of inspiration. Why does our excitement for spirituality seem to slip away as quickly as it comes?
This maamar offers an answer by looking at the end of the previous parsha when ‘the butler forgot about Yosef’ as the root of the problem. We’ll explore the symbolism of each character in this story and the role they play in our personal service of Hashem.
ד״ה ויהי מקץ
Torah Ohr Parshas Vayeishev
Life in exile is a lot like a dream; an alternate reality in which contradictory experiences coexist and nothing seems to make sense. But dreaming has another side to it. It’s a time of infinite imagination that transcends the limits of reason and accesses the deepest parts of the psyche. This maamar explores the recurring theme of dreams that appears multiple times at the end of Sefer Bereishis and why Yosef is considered the ultimate dreamer.
ד"ה שיר המעלות
Torah Ohr Parshas VayishlachWhat was Yaakov trying to achieve in making peace with Eisav? How do we reconcile within our own souls the boundless, unchanneled energy of Eisav with the disciplined, focused approach of Yaakov?
This week’s maamar will retell the story of Yaakov and Eisav’s dramatic reunion on a mystical level and give us profound insight into the internal battle of every Jew.
ד״ה וישלח יעקב מלאכים לפניו
https://batshevalearningcenter.com/bereishis
Torah Ohr Parshas Vayeitzei
Some people are naturally driven to engage with the world, while others prefer to retreat into their own spiritual oasis.
Which one does Judaism prefer?
This week’s parsha is our first introduction to Rachel and Leah, the two sisters who marry Yaakov and become the last two matriarchs of the Jewish people. In this maamar, we’ll explore the message behind each of their life stories and how we can incorporate both of their roles within our own lives.
ד״ה וללבן שתי בנות
Torah Ohr Parshas Toldos
What did Yitzchak see in Eisav that motivated him to shower Eisav with blessings unconditionally? What did Rivka see that made her realize the blessings had to go to Yaakov?
This maamar explores the fascinating story of Yaakov deceptively taking the blessings from his father and what that teaches us about keeping our idealism in check. While Yitzchak believed in the power of Eisav’s potential, he failed to see the reality on the ground–that his energy was impossible to access as is without channeling it through Yaakov.
ד״ה ראה ריח בני
Follow along in the maamar here.
Torah Ohr Parshas Chayei Sara
Why are human beings dependent on an act so mundane as eating food in order to survive? What is the nature of our relationship with food and what does that tell us about how we can engage with the physical world around us in a way that lifts us up, rather than dragging us down? This maamar answers these questions by exploring the mystical symbolism of the mearas hamachpela and the meaning of a cryptic line from the Arizal’s poem sung on Shabbos day, “Asader L’seudasa”.
ד״ה יגלה לן טעמיה
Follow along in the maamar.
Visit our website for more resources.
Torah Ohr Parshas Vayeira
Why does the Torah so often describe G-d in human terms? Does G-d have a personality?
This foundational maamar gives us insight into these questions by exploring the kabbalistic concept of the sefiros. We use the human psyche as a metaphor to understand the dual nature of the sefiros and how they bridge the gap between Creator and creation.
ד״ה ״פתח אליהו״
Follow along in the maamar here.
Here is a chart of the mashalim used in the first few paragraphs of the maamar.
Visit our website for more resources.
Torah Ohr Parshas Lech Lecha
The first seventy-five years of Avraham Avinu’s life tell a remarkable tale of personal discovery and heroic sacrifice, but none of that makes it into the story told in Parshas Lech Lecha.
We begin with Hashem’s instruction to embark on a journey and with that, Avraham begins for the first time to access the limitless potential of his soul by channeling it towards his unique life’s purpose.
Visit our website for more resources on this maamar.
Torah Ohr Parshas Noach
Did we really need the drama of a massive flood to teach a few crooks a lesson? Based on a verse from Shir Hashirim, we discover that the flood waters are not a vengeful punishment but a peaceful cleansing and powerful lesson for living a focused life. Stand unprotected and you’ll get washed away by the flood of worldly distractions. Build yourself an ark and those same waters will lift you up to heights you never dreamed of.
This episode is sponsored by the Baltimore community in merit of the protection of our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisroel and the immediate arrival of Moshiach.Visit our website for more resources on this maamar.
Torah Ohr Parshas Bereishis
What was so terrible about eating from the Tree of Knowledge? And why did it result in so much shame?
In this episode, we’ll discover that ‘knowledge’ isn’t always a good thing and how that first encounter with good and evil changed the human psyche forever.
Follow along in the maamar here. ד״ה ״ויאמר ה׳ אלוקים״
Visit our website for more resources on this maamar.
Join us on a 12-week journey through Torah Ohr on Bereishis.
Explore the stories of Bereishis through a fresh lens and discover the inner strengths you never knew you had.
Find out more at batshevalearningcenter.com/bereishis
Stories of Sorrow, Lessons of Hope - Part 3
This episode explores four different angles on a story from the end of Maseches Makkos that describes four sages observing the aftermath of the destruction. Three of them cry, but the fourth, Rabbi Akiva, laughs.
As they discuss the reasons for their reaction, we learn some powerful lessons about finding hope in darkness.
Stories of Sorrow, Lessons of Hope - Part 2
In this episode, Mushhky Steinmetz explores the story of Titus as it is told in Maseches Gittin. We learn about his horrific acts of desecration in the Beis Hamikdash and about his unexpected downfall.
The Gemara describes in great detail how Titus was tortured for seven years by a mosquito that entered his head through his nose. What is the meaning of this strange punishment, and why do Chazal spend so much time telling us this tale?
We'll explore this story through the lens of multiple commentaries. Most significantly, we'll look at how the Maharal uses this story to argue against the rationalist views that were popular in his time.
In this episode, Mushky Steinmetz explores the fascinating story told in Maseches Gittin about R. Yochanan Ben Zachai's clever escape from the walls of Yerushalayim and his conversation with Vespasion, the Roman general.
The story concludes with R. Yochanan Ben Zachai making three requests of the future emperor. What is the meaning of these three requests? Why not ask for the salvation of the entire Jewish people and what is it about these three things that make them keys to the Jewish nation's survival and redemption?
In this episode, we introduce our new series, "Stories of Sorrow, Lessons of Hope" with Mushky Steinmetz.
This series will explore stories from the Gemara related to the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash and some of the messages the commentators take out of them.
In this introductory episode, Mushky defines what Aggadah is and gives a general overview of how to understand Aggadah.
This final episode in our zman grama series is short enough to fit into your pre-Pesach schedule and packed with everything you need to know about the connection women have to the mitzvos we perform at the seder.
Adi Bitter explores the source and reason behind each mitzvah and explains if and why women are obligated to perform them. She ends with a beautiful takeaway about internalizing the deeper message of the seder at all stages of our lives.
In this second episode of our series on mitzvos asei shehazman grama, Chava Goodman explores the topic from a fresh angle, based on various sources from Kabbalah and chassidus.
Rather than looking at women's exemption as driven by pragmatic concerns, this mystical perspective sees it as a product of a cosmic reality. What are the masculine and feminine energies within creation and how does that explain a woman's relationship to mitzvos?
Chava paints a beautiful picture of what a feminine mode of service is all about and demonstrates how the halachic sources on this topic allude to this deeper understanding of a woman's relationship with time.This series is published in conjunction with our recent course on the topic of mitzvos asei shehazman grama. To purchase the sourcebook & textbook, visit our website here: www.batshevalearningcenter.com/textbooks
In this candid discussion with Adi Bitter, she gives an overview of the concept of women's exemption from time-bound mitzvos that is both informative and relevant. She explains the halachic definition for mitzvos asei shehazman gerama, the reasons given in various halachic sources, and the parameters for women voluntarily fulfilling these mitzvos.
Throughout the discussion, she sprinkles in insights and examples from her personal life that address the misconceptions and frustrations some women may have around this topic and offers practical advice for how to incorporate these mitzvos in our lives in a way that is both personally meaningful and enhances our relationship with Hashem.
This series is published in conjunction with our recent course on the topic of mitzvos asei shehazman gerama. To purchase the sourcebook & textbook, visit our website here: www.batshevalearningcenter.com/textbooks
This episode is co-sponsored by Levi and Sara Liba Schrager l’ilui nishmas Yochanan ben Béla on the occasion of his yahrzeit and by Batsheva Davidson in honor of this series and all the work that Batsheva does.
In this final episode, we take a deeper look at the concept of niddah from a spiritual perspective and discover its profound symbolism in our lives. Mrs. Rivky Kaplan pulls from various Chassidic sources to give us a mystical insight into the word “niddah” and the link between the cosmic reality of niddah and the chet etz hadaas, which is where it all started.
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow-up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.
This episode is sponsored by Mrs. Vivi Deren, l'lui nishmas Bluma a"h bas HaRav Yisrael HaKohen Deren on the occasion of her 25th yahrtzeit, 28 Kislev, 4th lichtl of Chanukah
This episode discusses the conclusion of a woman's purification process and the preparations that are necessary before immersing in a mikvah. We look at which type of chatzitzos (barriers) are forbidden from the Torah, which are Rabbinic and the ramifications of that on the way we prepare for mikvah today.
Mrs. Kaplan also discusses the difference between the two stages of preparation, chafifa and iyun.
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.
This episode is sponsored anonymously in honor of a refuah sheleima for Henya bas Bracha Devorah Leah.
In this eye-opening episode, Mrs. Rivky Kaplan sheds light on the topic of kesamim (staining), an area of hilchos niddah she has found to be wrought with the most confusion. She discusses the interplay between d'oraisa and derabanan and how that forms the basis for some of the leniencies that are employed when dealing with kesamim. She explains how our implementation of these halachos aren’t "cheating the system", but are a natural part of the way the system of derabanan was set up, to begin with.
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.
This episode is sponsored by Chavi Russ in honor of a refuah shelaima for Moshe Aryeh Leib ben Bracha
This episode explores the original sources for the hefsek tahara and the bedikos that are performed during the seven clean days leading up to immersion in the mikvah. We look at the roots of these halachos in the purification processes performed by both the niddah and the zavah during the temple era and how they both impact halacha as we practice it today.
Sources quoted in this episode:
Yoreh De'ah
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow-up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.
This episode is sponsored by Leia Baitelman.
This episode discusses the requirement for a woman to wait five days from when she sees a flow until she can perform a hefsek tahara.
We’ll trace this five day wait back to the story of Matan Torah and understand how the practice evolved from waiting three days to four and eventually five.
As we explore the fascinating history behind this halacha, we'll see an example of where the divergence between Sefardi and Ashkenazi custom originates and learn a lesson about the value of having a personal relationship to Torah along the way.
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow-up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.
This episode is sponsored by Goldie Markovits in honor and appreciation of her parents, Shmuel Tzvi and Devorah Markovits.
Building off of our last episode that described how niddah is defined by Torah law, Mrs. Rivky Kaplan explores the development of these halachos and the challenges that led to the shift in how we practice them today.
This episode provides an important historical context that sheds light on the pragmatism behind the development of mitzvos derabanan and minhagim.
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow-up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.**
This episode is sponsored by Marisa Lewitan in memory of Penina Yalta bas Yosef Yitzchak. May her neshama have an aliya!
In this foundational episode, Mrs. Rivky Kaplan gives us a glimpse into an era thousands of years ago, when the laws of tumah and tahara took center stage of Jewish life.
We look at the Torah's definition for the tumah of niddah and zavah and what the purification process looked like for each. Understanding the complexities inherent in these categories of tumah and the practical implications they had on women's lives will lay the groundwork for appreciating the development of these halachos as they are practiced today.
*Please note that content discussed in this podcast series is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace speaking to a qualified rav regarding any practical halachic questions.
If you would like to contact Rivky Kaplan regarding any follow up questions, please email her at rivkaplan@gmail.com.**
Join us as we embark on a journey with Mrs. Rivky Kaplan, from Tzfat, Israel, unraveling some of the common questions and confusions women have surrounding hilchos niddah.
This series goes beyond the practical dos and don'ts you might learn at kallah classes and offers a window into the history and development of these halachos, providing important context for their day-to-day practice.
In this introductory episode, we’ll discuss the goal of this series, the significance of this area of halacha and why we feel this content is so valuable for women to hear.
This is the final episode in our 3-part Tishrei series with Chana Hirschowitz.
In this episode, Chana introduces a maamar from Likutei Torah on Shemini Atzeres. It paints the paradox of our human experience and leads us to a deeper understanding of our true nature.
We explore how what seems to be two opposing forces work together to choreograph a beautiful dance. The combination of working on ourselves with a real acceptance of who we are is what achieves a dynamic relationship with G-d.
Join Chana as she journeys to the culmination of the ideas we have been exploring throughout Tishrei to understand how the seesaw of being human is what allows us to be our best selves.
This is the second episode in our 3-part Tishrei series with Chana Hirschowitz.
In this episode, Chana introduces another maamar from Likutei Torah on Shobbos Shuva that looks at teshuva from a cosmic perspective, drawing a parallel between our own individual experience of teshuva and the world's global journey towards Moshiach. Within the miniature world of the human psyche, we examine the role that our thoughts play in bringing us to teshuva. While our thoughts are separate from our identity, they are the language our soul uses to communicate our perception of the world to ourselves and they thus become an integral part of creating internal change.
Throughout this episode, Chana takes us with her on her on her personal journey struggling with the words of this somewhat esoteric text and discovering her own relevance and meaning in the words.
Join us for the first of a 3-part series with Chana Hirschowitz, exploring the spiritual journey of the month of Tishrei.
In this episode, Chana introduces a beautiful maamar from Likutei Torah that encourages us to turn inward and look at Rosh Hashana from the perspective of our own soul's experience. We discover two dimensions to the neshama; a more superficial dimension that is vulnerable to outside influences and a deeper one that is as infinite and unchanging as G-d Himself. We discover that the greatest sin of all is when we lose sight of that core identity and identify instead with the sin that we've done. And we discover that real teshuva isn't about wallowing in guilt over our past misdeeds but redefining ourselves as the pure and precious soul that we really are.
Chana grounds her discussion in the powerful words of the maamar itself while offering her own honest, insightful and down to earth reflections.
Follow along in the maamar here.
When Rosh Chodesh Elul rolls around, there are mixed emotions associated with the upcoming month of introspection. Is it an ominous, tense and foreboding month as we await the dreaded day of judgement? Or is it a month of closeness, connection and hope, as we rekindle a loving relationship with G-d.
In this episode of our monthly maamar series, Zeldy Friedman takes us on a powerful journey through the maamar "Ani Ledodi" 5726. The maamar analyzes the famous analogy the Alter Rebbe gives for the month of Elul; a king who leaves his glorious palace and comes out to the field to spend time with the simple peasants. As we dig deeper into the details of this analogy, we rediscover Elul as a unique opportunity to tap into the deepest relationship in our lives. We rediscover Hashem as a King who is waiting with open arms to welcome us back home. And we rediscover ourselves as pure, untainted souls who, even in our darkest moments, always yearned to be close.
You can access the full text of the maamar in Hebrew and English here:
http://downloads.simplychassidus.com/Ani_LDodi_5726.pdf
In honor of Rosh Chodesh Av, Peshy Raitport joins us to explore a beautiful maamar of the Rebbe Rashab on the theme of ahavas Yisrael. What makes it so difficult for us to get along with other people and why is it that certain people trigger us more than others? This maamar challenges us to take an honest look at ourselves and recognize that at core of all jealousy and divisiveness is our own ego. When our own self-consciousness takes up all our emotional space, it leave little room for other people and for G-d to enter our lives. Peshy summarizes the core ideas of the maamar, reads one particularly relatable chapter inside and discusses some of its practical takeaways. She brings it all home by tying the ideas of the maamar into the period of mourning for the Beis Hamikdash that we are about to enter and how rectifying the sinas chinam that brought about its destruction is the key to bringing geulah.
Link to the Hebrew text of the maamar with linear English translation:
https://www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/83594/jewish/Lessons-in-Heichaltzu.htm
Link to purchase our Heichaltzu textbook to use as an aid to studying the original Hebrew text:
https://www.batshevalearningcenter.com/textbooks
This is the last episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, interview Mrs. Rivky Slonim, a shlucha at Binghamton University, an author and lecturer who focuses on the intersection of halacha and contemporary life with a special focus on Jewish women. We explore the challenges women face in integrating serious Torah learning into their lives and the steps we can take to overcome those challenges.
We discuss these questions and more:
What internal or external challenges have you faced in progressing with your Torah learning and what challenges do you think other women might face? How can we overcome those challenges? What resources do you recommend women use to make learning a part of their lives? To what extent is it important to make learning a priority at stages of life when it might be more difficult? What do you think is most important for a woman to make time to learn? How can we shift the culture in our communities to make Torah more accessible to women? What is the biggest shift we need in girls’ education today?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Minna Hershcopf for sponsoring this episode.
This is the sixth episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, we interview Rebbetzin Holly Pavlov, a lecturer, published author and founder and director of She’arim College of Jewish Studies. We explore the necessity for in-depth Torah study for women in the modern age and how to make Torah alive and relevant in the lives of Jewish women.
We discuss these questions and more:
What is your vision for the students of your seminary? What subjects do you think are most important for women to study and why? Do you think it’s important for women to study from the text specifically? Will learning halacha from the sources make women disrespectful of halacha? Is too much knowledge a dangerous thing? What gaps do you see in the girls’ education system and how can we fill those gaps?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Esty Kugel for sponsoring this episode in honor of Hadassah and all the work she does for Batsheva Learning Center.
This is the fifth episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, we interview Mrs. Sara Morozow, high school educator and beloved kallah teacher who lectures on topics related to chinuch for young women and teenage girls. We explore the role Torah study plays in the life of a modern frum woman both before and after she gets married and starts a family.
We discuss these questions and more:
In the years before they get married, many women are focused on building careers so they can support their future families. Where does studying Torah fit in? Is it the right thing for a woman to spend her time and energy on if it is more of a man's mitzvah? If a woman will one day have a family and not have time to invest in learning, should she do so now if she won't be able to keep it up? How does learning fit into a women's role as an akeres habayis? Hashkafically, men and women have distinct roles in Judaism. Should that prescribe how they each bring Torah into the home?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Chavi Russ for sponsoring this episode in the merit of any women waiting to have children. May they be blessed with זרע חיי וקיימא very soon.
This is the fourth episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, we interview Dr. Tali Loewenthal, a professor of Jewish studies at University College London and an academic whose research focuses on the history of Chassidic women. We explore the origins of the tradition amongst the Kabbalists to educate their daughters and how that has impacted the evolution of Chassidic women's Torah learning from the start of the Chassidic movement until the modern era.
We discuss these questions and more:
The Frierdiker Rebbe's Memoirs mentions an ancient tradition amongst the Kabbalists to educate their daughters. Where do we see evidence of this in the history of Kabbalah? How was this implemented practically? How did this perspective fit into the general perspective of the Kabbalists? Did this tradition continue to get passed down in subsequent generations? If so, was it only select women or did it ever become widespread throughout the entire community? Was this tradition passed down in any other Chassidic communities aside from Chabad? What was the goal of the Achos Hatemimim movement, started by the Frierdiker Rebbe? What in particular did the women study and in what format? How many women were involved? What impact did it have on Chabad girls education today?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Rivka Lazarus for sponsoring this episode in the zchus of a refuah sheleimah for Velvel Shlomo Hakohen ben Fayga Gittel.
This is the third episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, we interview Dr. Leslie Ginsparg Klein, the academic dean of Women’s Institute of Torah Seminary & College. She is a scholar, author and lecturer whose research focuses on the history of Bais Yaakov. We discuss the evolution of the Bais Yaakov movement in Eastern Europe and the impact it has on girls’ education today.
We discuss these questions and more:
What theological beliefs and cultural attitudes towards women's learning existed leading up to Sara Schenirer's revolution? What kind of resistance did Sara Schenirer face in starting her movement? How did she finally gain support? Were there other parallel movements happening in other places at the same time? What made Bais Yaakov unique? How might the interruption of World War 2 have influenced the development of the movement? How has (or hasn't) the culture and values of the original Bais Yaakov influenced modern Bais Yaakov schools? What are the biggest misconceptions people have about the history of Bais Yaakov? What do you think is most inspiring about Sara Schenirer's story?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Esther Babayov for sponsoring this episode, in honor of her family.
This is the second episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, we interview Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe, scholar, lecturer and board member at Batsheva Learning Center. He discusses the core halachic principles that impact the development of halacha in general and the development of women’s Torah study in particular. Rabbi Yaffe zooms in on the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s nuanced view of women’s Torah study, based on sources from the Rebbe’s letters and talks.
We discuss these questions and more:
In what circumstances can and should halacha adapt to the times? What justifies the modern shift in women’s education? Why is this more valid than other progressive movements that may have strayed from tradition? Should we be concerned about women who aren’t learning for the “right” reasons? Is that a factor that is brought up in any halachic sources? What did the Lubavitcher Rebbe say regarding women's Torah learning? Did he ever mention Gemara specifically? Did the Rebbe believe Gemara learning is only permissible for individual women who want it or that it should be taught on a communal level? What about topics in Gemara that are not relevant to practical halacha?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Chava and Chaim Aharon Green for sponsoring this episode in honor of their daughter, Devorah Leah.
This is the first episode in our new podcast series exploring a woman's relationship with Talmud Torah. In this episode, we interview Laurie Novick, a talented educator and director of Deracheha.org. She explores the original halachic sources that discuss the mitzvah of Talmud Torah for women and lays the groundwork for understanding the fundamental halachic issues surrounding this topic.
We discuss these questions and more:
Is a woman obligated to study Torah? If yes, what? Aren't there sources that forbid Torah study for women? How do different halachic authorities interpret those statements? There seems to be a change in the way we approach this issue in the modern age. How can the halacha change? What about Gemara? Why is it so controversial and what are the arguments for and against making it accessible to women?
Visit our website to sign up to be the first to receive our updated source booklet which will include all the sources referenced in this episode (and more!): www.batshevalearningcenter.com
Thank you to Yitty and Leibel Gniwisch for sponsoring this episode.
In this episode of our monthly series, Adina Weisner joins us to explore the famous maamar "V'atah Tetzaveh", in honor of Gimmel Tammuz.
What does it look like when our relationship with G-d is an expression of the core of who we are? How do we peel away the layers of the relationship that may be superimposed by external drama and discover a yearning for G-d from deep within ourselves? How can we make Judaism an authentic, natural part of our lives?
Join us as we learn excerpts of this profound maamar inside and discuss its practical relevance in our modern world.
What's the difference between healthy self-esteem and inflated ego? Between honest self-awareness and unhealthy self-consciousness? Between respectful expectation and self-centered entitlement? Between superficial satisfaction and deep joy?
In this episode of our monthly maamar series, Shoshana Wolf and Hadassah Shemtov explore a rich and relatable maamar of the Frierdiker Rebbe in preparation for Shavuos. The maamar (linked here) is based on the narrative of receiving the Torah and the two opposing qualities that were integral to the process: awe and joy. Using a profound analysis of the human psyche, we come to appreciate the nature of true humility and its ability to bring us authentic joy. Listen in as we read excerpts of the maamar inside and uncover its relevance in our own personal lives.
Visit www.batshevalearningcenter.com/textbooks to purchase a textbook that will aid you in studying this maamar on your own.
Ponder Point #6 - From The Archives
A one hour discussion with Rabbi Avraham Zajac.
Explore the sources of topics you always wondered about.
We've all had moments of inspiration, when a deeper, truer part of ourselves emerges and our everyday struggles melt away. But inspiration doesn't last long, and when it fades, we come crashing back into our ordinary lives as though it never happened. What if we could approach inspiration differently? What if we could transform our regular, human selves into a window into our G-dly consciousness? The key is to start not with spirituality, but with an honest awareness of ourselves and the messages our inner animal needs to hear.
Join us for a powerful episode in honor of Rosh Chodesh Iyar, in which Zisi Zirkind explores a maamar from Likutei Torah, "Adam Ki Yakriv Mikem" as a practical framework for implementing the avodah of Sefiras Haomer. She reads excerpts of the maamar inside, explains the flow of ideas and discusses some of her personal reflections and takeaways.
This episode of our monthly Maamar series explores the concept of leaving Egypt as both a global, historic journey towards Moshiach and a personal, daily journey out of our own comfort zones. What is the interplay between our personal redemption and the global one and what kind of significance can that give to our daily struggles? Delve into the text of a beautiful maamar "Kimei Tzeischa" 5742 with Menucha Schwartz, and discover how yetzias miztrayim is not just a one-time event but an ongoing process that each of us take part in every single day. It's about a process that G-d initiated thousands of years ago and one that we continue to develop throughout the rest of history.
Why do we name the holiday of Purim after the lottery that Haman threw to destroy us? How can the randomness inherent in a lottery symbolize a miracle Hashem deliberately orchestrated to save us?
In this episode of our monthly maamar series, Shaindle Sharfstein and Hadassah Shemtov explore a profound maamar on what the core of the Purim story is all about. They discuss the nihilistic perspective that Haman represents, the flaw in his reasoning and what that tells us about the nature of free choice. They share the practical implications these concepts have on own lives and on current world events.
Here is a link to the text of the maamer.
In this episode, Goldie Markovits and Hadassah Shemtov study a short maamar about the spiritual Egypt inside of all of us and how we can experience a personal exodus. They explore how it is possible to bridge the gap between the cool, calm, collected mind and the fierce, fiery, flickering heart.
How do we allow the truth we experience in our mind to touch our heart, inspire it, and ultimately, release the unbounded energy contained within it?
In this episode of our Monthly Maamar series, Ettel Kaplan and Hadassah Shemtov explore the existential yearning that our soul experiences while in a body, based on the sixth maamar in Kuntres Umaayon. Their discussion flips our picture of Judaism on its head and challenges us to consider:
Is life about finding the answers or uncovering our deepest questions?
Is it about arriving at knowledge of the truth or living in wonder of the unknown?
Is it about finding contentment or discovering our unquenchable thirst for G-d?
"No thought can grasp You at all, but You are grasped by the inner most will of the heart."
In this episode, Yitty Gniwisch and Hadassah Shemtov discuss a maamar from Hemshech Samech Vov based on this intruiging line from the Zohar. Through the words of the maamar and through the lens of their own experience, they explore the parent-child relationship, what makes it so unique and why is it the perfect parallel for a Jew's essential relationship with G-d.
Listen in for a glimpse into a beautiful maamar and two women's profound reflections on it.
In this first episode of our new monthly ma'amar series, Chayale Tzukernik and Hadassah Shemtov explore the ma'amar "Pasach Eliyahu 5715".
They discuss two opposing perspectives on reality; the natural vs. the miraculous, a G-d centered universe vs. an ego centered universe. Ultimately, these two realms must fuse together both, both in the world and in ourselves. This fusion lies at the core of what 19 Kislev is all about.
Come celebrate with us!
Ponder Point #5 - From The Archives
A one hour discussion with Rabbi Breitowitz, a world renowned teacher from Jerusalem, in which we explore the Halachic definition of an Agunah and what we can do to combat the issue.
Explore the sources of topics you always wondered about.
Ponder Point #4 - From The Archives
A one hour discussion with Mrs Ella Wilhelm delving into the fascinating stories of Agadda and discovering their true meaning.
Explore the sources of topics you always wondered about.
Ponder Point #3 - From the Archives
A one hour discussion with Mrs Chana Ginsburg, a therapist, counselor and brilliant scholar and teacher of Kabbalah and Chassidus.
Explore the sources of topics you always wondered about.
Ponder Point #2 - From the Archives
A one hour discussion with Rabbi Shlomo Yaffe.
Explore the sources of topics you always wondered about.
Ponder Point #1 - From the Archives
A one hour discussion with Mrs Chana Silberstein exploring relationships, trust, and life challenges.
Explore the sources of topics you always wondered about.
Daf 49 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 48 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 47 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 46 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 45 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 44 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 43 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 42 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 41 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 40 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 39 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 38 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 37 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 36 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 35 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 34 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 33 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 32 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 31 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 30 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 29 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 28 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 27 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 26 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Gavi Groberman for sponsoring this episode.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 25 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 24 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Devorah Leah Paltiel for sponsoring this episode in honor of her grandfather's yartzeit: Moshe ben Nissan.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 23 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 22 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 21 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Chaya Nourafshan for sponsoring this episode.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 20 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 19 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 18 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 17 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 16 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 15 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 14 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 13 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 12 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Adina Weisner for sponsoring this episode.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 11 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 10 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 9 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 8 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 7 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 6 of Maseches Sotah.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 5 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to an anonymous sponsor from Australia who sponsored today's daf in honor of her birthday.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 4 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Raizy Leitner for sponsoring this episode.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 3 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Nechamie Silberberg for sponsoring this episode.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Daf 2 of Maseches Sotah.
Thank you to Marisa Lewitan for sponsoring this episode.
This series is hosted by Hadassah Shemtov and Devorah Silberstein.
Join us on this journey through Maseches Sotah, hosted by Devorah Silberstein and Hadassah Shemtov.
Torah Ohr on Megillas Esther Part 3.
This episode is sponsored by Aliza Gomes, in memory of Gershon Hanoch ben Yosef.
Torah Ohr on Megillas Esther Part 2.
This podcast is sponsored by Rebecca Ghods in merit of a refuah shleima for Yaffa bas Janet Rivka and all cholim of Am Yisrael.
Torah Ohr on Megillas Esther Part 1.
This episode is sponsored by Gitty Rappaport in honor of her son, Yitzy's bar mitzvah.