The Greatest Parasha Podcast
Weekly Insight into Perashat Hashavua, a project of the Sephardic Synagogue Fellowship, this podcast brings thoughtful Torah conversations to life, designed to inspire Shabbat table discussion and deepen connection to the weekly Parasha.
Episodes
Ki Tetse: Rabbanit Shani Taragin on Hinuch & Communal Responsibility
“If a child can’t recognize authority, how can you expect a community to?”We are honored to have on Rabbanit Shani Taragin who currently serves on the advisory committee for the Mizrachi Olami Shalhevet program, as Rosh Beit Midrash for the women in Yeshiva University’s new academic program in Israel, and together with her husband, Reuven, as Educational Director for Mizrachi Olami.
Shofetim: Rav Itamar Eldar on the Higher Ethics of Ir Miklat
In this week's episode, Raymond Ashkenazie and Emma Dayan are are joined by Rav Itamar Eldar to compare the descriptions of Ir Miklat in the books of Bemidbar and Devarim, and to note the important moral lessons that arise from those differences.Rav Itamar Eldar is the Head of the hesder yeshiva Orot Shaul in Tel Aviv,.
Re’eh: Rabbi Jeremy Teichman on Tzedaka and Avoda Zara
We are joined by Rabbi Jeremy Teichman (of Ramaz and KJ) to take a deep dive into Tzedaka and its practical implications and its fundamental significance. Essay attached: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19C9xDD6WgwHoUmpw5KJvRanNeyq93rI7VOTaYXxJKsE/edit?usp=sharing
Ekeb: Rav Joey Mizrahi on Rain and Faith
Rabbi Joey Mizrahi joins us to explore how Eretz Yisrael is fundamentally different from Egypt: it is not sustained by the Nile and predictable irrigation, but by rain that depends on Hashem. We discuss how the perasha frames life in the land as a relationship built on trust, mitzvot, and moral responsibility rather than self-sufficiency. The conversation also widens into a discussion of Avodah Za
Vaetchanan: Ms. Yael Leibowitz on National Nevuah
In this week's episode, we are joined by Ms. Yael Leibowitz to discuss the institution of prophecy. Together, we examine whether having designated neviim was the ideal way to transmit God's word to the nation or whether all of Bnei Yisrael was meant to receive prophecy.
Devarim & Shabbat Chazon: Rabbi Naftali Besser on Seeing the Truth
In this week's episode, we are joined by Rabbi Naftali Besser to understand how our blind spots—shaped by ego, biases, and misjudgments—are the root causes of tragedy and misunderstanding.
Matot-Masei: Avi Garson on Tribalism and Nationhood
Most forms of tribalism threaten national unity, but what does the Torah teach about balancing difference and collective responsibility? How do tribal distinctions help a community flourish? This episode explores Jewish tribal identity, Torah, and modern nationhood in the context of Matot-Masei and America’s 250th birthday.
Pinehas: Rabbi Shmuel Phillips on the Berit Shalom
This week we are joined by Rabbi Shmuel Phillips to discuss zealotry and what true peace means in the Torah. To learn more about Rabbi Phillips and his two incredible books: https://www.talmudreclaimed.com
Hukat Balak: Rabbi Joey Soffer on Mei Meriva
This week, we are joined by Rabbi Soffer to discuss the kiddush Hashem that was supposed to happen at Mei Meriva and what we can learn from it today.
Korach: Rabbi Joey Faur on the Truth About Leadership
We are joined by Rabbi Joey Faur to discuss why the story hinges on the concept of kedusha as divine rather than magical, and what that means for leadership today.Horizontal Society by Chacham Faur: https://korenpub.com/products/the-collected-works-of-hakham-dr-jose-faur?srsltid=AfmBOooONELCVQCRyFIS-jbxi1kd5b0S29heOIrK62XY7mFMAx1K3373
Shelah: Mrs. Esther Hidary on the Betrayal of the Covenant
In this week's episode, we are joined by Mrs. Esther Hidary to unpack the deeper ideological issue underpinning the refusal of Bnei Yisrael and the spies to enter the land of Israel.
Beha’alotekha: Binyamin Fox on the Inversion of Jewish History
This week, we’re joined by Binyamin Fox, who picked one of the Rav’s best-known derashot on Beha’alotekha. Together, we trace how a scattered-feeling parsha turns into a single story about a redemption that was almost ours.
Naso: Rabbi Nathan Zaboulani on Shimshon and Nezirut
In this week's episode, Rabbi Zaboulani joins to discuss the purpose of nezirut and how being a nazir was fundamental to Shimshon's style of leadership.
Shavout & Naso: Why We Learn on Shavuot
Thoughts based on a shiur given by Rabbi David Aaron. We explore why the chag has no physical mitzvah, what really happened at Sinai, and how Naso shows us how to live inside it. Sorry for the different episode format this week, back to normal next week!
Bemidbar: Rav Binny Freedman on Counting in the Desert and Receiving Torah
We are joined by Rav Binny Freedman, who discusses the insights of counting the Omer, the hidden significance of the desert, and the journey to achieve Torah.
Behar Behukotai: Rabbi Richard Tobias on the Underlying Lessons of Shemita
In this week's episode, Rabbi Tobias joins to discuss the deeper lessons behind shemita, and how those lessons relate to the larger themes of Sefer Vayikra as a whole.
Emor: Emma Dayan on the Lechem HaPanim
This week, we dive into the deeper purpose of the shulchan and the lechem hapanim.
Aharei Mot-Kedoshim: Michael Franco on Our People and Our Purpose
This week, Dr. Michael Franco joins us to explore the central themes of Aharei Mot-Kedoshim. Follow along using the charts below:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MrxTG_TfmwEX0C7yoe9DrlZAECJkJ-wT/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115602880636174608461&rtpof=true&sd=trueTo hear more from Dr. Franco, check out his podcast:https://open.spotify.com/show/3v3NH9LEJZIJCuxfHYSHF1?si=64UxNzu_Q2GiiwdAz9J-
Tazria Tahor (Metzora): Rabbi Joseph Beyda on "Understanding" Tzaraat
This week, we are joined by Rabbi Jospeh Beyda to try and derive meaning from a seriously technical parasha.
Pesach: Yaakov Wolff on Freedom, Money, and Dignity
We are joined by Yaakov Wolff, podcast host of Shtark Tank (https://open.spotify.com/show/34xll8GhTfu1BiRdhb8AyR?si=85ae84dadad2470f) to discuss Pesach and Yetziat Mitzrayim.Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom!
Tzav: Rabbanit Sally Mayer on Understanding the Korban Todah
This week, we are joined by Rabbanit Sally Mayer to delve into the deeper meaning behind the Korban Todah!
Vaykira: Roundtable on the Purpose of Korbanot
This week we switch things up with a roundtable format. Benny Attar, Nava Gelb, and Adin Halbfinger join to discuss the real purpose of korbanot, working through four classic positions: obedience to divine command, moral repentance and confronting mortality, the Rambam's cultural accommodation theory, and the kabbalistic view of spiritual repair.
Vayekhel-Pekude: David Tawil on Materialism, Spirituality and Intention
This week, we are joined by David Tawil to understand our contemporary understanding of materialism, purpose and spiritual connection. David offers deep insights into the symbolism of the Mishkan and the Egel, emphasizing how these lessons can inspire us to infuse daily life with higher purpose and intentionality.Please join us in continuing to pray and learn Torah for the strength and success of
Ki Tisa: Rabbi Dani Ritholtz on Aharon's Leadership
In this weeks episode, Rabbi Dani Ritholtz joins us to explore Aharon's role in the golden calf crisis, examining his motives and transformation into Kohen Gadol.
Tesave: Rav Daniel Peled-Schwartz on Fullness and Faith
In this week's episode, Rav Daniel Peled-Schwartz joins to discuss the meaning of fullness as it relates to the mishkan and our adovdat hashem.Rav Daniel Peled-Schwartz is the JLIC Rabbi at Columbia University.
Terumah: Dr. Miriam Tawil on the Purpose of the Mishkan
This week, Dr. Miriam Tawil joins to discuss the purpose of the mishkan and how we can continue to bring God into our midst today.Dr. Miriam Tawil is the founder and director of Midreshet Eshel in Jerusalem.
Mishpatim: Rabbi Dr. Richard Hidary on Communal Responsibility
In this week's episode, Rabbi Dr. Richard Hidary joins to unpack a variety of topics in the parasha, including eved ivri, berit haaganot, and shabbat shekalim. Rabbi Dr. Richard Hidary is an associate professor of Judaic Studies at Yeshiva University and a rabbi at Sephardic Synagogue.
Yitro: Rabbi David Tawil on Crossing Spiritual Lines
In this week's episode, Rabbi David Tawil joins to delve into the significance of boundaries at Har Sinai and their role in spiritual growth. Rabbi Tawil explains how the boundaries set during the revelation were crucial for the Jewish people's spiritual survival and how crossing them could lead to disaster. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding personal limits to avoid
Beshalach: Yoetzet Halacha Yaffa Setton on Shirat HaYam
In this week's episode, Yoetzet Halacha Yaffa Setton joins to explore the significance of song in our relationship with God and the natural leadership of Miriam.
Bo: Rabbi Uri Pilichowski on Recognizing Modern Miracles
In this week's episode, Rabbi Uri Pilichowski joins to explore the miracles around us. Rabbi Pilichowski shares insights on recognizing modern-day miracles and the importance of strengthening our relationship with God. Tune in to discover how ancient lessons can inspire us today.Rabbi Uri Pilichowski is a senior educator at Nefesh B’Nefesh’s Zionist Education Initiative, where he inspires thou
Shemot: Rav Menachem Leibtag on the Purpose of Yetziat Mitzrayim
In this week's episode, Rav Menachem Leibtag joins to help us better understand the purpose of yetziat mitzrayim, discussing why God needed Paroh to kick the Jews out of Egypt and how that collective memory shapes us as a people.Rav Menachem Leibtag is a teacher at Yeshivat Gush Etzion, Midreshet Lindenbaum, Shaalvim, and Matan. Read more of his essays on Parashat HaShavua on his website, tana
Vayechi: Rav Moish Kornblum on Yaakov's Blessings
In this week’s episode, we are joined by Rabbi Moish Kornblum to delve into the complexities of parental blessings in the Torah, focusing on the blessings given by Yaakov Avinu to his sons. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the nature of blessings and their impact on personal growth.Rav Moish is the Assistant Dean at Yeshiva Orayta and former congregational rabbi in Cape Town.
Vayigash: Rabbi Nathan Dweck on Yosef’s Test
In this week’s episode, we are joined by Rabbi Nathan Dweck to explore the motivation behind Yosef’s testing of his brothers. The discussion delves deeper into the emotional and psychological aspects of the narrative, examining how these themes are reflected in contemporary life. Rabbi Nathan Dweck serves as High School Minyan Rabbi and Torah Programming Director at Congregation Beth Torah, Mashgi
Mikets & Hanukah: Rabbi Yuda Drizen on dreams in the Torah
In this week’s episode, we are joined by Rav Yuda Drizen to explore the meaning of dreams in the Torah, how those dreams speak to our lived reality today, and how these ideas connect to the holiday of Hanukah.
Vayesheb: Rav Alex Israel on Temptation and Sexuality
In this week’s episode, we are joined by Rav Alex Israel to discuss the righteousness of Yosef in the face of temptation and the broader theme of sexuality and power throughout Sefer Bereshit.Rabbi Alex Israel teaches Tanakh at Midreshet Lindenbaum, Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, Matan Hasharon; and is faculty at the Rabbi Sacks Legacy. Read his Torah and listen to his podcasts at www.alexisrael.org
Vayishlach: Ms. Talia Harcsztark on the Concept of Chosenness
In this week’s episode, we are joined by Ms. Talia Harcsztark to reflect on the pattern of the selected and rejected son that’s featured over and over again in Sefer Bereshit. What does it mean to be chosen? What are our responsibilities as the chosen people? Ms. Harcsztark is the former Chair of the Tanakh department at the Yeshivah Flatbush, and she currently teaches at Pelech Girls High School
Vayetse: Rabbi Richard Hidary on Yaakov's Vow
In this week's episode, we are joined by Rabbi Dr. Richard Hidary for an insightful exploration of Parashat Vayetse. Through a detailed analysis of the text, Rabbi Hidary discusses Yaakov's vow and its implications, offering a nuanced understanding of the relationship between faith and action. Rabbi Hidary is an Associate Professor of Judaic studies at Yeshiva University and Rabbi at Sepha
Toledot: Rabbi Joseph Dweck on Birthright and the Land of Israel
In this episode, we sit down with Rabbi Joseph Dweck for a thoughtful discussion on Parashat Toledot. Through a close reading of the text, Rabbi Dweck explains the meaning of Yitzchak’s blessings to Yaakov and Esav, how those blessings relate to the Land of Israel, and what the Torah reveals about Esav’s character that ultimately leads to the loss of both the birthright and the blessing.Rabbi Jose
Haye Sarah: Rav Judah Dardik on Navigating Loss & Legacy
In this episode, we are joined by Rav Judah Dardik to explore the profound themes of loss and legacy in Parashat Haye Sarah. Through a thoughtful examination of the text, they discuss how Abraham's experiences offer timeless lessons on dealing with grief and the importance of passing on values to future generations.Rabbi Judah Dardik is the Sgan Rosh Yeshiva and a Gemara R"am at Yeshivat
Vayera: Rabbi Ikey Tawil on Akedat Yitzhak
In this episode, we are joined by Rabbi Ikey Tawil for a fresh interpretation of the famous story of the Akedah. Through a close reading of the text, Rabbi Tawil reveals how a deeper understanding of the peshat can resolve some of the story’s classic moral dilemmas.Rabbi Ikey Tawil is the head Rabbi at Kol Israel Congregation, Mashgiach Ruchani at the Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School, and he
Lekh Lekha: Rabbi Albert Setton on Embracing Our Identity
In this episode, the hosts are joined by Rabbi Albert Setton to explore the enigmatic figure of Malkitzedek in Parashat Lekh Lekha. Together, they examine his mysterious identity, his role in Avram’s journey, and the deeper meaning behind his brief yet powerful appearance. Join us for an engaging and insightful discussion on faith, purpose, and spiritual identity.Rabbi Albert Setton serves as Rabb
Noah: Rav Yitzchak Blau on Noah's Trauma & Legacy
In this episode, the hosts are joined by Rav Yitzchak Blau to delve into Parashat Noah. We explore the emotional and spiritual challenges faced by Noah post-flood, discussing themes of trauma, survival, and the transition to Avraham's narrative. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on the complexities of faith and humanity.Rabbi Yitzchak Blau is a Rosh Yeshiva at Yeshivat Orayta and te
Bereshit: Hosts on Tzelem Elokim
For the first episode of Season Two, the hosts explore Tzelem Elokim, the idea of being created in the image of God and its practical and religious implications.Join us as we begin the journey of starting the Torah over again!
V'zot Haberakha: Rabbi Ricky Hidary on Learning from Our Mistakes
In this final episode of the season, Linda Cohen and Ronnie Hidary learn with Rabbi Ricky Hidary about how the tribe of Levi turned one of their character flaws into their greatest strength, which is hinted to in the parasha.
Vayeilech: Rabbi Ephraim Gabbai on the story of Gedaliah
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen interview Rabbi Ephraim Gabbai on a range of topics from the haftarah to Gedaliah which culminates in a message for the ages.
Nitsabim: Rabbi Ralph Tawil on Individual Responsibility
Rabbi Ralph Tawil (all the way from Israel!) shares with Linda Cohen and Ronnie Hidary the patterns and nuances in this week's parasha that emphasize the role and responsibility of the individual within the nation.
Ki Tavoh: Ronald Benun on the Blessings and Curses
Ronnie Hidary interviews Ronald Benun on parallelism throughout the Torah as it relates to the Blessings and the Curses of this weeks parasha.
Ki Tetse: Avi Garson on Social Justice
Linda Cohen and Ronnie Hidary interview Avi Garson, co-founder of The Habura and Tikvah Fellow, on how the countless mitzvot found in Parashat Ki Tetse are meant to form the structure of justice within our society.
Shofetim: Rabbi Albert Setton on Kings and modernity
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda interview Rabbi Albert Setton on the laws of kings and how they apply today.
Eikev: Rabbi Ricky Hidary on Shema
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen interview Rabbi Dr. Richard Hidary, comparing and contrasting the first two paragraphs of Shema
Va'ethanan w/Sander Weizman
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Sander Weitzman discuss different themes brought out in the parasha.
Devarim: Rabbi Joseph Beyda on Moshe's roles
Ronnie Hidary and Robyn Beyda interview Rabbi Joseph Beyda on Moshes shift into the "Moshe Rabeinu" we refer to today that takes place in Sefer Devarim.
Matot-Maase w/Arlette Anteby & Joyce Louz
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen talk with Arlette and Joyce about vows and our covenant with Gd.
Pinehas w/RJD
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda have a discussion with Rabbi Joseph Dweck on Benot Selofhad and Jewish law.
Balak w/ Rav Efroni
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen interview Rav Efroni on Balaks unique qualities
Hukat w/Yoetzet Halacha Yaffa Setton
Linda Cohen and Ronnie Hidary discuss Moshe's role of leadership and connection with the nation that can be seen in this week's parasha with Yoetzet Halacha Yaffa Setton.
Korach w/ Linda Cohen
Linda Cohen and Robyn Beyda discuss Korach's rebellion and reflect on we can learn from it.
Shelach w/ Rabbi Joey Miz
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda interview Rabbi Joey Miz on Chet Hameraglim and Sisit
Beha'alotcha: Ronnie Mizrachi on Miriam
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen interview Ronnie Miz on Miriam and the ethics of leadership
Naso: Linda Cohen on Nazir
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda discuss Nazir
Shavuot Special w/ Rabbi Moses Hidary
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen interview Rabbi Moses Hidary
Behar/ Bechukotai w/ Linda Cohen
Linda Cohen, Ronnie Hidary, and Robyn Beyda discuss Behar/ Bechukotai
Achrei Mot/ Kedoshim w/ Rav Judah Dardik
Ronnie Hidary interviews Rav Judah Dardik on Achrei Mot/ Kedoshim
Perkei Avot Special w Ms. Talia Harcsztark
Ronnie Hidary and Linda Cohen discuss Perkei Avot
Shemini: Discussion on Avodah Zarah
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda discuss Nadav and Avihu and what constitutes Avodah Zarah
The Hol Hamoed Special
Linda Cohen and Ronnie Hidary debate on Kiriyat Yam Suf with Robyn Beyda as moderator
Pesach Special with Jacqueline Mizrachi
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda interview Jacqueline Mizrachi on her thoughts on the upcoming holiday
Vayikra: Rabbi Ricky Hidary on his trip to Ethiopia
Rabbi Ricky Hidary shares details of his trip to the Jewish community in Ethiopia and connects it to the parasha.Struggle to Save Ethiopian Jewry - https://ssej.org/
Pekudei: Conversation on the Mishkan
Ronnie Hidary, Robyn Beyda, and Linda Cohen discuss the implications of the creation of the Mishkan in this weeks parasha.
Vayakhel: Rabbi David Tawil on the art of giving
Linda Cohen interviews Rabbi David Tawil on Vayakhel and the art of giving.
Ki Tisa: Rabbi Richard Tobias on Chet HaEgel
Ronnie Hidary, Robyn Beyda, and Linda Cohen interview Rabbi Richard Tobias on the sin of the golden calf and the nature of miracles.
Tetzaveh: Rabbi Ricky Hidary on the Kohen Gadol's garments
Ronnie Hidary, Robyn Beyda, and Linda Cohen interview Rabbi Ricky Hidary on the significance of the Kohen Gadol's uniform
Terumah: Rabbi Albert Setton on Community and Identity in Judaism
Linda Cohen and Robyn Beyda interview Rabbi Albert Setton on Parashat Terumah, Zionism, and the role of community and identity in Judaism.
Mishpatim: Rabbi Nathan Dweck on Slavery, ethics, and the living Torah
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda interview Rabbi Nathan Dweck on the Torahs efforts to get rid of slavery and it's implications.
Yitro: Linda Cohen on Amalek
Ronnie Hidary and Robyn Beyda interview Linda Cohen on Amalek
Beshalach: Ronnie Hidary on Brit Ben Habetarim and the Splitting of the Sea
Ronnie Hidary shares on the connection between Brit Ben Habetarim and the Splitting of the Sea of Reeds along with cohosts Robyn Beyda and Linda Cohen.
Bo: Rabbi Menachem Leibtag on the Exodus
Ronnie Hidary, Robyn Beyda, and Linda Cohen interview Rabbi Menachem Leibtag on the true meaning of the peshat of the parasha and the timeline of the Exodus narrative
Vayera: Esther Hidary on the Journey Toward Spiritual Independence
Ronnie Hidary, Linda Cohen, and Robyn Beyda interview Ms. Esther Hidary; exploring the signs and wonders, God's power and human perception of Him, the role of miracles in faith, and the journey toward spiritual independence.
Shemot: Linda Cohen on the roots of nationhood
Ronnie Hidary and Robyn Beyda Interview Linda Cohen on Moshes character and the roots of the nation.
Vayechi: Ms. Rachel Abraham on Josephs forgiveness
Robyn Beyda, Linda Cohen, and Ronnie Hidary interview Ms. Rachel Abraham on the end of Sefer Bereshiet.
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