Episodes
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This week on Madlik, we're diving into a fascinating exploration of the Jewish calendar - a topic that's not just about marking time, but about renewal, liberation, and the very essence of what it means to be Jewish.
In our discussion of Parashat Bo, Rabbi Mintz and I unpack the significance of the first commandment given to the Israelites as a nation: establishing their own calendar. We examine how this seemingly simple act was actually a radical departure from other ancient calendars, and how it embodied core Jewish values of human agency and imperfection.
Some highlights from our conversation:
- Why the lunar-solar Jewish calendar was seen as revolutionary by other cultures
- The deeper meaning behind witnessing the new moon
- How the Essenes and early Muslims viewed the Jewish calendar
- The beautiful tension between divine perfection and human imperfection in our timekeeping
This episode really drove home for me how our calendar reflects so much about our worldview as Jews. I hope it sparks some thoughtful reflection for you too.
Tune in for a mind-expanding journey through time, Torah, and Jewish thought!
Please also be sure and give the Sefaria Source Sheet Link in the notes: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/620499 -
Have you ever wondered why we don't raise our hands during prayer in Judaism? It's a question that might seem trivial at first, but as we explored in our latest Madlik episode, it opens up a fascinating world of gesture, ritual, and cultural evolution.
As I sat watching the presidential inauguration, I couldn't help but notice the raised hand during the oath of office. This simple gesture, so commonplace in our civic life, is surprisingly absent from our religious practice. Why is that? And what can we learn from the rich tradition of hand gestures in our biblical texts?
In our conversation with Rabbi Adam Mintz, we delved into the surprising prevalence of hand gestures in the Torah. Did you know that the Hebrew Bible has the richest source of gesture phrases of any ancient Near Eastern religion or literature? It's true! From Aaron lifting his rod to God's promise of redemption with an outstretched arm, our sacred texts are filled with powerful non-verbal communication.
But here's the kicker: despite this rich heritage, hand gestures are virtually non-existent in modern Jewish ritual and prayer. It's a stark contrast that begs the question: what happened?
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Missing episodes?
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the nativity of Moses in Parashat Shemot. Delving into the dramatic birth story of the Jewish people’s greatest leader, we uncover parallels with other ancient “savior” narratives, includoing a home bathed in light, three wise men, astologers reading the stars, danger, murder, flight and return of the hero. The birth story of Moses clearly mirrors other “savior” narratives, including those of Abraham and Jesus, highlighting its broader cultural significance. Why does this pivotal tale seem isolated within the larger Exodus narrative? We discuss the tension between hero worship and the emphasis on collective redemption… all while pondering the significance of what’s left unsaid in the Torah’s account. Discover how this foundational story sets the stage for the epic journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/617755
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/01/16/the-nativity-of-moses/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iJQldtucNxU
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This week on Madlik, we're diving into a fascinating topic that's close to my heart - grandparenting in Jewish tradition. Our discussion centers around the iconic blessing Jacob gives to his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh in Parashat Vayechi.
I'm excited to share some insights I've never noticed before about this pivotal moment. We'll explore how Jacob essentially adopts his grandsons, saying "they shall be mine," and what this reveals about intergenerational relationships in our tradition.
We'll also look at how this blessing became so central in Jewish practice, being recited every Friday night to bless our children. I was struck by how much depth there is to unpack here about the unique role grandparents can play.
As always, Rabbi Adam Mintz joins me for this illuminating conversation. And in a bit of perfect timing, he had some exciting personal news to share related to our topic!
I hope you'll tune in for this meaningful discussion on the power of grandparenting to shape Jewish identity and values across generations. The insights we uncovered really made me see this familiar blessing in a new light.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/615769
Transcript on episode webpage: https://wordpress.com/post/madlik.com/5667
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NDz8du4I_GM
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This week on Madlik, we’re exploring how Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers offers profound insights for our own lives. At a time when many of us make resolutions and fresh starts, this episode couldn’t be more timely.
We’ll examine how Joseph and his brothers navigate the complex dynamics of forgiveness, rehabilitation, and moving from a paradigm of grievance and victimhood to challenge and opportunity… Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz discuss the psychological aspects of sin and redemption, drawing parallels to our own experiences with failure and the challenge of moving forward.
We’ll also touch on the fascinating concept of “making lemonade from lemons” and its American/Jewish roots and the contribution of Julius Rosenwald and the Tuskegee Institute.
Whether you’re grappling with personal setbacks or seeking inspiration for the year ahead, this episode offers valuable insights on turning adversity into opportunity and embracing a narrative of ambition and success.
Join us for another thought-provoking discussion that bridges ancient wisdom with modern life. Remember, whatever your resolutions may be, stumbling once or twice doesn’t define you – it’s how you harness those moments that truly matters.
Shabbat Shalom and Happy New Year
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/614569
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/01/03/making-lemonade-from-lemons/
View episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/WE3Jd7otrCk
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This Shabbat Hanukah Madlik episode explores the intriguing parallels between John Lennon's iconic song "Imagine" and traditional Jewish concepts. Delving into the Shabbat zemirot "Ma Yedidut," Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz uncover surprising connections between Lennon's utopian vision and Judaism's aspirational views of Shabbat and the World to Come. The discussion challenges the notion that Judaism is solely particularistic, revealing its universal and redemptive aspects while also recognizing the conecpt of preferential love. How does the Jewish tradition balance particularism with universalism? Discover the unexpected interplay between modern secular ideals and ancient Jewish wisdom.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/613636
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/27/imagine-and-the-jews/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u6xn990AcCw
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This week on Madlik, we’re diving into Parashat Vayeshev and exploring the Joseph story through a unique lens. Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we unpack this pivotal narrative that bridges Genesis and Exodus.
We’ll be taking a hard look at the uncomfortable truth at the heart of this parasha: human trafficking. It’s not just about Joseph in Egypt – we’re talking about the profound implications of ethnic groups selling their own people into slavery.
We’ll also examine how this story fits into the broader context of biblical literature. Is it a court legend? Wisdom literature? Or something entirely different?
Plus, we’ll discuss how the sale of Joseph has echoed through Jewish tradition, from Yom Kippur liturgy to modern-day rituals. It’s an approach that might break the oppressor/oppressed lense used by so many today.
Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/612024
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/19/joseph-slave-trade/
Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QkhOPS54nfc
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From the first chapters of Genesis, when Adam named the animals, naming in the Biblical narrative is a powerful tool which defines destiny. This process reaches a climax with the re-naming of Jacob and the birth of Israel. Although "Israel" is normally translated as "struggling with God" we explore other meanings that align more powerfully with the metamorphosis that Yaakov experiences. Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the nuances of this name Israel, that until today defines and inspires the Jewish People and their land.
Sefaria source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/610333
Transcript: https://madlik.com/2024/12/13/what-israel-means/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xQt2m7poFCE
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz for another week of Madlik Disruptive Torah. We explore the biblical narratives surrounding Jacob and Abraham, the sanctity of places in the Ancient Near East and Jewish tradition, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in contemporary discussions about Jerusalem. The conversation highlights the deep connections between history, identity, and spirituality, emphasizing the importance of understanding the layers of meaning associated with sacred sites.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/608262
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/05/scaling-the-temple-mount/
Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/RHv0rHLtqXs
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Are we defined by our names or by the stories we tell? We explore Parashat Toldot, diving into the intricate relationships between the Philistines and ancient Israelites "up until today." Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz in a conversation that highlights the melting pot of cultures in ancient Israel. We reveal that the Philistines, like the Hittites and Hebrews, were newcomers to the land and for the most part contributed culturally and integrated well. When friction arose, they willingly separated and made agreements that showcased mutual recognition and trust. In a week that the 2024 cease fire between Israel and Lebanon is consummated and we in the US celebrate Thanksgiving we wonder what lessens from the past we can take to guide us in these challenging times.
Check out the Sefaria Source sheet here: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/606744
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/28/the-philistinians-and-the-israelites/
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cbPen_DRgmo
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz discussing the weekly Torah portion. What happens when ancient narratives of trauma echo through generations? This episode of "Madlik Disruptive Torah" delves into the parsha Chayei Sara, exploring the post-traumatic impact of the attempted sacrifice of Isaac. Through the lens of Jewish, Islamic and contemporary literature, we examine the emotional and familial fallout experienced by Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Isaac, and Ishmael. They pose intriguing questions: Did Abraham and Sarah live apart after the Akedah? Where did Isaac go after the attempted sacrifice by his father and how did he relate to his half-brother Ishmael and step-mother Hagar? How did Isaac's near-sacrifice shape his life? The discussion weaves historical context with contemporary reflections, drawing parallels to modern-day conflicts and shared traumas.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/605334
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/21/the-day-after/
View on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jf-oCqMqbco
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the intriguing theological debate where Abraham challenges God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. Unlike typical moral or ethical arguments, Abraham's stance is deeply rooted in his understanding of God's nature. He questions whether it would be Godlike to act in a manner that contradicts his perception of the divine. Profaning God's name is a major them in the Torah but in this first instance, it is God Himself who is accused of the crime. Come and learn!
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/603675
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/14/god-forbid/
Youtube video: https://youtu.be/RMPRRuil5lY
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz recorded in [location] on [date]. What does it mean to leave everything behind and embark on a journey of faith? This episode of "Madlik" delves into the Torah portion Lech Lecha, exploring Abraham's radical departure from his homeland and the birth of monotheism.
- Discover how Abraham's journey is not just a physical one but a profound internal quest for meaning and connection.
- Examine the midrashic interpretations that paint Abraham as a rebel, challenging the status quo and seeking a universal God.
- Consider the contemporary relevance of Abraham's story in a world where chaos and division often prevail.
Explore the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Abraham's journey... and ponder what it means for us today.
For more insights, see the Sefaria Source Sheet (link below) and access the episode transcript. Recorded live on Clubhouse, this discussion invites you to reflect on the enduring question: What do we find when we truly leave everything behind?
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/602012
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/07/radical-disruption-and-the-birth-of-faith/
Video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ud7D7ZWMnMI
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz in conversation regarding the weekly Torah portion. What happens when language becomes both a bridge and a barrier? In this episode of the "Madlik Disruptive Torah Podcast," the duo delves into Parashat Noah, exploring the Tower of Babel's tale and its implications on linguistic diversity. They unravel how the division of languages shaped rabbinic texts and Jewish tradition, posing questions about unity and communication. Discover how ancient narratives explain modern phenomena, and consider the power of translation in preserving and transforming sacred texts. Is the multiplicity of languages a divine gift or a source of chaos?
Explore the Sefaria source sheet www.sefaria.org/sheets/599916
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/10/31/words-without-borders/
Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KtJ-aPx1Kfc?si=zNV9Fdfj6lT_UCSA
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as they explore the creation myth. There are those who would have us believe that in Creation, God made unity from chaos and that the Torah’s end game is to find that unity, tikkun and nirvana once again. We explore an alternative, counterfactual approach, where God created through division and with a goal of creating a world where divisions are emphasized, managed but definitely not erased.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/598674
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/10/24/splitting-the-adam/
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At sunset the holiday of Sukkot begins and we leave the security of our homes and dwell in the temporary booths of farmers. In previous episodes we have focused on what makes this falling dwelling so permanent and eternal, but this year, in the shadow of Oct 7th we focus on the darker side of these exposed dwellings. We also explore the potential of the sukkah and the Jewish People to rise from the ashes like the Phoenix.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/597045
Transcripton episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/10/16/the-sukkah-will-rise-again/
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While I considered writing a sermon for this Yom Kippur I listened to the Madlik Sermon given a week before October 7th 2023. So much of what concerned me, even terrified me, came to fruition that I decided to re-broadcast. Maybe next week as we approach the anniversay of last year's dreadful Simchat Torah we can discuss further the concept of סֻכַּת הַנּוֹפֶלֶת; "the falling Sukkah" but for now, let's try to learn the lesson of Yom Kippur 1973 and 2023. Hatima Tova for all of us.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/513577
Episode web page: https://madlik.com/2023/09/26/the-yom-kippur-sermon-i-wanted-to-hear/
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Join Geoffrey Stern recorded live at the Conservative Synagogue of Westport, Connecticut with guest appearences of Madlik Faithful Henry Feuerstein, Martin Rosenfeld z'l, Martha Rosenfeld, Judy Shapiro and others.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/594972
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2016/10/01/whats-new-with-the-jewish-new-year/
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz recorded in front of a live audience. God, so to speak, “joining the Jewish People in Exile”, is a radical Rabbinic concept that in the words of Rabbi Akiva would have been blasphemous had it not been supported by Scripture. We explore the source of “God in Exile” (Shechinta B’Galuta - שְׁכִינְתָּא בְּגָלוּתָא) in Rabbinic texts and ponder its ramifications for modern-day Jewish Thought.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/592663
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/09/25/god-in-exile/
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Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz recorded in front of a live audience on Clubhouse. Moses warns the Israelites that if they do not live up to God’s expectations, they will be vilified as a caricature of evil. The world will use the Jew to personify failure and depravity. We discuss the use of the Jew as metaphor in our texts and literature.
Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/591169
Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/09/18/jew-as-metaphor/
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