The Tisch with Rabbi Michael Knopf

The Identities of the Prophets

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Mar 2020 15:00:50 +0000

The Hebrew prophets inspired some of the most stirring, challenging, and influential books of the Bible. Their teachings left an indelible mark on both Judaism and Christianity. But do we really know them? The prophets are both familiar and misunderstood, ubiquitous and mysterious. Join Rabbi Michael Knopf (Temple Beth-El) and Reverend Hollie Woodruff (Seventh Street Christian Church – Disciples of Christ) for an interactive, interfaith exploration of the Hebrew prophets. We’ll study the history, identity, messages, and legacy of the prophets, discussing their impact on Judaism and Christianity, and their enduring relevance in our time.

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The Prophets: An Interfaith Exploration (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 15:00:01 +0000

The Hebrew prophets inspired some of the most stirring, challenging, and influential books of the Bible. Their teachings left an indelible mark on both Judaism and Christianity. But do we really know them? The prophets are both familiar and misunderstood, ubiquitous and mysterious. Join Rabbi Michael Knopf (Temple Beth-El) and Reverend Hollie Woodruff (Seventh Street Christian Church – Disciples of Christ) for an interactive, interfaith exploration of the Hebrew prophets. In this first session, “The World of the Prophets,” we study the history and context that gave rise to the biblical prophets.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

Exploring the Hebrew Prophets

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 15:00:35 +0000

In front of a live audience at one of the nation’s most historic Episcopal churches, Rabbi Knopf gives an introduction to the biblical Prophets, exploring their message, meaning, and enduring relevance.

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The Mahzor’s Questions

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Sep 2019 14:00:36 +0000

Many think of the prayerbook as a litany of statements and declarations. Yet the liturgy of the High Holy Days also poses questions. “When will You rule in Zion?” and “Where is the place of God’s presence?” are among the many questions we will ask — and that will be asked of us — during the High Holy Days. In this class, Rabbi Knopf reveals some of the Mahzor’s most powerful questions, facilitating a conversation that is sure to enrich your worship over the holidays.

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The Bite That Changed History (Session Thirteen): The Roles of the Humans…

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Jun 2019 14:00:38 +0000

Continuing their discussion of rabbinic interpretations of the Garden of Eden story in midrash Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf and his students discuss the man’s role in the story, and the reasons for the woman eating the fruit.

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The Bite That Changed History (Session Twelve): All About The Snake

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Jun 2019 14:00:54 +0000

Rabbi Knopf and his students continue their discussion of rabbinic interpretations of the Garden of Eden story in midrash Genesis Rabbah. This episode delves into the enigmatic character of the snake.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Book of Job and Judaism for Christians

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Sat, 08 Jun 2019 14:00:25 +0000

Rabbi Knopf discusses the Book of Job and Judaism with an audience of adult Christian students from St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church in Richmond, Virginia.

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The Bite That Changed History (Session Eleven): The Serpents Motivation

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Sat, 01 Jun 2019 14:00:33 +0000

As Rabbi Knopf continues his exploration of rabbinic interpretation of the Garden of Eden story, a discussion about sexual intimacy and the motivations of the story’s serpent.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session Ten): Parallels To Other Stories

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Sat, 25 May 2019 14:00:58 +0000

Rabbi Knopf continues his exploration of rabbinic legends on the Garden of Eden story, this time examining parallels between the Adam and Eve, Golden Calf, and Canaanite War stories.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session 9): The First Commandments

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Sat, 18 May 2019 14:00:07 +0000

Rabbi Knopf continues his study of Midrash Genesis Rabbah’s discussion of the Garden of Eden. In this episode, Rabbi Knopf and his students talk about the origins of humanity, and the first commandments God gives to human beings.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session 8): The Origins of Humanity

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Sat, 11 May 2019 14:00:21 +0000

Continuing his exploration of midrash Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf and his students discuss whether there are appropriate limits to human knowledge, free will vs. determinism, and the origins of humanity.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session Seven): The Tree of Knowledge

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 03 May 2019 11:00:49 +0000

Rabbi Knopf continues a conversation about Midrash Genesis Rabbah’s interpretation of the Garden of Eden story. This week, we discuss what kind of tree the Tree of Knowledge was, and why it matters.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session Six): The Tree of Life

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 26 Apr 2019 11:00:31 +0000

Rabbi Knopf continues his exploration of midrash Genesis Rabbah, exploring such questions as the size and function of the Tree of Life, the theological problem of evil, and the stubborn persistence of antisemitism.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session Five)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Apr 2019 11:00:47 +0000

Rabbi Knopf discusses the relationship between the first human being in the Garden of Eden and the Holy Ark in the Temple, the possibility of Adam and Eve’s sin being a moral crime, and the apostasy of disparaging other human beings.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session Four)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 11 Apr 2019 11:00:31 +0000

Rabbi Knopf discusses the meaning of God’s “placing” Adam in the Garden of Eden, diving into issues of predestination, human freedom, and humanity’s relationship with the rest of creation.

*Please note that while this is episode three of this series, the first two sessions were not recorded for podcast.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

The Bite That Changed History (Session Three)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 11:00:21 +0000

Rabbi Knopf discusses what was created first, human beings or the Garden of Eden, and in so doing discusses the nature of time and space, as well as free will and determinism.

*Please note that while this is episode three of this series, the first two sessions were not recorded for podcast.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

Essentials of Judaism: Medieval Jewish History Part 2

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 11:00:14 +0000

Join us for Part Two of Rabbi Knopf’s Essentials of Judaism: Midieval Jewish History Class. The Middle Ages were a formative and tumultuous period in Jewish history, characterized by violent confrontations, colorful characters, dynamic cultural formation, and timeless scholarlship. Rabbi Knopf offers a rich overview of this critical and complex era.

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Essentials of Judaism: Medieval Jewish History Part 1

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 11:00:05 +0000

Join us for Part One of Rabbi Knopf’s Essentials of Judaism: Midieval Jewish History Class. The Middle Ages were a formative and tumultuous period in Jewish history, characterized by violent confrontations, colorful characters, dynamic cultural formation, and timeless scholarlship. Rabbi Knopf offers a rich overview of this critical and complex era.

How do you listen to Tisch? You have a lot of options you know? iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS, it’s your choice!

Essentials of Judaism — God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 10 Jan 2019 12:00:05 +0000

Rabbi Knopf gives an introduction to the Jewish conception of God and theology.

2018 End Of Year Appeal

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 12:00:21 +0000

In this episode of The JCast Journey, host Darone Ruskay returns for his semi-annual request for support.

Have you been listening to JCast Network podcasts for days, weeks, months, years? Well as we say, podcasts are free to listen to, but not free to produce. Darone discusses some the cost of keeping the network afloat, and invites you, our listener to join in and help support our work. Donating is easy, just visit http://jcastnetwork.org/donate and show your support.

Where do you listen to JCast Network podcasts? You know that this show is available on iTunes, GooglePlay, Stitcher, and Spotify!

As you are thinking about your end of year tax-deductible donations, please consider donating to help support our network. Please donate at http://JCastNetwork.org/donate.

Monday Midrash: Ben Zoma Went Insane

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 11:00:35 +0000

Continuing his study of Chapter 2 of Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf unpacks a strange story involving the sage Ben Zoma.

Monday Midrash: Unformed and Void

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:00:50 +0000

Rabbi Knopf begins chapter two of Genesis Rabbah, discussing the state of the world at the beginning of creation, and what our past can predict about our future.

What’s Mine Is Yours

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 May 2018 11:00:55 +0000

In commemoration of completing his pre-Passover study of the Mishnah’s Tractate Avot, Rabbi Knopf teaches about the rabbinic conception of how piety is related to how one thinks of his or her property.

Monday Midrash: Common Word, Uncommon Use

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Apr 2018 11:00:50 +0000

Continuing his ongoing study of midrash Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf discuss a peculiar use in Genesis’ opening verse of the Torah’s most common word.

Monday Midrash: Humility, Perfect Construction, and the World to Come

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 11:00:27 +0000

Continuing his study of midrash Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf discusses topics ranging from blasphemy to God’s humility to the advent of the Messianic era.

Monday Midrash: Leadership Lessons from God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Mar 2018 11:00:05 +0000

Continuing his study of Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf explores how the creation story demonstrates God’s leadership skills, and what we might learn from God’s example.

Monday Midrash: Moses at Sinai

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:00:15 +0000

Continuing his exploration of Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf discusses the concept of a “Law Given to Moses at Mt. Sinai,” and the need for a Torah that is rooted in the past but perpetually innovative.

Monday Midrash: Starting With The Letter Bet

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 12:00:07 +0000

Continuing his study of Midrash Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf explores why the Torah begins with the letter “bet” rather than the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet, “aleph.”

Monday Midrash: The Building Blocks of the World

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Feb 2018 12:00:33 +0000

Continuing in his study of midrash Genesis Rabbah, Rabbi Knopf explores what building materials (if any) God used to create the world.

Monday Midrash: Good and Evil

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 Jan 2018 12:00:57 +0000

Heaven and hell, good and evil, the messiah. What did God create at the beginning of time that the Bible doesn’t explicitly mention? Join Rabbi Knopf as he explores the ancient midrash’s explanations.

Monday Midrash: Creation Without Arrogance

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Jan 2018 12:00:18 +0000

How do we talk about Creation without arrogance? Is any attempt to discuss the mysterious inherently presumptuous? Is it rebellious? What do we make of the Torah’s silence on the mechanics of Creation, and what may or may not have existed before God created the world? Join Rabbi Knopf as we explore these and other questions raised by Midrash Genesis Rabbah.

Monday Midrash: Creation… How and Why?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Dec 2017 12:00:58 +0000

What did God create before creating the world, and why did God create the world in the first place?

Monday Midrash: What God Created Before the World

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 12:00:56 +0000

According to the Midrash, God created some things, and determined to create yet more things, before creating the world. Join Rabbi Knopf to explore what those things things were, and why God started with them.

Monday Midrash: God and the Angels…

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 30 Nov 2017 12:00:50 +0000

When did God create angels? And, if God is one, how is there so much diversity within creation? Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his midrash students discuss these and other ancient rabbinic questions.

Monday Midrash: Big Questions…

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 23 Nov 2017 12:00:41 +0000

Why does the Torah begin with the creation of the world, and not with the first commandment? And is there such a thing as “intelligent design?” Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his midrash students discuss these and other ancient rabbinic questions.

Monday Midrash: Torah as Architect of the World

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 17 Nov 2017 12:00:30 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf on a journey through the collection of rabbinic commentary on the Bible known as Midrash Rabbah. This week, Rabbi Knopf continues to explore the first midrash of Genesis Rabbah, which discusses how God used the Torah to help create the world.

Monday Midrash: Session One

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 10 Nov 2017 12:00:18 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf on a journey through the collection of rabbinic commentary on the Bible known as Midrash Rabbah. In this session, we begin to explore the first midrash on Genesis.

Teaching in Honor of Reb Sholom Brodt (z”l)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Sep 2017 11:00:57 +0000

On the Shabbat immediately following the death of one of Rabbi Knopf’s rebbes, Rabbi Sholom Brodt, founder and Rosh Yeshiva of Yeshivat Simchat Shlomo in Jerusalem, Rabbi Knopf shares some singing and learning in his honor.

Let My People Go: Judaism and Mass Incarceration (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 May 2017 11:00:18 +0000

Part Two of a teaching where Rabbi Knopf explores the texts, traditions, and history that informs a Jewish view on the modern American plague of mass incarceration.

Let My People Go: Judaism and Mass Incarceration (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 May 2017 11:00:10 +0000

Part One of a teaching where Rabbi Knopf explores the texts, traditions, and history that informs a Jewish view on the modern American plague of mass incarceration.

Siyyum on Malachi

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 May 2017 11:00:15 +0000

Rabbi Knopf provides an overview about the meaning and message of the Book of Malachi.

My Father Was a Wandering Aramean: Judaism and Immigration (Part Three)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 11:00:00 +0000

As the debate over US immigration policy rages in Washington, and as congregations across the country debate becoming sanctuaries to protect undocumented immigrants, Rabbi Knopf explores the texts, traditions, and history that informs Judaism’s view on immigration. This is part three of a three part session given by Rabbi Knopf.

My Father Was a Wandering Aramean: Judaism and Immigration (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 11:00:27 +0000

My Father Was a Wandering Aramean: Judaism and Immigration (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 06 Apr 2017 11:00:14 +0000

Religious Vitality Today

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 Feb 2017 12:00:36 +0000

A live conversation between Rabbi Knopf and Dr. David Dwight at Richmond’s Tuckahoe Woman’s Club.

The religious landscape in America is undergoing radical change: While approximately 83% of Americans identify themselves as Christians, only 20% attend church regularly, and somewhere between 4,000 and 7,000 churches close their doors every year. Less than 1/3 of American Jews belong to a synagogue. Meanwhile, 44% of Americans will change their religion at least once in their lifetime, and a growing share of young Americans – including the fastest growing group of American Jews – say they have no religion at all. However, meaning-making continues to be a boom industry, with many Americans continuing to gravitate to sources of wisdom and venues of spirituality. Some houses of worship have even bucked the trends to flourish in the current climate. Two friends and colleagues – one rabbi and one minister – offer a dispatch from the front-lines of making religion vital in 21st Century America.

Healing From Hate

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 19 Aug 2016 11:00:56 +0000

Rabbi Knopf is joined by Rev. Ben Campbell, pastoral director of Richmond Hill and author of “Richmond’s Unhealed History“, for an interfaith examination of the true meaning and relevance of Tisha B’Av.

Following God’s Lure Through the Priestly Blessing (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 11:00:24 +0000

Part Two of Rabbi Knopf’s teaching for Tikkun Leil Shavuot (June 11, 2016), on the spiritual and moral message of one of Judaism’s oldest and most ubiquitous prayers, the Priestly Blessing.

Following God’s Lure Through the Priestly Blessing (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 11:00:51 +0000

Part One of Rabbi Knopf’s teaching for Tikkun Leil Shavuot (June 11, 2016), on the spiritual and moral message of one of Judaism’s oldest and most ubiquitous prayers, the Priestly Blessing.

Hasidic Havurah Session Eight

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 08 Jul 2016 11:00:26 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.” This month: if prayer is about pouring our hearts out to God, what do we do when we pray on Shabbat, where we don’t ask God for anything at all?

Who Is God? Rabbi Heschel and Rabbi Kaplan (Part 2)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 11:00:12 +0000

Part 3b of a 3 part series, in which Rabbi Knopf explores, analyzes, and debates various approaches to understanding God in modern Jewish thought. This session: Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, Conservative and Reconstructionist theologies.

Who Is God? Rabbi Heschel And Rabbi Kaplan (Part 1)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 24 Jun 2016 11:00:52 +0000

Part 3a of a 3 part series, in which Rabbi Knopf explores, analyzes, and debates various approaches to understanding God in modern Jewish thought. This session: Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan, Conservative and Reconstructionist theologies.

Who is God? Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik And Contemporary Orthodox Thelogy (Part 2)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 17 Jun 2016 11:00:26 +0000

Part 2b of a 3 part series, in which Rabbi Knopf explores, analyzes, and debates various approaches to understanding God in modern Jewish thought. This session: Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik and contemporary Orthodox theology.

Who is God? Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik And Contemporary Orthodox Theology (Part 1)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 10 Jun 2016 11:00:10 +0000

Part 2a of a 3 part series, in which Rabbi Knopf explores, analyzes, and debates various approaches to understanding God in modern Jewish thought. This session: Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik and contemporary Orthodox theology.

Matriarchs in the Amidah (Part 2)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 11:00:23 +0000

Rabbi Knopf explores the permissibility of including the biblical Matriarchs in the Amidah – a stimulating conversation about Jewish history, Biblical intertextuality, Halakhah and legal theory.

Matriarchs in the Amidah (Part 1)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 25 May 2016 11:00:28 +0000

Rabbi Knopf explores the permissibility of including the biblical Matriarchs in the Amidah – a stimulating conversation about Jewish history, Biblical intertextuality, Halakhah and legal theory.

No Pain, No Gain

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 May 2016 11:00:45 +0000

Rabbi Knopf shares the final mishnah from Tractate Avot, which teaches a Jewish version of the old cliche, “No Pain, No Gain.”

Who Is God? Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch and Modern Orthodox Theology (Part 2)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 11:00:06 +0000

The first half of Part 1 of a 3 part series, in which Rabbi Knopf explores, analyzes, and debates various approaches to understanding God in modern Jewish thought. This session: Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch and modern Orthodox theology.

Who Is God? Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch and Modern Orthodox Theology (Part 1)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Apr 2016 11:00:37 +0000

Hasidic Havurah Session Seven

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Apr 2016 11:00:59 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.” This month: if prayer is about connecting to God, what is the purpose of heaping all that effusive praise on God so characteristic of Jewish prayer?

Hasidic Havurah Session Six

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 Mar 2016 12:00:07 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.” This month: if prayer is about connecting to God, what is the purpose of petition, asking God for things we need?

How to Engage Jewish Millennials

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 Feb 2016 12:00:31 +0000

Millennials are more liberal, more global, more educated, more skeptical, and more media savvy them their parents or grandparents, and are less religious and less likely to join organizations. Rabbi Knopf, himself a Millennial, talks about Jewishly engaging this elusive population.

Hasidic Havurah Session 5

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Feb 2016 13:00:50 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.”

Hasidic Havurah Session 4

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Jan 2016 12:00:53 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.”

Star Wars and My Jewish Soul

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:00:09 +0000

Exploring the relationship between Star Wars and Jewish wisdom.

Hasidic Havurah Session 3

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 10 Dec 2015 12:00:56 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.”

Hasidic Havurah Session 2

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Nov 2015 12:00:43 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.”

Judaism And Climate Change

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Oct 2015 11:00:02 +0000

Global climate change is perhaps the most urgent moral challenge of our time. What wisdom does the Jewish tradition have to offer us about this issue? Rabbi Knopf explores a Jewish response to climate change: why it matters, and what we should do about it.

Hasidic Havurah Session One

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Oct 2015 11:00:24 +0000

Rabbi Knopf digs into the Slonimer Rebbe’s extraordinary essay on prayer, “Prayer is the Service of the Heart.”

Freedom and Repentance

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 17 Sep 2015 11:00:49 +0000

Rabbi Michael Knopf and Rabbi Dovid Asher of Richmond’s Orthodox congregation, Kenesseth Beth Israel, host a conversation on some essential High Holy Day themes.

Five Phenomenal Friendships: Ruth and Naomi

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 10 Sep 2015 11:00:26 +0000

In the final class of a series on Jewish relationship wisdom, Rabbi Knopf introduces us to one of the Bible’s most beautiful and intense friendships, Ruth and Naomi.

Essentials 2.0: Kashrut Laws & Applications (Part Three B)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 11:00:16 +0000

Ever wanted to learn more about why’s and how’s of the Jewish laws of cooking, eating, and kitchen supervision? Join Rabbi Knopf for part two of his third session, providing a deep dive into the world of Kashrut!

Do Jews Do Tattoo?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 Sep 2015 11:00:39 +0000

What does the Jewish tradition have to say about tattooing, and in particular the kind of body art prevalent in our day and age?

Essentials 2.0: Kashrut Laws & Applications (Part Three A)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Mon, 31 Aug 2015 11:00:20 +0000

Ever wanted to learn more about why’s and how’s of the Jewish laws of cooking, eating, and kitchen supervision? Join Rabbi Knopf for part one of his third session, providing a deep dive into the world of Kashrut!

Five Phenomenal Friendships: Rabbi Yohanan and Reish Lakish

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Aug 2015 11:00:09 +0000

In the third class of a series on Jewish relationship wisdom, Rabbi Knopf introduces us to a beautiful scholar and his best friend, a reformed bandit.

Five Phenomenal Friendships: Elisha ben Abuyah and Rabbi Meir

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Aug 2015 11:00:38 +0000

In the first class of a series on Jewish relationship wisdom, Rabbi Knopf introduces us to a heretic and his best friend, a rabbi.

Essentials 2.0: Kashrut Laws & Applications (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:00:16 +0000

Ever wanted to learn more about why’s and how’s of the Jewish laws of cooking, eating, and kitchen supervision? Join Rabbi Knopf for part two of the second session in his deep dive into the world of Kashrut!

Essentials 2.0: Kashrut Laws & Applications (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 Jun 2015 11:00:07 +0000

Ever wanted to learn more about why’s and how’s of the Jewish laws of cooking, eating, and kitchen supervision? Join Rabbi Knopf for part one of the second session in his deep dive into the world of Kashrut!

Love in the Time of Pluralism

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 29 May 2015 11:00:19 +0000

Rabbi Knopf’s teaching for Tikkun Leyl Shavuot, how the Jewish tradition enables us to make conversion easier, faster, and more accessible.

Essentials 2.0: Kashrut Laws & Applications (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 May 2015 11:00:34 +0000

Ever wanted to learn more about why’s and how’s of the Jewish laws of cooking, eating, and kitchen supervision? Join Rabbi Knopf for part two of this deep dive into the world of Kashrut!

Essentials 2.0: Kashrut Laws & Applications (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 May 2015 11:00:32 +0000

Ever wanted to learn more about why’s and how’s of the Jewish laws of cooking, eating, and kitchen supervision? Join Rabbi Knopf for part one of this deep dive into the world of Kashrut!

Religion In Our Relationships: What’s God Got To Do With It?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:00:35 +0000

In a special session with students from University of Richmond, Rabbi Knopf gets past the intermarriage debate into a deeper question of the role of religious values in finding a partner.

Israel: Dreaming of Deliverance (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 16 Apr 2015 11:00:43 +0000

In part two of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf talks about the history of Zionism, the modern State of Israel, and the connection between the Jewish people and the land of Israel.

Israel: Dreaming of Deliverance (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 Apr 2015 11:00:41 +0000

In part one of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf talks about the history of Zionism, the modern State of Israel, and the connection between the Jewish people and the land of Israel.

Passover University

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Fri, 03 Apr 2015 12:00:59 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf, Rabbi Gary Creditor, Hazzan Marian Turk, and Dr. Gary Goldberg as we explore several topics related to Pesah, providing an opportunity to brush up on what you know, or learn something new and interesting.

Talkin’ ‘Bout My Generation (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 02 Apr 2015 11:00:45 +0000

What does Judaism have to say about the major challenges we face in the 21st Century? Can Judaism’s answers capture the imagination of today’s younger generations? Join Rabbi Knopf for part two of this complex and prescient conversation.

Talkin’ ‘Bout My Generation (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 26 Mar 2015 11:00:35 +0000

Out of the Depths: Stories from the Holocaust

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Mar 2015 11:00:52 +0000

In his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf welcomes guest speaker, Holocaust Survivor Jay Ipson, to share personal reflections on the Shoah.

Raising a Mensch: From Birth to Bar/Bat Mitzvah (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Mar 2015 11:00:46 +0000

In part two of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf teaches about the beginning of the Jewish life cycle.

Raising a Mensch: From Birth to Bar/Bat Mitzvah (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Mar 2015 12:00:12 +0000

In part one of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf teaches about the beginning of the Jewish life cycle.

Kashrut: The Original Soul Food (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 12:00:02 +0000

In part two of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explains the why’s and how’s of keeping kosher.

Kashrut: The Original Soul Food (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Feb 2015 12:00:22 +0000

In part one of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explains the why’s and how’s of keeping kosher.

Starting Over: The High Holy Days (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Feb 2015 12:00:35 +0000

In part two of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explains the history and meaning of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, elucidating all the rituals.

Starting Over: The High Holy Days (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 29 Jan 2015 12:00:19 +0000

In part one of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explains the history and meaning of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, elucidating all the rituals.

Talmud – Argument for the Sake of Heaven (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Jan 2015 12:00:24 +0000

In part two of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explains the history of rabbinic Judaism and its greatest project, the Talmud.

Talmud – Argument for the Sake of Heaven (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Jan 2015 12:00:02 +0000

In part one of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explains the history of rabbinic Judaism and its greatest project, the Talmud.

Passover – The Jewish Master Story (Part 2)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 Jan 2015 12:00:42 +0000

In part two of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf illuminates the meaning and practices of the essential Jewish holiday of Passover.

Passover – The Jewish Master Story (Part 1)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 Dec 2014 12:00:26 +0000

In part one of his latest “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf illuminates the meaning and practices of the essential Jewish holiday of Passover.

Hanukkah for Grown-Ups

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 12:00:45 +0000

Rabbi Knopf explores the true meaning of Hanukkah, the version they never told you in Hebrew School!

A Heart of Many Rooms: Understanding Jewish Diversity

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 27 Nov 2014 12:00:05 +0000

In his third “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf demystifies Jewish ethnic and ideological diversity.

The World of the Bible (Part Two of Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Nov 2014 12:00:06 +0000

In part two of his second “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf teaches about the Tanakh, the Jewish Bible, including where it came from, what it contains, and how it is utilized in Jewish worship.

The World of the Bible (Part One of Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Nov 2014 12:00:37 +0000

In his second “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf teaches about the Tanakh, the Jewish Bible, including where it came from, what it contains, and how it is utilized in Jewish worship.

Beginnings: From Creation to the Edge of the Wilderness

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 06 Nov 2014 12:00:54 +0000

In his first “Essentials of Judaism” class, Rabbi Knopf explores the story of the Torah.

Keeping the Faith: The Evolving Role of the Rabbi in the 21st Century

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 30 Oct 2014 11:00:04 +0000

A panel in honor of Rabbi Knopf’s Installation as Rabbi of Temple Beth-El in Richmond VA, Rabbi Knopf is joined by Rabbis Gary Creditor, Neal Rose, and Abe Friedman in discussing the challenges and opportunities of the rabbinate and American Judaism in our time.

Ask The Rabbi

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 02 Oct 2014 11:00:20 +0000

Rabbi Knopf tackles questions from congregants on Torah honors, rising anti-Semitism, the difference between Conservative and Orthodox Judaism, and more!

Return Again

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 Sep 2014 11:00:39 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf in preparing your heart for Yom Kippur, the holiday that reveals who we really are, and invites us to return to our most fundamental reality.

What’s Your Calling

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Sep 2014 11:00:43 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf in a spiritual exploration of the meaning of the shofar, in order to prepare your heart for the High Holy Days.

What Do You Ask of God?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 Sep 2014 11:00:07 +0000

What are we doing when we pray? Why does prayer matter? Join Rabbi Knopf as he explores this question through a close study of Psalm 27, the Psalm for the Days of Awe.

What Does God Ask of You?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Aug 2014 11:00:16 +0000

What God wants from us is not always so clear. In Deuteronomy chapter 10, Moses tries to break it down. Join Rabbi Knopf as he unpacks this powerful text.

The Deuteronomy Diet

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Aug 2014 11:00:32 +0000

Rabbi Michael Knopf explains how lessons from the Torah and Jewish law can help us eat better and live longer, healthier lives.

“And the Bush Was Not Consumed:” Moses’ Mission as Our Mission

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Aug 2014 11:00:22 +0000

Moses is a complex man, an imperfect leader, and someone who stumbles into relationship with God. In this session with Rabbi Knopf, we study the story of Moses’ encounter with God at the Burning Bush, and unlock the lessons that experience has for our lives.

Climbing Jacob’s Ladder and Wrestling with God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 Aug 2014 11:00:43 +0000

The patriarch Jacob is one of the most relatable psychologically complex characters in the Bible. In this session with Rabbi Knopf, we study two dark nights of Jacob’s life, and unlock the lessons those experiences have for our lives.

“In the Beginning…” A Radical Reading of Genesis

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 31 Jul 2014 11:00:48 +0000

We Jews don’t usually study the opening chapter of Genesis in depth, but when we do, as in this session with Rabbi Knopf, we can find a text with significant moral demands and that is surprisingly harmonious with modern biology and physics.

Q & A with Rabbi Knopf

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 Jul 2014 11:00:48 +0000

Join the conversation, as Rabbi Knopf’s students ask him their most burning Jewish questions, ranging from Rabbi Knopf’s journey to the rabbinate to the future of the conservative movement and beyond.

All Of Judaism… What’s The Point? (Part II)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Jun 2014 11:00:41 +0000

“What’s the point of Judaism?” How many of us have asked this question? Turns out, Jews have been asking them for a long time. Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students study and discuss “Sefer Ha-Hinukh / The Book of Education.” Written anonymously in the mid-13th century, this radical book offers rationales for every commandment in the Torah.

This week: an open discussion about why Judaism matters, incorporating insights from Rabbi Elliot Dorff’s “For the Love of God and People“.

All Of Judaism… What’s The Point? (Part I)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 11:00:00 +0000

This week: an open discussion about why Judaism matters.

Taboo Judaism: What We Can Learn From Judaism’s Greatest Heretic

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Jun 2014 11:00:58 +0000

The erstwhile Sage Elisha ben Abuyah rejected Judaism and was shunned by his fellow rabbis. They refused even to acknowledge his name, calling him “The Other” instead. What might this ancient heretic have to teach us today?

Join Rabbi Knopf to study Elisha’s saga in the Babylonian Talmud, which yields timeless and crucial lessons about failure, friendship, and forgiveness.

Taboo Judaism: Almighty? No Way! Loving The God You Actually Believe In

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 29 May 2014 11:00:12 +0000

For centuries, we have been taught that God is unchanging, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, and simultaneously good. That God turns out to be philosophically impossible and distinctly un-Jewish, at least from the Bible’s and Rabbis’ points of view. But there is no need to despair, because most of us don’t really believe in that God, anyway, though we think we are supposed to.

Join Rabbi Knopf to explore a different way of understanding God called Process Theology, and rekindle your relationship with the God you already know and love.

Taboo Judaism: The Rabbi Jesus and Kosher Christianity

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 May 2014 11:00:44 +0000

Most nice Jewish boys and girls are told that anything Christian is treif, and that we shouldn’t have anything to do with Jesus. But in actuality, there is a lot that is Jewish about Jesus and Christianity, and a lot that Jews can learn from our sister faith.

Join Rabbi Knopf to explore what is “kosher” about Jesus and Christianity!

Taboo Judaism: It’s the End of the World as We Know It– What We Can Learn from the Banned Books of the Bible

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 May 2014 11:00:53 +0000

“It’s the End of the World as We Know It: What Banned Books of the Bible teach about the Apocalypse, Heaven, and Hell. Most nice Jewish boys and girls are told that we don’t believe in things like hell and the apocalypse. Turns out, we do. Kind of.

Join Rabbi Knopf and explore what was left out of the Bible, why, and how it remains part of Judaism.

Not Oppressing Others With Words… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 08 May 2014 11:00:45 +0000

This week: why does the Torah forbid us from oppressing others with words, and what does that even mean?

Payos and Beards… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 May 2014 11:00:21 +0000

This week: why does the Torah forbid us from cutting the corners of our hairline, and from shaving off our beards?

Not Mixing Species… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 24 Apr 2014 11:00:04 +0000

This week: why does the Torah forbid us from mixing species of animals, plants, and even clothing fibers?

Matzah on Passover… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 Apr 2014 11:00:20 +0000

This week: why does the Torah command us to eat Matzah on Passover? What’s the point of Unleavened Bread?

Pilgrimage To Jerusalem… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 11:00:35 +0000

This week: why does the Torah command us to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem three times a year on the Jewish holidays?

The Sh’mitah (Sabbatical) Year… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Mar 2014 11:00:50 +0000

This week: why does the Torah commands us to let the land rest and forgive our loans every seventh year? What’s the point of Sh’mitah?

Majority Rule… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:00:55 +0000

This week: why does the Torah commands us to follow the majority in matters of Jewish law? What’s the point of majority rule?

Not Eating Treif… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 27 Feb 2014 12:00:59 +0000

This week: why does the Torah prohibit us from eating treif, meat taken from a mortally wounded animal, or meat taken from a live animal?

Not Cursing God… What’s the Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Feb 2014 12:00:45 +0000

This week: why does the Torah prohibit us from cursing God, along with human judges and leaders?

Defending Immigrants, Widows, And Orphans… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Feb 2014 12:00:30 +0000

This week: why does the Torah prohibit us from abusing immigrants, widows, and orphans? What’s the point of defending immigrants, widows, and orphans?

The Death Penalty… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 30 Jan 2014 12:00:37 +0000

This week, a very challenging topic: why does the Torah command that murderers be executed? What’s the point of the death penalty, and is the point relevant in our time?

The Laws Of Owning Slaves… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 23 Jan 2014 12:00:34 +0000

This week, a very challenging topic: why are we allowed, according to the Torah, to own slaves?

Honoring Parents… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 16 Jan 2014 12:00:35 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to honor our parents?

Observing Shabbat… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:00:03 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to refrain from labor on Shabbat? What’s the point of observing the Sabbath?

Making Kiddush… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 02 Jan 2014 12:00:46 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to make “Kiddush” on Shabbat? What’s the point of remembering the Sabbath day and sanctifying it?

Not Taking God’s Name In Vain… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 26 Dec 2013 12:00:48 +0000

This week – why are we commanded not to take God’s name in vain? What’s the point of not swearing falsely by God’s name?

Not Worshipping Idols… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Dec 2013 12:00:26 +0000

This week – why are we commanded not to make or worship idols? What’s the point of not practicing idolatry?

“A Babylonian, a Greek, and a Roman Walked into Jerusalem…”: A Journey through Ancient Jewish History (Part Four)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Dec 2013 12:00:34 +0000

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf for a no-holds-barred romp through a thousand years of Jewish history (roughly 900 BCE – 200 CE), from the Bible to the Mishnah.

This series investigates the life and times of our ancient kings, prophets, priests, and rabbis; revolutions, wars, exiles, and occupations. Be prepared to learn what they never dared teach you in Hebrew School, and to have some “sacred cows” smashed to pieces!

“A Babylonian, a Greek, and a Roman Walked into Jerusalem…”: A Journey through Ancient Jewish History (Part Three)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Dec 2013 12:00:29 +0000

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf for a no-holds-barred romp through a thousand years of Jewish history (roughly 900 BCE – 200 CE), from the Bible to the Mishnah.

“A Babylonian, a Greek, and a Roman Walked into Jerusalem…”: A Journey through Ancient Jewish History (Part Two)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Nov 2013 12:00:40 +0000

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf for a no-holds-barred romp through a thousand years of Jewish history (roughly 900 BCE – 200 CE), from the Bible to the Mishnah.

“A Babylonian, a Greek, and a Roman Walked into Jerusalem…”: A Journey through Ancient Jewish History (Part One)

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:00:07 +0000

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf for a no-holds-barred romp through a thousand years of Jewish history (roughly 900 BCE – 200 CE), from the Bible to the Mishnah.

Talking To Your Children About Death

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Nov 2013 12:00:26 +0000

One of the great anxieties many of us parents have is how we talk to our kids about illness, suffering, dying, death, and the afterlife. Yet it’s a conversation that all of us will have with our kids at some point. How do we talk about these issues in ways that will help us raise thoughtful, healthy, and resilient kids?

Join Rabbi Knopf for this special conversation about how to talk to our kids about death.

Believing In The God Of Israel Alone… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 11:00:31 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to believe in one particular God, and no other? What’s the point of believing in the Jewish God?

Believing In God… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:00:55 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to believe in God? What’s the point of faith?

Kidush Ha-Hodesh/Declaring the Months… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 24 Oct 2013 11:00:50 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to establish each new Jewish month and leap years? What’s the point of the Jewish calendar?

Gid Ha-Nasheh/Prohibition On Eating The Sciatic Nerve… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:00:14 +0000

This week – why are we prohibited from eating the Sciatic Nerve of an animal’s hindquarters? What’s the point of Gid Hanasheh?

Brit Milah/Circumcision of Baby Boys… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:00:30 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to circumcise Jewish baby boys? What’s the point of Brit Milah?

How to Talk to Kids About God: A Special Episode of The Tisch

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 09 Oct 2013 11:00:56 +0000

Our kids are natural theologians, and ask us great questions about God. Yet many of us feel uncomfortable answering. Join Rabbi Knopf for this special conversation about how to talk to our kids about God.

Being Fruitful and Multiplying… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 Oct 2013 11:00:49 +0000

This week – why are we commanded in the Book of Genesis to “be fruitful and multiply”?

Sukkot… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:00:17 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to build a Sukkah (and in such a particular way) and use a Lulav and Etrog? What’s the point of Sukkot?

Yom Kuppur… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Sep 2013 11:00:18 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to observe a day of atonement? What’s the point of Yom Kippur?

Blowing the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 29 Aug 2013 11:00:50 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to blow the Shofar on Rosh Hashanah?

Reciting Blessings Over Food… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Aug 2013 11:00:43 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to recite blessings before and after we eat anything?

Wearing the T’fillin of the Head… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 11:00:36 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to wear black leather boxes, containing scrolls of sacred text, on our foreheads every morning? What’s the point of T’fillin?

Wearing the T’fillin of the Arm… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 Jul 2013 11:00:33 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to wrap black leather boxes, containing scrolls of sacred text, around our arms with black leather straps every morning? What’s the point of T’fillin?

Reciting the Sh’ma… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Jul 2013 11:00:41 +0000

This week – why are we commanded to recite the Sh’ma twice daily? What makes this prayer so important?

Believing In One God…What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 11 Jul 2013 11:00:51 +0000

“What’s the point of Judaism?” How many of us have asked this question? Turns out, Jews have been asking them for a long time. Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students study and discuss “Sefer Ha-Hinukh/The Book of Education.” Written anonymously in the mid-13th century, this radical book offers rationales for every commandment in the Torah.

This week – why are we commanded to believe in one God? What difference does it make whether there is one God, or two, or a thousand?

The Red Heifer… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Jun 2013 11:00:44 +0000

This week – what’s the deal with The Red Heifer, the mysterious ritual in which the ashes of a burnt red cow were used to purify one who has touched a corpse?

Tithing… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:00:48 +0000

“What’s the point of Judaism?” How many of us have asked this question? Turns out, Jews have been asking them for a long time. Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students study and discuss “Sefer Ha-Hinukh/The Book of Education.” Written anonymously in the mid-13th century, this radical book offers rationales for every commandment in the Torah.

This week – what’s the deal with ma’aser, the command to give one-tenth of our crops to the Levites, the clan who officiated in the ancient Temple, a command that is still operative today in Israel?

Tzitzit… What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 30 May 2013 11:00:13 +0000

This week – what’s the deal with tzitzit, the command to attach fringes on the corners of our garments?

The Ritual Of The First Fruits…What’s The Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 May 2013 11:00:25 +0000

This week – what’s the deal with the The Ritual of the First Fruits, giving the first yield of our land as a gift to the Temple on the Shavuot holiday?

The Jubilee Year… What’s the Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 02 May 2013 11:00:28 +0000

This week – what’s the deal with the Jubilee Year?

Counting The Omer… What’s the Point?

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:00:04 +0000

This week – what’s the deal with counting the Omer?

Service Of The Heart: Episode Seventy Seven

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:00:26 +0000

“What’s the point of Judaism? Does God really care if I eat this cheeseburger?” How many of us have asked these questions? Turns out, Jews have been asking them for a long time. Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students study and discuss “Sefer Ha-Hinukh / The Book of Education.” Written anonymously in the mid-13th century, this radical book offers rationales for every commandment in the Torah. We’ll take them one by one, pick them apart, and see if they work.

This week – why did God give us the Torah in the first place?

Service Of The Heart: Episode Seventy Six

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 11:00:39 +0000

We’ll take them one by one, pick them apart, and see if they work.

Service Of The Heart Episode Seventy Five

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:00:54 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he presents the exciting new publication, “Slavery, Freedom, and Everything Between,” edited by Rabbi Menachem Creditor and Rabbi Aaron Alexander. This collection explores the themes and lessons of Passover. Rabbi Knopf reads from and discusses the book and presents his own essay, “On Redemption.”

You can order your copy here. All proceeds from the sale of this book support the sacred work of MAZON: A Jewish Response To Hunger.

Service Of The Heart Episode Seventy Four

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:00:45 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he answers his students most pressing Jewish questions about Passover, Kashrut, and Jewish life!

Service Of The Heart Episode Seventy Three

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 16:00:48 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss “The Doctrine of Religious Solipsism,” in which Heschel claims that we suffer from too much egocentricity, and that the goal of prayer is self-surrender. Can prayer save us from our narcissistic culture?

Service Of The Heart Episode Seventy Two

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 16:00:34 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss “The Doctrine of Prayer as a Social Act,” in which Heschel argues that prayer is more than an opportunity for Jews to come together and form community, and synagogues must strive to be more than social centers. What do you think?

Service Of The Heart Episode Seventy One

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 16:00:04 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss “The Doctrine of Religious Behaviorism,” in which Heschel claims that, in the modern American synagogue, we serve tradition rather than God, emphasizing behavior rather than meaning. What do you think?

Service Of The Heart Episode Seventy

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 16:00:23 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss “The Doctrine of Agnosticism,” in which Heschel claims we have divorced God from prayer and banished prayer from the synagogue. As a result, the soul of the synagogue has withered, causing death from the inside out. Do you agree? Is God missing from the synagogue? If we bring God back, will the people come back?

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty Nine

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 16:00:56 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss “Spiritual Absenteeism,” in which Heschel challenges the modern American synagogue, and the worshippers therein, to bring more spirit, soulfulness, and emotion into congregational prayer. How can our places of worship become more spiritually alive?

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty Eight

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 16:00:44 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss “Praying by Proxy,” and wonder: “Has the temple become the graveyard where prayer is buried?” Does synagogue prayer move you? Should it? How can our places of worship become more spiritually alive?

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty Seven

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 17 Jan 2013 21:00:00 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss the “Separation of Church and God,” and wonder whether we can or should bring God back to shul.

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty Six

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 16:00:52 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss the purpose of the ancient sacrificial system, and the way in which prayer is meant to be a substitute for sacrifice.

Service Of The Heart: Episode Sixty Five

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 27 Dec 2012 16:00:33 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the meaning and purpose of prayer.

This week, we continue discussing a recent essay by Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson about conceptualizing prayer in a way that makes sense with our beliefs about God. You can read the essay here, and join the conversation.

Service Of The Heart: Episode Sixty Four

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 20 Dec 2012 16:00:43 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the meaning and purpose of prayer.

This week, we discuss a recent essay by Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson about conceptualizing prayer in a way that makes sense with our beliefs about God. You can read the essay here, and join the conversation.

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty Three

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:00:32 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the meaning and purpose of prayer.

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty Two

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 06 Dec 2012 16:00:44 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, ”Man’s Quest for God.”

his week, we discuss whether it matters if you understand and/or know how to recite the formal Hebrew prayers of the prayerbook. What do you think?

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty One

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 16:00:59 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, ”Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss whether prayer is supposed to be about us talking to God, or us allowing God to talk to us. What do you think?

Service Of The Heart Episode Sixty

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 16:00:36 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, ”Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss whether prayer is a dialogue with God, a monologue, or something else entirely. What do you think?

Service Of The Heart Episode Fifty Nine

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 16:00:09 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss the preparation and training necessary for cultivating a successful prayer life: Do I really need to know Hebrew and choreography to succeed at Jewish prayer?

Service Of The Heart Episode Fifty Eight

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 16:00:19 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, ”Man’s Quest for God.”

This week, we discuss the relationship between prayer and spirituality: What does it mean to have a spiritual life, and how can prayer help?

Service Of The Heart Episode Fifty Seven

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.” This week, the discussion centers on the way our approach to life impacts our approach to prayer.

Prayer – Ritual Obligation vs. Emotional Expression

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Oct 2012 15:00:36 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel’s monumental collection of essays on Jewish prayer, “Man’s Quest for God.” This week, the discussion centers on whether one should pray in a perfunctory way solely to fulfill one’s ritual obligations, or whether it is better to not pray at all.

Service Of The Heart Episode Fifty Five

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 15:00:30 +0000

Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson teaches that the point of prayer is in what we take away from it, and how it changes us. Since we spend so much time praying over the High Holy Days, it is worth asking: what will you take away from this season? How did it change you?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss these important questions.

Episode Fifty Four: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 15:01:04 +0000

Is your prayer too selfish? Should you interrupt other peoples’ selfish prayer habits? What would it mean to pray for a warmer world? And what can Sukkot teach us about prayer?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss Rabbi Shlomo Carlebach’s response to these important questions.

Episode Fifty Three: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 15:00:19 +0000

All quiet on the synagogue front? Should shul be more noisy? Does more volume in services add to the prayer experience? Is decorum getting in the way of our connecting to God?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss JTS Chancellor Arnold Eisen’s response to these important questions.

Episode Fifty Two: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 14:00:27 +0000

Do you think God prays? If so, what would God pray for? And what does God’s prayer have to say about God, and about us?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the Netivot Shalom’s approach to Jewish prayer.

Episode Fifty One: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 14:00:15 +0000

What is prayer? Just as, when viewing an impressionist painting, we must look at it from afar to see the whole picture, prayer is an opportunity to gain perspective and insight about our lives. In so doing, we can better confront our challenges.

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the Netivot Shalom’s approach to Jewish prayer.

Episode Fifty: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 14:00:06 +0000

What may we pray for? What do you pray for? How do you know if God answers your prayers, and how do you know what prayers God answers?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Nine: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 02 Aug 2012 14:01:10 +0000

Is prayer a waste of time? Should we be spending the time we set aside for prayer pursuing other, more useful, Jewish activities? What does prayer give us – and the world – that performing acts of lovingkindness does not?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Eight: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 14:00:48 +0000

According to the Netivot Shalom, the purpose of prayer is to refine us, to help us transform our negative virtues into positive ones.

Join Rabbi Knopf as he and his students discuss this approach to Jewish prayer.

Episode Forty Seven: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 14:00:19 +0000

Why do we praise God so much in Jewish prayer? What does our praise possibly do for God, who is beyond praise?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he teaches the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Six: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 14:00:55 +0000

What does “successful” prayer look and feel like? Are the prayerbook, the physical layout of our synagogues, and our sense of self-consciousness helping or hurting our ability to be successful in prayer?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he teaches the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Five: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Jul 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Join Rabbi Knopf as he teaches the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Four: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 14:00:30 +0000

What would it be like to “call God for no reason?” What would you say if you spoke to God like you would a lover, a trusted friend, or confidant? Does praying with a community help or hinder your ability to pour your heart out to God?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he teaches the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Three: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 14:00:06 +0000

When you pray, do you mean what you say? Does it matter? What kind of intention are we supposed to have when we pray?

Join Rabbi Knopf as he teaches the Netivot Shalom’s approach to these questions.

Episode Forty Two: Service Of The Heart

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 14:00:39 +0000

The Talmud teaches that prayer is the “service of the heart.” Yet for many Jews, that description could not be further from our experience with Jewish prayer.

Join Rabbi Knopf as he teaches the Netivot Shalom on the profound challenges and extraordinary possibilities of prayer.

Episode Forty One: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 31 May 2012 14:00:39 +0000

By combining thought with intention and deed, we can constantly experience God’s presence in our lives. Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these ideas in the 10th and final chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

After listening, feel free to make a siyyum (a celebration for completing a holy book) and a little l’chayim, too!

Episode Forty: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:00:18 +0000

We can experience God’s presence in our lives constantly, but only if we work at it. Through prayer, study, and deed, we can forge a continuous connection to the Divine.

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these ideas in the 9th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Thirty Nine: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 17 May 2012 14:00:36 +0000

Revering God is about recognizing that we are not alone, avoiding actions that would hurt God or drive God’s presence from the world, and respecting our relationship with the Holy One.

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these ideas in the 9th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Thirty Eight: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 03 May 2012 14:00:10 +0000

Refusing to be defined by your possessions, not becoming too attached to material things, and cultivating an attitude of gratitude are ways you can live a more godly life.

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these ideas in the 9th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Thirty Seven: How to Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 14:02:21 +0000

Making sex sacred helps us embody God’s virtue of Yesod, or Foundation. Treating sexuality as a manifestation of our holiness helps us bring godliness into the world.

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these ideas in the 8th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Thirty Six: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 14:00:35 +0000

Learning from many teachers and many sources helps us embody God’s eternity and God’s majesty, and helps us bring godliness into the world.

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these ideas in the 8th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Thirty Five: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 14:00:06 +0000

Sustaining Jewish learning is one of the ways we can embody God’s eternity. Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores this idea in the 8th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these questions from teh Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Thirty Four: Preparing for Pesach

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 14:00:43 +0000

In a special Passover-related mini-series, Rabbi Knopf reminds us that Passover is an opportunity for spiritual renewal and rebirth. To be reborn, we must free ourselves ties us to past negative behaviors. When we do this, we open ourselves up to a life of godliness and love.

Episode Thirty Three: Preparing for Pesach

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 14:00:45 +0000

In a special Passover-related mini-series, Rabbi Knopf guides us through the Slonimer Rebbe’s unique approach to the prohibition of hametz (leavened food items) on Passover. It turns out that, not only are you what you eat, but what you eat can have a powerful effect on you. Can food influence a person for good or ill? Is matzah the antidote? Listen and find out!

Episode Thirty Two: Preparing For Pesach

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 14:00:56 +0000

Episode Thirty One: Preparing for Pesach

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 14:00:30 +0000

The Jewish tradition teaches that, 30 days before Passover, one should begin studying topics relating to the holiday. In a special Passover-related mini-series, Rabbi Knopf will be guiding us through the Slonimer Rebbe’s unique approach to the prohibition of hametz (leavened food items) on Passover. Why is the Jewish tradition so much more strict on Passover than other holidays?

Episode Twenty-Nine: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:00:56 +0000

How does one avoid learning turning into snobbery and contempt? Sometimes, learned people use their education to elevate themselves above others, especially those they perceive as poor and lowly. Can one degrade others and still be considered a Torah scholar?

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these questions in the 7th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Twenty-Eight: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:00:46 +0000

What role should ego play in learning and teaching? Is it ever appropriate to use Torah as a means for elevating oneself above others? Can one degrade others in the service of learning or teaching Torah?

Join Rabbi Michael Knopf as he explores these questions in the 7th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Twenty-Seven: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:00:25 +0000

Can you take your capacity for bad and use it for good? What counts as “bad” and what counts as “good?” And how do you direct even your negative qualities toward positivity? Join Rabbi Knopf as he explores these questions in the 6th chapter of the Tomer Devorah by Rabbi Moses Cordovero.

Episode Twenty-Six: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 15:00:48 +0000

In Episode Twenty-Six of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Twenty-Five: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:00:50 +0000

In Episode Twenty-Five of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore chapter five of Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Twenty-Four: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:00:57 +0000

In Episode Twenty-Four of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore chapter five of Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Twenty-Three: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 18:18:01 +0000

In Episode Twenty-Three of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Twenty-Two: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:00:31 +0000

In Episode Twenty-Two of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore Chapter Three of Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah. This is the first episode of The Tisch that is a part of JCast Network, however all previous episodes are available for download here or on iTunes.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Twenty-One: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 15:00:09 +0000

In Episode Twenty-One of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore Chapter Three of Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah. This is the first episode of The Tisch that is a part of JCast Network, however all previous episodes are available for download here or on iTunes.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Twenty: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:00:56 +0000

In Episode Twenty of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf continues to explore Chapter Three of Moses Cordovero’s Tomer Devorah. This is the first episode of The Tisch that is a part of JCast Network, however all previous episodes are available for download here or on iTunes.

Each week Rabbi Knopf meets with his dedicated students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA, where he serves as Assistant Rabbi, for this wonderful learning experience.

Episode Nineteen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:41:00 +0000

In Episode Nineteen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Cultivating Divine wisdom: The Importance of Learning and Teaching.

Episode Eighteen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:40:00 +0000

In Episode Eighteen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

As we close chapter two of the Tomer Devorah, we learn how to see every person as a dignified manifestation of his/her Creator, and how to focus on the good in everyone…With a little help from a bagel analogy.

Episode Seventeen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:36:00 +0000

In Episode Seventeen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

This weeks theme: “Humility in Three Easy Steps”

Episode Sixteen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 20:00:00 +0000

In Episode Sixteen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

According to Rabbi Moses Cordovero, God looks for the goodness in all of us, even (and especially) when we appear not to demonstrate it. God focuses on the good we do, and not on what we do wrong. So too, we must be careful not to focus on the flaws of others. Rather, we ought to look past others’ shortcomings, and think of them in light of their positive qualities and their kind deeds.

Episode Fifteen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 19:00:00 +0000

In Episode Fifteen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Fourteen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 19:00:00 +0000

In Episode Fourteen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Thirteen: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 19:00:00 +0000

In Episode Thirteen of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Twelve: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 18:59:00 +0000

In Episode Twelve of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Eleven: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:58:00 +0000

In Episode Eleven of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Ten: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 18:56:00 +0000

In Episode ten of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Nine: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 18:53:00 +0000

In Episode nine of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Eight: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 18:46:00 +0000

In Episode Eight of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Seven: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 01:25:00 +0000

In Episode Seven of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Episode Six: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Sat, 27 Aug 2011 01:24:00 +0000

In Episode Six of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

According to Rabbi Moses Cordovero, God does not let God’s anger dictate God’s actions. So too, we must be careful not to be so overcome with anger that our anger forces our reactions. Rather, we ought to work to let go of our anger, emptying it from our heart, and transforming it into resilient and persuasive love.

Episode Five: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 01:23:00 +0000

In Episode Five of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Rabbi Knopf is in the midst of studying Rabbi Moses Cordovero and his concept of forgiveness in preparation for the High Holidays.

Episode Four: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 01:21:00 +0000

In Episode Four of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Rabbi Knopf is in the midst of studying Rabbi Moses Cordovero and his concept of forgiveness in preparation for the High Holidays.

Episode Three: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 01:19:00 +0000

In Episode Three of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Rabbi Knopf continues the study of Rabbi Moses Cordovero and his concept of forgiveness in preparation for the High Holidays.

Episode Two: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 01:17:00 +0000

In Episode Two of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf and his students at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA continue their studies.

Rabbi Knopf and his students are in the midst of studying Rabbi Moses Cordovero and his concept of forgiveness in preparation for the High Holidays.

Episode One: How To Emulate God

druskay@jcastnetwork.org (JCast Network) — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 01:16:00 +0000

In Episode One of The Tisch Rabbi Michael Rose Knopf invites us to join him in his weekly tisch at Har Zion Temple in Penn Valley, PA.

Rabbi Knopf is in the midst of studying Rabbi Moses Cordovero and his concept of forgiveness in preparation for the High Holidays.