How do the tears of our ancestors guide our prayers today?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbanit Shalhevet Cahana prepare for Rosh Hashanah through the lens of Parshat Netzavim and the holiday’s Torah readings. They explore the sound of the shofar as both coronation and weeping, and how the Torah highlights the tears of women—Sarah, Chana, and Rachel—as models of prayer. Against the backdrop of October 7 and its aftermath, they ask what it means to cry in a way that leads to resilience, protest, and hope.
This Rosh Hashana podcast is sponsored by Ricki and Dr. David I. Bernstein in memory of Ricki’s parents, Beatrice and Murray Kirschblat z”l, survivors of Auschwitz and Buchenwald, respectively. Beatrice and Murray were each the sole survivors of large families which perished in the Shoah.
--------
35:39
--------
35:39
Ki Tavo 5785: Gratitude and Hope
How can gratitude transform even the darkest moments into growth?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Tal Sessler explore Parshat Ki Tavo and its message of gratitude, resilience, and meaning. From the mitzvah of bringing first fruits to Isaiah’s words of consolation, they discuss how Torah helps us face trauma, despair, and anger with hope.
--------
37:18
--------
37:18
Ki Teitze 5785: War and Morality
Do our moral obligations change when we go to war?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy explore Parshat Ki Teitzei and its surprising focus on the ethics of war. From the command to remember Amalek to laws about captives, newlyweds, and the holiness of the military camp, they show how the Torah insists that moral and spiritual responsibilities do not disappear in times of conflict. Even in war, Jewish law demands restraint, humanity, and awareness of God’s presence.
This week’s episode is generously sponsored by Emily Simon, in honor of all Israelis who have endured so much since October 7, 2023. May the coming year bring peace and harmony to their lives.
--------
35:58
--------
35:58
Shoftim 5785: Justice and Responsibility
When tragedy strikes, what does true responsibility look like?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Sefi Kraut explore Parshat Shoftim and the strange ritual of the eglah arufah—the ceremony performed when a murder goes unsolved. They discuss how Torah refuses to let society shrug off responsibility, insisting that leaders confront tragedy publicly. Drawing on rabbinic debate, they explore two visions of communal accountability: law and order versus meeting basic human needs, raising timeless questions about how justice is pursued and society protects the vulnerable.
This week’s episode is generously sponsored by Emily Simon, in memory of her very dear friend, Carolyn Mandel, Chana Rafaela bat Avraham v’Sara, who gave so much to her adopted homeland.
--------
45:17
--------
45:17
Re'eh 5785: Seeing the Sacred
What does it mean to see each moment as either a blessing or a curse?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Yiscah Smith explore Parshat Re’eh and Moshe’s call to “see” the blessing and the curse. They discuss how Torah frames life as a series of choices, not only in mitzvot but in how we perceive each moment. Drawing on Hasidic and spiritual practice, Yiscah teaches that every action—whether shopping in the shuk or giving tzedakah—can become an invitation to connect with God, if we choose to see it that way.
Pardes from Jerusalem features a weekly discussion using Torah, Talmud and other Jewish texts to explain themes from the weekly Torah portion. The Pardes faculty is featured each week. For more information about all Pardes programs and events visit www.pardes.org.il.
Portugal