Madlik Podcast – Disruptive Torah Thoughts on Judaism

Madlik – Disruptive Torah thoughts from a post-orthodox Jew with a life-long love and appreciation of Jewish texts and a fresh and sometimes heterodox perspective on their meaning, intent and practical (halachic) implications.

Kosher Laws and Identity 04/24/2025

Kosher Laws and Identity Passover, which we recently celebrated, bans bread. Leviticus bans pigs. Ashkenazim banned rice, but Mizrachim and the rabbis of the Talmud did not. What do these bans and dietary practices actually say about us? For 2,000 years the Jewish people have been doing something that nowadays is indispensable... reading food labels. It's required nowadays to list whether a food contains lactose or gluten. Was this made in a factory where they also process peanuts? Is it organic and sustainable? But the ancient Israelites and modern-day Jews have been understanding the importance of diet for a long, long time. This week on Madlik we delve into the fascinating world of Jewish dietary laws and their profound impact on Jewish identity. In this episode, we explore how ancient legal discussions about food continue to shape modern Jewish society, challenging our assumptions about the purpose and relevance of these laws today. The Torah introduces dietary restrictions in Leviticus, using language that goes beyond simple dietary prohibitions: • The text uses terms like "tameh" (impure) and "sheketz" (detestable), not unkosher, to describe forbidden foods. • These laws are presented as a means of separating the Israelites from other nations and elevating their lifestyle. The recent Passover holiday brought to light a common question among Ashkenazi Jews: Why can't we eat rice, corn, or hummus during this time? This seemingly simple inquiry opens up a complex discussion about the nature of Jewish dietary laws, their origins, and their role in shaping Jewish identity throughout history. The exploration of kosher laws and the kitniyot debate reveals that Jewish dietary practices are about much more than just food. They serve as a powerful tool for shaping identity, fostering community, and navigating the complexities of tradition in a modern world. These discussions challenge us to reconsider our assumptions about the purpose and relevance of dietary laws in Jewish life. They invite us to reflect on how our food choices can connect us to our heritage, distinguish us from others, and potentially unite us as a people. As we continue to grapple with these ancient laws in our modern context, we're reminded that the way we eat is intimately connected to who we are and who we aspire to be as a community. Key Takeaways Dietary restrictions in Leviticus use language that goes beyond simple dietary prohibitions Passover illustrates how dietary practices can evolve and differ among Jewish communities It is a continuing challenge to maintain distinct customs while fostering unity Timestamps [00:00] Why Rice Is Forbidden: A Modern Question with Ancient Roots [02:19] Snack Shaming in Israel: Identity in a Bag of Chips [04:21] Impure or Just Unkosher? Leviticus' Language Decoded [09:06] Detestable vs. Impure: What Fish Teach About Bias [13:33] Dietary Laws as a Reflection of Egypt and Elevation [17:45] The Kitniyot Debate: What Really Happened [20:58] Slippery Slopes: From Rice to Mustard Seeds [24:55] The Legal and Cultural Pull of Tradition [27:48] The Economic Pain Behind Prohibitions [29:39] Uniting the People Through What’s on the Plate Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter Safaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/641409 Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/04/23/kosher-laws-and-identity/ /episode/index/show/madlik/id/36289375

Freedom Haggadah: Tradition Meets Social Justice 04/10/2025

Freedom Haggadah: Tradition Meets Social Justice Whether you’re a radical Progressive or Traditionalist, are you ready to be Free? Join Jews and Gentiles, blacks and whites, progressives and traditionalists and return to April 4th 1969 (MLK's first Yartzeit) at Arthur Waskow's radical and controversial Freedom Seder. I recently picked up a first edition of this Mao-sized red booklet, and it's far more nuanced than I expected. Radical progressives will be surprised by its Jewish particularism and its defense of taking up arms to defend one’s people. Traditionalists will be struck by how rooted it is in Rabbinic tradition and delighted by the meaningful rituals it re-introduces. We explore how Waskow, a typical 60’s social activist who only later became a rabbi, created an "activist Midrash" that balances Jewish particularity with universal themes. Key Takeaways Universality meets particularity: Waskow's Haggadah balances universal themes with deeply Jewish elements, challenging both progressives and traditionalists Ritual innovations: The Freedom Seder introduces thought-provoking additions to the traditional Seder, including a moment of silent meditation before candle lighting. Nuanced perspectives: Waskow doesn't shy away from addressing difficult topics, including Jewish shortcomings and the complexities of liberation. Timestamps [00:00:05] — Introduction: Passover a year after MLK’s assassination and the origin of the Freedom Seder. [00:04:07] — Arthur Waskow’s background and path to becoming a rabbi through the Freedom Seder. [00:09:14] — Distinction between universal and Jewish themes in the Haggadah. [00:10:42] — Observations on the symbolism of unlit candles and the unique kiddush for Saturday night. [00:14:29] — Discussion on Waskow’s reimagined translation of “Melech Haolam” and blessing reinterpretations. [00:19:08] — Story of Rabbi Mendel and the power of silence and speech in the Seder. [00:20:09] — Ritual of darkness and silence before candle lighting, using silence and speech as symbolic themes. [00:21:41] — Opening the door for Elijah and referencing Ha Lachma Anya with new interpretations. [00:24:25] — Reflecting on “Next year in Jerusalem” as both literal and metaphorical. [00:26:39] — Revolutionary themes in Moses’ story and the broader message of activism and discomfort in liberation. Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter Safaria Source Sheet: Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/04/09/freedom-haggadah-tradition-meets-social-justice/ /episode/index/show/madlik/id/36078650

Matzah's Hidden Meaning 04/03/2025

How the Israelites Gave Us Self Care & Daily Rituals 03/27/2025

Electric Sabbath 03/20/2025

Unveiling the Hidden Wisdom of Purim: A Feast of Fools for Modern Times 03/13/2025

The High Priest's Breastplate: A Symbol of Unity and Representation 03/06/2025

The High Priest's Breastplate: A Symbol of Unity and Representation What if the biblical tribes of Israel were more radical than we ever imagined? At the heart of our discussion is the high priest's breastplate, described in Exodus 28. This ornate piece of priestly attire wasn't just a decorative element—it was a powerful symbol of the entire Israelite nation. The breastplate featured 12 precious stones, each engraved with the name of one of the tribes of Israel. This was a profound representation of a radical social structure God was establishing for His people. "The stone shall correspond in number to the names of the sons of Israel, 12 corresponding to their names. They shall be engraved like seals, each with its name for the 12 tribes." This description emphasizes a crucial point: every tribe had equal representation on the breastplate. There was no hierarchy, no favored position. Each tribe, regardless of size or perceived importance, had its place. Even one missing letter would render it unusable - every tribe mattered. Key Takeaways 1. The high priest's breastplate represented all 12 tribes of Israel, symbolizing a unique social structure that united diverse groups under one ideology and legal system. 2. The tribal confederacy of ancient Israel was a radical departure from typical city-state models, creating a flexible yet cohesive society bound by shared beliefs rather than physical structures. 3. The concept of equal tribes working together remains relevant today, offering insights into how modern societies can function without clear majorities or hierarchies. Timestamps [0:00] Intro to Madlik Disruptive Torah [3:05] Exploring the radical tribal confederacy [6:30] The high priest's breastplate and tribes [11:01] Functionality and symbolism of the Urim Vitumim [15:33] Importance of representing all tribes perfectly [19:16] God, Torah and people coming together [25:22] Norman Gottwald's analysis of Israelite society [29:59] Radical nature of tribal structure then and now Links & Learnings Sign up for free and get more from our weekly newsletter Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/03/05/tribal-revolution/ /episode/index/show/madlik/id/35554515

Torah On the Move 02/27/2025

Torah – Not a Code of Law 02/20/2025

Torah – Not a Code of Law In this week’s episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah, we explore how the Torah's legal sections, particularly in Parashat Mishpatim, interact with and transform the legal traditions of the ancient Near East rather than create an original Code of Law. We take this fascinating journey through the lens of Umberto Cassuto, a brilliant biblical scholar whose work has been largely overlooked in modern biblical scholarship. Background and Context The Torah is often viewed as an all-encompassing legal code, dictating every aspect of Jewish life. However, Umberto Cassuto, writing in the newly formed state of Israel, presents a revolutionary perspective. He argues that the Torah's laws should be understood in the context of existing legal traditions in the ancient Near East. Cassuto's approach is groundbreaking. He suggests that to truly understand the Torah's legal sections, we must examine them alongside other ancient legal codes, such as the Code of Hammurabi. This comparison reveals the Torah's unique contributions and its transformative impact on existing legal norms. Key Insights and Takeaways 1. The Torah as a Responsive Document Contrary to the idea that the Torah created a legal system from scratch, Cassuto argues that it responds to and builds upon existing legal traditions. This perspective challenges our understanding of the Torah's role in ancient Israelite society. 2. The Religious Nature of Torah Law While other ancient Near Eastern legal codes were primarily secular, the Torah introduces a religious dimension to law. As Rabbi Adam Mintz points out: "What's surprising in Judaism is the laws come from God. And the reason for that is because they practice monotheism... Monotheism allows for religious law. Idolatry doesn't allow for religious law." 3. Three Ways the Torah Interacts with Existing Laws Cassuto identifies three primary ways the Torah engages with existing legal traditions: - Introducing amendments - Opposing or invalidating certain aspects - Confirming and elevating worthy aspects This nuanced approach shows how the Torah acts as a catalyst for change while acknowledging existing societal norms. 4. The Sanctity of Human Life One of the most significant innovations of Torah law is its emphasis on the sanctity of human life. Geoffrey, quoting Cassuto highlights this point: "The Torah wishes to affirm and establish the principle in the name of divine law that human life is sacred, and whoever assails this sanctity forfeits his own life, measure for measure." This principle leads to more compassionate laws, even for those who have committed crimes. Challenges and Practical Advice 1. Rethinking Biblical Interpretation Cassuto's approach challenges us to reconsider how we interpret biblical texts. By understanding the historical and legal context, we gain new insights into the Torah's teachings. 2. Balancing Tradition and Innovation The Torah's interaction with existing legal codes provides a model for how we can approach societal change today. It shows us how to respect tradition while pushing for ethical improvements. 3. Applying Ancient Wisdom to Modern Challenges Umberto Cassuto's work offers a fresh perspective on the Torah's legal sections. By viewing them in the context of ancient Near Eastern legal traditions, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Torah's innovative and transformative nature as well as it’s limitations. The Torah laws were not meant to replace or undermine all existing norms, customs and social behavior. This approach provides a model for how religious traditions can respect, engage with and elevate societal norms. It challenges us to think critically about the interplay between religious teachings and secular laws in our own time and in general and in the State of Israel, in particular. As we continue to grapple with complex ethical and legal issues in the modern world, the Torah's example of building upon existing foundations while introducing higher ethical standards remains profoundly relevant. To dive deeper into this fascinating topic and hear the full discussion, be sure to listen to the entire episode of Madlik and check out the Sefaria Source Notes /episode/index/show/madlik/id/35359645

The Art of the Steal 02/14/2025

The Art of the Steal The Art of Stealing: Unraveling the Complexities of the Eighth Commandment "Thou shalt not steal" seems straightforward, but is it? This week's episode of Madlik delves into the intricate world of Jewish law and ethics surrounding theft, revealing surprising insights that challenge our assumptions about this fundamental commandment. Background and Context The Ten Commandments are a cornerstone of Judeo-Christian ethics, but their interpretation is far from simple. In this episode, we explore the eighth commandment, "Thou shalt not steal," uncovering layers of meaning that go far beyond the obvious prohibition of theft. Rabbi Adam Mintz and Geoffrey Stern guide us through a fascinating journey, examining rabbinic interpretations that span millennia. From the Talmud to Maimonides, we discover how Jewish scholars have grappled with the concept of stealing, expanding it to encompass a wide range of ethical considerations. Key Insights and Takeaways 1. Kidnapping vs. Theft Contrary to popular belief, the rabbis interpreted "Thou shalt not steal" in the Ten Commandments as referring specifically to kidnapping, not theft of property. This interpretation stems from the context of the other commandments, which deal with capital offenses. > "Scripture here is speaking about a case of one who steals human beings, whilst the command in Leviticus, 'you shall not steal,' speaks about a case of one who steals money from another person's property." - Rashi This distinction highlights the gravity with which Jewish law views the theft of a person's freedom, placing it on par with murder and adultery. 2. The Spectrum of Stealing While the Ten Commandments may focus on kidnapping, Jewish law expands the concept of stealing to cover a wide range of actions: - Theft of property - Deception (geneivat da'at) - Stealing sleep (gezel sheina) - Unfair business practices - Plagiarism This broad interpretation encourages us to consider how our actions might "steal" from others in less obvious ways. 3. The Psychology of Stealing Maimonides warns against stealing even in jest or with the intention to return the item: > "It is forbidden to steal as a jest, to steal with the intent to return, or to steal with the intent to pay, lest one habituate oneself to such conduct." This perspective emphasizes the importance of cultivating ethical habits and avoiding even the appearance of impropriety. 4. The Social Impact of Theft Nachmanides (Ramban) connects the prohibition against stealing to the broader social fabric: "If you do any one of the Thou Shalt nots in the second tablet, you are breaking the social network that is formed by saying God created everyone in His image, and your parents are partners in that." This interpretation encourages us to view ethical behavior not just as individual actions, but as part of maintaining a harmonious society. Challenges and Practical Advice 1. Redefining Theft in the Modern World As our world becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, we face new challenges in defining and preventing theft. Consider: - Intellectual property rights - Data privacy - Time theft in the workplace Action Step: Reflect on your digital interactions. Are there ways you might be "stealing" that you haven't considered before? 2. Cultivating Ethical Habits Maimonides' warning about habituating oneself to stealing applies to many areas of life. How can we build positive ethical habits? - Practice mindfulness in your interactions with others - Regularly reflect on your actions and their potential impact - Seek feedback from trusted friends or mentors on your ethical conduct 3. Balancing Intent and Impact The rabbinic discussions highlight the complexity of ethical decision-making. Sometimes, good intentions can lead to harmful outcomes. Challenge: Think of a situation where you tried to help someone but may have inadvertently caused harm or discomfort. How could you approach similar situations differently in the future? What We Learned About Stealing Our exploration of "Thou shalt not steal" reveals that this commandment is far more nuanced and far-reaching than we might have assumed. It challenges us to: 1. Consider the broader implications of our actions 2. Cultivate ethical habits in all areas of life 3. Recognize the interconnectedness of individual ethics and social harmony By delving into these ancient texts and interpretations, we gain valuable insights that can guide our ethical decision-making in the modern world. The Jewish tradition's expansive view of stealing encourages us to be more mindful of how our actions impact others and to strive for a higher standard of ethical behavior. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let's carry these insights with us, always striving to uphold the spirit of "Thou shalt not steal" in its fullest sense. Ready to dive deeper into this fascinating topic? Listen to the full episode of Madlik for more insights and join the conversation about ethics, law, and the timeless wisdom of the Jewish tradition. Please also find Sefaria Source Sheet link here: /episode/index/show/madlik/id/35277500

Root Experiences... Beyond Philosophy 02/06/2025

Root Experiences... Beyond Philosophy The Maidservant's Vision: Redefining Jewish Experience and Philosophy Our latest Madlik Disruptive Torah episode challenges conventional wisdom about Jewish history and philosophy. Exploring the concept of "root experiences," we delve into how a simple maidservant's vision at the Red Sea can reshape our understanding of Jewish thought and practice. Background and Context The episode centers on Parashat B'shalach, specifically the Song of the Sea in Exodus 15:1. This iconic moment in Jewish history is recited daily in morning prayers, underscoring its significance. Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz examine various interpretations of this passage, focusing on a particular Midrash that claims a maidservant at the Red Sea saw more than even the greatest prophets. This seemingly innocuous Midrash becomes the springboard for a profound discussion on post-Holocaust Jewish philosophy, drawing on the works of Emil Fackenheim, Martin Buber, Elie Wiesel, and Yitz Greenberg. Key Insights and Takeaways 1. The Power of Collective Experience The episode emphasizes the unique aspect of Jewish tradition that values collective experience over individual revelation. Unlike other religions founded on the visions of a single prophet, Judaism's foundational moments involve the entire community. This perspective challenges us to reconsider the importance of communal participation in religious and cultural experiences. 2. Redefining historical perspective and theology The Midrash's assertion that a maidservant saw more than the prophets Isaiah and Ezekiel challenges traditional hierarchies of religious knowledge. It suggests that direct experience can trump even the most sublime visions. Geoffrey explains Fackenheim's interpretation: "After the Holocaust, we can no longer run away from those... inconvenient truths of good and evil, those inconvenient truths of what happened to God's chosen people. We cannot escape into the world of philosophy and Kabbalah." This idea invites us to question our assumptions about wisdom and authority, especially in the face of profound historical events. 3. The Concept of "Root Experiences" Fackenheim introduces the idea of "root experiences" - pivotal moments in Jewish history that shape the collective consciousness. These experiences are characterized by: - Involvement of the multitude - Transformation of earthly reality, not just heavenly visions - Ongoing impact on future generations - Inspiring action and change This framework offers a new lens through which to view Jewish history and tradition, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of past events. Challenges and Practical Advice 1. Embracing Contradiction Fackenheim argues that Jewish thought, particularly Midrashic thinking, thrives on contradiction. Rather than seeking to resolve these tensions, we should embrace them as reflective of the complex nature of human experience. Fackenheim writes: "Midrashic thinking cannot resolve the contradictions in the root experience of Judaism, but actually expresses them. Midrashic thought, therefore, is both fragmentary and whole." This perspective challenges us to move beyond black-and-white thinking and embrace the nuances of our traditions and experiences. 2. Balancing Tradition and Contemporary Challenges The episode grapples with the challenge of honoring Jewish tradition while remaining responsive to modern realities. Fackenheim warns against making Judaism "absolutely immune to all future events except Messianic ones," arguing that this approach dismisses the challenges of contemporary events. Instead, we're encouraged to engage with our traditions in a way that allows for growth and adaptation in response to new circumstances. 3. Redefining the Importance of Historical Events The discussion suggests that the literal historical accuracy of events like the splitting of the Red Sea may be less important than how these stories have shaped Jewish consciousness over time. Geoffrey explains: "What makes the Jewish people, what guarantees its future, what gives us hope and faith, is that we can still look at the Red Sea event and look at it from the perspective of 2000 years of Jews who have reacted to it, 2000 years of Jews who can talk about it without even talking about the historical event." This perspective invites us to engage with our traditions not as fixed historical facts, but as living, evolving narratives that continue to shape our identities and values. What We Learned About Jewish Philosophy and Experience This episode of Madlik Disruptive Torah offers a profound reimagining of Jewish thought and experience. By exploring the concept of "root experiences" and the power of collective memory, it challenges us to reconsider our approach to tradition, wisdom, and contemporary challenges. The discussion invites us to: - Value collective experiences over individual revelations - Recognize wisdom in unexpected places - Embrace contradiction as a source of depth and meaning - Engage with tradition in ways that remain responsive to modern realities - See our sacred texts and stories as living, evolving narratives As we grapple with the complexities of modern Jewish identity and the ongoing impact of historical traumas like the Holocaust, and ongoing conflicts, these insights offer a framework for engaging with our traditions in meaningful, transformative ways. Whether you're a scholar of Jewish philosophy or simply curious about new perspectives on tradition and experience, whether you're secular or religious, this episode provides valuable food for thought. We encourage you to listen to the full discussion and continue exploring these ideas in your own study and practice. Sefaria Source Sheet: Transcript on episode web page: /episode/index/show/madlik/id/35183760