REALLY JEWISH with Oliver Joseph

REALLY JEWISH SE2:E2 - ten days

The conversation explores the significance of the 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, delving into the themes of reflection, repentance, and self-improvement. It also touches on the challenges and practices of observing these days, as well as the impact of sharing Torah and spiritual experiences with a wider audience. Takeaways Teshuvah: The 10 days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time for reflection, repentance, and self-improvement. Challenges and Practices: Observing the 10 days involves prayer, contemplation, self-assessment, and immersion in spiritual experiences. Sharing Torah: Sharing Torah and spiritual experiences with a wider audience can be both meaningful and challenging. Chapters 00:00 The 10 Days of Teshuvah 03:19 Challenges of Observing the 10 Days 20:54 The Significance of the Shofar 40:15 Reflections on Sharing Torah

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REALLY JEWISH SE2:E1 - 'New Year resolutions, nedarim'

S2:E1, ‘New Year’s resolutions and vows’. Turning our attention to the Jewish new year, we talk about the topic of vows in the Jewish tradition, discussing the ambivalence towards vows in the Bible and the significance of making commitments. It delves into the impact of vows on personal and religious life, as well as the broader community, and examines the power dynamics and implications of annulment of vows. Takeaways Vows in Judaism carry a deep sense of commitment and agency, reflecting a balance between religious and secular perspectives. The Kol Nidre service holds significant cultural and communal importance, providing a sense of renewal and a fresh start for the year ahead. Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Concept of Vows in Judaism 02:14 The Biblical Perspective on Vows 05:39 Personal Experiences and Reflections on Vows 24:09 The Significance of Kol Nidre 31:23 Power Dynamics of Vow Annulment

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E27 - telling stories

The conversation begins with an introduction to Israel Story and the power of storytelling. It then delves into Mishy Harman's personal journey, the impact of podcasts, the magic of live storytelling, and the humanity in stories. The conversation concludes with a wish for the Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Takeaways Diverse storytelling Humanity in storytelling Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Journey 01:18 The Essence of Judaism and Religious Identity 03:08 The Power of Storytelling 08:05 Personal Stories and Identity 10:11 The Impact of Stories on Perception 13:31 The Role of Empathy in Storytelling 16:59 The Power of Personal Stories 19:27 The Impact of Personal Stories 21:22 The Intimacy of Storytelling 23:34 The Universality of Stories 28:15 The Influence of Personal Stories

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E26 - Loving the land

The conversation delves into the Love of the Land Substack project (link in show notes), the complexity of the Israel-Palestine narrative, the historical and archaeological composition of the land, the tragedy and possibility of the encounter between Jews and Arabs, the impact of recent events on work and family, and the importance of historical knowledge in understanding the Jewish story. Takeaways Jewish history and connection to the land of Israel The importance of deepening historical knowledge and understanding the complexity of the Israel-Palestine narrative Chapters 00:00 The Jewish Relationship with Israel 03:36 Historical and Archaeological Aspects of the Land 28:02 Impact of COVID and War on Tourism 35:43 Personal Reflections of Being a Tour Guide in Israel

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E25 - Between tradition & innovation, masoret & chidush

The conversation explores the intersection of tradition and innovation in Jewish life, reflecting on the balance between the two and the impact on personal and national identity. It delves into the complexities of maintaining tradition while embracing innovation, drawing from historical and contemporary examples. Takeaways Tradition and innovation are intertwined in Jewish life The balance between tradition and innovation is crucial for personal and national identity Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 02:59 The Significance of Recording in Person 04:11 Masoret and Chidush: Tradition and Innovation 05:42 The Impact of Tradition and Innovation in Jerusalem 10:27 The Role of Tradition and Innovation in Jewish Life 17:51 The Intersection of Tradition and Innovation in Jewish Culture 34:21 The Story of Rabbi Akiva and Moses

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E24 - Blasphemy, crossing the line

Rabbi Joel discusses the concept of blasphemy, the role of the sacred, and the mystery of the name of God in the Jewish tradition. He emphasizes the importance of truth, the tension between fraudulence and truth, and the significance of the sacred in human life. The conversation delves into the concept of the hidden sacred, the reverence and avoidance of pronouncing the name of God, the interaction with divine and the edges of holiness, the dark side of sacredness, and the need for reframing religion in the 21st century. It explores the impossibility of blasphemy, the impact of religious hostility on society, and the significant challenge of understanding religion in a connected world. Takeaways Blasphemy and the unsayable The tension between fraudulence and truth in religious beliefs Hidden nature of the sacred Humor in religious context Chapters 00:00 Exploring Blasphemy and the Unspeakable 07:26 Pushing the Boundaries: Purpose and Truth 20:36 The Significance of the Sacred 29:42 The Mystery of God's Name 31:20 The Ultimate Sacred Postulate 32:01 The Reverent and Hidden Nature of the Sacred

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E23 - Maalach Hamavet, the Angel of Death

The conversation with Rabbi Roni Tabick delves into the personal and professional journey of a rabbi, exploring the topic of Maalach Hamavet (the Angel of Death) and its significance in Jewish tradition. It also touches on the role of a rabbi at times of crisis, a rabbis capacity to comfort and offer support and something of the essence of Jewish life. Takeaways Maalach Hamavet: The discussion provides a deep exploration of the concept of Maalach Hamavet, shedding light on its symbolic and psychological significance in Jewish tradition. Rabbinic Role: The conversation highlights the role of rabbis in providing comfort, support, and guidance to individuals facing death and loss, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in pastoral care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Rabbi Rony 01:35 Rabbinic Journey and Calling 02:54 Exploring Maalach Hamavet 08:15 The Experience of Death and Pastoral Care 10:31 Confronting Death and Spiritual Growth 26:40 The Role of Rabbis in Supporting Others 33:39 The Human Experience of Death

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E22 - Insider/Outsider

The conversation begins with a reunion between old friends. The core of the discussion is about the meaning of home, and the immigrant experience in the United States. Vadim and Oliver discuss challenges of integration and the impact and blessing of immigration. The conversation is nostalgic and raises questions of generational shifts in diaspora communities, the preservation of Jewish literacy and culture, insider-outsider dynamics, contribution to community and passing down the immigrant experience. Takeaways Reconnecting with old friends brings back memories and stories from the past. The immigrant experience in the States is complex and has a significant impact on individuals and communities. Preservation of cultural heritage in diaspora communities Impact of immigrant stories on the broader Jewish community Chapters 00:00 Reconnecting with an Old Friend 01:14 The Meaning of Home 02:00 Immigrant Experience in the States 03:13 The Impact of Immigration 06:12 Jewish Identity and Migration 09:47 The Kavkazi Community and Immigration 12:59 The Blessing of Immigration 21:09 Speaking Out Loud 22:06 The Heartbreak of Nostalgia 23:06 Generational Shifts and Diaspora Communities 25:01 Jewish Literacy and Cultural Preservation 26:37 Integration and Insider-Outsider Dynamics 29:14 Immigrant Experience and Community Contribution 33:26 Diversity and Inclusion in Jewish Communities

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E21 - Heartbreak and home

The conversation with Rabbi Miriam Lorie delves into her journey as a female Orthodox Rabbi, her experiences in Jerusalem, and the significance of Tisha b’Av. The themes of heartbreak, hope, and responsibility are explored, along with the importance of interfaith dialogue and the inspiration drawn from modern Israeli music. Takeaways Jerusalem as a place of home and heartbreak The importance of hope and inspiration in challenging times Chapters 00:00 Welcoming Rabbi Miriam Lorie 01:05 Journey to Jerusalem and the Old City 04:35 Experiencing Heartbreak in Jerusalem 07:26 Tisha b’Av and the Destruction of the Temple 11:00 Jerusalem: Home and Heartbreak 17:22 Reflections on Tisha b’Av and Moving Forward 23:53 Hope and Inspiration for the Future 38:20 Jerusalem: The Center of the World 40:32 Inspiration from Modern Israeli Music

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E20 - Judaism and creativity

The 20th episode of Really Jewish explores the theme of Judaism and creativity, delving into the tension between religious tradition and creative expression. The conversation touches on the core aspects of Jewish creativity, the role of uncertainty, and the need for urgency in the Jewish mission. It also addresses the dark forces that seek to suppress creativity within the Jewish community. Takeaways Judaism and creativity Religious creativity and its impact Chapters 00:00 The 20th Episode Celebration and Introduction to the Topic of Judaism and Creativity 02:33 Religion, Creativity, and the Current State of Affairs 05:34 Defining Creativity and Its Role in Jewish Tradition 08:41 The Subversive Nature of Creation and the Role of Religion 15:12 The Presence of God and the Absence of Creativity 26:20 The Inversion in Jewish Life and the Role of Uncertainty in Creation

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E19 - A Judaism of spirit

This episode delves into the intersection of Judaism and spirituality, exploring the journey of becoming a rabbi, the spiritual essence of Judaism, finding spirituality in Jewish life, and the pursuit of spirituality amidst adversity. It highlights the significance of music and singing as a source of spiritual inspiration and emphasizes the gradual and intentional nature of the spiritual journey Takeaways Judaism and spirituality are deeply interconnected The practice of singing and music is a source of spiritual inspiration Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Becoming a Rabbi 06:15 The Connection Between Judaism and Spirituality 11:05 Finding Spirituality in Jewish Life 33:06 Spirituality in Times of Struggle

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E18 - prohibition & fun

The conversation explores the role of pleasure and prohibition in the Jewish tradition, delving into the balance between joy and discipline. It also touches on the connection between religious life and secular life, as well as the impact of prohibitions on personal experiences. Takeaways Pleasure and Prohibition in Jewish Tradition Balancing Pleasure and Prohibition The Role of Prohibition in Secular and Religious Life Chapters 00:00 The Significance of Pleasure in Jewish Tradition 10:20 Balancing Pleasure and Prohibition 23:23 Rebbe Nachman's Teaching on Joy and Depression 33:29 The Role of Prohibition in Secular and Religious Life

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E17 - outreach and mission in Christianity and Judaism

The conversation delves into the generations of relationship between Christianity and Judaism, exploring why we as faith leaders are ‘called’ to our work. We discuss differences in our faith perspectives, and the significance of ‘doing’ in Jewish life. It also discusses belief and obedience in religion, the focus on belief in God and God's love in Christianity. The conversation touches on Christian missionary work and outreach, Christian-Jewish relations, religious tolerance, and promoting confidence and dialogue. The main takeaway is embracing bravery and honesty in religious conversations. Takeaways Interfaith Dialogue Religious Tolerance Chapters 00:00 Building a Relationship 09:09 Belief and Obedience 14:10 Christian Missionary Work 19:37 Christian Outreach and Jewish Community 25:00 Cross Desecration and Religious Friction 30:38 Religious Tolerance and Mutual Respect

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REALLY JEWISH SE1:E16 - Police, nice job for a Jewish boy

The conversation delves into the unique role of the UK’ most senior Jewish police officer and the challenges faced by the Jewish community in the context of policing and social unrest. It explores the impact of social media and online hate, and concludes with a message to the Jewish community and a personal reflection on the role of Judaism in shaping the Ben Russell’s day-to-day life. REALLY JEWISH SE1:E16 Takeaways The role of a senior Jewish police officer is unique and comes with its own set of challenges. The impact of social media and online hate on the Jewish community is significant and requires attention. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Reunion 05:09 The Jewish Community and Policing 15:01 Challenges Faced by the Jewish Community 28:17 The Impact of Social Media and Online Hate 35:24 Message to the Jewish Community and Personal Reflection

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REALLY JEWISH S1:E15 - Certainty and doubt

A technical delay on this week’s podcast, hope to be back on schedule for this Thursday! The conversation delves into the exploration of the Parshat Shelach Lecha, discussing the themes of certainty and doubt in the Jewish tradition. It also touches on personal and national faith, the vision of Rabbi Akiva, the challenge of religious fundamentalism, and the importance of persistence and faith in personal and national projects. Takeaways Certainty and doubt are integral to Jewish tradition Personal faith and persistence are essential for progress The challenge of religious fundamentalism requires a shift in religious understanding Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Parshat: Shelach Lecha 13:29 Personal and National Faith 25:31 The Vision of Rabbi Akiva 34:25 The Challenge of Religious Fundamentalism 42:05 Persistence and Faith in Personal and National Projects

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REALLY JEWISH S1:E14 - who are you talking to?!

We ask this week, who are we talking to, who is the target audience of the Really Jewish podcast!? The conversation delves into the exploration of Jewish identity, the challenges of navigating Jewish communities, of teaching in diverse spaces, and the impact of exceptional times on the Jewish community. It also discusses the relationship between receiving the Torah and Jewish identity, as well as the complexity of Jewish conversations and the influence of Jewish identity on morality. We consider the disperate ways Jewish people identify and how one might live with identity conflict. It explores the concept of unity at Mount Sinai and the challenge of creating communal solidarity. The discussion emphasizes the importance of finding common ground and fostering a sense of togetherness within the Jewish community and beyond. Takeaways Exploration of Jewish identity and its complexities Challenges of teaching and communicating in diverse Jewish communities Navigating Jewish identity is a complex and multifaceted journey. Creating communal solidarity requires finding common ground and fostering a sense of togetherness. Chapters 00:00 Exploring Jewish Identity 08:54 Complexity of Jewish Conversations 16:17 Jewish Identity and Morality 25:04 Receiving the Torah and Jewish Identity 36:00 Choice and Character 41:30 Creating Communal Solidarity

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REALLY JEWISH S1:E13 - on music

The conversation with Oi Va Voi members, Steve and Josh, delves into the journey of the band, the impact of recent events, navigating antisemitism, and the role of music in fostering hope and unity. The discussion highlights the resilience of the Jewish community and the power of music in transcending cultural boundaries. Takeaways Jewish Music and Identity Navigating Antisemitism Hope and Resilience Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Oi Va Voi 05:39 The Impact of Recent Events 11:04 Navigating Antisemitism and Resilience 27:09 The Role of Music in Hope and Unity

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REALLY JEWISH S1:E12 - being a rabbi

Rabbi Josh Weiner and Rabbi Oliver Spike Joseph discuss their experiences as rabbis, the highs and lows of rabbinic life, the role of a rabbi in the community, and the significance of Torah learning in preparation for Shavuot. They also explore the dynamic exchange of Torah between friends and the infinite nature of Torah. Takeaways Rabbinic life involves both majestic and intensely tough moments, balancing work, family, and personal growth. The role of a rabbi is to be a pipeline for Torah, channeling it to the community and creating space for learning and growth. Torah learning is a dynamic and collective experience, offering a connection to something divine and transcending individual experiences. Chapters 00:00 The Significance of Torah Learning for Shavuot

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REALLY JEWISH S1:E11 - place or time - Jerusalem Day

The conversation begins with an introduction to the Really Jewish podcast and the alternating format of guest interviews and discussions. It then delves into the topic of addressing antisemitism and the impact on Jewish identity. The discussion shifts to the theme of 'Judaism of Place or Time,' exploring the significance of Jerusalem and the sanctification of time and place in Judaism. The conversation delves into the significance of Jerusalem in Jewish tradition, exploring the tension between place and time. It discusses the spiritual and historical importance of Jerusalem, the sanctification of time, the civic responsibility of place, and the challenges of displacement and marginality. The tension between national identities and the embrace of tensions in Jewishness are also highlighted. Takeaways Antisemitism is a significant issue affecting the Jewish community Judaism has a multivalent relationship with different places of significance Jerusalem as a central theme The tension between place and time Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Really Jewish Podcast 22:05 The Sanctification of Time and Place in Judaism 49:23 Embracing Tensions in Jewishness

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REALLY JEWISH S1:E10 - on God

The conversation delves into the exploration of God in the Jewish tradition, God's significance and onto the evolution of human culture, music and belief. It also discusses the transition from oral to written tradition and the intuitive nature of music and human experience. The conversation emphasizes the experience of God in Jewish life and the question of God in moments of crisis. The conversation delves into the fluidity and fixation of Jewish texts, the role of God in Judaism, and the concept of living in a constructed world. It explores the significance of God in Jewish tradition, the challenges to belief in God, and the crisis of meaning and purpose in the 21st century. Takeaways The intuitive nature of music and human experience The transition from oral to written tradition Jewish texts exhibit a balance between fluidity and fixation The significance of God in Jewish tradition is a central theme Living a life of meaning and purpose involves encountering the metaphysical Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Jewish World 05:15 The Intuitive Nature of Music and Human Experience 11:59 The Evolution of Human Culture and Mythic Stories 17:15 The Theoretic Culture and the Written Tradition 22:21 Fluidity and Fixation in Jewish Texts 29:54 Living in a Constructed World