Is Bilaam a villain—or a mirror?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Mike Feuer dive into Parshat Balak to explore the figure of Bilaam—an outsider prophet with powerful words and a dangerous gaze. They discuss what makes Bilaam a spiritual counterpoint to Avraham, why God turns his curses into blessings, and how ayin tova (a good eye) can transform how we see the world.
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35:13
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35:13
Chukat 5785: Holiness and Humanity
What did Moshe get wrong—and why was the consequence so severe?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Tovah Leah Nachmani explore Parshat Chukat against the backdrop of Israel’s war with Iran. They reflect on the mysterious sin of Moshe at Mei Merivah and what it means to sanctify God in moments of pressure and uncertainty. Through ancient stories and modern realities, they examine the balance between faith and human action, asking how we recognize divine presence in a world shaped by trauma, responsibility, and courage.
Featuring
Tovah Leah Nachmani – Pardes Faculty
Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem
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33:43
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33:43
Korach 5785: Ambition and Rebellion
What was Korach really fighting for?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Raphael Polisuk explore Parshat Korach. They revisit Korach’s rebellion not just as a political protest, but as a sincere—and dangerous—desire for closeness to God. Drawing connections to Nadav and Avihu, incense offerings, and divine fire, the episode challenges listeners to consider whether spiritual closeness is always a blessing—or sometimes too powerful to survive.
Featuring
Rabbi Raphael Polisuk – Pardes Faculty
Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem
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38:54
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38:54
Shlach 5785: Faith or Fear
Why did the generation of miracles still fear the land ahead?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Michael Hattin explore Parshat Shlach and the story of the spies. They examine the conflicting accounts, debate who bears responsibility for the mission’s failure, and ask why fear overtook a generation that witnessed miracles. The conversation reflects on leadership, memory, and what it takes to move forward in uncertain times.
Featuring
Rabbi Michael Hattin – Pardes Faculty
Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem
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32:29
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32:29
Beha’alotecha 5785: The Traveling Ark
What does it mean to carry holiness with us?
In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Leon Morris explore Parshat Behaalotcha and the two cryptic verses about the Ark of the Covenant’s journey. They dive into why these verses are set apart in the Torah, how they became the definition of what makes a sacred book, and what it means to “save Torah from the fire.” The conversation reveals a vision of Torah as a living, moving force that journeys with us and invites constant re-engagement.
Featuring
Rabbi Leon Morris – President of Pardes Institute
Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem
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.
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