Innovation or Assimilation? The Moses Mendelssohn Story

01/18/24 • 38 min

Moses Mendelssohn faced the intricate challenges of being a Jew in an enlightened European setting. Despite impactful contributions, his legacy includes challenges faced by his family and questions about the long-term impact of his ideas on Jewish identity. Join Schwab and Yael as they explore the complex story of Moses Mendelssohn, and delve into the intricacies of Jewish identity.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Moses Mendelssohn, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x3_mO1dbJc4DQf4sg6JZtyqfWkiU3nHNj8YNSszDhFc/edit#heading=h.j4qqg1vxy5x0

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This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Moses Mendelssohn, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1x3_mO1dbJc4DQf4sg6JZtyqfWkiU3nHNj8YNSszDhFc/edit#heading=h.j4qqg1vxy5x0

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Graetz's Balancing Act: Modernity and Judaism

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Meet Heinrich Graetz, the trailblazing historian who transformed Jewish history. Born into 19th-century Germany, Graetz challenged norms and bridged the gap between Orthodox and academic worlds. Join us as we unravel Graetz's legacy and explore the evolving landscape of Jewish identity through his groundbreaking work. In this episode, hosts Schwab and Yael explore the life and pioneering work of 19th-century German Jewish historian Heinrich Graetz. The episode reflects on tensions surrounding Graetz's work, highlighting the ongoing relevance of his social scientific approach.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on Heinrich Graetz, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EfqB96omNaNU8MpWpcpd1gOmxDz4P-1yU3kHEXOLriE/edit?usp=sharing

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The First Female Rabbi?: Maiden of Ludmir

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Welcome to Ludmir, Ukraine. The year is 1806, and the revolutionary Hannah Rachel Vermermacher, also known as the Maiden of Ludmir, is shaking up the traditional Jewish world. Born into affluence, Hannah Rachel's life took a transformative turn, leading her to embrace the role of a Hasidic rabbi, or rebbe. Despite facing objections and rumors, she chose an independent path, attracting followers seeking her guidance, and breaking a few societal norms along the way. Eventually, Hannah Rachel ventured to Jerusalem, expanding her influence as her teachings spread across the broader Jewish world. Join Yael and Schwab as they discover the enduring impact of the Maiden of Ludmir's unique story, uncovering a harmonious blend of mysticism and independence.

This episode was hosted by Jonathan Schwab and Yael Steiner. Our education lead is Dr. Henry Abramson. Audio was edited by Rob Pera, and we’re produced by Rivky Stern.

For more on the Maiden of Ludmir, and this episode: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xPOaXDHbiTh_hHoJHaV32jlg9CVsWiGYKOFMntzmYo4/edit#heading=h.ox6pluiqfvx2