Ep 41 - Messiah ... Riding on a Donkey?! (Sanhedrin 98a)

Join us as we navigate the fascinating Talmudic texts that grapple with the anticipated arrival of the Messiah, an enigma cloaked in prophecy and expectation. Our journey through these ancient pages leads us to an exploration of the dichotomy between the Jewish people's merit and the predestined timing of the Messiah's coming. With the clouds of heaven or riding on a donkey, each scenario unravels profound symbolism that we unpack, particularly the representation of materialism by the humble donkey. We reflect on the significance of being stewards over our material desires, understanding that our actions may indeed influence the advent of redemption.

Listen in as we share the intriguing tale of the Messiah, tending to his bandages among the afflicted, ready to emerge when called upon. The conversation unfolds further with the allegorical encounter between Rabbi Yehoshua Ben Levi and Elijah, emphasizing the collective role in heeding divine guidance for transformative change. As we close this session, we ponder the foretold tribulations preceding the Messiah's arrival, promising to continue this enriching discussion in our next gathering.

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The Thinking Talmudist Podcast shares select teachings of Talmud in a fresh, insightful and meaningful way. Many claim that they cannot learn Talmud because it is in ancient Aramaic or the concepts are too difficult. Well, no more excuses. In this podcast you will experience the refreshing and eye-opening teachings while gaining an amazing appreciation for the divine wisdom of the Torah and the depths of the Talmud.

This episode of the Thinking Talmudist Podcast (Ep. 41) is dedicated in honor of our dear friend, Ed Steiner who is always a source of great insight and joy in our Talmud Classes!

To listen to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: https://linktr.ee/ariwol

• Jewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodes
• Parsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodes
• Living Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodes
• Thinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodes
• Unboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodes
• Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodes

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Recorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on December 22, 2023, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on December 27, 2023