Who deserves to be cut off? (Beha'alotcha): Ep. 46

Who deserves to be cut off? (Beha'alotcha): Ep. 46

Author: Tablet Magazine June 8, 2020 Duration: 11:24
This week, we look at one of the Bible's most severe punishments, that of being "cut off" from the people, and consider what actions today might separate someone from the Jewish community.

In a world where ancient scripture can feel distant, Parsha in Progress offers a grounded and engaging conversation that bridges millennia. Hosted by Rabbi Dov Linzer and author Abigail Pogrebin, this podcast from Tablet Magazine features an Orthodox rabbi and a Reform Jew in a unique dialogue. Every other week, they take on the designated weekly Torah portion, examining a specific Biblical narrative or ethical dilemma at its core. Their discussion isn't a scholarly lecture but a genuine exploration, unpacking the layers of the text with both deep respect and contemporary curiosity. You'll hear how these age-old stories resonate with-and sometimes complicate-modern life, from personal ethics to societal challenges. The hosts bring their distinct perspectives with warmth, occasional humor, and a shared love for the material, making the parsha feel immediate and alive. This isn't about providing easy answers but about thinking aloud, finding nuance, and appreciating the text's enduring power. Whether you're deeply familiar with the weekly readings or simply curious about the Bible's relevance, this podcast serves as a thoughtful companion, turning a ritual of reading into an ongoing, accessible conversation. It’s a chance to listen in as two insightful minds navigate the timeless human questions embedded in the Torah, finding progress within tradition itself.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 55

Parsha in Progress
Podcast Episodes
Banishing the Sick (Tazria): Ep. 14 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:24
How do we understand biblical commands that seem cruel? This week, we discuss the Biblical response to physical ailments, focusing on the case of the "metzorah" who is diagnosed with a skin disease and then sent to live…
Nadav and Abihu (Shemini): Ep. 13 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:01
In this episode, Dov and Abby discuss the death of two sons of Aaron the High Priest, killed by divine fire for offering an unrequested "strange fire" on the altar, and consider why the zealous worship of God can often l…
Animal Sacrifices (Vayikra): Ep. 12 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:44
In this episode, Dov and Abby discuss the commandment to offer animal sacrifices, and consider the spiritual possibilities and detriments of sacrificial worship.
The Golden Calf (Ki Tisa): Ep. 11 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:14
In this episode, Dov and Abby discuss the sin of the Golden Calf, and consider why the sin against God demanded such a harsh punishment.
Does God Need a House? (Terumah): Ep. 10 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:03
This episode discusses how it can be more difficult to connect with God in synagogue than, say, nature (which is how Dov feels), but also how the beauty and community of a synagogue makes it easier for some to be spiritu…
The Ten Commandments (Yitro): Ep. 9 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 14:46
This week, we discuss the ten commandments and consider how this text became foundational to understanding the Jewish relationship to God.
The Crossing of the Red Sea (Beshalach): Ep. 8 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 11:01
This week we delve into the Song of the Sea, the Biblical poem which celebrates the drowning of the Egyptians and the Israelite exodus from Egypt, and whose central message has been reinterpreted throughout centuries of…
The Early Life of Moses (Shemot): Ep. 7 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 12:26
This week we discuss leadership in action, looking at the early life of Moses and considering the challenges of cultivating fierce ideological commitment alongside a deep and personal concern for individuals.
Good, Evil, and the Riddle of Free Will (Vayechi): Ep 6 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 10:43
Parshat Vayechi: Are humans the instruments of God, or are we responsible for our own actions? This week, we’re discussing the moment when Joseph acknowledges the evil his brothers did to him while assuring them that God…
Do Good Intentions Matter? (Vayeshev): Ep 5 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 7:04
This week on Parsha in Progress: Parshat Vayeshev—Do Good Intentions Matter? Abby and Rabbi Dov discuss the story of Joseph and his brothers. Their conversation explores how to assess the role of Reuven, who attempted to…