Pardes from Jerusalem

Can self-reflection become a path to holiness?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash explore Parshat Vayakhel–Pekudei through a striking detail of the Mishkan: the women’s mirrors used to create the basin for the priests. Drawing on Midrash and interpretation, they reflect on how mirrors symbolize self-awareness and identity—reminding us that serving God begins with knowing who we are. The conversation asks how self-reflection, relationships, and moral intention can transform ordinary human awareness into sacred service.

What does Jewish tradition teach about the right way to use wealth and power?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbanit Shalhevet Cahana explore Parshat Ki Tisa and the story of Purim through the lens of wealth and power. From the mitzvah of the machatzit hashekel to the lavish excess of Achashverosh’s court, they examine how money in Megillat Esther becomes a moral test—used by some to dominate and by others to build community and responsibility. The conversation asks what Jewish tradition teaches about the ethical use of wealth and influence.

How do we remain faithful to tradition when a sacred text makes us uncomfortable?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Daniel Reifman take a thoughtful look at one of the hardest parts of Megillat Esther—the battle scenes at the end of the story. As Purim approaches, they explore different ways to understand these passages: Was the war defensive? A product of its time? Or even intentionally over-the-top? The conversation offers a model for engaging difficult texts with honesty, while still celebrating Purim with depth and joy.

If God wants to dwell among us, what are we building to make that possible?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Raphael Polisuk explore Parshat Trumah and the surprising claim that the Mishkan is not a detour from Sinai, but its fulfillment. They trace how the language of holiness, fire, and divine presence links Mount Sinai to the Tabernacle, reframing the second half of Sefer Shemot as the book’s true destination. The conversation asks what it means to create space for God—not as a metaphor, but through concrete action, beauty, justice, and shared responsibility.

How does Torah teach us to use power without abusing it?

In this episode, Zvi Hirschfield and Rabbi Dr. Meesh Hammer-Kossoy explore Parshat Mishpatim as the Torah’s first sustained encounter with law—and what it reveals about human power and moral responsibility. They examine why revelation leads directly into detailed civil laws, how Torah assumes human failure, and why justice requires limits on authority, wealth, and even righteous intention. The conversation argues that holiness is built not through ideals alone, but through careful accountability in everyday human relationships.