Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa

Lesson 4: Counterweights Considered

You’ve probably heard a lot of loose talk about “loopholes” in Jewish law.
In Lesson 4, we’re putting those rumors to rest.
Why do rabbis sometimes rule in unexpected ways?
Turns out, there are values hardwired into Jewish law to protect things.

Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa

Lesson 3: Precedent in Practice

New inventions, dangerous new historical realities, or just people doing new things—how is the Torah able to guide us through it all?
Dive into more fascinating cases to explore the Torah’s model for applying existing precedent to new and novel situations.

Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa

Lesson 2: The Quest for Facts

Do sages make assumptions about how reality works, or do they investigate the facts? Follow rabbis as they conduct five fascinating investigations worldwide.

Cases: Cairo, 1548; Altona, 1709; Hamburg, 1772; Jerusalem, 1866; Brooklyn, 1958

Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa

Lesson 1: The Questions and the People who asked them

What do these questions reveal about our ancestors? What did they think, feel, and value? Explore five fascinating stories to find out.

Cases: Barcelona, 1300; Algiers, 1450; Modena, 1530; Spain, 1450; Auschwitz, 1944

The Kabbalah of Meaning

Lesson 6: I Mean Something, Therefore I Am

Before you do anything, you are worthy. Discover Judaism’s empowering understanding of your inherent worth as an individual and as a Jew, and how it calls us to even greater achievement.

The Kabbalah of Meaning

Lesson 5: Meaning in the Unchosen

Some things are clearly meaningful, but what if everything is? Explore a vision of life where every event and circumstance catalyzes growth and leads to greater purpose.

The Kabbalah of Meaning

Lesson 4: Meaning in the Rhythms of Time

As time flies by, is it just more of the same? Discover the rich texture of Jewish time, and how attuning ourselves to each moment’s message enables profound spiritual purpose.

The Kabbalah of Meaning

Lesson 3: Meaning in the Mundane

If existence has a purpose, then what is it? Discovering that purpose uncovers the mystery of life's details. Even if it happens every day, daily life needn’t feel ordinary. See how every part of the day can be as significant as your highest aspirations.