On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah

Latest Episodes:

What's the Point? Mar 12, 2018

Show notes

Parashat Vayikra is the first portion of the Book of Leviticus. Vayikra describes a lot that might not directly resonate with modern spiritual life, but it still offers much for us to think about. What's the point of these parashiyot that don't apply to our daily lives? Rabbi Rick Jacobs gives his answer in this episode of On the Other Hand.

Creating The Power of a Space with Michael Arad Mar 05, 2018

Show notes

Michael Arad, the visionary architect who designed New York's National 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center site, joins Rabbi Rick Jacobs in this episode of On the Other Hand. They discuss the double portion of Vayak'heil-P'kudei, what it means when a space fosters community, and Arad's design for a pluralistic prayer space at the Western Wall.

Just Rest Feb 26, 2018

Show notes

Parashat Ki Tisa features what is arguably one of Judaism's most powerful teachings: no matter how busy you are, and no matter how important the task at hand is, you must rest. In this episode, Rabbi Rick Jacobs discusses the power and importance of Shabbat, and what Shabbat looks like for Reform Jews today.

What to Wear Feb 19, 2018

Show notes

Parashat T'tzaveh goes into detail about the ritual garments and dress of the ancient high priests. In almost every religious community, the leaders wear distinctive garments that make their roles clear in their respective communities. In this episode of On the Other Hand, Rabbi Jacobs wonders whether those who wear these garments are the only spiritual leaders in their communities, and shares a touching story about one of his own unexpected spiritual leaders.

The Right Ways to Give Feb 12, 2018

Show notes

In Parashat T'rumah, God asks the Israelites for gifts and there are so many different ways and reasons that people give - but is there a best way? Rabbi Rick Jacobs discusses different perspectives on giving in this episode of On the Other Hand.

Always Be Present Feb 05, 2018

Show notes

Near the end of Parashat Mishpatim, God tells Moses to go to the mountain, and to "be there." Why would God tell Moses to "be there" after already telling him exactly where to be? In this episode of On the Other Hand, Rabbi Rick Jacobs poses the idea that God wants to make sure Moses is spiritually, emotionally, and mentally present—and that being present in that way is just as important for all of us today as it was for Moses.

Courageous Leadership Jan 29, 2018

Show notes

In this episode of On the Other Hand, Rabbi Jacobs talks with Rabbi Judy Schindler. They discuss Parashat Yitro, expanding the tent of Jewish life, the legacy passed down by her father, social justice activism, and Rabbi Schindler's book Recharging Judaism. Rabbi Schindler is the Sklut Professor of Jewish Studies and Director of the Stan Greenspon Center for Peace and Social Justice at Queens University of Charlotte and Rabbi Emerita at Temple Beth El in Charlotte, North Carolina.

When it's the Time to Act, and When it's the Time to Pray Jan 22, 2018

Show notes

In Parashat B'shalach, the Israelites arrive at the Sea of Reeds, the sea parts, and they walk across dry land toward freedom. Before they cross, though, there's a moment where Moses stands in front of the sea, and he has no idea what to do. He obviously figures it out... but how? Rabbi Jacobs discusses Parashat B'shalach, and the difference between action and prayer, in this episode of On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah.

Fighting for Freedom Jan 15, 2018

Show notes

Parashat Bo features the four famous words, "let my people go," a refrain for countless communities seeking freedom. In this episode of On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah, Rabbi Jacobs discusses some of those communities, and how the Israelites' fight for liberation inspired and fueled their movements.

Modern Day Moses Jan 08, 2018

Show notes

This week, Rabbi Jacobs discusses Parashat Va-eira. Parashat Va-eira is read during Shabbat Tzedek, right before we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, and it's fitting that this parashah tells the story of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt. What can we learn about social justice from this story? Listen to this episode of On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah to find out.