On the Other Hand: Ten Minutes of Torah

Latest Episodes:

The Power of Jewish Meditation Dec 02, 2019

Show notes

Many of us lead busy lives, but what if we were to take just one moment each day to simply "be present"? Rabbi Jacobs uses the story of Jacob's dream to guide us in meditating Jewishly so we can connect more deeply to the Divine, to ourselves, and to one another.

The Altar of Achievement Nov 25, 2019

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This week, Rabbi Jacobs discusses Parashat Tol'dot, or "The generations." Like Rebecca and her son Jacob, Rabbi Jacobs asks: Are we as parents inclined to put unrealistic expectations on our children? How can we help them grow to be their own unique, fulfilled individuals?

Two Jews, Three Opinions, One Heart Nov 18, 2019

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Sometimes, what isn't said is more provoking than what is said. This week, Rabbi Jacobs brings a curiosity about what the Torah doesn't tell us about Sarah's death, namely the relationship between Isaac and Ishmael, and how their moment of unity in grief can remind us to push our differences aside and come together as one.

And You Shall Love... Nov 11, 2019

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What can the akeidah (binding of Isaac) teach us about loving God and loving one another? In this week's Torah portion, Vayeira, Rabbi Jacobs explores the deeper meaning behind this challenging text and how it can test us, much like Abraham himself was tested, to love all of God's creations authentically and deeply.

Dancing With Our Tradition Nov 04, 2019

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This week, Rabbi Rick Jacobs recounts his experience studying dance while in Rabbinical School, how partaking in an interpretive dance about Abraham, Sarah and Hagar challenged him theologically and artistically. He challenges us to think how we, too, can appreciate the art of dance to tell the Jewish story.

Fruit of the Vine Oct 28, 2019

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In Judaism, it's common to perform ritual and celebrate festivals with a glass of wine, but how do we do so while honoring those in recovery and their loved ones? This week, Rabbi Rick Jacobs talks about Parashat Noach and how Noah's troubled relationship with alcohol can shed light on how we partner ritual and wine Jewishly and responsibly. Find us on social media to share your thoughts: ReformJudaism.org: @ReformJudaism Rabbi Rick Jacobs: @URJPresident Union for Reform Judaism: @URJorg

Creation and Co-Existence, with Special Guest David Broza Oct 20, 2019

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What's your creative process? How do you begin? This week, Rabbi Rick Jacobs discusses Parashat B'reishit, which is all about Creation and the very beginning of everything. In his conversation with special guest, musician, artist and activist David Broza, David shares how to navigate chaos and focus on what is good and what can ultimately become good, if we are willing to step up and create it. Our episode ends with David serenading us with just that message. Want to hear more from David Broza? Visit the ReformJudaism.org blog for our exclusive interview with him. Be sure to visit his website and follow him on Twitter @DavidBroza.

Within These Three Walls Oct 13, 2019

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This week is Chol HaMo-eid Sukkot, the six days between the festival of Sukkot and Simchat Torah. Join us as Rabbi Rick Jacobs discusses the importance of recognizing how the vulnerability of the temporary structure we create each year connects with our greater obligations to the world around us.

Do What We Can Oct 07, 2019

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This week with Yom Kippur we are continuing the theme of forgiveness. Rabbi Rick Jacobs revisits the story of Jonah and talks about how we must do what we can to create and support compassion.

Moving On And Letting Go Sep 29, 2019

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It's that time of year, between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, where we are celebrating the New Year and contemplating our previous actions, while thinking about what comes next. Is there someone or something from this past year that just seems impossible to forgive? This week Rabbi Rick Jacobs talks about forgiveness and the burden of keeping our grievances alive.