Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the nativity of Moses in Parashat Shemot. Delving into the dramatic birth story of the Jewish people’s greatest leader, we uncover parallels with other ancient “savior” narratives, includoing a home bathed in light, three wise men, astologers reading the stars, danger, murder, flight and return of the hero. The birth story of Moses clearly mirrors other “savior” narratives, including those of Abraham and Jesus, highlighting its broader cultural significance. Why does this pivotal tale seem isolated within the larger Exodus narrative? We discuss the tension between hero worship and the emphasis on collective redemption… all while pondering the significance of what’s left unsaid in the Torah’s account. Discover how this foundational story sets the stage for the epic journey of the Israelites from slavery to freedom.

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/617755

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/01/16/the-nativity-of-moses/

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iJQldtucNxU

This week on Madlik, we're diving into a fascinating topic that's close to my heart - grandparenting in Jewish tradition. Our discussion centers around the iconic blessing Jacob gives to his grandsons Ephraim and Manasseh in Parashat Vayechi.

I'm excited to share some insights I've never noticed before about this pivotal moment. We'll explore how Jacob essentially adopts his grandsons, saying "they shall be mine," and what this reveals about intergenerational relationships in our tradition.

We'll also look at how this blessing became so central in Jewish practice, being recited every Friday night to bless our children. I was struck by how much depth there is to unpack here about the unique role grandparents can play.

As always, Rabbi Adam Mintz joins me for this illuminating conversation. And in a bit of perfect timing, he had some exciting personal news to share related to our topic!

I hope you'll tune in for this meaningful discussion on the power of grandparenting to shape Jewish identity and values across generations. The insights we uncovered really made me see this familiar blessing in a new light.

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/615769

Transcript on episode webpage: https://wordpress.com/post/madlik.com/5667 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NDz8du4I_GM 

This week on Madlik, we’re exploring how Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers offers profound insights for our own lives. At a time when many of us make resolutions and fresh starts, this episode couldn’t be more timely.

We’ll examine how Joseph and his brothers navigate the complex dynamics of forgiveness, rehabilitation, and moving from a paradigm of grievance and victimhood to challenge and opportunity… Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz discuss the psychological aspects of sin and redemption, drawing parallels to our own experiences with failure and the challenge of moving forward.

We’ll also touch on the fascinating concept of “making lemonade from lemons” and its American/Jewish roots and the contribution of Julius Rosenwald and the Tuskegee Institute.

Whether you’re grappling with personal setbacks or seeking inspiration for the year ahead, this episode offers valuable insights on turning adversity into opportunity and embracing a narrative of ambition and success.

Join us for another thought-provoking discussion that bridges ancient wisdom with modern life. Remember, whatever your resolutions may be, stumbling once or twice doesn’t define you – it’s how you harness those moments that truly matters.

Shabbat Shalom and Happy New Year

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/614569

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2025/01/03/making-lemonade-from-lemons/ 

View episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/WE3Jd7otrCk

This Shabbat Hanukah Madlik episode explores the intriguing parallels between John Lennon's iconic song "Imagine" and traditional Jewish concepts. Delving into the Shabbat zemirot "Ma Yedidut," Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz uncover surprising connections between Lennon's utopian vision and Judaism's aspirational views of Shabbat and the World to Come. The discussion challenges the notion that Judaism is solely particularistic, revealing its universal and redemptive aspects while also recognizing the conecpt of preferential love. How does the Jewish tradition balance particularism with universalism? Discover the unexpected interplay between modern secular ideals and ancient Jewish wisdom.

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/613636

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/27/imagine-and-the-jews/ 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u6xn990AcCw

This week on Madlik, we’re diving into Parashat Vayeshev and exploring the Joseph story through a unique lens. Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we unpack this pivotal narrative that bridges Genesis and Exodus.

We’ll be taking a hard look at the uncomfortable truth at the heart of this parasha: human trafficking. It’s not just about Joseph in Egypt – we’re talking about the profound implications of ethnic groups selling their own people into slavery.

We’ll also examine how this story fits into the broader context of biblical literature. Is it a court legend? Wisdom literature? Or something entirely different?

Plus, we’ll discuss how the sale of Joseph has echoed through Jewish tradition, from Yom Kippur liturgy to modern-day rituals. It’s an approach that might break the oppressor/oppressed lense used by so many today.

Sefaria Source Sheet: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/612024 

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/19/joseph-slave-trade/

Watch it on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QkhOPS54nfc 

From the first chapters of Genesis, when Adam named the animals, naming in the Biblical narrative is a powerful tool which defines destiny. This process reaches a climax with the re-naming of Jacob and the birth of Israel. Although "Israel" is normally translated as "struggling with God" we explore other meanings that align more powerfully with the metamorphosis that Yaakov experiences. Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the nuances of this name Israel, that until today defines and inspires the Jewish People and their land.

Sefaria source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/610333

Transcript: https://madlik.com/2024/12/13/what-israel-means/ 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xQt2m7poFCE 

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz for another week of Madlik Disruptive Torah. We explore the biblical narratives surrounding Jacob and Abraham, the sanctity of places in the Ancient Near East and Jewish tradition, and the ongoing relevance of these themes in contemporary discussions about Jerusalem. The conversation highlights the deep connections between history, identity, and spirituality, emphasizing the importance of understanding the layers of meaning associated with sacred sites.

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/608262

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/12/05/scaling-the-temple-mount/ 

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/RHv0rHLtqXs 

Are we defined by our names or by the stories we tell? We explore Parashat Toldot, diving into the intricate relationships between the Philistines and ancient Israelites "up until today." Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz in a conversation that highlights the melting pot of cultures in ancient Israel. We reveal that the Philistines, like the Hittites and Hebrews, were newcomers to the land and for the most part contributed culturally and integrated well. When friction arose, they willingly separated and made agreements that showcased mutual recognition and trust. In a week that the 2024 cease fire between Israel and Lebanon is consummated and we in the US celebrate Thanksgiving we wonder what lessens from the past we can take to guide us in these challenging times.

Check out the Sefaria Source sheet here: https://www.sefaria.org/sheets/606744 

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/28/the-philistinians-and-the-israelites/ 

Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cbPen_DRgmo 

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz discussing the weekly Torah portion. What happens when ancient narratives of trauma echo through generations? This episode of "Madlik Disruptive Torah" delves into the parsha Chayei Sara, exploring the post-traumatic impact of the attempted sacrifice of Isaac. Through the lens of Jewish, Islamic and contemporary literature, we examine the emotional and familial fallout experienced by Abraham, Sarah, Hagar, Isaac, and Ishmael. They pose intriguing questions: Did Abraham and Sarah live apart after the Akedah? Where did Isaac go after the attempted sacrifice by his father and how did he relate to his half-brother Ishmael and step-mother Hagar? How did Isaac's near-sacrifice shape his life? The discussion weaves historical context with contemporary reflections, drawing parallels to modern-day conflicts and shared traumas.

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/605334 

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/21/the-day-after/

View on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jf-oCqMqbco 

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz as we explore the intriguing theological debate where Abraham challenges God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah. Unlike typical moral or ethical arguments, Abraham's stance is deeply rooted in his understanding of God's nature. He questions whether it would be Godlike to act in a manner that contradicts his perception of the divine. Profaning God's name is a major them in the Torah but in this first instance, it is God Himself who is accused of the crime. Come and learn!

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/603675 

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/14/god-forbid/ 

Youtube video: https://youtu.be/RMPRRuil5lY 

Join Geoffrey Stern and Rabbi Adam Mintz recorded in [location] on [date]. What does it mean to leave everything behind and embark on a journey of faith? This episode of "Madlik" delves into the Torah portion Lech Lecha, exploring Abraham's radical departure from his homeland and the birth of monotheism.

- Discover how Abraham's journey is not just a physical one but a profound internal quest for meaning and connection.

- Examine the midrashic interpretations that paint Abraham as a rebel, challenging the status quo and seeking a universal God.

- Consider the contemporary relevance of Abraham's story in a world where chaos and division often prevail.

Explore the philosophical and spiritual dimensions of Abraham's journey... and ponder what it means for us today.

For more insights, see the Sefaria Source Sheet (link below) and access the episode transcript. Recorded live on Clubhouse, this discussion invites you to reflect on the enduring question: What do we find when we truly leave everything behind?

Sefaria Source Sheet: www.sefaria.org/sheets/602012 

Transcript on episode web page: https://madlik.com/2024/11/07/radical-disruption-and-the-birth-of-faith/ 

Video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ud7D7ZWMnMI