Rabbi Jim Egolf's Podcast http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=260879303 Podcast of Sermons, Readings and Jewish Resources from Rabbi Jim Egolf Mon, 28 Jul 2008 14:21:50 +0000 http://podbean.com/?v=3.2 en ©Rabbi Jim Egolf 2003-2006 Religion 1440 judaism,rabbi,egolf,sermon,torah,devar,drash,beth david Rabbi Jim Egolf's Podcast Podcast of Sermons and Readings by Rabbi Jim Egolf Rabbi Jim Egolf Rabbi Jim Egolf ravjim@aol.com No No http://rabbijim.podbean.com/wp-content/blogs/13350/uploads/stockheadshot.jpg Rabbi Jim Egolf's Podcast http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=260879303 144 144 http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?id=260879303 Rabbi Jim At Camp http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/27/rabbi-jim-at-camp/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/27/rabbi-jim-at-camp/#comments Mon, 28 Jul 2008 03:11:26 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/27/rabbi-jim-at-camp/ Hi, and thank you for listening this week! The Union for Reform Judaism has a wonderful program that started decades ago called Reform Jewish Summer Camp. URJ Camps are places that compliment our youth’s growth in understanding themselves, their Jewish identities and these places help our kids to encounter some of the biggest questions of life in a safe place. Where else can a kid go and have not one or two, but six different rabbis, two cantors and three educators teach them; while having all the other activities and fun found at summer camp? I can’t describe the enthusiasm, so I’ll let you listen to a few songs from song sessions with 500+ campers and share moments of ruach (spirit!) in upcoming shows. Enjoy!

URJ Camps

Camp Video 


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/27/rabbi-jim-at-camp/feed/ Hi, and thank you for listening this week! The Union for Reform Judaism has a wonderful program that started decades ago called Reform Jewish ... Hi, and thank you for listening this week! The Union for Reform Judaism has a wonderful program that started decades ago called Reform Jewish Summer Camp. URJ Camps are places that compliment our youth's growth in understanding themselves, their Jewish identities and these places help our kids to encounter some of the biggest questions of life in a safe place. Where else can a kid go and have not one or two, but six different rabbis, two cantors and three educators teach them; while having all the other activities and fun found at summer camp? I can't describe the enthusiasm, so I'll let you listen to a few songs from song sessions with 500+ campers and share moments of ruach (spirit!) in upcoming shows. Enjoy! URJ Camps Camp Video Download Standard Podcasts camp, urj Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 10:00 Pinchas 5768-Be Zealous The Right Way http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/21/pinchas-5768-be-zealous-the-right-way/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/21/pinchas-5768-be-zealous-the-right-way/#comments Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:57:24 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/21/pinchas-5768-be-zealous-the-right-way/ When we see someone act in a zealous way, chances are they think they are doing something divine. What does it mean to be zealous, and what happens when God does (or maybe doesn’t) speak to us? Acting on God’s command should make any of us nervous, however Moses would often question God’s decree and often questioned God. What should demand our zeal? Please listen and consider…

God speaks through Bush?

It’s not funny….


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/21/pinchas-5768-be-zealous-the-right-way/feed/ When we see someone act in a zealous way, chances are they think they are doing something divine. What does it mean to be ... When we see someone act in a zealous way, chances are they think they are doing something divine. What does it mean to be zealous, and what happens when God does (or maybe doesn't) speak to us? Acting on God's command should make any of us nervous, however Moses would often question God's decree and often questioned God. What should demand our zeal? Please listen and consider... God speaks through Bush? It's not funny.... Download Standard Podcasts pinchas Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 14:09 Balak, Curses, Blessings, Jesse and You http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/12/balak-curses-blessings-jesse-and-you/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/12/balak-curses-blessings-jesse-and-you/#comments Sun, 13 Jul 2008 01:00:03 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com?p=276968 Balak, King of Moav hires Balam to curse Israel, but all Balam can do is bless Balak’s nemesis. While this is the story in our Torah portion, I think we see the opposite today. In our world, we seem to have people who should be blessing certain social and political achievements, but in a tragic irony, they curse. This situation also begs the question, how do we pass on leadership and responsibility from one generation to the next. Often we think it is about the next generation being responsible, but the actions of Jesse Jackson point to the fact that the older generation also gets in the way.

Jesse is sorry…


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/12/balak-curses-blessings-jesse-and-you/feed/ Balak, King of Moav hires Balam to curse Israel, but all Balam can do is bless Balak's nemesis. While this is the story in ... Balak, King of Moav hires Balam to curse Israel, but all Balam can do is bless Balak's nemesis. While this is the story in our Torah portion, I think we see the opposite today. In our world, we seem to have people who should be blessing certain social and political achievements, but in a tragic irony, they curse. This situation also begs the question, how do we pass on leadership and responsibility from one generation to the next. Often we think it is about the next generation being responsible, but the actions of Jesse Jackson point to the fact that the older generation also gets in the way. Jesse is sorry... Download Standard Podcasts jesse jackson, balak Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 10:56 Be a patriot, but don’t expect a thank you http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/06/be-a-patriot-but-dont-expect-a-thank-you/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/06/be-a-patriot-but-dont-expect-a-thank-you/#comments Sun, 06 Jul 2008 05:17:31 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/06/be-a-patriot-but-dont-expect-a-thank-you/ How do we honor patriots? Good question given the recent past where veterans have been left to struggle to survive battle wounds, and the bureaucracy of trying to obtain health care. Unfortunately, regardless of how some officials claim to honor the military and patriotism, we have a checkered past which brings us to a Jewish patriot who helped save our country and died with only a questionable “Thank You.”

Solomon’s Business

Washington’s letter

The music you hear on this podcast is available at Magnatune.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/06/be-a-patriot-but-dont-expect-a-thank-you/feed/ How do we honor patriots? Good question given the recent past where veterans have been left to struggle to survive battle wounds, and the ... How do we honor patriots? Good question given the recent past where veterans have been left to struggle to survive battle wounds, and the bureaucracy of trying to obtain health care. Unfortunately, regardless of how some officials claim to honor the military and patriotism, we have a checkered past which brings us to a Jewish patriot who helped save our country and died with only a questionable "Thank You." Solomon's Business Washington's letter The music you hear on this podcast is available at Magnatune.Download Standard Podcasts hayim solomon Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 10:20 Korach 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/01/korach-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/01/korach-5768/#comments Tue, 01 Jul 2008 04:48:11 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/01/korach-5768/ Is it just a bad sense of timing, or does God really have a sense of humor? The ‘conservative’ leaders of the Anglican Church met in Jerusalem this past week, and boy, were they surprised! To find out how and why please continue to listen. BTW, THANK YOU! we hit 5,000 listens this week! I am truly grateful for your interest in this podcast! Shalom.

BBC Podcast (go to time index 19:10)

Mother’s Day

Father’s day

I Have A Dream…


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/07/01/korach-5768/feed/ Is it just a bad sense of timing, or does God really have a sense of humor? The 'conservative' leaders of the Anglican Church ... Is it just a bad sense of timing, or does God really have a sense of humor? The 'conservative' leaders of the Anglican Church met in Jerusalem this past week, and boy, were they surprised! To find out how and why please continue to listen. BTW, THANK YOU! we hit 5,000 listens this week! I am truly grateful for your interest in this podcast! Shalom. BBC Podcast (go to time index 19:10) Mother's Day Father's day I Have A Dream... Download Standard Podcasts korach Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 14:36 Shelach Lekha http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/21/shelach-lekha/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/21/shelach-lekha/#comments Sun, 22 Jun 2008 02:39:42 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com?p=261612 This is one of the more interesting Torah portions. Why is it that the theology in the Torah portion doesn’t work and what is the fear that we all face when striving to make a difference? To quote Caleb, “Let us by all means go up, and shall gain possession of it, for we shall surely overcome it.” What are we trying to overcome today?

Hagee’s Apology


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/21/shelach-lekha/feed/ This is one of the more interesting Torah portions. Why is it that the theology in the Torah portion doesn't work and what is ... This is one of the more interesting Torah portions. Why is it that the theology in the Torah portion doesn't work and what is the fear that we all face when striving to make a difference? To quote Caleb, "Let us by all means go up, and shall gain possession of it, for we shall surely overcome it." What are we trying to overcome today? Hagee's ApologyDownload Standard Podcasts shelach Rabbi Jim Egolf No No B’ha-alotkha 5768 - Dealing With the Riffraff http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/15/bha-alotkha-5768-dealing-with-the-riffraff/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/15/bha-alotkha-5768-dealing-with-the-riffraff/#comments Mon, 16 Jun 2008 03:11:08 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/15/bha-alotkha-5768-dealing-with-the-riffraff/ There is a great story from the Hasidic Anthology that when the Satan (the one envisioned by Jews) saw that Hasidim were so successful, the Satan became worried. What did he do? He sent some of his own followers to become Hasidim so that this movement of piety would not become so successful as to put the Satan out of business. How do we deal with the riffraff and the naysayers in our midst? What happens when part of that negativity is in ourselves? I hope you listen and discover one way to try and confront the difficult voices all of us must face in life.

Music you hear is from Magnatune and is available for download or purchase.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/15/bha-alotkha-5768-dealing-with-the-riffraff/feed/ There is a great story from the Hasidic Anthology that when the Satan (the one envisioned by Jews) saw that Hasidim were so successful, the ... There is a great story from the Hasidic Anthology that when the Satan (the one envisioned by Jews) saw that Hasidim were so successful, the Satan became worried. What did he do? He sent some of his own followers to become Hasidim so that this movement of piety would not become so successful as to put the Satan out of business. How do we deal with the riffraff and the naysayers in our midst? What happens when part of that negativity is in ourselves? I hope you listen and discover one way to try and confront the difficult voices all of us must face in life. Music you hear is from Magnatune and is available for download or purchase.Download Standard Podcasts riffraff Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 14:51 Naso 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/09/naso-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/09/naso-5768/#comments Tue, 10 Jun 2008 01:35:55 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/09/naso-5768/ How do we struggle with belief and proof?  What happens when God is not just a thought, but an angel of God shows up…could one possibly not believe after such an event?  According to the Haftara for Naso, it could happen.  The problem with belief is not confined to modern times, even in ancient days, people doubted God or God’s messengers, even when these messengers appeared to them.  This brings us the story from Judges Chapter 13 where an angel appears and announces the birth of the Judge, Samson.  What might we learn from this story?  Listen and think.

Music on this podcast is available via CD or download from Magnatune.com and features the music of Suzanne Teng.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/09/naso-5768/feed/ How do we struggle with belief and proof?  What happens when God is not just a thought, but an angel of God shows up...could one ... How do we struggle with belief and proof?  What happens when God is not just a thought, but an angel of God shows up...could one possibly not believe after such an event?  According to the Haftara for Naso, it could happen.  The problem with belief is not confined to modern times, even in ancient days, people doubted God or God's messengers, even when these messengers appeared to them.  This brings us the story from Judges Chapter 13 where an angel appears and announces the birth of the Judge, Samson.  What might we learn from this story?  Listen and think. Music on this podcast is available via CD or download from Magnatune.com and features the music of Suzanne Teng.Download Standard Podcasts naso Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 7:33 NPR: Speaking Of Faith - Heschel http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/08/npr-speaking-of-faith-heschel/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/08/npr-speaking-of-faith-heschel/#comments Sun, 08 Jun 2008 11:51:16 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/08/npr-speaking-of-faith-heschel/ Greetings, I invite you to explore and listen to this wonderful program about the modern prophet Abraham Joshua Heschel from the NPR program Speaking of Faith.

SOF: Heschel

]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/08/npr-speaking-of-faith-heschel/feed/ Bemidbar 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/06/bemidbar-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/06/bemidbar-5768/#comments Fri, 06 Jun 2008 04:06:47 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/06/bemidbar-5768/ So where do the names of Torah portions and books come from and why don’t they translate into the English? This and other questions will get some attention this week as we look at the first Torah portion of the fourth book of the Torah, in Hebrew, Bemidbar. Shavuah Tov!

Music you hear is by the group Ya Elah and the artist Suzanne Teng and can be found, ordered and downloaded from Magnatune.com.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/06/06/bemidbar-5768/feed/ So where do the names of Torah portions and books come from and why don't they translate into the English? This and other questions ... So where do the names of Torah portions and books come from and why don't they translate into the English? This and other questions will get some attention this week as we look at the first Torah portion of the fourth book of the Torah, in Hebrew, Bemidbar. Shavuah Tov! Music you hear is by the group Ya Elah and the artist Suzanne Teng and can be found, ordered and downloaded from Magnatune.com.Download Standard Podcasts bemidbar Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 8:53 B’khu-ko-tie 5768 - Writing A Prayer For Hagee http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/23/bkhu-ko-tie-5768-writing-a-prayer-for-hagee/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/23/bkhu-ko-tie-5768-writing-a-prayer-for-hagee/#comments Sat, 24 May 2008 01:54:58 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/23/bkhu-ko-tie-5768-writing-a-prayer-for-hagee/ I love fountain pens! In fact this week I am very jazzed since the haftara (reading from prophets for the week) mentions pens and writing instruments, but you might not want to see what they wrote. Jeremiah speaks of inscribing the sins of Judah on the stone Horns of the Altar, which would have to be done with a metal instrument. This was considered a permanent and sacred declaration in ancient times, unfortunately, we have certain pastors today who don’t understand that their words are no less public or permanent. Hagee’s recent rants seem to confuse us all, so I’d ask you to join me in my prayers for him and all of us this week. If there was a prayer for the Czar…there has to be one for Hagee.

Portrayal of Altar in Jerusalem by Francesco Hayez

Hagee’s Speech

McCain’s criticism of Hagee Hagee’s retraction of McCain endorsement

Yoffie’s letter to Hagee


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/23/bkhu-ko-tie-5768-writing-a-prayer-for-hagee/feed/ I love fountain pens! In fact this week I am very jazzed since the haftara (reading from prophets for the week) mentions pens and ... I love fountain pens! In fact this week I am very jazzed since the haftara (reading from prophets for the week) mentions pens and writing instruments, but you might not want to see what they wrote. Jeremiah speaks of inscribing the sins of Judah on the stone Horns of the Altar, which would have to be done with a metal instrument. This was considered a permanent and sacred declaration in ancient times, unfortunately, we have certain pastors today who don't understand that their words are no less public or permanent. Hagee's recent rants seem to confuse us all, so I'd ask you to join me in my prayers for him and all of us this week. If there was a prayer for the Czar...there has to be one for Hagee. Portrayal of Altar in Jerusalem by Francesco Hayez Hagee's Speech McCain's criticism of Hagee Hagee's retraction of McCain endorsement Yoffie's letter to HageeDownload Standard Podcasts hagee hitler prayer Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 17:45 Behar - What Do We Learn From a Loaf of Bread? http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/16/behar-what-do-we-learn-from-a-loaf-of-bread/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/16/behar-what-do-we-learn-from-a-loaf-of-bread/#comments Sat, 17 May 2008 03:03:13 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/16/behar-what-do-we-learn-from-a-loaf-of-bread/ What do we learn from a loaf of bread? This weeks Torah portion gives us some unusual mitzvot to observe in the Land of Israel, but are they so strange? We are to treat the land as if it had feelings and could be harmed. Perhaps the Torah and rabbis were not so far off in a physical sense (land conservation and global warming). What about the metaphorical understanding of this passage? What do we learn when we extend concern to inanimate objects? Listen and find out.

The First Bat Mitzvah

The Sabbath - AJ Heschel

The music you hear on this podcast is by Suzanne Teng and available for download or by CD from Magnatune.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/16/behar-what-do-we-learn-from-a-loaf-of-bread/feed/ What do we learn from a loaf of bread? This weeks Torah portion gives us some unusual mitzvot to observe in the Land of ... What do we learn from a loaf of bread? This weeks Torah portion gives us some unusual mitzvot to observe in the Land of Israel, but are they so strange? We are to treat the land as if it had feelings and could be harmed. Perhaps the Torah and rabbis were not so far off in a physical sense (land conservation and global warming). What about the metaphorical understanding of this passage? What do we learn when we extend concern to inanimate objects? Listen and find out. The First Bat Mitzvah The Sabbath - AJ Heschel The music you hear on this podcast is by Suzanne Teng and available for download or by CD from Magnatune.Download Standard Podcasts behar Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 9:49 Meaning to Say - Emor 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/09/meaning-to-say-emor-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/09/meaning-to-say-emor-5768/#comments Sat, 10 May 2008 02:05:23 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/09/meaning-to-say-emor-5768/ This week’s Torah portion is a list of qualifications for the priests and about time.  Now in the middle of an election cycle, we seem to focus on the perfection of our choices and the time when things enter the media.  Are there certain things that really damage and taint a leader?  Perhaps there needs to be one and it found its way into our neighborhood as of late.  This devar was delivered at our Kehilah of Lower Merion meeting this past Monday.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/05/09/meaning-to-say-emor-5768/feed/ This week's Torah portion is a list of qualifications for the priests and about time.  Now in the middle of an election cycle, we seem ... This week's Torah portion is a list of qualifications for the priests and about time.  Now in the middle of an election cycle, we seem to focus on the perfection of our choices and the time when things enter the media.  Are there certain things that really damage and taint a leader?  Perhaps there needs to be one and it found its way into our neighborhood as of late.  This devar was delivered at our Kehilah of Lower Merion meeting this past Monday.Download Standard Podcasts emor 5768 Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 8:52 Rabbi Lev on the Bima http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/30/rabbi-lev-on-the-bima/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/30/rabbi-lev-on-the-bima/#comments Thu, 01 May 2008 03:46:53 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/30/rabbi-lev-on-the-bima/ Greetings!  We thought we had lost this recording due to technical glitches, but we found it!  So what does an interfaith family add to a synagogue beyond being a member?  How have attitudes changed over time and whither the Jewish community today on this ever increasingly important issue?  Listen and find out.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/30/rabbi-lev-on-the-bima/feed/ Greetings!  We thought we had lost this recording due to technical glitches, but we found it!  So what does an interfaith family add to a ... Greetings!  We thought we had lost this recording due to technical glitches, but we found it!  So what does an interfaith family add to a synagogue beyond being a member?  How have attitudes changed over time and whither the Jewish community today on this ever increasingly important issue?  Listen and find out.Download Standard Podcasts interfaith Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 22:37 When is Wright, Right? - Achrei Mot 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/19/when-is-wright-right-achrei-mot-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/19/when-is-wright-right-achrei-mot-5768/#comments Sat, 19 Apr 2008 04:12:51 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/19/when-is-wright-right/ This week I am going to get something off my chest about the political/religious discussion that erupted in the past few weeks. While I don’t agree with Rev. Wright’s comments, I think we have to look at his charge as a minister and at the connection between a politician (and for that matter ALL politicians) and their spiritual leaders. Was Wright right? Hmmm…. Even if you don’t agree with him, he was carrying out his charge to his community. However, this episode brings up bigger issues about religion, culture and the homogenization we think translates into the ‘right’ answers in our society. Are they the right answers or the Wright answers and are the so different?

Trinity United Church of Chirst

The United Church of Christ Contract

The Reform Responsa - Freedom of the Pulpit

WHYY Radio Times Interview - (always) Worth a listen

News and Notes on Wright 


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/19/when-is-wright-right-achrei-mot-5768/feed/ This week I am going to get something off my chest about the political/religious discussion that erupted in the past few weeks. While I ... This week I am going to get something off my chest about the political/religious discussion that erupted in the past few weeks. While I don't agree with Rev. Wright's comments, I think we have to look at his charge as a minister and at the connection between a politician (and for that matter ALL politicians) and their spiritual leaders. Was Wright right? Hmmm.... Even if you don't agree with him, he was carrying out his charge to his community. However, this episode brings up bigger issues about religion, culture and the homogenization we think translates into the 'right' answers in our society. Are they the right answers or the Wright answers and are the so different? Trinity United Church of Chirst The United Church of Christ Contract The Reform Responsa - Freedom of the Pulpit WHYY Radio Times Interview - (always) Worth a listen News and Notes on Wright Download Standard Podcasts politics, obama, wright Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 15:34 An Interview With Rabbi Lev Baesh http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/12/an-interview-with-rabbi-lev-baesh/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/12/an-interview-with-rabbi-lev-baesh/#comments Sat, 12 Apr 2008 18:22:53 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/12/finding-common-ground-an-interview-with-rabbi-lev-baesh/ We had a visitor at Beth David this week from Rabbi Lev Baesh.

Rabbi Baesh is the rabbi for Interfaithfamily.com, a non-profit organization that helps families find their way into the Jewish world and the interfaith world through information, resources and training Jewish leaders to understand the issues all synagogues and Jewish institutions face in meshing people from different faith backgrounds. This is a wonderful interview about the resources and people who are trying to create paths to a Jewish involvement and life. I hope you enjoy.

Music you hear on this podcast is by Trip Wamsley and Suzzanne Teng and is available through download or CD from Magnatune.com.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/12/an-interview-with-rabbi-lev-baesh/feed/ We had a visitor at Beth David this week from Rabbi Lev Baesh. Rabbi Baesh is the rabbi for Interfaithfamily.com, a non-profit organization that helps families ... We had a visitor at Beth David this week from Rabbi Lev Baesh. Rabbi Baesh is the rabbi for Interfaithfamily.com, a non-profit organization that helps families find their way into the Jewish world and the interfaith world through information, resources and training Jewish leaders to understand the issues all synagogues and Jewish institutions face in meshing people from different faith backgrounds. This is a wonderful interview about the resources and people who are trying to create paths to a Jewish involvement and life. I hope you enjoy. Music you hear on this podcast is by Trip Wamsley and Suzzanne Teng and is available through download or CD from Magnatune.com.Download Standard Podcasts interfaith family welcoming Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 17:52 Skin Deep…? Tazriah 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/07/skin-deep-tazriah-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/07/skin-deep-tazriah-5768/#comments Mon, 07 Apr 2008 04:05:00 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/07/skin-deep-tazriah-5768/ Ahhh…leprosy, of all the Torah portions that might challenge a darshan (Hebrew for preacher), you have to love this one. I have spoken about this topic every year for over a decade, and this week we need to look at it in a new light. Many of the challenges we face now carry leprosy, or at least a hint of it.

NPR: News and Notes

Music you hear on this podcast is from Magnatune and features the work of the group Panacea.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/04/07/skin-deep-tazriah-5768/feed/ Ahhh...leprosy, of all the Torah portions that might challenge a darshan (Hebrew for preacher), you have to love this one. I have spoken about ... Ahhh...leprosy, of all the Torah portions that might challenge a darshan (Hebrew for preacher), you have to love this one. I have spoken about this topic every year for over a decade, and this week we need to look at it in a new light. Many of the challenges we face now carry leprosy, or at least a hint of it. NPR: News and Notes Music you hear on this podcast is from Magnatune and features the work of the group Panacea.Download Standard Podcasts tazriah 5768 racism Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 11:18 Vayikrah 5768 (Archive sermon) http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/27/vayikrah-5768-archive-sermon/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/27/vayikrah-5768-archive-sermon/#comments Fri, 28 Mar 2008 02:54:15 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/27/vayikrah-5768-archive-sermon/ Shalom and welcome!

First, this podcast has a live recording of me playing guitar and singing Halleluyah at a Tot Shabbat Service during our most recent Synaplex. It is a less than perfect recording (hey, it’s live) and I was sick at the time, but I hope you enjoy this short piece of opening music. This week there is an archive sermon from a few years ago. When the Second Temple was destroyed in the year 70 CE, the Jewish community was thrown into theological quandary. The Temple was the focal point of Jewish religious observance. Out of this moment the synagogue gained primacy, and introduced a different way of looking at how we would survive in the future. What was the secret? For that you’ll need to listen.

The other music you hear this week is by Suzanne Teng and can be found and purchased at Magnatune.com.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/27/vayikrah-5768-archive-sermon/feed/ Shalom and welcome! First, this podcast has a live recording of me playing guitar and singing Halleluyah at a Tot Shabbat Service during our most recent ... Shalom and welcome! First, this podcast has a live recording of me playing guitar and singing Halleluyah at a Tot Shabbat Service during our most recent Synaplex. It is a less than perfect recording (hey, it's live) and I was sick at the time, but I hope you enjoy this short piece of opening music. This week there is an archive sermon from a few years ago. When the Second Temple was destroyed in the year 70 CE, the Jewish community was thrown into theological quandary. The Temple was the focal point of Jewish religious observance. Out of this moment the synagogue gained primacy, and introduced a different way of looking at how we would survive in the future. What was the secret? For that you'll need to listen. The other music you hear this week is by Suzanne Teng and can be found and purchased at Magnatune.com.Download Standard Podcasts vayikrah, leviticus Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 15:51 Shabbat Zachor - Remember Amalek and Learn http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/15/shabbat-zachor-remember-amalek-and-learn/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/15/shabbat-zachor-remember-amalek-and-learn/#comments Sat, 15 Mar 2008 04:33:26 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/15/shabbat-zachor-remember-amalek-and-learn/ Shabbat Zachor is one of a handful of Shabbatot where the Torah is set up to reinforce the message of a holiday. This Shabbat is meant to remind us of why Haman is about to lose yet again, (though some think this might be his year ;-) ). In looking at the bad guys we remember, we can also learn moral lessons for ourselves, specifically regarding how we deal with enemies. We might even find that God forgives those who we might not.

Shabbat Shalom

Saul 

Amalek 

Agag 

Purim 


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/03/15/shabbat-zachor-remember-amalek-and-learn/feed/ Shabbat Zachor is one of a handful of Shabbatot where the Torah is set up to reinforce the message of a holiday. This ... Shabbat Zachor is one of a handful of Shabbatot where the Torah is set up to reinforce the message of a holiday. This Shabbat is meant to remind us of why Haman is about to lose yet again, (though some think this might be his year ;-) ). In looking at the bad guys we remember, we can also learn moral lessons for ourselves, specifically regarding how we deal with enemies. We might even find that God forgives those who we might not. Shabbat Shalom Saul  Amalek  Agag  Purim Download Standard Podcasts shabbat zachor 5768 Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 15:14 Va’Yakheil 5768 - This Community http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/29/vayakheil-5768-this-community/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/29/vayakheil-5768-this-community/#comments Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:28:31 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/29/vayakheil-5768-this-community/ This week’s Torah portion is about Moses gathering the community to assemble the tabernacle.  As I thought about this image, I also thought about the image of this podcast and the people who have helped me with advice, creative ideas, and insights.  So this week’s program is about the community of you and I think you will be surprised to find that you are all over the map….literally.

Magnatune.com

Paul Douglas Boyer’s show


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/29/vayakheil-5768-this-community/feed/ This week's Torah portion is about Moses gathering the community to assemble the tabernacle.  As I thought about this image, I also thought about the ... This week's Torah portion is about Moses gathering the community to assemble the tabernacle.  As I thought about this image, I also thought about the image of this podcast and the people who have helped me with advice, creative ideas, and insights.  So this week's program is about the community of you and I think you will be surprised to find that you are all over the map....literally. Magnatune.com Paul Douglas Boyer's showDownload Standard Podcasts vayakheil 5768 Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 8:01 Terumah, why do we give our vote? http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/22/terumah-why-do-we-give-our-vote/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/22/terumah-why-do-we-give-our-vote/#comments Fri, 22 Feb 2008 20:01:49 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/22/terumah-who-do-we-freely-give-out-vote-to/ How do we look for a candidate? Who should we choose? While this is not meant to endorse anyone, it is meant to endorse an idea and a vision. In Israel the national anthem is “Hatikvah” literally translated, “the hope.” Perhaps “the hope” is how we need to look for our leaders. This is a sermon from a few weeks ago right after a ‘Super’ week.

“And they haven’t” Speech

“Yes we can!” Speech

Music heard on this podcast is available for purchase from Magnatune.com.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/22/terumah-why-do-we-give-our-vote/feed/ How do we look for a candidate? Who should we choose? While this is not meant to endorse anyone, it is meant to ... How do we look for a candidate? Who should we choose? While this is not meant to endorse anyone, it is meant to endorse an idea and a vision. In Israel the national anthem is "Hatikvah" literally translated, "the hope." Perhaps "the hope" is how we need to look for our leaders. This is a sermon from a few weeks ago right after a 'Super' week. "And they haven't" Speech "Yes we can!" Speech Music heard on this podcast is available for purchase from Magnatune.com.Download Standard Podcasts hopeful leaders Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 15:35 Why You Might Not See ET at the Olympics http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/14/why-you-might-not-see-et-at-the-olympics/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/14/why-you-might-not-see-et-at-the-olympics/#comments Fri, 15 Feb 2008 02:44:51 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/14/why-you-might-not-see-et-at-the-olympics/ This week Steven Spielberg decided to quite the Beijing Olympics. His attempts to influence other parts of China’s foreign policy failed and he did something which the Chinese government is scared anyone can do, he gave public voice to protest over Darfur. In the criticism of his actions I saw the moral equivocation that is so common today, but it doesn’t hold water. Additionally I saw Mr. Spielberg look to his roots and a moral charge from Pirkei Avot.

UK Times Online Article

Music you hear on this podcast is available at Magnatune.com and created by the artist Trip Warmsley.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/14/why-you-might-not-see-et-at-the-olympics/feed/ This week Steven Spielberg decided to quite the Beijing Olympics. His attempts to influence other parts of China's foreign policy failed and he did ... This week Steven Spielberg decided to quite the Beijing Olympics. His attempts to influence other parts of China's foreign policy failed and he did something which the Chinese government is scared anyone can do, he gave public voice to protest over Darfur. In the criticism of his actions I saw the moral equivocation that is so common today, but it doesn't hold water. Additionally I saw Mr. Spielberg look to his roots and a moral charge from Pirkei Avot. UK Times Online Article Music you hear on this podcast is available at Magnatune.com and created by the artist Trip Warmsley.Download Standard Podcasts olympics Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 5:28 Mishpatim 5767 (Archive) - Why Our Paths Are As Important As Our Goal http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/04/mishpatim-5767-archive-why-our-paths-are-as-important-as-our-goal/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/04/mishpatim-5767-archive-why-our-paths-are-as-important-as-our-goal/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2008 04:50:45 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/04/mishpatim-5767-archive-how-we-do-what-we-do-matters/ This week is an archive sermon, but it seems more than a little b’shert (Yiddish for apropos in this context). With Super Tuesday with us this sermon delves into what it means to be a thoughtful Reform Jew and why where one of our candidates announced their run for the office matters. Who in this great contest of democracy decided to announce a run for the White House from the Henry Ford Museum? Listen and learn.

Candidate Announces


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/02/04/mishpatim-5767-archive-why-our-paths-are-as-important-as-our-goal/feed/ This week is an archive sermon, but it seems more than a little b'shert (Yiddish for apropos in this context). With Super Tuesday with ... This week is an archive sermon, but it seems more than a little b'shert (Yiddish for apropos in this context). With Super Tuesday with us this sermon delves into what it means to be a thoughtful Reform Jew and why where one of our candidates announced their run for the office matters. Who in this great contest of democracy decided to announce a run for the White House from the Henry Ford Museum? Listen and learn. Candidate Announces Download Standard Podcasts mishpatim 5768 Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 17:21 Beshalach 5768, How Do We Value That Which Is Closest? http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/23/beshalach-5768-how-do-we-value-that-which-is-closest/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/23/beshalach-5768-how-do-we-value-that-which-is-closest/#comments Thu, 24 Jan 2008 03:50:25 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/23/beshalach-5768-how-do-we-value-that-which-is-closest/ This was our healing service week and we delved into the differences between healing according to our institutions and healing in our own souls.  What is the Jewish connection to healing and what is closest to all of us at taught in the Torah?  Listen and find out.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/23/beshalach-5768-how-do-we-value-that-which-is-closest/feed/ This was our healing service week and we delved into the differences between healing according to our institutions and healing in our own souls.  What ... This was our healing service week and we delved into the differences between healing according to our institutions and healing in our own souls.  What is the Jewish connection to healing and what is closest to all of us at taught in the Torah?  Listen and find out.Download Standard Podcasts beshlach Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 11:14 Hi, I Am Your New Siddur Mishkan Tefillah http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/12/hi-i-am-your-new-siddur-mishkan-tefillah/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/12/hi-i-am-your-new-siddur-mishkan-tefillah/#comments Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:26:02 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/12/hi-i-am-your-new-siddur-mishkan-tefillah/ We welcomed our new Siddur this week at Beth David. Mishkan Tefillah has been ‘in the works’ for several years, but its true evolution has occurred over the 150+ years of Reform Jewish history in this country. This sermon is told from the point of view of the Siddur coming to a new congregation, where it came from and what its purpose is for the congregation. What is involved in creating a Siddur and why would it change? Listen and discover.

1885 Pittsburgh Platform

1937 Columbus Platform

1976 San Francisco Platform

1999 Pittsburgh II Platform


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/12/hi-i-am-your-new-siddur-mishkan-tefillah/feed/ We welcomed our new Siddur this week at Beth David. Mishkan Tefillah has been 'in the works' for several years, but its true evolution ... We welcomed our new Siddur this week at Beth David. Mishkan Tefillah has been 'in the works' for several years, but its true evolution has occurred over the 150+ years of Reform Jewish history in this country. This sermon is told from the point of view of the Siddur coming to a new congregation, where it came from and what its purpose is for the congregation. What is involved in creating a Siddur and why would it change? Listen and discover. 1885 Pittsburgh Platform 1937 Columbus Platform 1976 San Francisco Platform 1999 Pittsburgh II Platform Download Standard Podcasts new siddur mishkan tefillah Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 16:49 V’eyrah http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/09/veyrah/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/09/veyrah/#comments Wed, 09 Jan 2008 06:08:40 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/09/veryah/ The hardening of Pharaoh’s heart seems to bother many people, however we seem to be more troubled by God doing this than the Egyptian king doing it. What happens when we find hard hearts in our society and is there little difference between Pharaoh and some of our current leaders?  This is an archive sermon from a year ago.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/09/veyrah/feed/ The hardening of Pharaoh's heart seems to bother many people, however we seem to be more troubled by God doing this than the Egyptian king ... The hardening of Pharaoh's heart seems to bother many people, however we seem to be more troubled by God doing this than the Egyptian king doing it. What happens when we find hard hearts in our society and is there little difference between Pharaoh and some of our current leaders?  This is an archive sermon from a year ago.Download Standard Podcasts hard heart Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 17:19 Shemot 5768 — What’s in a Good Name? http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/03/shemot-5768-whats-in-a-good-name/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/03/shemot-5768-whats-in-a-good-name/#comments Thu, 03 Jan 2008 06:33:08 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/03/shemot-5768-whats-in-a-good-name/ Thank you for being patient! What is a good name and why is it more important than fame? With the tragedy that stuck at the mall in Salt Lake City, the murderer said he did it so he could be important. Hmmmm…..maybe this is a way of being important in the media, but what of having a lasting value on our world? Let’s take a few minutes and think about that in our new secular year. — Shalom

The music you hear on this podcast is by Trip Wamsley and is entitled Firm Foundation. You can purchase his music and other albums at the price you pick at Magnatune.com.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2008/01/03/shemot-5768-whats-in-a-good-name/feed/ Thank you for being patient! What is a good name and why is it more important than fame? With the tragedy that stuck at ... Thank you for being patient! What is a good name and why is it more important than fame? With the tragedy that stuck at the mall in Salt Lake City, the murderer said he did it so he could be important. Hmmmm.....maybe this is a way of being important in the media, but what of having a lasting value on our world? Let's take a few minutes and think about that in our new secular year. -- Shalom The music you hear on this podcast is by Trip Wamsley and is entitled Firm Foundation. You can purchase his music and other albums at the price you pick at Magnatune.com.Download Standard Podcasts shemot 5768 Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 5:26 Vayekhi 5768 - Leadership (archive) http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/21/vayekhi-5768-leadership-archive/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/21/vayekhi-5768-leadership-archive/#comments Fri, 21 Dec 2007 22:39:28 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/21/vayekhi-5768-leadership-archive/ This is an archive sermon, but given where we are in our country it seems appropriate to talk about leadership. I don’t want comment on the candidates, but I do want to offer this podcast as a way of thinking about the demands of leadership and in particular Jewish leadership.

Music you hear on this podcast is available for purchase from magnatune.com.


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/21/vayekhi-5768-leadership-archive/feed/ This is an archive sermon, but given where we are in our country it seems appropriate to talk about leadership. I don't want comment on ... This is an archive sermon, but given where we are in our country it seems appropriate to talk about leadership. I don't want comment on the candidates, but I do want to offer this podcast as a way of thinking about the demands of leadership and in particular Jewish leadership. Music you hear on this podcast is available for purchase from magnatune.com.Download Standard Podcasts leadership Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 13:34 Vayigash 5766 (Archive) - Lessons from the Bottom of a Well http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/14/vayigash-5766-archive-lessons-from-the-bottom-of-a-well/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/14/vayigash-5766-archive-lessons-from-the-bottom-of-a-well/#comments Sat, 15 Dec 2007 01:25:01 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/14/vayigash-5766-archive-lessons-from-the-bottom-of-a-well/ Be careful of your friends is an old warning. This is an archive sermon from the time when Prime Minister Ariel Sharon first fell ill. It looks at our Torah portion and makes us wonder about the true friends of Israel, and the search for those who really believe in supporting the Jewish State even when it makes necessary and painful decisions.

Pat Robertson, … Zionist!

Pat Robertson, … Zionist?


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/14/vayigash-5766-archive-lessons-from-the-bottom-of-a-well/feed/ Be careful of your friends is an old warning. This is an archive sermon from the time when Prime Minister Ariel Sharon first fell ill. ... Be careful of your friends is an old warning. This is an archive sermon from the time when Prime Minister Ariel Sharon first fell ill. It looks at our Torah portion and makes us wonder about the true friends of Israel, and the search for those who really believe in supporting the Jewish State even when it makes necessary and painful decisions. Pat Robertson, ... Zionist! Pat Robertson, ... Zionist? Download Standard Podcasts vayigash 5768, sharon, robertson Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 17:56 Mikeitz 5768 http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/09/mikeitz-5768/ http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/09/mikeitz-5768/#comments Sun, 09 Dec 2007 06:41:05 +0000 rabbijim Sermon http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/09/mikeitz-5768/ The Bible is said to contain large pieces of wisdom and this week we encounter one. In the midst of his anxiety over his dreams, Pharaoh summons Joseph, a foreigner to help solve his dilemma. If only our leaders were as smart as to use the wisdom of other peoples and cultures to address the anxieties we face as a country and society today. Shalom!


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]]> http://rabbijim.podbean.com/2007/12/09/mikeitz-5768/feed/ The Bible is said to contain large pieces of wisdom and this week we encounter one. In the midst of his anxiety over his ... The Bible is said to contain large pieces of wisdom and this week we encounter one. In the midst of his anxiety over his dreams, Pharaoh summons Joseph, a foreigner to help solve his dilemma. If only our leaders were as smart as to use the wisdom of other peoples and cultures to address the anxieties we face as a country and society today. Shalom!Download Standard Podcasts mikeitz, joseph, wisdom Rabbi Jim Egolf No No 9:09