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PODCAST · religion

Judaism in the 21st Century

Our intricate world presents intertwined challenges, from tech to politics. In the US, religion's role is subtly changing, influenced largely by the "the hubris of the present-day". Yet, civilizations before us offer insights, untainted by our world.Hidden past insights hold much relevance. The "Judaism in the 21st Century" podcast draws bygone wisdom on today's challenges. Sage guidance to navigate our complex world.This podcast reimagines current matters using historical perspectives. Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff explore modern life, guided by Jewish sages' insights.

  1. 131

    The Role of Jerusalem in the 21st Century (S3, E31)

    A vision for the future of Jerusalem—and what it means for all of us.In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Rabbi Cohen shares a deeply personal and forward-looking story: the creation of a new kind of community in Jerusalem—one rooted not in uniformity, but in openness, kindness, and shared purpose.What does it mean to build a synagogue not in our own image, but in God’s image?How can Jerusalem, a city often defined by division, become a model of unity?This conversation connects past to present—from the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967 to the responsibility we carry today to actively shape a redemptive future.This is not just about a place. It’s about a mindset—and a call to participate in building something greater.

  2. 130

    Is there a proper way to argue? (S3, E30)

    Is there a right way to disagree?In a world increasingly defined by division, this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century explores a timeless idea: argument as a path to truth—not conflict.Judaism doesn’t just tolerate disagreement—it elevates it. But only when it’s done for the right reasons.We unpack:• The difference between debate and division• “Arguments for the sake of heaven” vs. personal conflict• Why the Talmud values multiple perspectives• How modern discourse has lost its balanceAt a time when disagreement often leads to polarization, this conversation offers a powerful framework for reclaiming respectful dialogue—and rebuilding connection.

  3. 129

    Making Sense of Prayer in the 21st Century (S3, E29)

    What is prayer supposed to feel like… especially if it never quite “clicked”?In this deeply personal episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff opens up about a lifelong struggle with prayer. Despite years of study and exposure, the emotional and spiritual connection others describe has remained elusive. Rabbi Daniel Cohen responds with a powerful reframing: prayer is not about changing God, but about changing us—our perspective, our gratitude, and our sense of purpose.Together, they explore what it means to engage with prayer in a modern world, how to move beyond simply reciting words, and why even a small, meaningful connection can be transformative. This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and resonates with anyone who has ever felt disconnected from traditional practice.

  4. 128

    Contrasting Israel's Memorial and Independence Days to the USA's (S3, E28)

    In this powerful episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore the profound emotional and spiritual journey from Yom HaZikaron to Yom HaAtzmaut. Drawing on personal experiences in Israel, they reflect on the haunting stillness of the nationwide siren, when an entire country pauses to remember its fallen—and the deep sense of shared responsibility that memory creates. The conversation then pivots to the remarkable transition just 24 hours later—from mourning to celebration—as Israel marks its independence. What does it mean to hold grief and joy so closely together? And what can we learn about gratitude, responsibility, and resilience from this uniquely Jewish rhythm of remembrance and renewal? This episode invites listeners to reflect not just on history, but on the obligations we carry forward.

  5. 127

    Elisha Weisel Interview on "Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire" (S3, E27)

    In this deeply moving conversation, Rabbi Daniel Cohen sits down with Elisha Wiesel, son of Elie Wiesel, following the film Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire. Together, they explore what it means not only to remember—but to carry memory forward as a moral responsibility.Elisha reflects on the private side of his father: a man who treated every individual with dignity, who listened deeply, and who lived his values not just in writing, but in everyday human encounters. He shares the complexity of inheriting such a legacy—moving from the burden of being “the son of a witness” to embracing his own role as a witness in today’s world.The discussion wrestles with some of the most enduring questions of Jewish life and human responsibility: how to hold faith alongside doubt, how to resist indifference in a noisy and often desensitized world, and how each of us can create “messianic moments” through our actions. As Elisha recalls, his father believed that identity and responsibility are inseparable—“don’t separate yourself from the community”—a principle that continues to shape how memory lives on. At its core, this episode is not just about the past. It is about what we choose to do with it. In a world that risks forgetting, this conversation challenges us to become carriers of memory, transforming remembrance into action—and refusing, above all, the quiet danger of indifference.

  6. 126

    An Interview with Elisha Weisel, son of Elie Weisel (S3, E27)

    In this deeply moving conversation, Rabbi Daniel Cohen sits down with Elisha Wiesel, son of Elie Wiesel, following the film Elie Wiesel: Soul on Fire. Together, they explore what it means not only to remember—but to carry memory forward as a moral responsibility.Elisha reflects on the private side of his father: a man who treated every individual with dignity, who listened deeply, and who lived his values not just in writing, but in everyday human encounters. He shares the complexity of inheriting such a legacy—moving from the burden of being “the son of a witness” to embracing his own role as a witness in today’s world.The discussion wrestles with some of the most enduring questions of Jewish life and human responsibility: how to hold faith alongside doubt, how to resist indifference in a noisy and often desensitized world, and how each of us can create “messianic moments” through our actions. As Elisha recalls, his father believed that identity and responsibility are inseparable—“don’t separate yourself from the community”—a principle that continues to shape how memory lives on. At its core, this episode is not just about the past. It is about what we choose to do with it. In a world that risks forgetting, this conversation challenges us to become carriers of memory, transforming remembrance into action—and refusing, above all, the quiet danger of indifference.

  7. 125

    The Role of Jerusalem in our Lives today (S3, E31)

    A vision for the future of Jerusalem—and what it means for all of us.In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Rabbi Cohen shares a deeply personal and forward-looking story: the creation of a new kind of community in Jerusalem—one rooted not in uniformity, but in openness, kindness, and shared purpose.What does it mean to build a synagogue not in our own image, but in God’s image?How can Jerusalem, a city often defined by division, become a model of unity?This conversation connects past to present—from the reunification of Jerusalem in 1967 to the responsibility we carry today to actively shape a redemptive future.This is not just about a place. It’s about a mindset—and a call to participate in building something greater.

  8. 124

    Lessons from the Men's Seder - Part 2 (S3, E26)

    In Part 2 of our Men’s Seder series, the conversation moves beyond the traditional Seder structure and into the deeper meaning behind Passover.We discuss the difference between physical freedom and inner freedom, why redemption is never a straight line, and how the story of Joseph reflects the ups and downs of both Jewish history and our own lives.We also explore the importance of family customs and traditions at the Seder table, and how small rituals and stories are often what children and grandchildren remember most. The Seder is not just about telling a story from 3,000 years ago, but about making freedom relevant today and passing our story to the next generation.Most importantly, we talk about the idea that leaving Egypt is really about leaving the habits, distractions, and ego that hold us back, and how Passover is really a holiday about personal growth and transformation.This episode is about freedom, memory, family, and becoming the person we are meant to be.

  9. 123

    Ideas for your Seders - Part 1 (S3, E25)

    In this special episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, we bring you highlights from the annual Men’s Seder, where rabbis from across the community share short ideas and stories to help make your Passover Seder more meaningful.In this episode, you’ll hear insights about the power of small acts, why the Seder is meant to be experiential and memorable for children, the importance of empathy for those who may be alone on Passover, and how gratitude is one of the central themes of the holiday. We also explore the idea that Passover is not just about remembering history, but about reliving it and allowing it to change us.These short teachings are designed to give you ideas, stories, and conversation starters that you can bring directly to your own Seder table this year.

  10. 122

    Four Practical Classes for Pesach (S3, E24)

    With Passover just weeks away, Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff discuss how the story of the Exodus can remain meaningful in modern life. The episode explores four themes that frame Rabbi Cohen’s upcoming Passover learning series: identifying our own “inner Egypt,” understanding why authentic personal growth unfolds over time, rediscovering awe and gratitude through the rituals of the Seder, and recognizing the generational responsibility embedded in the Passover tradition. Together, they reflect on how the Seder is designed not only to remember a historical event but to challenge each generation to live with greater freedom, purpose, and spiritual awareness.

  11. 121

    Mois Navon Part II: Can a Machine have a Soul? (S3, 23)

    Can a machine ever have a soul?In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Rabbi Dr. Mois Navon — philosopher, Torah scholar, and co-founder of Mobileye — we go deeper into one of the most unsettling questions of our time: What happens if AI becomes conscious?We explore the “hard problem of consciousness,” the difference between neural computation and lived experience, and whether building biological AI could one day create something truly sentient. From Alan Turing’s theological speculation to cutting-edge organoid research at Stanford, this episode confronts the razor’s edge between innovation and moral catastrophe.If we create a conscious machine, have we created intelligence — or a slave?Judaism doesn’t just ask, “Can we do this?” It asks, “Should we?”A bold and urgent discussion about technology, humility, and the boundaries we dare not cross.

  12. 120

    Mois Navon Part 1: AI, Humanity, and the Jewish Moral Imagination (S3, 22)

    Is AI just another tool — or are we entering a new era of moral responsibility?In this thought-provoking episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labov and Rabbi Daniel Cohen welcome Rabbi Dr. Mois Navon — philosopher, educator, and tech pioneer — to explore how Jewish thought grapples with artificial intelligence.From Noah as the first engineer to the ethical challenges of ChatGPT, we examine whether AI enhances human dignity or risks replacing it. What happens to creativity when machines can write sermons? Can AI ever be conscious? And how do we ensure that technology remains our assistant — not our substitute?A deeply relevant conversation recorded during a turbulent moment in Israel’s history, this episode challenges us to harness innovation without losing our humanity.

  13. 119

    A Purim Perspective on Diaspora Jews (S3, E21)

    In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore Purim through a lens that feels strikingly modern. Set against the backdrop of exile, comfort, and choice, they unpack a lesser-known dimension of the Purim story: the Jews of Persia had the opportunity to return to Israel and chose not to.What does that choice teach us about Jewish life in the Diaspora today? Is living outside Israel merely geography, or does it carry moral and spiritual responsibility? Drawing on biblical history, rabbinic insight, and contemporary reality, this conversation examines assimilation, belonging, and the enduring question of how Jews everywhere share in a common destiny.As Purim approaches, this episode invites listeners to reflect on power, comfort, identity, and the meaning of returning “like a bird, not a cloud.”

  14. 118

    Speaking Up: A Purim Story for Our Time (S3, E20)

    In this timely episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen turn to the Purim story to ask a deeply modern question: what does it mean to find your Esther and your Mordechai today?Esther didn’t seek power, but when history placed her in a moment of consequence, she was pushed to act with courage, despite real personal risk. Mordechai’s challenge to her, “for such a time as this,” becomes a lens for thinking about moral responsibility, leadership, and speaking up in the face of rising antisemitism and division.The conversation explores whether fighting every falsehood is the best use of our energy, or whether strengthening our sense of “why” as Jews is the deeper work. As Purim approaches, this episode invites listeners to reflect on courage, voice, and the roles we are called to play right now.

  15. 117

    Compassion, Loss, and Jewish Wisdom on Pets (S3, E20)

    In this week’s episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen tackle a deeply personal and widely shared experience: facing end-of-life decisions for a beloved pet. Sparked by Steven’s aging cat, Perry, the conversation explores what Jewish tradition teaches about animal suffering, compassion, and responsibility.What does Judaism say about putting a pet out of pain? How is animal suffering understood differently from human suffering? And do animals possess something akin to a soul?This thoughtful, grounded discussion blends personal storytelling with Jewish ethics, offering clarity, comfort, and perspective for anyone who has loved a companion animal. A quiet but meaningful episode about grief, gratitude, and the moral weight of caring for life at its most vulnerable.

  16. 116

    The Silence of God in the 21st Century (S3, E19)

    In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore a question many modern Jews quietly carry: Is God silent today, or have we lost the ability to listen? They look back to Joseph as a model for sensing God’s presence without direct revelation, and they discuss why Judaism may see “hiddenness” not as abandonment, but as an invitation to grow faith and spiritual resilience. From Purim’s concealed providence to the everyday miracles we often take for granted, the conversation turns practical: prayer as a daily exercise in gratitude, and “radical amazement” as a way to notice what is right in front of us.

  17. 115

    The Value of Time to Jews in the 21st Century (S3, E18)

    Time is one of the most precious resources we have, yet it’s often the one we treat most casually. In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore how Judaism understands time not as something to “kill,” but as something to sanctify. From the idea that even a few seconds can change a life, to the responsibility that comes with freedom, the conversation invites listeners to think more intentionally about how they use their days, their minutes, and even their moments, and how small acts can create lasting meaning.

  18. 114

    Why is it So Hard to be Jewish in the 21st Century (S3, E17)

    Why does being Jewish sometimes feel so difficult? In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen unpack the many layers behind that question. From the discipline required to live a values-driven Jewish life, to the tensions between tradition and modern culture, to the external pressures of antisemitism and public identity, the discussion reframes “hard” not as a flaw, but as a reflection of purpose. Judaism, they argue, isn’t about shortcuts; it’s about commitment, meaning, and striving to become the best version of ourselves.

  19. 113

    No Matter Where You Go, There You Are: Dealing with Time in the Modern World (S3, E16)

    In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore a deceptively simple question: how does Judaism deal with time when time itself becomes complicated?From praying on airplanes and crossing time zones, to Shabbat above the Arctic Circle, to future Jewish life on the Moon or Mars, this conversation examines how halacha adapts without losing its soul. Along the way, they unpack safety, intention, community, and a timeless Jewish idea captured perfectly in a pop-culture line: no matter where you go, there you are.A thoughtful and surprisingly practical discussion about faith, travel, technology, and what it means to carry Torah with you wherever life takes you.

  20. 112

    New Year's Resolutions and Living a Life of Legacy (S3, E15)

    As the calendar turns to 2026, this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century explores a deeper way to think about the new year: through the lens of legacy.Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen reflect on Jacob’s final words in the Torah, focusing on his radical decision to elevate his grandchildren, Ephraim and Menashe, as full heirs to the Jewish future. Raised in exile, they represent a powerful truth: Jewish identity is not bound to place, but to values carried wherever life leads.From personal stories to timeless teachings, this conversation reframes memory as responsibility. Legacy, we learn, is not about how we are remembered, but about how we live now. A thoughtful, moving episode about continuity, purpose, and becoming a bridge between generations.

  21. 111

    Education and Technology in Jewish Education (S3, E14)

    In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen explore how Jewish learning is evolving in an age of technology and AI. From ancient oral tradition to digital libraries, podcasts, and tools like ChatGPT, they ask a timely question: how do we use new technologies to deepen Jewish life without losing critical thinking, reflection, or soul?The conversation weaves together personal stories, Torah study, Shabbat as a counterbalance to constant connectivity, and the responsibility of educators to meet each generation where they are. This episode is not about replacing tradition, but about elevating it, using today’s tools thoughtfully to educate, inspire, and bring more meaning into our lives.

  22. 110

    Chanukah in the face of Bondi Beach (S3, E13)

    In this special Chanukah episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen confront a painful and urgent reality. As Jews were murdered while celebrating Chanukah in Sydney and another Jewish life was taken in the United States, antisemitism feels closer, louder, and more threatening than many of us have ever experienced.This conversation explores how Chanukah speaks directly to this moment. Drawing on the story of the Maccabees, Rabbi Cohen reflects on the dual responsibility Jews carry today: to confront darkness and violence head-on, while also continuing to bring light into the world through visible Jewish life, courage, and acts of goodness.Through personal reflection, Jewish history, and a powerful story from the Sydney community itself, this episode asks a simple but profound question: when fear rises, do we dim the light, or do we add another candle? Spoilers: Add another candle!

  23. 109

    What Makes Humans Unique? Our Soul? Our Ability to Choose? (S3, E12)

    This week on Judaism in the 21st Century, Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff discuss AI, the soul, human purpose, and the moral questions emerging as artificial intelligence advances. Inspired by a recent talk from Mois Navon (Mobileye co-founder, rabbi, philosopher, and global speaker on ethics and AI), we ask:• What truly makes humans unique?• If technology can think, create, and solve problems—what is our role?• Does Judaism provide a framework for how we should approach AI?• The most essential question: not “Can we build it?” but “Should we?”This episode challenges us to reflect on personal purpose, responsibility, and the importance of bringing godliness into everything we do.

  24. 108

    Privacy vs Transparency: A Jewish Perspective (S3, E11)

    In this episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Dr. Steven Labkoff and Rabbi Daniel Cohen tackle the tension between privacy and transparency—two values that shape our digital, ethical, and spiritual lives. Steven introduces the topic through a modern lens, observing how people routinely trade privacy for convenience in a hyperconnected world. Rabbi Cohen offers a deeply Jewish perspective rooted in Torah, revealing that privacy is not merely a social courtesy but a sacred obligation.Citing the phrase “Vayedaber Hashem el Moshe leimor” (“God spoke to Moses, saying…”), Rabbi Cohen explains that the word leimor implies permission—God granting Moses explicit authority to share divine words. Without such consent, Moses would be obligated to keep God’s message private. From this, Judaism teaches that we must never assume we have the right to share information unless given express permission.The discussion extends into the ethics of modern communication—emails, blind copies, social media—and how easily private information can spread. Steven reflects on how this lesson challenges his own habits around openness, especially in an age where personal boundaries are often blurred online.The episode closes with a reminder that words hold tremendous power: they can create worlds or destroy them. Rabbi Cohen emphasizes that speech must be used to bring light, unity, and healing—echoing God’s own creative use of words at the beginning of time.

  25. 107

    Mamdani's Mayor-Elect - Now What - Part 2 of 2

    Rabbi Cohen and I have further thoughts about the Mayor-Elect in NYC. Please listen to our further comments about what we should be thinking and doing about this situation...

  26. 106

    Mamdani is the Mayor-Elect - Now what? (S3, E9)

    With the election of Zohan Mamdani, the Jewish community in the city of NY has to think carefully about what happens next...

  27. 105

    What Defines "Holy" in 2025? (S3, E8)

    What does it really mean to be holy in 2025?In this thought-provoking new episode of Judaism in the 21st Century, Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff unpack one of Judaism’s most profound questions: Is holiness something divinely assigned—or something we create ourselves?From the holiness of Mount Sinai to the sacredness we bring into our daily lives, they explore how modern society defines what is “holy,” and whether that definition can coexist with our practical world.Listen now to discover how you can bring holiness into your own moments, relationships, and choices.🎧 Judaism in the 21st Century, Season 3 Episode 8: “What Does It Mean to Be Holy in 2025?”

  28. 104

    How is our Community akin to Noah's Ark? (S3, E7)

    How is our community related to the story of Noah's Ark? Believe it or not, there are many similarities - especially when a flood of challenges might be on the horizon. Tune in this week to hear how these two seeminly unrelated entities are indeed related - and, in today's world, we might just need our community to take the role of the ark...

  29. 103

    Did the Torah and Prophets Foretell the Hostage Release? (S3, E6)

    This week’s episode of Judaism in the 21st Century touches one of the most emotional and spiritually profound moments in recent memory—the release of the hostages in Israel. Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff reflect on this event through the lens of Torah and prophecy, exploring how moments of unimaginable pain and joy can coexist, and how we can find divine purpose even amid tragedy.Drawing on Ecclesiastes and the prophets, Rabbi Cohen shares three enduring lessons: keeping our hearts open to those who still suffer, finding resilience in rebuilding our lives, and recognizing God’s hand in moments that defy coincidence—such as the hostages’ return occurring two years to the day after their capture. The conversation moves from tears to awe as ancient texts seem to speak directly to our own times.Listen to this deeply moving discussion as Steven and Rabbi Cohen wrestle with faith, redemption, and the enduring light of hope in dark times. Share your thoughts with us on Facebook.

  30. 102

    Maybe, Just Maybe, the Hostages are Coming Home! (S3, E5)

    This week we discuss the pending peace agreement with Hamas and Israel - and perhaps maybe, just maybe, the hostages will be released and come home!

  31. 101

    What's the most Joyous Holiday on the Jewish Calendar? (S3, E04)

    As we move from Yom Kippur into Sukkot, Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff explore what true joy means in Judaism — and why Sukkot, not Purim, is considered the most joyous time of the year. Through stories from Torah, insights from the Talmud, and reflections on modern life, the conversation draws connections between ancient wisdom and our 21st-century world.Discover how Sukkot’s simple rituals — eating outdoors, welcoming guests, and appreciating nature — invite us to find happiness not in possessions or achievements, but in presence, gratitude, and wonder. A reminder that even in an age of constant motion and technology, the purest joy may still come from the simplest moments.

  32. 100

    Yom Kippur and the Year Beyond (S3, E03)

    We are in the season of T'shuvah. As the 10 days lead to the crescendo that is Yom Kippur, one starts to think about "what's next?" How do you keep the feelings that are elicited during these ten days and on Yom Kippur with you for more than 15 minutes after the holiday ends? We discuss how to keep your focus on these feelings through the use of SMART Goals - Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-bound. If we all were to make just a few SMART goals for the year that relate to the feelings during the 10 days of awe, perhaps those feelings might persist beyond. Rabbi Cohen offers his perspectives on this approach for 5786/2025-26.

  33. 99

    AI Avatars and the Neshama - The Soul in the world of AI

    In a recent episode, we spoke about rituals having to do with death and dying. There are emerging technologies that purport to provide a means of recording your thoughts and being and implant them into an AI Avatar. This sounds like science fiction, and for the most part, today it is - but for how long? The ideas, thoughts, and even the voice of a person can persist in the world of AI - and soon, as in some science fiction shows such as Black Mirror or Upload, a full representation of a human's essence might be able to be preserved - forever. What are the implications? What does Judaism have to say about an everlasting AI Soul? Tune in to this week's podcast to find out.

  34. 98

    Appreciating G-d's Handiwork in the 21st Century (S03, E01)

    One of the most beautiful times of the year is nearly upon us here in New England. The change of the seasons will bring us colorful trees, apple cider, shorter and crisper days. This is just one example of G-d's handiwork. But how often do you "stop to smell the roses" with this new season nearly here? For our opening of season three of the podcast, we explore the concept of appreciating G-d's handiwork.

  35. 97

    The Ultra Orthodox and the IDF - What's the Controversy all About? (S2, E52)

    If you have been following Israeli politics, you have undoubtedly heard (but may not fully understand) the standoff between the ultra-orthodox community and the secular government and the requirement to serve in the IDF at age 17 or 18. The issue has gotten so contentious that it threatens to bring down the Israeli Government. But what is at the root of this controversy? Tune in to find out...

  36. 96

    Dealing with Dementia in the 21st Century (S2, E51)

    After our podcast on death and dying, we got an email from a listener to address how to handle a situation where a loved one has dementia. In this podcast, we unpack what Judaism has to say about this tragic situation. Spoilers - just like the instructions to put your own oxygen mask on during an air emergency, we have similar advice: Take care of yourself first so you have the strength to take care of your loved one. Ask for help and ensure you have the opportunity to rest from time to time. Ensure you take care of yourself so you can take care of your loved ones... And there's more words of wisdom on this very painful topic.

  37. 95

    Aging Parents and Loved Ones in the 21st Century (S2, E50)

    Today, we are living longer lives than ever before in human history - it was less than 100 years ago that life expectancy was a small fraction of where it is today - but with those advances come new challenges. How do we keep the commandment of "Honor your mother and father" in the face of parents and loved ones who are now nonagenarians or older? Today, we discuss this commandment and it's ramifications in the 21st Century.

  38. 94

    Rituals in the 21st Century, Part III: Death and Dying (S2, E49)

    The wisdom of the Torah is often said to be "eternal." One can not argue about the wisdom of so much of Judaism. In this week's episode, we explore the wisdom of the rituals surrounding death and dying. While ancient, these rituals provide a pathway from grief back to the world of life for everyone who passes through this difficult time. This week's episode explores that wisdom as well as some of the rituals around this most difficult time in all of our lives.

  39. 93

    The 100th Episode! Nearly Two Years in Review (S2, E48)

    Today's podcast is our 100th together. This journey that Rabbi Cohen and I began nearly two years ago has blossomed into a weekly podcast where we unpack topics from human genomics and whether artificial meat is kosher or not, to how do we as a people survive in these uncertain times. We have covered a huge amount of ground over these past 100 episodes. Today's discussion is a retrospective on just some of the discussions and topics we've unpacked since the summer of 2023. We thank you all for being with us on this journey for the past two years!

  40. 92

    Self Determination vs. Devine Intervention (S2, E47)

    Who's running the show? Is it Hashem? Is it you and me? Come listen to some perspectives on the topic of free will vs divine will.

  41. 91

    Tisha B'Av in the 21st Century - Mourning to Action (S2, E46)

    Though in the middle of the summer, Tisha B'Av is among the most solemn holidays on the Jewish calendar. It commemorates the destruction of both the first and second temples. It is a time for mourning these losses - but also a time to rebuild. In our modern world, the message of this solemn day rings true in some unexpected ways. Tune in to learn more.

  42. 90

    The Lesser-known Fast Days in the 21st Century (S2, E45)

    While every Jew is aware of the big fast day on the calendar, Yom Kippur, there are other fast days on the Jewish calendar that you may not have heard of. They commemorate different things, but taken as a whole, they provide a chance for those who observe to keep a specific set of tenets in mind. We discuss the lesser-known fast days on this edition of Judaism in the 21st Century.

  43. 89

    The Role of Comedy in the Jewish Experience (S2, E 44)

    Regardless of the era, from the Marx Brothers to John Stewart, Jewish comedians have been helping us to laugh at ourselves for generations. In this week's episode, we explore the role of comedy in our community and country and how it helps broaden our perspectives on life, despite the challenges we face.

  44. 88

    The Value of VACATIONS! (S2, 43)

    Oy Vey, I need a Vacation... Those words are said by so many, and yet, oftentimes, people do not take the chance to break away and recharge. IT turns out that vacations are actually part of the Talmud's teachings. This week, we unpack VACATIONS and their value.

  45. 87

    July 4th vs Yom HaAtzmaut - What does Independence Mean Today? (S2, E42)

    The concept of "independence" and its meaning vary between countries. In the USA, it's become a holiday with picnics, parades, and fireworks. In Israel, Independence Day (Yom HaAztmaut) is celebrated much differently. There is a juxtaposition of Memorial Day with Independence Day - they are one day apart in Israel. We discuss these and other differences in this week's episode.

  46. 86

    Business Ethics in the 21st Century - the first in a series (S2, E41)

    On the holiday of Shavuot, I spent my evening in synagogue at a late-night study session on Torah. Rabbi Cohen gave a talk about business ethics and its relationship to Shavuot—and to Judaism in general. In today's episode, we unpack some of these very relevant lessons. This issue has been at the forefront of our faith far longer than you might expect. It's been discussed in Torah, Talmud, and in countless books across time. This will be the first of several episodes on this topic... Please join us for the journey.

  47. 85

    Israel at War - and how you can help (S2, E40)

    At 8 PM EDT this past Thursday, June 12, the State of Israel took on a task that the rest of the world should have done long ago: It started an effort to destroy Iran's nuclear program. The early stages of the effort brought great success, but for every action, there is a reaction, and the cost of that reaction will be paid in spilled Israeli blood in the homeland. In today's episode, we discuss how you can contribute during this time of war and what you can do to support those in need. We also discuss how you can conduct yourself and try not to be consumed by the nearly instant news cycle.Below are some organizations you can doate to to help in the effort:Organization Email and WebsitesAmerican Friends of Magen David Adom (U.S.)[email protected] / [email protected] David Adom (Israel) [email protected] of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF)— online form / regional: [email protected] National Fund (JNF-USA)[email protected] / [email protected]@aipac.org / [email protected]@israaid.org, [email protected], [email protected] Agency (JAFINA)[email protected](website donation)ifcj.orgJewish Federations (via local chapters) See local federation site - jewishfederations.org.

  48. 84

    G-d in Secular Literature with Rabbi Herbert Cohen (S2, E39)

    We have a guest this week, Rabbi Herbert Cohen, a PhD in literature... who also happens to be Rabbi Daniel Cohen's father. We discuss how G-d is portrayed in secular literature in this week's episode.

  49. 83

    What is Shavuot in the 21st Century? (S2, E38)

    Shavuot is one of the most important holidays on the Jewish Calendar. It commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments to the Jewish people at Mount Sinai. But what does it mean to us today? Listen in to this episode to find out.

  50. 82

    What is the Responsiblity(ies) of Diaspora Jews in the 21st Century? (S2, E37)

    As Jews living in America, we are part of what is known as the Diaspora. Do we, as Diaspora Jews, have additional responsibilities to the State of Israel? Tune in for a discussion about this topic in this week's episode.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Our intricate world presents intertwined challenges, from tech to politics. In the US, religion's role is subtly changing, influenced largely by the "the hubris of the present-day". Yet, civilizations before us offer insights, untainted by our world.Hidden past insights hold much relevance. The "Judaism in the 21st Century" podcast draws bygone wisdom on today's challenges. Sage guidance to navigate our complex world.This podcast reimagines current matters using historical perspectives. Rabbi Daniel Cohen and Dr. Steven Labkoff explore modern life, guided by Jewish sages' insights.

HOSTED BY

SLabkoff

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Judaism in the 21st Century have?

Judaism in the 21st Century currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Judaism in the 21st Century about?

Our intricate world presents intertwined challenges, from tech to politics. In the US, religion's role is subtly changing, influenced largely by the "the hubris of the present-day". Yet, civilizations before us offer insights, untainted by our world.Hidden past insights hold much relevance. The...

How often does Judaism in the 21st Century release new episodes?

Judaism in the 21st Century has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Judaism in the 21st Century?

You can listen to Judaism in the 21st Century on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Judaism in the 21st Century?

Judaism in the 21st Century is created and hosted by SLabkoff.
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