Kol Deracheha artwork

Kol Deracheha

94 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratings

Welcome to Kol Deracheha, a podcast about women and mitzvot, from deracheha.org, a Yeshivat Har Etzion Initiative.
Our name comes from the pasuk in Mishlei 3:10, which says “be-chol derachecha da’ehu.” “In all your ways, know God.” We’ve changed that to Kol Deracheha, which means “all her ways,” and also “the voice of Deracheha.”
Our goal is that Kol Deracheha will inspire you wherever you walk on the pathways of Torah.
Season 1 of Kol Deracheha is dedicated in memory of Mrs. Anita Hirsch Silverman, Yehudit Raizel bat Eliezer v'Esther, zichrona livracha.

Judaism Religion & Spirituality Education torah women feminism halachah mitzvah mitzvot
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Episodes

Bat Mitzva

February 01, 2023 11:49 - 1 hour - 59.2 MB

In this episode we discuss the halachic significance of bat mitzva and how should it be observed or celebrated. Full article available here: https://www.deracheha.org/bat-mitzva/

Chinuch

January 15, 2023 10:06 - 54 minutes - 53 MB

In this episode we discuss what is chinuch for mitzvot, who is obligated, and at what stage. Dedicated by Sarah Kenigsberg Le-ilui Nishmat Chaya Miriam Bat Kasriel. Full article available here: https://www.deracheha.org/chinuch/

Behind the Scenes: Talking about Chinuch with Ora & Laurie

July 07, 2022 12:52 - 23 minutes - 16.1 MB

In this episode, we discuss our personal inspirations and approaches to chinuch for our children. Article on Chinuch available here: https://www.deracheha.org/chinuch/

Mechitza III: Separation in Society

April 03, 2022 12:10 - 1 hour - 54 MB

In this episode we discuss when we need a mechitza or gender separation outside of prayer. To read all the sources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.deracheha.org/mechitza-3-separation-in-society/

Mechitza II: Structure

March 27, 2022 09:02 - 30 minutes - 27.5 MB

In this episode we discuss the structural requirements for a mechitza and whether the ezrat nashim‘s structure has a halachic effect on prayers said within it. Find all the sources discussed in this episode on our website here: https://www.deracheha.org/mechitza-2-structure/

Mechitza I: Purpose

March 20, 2022 12:45 - 41 minutes - 35.9 MB

In this episode we discuss the purpose of mechitza and why gender separation is a part of prayer. This episode is dedicated in honor of Ilana Abramson's birthday by her daughter, Raphaela. Full article available here: https://www.deracheha.org/mechitza-1-purpose/  

Megilla Reading II: Quorum and Reading for Others

February 15, 2022 12:09 - 39 minutes - 36.2 MB

In part 2 of our megilla reading podcast we discuss who constitutes a quorum for megilla reading, and whether women may read for herself and others. Read all the sources here: https://www.deracheha.org/megilla-reading/

Megilla Reading I: The Mitzva and Brachot

February 08, 2022 22:01 - 28 minutes - 26.3 MB

In this episode we discuss the nature of women's obligation in megilla reading and the brachot recited. Part 2 will discuss who constitutes a quorum for megilla reading, and who a woman may read for. Read more in our article here: https://www.deracheha.org/megilla-reading/

Women and Tefilla Be-tzibbur

January 17, 2022 10:14 - 48 minutes - 45.8 MB

In this episode we dicuss women and tefilla be-tzibbur. Specifically, what is the nature of communal prayer? What is the role of Shaliach Tzibbur, and who can fill it? What is the significance of women’s participation? Click here for the full article: https://www.deracheha.org/tefilla-be-tzibbur/ This episode was dedicated in memory of Michael ben Yosef Halevi Lebenbaum

Women and Minyan

January 09, 2022 09:01 - 34 minutes - 33.6 MB

In this episode we address some fundamental questions about minyan. What is a minyan and what is it for? Who does and doesn’t count toward a minyan, and why? To read all the sources mentions in this podcast, head to https://www.deracheha.org/minyan/  

Behind the Scenes: Menstruation and Shabbat

January 02, 2022 11:29 - 18 minutes - 14.3 MB

In this short episode, Rachel goes behind the scenes with Laurie to discuss Deracheha's most recent article on menstruation and Shabbat. Learn what made writing this article so challenging, what surprised Laurie as she was writing it, and what's next on Deracheha's to-do list. To read the article, click here: www.deracheha.org/menstruation-and-shabbat/

Learning about Sigd with Brhan Worku

November 04, 2021 15:07 - 21 minutes - 14.5 MB

Deracheha's Rachel Weber Leshaw spoke to Brhan Worku about the Ethiopian Jewish holiday of Sigd. Brhan talked about the meaning of Sigd, her family's journey from Ethiopia, cultural differences between Ethiopian and Israeli society, and whether non-Ethiopian Jews should celebrate Sigd too. Speaking engagements for Brhan can be arranged through storiesofisrael.com

Erev Yom Kippur

September 01, 2021 16:39 - 56 minutes - 51.9 MB

What are the the mitzvot and customs of Erev Yom Kippur? Why are they significant? How do they apply to women? Full article here: www.deracheha.org/erev-yom-kippur/ Tefilla Zakah adapted for women here: https://www.kipa.co.il/userFiles/zaka_yomKipur.pdf

Selichot

August 17, 2021 11:07 - 1 hour - 57.2 MB

In this espisode we discuss Selicht - what are Selichot? Are women obligated to recite them? Do they require a minyan? Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/selichot/ Rav Ezra Bick's commentary on the Yud Gimmel Middot - https://www.etzion.org.il/en/series/understanding-13-middot-en All Deracheha's Elul content available here: https://www.deracheha.org/elul-tishrei/

Dress IV: Keli Gever

July 28, 2021 10:46 - 1 hour - 65.3 MB

In this episode we address the halacha of keli gever - what is a man’s article, a keli gever? What is the prohibition of a woman’s wearing one? How does intent affect this halacha? Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/dress-4-keli-gever/

Talking About Eicha and More with Dr. Yael Ziegler

July 08, 2021 10:25 - 29 minutes - 20.8 MB

In this special Pre-Tish'a Be-Av episode we talk to Dr. Yael Ziegler about her new book "Lamentations: Faith in a Turbulent World" and her experience writing on such a seemingly sad topic. We also discuss her new appointment as Rosh Beit Midrash of Matan, and her career path until today. Buy the book here: https://korenpub.com/products/lamentations-faith-in-a-turbulent-world

Kiddush 2: Practical Issues

July 04, 2021 10:35 - 1 hour - 61 MB

In this episode we discuss some practical issues relating to kiddush. Can someone eat before kiddush? Does a woman recite or respond to she-hechiyyanu in Yom Tov kiddush? Does prayer affect the ability to make kiddush for others? Full article available here: https://www.deracheha.org/kiddush-2-practical-issues/

Kiddush I: Obligation

June 23, 2021 20:12 - 50 minutes - 48.1 MB

In this episode we discuss the mitzva of kiddush, both on Shabbat and Yom Tov, at night and during the day. We discuss a woman's obligation, and also how  a couple should handle kiddush during Niddah (Wikipedia) Niddah (or nidah; Hebrew: נִדָּה‬), in Judaism, describes a woman during menstruation, or a woman who has menstruated and not yet completed the associated requirement of immersion in a mikveh (ritual bath). "> nidda. Read the article here: https://www.deracheha.org/kiddush-1-oblig...

Discharging Obligations in Practice

June 15, 2021 04:25 - 20 minutes - 19 MB

In this episode we discuss when a woman can discharge a man's mitzva obligations, and cases where she technically can, but maybe should not. Why would that be the case? Listen to find out, and gain insight into differences between birkat hamazon, kiddush and megilla. Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/discharging-obligations-in-practice/

Talking about Trust and Fear in Halakha Education with Shayna Goldberg

May 26, 2021 13:08 - 44 minutes - 29.5 MB

In this new podcast we go behind-the-scenes with Shayna Goldberg, Contributing Editor to Deracheha and author of the new book "What Do You Really Want?" In her conversation with Rachel, Shayna explains how the book came to be, how it relates to her work as an educator, and lessons she's learned from her years of teaching and providing halakhic guidance.  Learn more about the book here: https://korenpub.com/products/what-do-you-really-want And read about Deracheha's approach to writing ab...

Discharging Another's Mitzva Obligations

May 20, 2021 11:44 - 22 minutes - 21.3 MB

In this episode we discuss how and when a person can discharge someone else’s halachic obligation. Who can do this for whom, and what are the halachic mechanisms that allow this to work?  

Talking about Shavuot with Rachel Sharansky Danziger

May 11, 2021 10:34 - 28 minutes - 16.8 MB

In this special pre-Shavuot interview episode, we spoke to Rachel Sharansky Danziger about Torah, story-telling, immigration, Megillat Rut, Shavuot at the Kotel and more!

Talking about Shavuot with Rachel Sharansky Danziger

May 11, 2021 10:34 - 28 minutes - 16.8 MB

In this special pre-Shavuot interview episode, we spoke to Rachel Sharansky Danziger about Torah, story-telling, immigration, Megillat Rut, Shavuot at the Kotel and more!

Zimmun 2: The Text and Mixed Zimmun

April 20, 2021 11:46 - 48 minutes - 44.2 MB

In the second episode in our podcast series we discuss whether men and women can combine to form a Birkat_Hamazon#Zimmun (Wikipedia) Birkat Hamazon (Hebrew: .mw-parser-output .script-hebrew,.mw-parser-output .script-Hebr{font-family:"SBL Hebrew","SBL BibLit","Frank Ruehl CLM","Taamey Frank CLM","Ezra SIL","Ezra SIL SR","Keter Aram Tsova","Taamey Ashkenaz","Taamey David CLM","Keter YG","Shofar","David CLM","Hadasim CLM","Simple CLM","Nachlieli",Cardo,Alef,"Noto Serif Hebrew","Noto Sans Hebrew...

Zimmun 1: The Mitzva and Women's Zimmun

April 13, 2021 11:16 - 41 minutes - 37.7 MB

In our first podcast on Zimmun we discuss the mitzva of zimmun, who is obligated in it, and under what circumstances women recite it. Full article with sources: https://www.deracheha.org/zimmun-part-1/ Women's Zimmun Card available here: https://www.deracheha.org/zimmun-card/  

Talking Chametz, Matza and More with Devorah Katz of Pat Bamelach

March 15, 2021 16:54 - 18 minutes - 17.3 MB

In this interview, Rachel sat down with Devorah Katz of Pat Bamelach bakery in Efrat right before Pesach to talk about chametz, matza and more. Listen to find out what a bakery does with its sourdough starter on Pesach, and the surprising ways food brought people together during the coronavirus pandemic. (And lots more, like Deracheha's zimmun cards, the creative women of Pat Bamelach, and the Katz family Pesach Seder!) Find all of Deracheha's Pesach content here: www.deracheha.org/pesach-...

Women at the Seder - Part 2

March 10, 2021 14:29 - 28 minutes - 25.9 MB

In this episode we discuss women's obligation in reclining at the seder and telling the story of the exodus from Egypt. Read the full article with sources here: https://www.deracheha.org/the-seder-part-2/

Women at the Seder - Part 1

March 02, 2021 08:49 - 29 minutes - 27.1 MB

In this episode we discuss women's obligation at the Pesach seder. Are women obligated in Pesach, matza and maror? In the four cups? In Hallel? Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/the-seder-part-1  

Mitzvot of Purim

February 18, 2021 15:35 - 44 minutes - 40.8 MB

In this episode we discuss the mitzvot of Purim - mishlo'ach manot, matanot la-evyonim and se'uda. Where do these obligations stem from, and what are women's obligations in them? (The topic of women and megilla reading will be addressed in the next podcast.)    

Arba Parashiyot

February 09, 2021 10:52 - 27 minutes - 25 MB

In this episode we discuss the four special Torah readings that precede Purim and Pesach Why do we read them and who must hear them? Are women obligated to hear Parashat Zachor? Read the full article here:  https://www.deracheha.org/arba-parashiyot/

Exemption from Major Fasts

February 09, 2021 10:40 - 1 hour - 59.8 MB

In this episode we discuss whether all women must fast on Yom Kippur and Tish’a Be-Av? What if a woman is pregnant, postpartum, or nursing? How do the laws of the two fast days differ? Read the full article here:  https://www.deracheha.org/exemption-from-major-fasts  

Exemptions from Minor Fasts

December 29, 2020 13:54 - 30 minutes - 27.5 MB

Must all Jewish women fast on the minor fast days? What if a woman is pregnant or breastfeeding? Postpartum or after pregnancy loss? Read Deracheha's full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/exemption-from-minor-fasts/

Fast Days

December 23, 2020 09:28 - 45 minutes - 41.5 MB

In this episode, the first in our series on fast days, we discuss when do we fast and why, including background on the fasts of Yom Kippur, Asarah Be-tevet, 17 Be-tammuz, Tisha Be-av, Tzom Gedalya and Ta'anit Esther. We also discuss the level of obligation on each fast day and who is obligated.  To read the full article, click here: https://www.deracheha.org/fast-days/

Chanuka II - Other Observances

December 01, 2020 12:06 - 18 minutes - 16.9 MB

What other observances of Chanuka are special to women? Are women obligated to recite Hallel on Chanuka? Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/chanuka-2-other-observances/

Chanuka I - Candle-Lighting

November 24, 2020 10:36 - 31 minutes - 29 MB

Does a woman light her own Chanuka candles? When does she light for others? Read the full article on our site here: https://www.deracheha.org/chanuka/

Birkat Ha-Mazon II - Women's Obligation

November 17, 2020 11:02 - 40 minutes - 37.1 MB

In this episode we discuss women's obligation in Birkat Ha-Mazon, and what questions the test of Birkat Ha-Mazon may raise for women.  Read the full article here (starting from obligation): https://www.deracheha.org/birkat-ha-mazon/

Birkat Ha-mazon I: The Mitzva

November 10, 2020 17:29 - 25 minutes - 23.4 MB

What is the mitzva of Birkat Ha-mazon? What is the reason for the mitzva, and what must be included? Read the full article on our site here: https://www.deracheha.org/birkat-ha-mazon/

Af Hen: Inclusion in the Miracle

November 04, 2020 14:47 - 30 minutes - 42.1 MB

What is the principle of af hen hayu be-oto ha-nes? When and how does it obligate women in mitzvot? Does it only apply to Chanukah, Purim and Pesach? Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/af-hen/

Simchat Yom Tov

October 27, 2020 09:16 - 32 minutes - 29.6 MB

In this episode we discuss simchat yom tov (rejoicing on a festival). What is the nature of this mitzva? What is a woman’s obligation in it? Read the full article on our site here: https://www.deracheha.org/simchat-yom-tov/

Talking about Nursing and Fasting with Dr. Deena Zimmerman

September 22, 2020 12:39 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

In this episode we interview Dr. Deena Zimmerman, MD MPH IBCLC and yoetzet halacha, about nursing and fasting. We discuss what a nursing mother can expect if she fasts, how to prepare for the fast, and when a woman should consult with a halachic expert to decide whether she should fast.  Learn more here: https://www.deracheha.org/exemption-from-major-fasts/

Blowing Shofar

September 13, 2020 09:30 - 21 minutes - 20.5 MB

In this episode we'll discuss who can blow shofar for whom on Rosh Hashanah, and specific issues that arise because of the difference in obligation between men and women. To read the full article, click here: https://www.deracheha.org/blowing-shofar/

The Mitzva of Shofar

September 06, 2020 12:48 - 31 minutes - 28.4 MB

In this episode we discuss the  mitzva of shofar on Rosh Hashana, whether women are obligated, and some practical issues that arise.  To read the full article on our site, click here: https://www.deracheha.org/the-mitzva-of-shofar/

Shofar in Elul

September 02, 2020 15:04 - 16 minutes - 14.8 MB

In this episode we discuss the reasons we blow shofar in Elul, and whether women should make an effort to hear the shofar blown. To read the full article on our site, click here: https://www.deracheha.org/shofar-in-elul/

Talking About Kol Isha with Elena Tal and Nina Tokayer

August 25, 2020 09:08 - 46 minutes - 36.9 MB

In this special bonus episode, we interview Elena Tal and Nina Tokayer about their careers and Kol Isha.  For more on Kol Isha (articles and podcasts) on Deracheha, click here https://www.deracheha.org/constants/#kol-isha Learn more about our guests: Elena Tal - https://www.elenatal.net/ Nina Tokayer (Yonina) - https://www.yoninamusic.com/

Kol Isha III: In Context

August 18, 2020 13:19 - 1 hour - 46.3 MB

In this episode we discuss how contextual factors can affect the application of kol isha, and whether the halacha is different in a religious context. To read the full article, click here https://www.deracheha.org/kol-isha-3-in-context/  

Kol Isha II: Mutual Responsibility

August 08, 2020 21:30 - 48 minutes - 43.8 MB

In this episode we discuss men’s and women’s responsibilities with respect to kol isha, and whether a woman may freely listen to men sing, or sing herself. To read the full article, click here: https://www.deracheha.org/kol-isha-2-mutual-responsibility/

Kol Isha I: Halachic Basis

August 03, 2020 18:12 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MB

In this episode we discuss the halachic basis for the concept of Kol Isha. How does Halacha view song in general? What is of specific concern with kol isha? When and to which type of voice does kol isha apply? To see the sources inside, click here https://www.deracheha.org/kol-isha-1-halachic-basis/

Hallel

July 22, 2020 13:32 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MB

What is Hallel? When is it recited and why? When do women have an obligation to recite Hallel? Read the full article here: https://www.deracheha.org/hallel/

The Three Weeks and the Nine Days

July 13, 2020 18:26 - 35 minutes - 33.3 MB

In this episode we discuss the mourning practices of the period leading up to Tisha B'av, and whether they have particular relevance for women. To read the whole article, click here https://www.deracheha.org/3-weeks-9-days/

Mussaf

July 07, 2020 10:18 - 22 minutes - 21 MB

In this episode we'll discuss women's obligation in Tefillat Mussaf. We'll start by discussing the nature of the mussaf offering and how is it related to the mussaf prayer. From there we'll move on to how this impacts women's obligation in Tefillat Mussaf. To read the sources mentioned in this episode, click here https://www.deracheha.org/mussaf/