Michael Franco
214 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago - ★★★★★ - 7 ratingsLecture series covering various Judaic topics with emphasis on analysis of the Torah
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Episodes
Kohelet Chapter 11: YOLO?: Embracing Youth
May 12, 2021 15:56 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MBHow do we live fully, knowing that life is fleeting? In this chapter, Kohelet provides us with some timeless wisdom regarding enjoyment of youth.
Kohelet Chapter 10: Practical Wisdom
May 05, 2021 15:33 - 1 hour - 55.9 MBIn chapter 10, Kohelet takes on shades of Sefer Mishle -- Proverbs -- providing us with very practical life wisdom.
Kohelet Chapter 9: A Wholesome Life
April 28, 2021 22:31 - 42 minutes - 38.5 MBIn this chapter, Kohelet gives us a beautiful glimpse into his notion of a wholesome life of simple pleasures and honest work. We take the time in the beginning of the class to recap the end of chapter 8, which was cutoff from the previous recording.
Kohelet Chapter 8: Injustice and Theodicy
April 21, 2021 21:55 - 1 hour - 98.6 MBIn this chapter, Kohelet discusses his thoughts on injustice and theodicy. My sincere apologies -- the audio is cut off about midway through.
Kohelet Chapter 7: Patience and Temperance
April 19, 2021 17:49 - 1 hour - 89.9 MB"A good name is better than fragrant oil, and the day of death than the day of birth." In this chapter, Kohelet shares his insights on how best to lead one's life, closing with an intriguing and ironic idea about the root of man's issues -- engaging in too much reasoning.
Yom Ha'Asmaut 2021: Israel: Embracing Life
April 18, 2021 18:36 - 8 minutes - 5.93 MBIn this podcast, we celebrate the essence of everything that Israel represents, drawing an interesting connection to Parashat Tazria'-Mesora'.
Kohelet Chapter 6: What is Worthwhile?
April 12, 2021 20:37 - 1 hour - 73.9 MBIn this class, we delve into the question of what is worthwhile to do in life according to Kohelet. We end with some very profound ideas regarding the phenomenology of existence itself.
Passover 2021: The Heroism of God and Humanity
March 30, 2021 00:50 - 9 minutes - 6.83 MBHow do we respond when we bear witness to the greatest evils that humans are capable of? We turn our attention to the very best that humans have to offer.
Parashat Sav 2021: Gratitude
March 30, 2021 00:47 - 10 minutes - 7.09 MBIn this podcast, we draw the connections between the Korban Todah, or Thanksgiving offering, and the Korban Pesah, or Passover offering. We learn the importance of gratitude in a relationship with God and we share a way of employing practical tools to practice gratitude daily.
Kohelet Chapter 5: The True Path to Happiness
March 25, 2021 18:39 - 1 hour - 75.6 MBIn this chapter, we notice the shift that Kohelet takes, beginning to discuss matters of general wisdom for the remainder of the book. In this class, we emphasize the path that Kohelet lays out towards a life of happiness, assessing which parts we can embrace and which parts we feel come up short.
Kohelet Chapter 4: Human Relationships
March 18, 2021 22:05 - 1 hour - 66.7 MBHuman relationships take many forms, with human dynamics at the heart of so many of our experiences. Here, we delve into the dynamics that play such a strong role in our daily interactions, hearing Kohelet's philosophical take on the meaning or lack of meaning that emerges from these relationships.
Vayaqhel-Pequde 2021: True Redemption
March 14, 2021 00:26 - 13 minutes - 5.86 MBWhat is the meaning of the concept of redemption? It seems that this idea has a double-meaning -- exemplified in both the parasha and in the story of Tuvia Belski -- meanings that are fundamental to understanding the covenant between God and Israel.
Kohelet Chapter 3: Time
March 12, 2021 02:03 - 1 hour - 89.2 MBIn this class, we read chapter 3 of Kohelet together, standing in awe of the beautiful prose of the narrator regarding proper times for different experiences in life. We reflect at length on the lessons to be learned. (Audio is fuzzy briefly in the beginning, but is otherwise clear).
Ki Tissa 2021: True Perfection
March 08, 2021 19:24 - 9 minutes - 4.44 MBIn this week's podcast, we confront the question, "How can an infinite being such as God encounter finite humans? How can God be both immanent and transcendent?" The answer we propose may surprise you.
Kohelet Class 2: Chapter 2: Pleasure and Toil, Wisdom and Folly
March 04, 2021 01:47 - 1 hour - 65.4 MBIn this class, we delve into chapter 2 of Kohelet, as the narrator brings us into his thoughts on the meaninglessness of toil and pleasure alike. We then explore themes on wisdom and folly. As always, we try to notice where it is that the narrator may be erring in his thinking, while making the space for his downbeat tone.
Parashat Tessaveh 2021: In the Details
February 28, 2021 14:38 - 12 minutes - 5.48 MBWhy do we feel that the details of this week's Parasha do not resonate with us? What is the proper way to approach the meaning of the priestly garments and intricate utensils of the mishkan? In this week's podcast, we learn a new way of understanding these questions and the implications for how we can truly appreciate the mundane elements of our lives, apprehending how we can then marvel at the very fact of existence itself.
Rationalism vs. Mysticism
February 26, 2021 01:39 - 56 minutes - 51.6 MBIn this class, we begin to discuss the differences between analyzing Judaism from a rationalist vs. mystical worldview, based on Rabbi Natan Slifkin's book "Rationalism vs. Mysticism." We will continue with this class series in a few months, with God's help.
Kohelet Class 1: Introduction and Chapter 1: A Courageous Pursuit
February 26, 2021 01:26 - 1 hour - 76.2 MBI am very excited to introduce a new class series on Sefer Kohelet (Ecclesiastes)! In this class, we introduce Sefer Kohelet and study chapter 1 with the JPS commentary, alongside insights from psychology, philosophy, and modern sensibilities. Enjoy!
Parashat Yitro 2021: 10% Bee
February 07, 2021 00:01 - 9 minutes - 4.03 MBHumans are indeed selfish creatures. But is that the whole story? In this podcast, we answer this question in the context of Parashat Yitro and explore the meaning of Jonathan Haidt's claim that humans are 10% bee.
Parashat Bo 2021: Larger than the Self
January 23, 2021 23:11 - 8 minutes - 3.97 MBWhat is the meaning of life? In this podcast, we take on this daunting question in the context of the radical shift occurring in ancient Egypt as told in Parashat Bo.
Parashat Vayhi 2020: Meeting Hate with Love
January 03, 2021 00:00 - 8 minutes - 3.7 MBIn this week's podcast, we probe the concepts of compassion and forgiveness, learning new lessons regarding the need for a second forgiveness scene in this week's Parasha.
Hanukkah 2020: How the Light Gets in
December 12, 2020 23:16 - 8 minutes - 3.9 MBIn this podcast, we connect Parashat Vayyesheb and the theme of Hanukkah, noticing the importance of an unwavering sense of identity.
Parashat Hayye Sarah 2020: Eulogy for a Giant
November 16, 2020 01:14 - 9 minutes - 4.34 MBIn this podcast, we reflect on the indelible faith of Rabbi Sacks and Abraham Abinu alike.
Sukkot 2020: Be Like Water
October 05, 2020 00:13 - 7 minutes - 3.51 MBIn this podcast, we explain the meaning of the water ceremony of Sukkot, noticing that it points to some of the most fundamental ontological questions of life.
Yom Kippur 2020: Spiritual Nourishment
September 27, 2020 00:27 - 11 minutes - 5.2 MBIn this podcast, we explore Isaiah 51 and delve into the inner life of the soul that we are meant to cultivate on Yom Kippur.
Spiritual Living: A Practical Guide: Part 2
May 21, 2020 00:19 - 1 hour - 32.5 MBIn this class, we continue to dive deep into the 10 tenets of a mature spiritual life according to Jack Kornfield's A Path with Heart. We take notice of the connections to Jewish tradition, appreciating that modern spiritual wisdom is often in line with ancient lessons.
A Guide to Spiritual Living: A Practical Guide: Part 2
May 21, 2020 00:19 - 1 hour - 32.5 MBIn this class, we continue to dive deep into the 10 tenets of a mature spiritual life according to Jack Kornfield's A Path with Heart. We take notice of the connections to Jewish tradition, appreciating that modern spiritual wisdom is often in line with ancient lessons.
A Practical Guide to Spiritual Living
May 12, 2020 01:19 - 54 minutes - 23.7 MBIn this podcast, Part 1 of 2, we discuss Jack Kornfield's 10 tenets of a mature spiritual life from his book "A Path with Heart." We show that Judaism contains many of the same principles and we notice when and how Judaism seems to diverge from the modern wisdom of today.
Debate with Morris Kishk: The Value of Kohanim
May 11, 2020 21:58 - 34 minutes - 31.6 MBIn this special podcast, I sit down with Morris Kishk to debate the benefits and detriments to having a Priesthood in Israel. You won't want to miss this one!
Parashat Emor Class 2020: About Time: Between Shabbat and Coronavirus
May 05, 2020 04:15 - 44 minutes - 19.6 MBIn this week's class, we explore the importance of Shabbat and its deeper meaning. This proves extra important during the time of Coronavirus, where every day spent at home has a Shabbat-like feel.
Yom HaAsmaut Class: From Joseph to Eddie Jacobson: A Space for God in the Narrative of Our Lives
May 03, 2020 16:44 - 34 minutes - 47.8 MBIn this class, we analyze how it was that Joseph was able to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh by drawing on unique experiences from his personal life. We close with the incredible story of Eddie Jacobson and his role in the establishment of the State of Israel, noticing the similar mindset to that of Joseph.
Parashat Shemini 2020: Burned by the Divine Fire: Psychedelics and the Science of Experiencing God
April 21, 2020 01:00 - 45 minutes - 20.3 MBIn this week's class, we begin by discussing the cutting edge science behind the concept of Divine encounter. We close with the sin of Nadab and Abihu, exploring where exactly they overstepped their bounds.
Passover 2020: The Meaning of Freedom in the Era of Coronavirus
April 07, 2020 00:56 - 50 minutes - 22.3 MBIn this week's class, we explore the text of Parashat Beshallah, noticing the lessons on freedom that emerge. These lessons are of the utmost importance in the era of Coronavirus.
The Symbolism of Hames: A Journey through Archaeology, Psychology, and Torah
April 01, 2020 21:51 - 44 minutes - 40.6 MBIn this class, we utilize a variety of lenses to analyze the symbolism of Hames. With each perspective comes a new layer of meaning that enhances the meaning of this profound misvah.
Between Samuel and Exodus: The Leader God Needs
April 01, 2020 21:40 - 38 minutes - 53.5 MBIn this class, we explore the many literary links between Samuel and Exodus, noticing the invaluable lessons on leadership and how and when it is appropriate to surrender to the flow of life.
Passover 2020: Part I: I am God: The God who Hears our Cries
March 24, 2020 01:43 - 1 hour - 28.1 MBIn this week's class, we begin with the overwhelming display of God revealing His name to the world, giving an insight into the Torah being "of another order" compared to other works of literature. We discuss the symbolism of the ten plagues and close with the symbolism of the signs given to Moses. A וַיְדַבֵּר אֱלֹהִים, אֶל-מֹשֶׁה; וַיֹּאמֶר אֵלָיו, אֲנִי יְהוָה. B וָאֵרָא, אֶל-אַבְרָהָם אֶל-יִצְחָק וְאֶל-יַעֲקֹב--בְּאֵל שַׁדָּי; וּשְׁמִי יְהוָה, לֹא נוֹדַעְתִּי לָהֶם. C וְגַם הֲקִ...
Parashat Ki Tissa 2020: Coronavirus and a TIme of Crisis: Turning Uncertainty into a Unique Opportunity for Growth
March 18, 2020 04:45 - 50 minutes - 23.2 MBIn this week's podcast, we take stock of the situation in the world today, with the United States reeling from the Coronavirus pandemic. We explore the text of the sin of the Golden Calf and we learn many important lessons from the courageous response of Moses. We end with the levels of spiritual growth that became available to Moses and the nation once the crisis had resolved.
Parashat Tessaveh Speech 2020: The One Who Hears
March 08, 2020 00:20 - 10 minutes - 4.44 MBIn this week's Derasha, we analyze the brilliant book The Untethered Soul by Michael Singer. We relate its teachings to the Parasha and to Megillat Esther, noticing the powerful message that emerges from the comparison.
Parashat Terumah Class 2020: The Mishkan and Genesis: A Blueprint of Spiritual Growth
February 26, 2020 03:32 - 51 minutes - 22.8 MBIn this week's class, we analyze the concepts of Parashat Terumah and notice the intriguing connections with Genesis. We end with a discussion of meditation and mindfulness.
Parashat Mishpatim 2020: Ascending the Mountain of Spiritual Development
February 23, 2020 00:02 - 14 minutes - 6.54 MBIn this week's class, we analyze the end of Parashat Mishpatim and its connection to the words of Carl Jung: "Beware of wisdom you have not earned."
Parashat Yitro Speech 2020: The Wonders of God and the Wonders of Childhood
February 15, 2020 23:43 - 6 minutes - 3.03 MBIn this week's speech, we ask the question, "Why don't we see open miracles from God like we saw in the Bible?" We close with a discussion of Albert Einstein's "the mysterious."
Parashat Yitro Class 2020: A Peak Experience
February 12, 2020 05:52 - 50 minutes - 22.6 MBIn this week's class, we analyze the Parasha with an eye for the miraculous. We open with the lessons of Yitro and we close with the lessons of the experience at Sinai.
Parashat Beshallah Class 2020: The Exodus and Building a New Identity
February 05, 2020 13:05 - 53 minutes - 23.4 MBIn this week's class, we read through portions from Parashat Beshallah, noticing the process of the Exodus, as well as the challenges that come along with building a new identity.
Parashat Bo Speech: Forever a Student
February 01, 2020 23:29 - 7 minutes - 3.55 MBIn this week's podcast, we discuss the idea of being a student. We continue by exploring the process of the exodus from Egypt and the symbolism of Hamess and Massah.
Parashat Vayhi: Closing off Genesis: Flashbacks and Success Stories
January 13, 2020 02:20 - 11 minutes - 5.23 MBIn this week's podcast, we study an interesting cluster of flashbacks from the beginning of Parashat Vayhi. We finish with the final triumphant words regarding Yoseph and we show how they are emblematic of the covenant in its fullness.
Parashat Vayyiggash: Joseph and the Art of Being Human
January 04, 2020 23:04 - 9 minutes - 4.18 MBIn this podcast, we ask the question: What does it mean to be human? We answer this question through an analysis of the timeless work Tuesdays with Morrie, as well as the moving story of Yoseph and his brothers.
Parashat Miqqes Class: Right There with You: How God Speaks with us Today
December 25, 2019 03:52 - 47 minutes - 21.1 MBIn this class, we show the incredible way that Joseph figured out how to interpret the dreams of Pharaoh and the implications for how we can notice God's communication with us in our very own lives.
Parashat Vayyesheb Class: Growing Character and a Tap on the Shoulder by the Almighty
December 18, 2019 03:28 - 54 minutes - 24.2 MBIn this week's class, we introduce the story of Joseph and point out the incredible structure of his life. We also delve into the struggles and triumphs of Judah.
Parashat Vayyishlah Class: The Man in the Arena
December 11, 2019 03:43 - 47 minutes - 43.9 MBIn this week's class, we read through the first half of the parasha, noticing the tremendous growth of Jacob, who must confront a part of himself in order to grow into a new person.
Parashat Vayyese Speech: The Right Question
December 07, 2019 22:44 - 8 minutes - 7.38 MBIn this podcast, we explain what it was that truly made Yaaqob an outstanding individual: he was not afraid to ask the difficult questions.