Stories We Tell
164 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 4 years ago - ★★★★★ - 96 ratingsJudaism has a deep and rich tradition of storytelling, of passing down stories from one generation to the next. To carry on that tradition, Stories We Tell, from ReformJudaism.org, will share a new story with you every Thursday. Whether you listen while driving to work, preparing Shabbat dinner, or taking your kids to school, each episode will give you a new story to reflect on and discuss with the people in your life.
Stories We Tell is a project of the Union for Reform Judaism, a leading voice in the discussion of modern Jewish life.
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Episodes
The Watchman
July 18, 2019 09:00 - 3 minutes - 7.27 MBSeveral merchants are traveling through town when Yohanan, a local villager, offers to give them room and board. The merchants fear their goods will be stolen if they don’t guard them during the night, but Yohanan assures them that the mysterious Watchman will assist them. Listen in as Lisa Langer shares the story of The Watchman, and reminds us that sometimes the best gift is what we give, and not what we get. You can also check out a version of this tale in Barbara Diamond Goldin’s book Cr...
The Feather Pillow
July 11, 2019 09:00 - 4 minutes - 9.86 MBWhat’s the difference between a story and gossip? Sometimes all it takes is a clever rabbi and an open window to find the answer. Join Ari Mosbacher as they share the tale of a man, a rumor and The Feather Pillow.
A Family's Gift
July 04, 2019 09:00 - 4 minutes - 11 MBA treasured gift, wrapped in more than just love, is passed down through Yoesel's family, from generation to generation. Listen in as Michelle Shapiro Abraham tells the story of the gift and what happens when it's finally revealed.
Two Visits to the Palace
June 27, 2019 09:00 - 3 minutes - 8.6 MBHow do you see beauty? Rabbi Leora Kaye tells the story of Adam and Joshua’s visit to the palace. While they each see something special and amazing in their individual experiences, it’s what they learn to see, through each other’s eyes, that’s truly beautiful.
The Window Box
June 20, 2019 09:00 - 3 minutes - 7.87 MBA woman, walking with her wife around Manhattan, hears a cricket. How could she have heard a cricket among all of the New York City noise? Cantor Rosalie Boxt, URJ Director of Worship tells the story. For a written version of this story, by Rabbi David E. Stern, read Three Times Chai: 54 Rabbis Tell Their Favorite Stories edited by Laney Katz Becker.
How To Fix The World
June 13, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 12.1 MBWe all want to make the world a little better, but as it turns out, it’s not always easy. Join Aliza Greenberg, as she tells the tale of Abigail and Ella, two women who try, try and try again, to make the world perfect, in their own eyes.
The Two Who Studied Torah
June 06, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 12.1 MBAaron and David love studying Torah, and even want it to be their livelihood. But a truth-telling rabbi may send them down a different path. Join Rabbi Leora Kaye as she tells a story which reminds us that we can sometimes reach our dream destination by traversing an unexpected path.
The Laughing Rabbi
May 30, 2019 09:00 - 7 minutes - 16.9 MBHave you ever been so overwhelmed with a feeling that you just have to laugh? Have you ever experienced a situation where you thought you knew what was happening, and then realized you didn’t? Listen to this story by Michelle Shapiro Abraham to find out why the rabbi laughed, and what his students learned.
The Story of The Hungry Boy
May 23, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 11.5 MBA hungry boy going through a tough time looks for help from his community. Knowing they don’t have much to spare themselves, they hide their resources. Listen to this story by Jerry Kaye to find out what can happen when you make an unfair assumption.
Why Noah Chose the Dove
May 16, 2019 09:00 - 4 minutes - 11.2 MBAs the Great Flood was approaching, animals lined up to make their case to Noah about why they should get a spot on the ark: strength, size, cleverness, skill… listen to this story by Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro to see why Noah chose the Dove.
Elijah’s Gift
May 09, 2019 09:00 - 7 minutes - 16.2 MBWhat would you do if a stranger offered you all the money in the world? What would you do if you were offered your heart's desire? Would you share your gift, or keep it for yourself? One man and his wife are given the ultimate choice to make when a stranger makes them this exact offer. Listen to this story as told by Rabbi Mark Dov Shapiro to find out what happens.
When the Clocks Stop
May 02, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 5.12 MBIn a town in Eastern Europe many years ago, all of the clocks mysteriously stopped working at the same time. The townspeople tried many different methods, but after years they still couldn’t get the clocks to work again. So, what happens when a clock expert visits the town? Listen to this story, retold by Rabbi Marc Katz, to find out.
Three Rabbis Along the Way
April 25, 2019 09:00 - 3 minutes - 8.93 MBThree rabbis who pass by a town that has fallen on hard times each respond in a different way. Has there been a time when you changed your approach to do something better? Listen to the story told by Rabbi Leora Kaye, URJ Director of Program, to see what they learn from each other.
God is Missing
April 18, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 12.6 MBTwo brothers, Jesse and Bryan, got into trouble almost everywhere they went. At one point, their mother sent them to a rabbi, who asked them "where's God?" - causing panic in one of the brothers. Why do you think the panic ensued? You will hear the answer in this story told by Rabbi Evon Yakar of Temple Bat Yam in South Lake Tahoe, and North Tahoe Hebrew Congregation of Tahoe Vista, CA.
The Farmer and the Horse
April 11, 2019 09:00 - 3 minutes - 6.9 MBOnce, there lived a farmer who had a horse that he loved. But the horse kept getting injured, and the farmer kept trying to heal his horse. What was causing the problem - and how did he address the source of his horse's recurrent injury? This story is told by Rabbi Michael Namath, the Director of Leadership Development at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism.
The Power Of Shabbat
April 04, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 12.5 MBA man walking on Shabbat comes across a bag of gold. Again and again, the bag of gold pleads with the man to take him home - how much good he could do with it! But the man refuses. Why would he do that and what does he end up with as his reward? And is there something you care about so much that you would miss a golden opportunity? This story is shared by Rabbi Leora Kaye, Director of Program for the Union For Reform Judaism.
Learning About What Matters
March 28, 2019 09:00 - 3 minutes - 7.51 MBHow do you decide which of your actions matter? Can you repair damage you've done? Do you focus on what you avoid, or what you achieve? Listen to this story shared from a group of NFTY Convention 2019 participants. You can find a version of this story online at kidsworldfun.com.
Ezra's Sparkle
March 21, 2019 09:00 - 5 minutes - 11.7 MBRabbi Shapiro shares the story of Ezra, who tried and tried to find his special talent. Listen to find out what he learned. Do you know what it is you do best? How did you find it?
Honesty's Reward
March 14, 2019 09:00 - 4 minutes - 10 MBA poor man returned a rich man's money, trusting that because of honesty and honor he would receive a reward. Things didn't go as planned when the miserly rich man tried to dodge his responsibility - for either of them! Has there been a time when being honest paid off in an unsual way?
What Is Permanent
March 07, 2019 10:00 - 4 minutes - 10.5 MBHow do you act when your friend hurts your feelings? How do you remember when your friend helps you out?
Made to Hug
February 28, 2019 10:00 - 5 minutes - 13.5 MBThe Torah always written on a scroll. Why is that? Why isn't it written in the sky or on the trees for everyone to see an admire? It turns out that the scroll is the perfect shape for one special reason.
Do You See The Big Picture?
February 21, 2019 10:00 - 3 minutes - 8.92 MBSometimes, it takes time to understand. In this story, two brothers learn how time is necessary to a farmer's work. Was there ever a time you needed to let something grow in order to see what it might turn into?
Chaim's Heart
February 14, 2019 10:00 - 8 minutes - 19.2 MBThere was once a little boy who really disliked school, and wouldn't learn. But one thing changed his life - and his heart - forever. Have you ever had a pivotal life-changing moment?
Bundle of Sticks
February 07, 2019 10:00 - 3 minutes - 9.09 MBThere was once a group of friends who were very close. But as they grew up, each went their separate ways. They came together for one last time, and they learned that alone, they can be easily broken; but bundled together, they are stronger than they ever were alone.
A Drop of Honey
January 31, 2019 10:00 - 3 minutes - 8.64 MBThere was once a king and his minister who were eating crackers with honey. When the king spilled a drop, he stopped his minister from cleaning it up, dismissing it as an issue that was not their problem. A surprising chain of events happened, making them – and us - question the nature of responsibility.
The Brisket
January 24, 2019 10:00 - 4 minutes - 11.1 MBThere once was a rabbi who traveled to many cities, and he was often invited to stay and have meals wherever he went. Everyone was very hospitable and would ask him what he liked. However, they would then serve him the one thing he said he didn’t like: brisket! Listen to this story find out why this happened everywhere he went, and what we can learn from his experience.
The spoonful of oil
January 17, 2019 10:00 - 3 minutes - 8.94 MBThere was a young man who wanted to learn the secret of happiness. He sought out the advice of a wise man, who was too busy to talk with him at that moment but gave him a task: walk around and carry a spoon with two drops of oil and be careful to not let them spill. Listen to find out how this seemingly strange assignment taught the boy an important lesson.
The Stolen Smell
January 10, 2019 10:00 - 5 minutes - 11.7 MBJacob was poor, and had only a piece of bread to eat. Setting out in search of something to put on it, he happened upon a steaming pot of soup in the kitchen of an inn. Though tempted to steal a little, he stopped himself from doing so, and instead enjoyed the wonderful aroma. It was then that the innkeeper caught him and insisted on being paid for the smell. They went to the rabbi to settle the dispute… and his answer may surprise you.
The Brother And The Car
January 03, 2019 10:00 - 2 minutes - 4.03 MBA man was very proud of his new car—it was sleek, new, and everything about it screamed luxury and comfort. One day, the man sees a young boy looking at the car, so he starts a conversation and tells the boy that it was a gift from his brother. The boy was shocked, but what the boy says next is a bigger surprise to the man. Listen to Cantor Ellen Dreskin retell the story, and for a written version, see A Brother Like That in Chicken Soup for the Soul: 20th Anniversary Edition.
The Wedding Gift
December 27, 2018 10:00 - 4 minutes - 6.29 MBWhen the king’s daughter gets engaged, he plans an elaborate and exquisite wedding for her. Most importantly, the king tells his oldest son that he’ll cover any expenses as long as the son shows up in the most amazing carriage, wearing the most elegant clothing and jewelry, and with his younger brother in tow, all in honor of the bride. Does the older son earn this gift from the king, or does he fall short? Rabbi Marc Katz retells the story.
Who Is Your Teacher?
December 20, 2018 10:00 - 4 minutes - 10 MBThis is the tale of a rabbi who spent his whole life studying and teaching Torah. As he became a well-known and beloved teacher, he started to think highly of himself. One day he had a dream that he was visited by an angel, who predicted that, in the “world to come,” a local baker would be appointed as his heavenly attendant. Disappointed in what he perceived as her lowly status, he sought out the baker… and made a surprising discovery. This story, retold by Rabbi Leora Kaye, will make you ...
Five Minutes
December 13, 2018 10:00 - 4 minutes - 10.6 MBOne morning Lisa woke up extra hungry, and her mom told her that she would have breakfast ready in five minutes. While she waited, Lisa put on her clothes and got dressed, but the five minutes still hadn’t passed. Time was moving so slowly! Later that day, while she was playing at her friend David’s house, her mom called her home in the middle of the game they were playing to eat lunch. Time moved so quickly! Why did that happen? Jerry Kaye retells the story.
Just Count on Yourself
December 06, 2018 10:00 - 3 minutes - 7.77 MBOne day, a girl was frustrated because somebody had shoved her on the subway. Another day, she was frustrated because another girl said something rude to her at school. Both times, the girl didn’t say anything to the person who frustrated her—and in this, her parents found an important lesson. Rabbi Leora Kaye retells the story. A written version of this story can be found in Stories for Public Speakers by Morris Mandel.
Elijah and the Old Man
November 29, 2018 10:00 - 5 minutes - 12.2 MBAn old, blind man lived in the country with his wife, and they enjoyed each other’s company and their lives together. One day, while the man was sitting by the river, Elijah saw him there and decided to give him one wish. Unsure of what to wish for, the man took some time to think about it. He asked his wife and his friends for advice, but wasn’t satisfied with their ideas. What did he finally decide? Jerry Kaye retells the story. You can find a written version of this story in Experiencing ...
Elijah and the Old Man
November 29, 2018 10:00 - 5 minutes - 12.2 MBAn old, blind man lived in the country with his wife, and they enjoyed each other’s company and their lives together. One day, while the man was sitting by the river, Elijah saw him there and decided to give him one wish. Unsure of what to wish for, the man took some time to think about it. He asked his wife and his friends for advice, but wasn’t satisfied with their ideas. What did he finally decide? Jerry Kaye retells the story. You can find a written version of this story in Experiencing ...
Who Is Watching
November 22, 2018 10:00 - 5 minutes - 12.7 MBRabbi Rachel lives in a big city, and every once in a while when the hustle and bustle catches up to her, she takes the train a few hours away to reconnect with nature. During one of these trips, her taxi driver asks for some help—he wants to steal some food from a farm, and wants Rabbi Rachel to shout if she sees anyone watching. What does Rabbi Rachel do? Rabbi Ben David, the senior rabbi at Adath Emanu-El in Mount Laurel, NJ retells the story.
Sparks Of Light
November 15, 2018 10:00 - 3 minutes - 7.29 MBAt the beginning of time, the Earth was wild and full of darkness—and then, in a moment, a voice shocked through the darkness: “Let there be light.” Shira Kline retells the story. For a written version of this story, see The Shattering of the Vessels and The Gathering of the Sparks, in “The Jewish Story Finder” by Sharon Barcan Elswit.
Hero Israel
November 08, 2018 10:00 - 4 minutes - 10.6 MBSara is a great listener. She listens to everything, with her mind like a sponge soaking up as much teaching as possible—but sometimes she hears things a little differently than others. What happens when her classmates find out? Rabbi Josh Weinberg tells his original story.
The Princess and The Pearl
November 01, 2018 09:00 - 2 minutes - 6.45 MBThe King isn’t sure which of his daughters he will name queen, so he gives them a test: each gets a special pearl, and whoever makes the most impressive choice about what to do with it will become queen. While two of his daughters hide the pearl away for safekeeping, the third sells her pearl for food and medicine for a family in need. Which one becomes queen? Marissa Solomon, the Digital Communications Producer at the URJ tells the story. For a written version of this story, see The King’s ...
Only One Thing
October 25, 2018 09:00 - 2 minutes - 4.97 MBA child asks her rabbi, “What are Jewish people supposed to do when we get together?” The rabbi responds, “Jewish people should study Talmud.” But what if not every Jewish person knows Talmud? Shira Kline answers the question and retells the story.
Yankele and the Shabbat Treasure
October 18, 2018 09:00 - 4 minutes - 9.81 MBOne night, Yankele has the most amazing dream about finding buried treasure in the corner of his yard. He doesn’t think it means anything until he has the dream again, and again, and again. Finally, one Shabbat Yankele goes to the corner of his yard and digs, and sure enough, he finds the most magnificent treasure—but it disappears after 24 hours! Listen to the story to find out what happened and why. Rabbi Josh Weinberg tells his original story.
Turn your Shoes Around (Paradise)
October 11, 2018 09:00 - 6 minutes - 9.45 MBA man has become so unhappy with his life that he decides to leave everything behind and live the rest of his days in paradise. It’s a two day journey, so when he stops for the night he points his shoes in the direction he needs to continue on in the morning. Somehow, the shoes get turned around overnight! Does he ever make it to paradise? Cantor Rosalie Boxt retells the story. For a similar version of this story, see When Shelmiel Went to Warsaw in “The Jewish Story Finder: A Guide to 668 ...
Who Are You?
October 04, 2018 09:00 - 4 minutes - 6.78 MBReb Zusya was especially beloved by his students. He was known for his kind heart, gentle voice, and his famous teaching: Listen to the still small voice inside you. One day, Reb Zusya didn’t show up for class. His students went to his home and found him ill, huddled under his covers, unable to get up. But, he was not too ill to leave them with one final lesson. Shira Kline retells the story. A written version of the story can be found in Partners with God by Gila Gevirtz.
Etrog As Big As A Horse
September 27, 2018 09:00 - 5 minutes - 8 MBIsaac’s favorite holiday was Sukkot, and his favorite part of Sukkot was the etrog. He always bought the biggest etrog he could afford, and he dreamed of even bigger ones. One year he had saved up for the biggest and most beautiful etrog, and on his way to buy it, he saw a man crying on the side of the road. What happened next? Rabbi Mark Kaiserman retells the story. For a similar version of this story, see So What? in “The Jewish Story Finder: A Guide to 668 Tales Listing Subjects and Sourc...
Knowing What Is Being Said.
September 20, 2018 09:00 - 5 minutes - 8.91 MBThere was a rabbi who had been with his community for a long time. The community loved learning from him, and he loved teaching them. But one Shabbat, the rabbi could not figure out what he wanted to teach. So, he asked his community: “After this week of so many things happening, I’m sure you all know what I planned to tell you, right?” Rabbi Leora Kaye retells the story. For a written version, see Three Sabbaths in “The Essential Jewish Stories,” collected, annotated, and retold by Seymour ...
Lift Up Your Eyes
September 13, 2018 09:00 - 3 minutes - 5.79 MBRivka and Samuel were two of the Israelites who left Egypt after being freed from bondage, and because they grew up as slaves, they only knew how to look down. Many of the slaves who left Egypt looked up in wonder during their journey, but not Rivka and Samuel. Do they ever learn to look up, or do they continue on, missing miracles? Cantor Rosalie Boxt retells the classic story. You can find a written version of the story in [italics: Capturing the Moon - Classic and Modern Jewish Tales] ret...
Happiness
September 06, 2018 09:00 - 4 minutes - 7.68 MBOnce upon a time a king fell seriously ill, and nobody could figure out how to cure his ailment. Finally, a healer suggested a remedy: if the king could wear the shirt of a person who was absolutely happy, he would be healed. So, a team set out to find a person who was absolutely happy. Did they succeed? Shira Kline, performance and ritual artist and director of worship at Lab/Shul retells the story.
The Silent Duel
August 30, 2018 09:00 - 4 minutes - 7.64 MBThere was a sultan who thought he was the smartest man in the entire kingdom, but one day he heard talk of how smart the Jewish people were. The sultan still didn't buy it. He knew that the Jewish people were smart when it came to words, but how would they fare in a silent duel? Rabbi Mark Kaiserman retells the story. For a written version, see [italics: The Language of Signs] in "The Jewish Story Finder" by Sharon Barcan Elswit.
The Three Sticks
August 23, 2018 09:00 - 7 minutes - 11.2 MBThree friends, each with their own special skill, make Shabbat together every week—that is, until they get lost in the woods without time to find their way out before Shabbat begins. Luckily, they find a cottage inhabited by an old woman who magically sets up for Shabbat in an instant. The woman tells the three friends that they, too, can magically prepare for Shabbat, but only if they find and bring her back the exact right apple. Can they do it? Rabbi Phyllis Sommer, Director of Congregati...
An Unforgettable Trip
August 16, 2018 09:00 - 9 minutes - 14.8 MBTwo students of the Baal Shem Tov were preparing for a trip Israel, and asked for his blessing, which he gave them with one caveat: if they were to meet anyone who asked them a specific question, they must answer the question sincerely. The students didn’t think much of this until they returned home and detailed their trip to the Baal Shem Tov. Did they meet his request? Rabbi Josh Weinberg retells the classic story, which was told to him by Baruch Kraus.