Kol Ramah

Take a listen as Omer and Ben of Radio Kol Ramah get to speak to campers and staff as the buses pull up for the start of Kayitz 2023!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky Parashat Korach [Numbers 16-18] is one of the few parashiyot [weekly Torah readings] to take the name of a person. The Book of Numbers itself has two others, next week with half of Chukkat-Balak and the following week with Pinchas. Korach, a cousin of Moses and Aaron, leads a rebellion against their authority. Jaccob Milgrom, in his JPS Commentary on Numbers, identifies the strands of at least four separate rebellions which are fused together in the parashah this week. In our conversation we try to untangle Korach’s complaint. Is it in anyway justified? Give a listen and let us know what you think below in the comments or at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Sh’lach L’kha [Numbers 13-15] neatly divides into two uneven sections: the story of the spies [13-14] and, as Jacob Milgrom describes it in his JPS Commentary on Numbers, a miscellany of laws. The end of the miscellany is the passage on tzitzit, which became well known as the 3rd paragraph of the Shema. There is a connection between the spies and the tzitzit passage; both contain variation of the Hebrew root “tur”, meaning “to scout” or “to follow”, and zanah, perhaps euphemistically, “to follow one’s lustful urge” or “to be led astray”. Our conversation focused mostly on the spies, which for the rabbis was one of the great catastrophes of biblical history. They imagine it as the first of a series events which took place on the 9th of Av [cf. Mishnah Ta’anit 4:6]. Like many another story in the Bible, it is endlessly fascinating. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat B’ha’alot’kha [Numbers 8-12], the third parashah in Numbers, covers a lot of ground. To name just a few topics, there is the lighting of the menorah [Numbers 8:1-4]; the ritual purification of the Levites so they might perform their duties with the Tabernacle [Numbers 8:5-22]; the Second Passover [9:1-14], which allows those who are in a state of ritual impurity or too far from the Temple at the time of the First Passover to participate in this great national celebration; the guidance in the wilderness [Numbers 10:29-36] provided by Hobab, the name given here for the figure known elsewhere as Jethro (father-in-law of Moses), and the Ark, including the two verses separated by the inverted nuns [the 14th letter of the Hebrew alphabet], the complaints at Taberah [11:1-3] and Kibbroth-Hattaavah [4-35], which includes Moses complaining to God about his burden, God providing for 70 elders to assist Moses, and God providing a month’s worth of quail to satisfy the people’s demand for meat; and the passage about Aaron and Miriam challenging the authority of Moses [chapter 12]. Even though this list seems exhaustive, there are things left out! Our conversation is perhaps not so wide-ranging, but worth a listen nevertheless. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Naso [Numbers 4:21–7:89] is the second parashah in the Book of Numbers. It contains the longest single chapter in the Torah [7, with 89 verses], and at 176 verses, is also the longest single parashah of the year. In fact, it has the most letters, the most words, and the most lines in the Torah scroll of any single parashah. For content, it contains the conclusion of the levitical census, detailing the count of Levites between 30 and 50, and the responbilities of each of these families when the Tabernacle must be taken down in order for the camp to move. It take up some matters related to the purification of the camp, the ritual for the woman suspected of adultery, the ritual of the Nazir [the man or woman who takes upon him or herself extra religious obligations], the priestly blessing, and, the lengthy description of the tribal gifts to the Tabernacle. Because this week Eliot’s family welcomed his first grandchild, a daughter born to his son and daughter-in-law, we talked about the significance of that event for Eliot, which led to a discussion of the priestly blessing and the meaning of ritual. We welcome your comments, either here or at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. With the onset of Shavuot Thursday night it is another early edition of Parashah Talk. In the Diaspora [outside the Land of Israel], the 2nd day of Shavuot on Shabbat preempts the weekly Torah reading, so that Israel will be a week ahead for a number of weeks. Our show is devoted to an exploration of Shavuot, which comes with its own set of Torah readings, haftarot, customs such as eating dairy, and the all-night study session known as Tiqqun Lail Shavuot. We discuss Revelation and what it might mean to us and how one might best understand the holiday as a celebration of Revelation. Along the way we discuss some other aspects of the holiday as well. With best wishes for a Chag Same’ach and Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk - with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. It’s an early edition of Parashah Talk this week. It turns out we all have lives outside of Parashah Talk which affects the day we record. So we open up the Book of Numbers on a Monday, with Parashat Bemidbar [Numbers 1:1–4:20]. There is more to discuss than one might first realize; we hardly got much beyond the first few verses! Let us know what you think here or at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat B’har-B’chukotai [Leviticus 25-27] concludes the Book of Leviticus. Leviticus is the shortest book in terms of chapters [27], and the fewest in parashiyot [10, tied with Numbers], but takes as few as 7 weeks to read when all of its potentially doubled parashiyot are in fact doubled, as is the case this year. B’har opens with a description of the sabbatical year and the jubilee year, which led to a discussion of time and how we mark it and find meaning in its passage. Our discussion, as is so often the case, meandered: we mentioned the Rebuke [Leviticus 26:14-45] and the double ending of the book, since the last verse in chapters 26 and 27 are virtually identical. Sinai looms large in the book and the parashah, as does, in at least one reading, the relationship between time and space. In the synagogue, when we conclude a book of the Torah, we say chazzak, chazzak, ve-nitchazzek. Let us be strong, let us be strong, and we shall be strengthened!

Parsha Talk: with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Emor [Leviticus 21-24] further develops the theme of holiness which is at the core of the Holiness Code [Leviticus 17-26]. The parashah begins with restrictions on kohanim [priests], on whom they marry, whom they mourn, what physical characteristics prevent them from serving. Chapter 23 is the Book of Leviticus’ sacred calendar, which is always worth studying, especially in comparison with the calendars in Exodus [23:14-19 & 34:18-26], Numbers [28-29], and Deuteronomy [16:1-17]. The parashah concludes with chapter 24, a miscellany of laws, including the incident of the blasphemer and the determination of what to do with him, and one of the three appearances in the Torah of the lex talion [law of revenge, better known perhaps as “eye for an eye”]. We opened the show with a tribute to Rabbi Harold Kushner, who went to his eternal home last week. We welcome comments below or at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. This week is another double parashah, Aharai Mot-Q’doshim [Leviticus 16-20], which features a description of Yom Kippur, and in particular the ritual of the goat sent to Azazel, and the beginning of the Holiness Code [Leviticus 17-26]. The Holiness Code develops the idea of holiness as it pertains to the priests and the people Israel in general. What does it mean to be a holy people? How is it possible to become a nation of priests? What do we expect of the modern state of Israel, a pertinent question as we record on Yom Ha-atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day. Give a listen! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. This Shabbat features not only the weekly parasha, Tazria-Metsora [Leviticus 12-15], but also a maftir [Numbers 28:9-15] and haftarah [Isaiah 66] for Rosh Chodesh, the beginning of the new month of Iyar whose first day is this Saturday. In addition, it is the Shabbat preceding Yom Ha-Zikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, and Yom Ha-atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day. The parashah describes the rituals for childbirth [ch. 12], the disease commonly referred to as leprosy in humans and its manifestation in clothing and in houses [chapter 13-14], and bodily discharges [chapter 15]. These are not the topics that normally provide rich conversation, so we devote the first half of the show to the meaning we might find in these chapters. In the second half, we discuss new rituals for Yom Ha-atzma’ut and how we might understand the religious signficance of the day. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. The parashah this week is Sh’mini [Leviticus 8-11], but we recorded on the 5th day of Passover, the third of the four intermediate days before the concluding holiday resumes on Tuesday evening. So, Passover was still on our mind. We began our discussion by talking about Yizkor; recited on the last day of Passover [and also on the 2nd day of Shavuot, Sh’mini Atzeret, and Yom Kippur]. Our conversation meandered, taking in the story of the untimely deaths of Nadav and Avihu, the older two of Aaron’s four sons [Leviticus 10:1-7], the upcoming observances after Passover, beginning with Yom Ha’Shoah [Holocaust Commemoration Day] on Tuesday, the 18th, and continuing with Yom HaZikkaron [Israel’s Memorial Day] and Yom Ha’atzma’ut [Israel’s Independence Day] the following week, on the 26th and 27th. The Book of Job also entered our conversation. So the tone was perhaps more somber than we had anticipated when we first started to talk. We hope you find it meaningful! With best wishes for a Chag Same’ach and Shabbat Shalom, depending on when you find this post!!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. While the Torah reading this week, Tzav [Leviticus 6–8], continues with a description of the principal sacrifices from the priests’ point of view [chapters 6–7] and a description of the inauguration of the Tabernacle [chapter 8], we went in a different direction. In anticipation of the upcoming festival of Passover, we discussed the six haftarot that mark the holiday: the haftarah for Shabbat Hagadol this week [Malachi 3:4–24], followed in turn by the haftarah for the 1st day from Joshua [5:2–6:1, 6:27], the 2nd day from 2 Kings [23:1–9, ,21–25], Shabbat Chol Ha-mo’ed from Ezekiel [37:1–14], the 7th day from 2 Samuel [22:1–51], and the 8th day from Isaiah [10:32–12:6]. It was a lot of page turning and a lot of fun. We hope you enjoy! We will be taking a week off for Passover, and will return in two weeks for Parashat Sh’mini. Shabbat Shalom and Chag Same’ach!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yiqra [Leviticus 1–5] begins the Book of Levitcus. However, it is quite possible, as we discuss, to read Leviticus as a seamless continuation of the end of Exodus. These first 5 chapters take up the description of the 5 principal sacrifices in ancient Israel. While sacrifice is quite foreign to most of us, and I suspect not many among us are eager to see the building of the Third Temple in our lifetime so we can reinstitute animal sacrifice, the chapters can still be read for profit in our own day. We spend sometime on the opening verses, and not just the first verse, and discuss the meaning of sacrifice both then and now. We hope you enjoy! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yaqhel-P’qudai [Exodus 35–40], a double portion, concludes the reading of the Book of Exodus in the synagogue. This year it coincides with Shabbat Ha-Hodesh, observed on Shabbat Rosh Hodesh Nisan, or on the Shabbat when the new month of Nisan is announced, as is the case this year. The month of Nisan officially begins on Wednesday night, March 22, so that Passover, and the first seder, begins two weeks later on April 5. Shabbat Ha-Hodesh has a special maftir [Exodus 12:1–20] and haftarah [Ezekiel 45:16–46:18]. The Torah reading primarily concerns itself with the execution of the mishkan, or Tabernacle. Whereas T’rumah and T’tzavveh concern themselves with the description of how the mishkan will be built, this week’s parashiyot concern themselves with the actual building. Last week’s parashah, Ki Tissa, features the tragedy of the Golden Calf. In our conversation this week we seek to understand the precise nature of the tragedy, and what it might mean to be placed, quite deliberately, between the description of how to build the mishkan and its actual building. We also discuss the significance of the maftir, a description of Pesach mitzrayim, the observance on that fateful night in Egypt, as opposed to Pesach le-dorot, Pesach as it is supposed to be observed in subsequent years. As always, comments, critiques, and questions are welcome here and at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Ki Tissa [Exodus 30:11–34:35] this year coincides with Shabbat Parah, the third special Shabbat before Passover, with a special maftir [Numbers 19] and haftarah [Ezekiel 36:16–38]. The parashah is perhaps best known for the episode of the Golden Calf, perhaps the greatest sin in the history of the Israelite people, and its aftermath. It is part of a larger them on the presence and absence of God, and how we live in a world where God’s presence is not guaranteed. We gave a shout-out to Purim, since that is when we recorded, and we may have touched on some other things as well. As always, comments and criticisms are welcome here and at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat T’tzavveh [Exodus 27:20–30:10] coincides this year with Shabbat Zachor, the Shabbat before Purim [observed Monday night and Tuesday, March 6 & 7], which takes its name from the first word of the special maftir [Deuteronomy 25:17-19], with its call to remember what Amalek did to the Israelites when they left Egypt, and to blot them out once safely ensconced in the borders ot the Land of Israel. The parashah itself continues the description of the plans for the Ohel Mo’ed [Tent of Meeting]. We discussed some of the parashah and some relatively randomly chosen verses from the Book of Esther, in anticipation of Purim! We hope you enjoy. Shabbat Shalom and Hag Purim Same’ach!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat T’rumah [Exodus 25:1–27:19] begins the lengthy description of the plans for and building of the mishkan [tabernacle, or dwelling-place for God], which will take up most of the rest of the Book of Exodus. We focused on a few verses, in particular 25:8 [And let them make Me a sanctuary that I many dwell among them] and 25:22 [There I will meet with you, and I will impart to you—from above the cover, from between the two cherubim that are on the top of the Ark of the Pact—all that I will command you concerning the Israelite people], as well as discussing the purpose of the structure itself in the religious life of the people, then and now. As always, comments are welcome here or at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Welcome to Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. It is an early edition of Parashah Talk, since Eliot is flying to Israel today. Parashat Mishpatim [Exodus 21-24] features the Covenant Code, the first major law code embedded in the Torah. Its literary style, nearly all law, represents a major break from the previous 20 chapters, which have been largely narrative. This enabled us to discuss law in general as well as some specific laws. This week is also Parashat Sheqalim [Exodus 30:11–16], the first fo the 4 special shabbatot before Passover, each with its own maftir [additional reading] and haftarah [prophetic reading]. We did not have time to discuss it, but be forewarned, Passover will be here before you know it. Start cleaning! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Yitro [Exodus 18-20] is the fifth weekly reading of the Book of Exodus. It features the dramatic revelation at Mt. Sinai and the text of the Ten Commandments. Chapter 18, however, has to do with the organization of the judiciary suggested by Yitro, priest of Midian, whom the chapter identifies no less than 13 times as the father-in-law of Moses. In fact, most of the people, whether individuals or nation, are identified in Chapter 18 in relation to Moses. This provides the beginning of our conversation, in which we discuss Yitro himself, and how we might understand his role in Israel’s history, and the Ten Commandments, always a fascinating text. Give a listen and let us know what you think! Shabbat Shalom!!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky with Parsha Talk. Parashat B’shallach [Exodus 13:17–17:16] features the Song of the Sea [15:1–19], the magnificent poem the Torah records as the Israselites’ response to their successful crossing of the Sea of Reeds, allowing them to put their Egyptian experience behind them once and for all. But, there is so much more in the parashah, including the actual splitting of the sea, given both a natural and miraculous explanation, the introduction of manna as the staple of the Israelites’ diet for the next forty years, various complaints, the 1st hitting of the Rock [17:1–7] and the attack of Amalek. 17:8–16]. While we do not cover everything, we hope we do the parashah justice, and that everyone finds something worth hearing. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk-with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Bo [Exodus 10:1–13:16] is the third parashah in Sefer Sh’mot [the Book of Exodus]. In it is recounted the last 3 plagues and the preparations for and celebration of Pesach Mitzrayim, the observance of Passover in Egypt, which will differ from Pesach Le-dorot, the Passover commemorated by future generations. We have the long chapter 12, one of my favorites in the Torah, and the passage at the end [13:1–16], divided by the rabbis into two [13:1-10 and 11–16], which together with the 1st 2 paragraphs of the Sh’ma [Deuteronomy 6:4-9 and 11:13–21 will make up the texts of the t’fillin. We also have the prompts for two of the sons of the Passover Haggadah. It is particularly rich, as I hope you will find our conversation. Comments and criticisms are welcome! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-era [Exodus 6:2–9:35] begins with verses [6{2–3] that feature prominently in modern biblical criticism. “Elohim spoke to Moshe, and He said to him, I am YHVH. And I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob by El Shaddai, and my name YHVH I did not make known to them”. At the very least, God did not appear to the patriarchs in the same way that He appeared to Moshe. For those critically minded, these verses indicate a change in worship. The verses are followed by 3 verses [6–8] which feature in the determination of cups of wine at the Seder. But the parashah is perhaps best known for the 1st seven plagues. Our conversation meandered, sometimes touching on verses, sometimes on comparisons between God and Pharaoh, Moshe and Pharaoh, Moshe and Aaron, sometimes on other topics. We hope you find it rewarding. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Sh’mot [Exodus 1:1–6:1] begins a new Book of the Torah, the Book of Exodus. As Eliot mentions, we move very quickly, in just a few verses, from ish [man] to bayyit [house] to shevet [tribe], to am [nation]. In the opening verses, the family story that concluded the Book of Genesis becomes the national story that will lead, eventually, to the Jewish people. Since we were recording just after the 50th yahrtzeit [anniversary of death] of the late Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel this past Wednesday [18 Tevet, this year 1/11/23], our conversation is peppered with references to Heschel’s teachings. We hope some of you will share yours with us! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yechi [Genesis 47:28–50:26] concludes Book of Genesis. Among the other things that come to an end are the lives of Jacob and then of Joseph. It is, perhaps, a dark ending. A book that begins with the Creation of the world ends with Joseph embalmed and placed in an aron, a box, waiting until his descendants will take his bones up out of Egypt with them when they are redeemed by the mighty hand and outstretched arm of God. The parashah gives us the opportunity to evaluate the life of Joseph, and of Jacob. And, as is the case, it gives us the opportunity to say a few words about the Book of Genesis, and its context within the Torah. Comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yiggash [Genesis 44:18-47:27] is the third installment of the Joseph saga. Joseph finally reveals himself to his brothers and arrangments are made for the entire family to come to Egypt, to take up residence in the Land of Goshen, where they can live apart from the Egyptians but still benefit from Joseph’s position in that society. There are a number of odd comments made by both Jacob and Joseph about the other; we tend to forget that 22 years has elapsed, and neither side has made, apparently, any attempt to find out about the other. And there is the curious genealogy of Jacob’s family who went down to Egypt. This provided us with more than enough to talk about! This is our last Parashat Talk for 2022! We look forward to 2023 as another year of conversation about the weekly Torah Reading Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Miqqetz [Genesis 41:1-44:17] is the second of the four parashiyot which tell the story of Joseph. It begins in the court of Pharaoh, with the third set of 2 dreams. The butler now remembers Joseph and tells Pharaoh there is a Hebrew slave who can interpret his dreams. This sets in motion a chain of events which leads to Joseph’s release from prison, the correct interpretation of Pharaoh’s dreams, and the appointment of Joseph as second in command to Pharaoh. In the meanwhile, Jacob’s family is in need of more food, so the sons get Jacob to acquiesce to sending Benjamin. As the story unfolds, Benjamin is accused of stealing Joseph’s goblet. They return to Joseph, where Judah makes an impassioned plea on behalf of Benjamin to return to Jacob, and for Joseph to take Judah in his stead. As the rabbis have programmed the cycle of Torah readings, we are meant to brood upon this sad state of events for the week. While on one hand, we, who have gone through the Torah reading cycle before, know the denouement, the rabbis intend that we mull it over as if we do not know, while we wait for next Shabbat to come to find out what happens. While you are mulling it over, you might listen to our conversation for our take! Shabbat Shalom!!

Earlier this month we lost a dear friend and unique talent, Pete Sokolow. Enjoy this 2011 Radio Klezkamp interview with Mitch Mernick. Recorded at the Hudson Valley Resort and Spa, Kerhokson NY.

Parsha Talk Vayeshev with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yeshev [Genesis 37-40] is the beginning of the Joseph story, the longest extended narrative in the Book of Genesis. So even though, properly speaking, Joseph is not a patriarch, he is not a recipient of the covenant with its twofold promise of land and numerous descendants conveyed directly by God, he is the subject of the longest story in the Book. Chapter 37 introduces us to an adolescent or young adult Joseph, who at 17 is the favorite of his father, Jacob, the recipient of what has come to be known as the Coat of Many Colors, and a noted dreamer and interpreter of dreams, all of which will conspire, together with his brothers, to land him in Egypt as a slave. Chapter 38 is an interlude of sorts, the story of Judah and Tamar, whereby Tamar is widowed twice, by Judah’s two oldest sons, and then will become, through Judah, the ancestress of King David. Chapter 39 resumes the Joseph story, this time in Egypt, where he will serve in Potiphar’s house, land in prison, and there interpret the dreams of the butler and baker. Both before our recording and during the show, Eliot made a great case for the literary art in the Joseph story, which is, first and last, a great story. Give a listen, and send comments and criticisms to parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yishlach [Genesis 32:4-36:43] is, as the French might say, an embarrassment of riches. There are Jacob’s plans for seeing his brother again after 20 years, the mysterious encounter with the malakh, often translated as angel, which will acquire for Jacob a new name and a physical disability which will everafter affect the way his descendants eat, the meeting with Esau, the rape of Dinah, the putting away of the idols at Beit El, and the detailed genealogy of Esau, inclusing the list of 12 successive kings, which exposes perhaps as well as any Torah text, the limitations of Mosaic authorship of the Torah. Along the way is the the death of Deborah, Rebekah’s nurse, the birth of Benjamin and the death of Rachel [which occasions its own name change], and the death of Isaac. And even this list is incomplete! As befitting such a rich parashah, our conversation was free-wheeling, skipping from topic to topic, seamlessly we hope! Let us know your thoughts and reactions at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yetze [Genesis 28:10–32:3] has long been my (BC) favorite, since it was the one to which I was called up to the Torah as Bar Mitzvah many years ago. As it turns out, it is also the Bat Mitzvah parashah of my wife, Carol, though not quite so many years ago. In our discussion this week we did go much beyond the opening verses, the notice that Jacob left Beersheva and went to Haran, and the encounter at Beit El, formerly known as Luz. Perhaps we gained in depth what we sacrificed in breadth. In any event, it was a lot of fun to do! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Toldot [Genesis 25:19-28:9] begins with a flurry of activity, with 60 years summarized in 8 verses: there is a birth notice of Isaac, the marriage of Isaac at 40, the barrenness of Rebekah for 20 years, the entreaty on her behalf by Isaac, the difficult pregnancy, the consulation with the oracle, and finally the birth of Esau and Jacob, complete with a physical description which will give each of the twins his name. And then the parashah slows down with a story about the selling of the birthright, a series of episodes in the life of Isaac, a notice about Esau’s two wives and then an extendeded narrative about the stealing of the blessing. At the end, Jacob will flee for his life to the ancestral homeland back east, and Esau will marry a descendant of Ishmael. All in all, it is quite packed with material to talk about, which, of course, is what we do! We hope you enjoy this early edition of Parashah Talk, made necessary by the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Happy Thanksgiving! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Chayyai Sarah [Genesis 23:1-25:18] opens with a summary of the years of Sarah’s life: These were the lives of Sarah, a hundred years and twenty years and seven years, the years of the lives of Sarah. It is interesting that in Hebrew “life” is a plural noun, whereas in English it is singular. Perhaps related to this is that the Hebrew uses the singular “year” for 100 and 20, but the plural “years” for 7. So much for Hebrew style! Sarah’s death is now reported, in Kiryat Arba, which is Hebron, in the land of Canaan. The rest of the parashah unfolds as a response to Sarah’s death: Chapter 23 relates the negotiations which lead to the purchase of the Cave of Machpelah as a burial cave for Abraham’s family, chapter 24 [the longest chapter in Genesis at 67 verses] the process by which Rebecca is secured as a wife for Isaac, and chapter 25, Abraham’s remarriage, the births of six more sons, the dismissal of the children of the concubines, the death of Abraham, the genealogy of Ishmael, and his death. Next week the torch is passed to Isaac. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. If it seems that we have just read parashat va-yera [Genesis 18-22] it is because, in a sense, we have. Chapters 21 and 22 were the Torah readings on the first and second day of Rosh Hashanah. In our conversation this week, we started at the end, with aqedat yitzchaq, the Binding of Isaac, and stayed there. Aside from an occasional reference to earlier parts of the parashah, we focused on the endlessly fascinating story of this last test of Avraham. Feel free to share your own thoughts on my Facebook page or at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Lekh L’kha [Genesis 12-17], following on the heels of B’reishit and Noach these past two weeks, is the third in a sequence of winnowing or sifting. Taken together, they illustrate the rabbinic category of work known as bo’rer, which forbids the separation of something good from something bad on Shabbat. The first man, Adam, is created with high hopes. In the course of the next 9 generations, the quality of humankind will deteriorate so badly that God’s only solution is to destroy the world. The next week, the world is recreated anew, as it were, with No’ach. This time when the generations deteriorate, God does not destroy the world, but singles out one individual, Avram, soon to be renamed Avraham [17:5], to be the bearer of God’s word in the world. In the language of the beginning verses of the parashah, Avram’s destiny is to be a blessing, to bring God’s word into the world. We spent nearly the whole conversation on the meaning of these opening verses. When the material is so rich, we do not move very far! We hope you enjoy it. Comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Pasha Talk: with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Noach [Genesis 6:9-11:32] concerns itself primarily with the Flood in which God destroyed nearly the entire world he had so carefully created in the opening chapters of Geneis. Noah is described as a righteous person in his generation, which led the rabbis to speculate how he would have fared in a different generation. This midrash provided the springboard for our discussion this week, which moved from a discussion of Noah in his generation to the experience of time to the odd little story [9:18-27] which concludes the Flood narrative. We concluded with a consideration of Chapter 10, sometimes described as the Family of Nations. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat B’reshit [Genesis 1:1–6:8] begins the annual reading of the Torah once again. We spend some time discussing the phenomenon of reading and rereading the Torah, and how we might approach it with new eyes, with freshness, year after year. We discuss Creation, as it appears in chapter 1 and in chapter 2, we discuss Adam & Eve, Cain & Abel; we talk about Noah, who makes his appearance at the end of the parashah. There is no end to what we could talk about other than the one imposed by time! We welcome you to our new year of conversation about the Torah, and we look forward to hearing from you, by e-mail at parshatalk@gmail.com, facebook, or some other medium. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. It is a special edition of Parashah Talk this week since there is no regular weekly Torah Reading because of Chol Hamo’ed Sukkot; the intermediate days of Sukkot have a special Torah Reading. On Shabbat we read from Exodus 33:12-34:26, from Parashat Ki Tissa. We read the same selection on Chol Hamo’ed Pesach. In addition to this special Torah Reading, we have a special haftarah, about the future war of Gog and Magog as prophesied by Ezekiel. And, we read from Megillah Kohelet, the Book of Ecclesiastes. We spent most our time on this Book, what it might mean to us today, how we might best understand it as a reading for Sukkot, and how it should have ended. We saved a few minutes for a consideration of Simchat Torah, which is observed on Tuesday, October 18th. When we return next week, we return to Bereshit, where, each year, it all begins anew. Moadim L’simchah! Shabbat Shalom! Chag Same’ach!

Parsha Talk - with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chseler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Ha’azinu [Deuteronomy 32:1-52] presented us with unusual difficulties, of a technological nature. Because of the way Yom Kippur fell out, we recorded during my school day, and space in my school is at a premium. Eliot askes for mechilah [forgiveness] in case I come in and out, I was reminded periodically that my internet connection was unstable, and I do as well. Ha’azinu presents other difficulties as well. The parashah is divided into a poem [verses 1–43] and a prose sections [44–52], which Professor Jeffrey Tigay entitles “Conclusion to the Poem”. The poem, as far as the Torah records, should have become more important than it actually became, perhaps because of some of the theological issues which we discuss. The parashah ends with God yet again telling Moses he will not enter the Promised Land, but can only view it from the mountain. We also took the opportunity to discuss some elements of the upcoming holiday of Sukkot, which begins this Sunday night. Shabbat Shalom & Hag Same’ach!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Va-yelekh [Deuteronomy 31:1–30] is the shortest parashah in terms of verses, but in terms of words and letters it is second to V-zot Ha-b’rakhah, which is read on Simhat Torah. When Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur falls on Shabbat, it is paired with Nitzavim [read last week] 29:9–30:30, which has forty verses. Our discussion this week is perhaps more freewheeling than most other weeks, and if memory serves correctly, we did not delve too deeply into the parashah. Eliot noted that this is the most musical season of the Jewish year, and from their our conversation meandered, taking in the significance of Moses’ death at 120 years and various connections to Psalm 27, occasioned by variations of the phrase hazak v-amatz, which appears 3 times this week, and in the last verse of Psalm 27, as well as in the first chapter of Joshua. As the Jewish calendar works out, this is our first Parashah Talk in 5783. We began this journey over 2 1/2 years ago and we have hardly missed a week. We our grateful to all of you who have listened, watched, commented, and sent e-mails to us at parshatalk@gmail.com. As with Neil Young’s car, Long May You Run! With best wishes for a g’mar hatimah tovah, a seal in the Book of Life for the New Year. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Nitzavim [Deut. 29:9-30:20] is the last parashah of 5782, and the third from the end of the weekly readings [V-zot Ha-b’rakhah (Deut. 33:1-34:12), the last parashah, is read on the morning of Simchat Torah (this year, Tuesday, October 18, 2022)]. Nitzavim begins with the declaration that “You stand this day, all of you, before the Lord your God . . . to enter into the covenant of the Lord your God, which the Lord your God is concluding with you this day. . . “ (29:9-11 [NJPS]). The Torah goes on to elaborate, “I make this covenant . . . not with you alone, but both with those who are standing here with us this day before the Lord our God and with those who are not with us here this day (29:13-14). This led us to a discussion of which looms larger in our imagination, the Revelation at Sinai or the Coveant Renewal in the plains of Moab. We managed to mention, and discuss, the last verse of the parashah as well, which also serves as a coda to this section of Deuteronomy. Professor Jeffrey Tigay labels the remaining 4 chapters [Va-yelekh, Ha’azinu, and Ve-zot Ha-b’rakhah] as an Epilogue, describing Moses’ Last Days. With best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom and Shanah Tovah!

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Ki Tavo [Deuteronomy 26:1–29:8] features some texts which appear in Mishnah Sotah 7, where there is a discussion about which texts may be recited in any language, meaning a language one understands, and which must be recited in Hebrew, presumably because the ritual itself is what is important, and not so much one’s understanding. In the latter group [actually mentioned first in the Mishnah] is the passage recited by the farmer who brings his first fruits [Deut. 26:5–11] and the blessings and curses [Deut. 27:12–26}, which is something of an anomaly because they were only recited once, when the Israelites crossed over the Jordan into the Promised Land [see Josh. 8] In the former group is the vidui ma’aser, the confession over the tithe [Deut. 26:12–16]. We spent most of our time discussing the ritual of the first fruits and the confession of the tithe, which more than filled up our time. Give a listen! Shabbat Shalom!!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky with Parsha Talk, . This week’s parashah, Ki Tetze [Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19], is the most mitzvah dense, with 74 commandments in 110 verses. A number of these commandments are problematic [in no particular order, the call to destroy Amalek (25:17-19), the stubborn and rebellious son (21:18-21), marriage with a woman captured in war (20:10-14); how the rabbis deal with them and how we might deal with them today was the focus of our conversation. But we also touched on some others, such as those which seem to be basic moral precepts: building a parapet (22:8), chasing away the mother bird when taking her young or eggs (22:6-7). We may have even considered some which seem morally neutral: the prohibition against sha’atnez [mixing wool and linen in clothing] and kilayim [mixing seeds of different species, even yoking two different kinds of animals for plowing (22:9-11). We hope you enjoy! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Shoftim [Deuteronomy 16:18–21:9] is the fifth parashah in the Book of Deuteronomy. It has a mitzvah density of about 40%, according to Eliot, who found this statistic in the Koren Torah with Rashi. Mitzvah density is the ration of mitzvot [commandments] to the number of p’suqim [verses]. So there are a lot of mitzvot in this parashah. We spent most of our time focusing on the king, and in particular, his writing of a copy of the Torah [the exact meaning of which is subject to much rabbinic comment]. We barely had time to more than mention some of the many other interesting commandments, but did manage to link the beginning and end of the parashah, thereby providing a metaphorical covering ot the entire parashah. Comments, criticisms, and questions are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk: with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chsler. Parashat Re’eh [Deuteronomy 11:26–16:17] is the beginning of the legislative core of Deuteronomy, which will extend over the next few weeks until the beginning of Parashat Ki Tavo [read this year on September 17]. One might look at it as the foundation of Israelite religious life, with laws calling for the centralization of cultic life “to the site that the Lord your God will choose” [12:5], the dietary laws [ch. 14], צדקה (charity) [ch. 15], and holidays [ch. 16]. We spent a lot of time talking about the centralization of the cult: what did it mean for our ancestors in ancient Israel, and in what ways it might be applicable or desirable today. This did not leave a lot of time to discuss other things, but there is always next year! Comments, questions, and criticisms may be directed to parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky discuss this week's parsha. Parashat Eqev [Deuteronomy 7:12–11:25], the third parashah of the book, has its share of quotables. The second paragraph of the Shema, recited by the faithful twice each day, is found here [Deuteronomy 11:13–21], as is the verse at the heart of the second blessing of Birkat Ha-mazon [Grace After Meals] [8:10], and the phrase [ha-el ha-gadol ha-gibbor v-ha-no’ra [10:17], by which God is addressed in the opening prayer of the Amidah, the prayer par excellence according to the rabbis. Other verses worthy of mention include “man does not live by bread alone” [8:3], the seven species which characterize the Land of Israel [8:8], and the variation of the question that Micah poses and answers about what God wants from us [Micah 6:6–8; cf. Deut. 10:12f]. We manage to at least touch on all of these! Shabbat Shalom!!

Amy Erlanger interviews people from Ramah Berkshires and Ramah Palmer (Ramah New England) before the opening ceremony. Following that, we have the ceremony. Is it possible that Amy knows some of these Palmer people? Find out....

Parsha Talk- with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. This morning I (BC) got up from shivah [the initial 7-day mourning period after a funeral] for my brother, Bruce, z”l [zikhrono livrakhah, may his memory be for a blessing]. What better way to rejoin the world than to sit on Zoom with colleagues and friends, Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky and discuss the parashah? This week’s parashah, Parashat Va-etchanan [Deuteronomy 3:23–7:11] features the Shema/V-ahavta [6:4–9] and a version of the Ten Commandments [5:6–17; cf. Exodus 20:2-14], as well as some verses which were taken into the liturgy. We began our conversation with a discussion of the Mosaic moment: Moses finds himself rebuffed for the last time in his quest to enter the Promised Land. God does not want to hear any more of this matter, leaving Moses with a crucial question — what should he do now? We follow up on last week’s conversation about Moses as Moshe Rabbeinu, Moses our Teacher, and discuss more precisely how Moshe fulfills this role. We managed to discuss the Shema in the context of both the Ten Commandments and the other appearances of the root-word ahav [to love] in this week’s Torah Reading. As often seems the case, the time is up before we seemed to get anywhere! Give a listen, and let us know what you think! Shabbat Shalom!!

Adat HaBogrim puts on the musical, Matilda.

The kids of Shorashim talk to and play games with Amy and Benji of Kol Ramah.

Amy and Benji talk to the Gan kids. Listen to them talk, sing, and make animal sounds.

Join this fast-paced discussion with our very own Shorashim and hear about their brand-new musical and more.

Benji, Amy and Charlotte discuss musicals, acting and more in this radio chat show.

The kids of Shorashim put on an original play about exams, revenge, and friendship.

Parsha Talk Devarim with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. We begin a new book of the Torah this week, Sefer Devarim, the Book of Deuteronomy, which always comes the Shabbat before Tisha B’Av, the 9th of Av. This year Shabbat is actually the 9th of Av, but we postpone the observance of the fast and the mourning rituals that accompany it until Sunday. A new book of the Torah often begins with great promise, but Rashi notes that the rabbis understand the opening words, “These are the words,” to actually be words of rebuke to B’nai Yisrael. This would make Parashat Devarim [Deuteronomy 1:1–3:22] fitting for the season of national mourning which commenced with the Fast of the 17th of Tammuz [observed this year on July 17th] and culminates with Tisha B’Av. We spend most of our conversation on situating the book in the context of the Torah as a whole and in the context of the life of Moses. The emphasis on mourning this year speaks to me on a personal level as I (BC) mourn the death of my brother, Bruce Evan Chesler, who departed this world for another early Sunday morning [July 31, 2022]. In order to accommodate the needs of a small but far-flung family, the funeral will take place on Friday, August 5, 2022. Speaking words of Torah with my good friends and colleagues provides comfort for my personal loss as well as for the national loss we remember at this time of year. Shabbat Shalom.

The 4 teams are: Yellow Cheerios, Green Apple Jacks, Blue Frosted Flakes, and the winning team, Orange Reese's Puffs. These are their songs and cheers.

The kids of Chaverim talk to Kol Ramah about all kinds of things, including which movie is better: Zombies or Encanto?

Join host Benji and Gesher camper Harry Posner as they discuss the very latest in the world of sport.

Phil Kronenberg sits down with Kol Ramah and gives a musical tour of Jewish composers.

Join our Gesher campers for their radio show, discussions ranging from favourite pizzas to sport.

Parsha Talk : with rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Beginning with the Fast of the 17th of Tammuz, this year marked on the 18th of Tammuz [July 17] because we do not do this type of fast on Shabbat, the Jewish community begins the the 3 Weeks of Punishment or Admonition, which culminate with the observance of the Fast of Tisha B’Av , this year observed on the 10th of Av [August 7], commemorating the destruction of the two temples, among other disasters which befell the Jewish community. Unlike most haftarot [the prophetic readings which follow the Shabbat and Holiday Torah Readings], the haftarot beginning with the Shabbat after the Fast of the 17th of Tammuz are anchored in a particular conception of Jewish history. The three weeks between the 17th of Tammuz and the 9th of Av feature haftarot from the first 2 chapters of Jeremiah and the first chapter of Isaiah. Shabbat Nachamu, the Sabbath of Comfort or Consolation, which is the first Shabbat after Tisha B’Av features a haftarah from what many scholars believe is Second Isaiah, a prophet perhaps with the name of Isaiah as well but who lived roughly two hundred years after the First Isaiah, in the generation or two after the Destruction of the First Temple. The six weeks that follow also have haftarot from Second Isaiah, to present the Jewish people with what Jeremy referred to as 2nd Isaiah’s greatest hits. Rather than talk about the parashah this week, the last two parashiyot of the Book of Numbers, we turned to the haftarot in order to discuss the phenomenon of prophecy and what it might have meant in the Bible and what it might mean to us, living in the 21st century. Next week we will return to our regularly scheduled program, a discussion of the opening chapters of Deuteronomy. Shabbat Shalom!

The girls of Ta'am talk and sing to Amy Erlanger and Benji Goldstein of Kol Ramah.

Ring in the new session with Nitzanim.

Amy Erlanger and Benji Goldstein of Kol Ramah talk with some Tzeirim girls about the new session beginning, and more.

When a disconcerting life-sized puppet from the Camp's production of 'Finding Nemo' comes alive, it is up to friends Matan Goldstein and Jonah Schwartz to save Camp Ramah from its destructive tendencies. With thanks to Ryan from Bogrim.

Join Rabbi Guy Austrian and his Sollelim class on Jews and Punk! Great discussion with Mazalit, Adam, Noah and Blake. Produced by Amy of Radio Kol Ramah.

Dvir and Ido host the Mishlachat Show! Wonderful talk and music Producer Amy Erlanger

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky present Parsha Talk. Parashat Pinchas [Numbers 25:10-30:1] is the parashah that is most read from during the year, since the maftir reading for Rosh Chodesh and the holidays comes from chapters 28-29. But there is a lot more here, including the end of the story which began at the end of Balak last week. There, the Israelites go astray at Baal Peor and Pinchas takes matters into his own hands by killing two people caught in fragrante delicto. Parashat Balak ends with the notice of 24,000 Israelites dying in the plague. This week the focus is on Pinchas and God’s response to his deed. We talked about this, but also about Moshe, commanded here to go up the mountain for a look at the Promised Land that he will not enter, and what that might mean to him. And, there is the appointment of Joshua as his successor. Still, there is much more we might have discussed. So listen now, and come back next year! Shabbat Shalom!!

The kids of Shorashim talk to Amy and Benji of Kol Ramah.

Benji Goldstein of Kol Ramah presents his show about all things Beatles.

The kids of Chaverim talk to Kol Ramah.

Live soundtrack of the wonderful Sollelim Show Finding Nemo. Produced by Sollelim and Tzevet Hofa'a. Recorded by Radio Kol Ramah live in Bet Am Bet on July 18, 2022.

An original show by the kids of Nitzanim about a disease you can cure with vegetables.

Mussar and Hockey with Rabbi Coach Keven Friedman. Hockey play by play with Andy and Shalev.

Rabbi Coach Keven Tzvi Friedman returns to Radio Kol Ramah and explores the reasoning of "Mussar and Hockey" Listen to a great Ramah Berkshires hocky play by play with Ariel Duffler. (Check out the interesting legal work Coach Kevin is working on for the US Government at minute 6:00).

Rabbi Coach Keven Tzvi Friedman's Mussar and Hokey participants from A22 provide a great Hockey Play by play.

Rabbi Coach Keven Tzvi Friedman interviews campers who have experienced our very popular, albeit unique "Mussar and Hockey" program.

Dr Alison Joseph's yahadut class studied Balak and prepared and performed an original radio play based on their studies. This was recorded live in the B side pagoda. A special guest opens the podcast with a beautiful song. Participants are in Machon, Solellim and Bogrim. They include (in no particular order): Mia, Jake, Vivian, Dasha, Gabby, August, Katriella, Francesca, Dalia, Annie, Maya, Shira and Eden. We end the podcast with a song Mah Tovu from the CD Shirei Gan Shalom, by Melita Dvostan and Octopretzel

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky bring us Parsha Talk! Parashat Balak [Numbers 22:2–25:9] is the second of the three parashiyot [portions] in Numbers named after a person. The Balak in question is the King of Moab, who sends away for a rent-a-prophet to come curse the Israelites. The prophet in question is Balaam first is forbidden by God to come, then receive permission. This sets the stage for one of the best known stories in biblical literature, the talking donkey [this was thousands of years before Mr. Ed, for those old enough to catch the reference!]. For the rabbis, this talking donkey was already prepared that first Friday afternoon of Creation. According to the Mishnah, Tractate Avot, this donkey is one of 10 things, all of a miraculous nature, created that first week, as if to suggest that if a miracle is part of nature, it is not quite the subversion of nature we often associate with miracles. This story of Balak and Balaam, which takes up most of the parashah, also takes up most of our coversation. Give a listen! In the words of the prophet, “Out of Zion goes forth Torah, the word of God from Jerusalem”. I (BC) write these words and participated in our recording from the holy city of Jerusalem, where I have had the privilege to participate in an amazing professional development conference sponsored by Legacy Heritage Teachers Institute. Shabbat Shalom!

The kids of Tzeirim tell us a spooky tale.

A CRB tradition where each edah sings a Hebrew song. Soundtrack recorded live in the Ulam by Radio Kol Ramah.

Live soundtrack of the Gesher play Legally Blonde - The Musical. Directed by Hofa'ah staff. Recorded live in Bet Am Bet by radio Kol Ramah.

Eighteen years running, Kibitzing with Kurland has seen many guests. Come join Rabbi Paul Kurland and Mitch Mernick with special call in surprise guests,

Fantastic live performance of original songs by Ohad Angel of Hofa'ah

A show written by Cochavim

Amy Erlanger and Benji Goldstein talk with the kids of Shorashim.

Kol Ramah talks with Nitzanim.

Sollelim and Bogrim participants in Dr. Alison Joseph's class present their own poscast on this weeks parasha Chukkat. Listen for a special bonus; a discussion of what Torah class is like in camp and how it differs from the school year. These chanichim are truly "The Next Generation". With Aiden, Eliana, Allison, Margolit, Ruth, Eli, Noah, Charlie, Tamar, Jordan.

Hear a behind-the-scenes discussion with the creators of 'Apples for Breakfast'. Featuring fun, games and of course the wonderful Soleilim cast.

It's a normal Ramah breakfast... except the apples are talking! Listen in on lesser knows culinary politics, put together and performed by a group of enthusiastic Soleilim. With thanks to Jordan, Daniel, Hannah, Eli, Sam and Henry.

An original show by Tzeirim.

An original show by Tzeirim.

An original show by Tzeirim.

Think you've seen Breaking Bad? Think again. This heimeshe version of the hit show is set in 1970s Israel and features the likes of Jesse Pinkanberg, Tuco Salamancaberg and Saul Goodmanman. Performed by Aiden and Brandon.

Amy Erlanger talks to the boys of B2.

The girls of Nitzanim perform an original musical. Instructor Landon Braverman

Parsha Talk broadcast directly from Camp Ramah , with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy KalmanofskyI, It is an early edition of Parashah Talk since I am on my way to Israel tonight for a professional development conference in Jerusalem under the auspices of Legacy Heritage Fund. Our parashah [Chukkat, Numbers 19:1-22:1] is one that we discussed more than once in our summers at Camp Ramah in the Berkshires but still there are new things to say. We cover some of the ground we have previously covered but add, we hope, additional insights. Among the topics are the ritual of the red heifer, Moses & The Rock, and the death of Aaron. At 40+ minutes this is one of our longer episodes, yet it seems yet again, that we have barely scratched the surface. A Happy July 4th to those in or citizens of the United States; and Shabbat Shalom to one and all!

Over the last week a small group of dedicated Tzeirimers put together and performed an original piece of sketch comedy based on the popular show 'Bunked' and featuring the likes of Kevin Hart and Adam Sandler. Listen as they navigate through Camp and laugh along with us.

Amy Erlanger and Mitch Mernick talk to B3 about the 4th of July and their time at camp.

Complete soundtrack of the wonderful July 4 concert "The Miriam Hertzon Experience"! Josh Ehrlich - Keyboard and Vocals Jeff Weisz - Guitar Max Silverstone - Bass Guitar Phil Kronenberg - Drums Adam Weingarten - Drums and A/V Landon Braverman - Vocals and a little bit of keyboard Lexi Wenger - Vocals Lexi Weakley - Vocals Leilah Rosen - Vocals Ava Lewis - Vocals Mac Liebowitz - Harmonica and vocals

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanosfky. Parashat Korach [Numbers 16-18] is the fifth of the ten weekly readings in the Book of Numbers. One of its distinguishing features is that it is named after a person, which happens 3 times in Numbers, as many times as in the rest of the Torah. The Korach in question is a first cousin of Moses and Aaron, but his appearance in the parashah is for political, not merely familial reasons, though the two are related. Korach takes umbrage at the concentration of power in the family of Moses and Aaron, and wishes for it to be diffused more widely, at least to him and his family. He leads a rebellion against the leadership of Moses and Aaron, which in our version in the Torah is combined with at least 2 or 3 other separate rebellions. Suffice it to say, none of them end well for the instigators. For a slightly different approach than our usual thematically based conversation, we began with the first verse and then made our way through as many verses as time allowed. Give a listen! Shabbat Shalom!!

Jake Weiss from B9 (Bogrim) talks to Amy Erlanger and Benji Goldstein of Kol Ramah.

Opening Day Kayitz 2022!! by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Sh’lach [Numbers 13-15] is primarily concerned with the episode of the so-called spies [Numbers 13-14]: Moshe, apparently at God’s bequest, sends 12 men, each a princes of his tribe, to scout out the land in anticipation of entrance and conquest by the Israelites, in fulfillment of God’s promise to the ancestors. They come back with a devastating report by 10 of the 12, which sets back the history of the people by 40 years, since God’s response is to declare that no one over the age of 20, with the exception of Caleb and Joshua [from the tribe of Judah and Ephraim, respectively], will enter the land. The generation of the spies is condemned to live their remaining days in the wilderness. Chapter 15, which itself is worthy of a show, contains legislation about sacrifices, the curious story about the wood-gatherer [15:32-36], and the best known passage, 15:37-41, which became the third paragraph of the Shema in Jewish liturgy. Our conversation focused mostly on the spies, and in particular, on the first verse [13:1]. We hope you enjoy. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. We often refer to the Torah as the Chumash, a shortening of the Hebrew phrase for the 5 Books of Moses or 5 Books of the Torah. But there is a rabbinic tradition that there are actually 7 books, based on a scribal anomaly where the two verses 10:35-36 are bracketed by inverted nuns [the 14th letter of the Hebrew alphabet] in the Torah scroll.. Our book of Numbers would then comprise 3 books: 1:1-10:34, 10:35-36, and 11:1-12:16. There is no clear consensus why these verses are so bracketed, but the two verses in question are most familiar to us from the Torah service in the synagogue, where verse 10:35 begins the Torah service with the opening of the ark and 10:36 begins the last paragraph before we return the Torah and close the ark. We discuss the significance of these verses as part our conversation for Parashat B’ha’alo’tkha [Numbers 8-12]. There are a myriad of other topics this week, some of which capture our attention, including Pesach Sheni, the 2nd Passover [9:1-14]., and the incident of Miriam and Aaron apparently defaming Moses [12:1-16]. Give a listen! Shabbat Shalom!!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky: Parashat Naso [Numbers 4:21–7:89] is not just amazing, it is the longest single parashah in the Torah, with well over two thousand words, and contains the longest chapter, chapter 7, with 89 verses. Among the topics taken up is the completion of the levitical census, the trespass offering, the ritual for the woman suspected of adultery, the nazir, and the tribal chieftains’ gifts for the Tabernacle. It is perhaps appropriate for such a dense parashah that our conversation lasted nearly forty minutes, which may be our record. We hope you enjoy! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Eliot Kalmanofsky. We begin a new book of the Torah this week, Sefer B’midbar [the Book of Numbers], with the opening parashah [Numbers 1:1–4:20] also named b’midbar [literally, “in the wilderness (of)”, which is the setting for the opening chapters]. This parashah is concerned with the tribal census of fighting men, which is what influenced the Greek, then Latin name for the book, which made its way into English as Numbers. Immediately upon the conclusion of Shabbat begins the holiday of Shavuot, the holiday of first-fruits, which the rabbis designate as z’man mattan torateinu, the season of the giving of the Torah. We devote our conversation this week to the holiday of Shavuot and the theme of revelation. We may pick up b’midbar when we return to our regular schedule next week with parashat Naso, which completes the levitical census, the enumeration of the 3 principal clans of the tribe of Levi and a detailing of their tabernacle responsibilities. In the meanwhile, Shabbat Shalom and Chag Same’ach!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat B’chukotai [Leviticus 26:3-27:34] concludes the reading from the Book of Leviticus. Chapter 26 contains the tochechah, the lengthy passage of rebuke for failure to live up to God’s commands, which finds an echo in parashat Ki Tavo, near the end of Deuteronomy. Chapter 27 discusses votive offerings to the tabernacle, where a person’s donation is determined by gender and age. This finds an echo in the Book of Numbers, which we begin reading next week, and the redemption of the first-born. This topic of valuations forms the basis of the mishnaic tractate of Arakhin, and provides a contrast between the monetary worth of a human being here with the infinite value of a human being embedded in the idea that each of us is created in the image of God. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat B’har [Leviticus 25:1–26:2], at 57 verses, is one of the shortest of the weekly readings. It is concerned with the shmittah [sabbatical] year and yovel [jubilee] year, as well as other legislation designed to remediate poverty which leads to the selling of ancestral land. Of particular note for Americans [of the United States variety] is 25:10, which provides the Hebrew source for the inscription on the Liberty Bell, “you shall proclaim liberty throughout the land, unto all the inhabitants thereof”. We discussed a little bit what liberty or freedom might have meant in its biblical context, but spent most of our time discussing a rabbinic take on the trolley problem, which is found in the Talmud [Bava Metzia 62a], and quotes from our parashah as a proof-text [25:36] As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky bring us Parsha Talk! The parashah this week is Emor [Leviticus 21-24], which features the Levitical calendar [chapter 23], last read in the synagogue on the 2nd day of Passover. This calendar is a culmination of the move to a fixed calendar, with nearly all the holidays now designated for a specific day and month, completing the shift from agricultural occasions in the earlier calendars [Exodus and Deuteronomy]. Chapter 21 is devoted to various priestly restrictions and limitations, to borrow the title given it by Baruch Levine in his JPS Torah Commentary, while Chapter 22 discusses various sacred donations which come to the priests as a result of their service. Chapter 24 contains one of the few events that takes place in Leviticus, an event which sparks the conclusion of our conversation. As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofskt and Barry Chesler. This week we are back to the regular weekly reading, parashat Kedoshim [Leviticus 19-20]. For the rabbis, this is the central portion of Leviticus, with the famous verse, ve-ahavta l-re’akha ka-mokha [“you shall love your neighbor as yourself”], at the very center of the Torah. According to the Sage, Hillel, the rest [of the Torah] is commentary. We take up the theme of holiness in our discussion of chapter 19, though we make some references to chapter 20, a kind of reprise of chapter 18, read three weeks ago as part of parashat Acharai Mot. Since we recorded the show on the eve of Yom Ha-atzma’ut, Israel’s Independence Day, we spent some time discussing its significance. We hope you enjoy! Shabbat Shalom!!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barrry Chesler. Parashat Acharai Mot [Leviticus 16-18] is familiar to many of us from Yom Kippur, when we reach chapter 16 in the morning and, traditionally, chapter 18, though in modern times congregations have chosen to read chapter 19 or parashat nitzavim for Deuteronomy. Chapter 16 describes the Yom Kippur ritual in the mishkan [tabernacle], and is prefaced by a note about the deaths of Nadav and Avihu, narrated in chapter 10. We spend the first part of our conversation discussing these deaths and what they might have meant in the life of the nation and in the lives of Moses and Aaron, national leaders but also brothers who suffered an enormous tragedy. The second part of the conversation took its cue from the calendar, the observance of Yom HaShoah [Holocaust Memorial Day] this past Wednesday evening and Thursday, and of Yom Ha-Zikkaron [Israel’s Memorial Day] and Yom Ha-Atzma’ut [Israel’s Independence Day]. Jeremy, who must returned from a trip to Israel for Pesach, shared his Yom HaShoah experience in Israel. Wishing one and all Shabbat Shalom!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky for Parsha Talk! Because the next two shabbatot are the first and last Yom Tov of Pesach, we offer this special Pesach edition of Parashah Talk, where the conversation focuses on the Haggadah, rather than the Torah portion. We hope this will carry you through until parashat Acharai Mot, read in synagogues on April 30, when we will return to our normal schedule! Until then, our best wishes for a zissen Pesach!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. This week’s parashah is M’tzora [Leviticus 14-15], which continues the Torah’s discussion of the skin affliction commonly, but mistakenly, identified with leprosy. In the latter part of chapter 14, this affliction plagues the houses of the Israelites. The Torah raises the curiosity of the Israelite summoning the priest to make the diagnosis but given time to remove the movables, lest they be condemned with the house. This raises the possibility that the affliction has a spiritual dimension which may be of greater importance than the physical one. The haftarah, special for the Shabbat before Passover, is from the last chapter of the last prophet, Malachi [generally dated to late 6th century, around the building of the 2nd Temple], who predicts the coming of Elijah to restore harmony between parents and their children. The generation gap, perhaps surprisingly, is much older than we often imagine, and may require a miraculous intervention to resolve its tension. As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Below is the link for T-shirts. Should you purchase one, do let us know! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Malomet, Kalmanofsky and Chesler. This week is the 4th of the special Shabbatot before Pesach, each with a special maftir [additional reading] and haftarah [prophetic reading]. Next week is also special; it is the Shabbat before Pesach and is called Shabbat Ha-gadol, for reasons which fall far short of unanimous agreement. While Shabbat Ha-gadol does have a special haftarah, there is no special maftir. Perhaps more on that next week! The weekly reading is Thazria [Leviticus 12-13], flying solo so to speak this year [in many years it is paired with M’tzorah, which this year we read next week]. The seventh aliyah, which is normally the end of the weekly reading, is from Numbers 28:9-15, in honor of Rosh Chodesh, the first day of the Hebrew month Nisan.. The maftir is from Exodus [12:1-20], and details the preparation for Pesach Mitzrayim, the Passover as celebrated in Egypt. While Thazria, which is primarily about the disease commonly, but mistakenly according to most scholars, called leprosy, and the elaborate priestly ritual for dealing with it, we discussed chapter 12 [at 8 verses, one of, if not the shortest, in the Torah], which has to do with the status of a woman who has given birth to a boy or a girl [each has a different status]. It also includes the law of circumcision, which was first mentioned in Genesis in the context of Abraham and the covenant. Most of our conversation this week focused on circumcision and the Passover ritual in Exodus. We hope you enjoy! Shabbat Shalom!! Chodesh Tov!!!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky for Parsha Talk! Parashat Sh’mini [Leviticus 9-11] coincides with Shabbat Parah this year, the third of the four special shabbatot before Passover, each with its own maftir [this week Numbers 19] and haftarah [Ezekiel 36:16-38]. The Torah reading features the culmination of the ordination ceremony for the priests and sacrifice with its unexpected ending in the deaths of Aaron’s two older sons, Nadav and Avihu, and the dietary laws. The special maftir describes the curious rite of the red heifer, and provides a different counterpoint to the story of Nadav and Avihu than the usual haftarah [2 Samuel 6:1-7:17]. As is often the case, I do not always remember what we discuss before we record and what we discuss on the program! You may send questions and comments to parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Tzav [Leviticus 6-8] divides, unevenly, into 2 sections. The first 2 chapters reprise the sacrifices discussed in last week’s parashah, but this time from the priest’s perspective. In this sense, it is a coda to last week. Chapter 8 is the first half of what Baruch Levine calls, in his JPS Torah Commentary on Leviticus, “The Initiation of Formal Worship”. Eliot has the timer when we record so I have no idea if our conversation so neatly mirrors the parashah’s division or has its own organizational scheme. We said what we wanted to say, though, and we hope you enjoy it! Shabbat Shalom, and for those listening before Thursday night, Purim Same’ach!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. This week, we begin a new book of the Torah, Va-yiqra [Leviticus] with the parashah [chapters 1-5] taking its name from the book. It provides a detailed description of the 5 major sacrifices an Israelite might offer, 3 voluntary [olah (burmt offering), minchah (grain offering), zevach sh’lamim (sacred gift of greeting)] and 2 required [chattat (sin-offering) and asham (penalty offering)], occasioned by certain sins and the desire to make amends.. In addition, it is Shabbat Zachor, the 2nd of the special shabbatot before Passover, which always falls on the Shabbat before Purim, observed this year Wednesday evening, March 16, and Thursday, March 17. We touch upon the maftir [Deuteronomy 25:17-19] but did not have time to discuss the fascinating haftarah [1 Samuel 15:2-34] in which Saul will lose his kingdom. Instead we concluded with a game to spark a discussion of the Book of Esther and the holiday of Purim. Let us know what you think at parshatalk@gmail.com! Shabbat Shalom! Purim Same’ach!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat P’qudai [Exodus 38:21-40:38] recounts the final details of the erection of the mishkan [Tabernacle] with the concluding verses noting that the cloud covered the ohel mo’ed [sacred tent] and the glory or presence of God filled the tabernacle, so much so that Moshe could not enter. When the cloud lifted, the Israelites set out on their journeys; but when it remained in place, so did the Israelites. The cloud of the Lord was on the tabernacle during the day and the fire at night, in the presence of the entire house of Israel in all their journeys. The fire and cloud are two of the great symbols of God’s presence, since each has substance but no fixed form. We discuss the meaning of the tabernacle, the multiple beginnings of Exodus and how the end shapes our understanding of each beginning, and more. We hope you enjoy our conclusion of the Book of Exodus! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk-with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Va-yaqhel [Exodus 35:1-38:20] is the penultimate parashah of Sefer Sh’mot [the Book of Exodus]. In non-leap years it is paired with the last parashah [P’qudai, more on that next week] to make one of the longest parashiyot of the year. These last two parashiyot take up the actual construction of the mishkan [tabernacle], after the planning was described in the three preceding parashiyot. We spent a fair amount of time talking about Shabbat, since one of the few specific prohibitions is found in the second verse. We also discussed the meaning of the word va-yaqkel, which is often translated as “convoke” or “gather”. For those who like to look ahead, this week is also Shabbat Sheqalim, the first of the 4 special shabbatot before Passover, each with a special maftir [additional reading] and haftarah [prophetic passage]. For Sheqalim, the maftir is from the beginning of last week’s parashah, Ki Tissa [Exodus 30:11-16]. For those keeping track, we have about seven weeks until Passover! Shabbat Shalom!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmonofsky for Parsha Talk. Parashat Ki Tissa [Exodus 30:11-34:25] features the episode of the Golden Calf, which provided the material for most of our discussion this week. How should we evaluate the performance of God? Moshe? B’nai Yisrael? What is the nature of the sin of idolatry? Does it have modern relevance? resonance? We came at these questions, and the story, each in his own way, making for a thoughtful discussion as we shared our ideas and responded to each others’. Comments and criticisms welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Tetzaveh [Exodus 27:20-30:10] follows closely on T’rumah with the plans for some of the furniture and objects of the Mishkan [Tabernacle] and the priestly vestments. On the face of it, it does not seem to provide material for an interesting discussion, but we persevered and perhaps even prevailed! As with last week, we talked more theology than the parashah as a whole might suggest at first blush. In particular, we talked about the priestly breastplate, with its four rows of precious jewels, and considered the meaning of the Exodus in a different light than usual, basing ourselves on the passage at the end of Chapter 29 [43-47]. As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk - with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat T’rumah [Exodus 25:1-27:18] begins the Torah’s lengthy disquisition on the building of the Tabernacle, whose plan and construction will take up most of the remaining chapters of Exodus. This week and next the Torah will describe in great detail how the Tabernacle should be constructed, including descriptions of the furniture and utensils, and then, separated by the episode of the Golden Calf, the Torah will describe the actual building of the Tabernacle. Our conversation this week is perhaps more theological than usual for us, and less tethered to the text. Perhaps we discuss one specific verse, but not much more! Still, the time went quickly. Before we knew it, we were wishing a Shabbat Shalom, which I shall echo here. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk - with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Mishpatim [Exodus 21-24] contains the Covenant Code, one of the major pieces of legislation in the Torah. One way of looking at it is to think of it as the prose to the poetry of revelation in last week’s parashah. In Jewish terms it is the halachah [law] to last week’s aggadah [narrative, non-legal material]. Mishpatim is rich in legal detail, with laws covering a variety of situations, many of which must have been more common while others would have occurred more rarely. Our conversation began with the first verse and included the last chapter, a ritual that is, shall we say, distinctly non-modern. Along the way we discussed some of the specific laws one or more of us find interesting. Comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Yitro [Exodus 18:1-20:23, and in some versions enumerated as 20:26] features the Ten Commandments, which is half of a larger unit generally referred to as Revelation at Sinai. When I used to teach Exodus 19 and 20 in high school, I would entitle the unit, “Revelation: There is less than meets the eye”. For many people, most of what they know, or think they know, about Revelation comes from the rabbis and not from the Torah. The Torah’s account is rather spartan and difficult to follow. Give a listen to see what we make of it. As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. This Shabbat is known as Shabbat Shirah, after the Song of the Sea [Exodus 15:1–18], which is featured in this week’s parashah, parashat B’shallah [Exodus 13:17–17:16]. For the haftarah [Judges 4:4–5:31], the rabbis chose another triumphant song, the Song of Deborah [Judges 5:2–31], celebrating another event in Israel’s salvation history. We spend some time talking about the Song of the Sea itself, as well as the event it celebrates. In the nearly two years we have been doing Parashah Talk on Zoom, I do not think Eliot has missed a week to describe this week’s parashah as amazing. We hope you find that our conversation measures up! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler: Parashat Bo [Exodus 10:1-13:16] contains the first commandment to B’nai Yisrael, the commandment to mark what came to be known as the month of Nisan, the month in which Passover is observed, as the first month in the calendar. So important is this commandment that Rashi [1040-1104], the famous Bible [and Talmud] commentator raises the possibility in his comment on the first verse of the Torah [Genesis 1:1] that this commandment [Exodus 12:2] should be the actual beginning of the Torah. Exodus 12 is one of my favorite chapters in the Torah, and it provides the basis for much of our conversation. Give a listen! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parashat Va-era [Exodus 6:2-9:35] opens with a verse that has intrigued modern critical biblical scholars for generations: God tells Moses that He appeared to the patriarchs as El Shaddai, but did not make his name YHVH [the unpronounceable 4-letter name of God] known to them. How much does it matter by which name we call upon God? The parashah also features the first 7 plagues; the phenomenon of the plagues [are they best understood in the aggregate, or perhaps individually; is it phenomena or phenomenon?] which engenders quite a bit of discussion. Are the plagues to show the Egyptians something? or perhaps the Israelites? At the beginning the Egyptian magicians match in some measure the early plagues, but very quickly they move beyond their capabilities. Speaking of capabilities, we find an echo of the verse from last week in which God tells Moses that Aaron will play the prophet to Moses’ God, which suggests that perhaps it is the voice of the prophet who speaks for God, who is mostly silent, or unheard. We had an opportunity to respond in some fashion to questions submitted by e-mail, so please submit them at parshatalk.com. Shabbat Shalom and a Happy 2022!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. We began a new book, Sefer Shemot [the Book of Exodus], with parashat Shemot [Exodus 1:1-6:1] and our discussion did not get very far. It seemed that we were just touching on some of the items of interest in chapters 1 and 2 when time was called; we closed with each of us offering an explanation/interpretation of God’s curious name: ehyeh asher ehyeh, a phrase which defies a coherent English translation [see Exodus 3:14]. We could easily have talked for twice as long, so rich is the parashah. If you do not want to wait until next year, you can wait until next week, when we offer another edition of Parashah Talk! As always, comments and criticisms welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Come join Rabbis Malomet, Chesler and Kalmanofsky for Parsha Talk. Any time one can reference “The Princess Bride” it is sure to bring a smile to one’s face, so we are pleased that Parashat Ve-yehi [Genesis 47:28-50:26] provided us with that opportunity. We spend our time talking about Jacob at the end of his life, there are a couple of deathbed scenes, and Joseph at the end of his life. Genesis began with such hope, the Creation of a perfectly ordered world, and ends practically in despair, with the death of Joseph who can only make his brothers and descendants promise that when the people leave Egypt they will take his bones with them for burial in the Promised Land, underscoring the different experience after the death of Jacob, when the brothers at least were able to bury their father’s remains at the Cave of Machpelah. We have successully concluded our journey through the book of Genesis which began 11 weeks ago with the first of the 12 parashiyot that make up the book. Even as we linger, we are looking forward to beginning the Book of Exodus. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky with Parsha Tralk. As I (BC) mention early in the program, I found parashat va-yigash [Genesis 44:18-47:27] somewhere between unsettling and disturbing. Our conversation focuses on the character of and characters, Jacob, Joseph, and Pharaoh. The parashah is more than amazing, I understand that each week’s parashah qualifies on that score, it is particularly rich, recalling for us earlier stories in Genesis, going back to Creation, and pointing forward to Exodus, and even Joshua and beyond. As always, your comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Mi-qetz [Genesis 41:1-44:17] coincides this year with Rosh Chodesh Tevet [the first day] and, of course, Hanukkah. Thirty years ago on this Shabbat, I delivered my senior sermon in the Seminary Synagogue at The Jewish Theological Seminary of America. I shared the bimah with my wife, Carol, who led the davening as part of her senior Shabbat as a cantorial student. The date was December 7, 1991, the 50th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Parashah Talk this week allowed me to revisit some of the themes of my sermon that year, as well as the line with which I began, noting that this was the Jewish version of tora-tora-tora! There was a lot to talk about, so we hope you enjoy! Shabbat Shalom! Chodesh Tov! Hag Urim Same’ach! A Shabbat of Peace, a Good Month, Happy Festival of Lights!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmonofsky for Parsha Talk - Thanksgiving Edition. Parashat Va-yeshev [Genesis 37-40] is the first of four parashiyot which feature Joseph and his brothers. This week, Joseph is given a technicolor dreamcoat, as it were, which sets in motion the dreams he perhaps carelessly reveals to his brothers, his going forth to see how his brothers are faring as shepherds in the area of Shechem, his sale into slavery and his interactions with Potiphar and his wife. At the end of the parashah, after successully interpreting the dreams of the butler and baker, he is left languishing in prison, forgotten by the butler who had promised to remember him to Pharaoh. In chapter 38 we have the curious interlude of Judah and Tamar. We discuss Joseph as a transition figure, in terms of his ancestors, the Patriarchs, and his brothers. We touch upon the story of Judah and Tamar, and we discuss the episode with Mrs. Potiphar, which will land Joseph in jail. The time went quickly, so we hope you enjoy it as much as we did! Shabbat Shalom, and a Happy Thanksgiving!!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmonofsky - Parashat Va-yishlach [Genesis 32:4-36:43] is the subject of this week’s Parashah Talk. We discuss Jacob’s encounter with the malakh, the messenger, which results in injury but acquires for Jacob a blessing and a new name. We talk about the disturbing story of Dinah, the only daughter of Jacob and Leah, and what befalls her from her encounter with one of the locals. And we point ahead to Va-yeshev next week , and Mi-ketz in two weeks. We conclude with the burial of Isaac and its significance. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashah Talk, with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky has gone international! Eliot recorded the show in Ottawa, Ontario, where he is visiting his mother, while Jeremy and I were in our customary places in New York City and Long Island. Parashat Va-yetze [Genesis 28:10-32:3] has long been one of, if not my very favorite parashah. Not only was it my Bar Mitzvah parashah [1968] but also my wife, Carol’s [1974]. And since my Hebrew name is Ya-aqov, Jacob has always been one of my most favorite biblical characters. Each week before we record we kick around ideas for about a half hour. Some of what we discuss in our initial conversation makes it into the recording in one form or another [I think every week one of us makes mention of our prior conversation]. And even though this happened again this week, I do not remember another recording that seemed so different from our initial conversation. We talked about the well, the character of Jacob and Lavan, the pathos of Leah, among other things. While we did not run out of things to talk about, we did run out of time. There is always next week! Shabbat Shalom!!

Come join us for Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky's Parsha Talk. Parashat Toldot [Genesis 25:19-28:9] lives up to its opening words וְאֵלֶּה תּוֹלְדֹת יִצְחָק בֶּן־אַבְרָהָם אַבְרָהָם הוֹלִיד אֶת־יִצְחָק, [ve-elleh toldot yitzhaq ben avraham, avraham ho’lid et yitzchak, “these are the generations of Isaac the son of Abraham, Avraham fathered Isaac], for it features the crucial events in Isaac’s life after the Binding of Isaac [ch. 22] and the securing of a wife for him [ch. 24]. Our conversation is spirited, focusing on the character of Isaac and the character of Esau, sometimes in comparison with Jacob. Give a listen and let us know what you think at parshatalk@gmail.com, where comments and criticisms are always welcome. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. The parashah this week, parashat Chayyei Sarah [Genesis 23:1-25:18) pretty much covers the life cycle: There are the deaths of Sarah, Abraham, and Ishmael; the marriage of Isaac and Rebecca; the births of Abraham’s last six sons. We spend a lot of time talking about Abraham, it is our last chance this Torah reading cycle, and some time talking about Rebecca. and of necessity, Isaac; according to Jeremy, the three patriarchs are Abraham, Rebecca, and Jacob. I have been assured this show is one of the best, so feel free to respond with your own thoughts at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky - Parashat Va-yera [Genesis 18-22] begins with the arrival of the messengers of God to the tent of the recovering Abraham [he circumcised himself and all the males of his household at the end of last week’s parashah] to announce the upcoming birth of Isaac to the elderly Abraham and Sarah. It ends with Abraham sacrificing a ram in the place of his son Isaac on an altar the rabbis will later place on the Temple Mount. But the actual conclusion is a five-sentence coda announcing the birth of Rebecca, who will ultimately marry Isaac, in next week’s parashah. The Torah has a wonderful way of compressing time in the telling of its stories. The three of us, in our conversation, struggled valiantly to compress time so we could get in as much as possible in our allotted time. Please let us know if you think we succeeded! We receive e-mail at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

With Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Parashat Lekh L’kha [Genesis 12-17] marks Avram’s entrance into the land that God would show him, identified as the land of Canaan [12:5]. He has left his father Terach in Haran, giving powerful punch to the command to Avram to depart “your land, your birthplace, and your father’s house”. Chizkuni, the medieval commentator, explains that the Torah mentions that Avram was 75 [12:4] in order to teach us that Terach was still alive [145, with 60 more years to live]. Avram, renamed Avraham later in the parashah [17:5], appears in a number of scenes, not all of which portray him as well as one might like or even expect. We had a lively conversation exploring the character of Avraham, and invite you to send us your votes for favorite patriarch or matriarch at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

With Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky - It is parashat Noach [Genesis 6:9-11:32] on Parashah Talk, which always brings back a flood of memories. As we turn over the story of Noah we do not get much beyond his character and the question of how we should evaluate him. Is he the one-eyed man who sees far in the land of the blind but perhaps not even half as well as the one with two eyes, or is even greater than Avraham, who did not have to contend, at least in the Torah, with evil on the magnitude of Noah’s generation? We also talk about the genealogies of the 3 sons of Noah, and the more limited one from Shem to Avram, as he is known when we first meet him. Please let us know how you look at Noah, or anything else, at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky - Parashah Talk is back for another season! After a couple of weeks to talk about the holidays, we are back to the weekly parashah. This week, the first Shabbat after Simchat Torah, we begin all over again with Parashat B’reshit [Genesis 1:1-6:8]. While the text remains the same, we are a year older, and hopefully wiser, so we look at the text from a slightly different, perhaps more elevated, perspective. We are grateful for the opportunity to talk Torah, and hope you enjoy listening and/or watching! Shabbat Shalom!!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky - The High Holy Day season, which began with Rosh Chodesh Elul, the 1st of the Hebrew month of Elul [this year, August 9, 2021], comes to a triumphant climax this week with Shabbat Chol Ha-Mo’ed Sukkot, whose Torah reading features the 13 attributes [which we discussed in the Yom Kippur edition] and the reading of Sefer Qohelet [the Book of Ecclesiastes], Hoshanah Rabbah on Monday, Sh’mini Atzeret on Tuesday, and Simchat Torah on Wednesday. We cover each of these in turn as we wind up the Torah Reading cycle this year and look forward to beginning again on Simchat Torah with the first Creation story, and next Shabbat with the opening Torah portion of 5782! The three of us have had our lives enriched by coming together now nearly every week for the last year-and-a-half. We hope we have enriched your lives as well with our discussion of Torah! מועדים לשמחה is the customary greeting for this time of year. A joyous holiday season and a Good Year.

Parsha Talk: With Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. We are back with a special edition of Parashah Talk devoted to Yom Kippur. We discuss a range of topics: the haunting music of Kol Nidre, the last shofar blast and the Jubilee Year, the 13 Middot of God [Exodus 34:6-7] which are at the heart of the s’lichot [penitential prayers], the confessions of sins, among others. We hope you enjoy it! May we all be sealed in the Book of Life for the New Year!!

We have a special edition of Parashah Talk for Rosh Hashanah, whose conversation focuses mostly on the shofar and what it means to us to blow it and to listen to it. Because of the way Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur fall this year we will be back with a Yom Kippur edition in about two weeks. With best wishes for a Shanah Tovah U-m’tukah, a good and sweet year. May we all be inscribed for a year of blessing and Torah study!

Parsha alk with Rabbis Eliot Malmet, Jeremy Kalmonofky and Barry Chesler. The last four parashiyot [Torah Readings] of Sefer D’varim [Book of Deuteronomy] comprise fewer than five chapters, whereas the five before this week [Nitzavim, Deuteronomy 29:9-30:20] span 22 chapters. We address this point this week, exploring what Eliot calls parshaology. We mostly discuss just a few verses, the opening ones, the closing ones, perhaps a few others, including lo bashamayim hi [30:12, ‘it is not in heaven’], though we do not delve into its rabbinic use in the famous talmudic story, The Oven of Akhnai. This morning in minyan [the first staff day for the new school year], the Associate Head of School asked me about the dots over the words in 29:8. I knew they signified something, but could not remember at the time. Jeremy has a fascinating explanation! In the meanwhile, as we get ready for Rosh Hashanah next Monday night, the three of us wish everyone a Shabbat Shalom!

Parsha Talk; with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Ki Tavo [Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8] features 3 of the passages mentioned in the first 2 mishnayot of Tractate Sotah Chapter 7. There the rabbis list passages which may be recited in any language, since understanding is of utmost importance, and those which must be recited in Hebrew, because the ritual performance is paramount. The vidui ma’aser [confession over the tithe (Deut. 26: 12-15] may be recited in any language, whereas miqra biqqurim [the declaration over first fruits (Deut. 26:1-11)] and the b’rakhot u-q’lalot [blessings and curses (Deut. 27:11-26)], must be recited in Hebrew, the holy language. Chapter 28, by far the largest section of the parashah, contains the tohekhah [the rebuke, a lengthy list of curses which will afflict the Israelites for failure to keep God’s commandments]. Following longstanding rabbinic precedent, we mention a phrase from the haftarah so as not to end on a down note. Criticisms, comments, and questions are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashat Ki Tetze [Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19] has more commandments than any other parashah, what Eliot refers to as the greatest mitzvah density. With well over 10% of the rabbinic count of 613 commandments, we could hardly do justice to all of them. We spend a good chunk of time on the first 3: the law of the captive wife [21:10-14], the law of inheritance for the children of 2 different wives [21:15-17], and the law of the stubborn and rebellious son [21:18-21], discussing the laws individually as well as trying to ascertain what they have in common. We also talk about the sending of the mother bird away from her nest of fledglings or eggs before taking them [22:6-7]. While other laws came up, I hope this is enough to whet your appetite! Shabbat Shalom! Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler

Soundtrack recorded live. Featuring Machon and Kayitz 2021 Hofa'a band

Originally by Igal Bashan. A tribute to Mitch Mernick and Yaniv Morozovsky.

Parashat Shoftim [Deuteronomy 16:9-21:9] with its miscellany of laws is a kind of prequel to Parashat Ki Tetze [Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19], which has the largest number of mitzvot [commandments] of any single parashah, well over 10% of the rabbinic total of 613. Shoftim, which means judges, focuses on the different kinds of leaders: judges, kings, clergy, and prophets. There are also rules for warfare, among other subjects. One feature which we did not address is the last occurrence in the Torah of the lex talion [the law of revenge, better known as ‘an eye for an eye’]. In these parashiyot in particular, there is much to talk about: what laws meant in their original context, what they mean today, what they mean to us as individuals. If I say I am uncertain what it all means, after you listen, you will understand this reference! Shabbat Shalom!!

Join us for Parasha Podcast - The Next Generation: Shoftim. This is the final episode of Kayitz 2021 podcast produced by Dr Alison Joseph's Yahadut class. This week's podcast features Maya, Bianca, Maya (a different Maya), Shira and Lotam. Take a listen to this interesting discussion of justice and leadership.

Our Machon boys are back with thoughts about Yom Sport and their latest debate. How do YOU eat Oreos?

Live soundtrack of Adat Habogrim performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. Produced by Adat HaBogrim and Tzevet Hofa'a, featuring the CRB Hofa'a Band. Recorded at the new outdoor theater at Bet Am Bet by Amy Erlanger for Radio Kol Ramah.

The boys of Machon make us think about whether a hot dog is a sandwich. What do you think?

Weekly podcast by campers for campers. Dr Alison Joseph's Yahadut class features Annie and Emily discussing blessings and consequences and Tzvi with insights on Kashrut and Shmitah. Special visit with Camp Mashgiach Josh Bender. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashat Re'eh [Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17] is a special one in my family (BC)because it was the parashah when both my girls became Bat Mitzvah in the synagogue, 11 years apart. It is special in the book of Deuteronomy because it is the beginning of the core of the book, according to modern scholars, which extends into Parashat Ki Tavo, in another 3 weeks. One of the tropes of Deuteronomy is the centralization of worship, where our conversation begins. It ends somewhere down the road a piece. Shabbat Shalom!

A story hour with Shorashim.

I play so much Hebrew Disney, so why not explore it? And, yes, I do sing here.

Another episode featuring Gesher with a surprise phone call.

Jonah Seidenfeld (not pictured),Harris Cohen, Sam Feldman, and Rafi Rockman talk to Kol Ramah about skipping Bechirot and what goes on in Chug.

Parashat Eqev [Deuteronomy 7:12-11:28] features, among other things, the 2nd paragraph of the Shema [11:13-21], which we discuss in light of its last line and the general Deuteronomic theme of שכר ועונש [s’khar v-o’nesh, reward & punishment], the biblical source for ברכת המזון [birkat ha-mazon, grace after meals], which we discuss in the context of how punctuation informs meaning, and the rabbinic limit on praise of God in תפילה [t’fillah, prayer] (10:17), which we do not discuss at all! We do get to a few verses of the haftarah [prophetic portion, Isaiah 49:14-51:3]. It is a lively conversation! Comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com.

The kids of Gan say hi to their families!!!

The Ta'am kids interview their counselor.

The boys asked to do a singalong.

One of the cutest things you'll ever listen to.

Zimryah 2021 - All together in the Ulam!

Join Dr. Alison Joseph's Yahadut class as they explore Ve'etchanan. Wonderful interviews of campers by campers touching on tefila, cities of refuge, life of Moshe and more! Featuring Eden, Anna, Talia, Adira, Adina, Razi and Jake.

I (BC)am posting this from Cleveland, to where I have come for the funeral of my dearest and best friend, David Graham Foster, affectionately known as Fuzz [at least in my circle] for nearly all the fifty years we were friends. תהי נשמתו צרורה בצרור החיים. May his soul be bound up in the bond of eternal life. יהי זכרו ברוך. May his memory be for a blessing. Parashat Va-etchanan [Deuteronomy 3:23-7:11] contains, among other things of note, both the first paragraph of the Sh’ma [6:4-9] and the retelling of the 10 Commandments [5:6-17]. As Eliot explains in his introduction, it is the kind of parashah where we could spend an hour on each verse. We give ourselves about a half hour, 35 minutes most weeks, so there is much we do not get to. One of the reasons I like Parashah Talk myself is because each week I learn something. I know that I will not be saying the Sh’ma again in quite the same way! Let us know what you think at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Eitan and Kenny Winkelman-Batchelor guide us through some Klezmer and Balkan hits.

Shorashim gets into a war with each other over food.

Nitzanim talks about bunk wars, cereal, and sports.

We sit down with Gesher. Give us donuts plz.

A3 has taken over!!!!

Machon has a chat with us.

Campers from Sollelim, Bogrim and Machon explore Parashat Devarim with Alison Joseph, Tzevet Chinuch.

Tzeirim Campers wrote, produced and acted in this original production. This wonderful project was led by Landon Braverman,of tzevet Hofa'a as part of Make Your Own Musical. Listen carefully and see if you recognize a special guest cameo appearance

Tzeirim talks about movies on 102.3FM

Parashat Devarim [Deuteronomy 1:1-3:22] always coincides with Shabbat Hazon [“Hazon” is the first word of the haftarah, Isaiah 1:1-27], the Shabbat before the commemoration of Tisha B’Av [the 9th of the Hebrew month Av], which commemorates the destruction of the two Temples, among other tragedies which have befallen the Jewish people, going back to the day the Israelites were punished for the negative report of the 10 spies [Numbers 13-14]. We spend about half of our time talking about the importance and place of Deuteronomy, and the other half talking about the haftarah and Tisha B’Av. As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Segment from Bogrim show. Weather/ Would You Rather.

Our famous annual July 4 concert at the Ulam-only on radio Kol Ramah

Live soundtrack of the original cast, edited. Performed by Gesher 2021 produced with Tzevet Hofa'a and our own Ramah Berkshires Band.

Tzeirim talks about the Gesher Show and whatever else is on their minds.

Bogrim talks about pasta.

For over fifteen months, Eliot, Jeremy, and I have been meeting on Zoom each week to discuss the parashah [the weekly Torah reading] and other items of interest, and to record a podcast known as Parashah Talk. It has become one of the highlights of my week, both the opportunity to meet in friendship and the opportunity to talk Torah, one of my great loves. Week in and week out we met, sometimes on a Wednesday, sometimes on a Thursday, sometimes on another day. Finally, our respective schedules caught up with us, and a week ago Sunday we recorded two shows. So, I do not quite remember what we talked about! Parashat Mattot-Massai [Numbers 30:2-36:13] is one of the longest readings of the year, and concludes the Book of Numbers. There is the cancellation of vows by a father or a husband for his daughter or wife, which often occasions comment in the modern world for the apparent bias/discrimination against women; there is the successful [and problematic] war against Midian after which Moshe will be gathered unto his people [the poetic image of death used often in the Bible]; there is the request by Reuven, Gad, and the half-tribe of Menashe for land on the east side of the Jordan; there is the litany of places the Israelites travelled in their 40 years of wandering; there is the division of land, both by lot and by size; there is the provision for levitical cities and the cities of asylum for the unintentional murderer; and there is the conclusion of the story about the daughters of Zelophehad. To add to this lengthy list of topics about which we might have talked, there is the seasonal as well. This Friday is the end of the month of Tammuz, and Shabbat is the beginning of the month of Av, whose beginning marks an intensification of national mourning leading up to Tisha B’Av [the 9th of Av], commemorating the destruction of the two Temples in Jerusalem, and other catastrophes which have befallen the Jewish people. This Shabbat is also the 7th yahrtzeit of my late father, Mel Chesler, of blessed memory. You will have to actually listen to find out what we talked about! Shabbat Shalom!!

Hayom Shehaya - July 5, 2021- Part 3- Solelim by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

Continue with Max on his journey as camp historian. Recorded at Camp Ramah Berkshire July 4, 2021 There is nothing new under the sun, from health scared (Polio 1949)through July 4th parties. Picture raising the flag, undated photo.

The Solelim Show of July 7, 2021.

An episode of the Kochavim show. So much fun.

Excerpts from Bogrim and Tzeirim shows.

Excerpts from the 4th of July at Camp Ramah in the Berkshires: A special morning show with Amy Erlanger and Yaniv Morozovsky interviewing campers from all edot and giving shoutouts to their friends and family on this special day. Also, listen to the first Gan and Chaverim show, featuring Rosh T'filah, Rabbi Uri Allen.

Listen to old-time Israeli songs and hear Shabbat greetings from staff at Camp Ramah in the Berkshires.

An hour of Disney soundtracks, mostly in Hebrew with Israeli Mishlachat members, Shira Gross and Yaniv Morozovsky.

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler, and Jeremy Kalmanofsky discuss Parshat Pinhas! Parashat Pinhas [Numbers 25:10-30:1] concludes the story with which last week’s parashah [Balaq (Num. 22:2-25:9)] ended, the apostasty at Baal Peor and the extra-judicial killing of Zimri and Cozbi by Pinhas. We discuss whether or not zeal can be a good thing, and how we should evaluate Pinhas’ actions. We spend some time on the census, noting some of the anomoalies this time around, on the appointment of Joshua as successor, and on the daughters of Zelophehad, whose query of Moshe about inheritance law leads to a change in how women who have no brothers inherit from their fathers. As always, there is much we leave out, such as the apportionment of the land and an extended discussion of the holidays. But, there is always next year! Shabbat Shalom!!

Listen to the interviews and the highlights of the Opening Day Show for Kayitz 2021 on Kol Ramah, including camp staff, campers, and guests.

Which sauce is better - Tomato or Pesto? That's only one of the major questions asked on the first full day of camp. Listen to the Solelim and Bogrim shows, and to interviews aired on July 1st 2021 on Kol Ramah. Hosted by Amy Erlanger, Mitch Mernick and Yaniv Morozovsky

The first day of Kayitz (summer) 2021 was more exciting than ever! After a 1 year break, the campers were thrilled to come to Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, meet their friends (and new buddies) and enjoy their summer. As always, Kol Ramah aired the event on a special 4 hour show, including interviews with camp director, Rabbi Ethan Linden, camp staff, Israeli Mishlachat and of course - lots of happy campers! This year, Kol Ramah has a brand new mobile studio, and our own Amy Erlanger used it to capture the exciting first moments of the summer. Yaniv Morozovsky and Mitch Mernick were in the studio, talking to special guests from the Ramah family, calling in from all over the USA, and as always, playing the best Israeli music - new and old.

Parsashat Balaq [Numbers 22:2-25:9] is perhaps best-known for the story of Balaam and his donkey, one of the few animals in the Torah to be given a talking role. Balaq, the king of Moab, is eager to protect himself and his nation from the Israelites, and tries to hire Balaam to curse the Israelites. In short, that mission ends in failure for Balaq, since Balaam is compelled to bless the Israelies. One verse [Numbers 24:5] is well-known to synagogue-goers, recited on entering a synagogue, Mah tovu ohalekha ya’aqov, mish’knotekha yisrael [How goodly are your tents, Jacob, your dwelling-places, Israel]. The parashah ends with half of the story of the apostasy at Baal Peor [Numbers 25:1-9], which will conclude next week. Staff week has begun at Camp Ramah Berkshires, where this show originated. A shoutout to all the staff, especially Mitch Mernick! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parashat Huqqat [Numbers 19:1-22:1] begins with the curious ritual of the red heifer, the cow which is completely burned so that its ashes might be sprinkled on all who come into contact with any part of a dead human being [corpse, bone, battle death, grave] in a ritual designed to restore to ritual purity those who have become impure by what is known as corpse contamination or corpse defilement, the highest degree of impurity. This ritual, also read on Shabbat Parah, the third of the four special shabbatot before Passover, is followed by the story of Moses & The Rock, which we have discussed before, but offer something new this year. We also consider the death of Aaron, compare it to the death of Miriam, which introduces the Moses & The Rock story, and Moses as diplomat, in his dealings with the locals whose land he wishes he and the people can traverse. It was a robust conversation, if I do say so myself, though as is often the case, we do not get to all that we thought we wanted to discuss. Please send comments and criticisms to parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashat Korach [Numbers 16-18], featured on this week’s Parashah Talk, is primarily concerned with Korach’s rebellion. As Jacob Milgrom observes in his JPS Torah Commentary on Numbers, the Torah story combines elements of 4 discrete rebellions. I would like to say that we discussed these rebellions in full, but technical difficulties prevented me from participating as much as I would have liked. For stretches of the recording, my colleagues were frozen on my screen, and I was unable to hear them. Such is life in the 21st century! I hope my comments in this portion of the recording were to the point, but I am certain that Eliot and Jeremy had much to say even without me! Shabbat Shalom!! Image: The Punishment of Korah (detail from the fresco Punishment of the Rebels by Sandro Botticelli (1480–1482) in the Sistine Chapel) - Wikipedia

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky invite you into the rabbi's study once again! The main focus of Parashah Sh’lach L’chah [Numbers 13-15] is the tragic episode of the spies, the tribal chieftains sent to scout out the land. Their negative report sets back Israelite history a generation, for those over 20 are condemned to die in the wilderness, leader and follower alike. For the rabbis, the day of their evil report, the 9th of Av, prefigures the destruction of both the First and Second Temples, among other bad things that befell the Jewish people, and some have associated any number of catastrophes since then with this date. Our conversation focuses likewise on the spies, exploring the psychological dimensions of the portrayal and comparing this sin with the sin of the Golden Calf [Exodus 32:1-33:23]. We conclude with a consideration of the mitzvah of tzitzit, the fringes traditionally worn on four-cornered garments. Shabbat Shalom!

We recorded Parashah Talk a day early and managed to run late. There was so much to talk about in B’ha’alot’khah [Numbers 8-12]: the second Passover, the silver trumpets, the complaining people and the summons to prophecy of the 70, and the concluding story about Miriam’s and Aaron’s complaint about Moses and his gift of prophecy. And even here, we left things out and did not go into the depth we might have wanted. There should be something for everyone, so take what you need and leave the rest . . . . Shabbat Shalom! Image thestudioinvenice.com

Parsha Talk Naso 5781with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler - Parashah Talk for Naso [Numbers 4:21-7:89] features conversation about the Nazir [Num. 6:1-21] and the haftarah from Judges 13:2-25, about the birth of Samson], the Sotah [the woman suspected of adultery [Num. 5:11-31], the Priestly Blessing [Num. 6:22-27], and the gifts to the mishkan [Tabernacle] from the chiefs of the tribes [Num 7:1-89]. It is the longest single weekly parashah, if our information is corrext, so we were pleased to cover most of it in our half hour or so. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashat B’midbar [Num. 1:1-4:20] opens Sefer B’midbar [Book of Numbers] with a census of the Israelite men aged 20 and over, suitable for military service. And if that were not dry enough, the census information is repeated, given as the 4 camps [one for each direction (east-south-west-north)]. Eliot could not quite bring himself to say it was an amazing parashah, but I think we did it, and ourselves, credit. We found meaning in the details of the census, discussed the exchange of Levites and first-born as religious functionaries, and discussed Shavuot, the two-day holiday celebrating the Giving of Torah which begins Sunday night. At the beginning and end we expressed our concern for the situation in Israel, and to her people and those who are there, which includes our children, extended family, and friends. May God grant our request for peace for Israel, her people, and all who dwell on earth. Shabbat Shalom! Chag Sameach! (Image by Cole Keister)

Parsha Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. As with so many years, our reading of Leviticus this year comes to an end with a double portion, B’har-B’huqotai [Lev. 25-27]. We discuss the laws of the sabbatical year and the jubilee year, and Rashi’s famous comment on the first verse [you have to listen to the podcast for the pop-cultural reference with which it is connected]. There are rules for the poor, and the תוכחה [tokhehah, the lengthy passage of rebuke with the description of what will befall the people and their land for the failure to observe God’s commandments]. As is our wont, the conversation meanders, which is perhaps appropriate for a reading with a 7-year and a 50-year cycle. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashah Talk for Emor [Lev. 21-24) was recorded a day early this week, but as befits a parashah entitled Emor [“Say”], we had a lot about which to talk. We covered the material in the parashah: the curious wording of the 1st verse in the Hebrew (21:1), the requirements, restrictions, and limitations on the kohen [priest] (21-22), the notion of qiddush ha-shem [sanctification of God’s name] (22:31-33), the holidays (23), and the blasphemer (24). We took note of current events, the death of Bernie Madoff, and connected it with the Torah reading. Before you know it, we will be concluding the Book of Leviticus, with next week’s double portion, B’har-B’hukotai. Shabbat Shalom!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler for Parsha Talk! Parashat Acharai Mot-Kedoshim [Leviticus 16-20] is the subject of Parashah Talk this week. According to the rabbis, this is not only the center of Leviticus, but of the Torah as well. Leviticus 19:18, ואהבת לרעך כמוך, “love your neighbor as yourself”, is the basis for the Golden Rule. According to Rabbi Aqiva, it is the great principle of the Torah. We touch on this as well as the general theme of holiness [suggested by “Kedoshim”, the name of the 2nd parashah, meaning in context “be holy”] and the Yom Kippur ritual [Lev. 16], which is rather different in the Torah than it is in modern-day observance. There should be something here for everyone. Shabbat Shalom!

Come join us with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. It is a double portion on Parashah Talk, Tazria-M'tzora [Lev. 12-15] and Yom Ha'atzma'ut, the observance of Israel's Independence Day [actual date-is April 17th, this year, which conflicts with Shabbat, necessitating the observance moving to Thursday]. It is, as my good buddy Ellot always notes, an amazing parashah. See if we connect all the dots, and let us know! Yom Ha-atzma'ut Same'ach! Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler once again invite us all in to the rabbis study tor a lively discussion of this week's parsha, Shemini. (Image - https://atravesdelasescrituras.com/) Parashah Talk for Sh'mini [Leviticus 9-11]: When I (BC) used to teach the story of Nadav and Avihu in 10th Grade Bible, I would refer to it as a "Tragedy in Three Verses" [Leviticus 10:1-3]. Each of these verses is subject to more than one interpretation, and how you put these interpretations together results in very different readings. Did Nadav and Avihu do anything wrong, and if so, what? What does it mean to die in the presence of God: is this spiritual or geographical? And are Moses' words in verse 3 meant to console Aaron or to rebuke him? There is a lot more in the Torah reading [each week, I've been told, we encounter another amazing reading], but we spent most of our time on this story. We hope you like it! Shabbat Shalom!!

Parashah Talk, the Pesach Edition: Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chester. This Shabbat is the 7th day of Passover, when we read the beginning of Parashat B'shallach [Exodus 13:17-15:27, last read on January 30], featuring the Song of the Sea [Exodus 15:1-21]. On Sunday, the Torah reading is the same as the 2nd day of Shavuot and Sh'mini Atzeret [Deuteronomy 15:19-16:17]. There is a longstanding tradition to read the Song of Songs on the Shabbat of Pesach [unless Shabbat is both 1st and 8th day, when it is read on the 8th day]. Our discussion focuses first on the Song of the Sea, and then on Song of Songs. Shabbat Shalom & Chag Sameach!

This week, the Shabbat before Pesach, is known as Shabbat Hagadol, for reasons that are not entirely clear. In European Jewish communities, it was one of two shabbatot [the other being Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur] when the community rabbi would address his flock. Traditionally, the rabbi would speak about the laws of Pesach; one might think it a little late to do that when Pesach began on a Saturday night! In Parashat Talk this week, we divided our conversation between the weekly reading, Parashat Tsav [Leviticus 6:1-8:36], with the presentation of the sacrifices from the priests’ perspective [unlike last week, when they were presented from the offerer’s perspective], the fire kept going by the priests, and the ordination/investiture ceremony for the priests [which will conclude in parashat Sh’mini, in two weeks], and favorite passages from the Haggadah. A Shabbat Shalom and Zissen Pesach [Happy Passover] to one and all!

We begin a new book of the Torah this week, ספר ויקרא [Leviticus], which gives its name to the parashah [Leviticus 1:1-5:26] as well, va-yiqra. We spend some time discussing the nature of the book, quite unlike Genesis and Exodus, the layered meanings of the first verse, and the laying on of the hands [1:4] as it appears here, and elsewhere. And before you know it, with so much left to say, our time is up! Shabbat Shalom!!

This week, parashat va-yaqhel-p’qudei [Exodus 35:1-40:38], is where it all began. Parashah Talk in its current format has been produced each week for the last year. This is our response to the Covid 19 pandemic. It has given Eliot, Jeremy, and I a chance to deepen our friendship which was rooted in many summers together at Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. While we hardly saw each other throughout the camp off-seasons, this year we have been together every week on Zoom. For you who have listened and viewed, we hope our conversation about Torah has deepened your own understanding and appreciation of Torah. For me it remains one of the highlights of each and every week for the past year. Shabbat Shalom! (Image chabad.org)

Meet the newest member of the Radio Kol Ramah staff: This is a rebroadcast of a 2019 interview with Mitch Mernick at Yiddish New York. You surely want to hear about Amy's experience with WFDU-FM, The radio station of Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler for Parsha Talk! Parashat Ki Tissa [Exodus 30:11-34:35] coincides with Shabbat Parah [Numbers 19:1-22], the third of the 4 special shabbatot [sabbaths] before the upcoming Pesach [Passover] holiday. One way of considering this conjuction is as the story of a bad cow [the Golden Calf (Exodus 32)] and a good cow [the so-called red heifer in Numbers whose ashes are required for the ritual of purification after corpse contamination]. We spend most of our time talking about the bad cow, but the good cow does get a shout-out, as does Shabbat, whose 2-verse feature in the parashah [Exodus 31:16-17] has become part of the Saturday morning amidah [central prayer of the morning worship service] and kiddush. We hope this puts you in the right “moo”d for Shabbat! (Image from Chabad.org)

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler for Parsha Talk! Because Purim is observed Thursday night, and many of us will be davening ma’ariv [praying the evening service] and reading the megillah [the Scroll of Esther] at the time we normally record Parashah Talk, this week we recorded Wednesday evening. We have parashat T’tzaveh [Exodus 27:20-30:10], taken up mostly with a description of the special vestments of the High Priest, and a few minutes to explore the greatness of Purim. Give a listen! Let us know what you think at parshatalk@gmail.com. As we begin to gear up for Passover, just a month after Purim [March 27th, to be precise], we hope to devote some time to questions previously sent to us. New questions, comments, and criticisms are always welcome. Purim Same’ach [Happy Purim]! Shabbat Shalom!!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler for Parsha Talk! This week is the 2nd of the 4 special Shabbatot before Pesach. In addition to the regular Torah reading of T'ruman [Exodus 25:1-27:19], which begins the lengthy section on the description of and building of the mishkan ["tabernacle"], there is a special maftir (additional reading) [Deuteronomy 25:17-19] and haftarah (prophetic reading) [1 Samuel 15:2-34] concerning the war against Amalek. Our conversation is pretty much equally divided between T'rumah and Zakhor [the commandment to remember to destroy Amalek], from the point of view of time. Dare I say we have interesting observations and commentary in both halves! As always, questions, comments, and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. We still plan on answering all questions by Passover, the liturgical time to ask and answer questions. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashat Mishpatim [Exodus 21:1-24:18] contains the Covenant Code, the first extended legal section of the Torah. The laws themselves defy easy categorization; the rabbis of the Mishnah used their own organizational system in Seder N'ziqin [Damages], the Mishnah's 4th Order, whose foundation is in the Covenant Code. Our conversation meanders through the parashah, with due time devoted to chapter 24, a return to narrative and the famous response of the Israelites: na'aseh v-nishma [you will have to listen to find out how we understand this engimatic phrase!]. As always, comments, criticisms, and suggestions are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Do not despair, we do intend to get to questions previously asked [even as we look forward to new ones]. Sometimes we get carried away by our own conversation! Shabbat Shalom!!

Max Silverstone, music staff at Camp Ramah and 2nd year cantorial student at JTS, returns to Radio Kol Ramah with Mitch Mernick for an in-depth look at original research he is compiling on the history and music of the the site that we call Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. Of note, there has been an organized Jewish presence on the shores of Lake Ellis for over 100 years! Tracks: 1940 Bob Chester - Maybe (Dolores O'Neill, vocal) Riobamba – Leonard Bernstein 1935 Sid Peltyn - Lullaby Of Broadway (Dick Robertson, vocal) Frank Sinatra, Stubby Kaye, and Johnny Silver - Guys And Dolls from Guys And Dolls (1955) It Hurts to Say Goodbye Al Naharot Bavel Kanar Al Hagag. Let's Give a Cheer for Kee-Wah Wah Farewell Himnon Ramah Produced by Max Silverstone Co-produced and edited by Mitch Mernick

Parashat Yitro [Exodus 18:1-20:22] is best known for the original narration of the 10 Commandments. They will appear again in Deuteronomy 5, when Moses is reviewing for the people their history and narrates them again. The episode in Exodus is known as מעמד הר סיני [ma'amad har sinai, "the standing at Sinai"], and is the central event in the Jewish people's self-understanding. Chapter 18 focuses on Yitro, Moshe's father-in-law, and has its own intereset, We spend time on both chapter 18 and chapters 19-20, we hope to your benefit! Comments, questions, and criticisms welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Parashat B'shallach [Exodus 13:17-17:16] features the Song of the Sea, the triumphant poem of redemption sung by the Israelites when they have crossed the Sea of Reeds and turn around to see the Egyptians dead on the opposite shore. Rather than poetry, our conversation is more about prose: the character and leadership of Moses, the character of the Israelites as they cross over, ostensibly into freedom, the institution of Shabbat, and the battle with the Amalekites. Give a listen to Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler on Parsha Talk! Comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. While we read the mail and intend to answer questions on the next show, we are not always successful. Do not despair! Send the question again! There is, for the forseeable future, always next week!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler for Parsha Talk. Parashat Bo [Exodus 10:1-13:16] covers the last three plagues [locusts, darkness, and the slaying of the first-born] and includes chapter 12 [one of my favorite chapters in the entire Torah] and the beginning section of chapter 13 [which is actually more than half the chapter going by the verse count]. This beginning section is perhaps better known to us from tefillin, worn at weekday morning services, which has four Torah passages in its boxes [the first and second paragraphs of the Sh'ma and Ex. 13:1-10 and 13:11-16]. Chapter 12 itself is read, in addition to this week, on Shabbat Hachodesh [verses 1-20, March 13 this year], the Shabbat just before or coinciding with Rosh Chodesh Nisan, and on the first day of Passover [verses 21-51, this year on March 28]. In addition, we have some of the questions associated with the 4 sons of the Passover Seder. So we will get another crack at some of this material! Comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Join us on this MLK weekend as we celebrate and remember Dr. King, whose transformative message is tied to our early chapters of the book of Shemot. Parashat Va-era [Exodus 6:2-9:35] opens with a theological bang, the declaration by God that He did not make Himself known to the patriarchs by the same name as He made Himself known to Moses [6:2-3]. A little later, Moses gives, as it were, his first sermon [in particular, 6:6-8], with the 4-5 words of redemption which are each represented by a cup of wine at the Passover Seder. The people do not listen, because of qotzer ru'ah [diminished spirit] and hard work; a modern idiom might say that Moses bombed! And then we get the first seven plagues. Our conversation meanders, as is our wont, but there should be something for everyone! As always, comments and criticisms are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Join Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Sh'mot [Exodus 1:1-6:1], which takes its name from the first key word, sh'mot [names], as does the book itself, is better described by the Latin/Greek name Exodus, since that is the, or at least a, great theme of the book. But the events that lead up to the Exodus and the Exodus itself take up less than the first half of the book. Within the first few verses, b'nai Yisrael, the children of the patriarch Jacob who had been renamed Israel, become b'nai Yisrael, the people Israel. Indeed, the Hebrew word עם [am, people], is used for the first time in connection with the people in verse 9, by Pharaoh, which is appropriate, since names are often how other people call us, not necessarily how we call ourselves. In a parashah which collapses the first 80 years of Moses' life into a few chapters, there is a lot going on. The central part of the reading for those on the annual cycle is the scene at the Burning Bush, which we discuss. But events in the US yesterday also attract our attention, as we puzzle out what the Torah might possibly have to say about our national situation. As always, the conversation is spirited, and we hope that you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed recording! Shabbat Shalom!!

The last edition of Parashah Talk 2020 is now available for the New Year with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler. Parashat Va-yehi [Genesis 47:28-50:26] concludes ספר בראשית [Book of Genesis]. With the conclusion of the book comes the blessing of Ephraim and Menashe, Jacob's last words to his sons, the death of Jacob and the return of his remains to Canaan, the last scene between Joseph and his brothers, and the death of Joseph, with the promise of returning his remains to Canaan one day. As always the conversation is spirited. Comments and criticisms welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler bring us Parsha Talk! It is the last Shabbat of 2020 but the penultimate parashah of Sefer Bereshit. Va-yiggash [Genesis 44:18-47:27] describes the reconciliation of Joseph and his brothers, the move to Egypt of Jacob and his entire family, and Jacob's meeting with Pharaoh. As if there were not enough in the parashah itself to talk about, we touch upon the ones for next week [the end of Genesis] and in two weeks [the beginning of Exodus]. I think you will find something to think about! Comments, criticisms, questions welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com.

Because the first day of Hanukkah was on Friday and we record Parashah Talk on Thursday, we have the 2nd Hanukkah edition of Parashah Talk for 5781. Parashat Miketz [Genesis 41:1-44:17] is the 2nd of the 3 parashiyot which focus on Joseph and his brothers. Joseph rises to 2nd in command to Pharaoh on the basis of his dream interpretation and suggested program for how to deal with the coming famine, he reencounters his brothers after 20+ years, and Benjamin is discovered to have the royal goblet. We focused on the character of Joseph, with some attention spent on the character of the butler, even comparing the butler to Haman (!). A discussion of the meaning of the names of Joseph's two sons suggests a comparison between Joseph and Moses. Along the way we talk about the possibilities and difficulties of Jews in Exile [or the Diaspora, as we like to say nowadays]. Comments welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. A Happy Hanukkah to one and all on this last night of Hanukkah! Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler.

Presented by Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler. Our first Hanukkah edition of Parashah Talk! This week is parashat Va-yeshev [Genesis 37:1-40:23], the beginning of the Joseph story in earnest [we have been previously introduced to him], which will carry through to the end of the book in another 3 weeks. This week we have Joseph's dreams, his sale into slavery, his stay in Potiphar's house, and his imprisonment with the butler and baker. There is the curious story of Judah and Tamar, which, like Hanukkah, we did not have time for. At least with Hanukkah, we have another crack next week! With best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom and Hag Urim Same'ah [a peaceful Shabbat and a joyous Festival of Lights]!

Parsha Talk - Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler. This week, Va-yishlach [Genesis 32:4-36:43], the parashah covers a lot of ground; we perhaps not so much. We wrestle with the texts, particularly the wrestling match between Jacob and the angel, and the reconciliation between Esau and Jacob. Along the way we make connections to a number of other stories in the Torah, which often provides unexpected food for thought. Comments and criticisms welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com!

In recognition of our wonderful medical staff, Max shares medical stories from Wingdale, Lake Ellis and Camp Kee - Wah going back to the to the 1940s and 1950s. Did you know one year there was a milk shortage at camp? Join our virtual L'Chaim Gala https://www.ramahberkshires.org/gala2020/, honoring our medical, nursing and Marp staff! December 5, 8:00 PM

Rabbi Barry Chesler writes: This week's parashah, Vayetze [Genesis 28:10-32:3], holds a special place in my heart. A mere 52 years ago I was called to the Torah as a Bar Mitzvah at South Suburban Beth Israel Synagogue, as it was then known, Park Forest, Illinois. Six years later, unbeknownst to me at the time, Carol became a Bat Mitzvah this same parashah, in University City, Missouri. The parashah begins and ends with a journey; in-between Jacob gets married twice, fathers 12 children with 4 women, and acquires large herds. There is much to discuss; as with all the parashiyot in Genesis, the central task is deciding what not to talk about. While there is much we could have talked about, we filled our time well. Send us a message at parshatalk@gmail.com to let us know if you agree! Parsha Talk is brought to us by Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet; Jeremy Kalomonofsky and Barry Chesler bring us Parsha Talk! Parashat Toldot [Genesis 25:19-28:10] takes us from the birth of the twins, Esau and Jacob, to the leaving of Jacob for Paddan Aram to find a wife from among his kin and the marriage of Esau to a daughter of Ishmael to please his parents. Perhaps the two key stories are the selling of the birthright [b'khorah] and the blessing [b'rakhah] of the twins by Isaac. There is much to discuss and we get into it! Now it is your turn!!

In 1910, Joseph D. Weil founded the College Camp and Pine Forest Colony, which later became Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. In 1939, shortly before his passing, he transferred ownership of the camp to his only child, Linton Weil. In 1942, Linton left Wingdale for New York City to open a nightclub in midtown called The Riobamba. Linton still owned camp, which Joseph's widow Rose operated in his absence. Linton funded the Riobamba, however, with $45,000 that he made from camp. Inflation adjusted for today, that's nearly three quarters of a million dollars! Its namesake being a city in Ecuador, the Riobamba's decorations had a Latin American theme to them. It was also inspired by a popular club of the time, the Copacabana. For Riobamba's opening night, Weil and his team brought in Jane Froman and the Chandra-Kaly dancers. Froman comissioned a theme song for the club, paying $50 to composer. Who was this composer? A not yet well-known Jew from Massachusetts named Leonard Bernstein! This song uses many different musical motifs as a window into meeting the different peoples and cultures who lived in Riobamba over thousands of years. The club became a huge success on day 1, partly thanks to this song being such an exciting opener. While this song itself is not well known today, Bernstein later used the material in his 1944 ballet Fancy Free. A few weeks after opening, Weil hosted a meeting in the Riobamba with other Broadway producers to plan out President Franklin D. Roosevelt's 61st birthday, happening at the Waldorft-Astoria hotel. The Riobamba also made history a few weeks after that, in March of 1943, when Frank Sinatra made his cabaret debut there. Linton Weil continued running the club for just under a year, until selling out his share in October of 1943. Another person associated with ownership of the club was infamous Kosher mobster Louis "Lepke" Buchalter. He was the head of the Murder Incorporated mafia contract killing organization and recieved the death penalty in 1944, the only American mobster to do so. Unforunately, the Riobamba was shut down by the authorities in December of 1943, a year after it opened, due to failure to pay taxes. Linton Weil went on to sell camp as well in 1945. Later in life, he at points owned the Wingdale Diner, and a Magnesium Quarry in Dover. He also worked as a stockbroker for Bache and Co. until his death in 1971. Thank you to camp's pre-camp historian Max Silverstone for bringing this special tune and uniquely New York information to Radio Kol Ramah!

Parashat Chayyei Sarah [Genesis 23:1-25:18] begins with the death of Sarah at the age of 127 [and Rashi's curious comment about how she was as sinless at 100 as she was at 20, as sinless at 20 as she was at 7], and concludes with the death of Abraham, followed by the genealogy of Ishmael and Ishmael's death. The longest chapter of Genesis, 24 [67 verses], features the story of Avraham's servant securing Rebecca as a wife for Isaac. There is a lot to talk about! Questions and comments are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com.

Max Silverstone, cantorial student at the H.L. Miller Cantorial School - JTS and member of the music staff Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, shares his research on the history of our camp in Wingdale, NY. He has unearthed wonderful musical recordings from the earliest years of Camp Ramah as well as its predecessor on the site, Camp Kee-Wah. From 1934 to 1963, Camp Kee-Wah operated on the property that we know as Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. It was split as Camp Kee-Wah-We for Boys (today's A-Side) and Kee-Wah-Ke for Girls (today's B side Boys Kikar from 1934-1951, and all of B-side from 1952-1963). In 1961, the camp created a vinyl record. Side two consists of the cheers of the girls’ junior camp (first 4 tracks) and camp wide Kee-Wah spirit songs (the last 5 tracks) Max visited with Mitch Mernick for this special presentation of Kol Ramah BaBayit! We have featured tracks from these two albums on this podcast. The complete albums can be found at https://kolramah.us/ and www.soundcloud.com/kolramahberkshires. Featured tracks: An evening in Wingdale – 1965. Camp Ramah in the Berkshires Velvel Finkelstein, David Tilman, Aviva Kligfeld Recorded by Ken Tarlow Asis Eskol Ride the Chariot Netsach Yisrael Chorale Hassidic Service Kee-Wah Camps in the Berkshires Directors: Isidore L Mones, Adolph Geiger Alma Mater Recording Company, Riverdale 63, New York Sioux Tribe Dash Wah Farewell Wah Alma Mater

The latest edition of Parashah Talk, for Parashat Va-yera [Genesis 18:1-22:24] is now available. We ignored chapters 21 [birth of Isaac and banishment of Ishmael] and 22 [binding of Isaac and birth of Rebeccah], most recently read on Rosh Hashanah, a mere 7 weeks ago, and focused on chapter 19, Abraham's famous conversation with God over the fate of Sodom and Gomorrah and the curious behavior of Lot, Abraham's nephew, who, shall we say, repeatedly takes the low road, when given a choice. Comments are welcome at parshatalk@gmail.com. Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler. Enjoy!

It came advertised as the best conversation on this week's parsha, and who am I to argue? Lekh L'khah [Genesis 12:1-17:27] covers a lot of ground: the call of Abraham [12:1-6], the Covenant of the Pieces [ch. 15], the Covenant of Circumcision [ch. 17], the War of the Kings [ch. 14], and the story of Hagar and birth of Ishmael [ch. 16]. Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky, and I, Rabbi Barry Chesler did not cover so much ground of the parsha, almost the entire conversation was on the opening verses. Still, we talked for a half hour and more, and had fun! We hope you will, too!

Parashat Noach [Genesis 6:9-11:32] always brings back a flood of memories! Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky, together with yours truly, Rabbi Barry Chesler, discuss the claims to Noah's greatness, the command to leave the Ark when the water subsides, and the disturbing incident of Noah's drunkenness. We find a little time to touch upon the Family of Nations [chapter 10] and the Tower of Babel [first part of chapter 11]. Our conversation has to end at some point, so we did not quite make it to the end of the parashah. Just as last week's parashah concludes with mention of Noah in preparation for this week, so too this week's parashah concludes with mention of Avram [later renamed Avraham] in preparation for next week's. Perhaps this is where we will begin next week. We now have an e-mail address, so feel free to send comments, questions, and criticisms [gentle, of course!] to: parshatalk@gmail.com.

We begin again on Parashah Talk as the annual cycle of weekly Torah readings starts over this Shabbat with Parashat Bereshit [Genesis 1:1-6:8]. What would a discussion about Genesis be without talking at least a little about Creation? We also talk about the Garden of Eden, Cain and Abel, and the arc of the entire reading [we saved the ark for next week!]. As always, I, Rabbi Barry Chesler am in conversation with Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. What is new this week, in addition to the Torah reading, is a brand new e-mail address, to which you can send questions you would like us to consider, comments, and criticisms [though the technical term is gentle suggestions!]: parshatalk@gmail.com. Shabbat Shalom!

With the celebration of Simchat Torah this Sunday, the annual cycle of Torah Reading comes to an end with the concluding chapters of Deuteronomy [33 and 34] and immediately begins again with the opening chapter of Genesis [plus the first three verses of chapter 2]. So this week, my colleagues Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky and I rabbi Barry Chesler discuss the meaning of Simchat Torah as well as Sh'mini Atzeret, observed this Saturday. There is never enough time to get to everything on our agenda, but we cover enough, I trust, to keep it interesting! Shabbat Shalom, Chag Same'ach, and a great weekend to one and all!!

This week is a special edition of Parashah Talk, featuring discussion about the holiday of Sukkot, the symbolism of the sukkah and the arba'ah minim [the four species, based on Leviticus 23:40], and the significance of the Book of Ecclesiastes [Qohelet in Hebrew], for this time of year. As always great thanks to, Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler!

Asis Eshkol by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

Chorale by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

Papir Iz Doch Vyse by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

Shimu by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

In 1965 at the very beginnings of Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, Musicologist Velvel Pasternak, David Tilman and Aviva Kligfeld (Rosenbloom) produced and recorded this vinyl at the brand new Camp Ramah in the Berksires. Tilman and Kligfeld went on to careers as cantors. Thanks to Max Silverstone JTS Cantorial School Class of 2024 for bringing this to Radio Kol Ramah!

The parashah is Ha'azinu, Deuteronomy 32. This Shabbat is also known as Shabbat Shuvah, the Shabbat of Return, after the 1st word of the haftarah, Hosea 14:2. The close connection between the word shuvah and t'shuvah [commonly translated as repentance] has been explored in biblical interpretation and Jewish theology for hundreds of years! We discuss some verses from the weekly Torah reading, some verses from the haftarah [Hosea 14:2-10, Micah 7:18-20, Joel 2:15-27] talk about Moses near the end of his life, and touch upon some other issues, all in a half an hour or so! With best wishes for a Shabbat Shalom and G'mar Chatimah Tovah, a good seal in the Book of Life on Yom Kippur!

As 5780 winds to a close and we begin to usher in 5781, I wanted to express my gratitude to my chaveirim, Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. For the last 6 months we have met once a week on Zoom to reprise our camp radio show Parashah Talk. For me personally, the opportunity to connect to my good buddies in the non-camp season has been one of the decided pluses of covid19. While I often study Torah alone, Torah study is actually a team sport, and I am thankful that I am part of a team that continues to meet and talk Torah. I hope this augurs well for the coming year! To all who observe, please accept my wishes for a Shabbat Shalom and a Shanah Tovah U-m'tukah, a good and sweet year. To everyone else, a great weekend! Rabbi Barry Chesler

This week is a double parashah, Nitzavim/Va-yelekh [Deuteronomy 29:9-31:30], but we didn't quite make it into Va-yelekh! We spent a fair amount of time on the opening verses of Nitzavim [29:9-14], especially verse 14, in considering who the people who were not standing with the Israelites on the east side of the Jordan were. We touched upon the classic verse Lo bashamayim hee [30:12] with nary a mention of the famous story about the Oven of Akhnai, which may be a first for us, or for rabbis anywhere!. And, we concluded with remarks about Rabbi Eliot Malomet's favorite verse in the Torah [30:19], where the Israelites have set before them the blessing and the curse, and are instructed to choose life, Together with Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Rabbi Barry Chesler this is this week's Parashah Talk. Give a listen!

Parashah Talk for Ki Tavo [Deuteronomy 26:1-29:8], featuring Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler in conversation about the weekly Torah reading, is now available. Give a listen as they discuss the range of meaning in the ritual of the first fruits [26:1-11], connecting it with God's promise to the Israelites in Exodus 6:6-8 and the cups of wine at the seder. We explore the nexus between storytelling and redemption and provide commentary on some verses of particular importance to us. Finally, we touch upon the blessings and the curses, and compare them to their appearance in Leviticus [chapter 26], attempting to wrest meaning for modern day Jews.

Parashat Ki Tetze [Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19] is known for its mitzvah density. 74 of the 613 commandments the rabbis located in the Torah [12%, for the mathematically inclined] are found in these few chapters. There are laws for all occasions. Give a listen as Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofky and Barry Chesler discuss some of them. Among those discussed are the ben sorer u-moreh (the stubborn and rebellious son) [21:18-21], levirate marriage [25:5-10], and the command to destroy Amalek [25:17-19]. Shabbat Shalom!

Our great show! The audio edition. Lots going on in the Parasha Talk this week for Parashat Shoftim. Join Rabbi Eliot Malomet, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky, and Rabbi Barry Chesler for an amazing talk. Dedicated to Yaakov Malomet and Gabi Wachs who are getting married this Sunday! Mazel Tov!

The latest edition of Parashah Talk, for Re'eh [Deuteronomy 11:26-16:17] is now available! Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky join Rabbi Barry Chesler in lively conversation about the choice between a blessing and a curse, the meaning of the metaphor of us as God's children. the Deuteronomic addition to the laws of the sabbatical year and how it might effect public policy, and the holiday calendar. Give a listen!

Here is Parasha Talk Ekev, with our good friends, Rabbi Eliot Malomet, Rabbi Barry Chesler and Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky. There's lots to talk about: the land of Israel, our relationship with God, and what does God really want from us. Enjoy and Shabbat Shalom!

A special edition of Parashah Talk on Tisha B'av, in which we discuss some aspects of Tisha B'Av, Parashat Va-etchanan, and Shabbat Nachamu. Give a listen!

The boys are back! Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky and and I Barry Chesler, have taken our show on the road, as it were. A longstanding highlight of the camp week, Parashah Talk, now is available on Facebook and on Kol Ramah, 102.3 FM on your FM dial [when camp is in session and you are in the vicinity of Wingdale, NY] and on the World Wide Web at Kolramah.us. This week we begin reading the 5th and final book of the Torah, Sefer D'varim, the Book of Deuteronomy. We spend some time talking about the setting and significance of the book as well as discuss the upcoming fast day of Tisha B'Av [the 9th of the Hebrew month Av, observed Wednesday evening and Thursday, July 29-30], which has become a national day of mourning for the Jewish People. The other name for Sefer Devarim in Hebrew is Mishneh Torah, often translated as 2nd Torah, since Deuteronomy recapitulates a number of laws and events from Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, in addition to providing fresh material. When Rambam [Moses Maimonides, 1138-1204] wrote his distillation of the Oral Law, he called it Mishneh Torah, since the Oral Law was the 2nd Law revealed at Mt. Sinai, together with the Written Law, the 5 Books of Moses. We might understand Sefer Devarim as a kind of Oral Torah to the Written Torah of the first four books. This is but one reason why I think it is hard not to love the book! Happy viewing!

It's Shabbat, so it must be another edition of Parashah Talk. This week, Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky, and Barry Chesler discuss the concluding chapters of the Book of Numbers, the double portion of Mattot-Massei. We circle back to Pinchas, consider the power of words when making oaths, the cities of refuge, and more. At the end, each rabbi attempts to sum up the book so that we may properly begin Devarim [Deuteronomy] next week. Give a listen!

Please enjoy this special project of Radio Kol Ramah "Babayit" - Home edition, kayitz 2020. We may all be socially distant but that did not stop our radio class from taking a tour of our favorite places at home, culminating in a virtual visit to our radio station in Wingdale! Featuring Lior Austrian –Jacobs Dave Waldman Jolie Weinberg Netanel Salzberg Eden Produced by David Goodman with Mitch Mernick Edited by Yaniv Morozovsky Song Playlist: אברהם טל - שבוע טוב סטטיק ובן אל תבורי - נמסטה ליאור נרקיס עומר אדם ומשה פרץ - שירו של שפשף שלומי שבת ואליעד - מורידים את הירח עדן בן-זקן ועומר אדם - קוקוריקו חנן בן ארי - אם תרצי ישי ריבו - הלב שלי מחנה רמה בבירקשירס - טוב לי במחנה רמה

This week's socially distanced edition of Parashah Talk is here! Come listen as Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler discuss Parashat Pinhas.

Enjoy a great Parsha Talk about the Red Heifer, the death of Miriam, the miraculous well, the perils and challenges of leadership, the death of Aaron, Balak the proto-anti-Semite, blessings and curses, looking at Israel as an outsider and so much more. We miss being with each other in person, but we are making up for it on Zoom with great Zoom-Torah. Once again great thanks to Rabbi Eliot Malomet for hosting a great conversation Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Rabbi Barry Chesler, both of whom managed to be elsewhere for this Shabbat. Shabbat Shalom!

Another edition of Parashah Talk with Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmanofsky. We concentrated on the figure of Korach; see if we said anything as revolutionary as Korach himself!

Things get really charged in the Parashah Talk this week - we debate whether the whole debacle of the spies was a failure of leadership or if Moses, Joshua, and Caleb were just doing the best that they could. We briefly cover the wood gatherer and the mitzvah of tzitzit. Give a watch or a listen. One of the bright spots of the whole covid-confinement is having a hevruta with our great friends, Rabbi Eliot Malomet, Rabbi Barry Chesler and Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky. Thanks Rabbis! Shabbat Shalom!.....And a special Mazel tov to Rabbi and Cantor Chesler on their wedding anniversary!!!

This week's edition of Parashah Talk on Parashat B'ha'alot'kha features Rabbis Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky, together with yours truly, Rabbi Eliot Malomet, in conversation about the curious phenomenon of the inverted nuns bracketing two verses which appear in the Torah service [one when we take the Torah out and one when we return it to the Ark], and the character of Moses as a leader, among other topics. Dare I say it is one of our best; certainly one of the most fun to do!

Parsha Talk - Nasso by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

The Matan Torah Edition of Parasha Talk. We go deep in this conversation, asking what revelation is, what is the experience of Torah study about, and what are our favorite things to study. Join me and my great friends, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Rabbi Barry Chesler, and Hag Sameah!

We are dedicating our Parasha Talk this week to Camp Ramah in the Berkshires Gesher 2020. We are so brokenhearted for you this week, after the official announcement that Kayitz 2020 will not be happening. We hoped, but deep down we knew that this was what had to be. Only comfort to you and your families. This is a big loss. The three oldest rabbis who probably taught you more than once as you were coming up through the Edot, are sending you our love and blessings. Cherish your memories, nourish your hopes and dreams. You'll be back, and so will Ramah. Stronger than ever. So we take some time this week to discuss the themes of the midbar, the wilderness, the first Jewish camp, the camp of the Children of Israel in the desert, the Levites and so much more. Have a listen. Shabbat Shalom!

Another great installment of Parasha Talk. Listen to Rabbi Eliot Malomet with Rabbi Barry Chesler and Rabbi Jeremy Kalmonofsky discuss some of the great themes of this week's parasha: the sabbatical year, the cycles of time, the stages of poverty, exploitation, and our responsibilities in keeping the covenant. Learn the secret behind the sweetness of the cherry tomato! Some of the best Torah conversation you will find anywhere!! Take a listen.

It's finally time for makhelah - our staff/camper choir that sings every Friday night at Camp during Kabbalat Shabbat! We hope this fills your home with joy as you head into Shabbat. Todah rabah (thank you) to everyone who participated in making this beautiful video, and to Miriam Hertzson (Rosh Hofa'ah - Performing Arts) for coordinating this project.

The best parasha discussion originally created in Dutchess County New York is back this week with a new edition on Parashat Emor. Take some time to listen to me, Rabbi Eliot Malomet, and my good friends Rabbis Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Barry Chesler. This awesome threesome of Ramah Rabbis, delve into the subjects of the holiness of the Kohen, disability, humane-ness with regard to animal slaughter, holiness as closeness to God, and blasphemy. What was that blasphemer so angry about? If you need some fresh Torah in your life, take a listen. Shabbat Shalom!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Jeremy Kalmonofsky and Barry Chesler bring us Parsha Talk - Home edition. Kol Ramah's longest running continuous podcast!

Listen to a wonderful conversation about this period on the Jewish calendar, beginning with Yom Hashoa (Holocaust Remembrance Day), and culminating next week with Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha'atzmaut (Israel's Day of Remembrance and Israel Independence Day) what some people now refer to as ASERET YEMEI HODA'A - Ten Days of Gratitude. With our wonderful friends and Parasha Talk Hevruta partners Rabbi Eliot Malomet, Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Rabbi Barry Chesler.

David Goodman with some thoughts and music for Passover. The last day of Passover teaches us how freedom is not always a question of choice.

We all missed our תפילות this Passover. Doing it at our home is not like doing it with the community - and of course nothing like תפילה at camp. Amirit Rosen (Farm 2019) leading us in the Prayer of Dew - תפילת הטל - from Passover Musaf. מועדים לשמחה

Would you like a refresher for the seder you are hosing on Zoom? Visit Kolramah.us and come hear Cantor Carol Chesler from Temple Beth Torah in Westbury! Download Cantor Chesler's musical seder companion at http://templebethtorahli.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/songs001.pdf

Our wonderful friend Cantor Carol Chesler presents Songs of Hope and Healing. This special program is complements of Temple Beth Torah and we appreciate the opportunity to share it with you on Radio Kol Ramah. The companion song sheet can be found at http://templebethtorahli.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/songsofhope.pdf

Thank you Cantor Chesler and Temple Beth Torah for this wonderful rendition of Mesheberach. We are all in need of healing and refuah shlemah now more than ever.

Beautiful piano rendition of Yedid Nefesh to bring us into שבת הגדול Shabbat Hagadol.

Thoughts about Passover in time of Corona. The role of the מצה (Matza) guide us to commemorate the state of poorness and dependency. The מצה celebrates the unpreparedness of the Israelite - No one can be fully prepared for such a major change.

Kol Ramah's resident Rabbis, Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmonofsky, bring us a Kol Ramah first - a wonderful discussion of the Pesach seder. How will this seder be different than all other seders? Chag Sameach!

Rabbis Eliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmonofskt bring us Parsha Talk - Direct from the "epicenter" (this mp3 is certified germ free 👌). Video can be found at https://zoom.us/rec/share/6u1XE737zV9JZonSxx_ZUZwaFLu9X6a8hnIeq_AJyE1FdMff4DPWqAynz3fZqy4j

No reason to be alone this Shabbat -Kol Ramah brings our favorite Rabbis, Elliot Malomet, Barry Chesler and Jeremy Kalmonofsky right into your home; all without violation any health department regs!

Part 2 of our Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "The Resistance fights to take back the city and save The Dreamlands from the demons, all the while an even greater threat is looming..."

Part 2 of our Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "The Resistance fights to take back the city and save The Dreamlands from the demons, all the while an even greater threat is looming..."

Part 2 of our Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "The Resistance fights to take back the city and save The Dreamlands from the demons, all the while an even greater threat is looming..."

Part 2 of our Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "The Resistance fights to take back the city and save The Dreamlands from the demons, all the while an even greater threat is looming..."

On the final night of camp, the mishlachat came in for an ultimate nightly broadcast (airing when our family and friends in Israel are just waking up). Featuring Omri, Sivan, Lior, Liron, Daniella, Vlada, Alice, Benaya, Yotam, Joey, Ron and of course Ro'i and David.

Join Arie and Ro'i for a show exploring the history and legacy of Kaveret (כוורת), one of the most iconic Israeli bands of all time.

Join Arie and Ro'i for a show exploring the history and legacy of Kaveret (כוורת), one of the most iconic Israeli bands of all time.

Eitan, Samson, Ro'i and Professor Isaac have a surprising discussion about camp etiquette and about various shocking conspiracies. Everything from salads to aliens is discussed in this episode of "The Salad Bar"

Voice for the Voiceless is a podcast produced campers from Bogrim (going to 9th grade). In the podcast, which take place as part of the Jewish studies in camp Ramah in the Berkshires, the campers learn and raise awareness for different 'Voiceless' groups and individuals. The story of the exodus, the redemption from slavery, is an essential story of the Jewish heritage. This is not only an historic story, but a commandment for us, as Jews, to open our eyes for those who suffer oppression. The different episodes of Voice for the Voiceless deals with issues from our surrounding and reach out for those who struggle to express the oppression they are going through.

The story of Jewish life in Africa is yet to be told. Here it camp Ramah in the Berkshires we have the honor and the opportunity to get to know people from those unique communities. This episode tells the story of the Jewish Ethiopian community back in Ethiopia and today in the state of Israel. Yemmy tells the story of herself coming to Israel in age 5, and of her family and community.

David Goodman in an interview with Josh Erlich the Conductor of CRB Choir and the composer of some of the musical pieces.

CRB choir with the piece Ish Ki Idor from Parashat Matot.

CRB choir with the piece Mah Tovo from Parashat Balak.

CRB choir with the piece U Mah Haaretz from Parashat Shlah.

עמרי שחר, רועי בנדל ודוד גודמן בהשמעת בכורה לאלבום 'שירי מרפסת' ברדיו קול רמה. הצמד רועי כפרי וטל טירנגל המוכרים כבר זמן רב, לאחר שנים רבות של מערכונים, פרסומות ומה לא - עכשיו יצא אלבום בכורה. באנו לתת לו כבוד.

Special family stories with the girls of bunk A8.

Voice for the Voiceless is a podcast produced by campers from Bogrim (going to 9th grade). In the podcast, which take place as part of the Jewish studies in camp Ramah in the Berkshires, the campers learn and raise awareness for different 'Voiceless' groups and individuals. The story of the exodus, the redemption from slavery, is an essential story of the Jewish heritage. This is not only an historic story, but a commandment for us, as Jews, to open our eyes for those who suffer oppression. The different episodes of Voice for the Voiceless deals with issues from our surrounding and reach out for those who struggle to express the oppression they are going through. Release date: 13 August 2019

The story of Jewish life in Africa is yet to be told. Here it camp Ramah in the Berkshires we have the honor and the opportunity to get to know people from those unique communities. This episode tells the story of the Jewish community in Zimbabwe, the Ashcenazic, the Spharadic and the Lemba tribe. Simcha Butchart shares her own story of coming into Judaism and tells about her home land.

A major debate in the Bogrim Show between New York and New Jersey. Join Dani McGuire, Dani Abramovitz, Zack Atlas, Ro'i Bandel and David Goodman for a tale of two towns.

Voice for the Voiceless is a podcast produced campers from Bogrim (going to 9th grade). In the podcast, which take place as part of the Jewish studies in camp Ramah in the Berkshires, the campers learn and raise awareness for different 'Voiceless' groups and individuals. The story of the exodus, the redemption from slavery, is an essential story of the Jewish heritage. This is not only an historic story, but a commandment for us, as Jews, to open our eyes for those who suffer oppression. The different episodes of Voice for the Voiceless deals with issues from our surrounding and reach out for those who struggle to express the oppression they are going through.

Rabbi David Goodman welcomes Rosh Chinuch Abby Ehrman to our podcast series on this kayitz theme- Building Community.

Amirit Rosen and David Goodman speaking about Tisha Beav in Jerusalem. About the destruction and about the special environment to commemorate it.

The story of Jewish life in Africa is yet to be told. Here it camp Ramah in the Berkshires we have the honor and the opportunity to get to know people from those unique communities. This episode will tell the story of the Igbo tribe in Nigeria. Moshe Hizkiyah from the Tikvat Israel community will guide us to this very special story.

Poetry, Gender, Torah. Sivan Rotholz Teitelman and David Goodman finding the hidden spots in the text.

Solelim special of Voice for the Voiceless. What is the value of responsibility and how its affect our jewish lives? Voice for the Voiceless is a podcast produced campers from Bogrim (going to 9th grade). In the podcast, which take place as part of the Jewish studies in camp Ramah in the Berkshires, the campers learn and raise awareness for different 'Voiceless' groups and individuals. The story of the exodus, the redemption from slavery, is an essential story of the Jewish heritage. This is not only an historic story, but a commandment for us, as Jews, to open our eyes for those who suffer oppression. The different episodes of Voice for the Voiceless deals with issues from our surrounding and reach out for those who struggle to express the oppression they are going through.

The story of Jewish life in Africa is yet to be told. Here it camp Ramah in the Berkshires we have the honor and the opportunity to get to know people from those unique communities. The first episode will focus on the abayudaya community in Uganda. Kigondre Samuel Matiya (Bucky) and Walema Elifazi Eria, both are member of the abayudaya community telling us their story. A David Goodman production.

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel. You are welcome to join Arie Platnik, Ron Wax, Ro'i Bandel and David Goodman for an hour of contemporary Israeli Rock.

Produced and hosted by Rabbi Barry Chesler, Jessica Fisher and Gabe Cohen Join Rabbi Chesler for our weekly Torah round table discussion.

This episode tell the story of poverty in the USA and in the world. Voice for the Voiceless is a podcast produced campers from Bogrim (going to 9th grade). In the podcast, which take place as part of the Jewish studies in camp Ramah in the Berkshires, the campers learn and raise awareness for different 'Voiceless' groups and individuals. The story of the exodus, the redemption from slavery, is an essential story of the Jewish heritage. This is not only an historic story, but a commandment for us, as Jews, to open our eyes for those who suffer oppression. The different episodes of Voice for the Voiceless deals with issues from our surrounding and reach out for those who struggle to express the oppression they are going through.

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel. You are welcome to join Arie Platnik and David Goodman for an hour of Israeli Rock from the 70's and 80's

A Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "When a simple mission to recover a magical orb goes awry, a party of adventurers find themselves stuck in a world made of dreams, and in the middle of a plot to take away magic forever."

A Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "When a simple mission to recover a magical orb goes awry, a party of adventurers find themselves stuck in a world made of dreams, and in the middle of a plot to take away magic forever."

A Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "When a simple mission to recover a magical orb goes awry, a party of adventurers find themselves stuck in a world made of dreams, and in the middle of a plot to take away magic forever."

A Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "When a simple mission to recover a magical orb goes awry, a party of adventurers find themselves stuck in a world made of dreams, and in the middle of a plot to take away magic forever."

A Dungeons & Dragons campaign with Shorashim campers, together with dungeon master Philip Kronenberg and radio host Ro'i Bandel. "When a simple mission to recover a magical orb goes awry, a party of adventurers find themselves stuck in a world made of dreams, and in the middle of a plot to take away magic forever."

Rabbi Ariel Burger stops by Radio Kol Ramah to introduce us to his new book "Witness: Lessons from Elie Weisel's classroom".

David Goodman and Alexander Eisen in a program about the hidden treasure - our community. One can forget how special is the Kehillah that we are in, but this community is what make us better people.

Solelim group with a special lion King preformance in Kol Ramah

Solelim group with a special Aladdin preformance in Kol Ramah

Rabbi Barry Chesler invites Rabbi Rob Scheinberg and Hope Levav into our studio in the Beit Midrash to explore this week's parasha.

The Cochavim girls of Bunk A9 do a fun radio show with songs, laughs, friendly debates and a marriage between an octopus and a 100 year old dolphin.

Alicia Bagley and David Goodman speaking about the culture and the challenges of the black community in the U.S. Join us for an hour that combines together bitter and sweet, problems and music.

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel. You are welcome to join Arie Platnik and David Goodman for an hour of Israeli Metal music.

LIVE concert by Josh Warshawsky and friends at Camp Ramah in the Berkshires. Josh Warshawsky inspires and engages Jews across generations through music and teaching. Josh spends his summers in residency teaching and sharing music and Tefillah at Ramah camps across the country including Ramah in Wisconsin, Ramah Nyack, Ramah in Northern California, Ramah California in Ojai, Ramah Poconos, and Ramah in the Berkshires. Josh Warshawsky has released three albums. Visit his website at https://joshwarshawsky.com

Hosted and produced by Rabbi Barry Chesler, Jessica Fisher and Gabe Cohen from The Jewish Theological Seminary join in a wonderful round table discussion of Pinchas - one of the most popular of camp parshiot!

Alexandra, Layla, Maddy, Sasha and Holland from Solelim interviewing the musician Benji Marx and speaking about his song Joshua: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEhM4kVhPoM

Interview with the artist Merav Ezer about how the challenges of immigration and their expression in art - in Hebrew. ריאיון עם האמנית מרב עזר על האתגרים שבהגירה ועל הביטוי האמנותי של אתגרים אלו.

Rabbi Scott Bolton and Rabbi Esther Reed with David Goodman speaking about community in a special program with many guests. The program discuss the values of love, kindness, hospitality and gratitude.

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel. Please join the Israeli Mishlachat for an hour of good music and fun :)

Julius Zimbler came by to the Kol Ramah studio with his guitar to play a live acoustic performance of Bohemian Rhapsody (by Queen)

Please enjoy listening to our reflections about building a holy community! Over the course of the episodes Rabbi Scott Bolton and David Goodman have explored how individuals consciously connect, what cultural rituals and encounters help cement love and respect and what sources from Jewish tradition inspire. In our third episode we talked about a list of values that could focal points for refining our lives. The Torah's hope that we would love our neighbors like ourselves anchors the discussion, and a Hasidic take on the verse in which that teaching appears helps us understand more about human nature. Pure pleasure to have you שומעים קהילה!

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel. You are welcome to join Aryeh Platnik and David Goodman for an hour of very stupid Israeli Rock.

Parsha Talk originators Rabbis Barry Chesler, Eliot Malomet and Jeremy Kalmanofsky re-unite for a truly memorable Parsha Talk - This is one episode you will not want to miss!

The best music dedicated to campers and staff from the Israel Mishlachat at camp.

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel. You are welcome to join Aryeh Platnik and David Goodman for an hour of Israeli Rock.

Here in the Berkshires it is the middle of the night, but our friends and family in Israel are just waking up. It is a good time to play some Israeli music and to tell the story of the evolution of Israeli music. And of course give lots of shoud-outs for the listeners in Israel.

Rabbi Mordecai Schwartz Director of the Beit Midrash and Assistant Professor of Talmud and Rabinics at JTS visits Radio Kol Ramah and tells Mitch Mernick about his newly published book "Rewriting the Talmud".

Your host Rabbi Barry Chesler welcomes Parsha Talk veteran Rabbi Jeremy Kalmanofsky and Rabbi Joel Levinson for an insightful and thought provoking round-table discussion of the weekly parsha!

אדון עולם by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

הריני 1 by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

מה גדלו by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

יה ריבון עולם by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

הנה מה טוב by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

פתחו לי שערי צדק by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

רד היום by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires

לעולם בעקבות השמש by Camp Ramah in the Berkshires