Set Apart

Whether online or in the streets, much has been said about the "Forbidden Chapter"... Isaiah 53, which is held to have been long banned from synagogues across the globe due to its overt Christological message. But is there any truth to this legend? The answer is "no," but it's also more complicated than it initially seems. In this episode we explore the claims of the Forbidden Chapter myth, the reasons as to why it's false, and the potential origins of this new, but quickly spreading, defamation.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.  

#ForbiddenChapter #prophecy #Isaiah53coverup

We all know that thanking Hashem is a good thing, but are there times when it's inappropriate? This week we discuss the concept of giving blessings in vain: how it happens, why it's a problem, and what we can do about it.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#berachahlevatalah #blessinginvain #brachot

The last episode of Set Apart to air on KEOS 89.1 FM. But not the end of the show, as it will now switch to a podcast format. Many thanks to all those who helped make the show a reality for Brazos Valley radio. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#SetApart #KEOS #goodbyefornow

Part ten of the Ten Commandments series. We're at the end of Aseret ha'Dibrot, but while the commandment not to covet is the last, it's certainly not the least. In fact, obsession and desire for the possessions of others can easily lead us down a path of breaking the other nine. In this episode we discuss the difference between healthy and toxic desire, as well as some tips for avoiding the latter.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #coveting #lotakhmod

This week we take a dive into the Dead Sea Scrolls, a treasure trove of knowledge from the ancient world. More specifically, we discuss the "Teacher of Righteousness," the mysterious leader of the desert Qumran sect that left us a wealth of information about Judaism in the final days of the Temple. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#DeadSeaScrolls #Qumran #TeacherofRighteousness

Calling people out online, in person, or in the press is all the rage these days. And why not? Doesn't the Torah tell us to rebuke our neighbor? This week we'll see what the Kitzur says about the proper way to call someone's attention to a misdeed, and whether or not we should bother doing it at all.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #calloutculture #judgement

Part nine of the Ten Commandments series. Everyone knows it's wrong to lie, but what role do lies play in a society where truth has been deemed subjective? Furthermore, is honesty always the best policy, or are there times where a lie is appropriate? This week we discuss the sometimes grey area of honesty, while also considering some ideas for sharing truth in a responsible way. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #truth #darcheishalom

Last week we looked at the character of Satan from the Jewish perspective, noting the ways in which it differs from the popular interpretation. But where did this popular interpretation come from? Is it something biblical, or does it come from another source? This week we'll discuss some of the various traditions of the ancient world that contributed to the Lucifer/fallen angel legend, and why these ideas—despite what is often claimed—are not backed up in Tanakh.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#satan #devil #lucifer

The Devil has been an object of fascination, fear, and scorn for thousands of years. In fact, almost every culture has some awareness of him based on Abrahamic tradition. But does Judaism share this popular view? Today we discuss the role of Satan in the Jewish tradition: who he is, what he can do, and—most importantly—WHY he exists. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#satan #devil #judaism

Part eight of the Ten Commandments series. The eighth commandment seems like one of the easiest to understand, but what if it doesn't mean what we think it does? Today we explore some of the rabbinic commentary surrounding the commandment not to steal, as well as look at what Torah has to say about different types of theft. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #lotignov #abduction

Regret isn't a sentiment that is popular in these times, and for good reason... it's uncomfortable! But as we move through the Ten Days of Repentance, it is inevitable that we will encounter this difficult, yet ultimately helpful, emotion. In this episode we will explore some of the complicated feelings that accompany regret, as well as the process that ultimately leads to redemption. We also take some time to review tips for an easy Yom Kippur fast.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#AseretYemeiTeshuva #YomKippur #fasting

There's a lot of bad business advice going around, and unfortunately it's often all too easy to take it. Today we'll look at some halachic principles that should guide our business dealings, especially as it relates to fair pricing and treatment of employees. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#businessethics #torah #musar

Part seven of the Ten Commandments series. This week we cover one of the most heartbreaking, yet also one of the most important, sins prohibited by the Torah: adultery. We'll discuss why the marriage vow is so important both to G-d and man, and provide some important tips for avoiding this transgression. Also, Tyler shares his impression of the Panamanian Jewish community. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #adultery #lotinaf

Humor is truly one of the spices of life, and it is more than well represented throughout the entirety of Jewish history. But just as one can make a bad joke, a jocular personality can also go too far. This week we'll take a look at what the Kitzur says regarding a balanced sense of humor, as well as receive some wisdom about other areas of life. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #socialmedia #humor

The Lost Tribes of Israel is one of the most fascinating of all Jewish legends, drawing interest and debate from nearly every corner of the globe. In this episode we will do a crash course on the history and mythology behind the legend, as well as discuss the possible whereabout of these tribes today. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#losttribesofisrael #BetaIsrael #IsraelandJudah

Almost everyone is familiar with the "Vulcan salute," a symbol made popular by the character Spock on Star Trek. Many fans also know that this salutation has its roots in an ancient Jewish rite. Today we discuss the details of the Priestly Blessing, one of the oldest continuously practiced rituals in Jewish history.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#startrek #priestlybenediction #duchanning

Today we cover the controversial and complex topic of shituf, a possible exception for Non-Jews in the realm of monotheistic belief. Delving into the details and qualifications of such a concept is a regular swamp of opinions, disagreements, and questions, but we'll do our best to navigate it and hopefully learn a little more about religious tolerance and the conditions under which it is encouraged.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#noahide #avodahzarah #monotheism

Part six of the Ten Commandments series. The commandment not to murder is perhaps the single one with which the vast majority of us will never struggle. It is also, for all practical purposes, the easiest one to keep. Nevertheless, we will look at some of the details surrounding this commandment, paying special attention to the circumstances in which killing is not considered murder. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #death #lotirzach

Undercover missionaries are at it again, this time infiltrating the Haredi community deep in the heart of Israel. This week we'll discuss the scandal regarding Michael Elk (Elkohen), the missionary who has posed as an Orthodox rabbi in Israel for the past 15 years. In addition, we will consider steps that can be taken, especially by friends of the Jewish people, to ensure a more open and honest relationship between the Church and Israel. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#israelmissionaries #michaelelk #fakerabbi

This week we discuss the tragic incident that took place on Mount Meron for Lag BaOmer last Friday, and take a moment for those who lost their lives while celebrating this lesser-known Jewish holiday. We also look at some wisdom from Pirkei Avot regarding the relationship between students and teachers, especially from the student's perspective. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#LagBaOmer #education #judaism

Judaism is known as a religion of action, but what is there to say about faith? This week we take a look at the role of belief in modern Judaism, guided by Maimonides' 13 Principles of Faith. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#faith #rambam #judaism

Today we discuss a famous passage in Pirkei Avot about the importance of studying Torah in combination with a worldly trade. Also Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#PirkeiAvot #torahstudy #work

Part five of the Ten Commandments series. On its surface, the fifth commandment (to honor one's father and mother) seems exceptionally vague. Not to mention, what is one to do if the actions of our parents are not worthy of honor? This week we'll get to the bottom of what Torah says we should do to honor our parents, and explore some ideas of how to pay tribute to those parents who do not live up to their responsibilities. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #honoringparents #judaism

As the Pesach season is upon us, we pause to reflect on some of the meanings behind the holiday. This week we discuss the often mentioned, yet little understood, concept of the Passover lamb. Why was a lamb's blood commanded to be put upon the Hebrews' doorways? What is the purpose of the Passover sacrifice? Why do we not continue to offer one today? The answers may be a little deeper than you think, and shed greater light on the details of one of Judaism's holiest festivals. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#Pesach #passoverlamb #Mitzrayim

We've all heard that we shouldn't care what others think of us, and most of the time that's good advice. So when it comes to Jewish law, we shouldn't worry about being righteous in the eyes of men, right? All that matters is that we do what is right in the eyes of Hashem... or maybe not. In this episode we'll take a look at the concept of Marit Ayin ("what appears to the eye") and what the Kitzur has to say about others' perception of our halachic observance.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #marisayin #appearanceofsin

Today we conclude our discussion of the role of anxiety in modern life. Last time we discussed some of the reasons for the anxiety epidemic, but in this episode we talk about the role that faith plays in creating restlessness, as well as discuss some ways to move past perpetual nervousness and into a more secure and healthy life.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#anxiety #fear #comfort

While everyone feels a little nervous once in a while, anxiety has become nothing short of an epidemic in the U.S., especially amongst teenagers and young adults. In the first of this two-part episode we'll discuss the problem at hand as well as some of the potential reasons for this phenomenon. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#anxiety #fear #media

In a belated Valentine's Day episode, we discuss the love life of Rabbi Akiva ben Yosef, Chief of the Sages. He and his wife, Rachel, dealt with most unusual events throughout their marriage, but nevertheless rose to become one of Judaism's most admired couples. We'll see what their story can teach us about life, love, and Torah. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#AkivaandRachel #romance #love

This week we say goodbye to Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski, who passed away on January 31. In addition to being a great Hasidic rabbi, Dr. Twerski was a noted psychiatrist who wrote much about addiction and self-esteem, especially within a Judaic framework. In this episode we remember the accomplishments of his life, as well as his devotion to helping some of society's most vulnerable members. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#AbrahamTwersky #psychiatry #avelut

Part four of the Ten Commandments series. The fourth commandment actually contains two instructions: REMEMBER the Sabbath, and KEEP it sacred. In this episode we'll break down what it means to do both, as well as talk about why it is important that we make time to rest, both for Hashem as well as for ourselves. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #shabbat #judaism

Many of us may be used to watching what we say, but it's easy to forget that sometimes it's better to say nothing at all. In this episode we look at what the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch has to say about when it is a good time to speak, and when it is better to just keep our mouths shut. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #gossip #ideltalk

The storming of the U.S. Capitol last week was a shock to the entire nation... but perhaps it should not have been. This week we discuss some of the attitudes and institutes of Judean society leading up to the Roman Siege of Jerusalem and the fall of the Second Temple, along with what we can learn from the mistakes of the past.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#capitolstorming #secondtemple #baselesshatred

It seems like the term "tikkun olam" has been on a lot of people's lips lately: some people love it, some are sick to death of it, and many don't even know what it means. In this episode we take a look at the history of the term, how its meaning has evolved over time, and the current controversy surrounding its sudden popularity. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#tikkunolam #socialjustice #tzedakah

This week we remember Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, whom we lost on November 7. While he was a great teacher, thinker, and scholar, he will perhaps best be remembered for his upstanding character and devotion to interfaith relations. In this episode we explore some of the details of his life, as well as the importance of the example he set for all of us going forward. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#JonathanSacks #britishjudaism #avelut

Tensions are running high as people try to do things that once seemed routine, like read the news, elect presidents, or even just talk to each other. We'll see what the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch has to say about anger as a character trait, and talk about some ways to break the hold that rage addiction has on our own lives. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #anger #socialmedia

We wrap up our month-long exploration of "spooky" Jewish folklore with a discussion of the dybbuk: a ghostly remnant of the departed that attaches itself to the living. In addition, we talk about the role that folklore has played in history, and the important impact it can have on our culture even today. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#dybbuk #jewishfolklore #ghost

The month-long series on "spooky" Jewish folklore continues. This week we discuss some interesting theories on werewolves in the Torah while also reading some famous Yiddish tales regarding lycanthropes. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#werewolf #jewishfolklore #MayseBukh

We continue our month-long series on "spooky" folklore by discussing vampires and other bloodsuckers in the Jewish tradition. Who are they? Where did they come from? Are they even real, or just superstitious influence from other nations? We explore all of these questions in this week's episode. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#vampire #jewishfolklore #estrie

We kick off the month of October with the story of the Witch of Endor, Shaul's last mistake that has troubling implications regarding the occult and the afterlife. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#witchcraft #occult #necromancy

Change can be difficult... especially when it's for the better. In the spirit of the new year, we discuss some ways to make changes a little easier, and look at a few examples for inspiration. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#RoshHashanah #change #newyear

We all screw up from time to time... it's part of being human. But sometimes we make mistakes that are so obvious and so dumb that we have nothing to ask ourselves other than, "What on earth was I thinking?" In this episode we discuss momentary lapses in judgement that leave us feeling like fools, and take some pointers from one of the great biblical stories of bad decision making: David and Bathsheba.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#teshuva #regret #DavidandBathsheba

In this episode we talk about ways to prepare our body for the Yom Kippur fast, as well as the importance of having an easy fast. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#YomKippur #fasting #tzomkal

This week we remember Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz and the gifts he gave to the Jewish people, as well as to the world, through his expert scholarship, compassion for people, and devotion to Jewish education.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#AdinSteinsaltz #steinsaltztalmud #avelut

In the last episode we discussed the serpent in the Garden of Eden: its possible identity, motivations, and methods for deception. In part two we continue to explore this enigmatic figure by looking at the consequences of its actions (both for man as well as for beast), its moral and psychological framework, and what lessons we can take away from the world's most famous origin story.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#serpent #GardenofEden #judaism

Almost everyone is familiar with the story of the Garden of Eden, but there is far more drama and sensation to the tale than most realize. Central to this story is the figure of the serpent: a jilted, seductive, and perhaps even tragically misunderstood figure. In part one of this episode, we investigate the personality and motivation behind history's most notorious ophidian.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#serpent #GardenofEden #judaism

If there's one thing the age of mass communication has given us, it's the ability to make sure our voices are heard. But with this incredible gift we have also lost an important skill: the ability (or perhaps the willingness) to effectively listen. Today we will see what the Book of Proverbs has to say on the subject and discuss the difference between simply listening and truly hearing. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#listening #proverbs #shalom

When going through times like this it's easy to get caught up in what is going wrong, while forgetting everything that is going right. Today we listen to some words of wisdom about thankfulness from Rabbi Gutman Locks. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#thankfullness #appreciation #chokhmah

Part three of the Ten Commandments series. The third commandment (taking Hashem's Name in vain) is one of the most violated, yet also the one that carries the stiffest penalty. At the same time, it's also one of the vaguest as far as the text is concerned, leaving us wondering just how we're supposed to avoid this major infraction. We'll discuss just what it means to take Hashem's name in vain, how the concept has evolved over the centuries, and what to do if you find yourself doing it by accident (and you will). Also, Jewish News.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #blasphemy #nameinvain

Esau has a bad reputation in Judaism. But is it warranted? The scriptures seem to present a mixed view of Esau’s personality, so why is he so reviled in rabbinic literature? We’ll search for reasons in Tanakh, midrash, and history. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#Esau #edom #Jacob

The death of George Floyd has shocked and outraged the nation, leading to many discussions about race, justice, and authority in America. At the heart of the issue lies the question: What is a life really worth? Today we'll explore several passages in Tanakh that give us a clear idea of what each and every person means to Hashem, and what they should in turn mean to us.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#GeorgeFloyd #value #humanrights

Jacob's wrestling with a heavenly being at P'niel is a brief but well-known story of the Torah. In this episode we will see what various midrashim have to say about this figure's identity, and what the encounter meant for the future of Israel. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#Jacob #pniel #angels

Even the devout are not immune to the temptation of the grudge. Some have lasted generations, long after everyone has forgotten why they existed in the first place. But why are grudges so alluring? Do they even make sense? Is there ever a time to indulge one? We'll find out by exploring halacha and common sense. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #grudge #forgiveness

There’s a new television channel in Israel, and not everyone is happy about it. In this episode we’ll get to the bottom of the Shelanu TV controversy, and why it stands to threaten Christian-Jewish relations in the 21st Century.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#shelanutv #israelmissionaries #messianicjudaism

You've heard that Hashem visits the sins of the fathers upon the children up to the third and forth generations. It's in the Bible, after all... multiple times! But does He not also show kindness for thousands of generations? And is not each man accountable for his own sin? In this episode we'll try to make sense of these confusing and seemingly contradictory passages, while also thinking more carefully about the legacies we leave for our children.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#accountability #forgiveness #Ezekiel18

Part two of the Ten Commandments series. The second commandment seems easy: don't bow to idols, don't worship false gods. But strict monotheism isn't always as straightforward as it sounds, especially in a world that offers so many other options. In this episode we'll talk about the deeper meaning behind this commandment, as well as how to avoid becoming ensnared by idolatry. Also, Jewish News.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #idolatry #polytheism

There are few things more frustrating than falling down after a period of self improvement. Even more frustrating? Falling down again... and again and again. In this episode we discuss the emotional highs and lows of the holy life, and what we can reasonably expect of ourselves along the way.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#sin #regret #selfimprovement

Visiting the sick (Bikur Cholim) is a time-honored tradition (not to mention, a commandment) in Judaism. But in a time of virulent pandemic, how do we carry out this mitzvah without endangering ourselves and others? We'll review some of the basic rules of visiting those who are ill, and also look at how we can apply these practices in the face of COVID-19. Also, Jewish News.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#bikurcholim #illness #covid

As Coronavirus spreads throughout the earth, all of us have had to think a lot more about our own standards of personal hygiene. But, as usual, times like this were anticipated in the Torah. In this episode we explore some of the cleanliness practices that have kept the Jewish people alive and healthy throughout the ages, and look at how many of them mirror what the CDC is telling us to do today in order to avoid contracting COVID-19.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#cleanliness #covid #judaism

We all work hard to resist yetzer hara, but what about going the extra mile and abstaining from even those things which are permitted? Is asceticism a reasonable way to live? We'll see what the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch has to say about denying oneself pleasure in the absence of evil. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #abstinence #moderation

Today we begin the Ten Commandments series, where we will go through each of the Commandments in more detail. The first, "I am Hashem, your G-d, Who took you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage," doesn't seem like much of a commandment... rather, a statement. We'll examine what some of the great Jewish scholars have had to say about this commandment, and why it may be the most important of all. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.  

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#TenCommandments #Hashem #belief

Publicly shaming others has become something of a national pastime, especially in the name of the culture war. And why shouldn't we? After all, we're right and they're wrong... we're smart and they're dumb. Nothing wrong with putting a dumb person in their place, right? We'll take a look at some of the biblical and Talmudic perspectives on humiliating people and the consequences for doing so... both for others as well as for ourselves. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#shame #lashonhara #culturewar

Our friend Robert Hobbs from the Texas A&M Hillel joins us to discuss the Abayudaya community of Uganda and their journey to be accepted into the wider Jewish world. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#Abayudaya #Uganda  #africanjewry

In this episode we discuss the parsha Yitro (Jethro) and review the giving of the Ten Commandments. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#Yitro #Jethro #commandments

Serving Hashem doesn't always top our list of favorite activities. But even if we do it grudgingly, we still get points for it, right? Not so, according to Torah. In this episode we explore the commandment to serve Hashem with a joyful heart, and ways to make that happen even when it doesn't seem fun. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.   

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#service #joy #Hashem

"Everything has an appointed season, and there is a time for every matter under the heaven... a time to plant and a time to uproot that which is planted." Work is important. Rest is important. But knowing WHEN to work and WHEN to rest is the key to success. See what Mishlei has to say about the timing of our diligence. Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#discipline #proverbs #seasons

We all know that being humble is a good thing, but how much is too much? In this episode we discuss what the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch has to say about conceit and humility.  Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #conceit #humility

In the third and final part of our series on the Second Temple Period we explore the rather mysterious Essene sect. Actually, for such a mysterious group, we seem to know a lot about them... or do we? Come see for yourself whether the Essenes are legend, history, or perhaps a bit of both. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#essene #secondtemple #deadseascrolls

In part two of our series we discuss the Pharisees, the most important and perhaps the most misunderstood of the second temple sects. A favorite of the people and the only class to survive the fall of the temple in 70 CE, why have the Pharisees received such a bad rap? Were they really as bad as we're told? Listen in and judge for yourself! 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#pharisee #secondtemple #oraltorah

In part one of our series on the second temple Jewish sects we discuss the Sadducees, the priestly, aristocratic class that controlled the temple. Who were they? Where did they come from? What did they believe? Whatever happened to them? We explore the life and times of this controversial and often reviled sect of ancient Israel.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#sadducee #secondtemple #karaite

Ever wonder what Hanukkah is all about? What's the story? What's with the dreidels and latkes? Why can't I find any of this in the Bible? Or maybe you just feel like hearing the Hanukkah story again? In this episode we answer all (or at least most) of your most pressing questions about one of Judaism's most well known holidays.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#hanukkah  #maccabees  #festivaloflights

In the Thanksgiving episode we discuss the gratefulness of Leah, daughter of Laban and wife of Jacob, who appreciated her role in the life of Israel even though it was not always ideal. Also Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#thanksgiving #Leah #gratitude

Jewish News and History. Also, Tyler shares unsolicited thoughts about San Antonio and makes controversial statements regarding Mexican food.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#jewishnews #jewishhistory #sanantonio

A discussion of the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch's thoughts on the characteristics of men and following the "middle path." Also, Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History. 

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#KitzurShulchanAruch #morality #moderation

In this episode we discuss words from Mishlei about accepting discipline and respecting our elders. Also Jewish News and This Week in Jewish History.

Set Apart is a podcast covering issues related to religion and how we live as people of faith in the modern world, predominantly from a traditional Jewish perspective. Subscribe to get the latest updates. For more, visit the show's website at https://setapartradio.com/​​​​.

#discipline #proverbs #chokhmah