Truths - Jewish Wisdom for Today
Hosted by Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman, "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today" is an insightful podcast exploring the confluence of religion, science, and philosophy.
The podcast serves as a platform for curious minds who value nuance and pursue wisdom. It is not designed for individuals seeking absolute truths or those inclined towards unquestioning religious adherence, but instead for those who traverse our rapidly evolving world as seekers and explorers.
With the mission to impart valuable insights rooted in Jewish perspective that resonate with contemporary times, "Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today" learns from distinguished guests, shares insights with listeners, and adapts with time and context. This podcast stands as a guiding light for those questing for wisdom and a nuanced understanding of spirituality amid the complexities of the modern world.
Truths - Jewish Wisdom for Today
Why Maimonides Falls Short and Psychedelics Matter - Rabbi Yuval Cherlow in Conversation
“In His Image: Why Maimonides Alone Isn’t Enough & Psychedelics Have Their Place — A Conversation with Rabbi Yuval Cherlow”
In this episode of Truths: Jewish Wisdom for Today, Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman sits down with the esteemed Rabbi Yuval Cherlow to ask: Can a purely intellectual theology—à la Maimonides—ever deliver the full depth of Jewish transcendence? And might there be a role, however careful and halakhically framed, for psychedelics in our modern quest for ecstasy?
Episode Highlights
1. Beyond Maimonides: The Limits of Pure Reason
Why the Rambam’s philosophic approach, while indispensable, must be complemented by embodied practices if we’re to move from head-knowledge to heart-awakening.
2. Divine Image & Moral Freedom
What “b’tzelem Elokim” really entails—our autonomy, accountability, and even our right to wrestle with God.
3. Sacred Experiments: Psychedelics & Ecstasy
Under what conditions, if any, might psychedelics serve as catalysts for genuine awe—and how do we weigh their dangers against their potential to unlock the soul?
4. Consciousness & the Soul
How our capacity to recognize another’s inner life—and to engage in honest dialogue with the Divine—marks us as God’s image-bearers.
5. From Theory to Practice
Why Jewish wisdom must first shape our everyday ethical choices before it can lift us into mystical heights—and how simple rituals (even a bit of wine) can open the door to ecstasy.
About Rabbi Yuval Cherlow
Rosh Yeshiva, Yeshivat Hesder Amit Orot Shaul, Tel Aviv
Director, Tzohar Center for Jewish Ethics; ethical advisor to Israel’s Ministry of Health
Co-founder, Tzohar (1995) — building bridges between religious and secular Israelis
Former IDF reserve company commander; alumnus of Yeshivat Har Etzion
Author of BeTzalmo (In His Image) and numerous responsa volumes on freedom, responsibility, and our divine spark
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Levi Brackman is a rabbi, Ph.D. in psychology, best-selling author of Jewish Wisdom for Business Success, and founder of Invown, a platform for real estate fundraising and investing.
