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
First-Language Judaism vs. Rule-Book Religion: My Conversation with Prof. Moshe Koppel
Rabbi Dr. Levi Brackman sits down with Prof. Moshe Koppel—mathematician, long-time Israeli resident, and author of Judaism Straight Up—to explore what it means to “speak” Judaism naturally instead of consulting a rule book at every turn.
Highlights include:
- Shimen vs. Heidi: two real people who illustrate organic tribal Judaism and cosmopolitan universalism
- Why thick social norms help communities last, and how thin “fairness-only” ethics can fall short
- The role of instinct, family memory, and everyday practice in shaping halakhic decision-making
- How concrete beliefs and abstract theology each serve different emotional and intellectual needs
- A brief look at DICTA, Koppel’s project that applies language-tech tools to classic Jewish texts
If you’re curious about living tradition, social cohesion, and the balance between rules and fluency, this conversation lays out the ideas clearly.
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.
