Wrestling and Dreaming: Engaging Discussions on Judaism

Episode 37: Opening the Door

Continuing with a series of episodes on the Pesach Seder, Rabbi Dobrusin explores the connection between the Haggadah's statement of welcome to guests and the tradition of opening the door for Elijah the prophet. How are these two related and what can each tradition teach us? 

Episode 36: We Were Slaves...

This is the first of a series of episodes discussing texts from the Haggadah and traditions of the Seder. In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin shares an alternative version of a familiar Haggadah text which can inspire us to wrestle with a critical aspect of the Seder experience. 

Episode 35: A Shabbat Kiss

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin discusses the story of the golden calf and its implications for a spiritual question many of us struggle with during this time of COVID. 

Episode 34: Purim 2021

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin shares an interpretation of a section of the book of Esther which contains a critical message. While it is an important part of every Purim celebration, it takes on added significance this year. 

Episode 33: Remember When...

Consider this question: what are some aspects of our lives which can elevate us spiritually and can encourage us to believe in our dreams and work the betterment of the world? In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin discusses one of those aspects of life and pays tribute to an individual whose work inspires him and so many others. 

Episode 32: The Question Stands

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin teaches a  legal text from the Talmud that has implications for our daily lives. The question this text raises is one which each of us struggles with and one which can inspire serious discussion in every household. 

Episode 31: In Our Hands

A favorite movie scene and a remarkable Torah commentary inspire Rabbi Dobrusin's d'var Torah on this week's Torah portion: Parashat Yitro.

Episode 30: Unity at Times of Crisis

The first verse of this week's Torah portion is the subject of this episode of Wrestling and Dreaming. Rabbi Dobrusin considers an alternative understanding of the Torah's description of the route of the Exodus and relates it to the concept of unity during difficult times. 

Episode 29: Recomittment and Re-creation

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin considers the relationship between two honored rituals. The connection can inspire us with hope and an appreciation for the importance of tradition at a time of transition. . 

Episode 28: Plagues

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin discusses a very difficult story in this week's torah portion which we must confront.