Wrestling and Dreaming: Engaging Discussions on Judaism

The reality of systemic racism in our country is an issue which must concern us deeply and motivate us to change. In this light, Rabbi Dobrusin answers a question he has often been asked about the statement "Black Lives Matter": Given our quest for true equality in this nation, does the statement itself conflict with a fundamental Jewish principle? 

Rabbi Dobrusin discusses one of the best known and most important verses in the Torah. How are we to understand: "Love your neighbor as yourself"? 

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin discusses a difficult Torah story and shares an unusual interpretation which has ramifications for contemporary issues. 

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin shares thoughts on Yom HaShoah: Holocaust Memorial Day from a very personal perspective. 

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin responds to an essay written by an Asian-American author about the current persecution faced by Asian Americans. How does the issue the author raises reflect our thoughts during the holiday of Pesach?

In this episode, Rabbi Dobrusin gives some final thoughts before Pesach. The discussion is based on one of the most beloved sections of the Seder: the 4 Questions. 

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? 

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. 

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. 

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.