David and Scott have already decoded the deep symbolism of “darkness,” “water,” and “wind” in Genesis 1:2. But why was darkness – that is, G-d’s hiddenness – created before water, which symbolizes His presence? If G-d’s giving, kindness, and mercy are primary, why were they created after the darkness of apparent Divine absence?

As the Hebrew month of Elul begins, and Jews around the world begin preparations for the High Holidays, David and Scott discuss the nature of the Jewish prayer book, and assert that it represents the true catechism of Judaism.

David and Scott give a quick tour through the daily prayers to demonstrate that the liturgy of the Jewish people is also a primary guide to Jewish theology and belief.

In Selichot – the penitential prayers said by Jews to prepare for the new year – we ask G-d not to remove His holy spirit from “us.” What does that teach us about the reality of the holy spirit, and its manifestation in the community?

David and Scott investigate a liturgical verse, paraphrased from Psalm 51, which implies that the holy spirit is inherent in the People of Israel… but that its purpose is not for them, but for all the nations of the world.

As Jews prepare to celebrate the High Holidays, culminating in the Feast of Tabernacles, David and Scott discuss why celebrating in Israel is a unique experience – regardless of whether someone is Jewish or not. Can you visit Israel this year? If you can, consider this an invitation to the spiritual experience of a lifetime!