Chukat 5784: The Paradox of the Red Heifer

The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies Podcast Network

Why does a ritual meant to purify others render the priest impure? In this week’s episode, join Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash and Dr. Daniel Reifman as they delve into the perplexing ritual of the red heifer, emphasizing the paradox where the act of purifying others renders the priest impure. They examines the distinctions between rational and irrational laws in Jewish tradition, exploring how these concepts have been understood and interpreted throughout history. Credits: Rabbanit Nechama Goldman Barash – Pardes Faculty Rabbi Zvi Hirschfield – Pardes Faculty and Host of Pardes from Jerusalem