The Hidden Orchard Podcast

Abolishing the Torah

Often used as a proof-text for the abrogation of the Torah [commandments], in Matthew 5, Jesus cites a well-known Midrash to prove quite the opposite. Despite many modern (popular) interpretations, he forbids his audience from ever thinking of such an idea!
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/abolishing-the-torah/
 

How to Read the Letters of Paul

In this episode, we compare Paul's letters with Rabbinic Responsa, legal correspondence. How does this change the way we interact and view these works?
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/how-to-read-the-letters-of-paul/

The Light of the Moon

In an ancient Midrash, the moon approached the Creator, asking how it should find its place amid the sun's brightness. The Creator's instruction provides insight for us today as to how we might best fulfill our purpose in life.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-light-of-the-moon/

A Story and the Discipline of Ethics

In this episode, we look at an excellent story of how we balance our traits and how we impact others.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/developing0the-soul-mussar-part-1/
 

All The Life In The World To Come

Among the many brilliant statements in a writing known as The Ethics of the Fathers, a beautiful and profound statement brings us very close to understanding the 'meaning of life'.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/all-the-life-in-the-world-to-come/

The Pharisees Who Wash the Outside of Cups

In this episode, we look at the hidden complexity of Jewish law behind Jesus' rebuke of Pharisees and understand his words in a more constructive and contextual way.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-pharisees-who-wash-the-outside-of-cups/
 

Rethinking Money

The wisdom of the Bible calls us to view our actions and experiences, not as isolated singularities, but as connected and holistic. This is especially true when it comes to money.
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/rethinking-money
 

Accepting Insults With Joy

Want to learn a quick method for spiritual elevation? In this episode, we'll learn how doing nothing might be the best step for your growth.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/accepting-insults/
 

New Wine in Old Wineskins

At first glance, the popular interpretation of these passages has become so entrenched, the heading of this section is called, “The Superiority of the New”. The translators are preemptively telling us that what is “new” is better. Is this what we're to take away from this teaching?
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/new-wine-old-wineskins
 
 

The Cursing of the Fig Tree

In this episode, we look at the bizarre account where Jesus takes his vengeance out upon a random fig tree on the side of the road. This story concludes with many rightfully scratching their heads. Let's see if we can make sense of this passage.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-cursing-of-the-fig-tree/