Michael Franco

Kohelet Chapter 5: The True Path to Happiness

In this chapter, we notice the shift that Kohelet takes, beginning to discuss matters of general wisdom for the remainder of the book. In this class, we emphasize the path that Kohelet lays out towards a life of happiness, assessing which parts we can embrace and which parts we feel come up short.

Kohelet Chapter 4: Human Relationships

Human relationships take many forms, with human dynamics at the heart of so many of our experiences. Here, we delve into the dynamics that play such a strong role in our daily interactions, hearing Kohelet's philosophical take on the meaning or lack of meaning that emerges from these relationships.

Vayaqhel-Pequde 2021: True Redemption

What is the meaning of the concept of redemption? It seems that this idea has a double-meaning -- exemplified in both the parasha and in the story of Tuvia Belski -- meanings that are fundamental to understanding the covenant between God and Israel. 

Kohelet Chapter 3: Time

In this class, we read chapter 3 of Kohelet together, standing in awe of the beautiful prose of the narrator regarding proper times for different experiences in life. We reflect at length on the lessons to be learned. (Audio is fuzzy briefly in the beginning, but is otherwise clear).

Ki Tissa 2021: True Perfection

In this week's podcast, we confront the question, "How can an infinite being such as God encounter finite humans? How can God be both immanent and transcendent?" The answer we propose may surprise you.

Kohelet Class 2: Chapter 2: Pleasure and Toil, Wisdom and Folly

In this class, we delve into chapter 2 of Kohelet, as the narrator brings us into his thoughts on the meaninglessness of toil and pleasure alike. We then explore themes on wisdom and folly. As always, we try to notice where it is that the narrator may be erring in his thinking, while making the space for his downbeat tone.

Parashat Tessaveh 2021: In the Details

Why do we feel that the details of this week's Parasha do not resonate with us? What is the proper way to approach the meaning of the priestly garments and intricate utensils of the mishkan? In this week's podcast, we learn a new way of understanding these questions and the implications for how we can truly appreciate the mundane elements of our lives, apprehending how we can then marvel at the very fact of existence itself.

Rationalism vs. Mysticism

In this class, we begin to discuss the differences between analyzing Judaism from a rationalist vs. mystical worldview, based on Rabbi Natan Slifkin's book "Rationalism vs. Mysticism." We will continue with this class series in a few months, with God's help.

Kohelet Class 1: Introduction and Chapter 1: A Courageous Pursuit

I am very excited to introduce a new class series on Sefer Kohelet (Ecclesiastes)! In this class, we introduce Sefer Kohelet and study chapter 1 with the JPS commentary, alongside insights from psychology, philosophy, and modern sensibilities. Enjoy!

Parashat Yitro 2021: 10% Bee

Humans are indeed selfish creatures. But is that the whole story? In this podcast, we answer this question in the context of Parashat Yitro and explore the meaning of Jonathan Haidt's claim that humans are 10% bee.