When did the minhag of Kitnios begin and how did it start? Is it just a minhag or a gezaira? What is included in Kitnios?  These are some of the numerous questions which are answered in this special shiur. Also included is a discussion about the Reform Movement's attempt to abolish issur kitnios.  Achsanya Shel Torah

The 18th century was a period of great upheaval as the reigns of ancient monarchies were cast off Europe's growing population. It was at this point that the basic tenants of religion were questioned like never before; examined under the gaze of enlightened minds. New ideas were introduced, and life took on a new meaning for many Jews. It was in this backdrop that myriads of Jews succumbed to the tsunami of secularization.  Rabbi Hellmann takes the journey through this turbulent period, detailing the various personalities and events which makes this period so important to understanding the modern era.

Medrashim are fundamental texts in Judaism. However, many of these works have unknown or even questionable origins. Are all Medrashim created equal? In this episode, Rabbi Hellmann provides a general picture of when and how medrashim came to be. Certain works are discussed at length such as the Shimusha Rabba and Haggada Shel Pesach.

A small city in southern Germany became the topic of discussion due to a shortened pole in the Eiruv. Listen to the incredible history of this city and the surrounding region as well as some of the great Torah personalities who led the community. This podcast is connected to the Parshas Beshalach parsha sheet publication from Achsanya Shel Torah.

A question everyone who learns Gemara asks: Who Authored Tosfos?  Listen to the latest podcast as we explore the origins of the Tosfos Yeshivos, specifically the school of Rabbeinu Yitzchak Hazakein in Dampierre, France. What is the fundamental difference of Tosfos verses earlier commentaries on the Talmud? Who wrote the version of Tosfos printed on the side of every Gemara today?

Dovid Hamelech of Prague refers to Rav Dovid Oppenheim who served as the Chief Rabbi of Moravia and later of Prague. Rav Oppenheim amassed one of the largest collections of Jewish books and manuscripts of all time. At the time of his passing his library numbered more than 7,000 printed books and 1,000 manuscripts. His responsa were published under the title Nishal Dovid. He passed away in 1736 and is buried in Prague. 

The school of Rebbi Yehuda Hachassid introduced the kabbalistic approach to Southern Germany. Following generations continued to develop these teachings, integrating the ideas of Lurianic Kabbala as well. This culminated with the great luminary Rabbi Nosson Adler of Frankfurt who disseminated these teachings through his students across the continents. The students who settled in Bavaria took a unique approach to these teachings, always keeping it hidden from public view to an extreme degree.

Rav Nosson Maz was the leader of the Frankfurt Kehilla for much of the latter half of the 18th century. His brilliant mind, numerous seforim, and prestige, is only more inspiring when shown side-by-side with his humble character. Listen to the incredible details of the life of this Torah giant and his unbelievable ban on the seforim of the Noda B'Yehuda.

Napoleon Bonaparte has a unique place in world history. Listen to a discussion about how his policies and laws had lasting effects far beyond what could have been imagined. Jewish communities came in contact with Napoleon quite often; he was fascinated with them, but how did they view him? 

Rav Akiva Eiger is known for his genius and unique learning style. As the Chief Rabbi of Posen, Rav Eiger became tasked with implementing secular education in Jewish schools in his region. In this capacity, he became the leading Torah scholar in Germany, providing direction for numerous communities in this area. Discussion about Rabbi Hertz Wesel and how the approach to secular studies in his publication "Divrei Shalom V'Emes" was frowned upon by Orthodox leaders.

Learn about the Vilna Gaon and his trip to Berlin! Included is a fascinating discussion about the Vilna Gaon's interaction with early reformers. 

Learn about Rav Aron Fuld, the last of the illustrious dayanim of Frankfurt. Take a dive into the fascinating story of the judicial system of that city. 

Rav Yedidya Tia Weil, son of Rav Nesanel Weil (author of Korban Nesanel), was one of the leading Torah luminaries in the second part of the 18th century. He authored more than half a dozen works, many still remaining in manuscript form to this day. Listen to a clear overview of his life and legacy!  

Rav Mendel Rosenbaum was one of the leaders of Orthodox Jewry in Germany during the nineteenth century.  Gain a unique perspective of Bavarian Jewry. Learn about the personalities of Rav Mendel Rosenbaum, his son Rav Yona, and his son-in-law Rav Eliezer Bergmann.

Rabbi Dovid Tzvi Hoffmann was one of the last Torah leaders and poskim of German Jewry. He authored a commentary on Chumash and responsa titled Melamed L'hoil. 

Tevilas Ezra is a interesting topic which has become integrated into practice more and more in this generation. Was this practiced back in Ashkenaz? Did it stop due to Reform influences?  Learn about the German Jewish approach to kabbalah in general and personal exercises in mystical areas. A short talk to give a glimpse into a giant topic!