Kolot: Voices from The Ark Synagogue
The Ark Synagogue 24 episodes Oct 31, 2026
Kolot is the podcast of The Ark Synagogue, a Progressive Jewish community in Northwood, London. It features sermons, reflections, and conversations exploring Jewish life, learning, and values. Rooted in tradition yet open to new perspectives, the episodes aim to inspire thought, connection, and belonging. The podcast welcomes Jewish listeners, those exploring Judaism, and anyone seeking meaningful reflection.
Episodes
The Courage to Question
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky links this week’s Israeli elections to Parashat Vayera, showing how the Akedah, the Shunammite woman and Hannah model different responses to uncertainty. She argues that true commitment means questioning authority, protecting life, and staying engaged after the vote, especially as Rachel celebrates her Bat Mitzvah. Listeners will leave with concrete ideas for turni
Our Bodies, Our Voices
In this talk Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky connects Breast Cancer Awareness Month with the story of Sarah’s laughter in parashat Vayera, showing how communal responsibility can turn private pain into collective action. She argues that true listening—especially from men—turns silence into care, echoing the Jewish value of pikuach nefesh. Listeners will leave with concrete ideas for supporting th
Bringing Blessing into the World
In this talk Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores how Abram’s call to "Lech Lecha" models a covenant that starts with personal responsibility and expands to a universal mission of blessing. She uses a midrash about a boy helping only his grandmother to illustrate the challenge of extending love beyond our immediate circles, and applies that insight to contemporary questions about Israel’s role as
A Women's World
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky reflects on a mentoring morning for teenage girls and connects it to the hidden role of Noach’s wife, Naamah, in Parashat Noach. She argues that naming and listening to women’s stories unlocks possibilities for the next generation and strengthens our collective effort to repair the world. Listeners will come away with concrete ideas for how adults can support girls
The Land is a Sacred Trust
Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores how the opening verses of Genesis and Rashi's early commentary frame the land of Israel as a sacred trust rather than an absolute claim. She challenges the reduction of Zionism to a single political label, arguing that true Zionism can coexist with Palestinian self‑determination and a responsibility to justice. Listeners will leave with a nuanced view of ident
Tadir v’she-eino Tadir Kodem
In this talk the speaker unpacks the halachic rule “Tadir v’she’Eino Tadir, Tadir Kodem” – the idea that regular practices take precedence over occasional ones. By tracing the rule through Shabbat blessings, Torah‑reading order, and even ancient Temple sacrifices, they show how it points to a deeper ethic: make the ordinary sacred. Listeners will leave with a concrete way to shape persona
The Elephant in the Sukkah
What does a Talmudic debate about using an elephant as a sukkah wall have to do with grief?In this Erev Sukkot sermon, Rabbi Lea Mühlstein reads the rabbis' discussion in Sukkah 23a alongside Sherri Mandel's children's book The Elephant in the Sukkah, where a boy makes room for a singing elephant by letting it become one of the walls. Drawing on Mandel's work with bereaved children, she s
Being Human in the World of AI
In this morning sermon Rabbi Lea Mühlstein asks how we define humanity amid the rise of artificial intelligence, contrasting machine efficiency with Jewish ideas of wisdom, responsibility, and repentance. She weaves together a poem about AI‑generated meal plans, Pope Leo XIV’s take on the Tower of Babel, and the Talmudic debate between Hillel and Shammai to argue that a "heart of many roo
The Gates We Lock, and the Gates That Open
In this powerful Yom Kippur sermon Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores how the security doors that protect us can also become inner barriers that shape our lives. She distinguishes between pachad (raw fear) and yirah (a reverent awe) and asks listeners to consider what fear is asking us to protect or surrender. Drawing on the trauma of the Manchester attack and the story of Isaac, she challe
Binding of Yitzchak
In this sermon, Student Rabbi Dani Zekhry examines the binding of Isaac (the Akedah) to show how true faith must never suspend ethics. Drawing on the Talmudic midrash, Kierkegaard, and Levinas, they argue that seeing the "face of the other" replaces blind obedience with moral responsibility. Listeners will leave with a concrete way to apply this ethic to contemporary conflicts, from footb
The Knife in Our Hearts
In this sermon Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores how the wound of Isaac’s near‑sacrifice lives on as intergenerational trauma, and how the Hebrew verb nasa (“to lift, bear, carry”) offers a way to bear that legacy differently. Listeners will hear a vivid reading of the binding of Isaac, reflections on the silence of Sarah, and a call to remember without letting memory become a prison, weav
The Eclipse of God
In this moving sermon Rabbi Lea Mühlstein reflects on the lingering question ‘where is God?’ raised by 9/11 and other tragedies, exploring the concept of hester panim – the hidden face of God. She draws on Martin Buber’s eclipse metaphor and a Hasidic tale to argue that our task is not to explain suffering but to keep seeking the divine in acts of compassion, justice, and human connection
A Time for Turning
In this sermon Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores t’shuvah as a turning‑to‑God and a return to our truest selves, arguing that repentance is less a reset button and more a spiral that moves us forward. She weaves biblical language, poetry, and personal teaching to show how radical honesty and choosing a new direction can reshape our lives even when the past cannot be undone. Listeners will come
Standing Here, All of Us
In this sermon Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky shows how Parashat Nitzavim embodies the heart of Progressive Judaism: everyone stands in the covenant, Torah belongs to all, and we are called to choose life. She weaves the declaration "Atem nitzavim hayom kulchem" with the principle "Lo bashamayim hi" and the call "Uvacharta bachayim" to argue that each of us must claim the Torah, add our voice, a
This Day
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein reflects on the phrase “this day” in Deuteronomy 26:16, showing how each daily ritual can be a fresh encounter with the Divine. Drawing on Lea Goldberg’s secular poetry, the Compelling Commitments of Rabbi Elli Tikvah Sarah, and the mysticism of the Gerer Rebbe, he argues that ordinary practice and special moments are united by a responsibility to seek meaning. Liste
I Live in Me and in You
In this talk Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores Abraham Joshua Heschel’s poem that blurs the line between self, other, and the divine, arguing that every human being carries a spark of holiness. He connects that vision to the power of prayer, the moral weight of everyday mitzvot, and the restorative rhythm of Shabbat, while also reflecting on the recent loss of a veteran member of the Ark com
One Year...
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky looks back on her first year at The Ark, using the parashah Ki Tetze to explore the weight of vows and the call to never remain indifferent. She shares how Elul’s season of review and the upcoming Kol Nidrei invite both personal accountability and the possibility of release, and she renews her promise to the congregation with a heartfelt "Lo tuchal lehit'alem." Lis
Wise and Simple Things
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the Torah command not to cut down fruit-bearing trees during war, linking it to the broader principle of bal tashchit and contemporary issues of settler violence in the West Bank. He shows how caring for trees becomes a moral lens for evaluating destruction, terrorism, and the ethics of war, and invites listeners to consider how Jewish law can inform ecologi
Clues
In this talk Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky likens the laws of Parashat Re’eh to clues in a mystery game, showing how each commandment points to active choice, responsibility, and compassion. She argues that progressive Judaism interprets Torah through justice, human dignity, and the covenant of chosenness, urging listeners to open their hands to the needy and continually work toward tikkun olam
When Law Meets Life
In this talk Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores how the Torah’s warning of blessing and curse in Re'eh can inform our response to the new Equality and Human Rights Commission Code on single‑sex services. She outlines three halachic approaches—le‑chatchilah vs. b’diavad, sha’at ha‑dechak ke‑di’avad dami, and puk chazi mai amma devar—and shows how they help balance legal obligations with lived co
Learning to Love
In this episode the speaker explores how love in Judaism is a commanded act of noticing and protecting the other, using a chance encounter with Layla on the Tube to illustrate the Torah’s call to love the stranger. Listeners will hear connections between the Tu b’Av festival, the biblical injunction to love the ger, and the Talmudic story of love emerging after mourning, and will be invit
Finding Comfort in the In-Between
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein guides listeners through the in‑between days of Av, exploring how Tisha B'Av’s mourning can open space for memory, prayer, and the hope of Shabbat Nachamu. He draws on biblical verses, historic prayers, and the Adrabah prayer to show how seeing the good in others and listening to the Divine’s voice can transform grief into comfort. The sermon invites you to pause, re
Do Not Add — Except That We Always Have
In this talk the speaker explores Deuteronomy 4:2’s warning against adding or subtracting from the commandments, arguing that the real demand is humility and honesty about our interpretive work. Drawing on Rashi, Maimonides, and the Talmudic image of Torah as a living plant, the sermon shows how progressive Judaism can expand the tradition while staying rooted in its core. Listeners will
Moments in the Wilderness
In this heartfelt sermon, the speaker draws on Moses' final moments in the desert to show how remembering our story can quiet fear when we stand on the brink of a new beginning. Listeners will learn to use the wilderness—both literal and metaphorical—as a place for pause, reflection, and hearing God’s voice, and to carry the Torah, memory, and community forward for themselves and the next
Does Her Word Count?
Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores a contemporary midrash by Rivka Lubitch that asks whether a woman's word is worth less than a man's, unpacking the biblical law that lets fathers or husbands annul a woman's vow. She contrasts this legal history with a mystical reading that sees the vow as the soul's promise, urging listeners to examine both societal structures and inner fears that silence com
The Still Whisper: Elijah, Weariness and Finding Our Purpose
In this talk the speaker explores the deep fatigue of the prophet Elijah as reflected in Anna Kamienska’s poem and the haftarah narrative. Listeners will grapple with questions of purpose, the "kol demamah dakah" – the still, small voice – and how quiet moments can reveal our true spirit. The sermon connects poetry, prayer, and the challenge of listening to the divine whisper amid life’s
The Danger of the One Who Alone Knows the Way
In this sermon the speaker links Gabriella’s Bat Mitzvah to the story of Pinchas in Parashat Balak, warning against the temptation of single‑person saviors. Listeners will hear how the rabbis contain Pinchas’s zeal, valuing debate, humility, and collective decision‑making as the true hallmarks of Jewish maturity and responsible leadership. The talk also connects these ancient lessons to t
The Hidden Wells That Sustain Us
This sermon by Rabbi Lea Mühlstein invites listeners to reflect on the often-overlooked contributions of individuals who sustain communities and make a difference in quiet, unassuming ways. Using the story of Miriam from the Torah, Rabbi Mühlstein explores the theme of recognising and appreciating the 'hidden wells' that provide sustenance and support in our lives. The sermon encourages l
When Words Fall Against Stone
In this sermon, Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores a pivotal moment in Moses' leadership journey from Parashat Chukat. When tasked by God to speak to a rock to bring forth water, Moses instead strikes it with his staff, resulting in his disqualification from leading the people into the Promised Land. The rabbi examines the complexities of Moses' actions and the consequences, reflecting on the p
Who Would Need Fences?
This sermon explores the themes of community, volunteering, and Tikkun Olam (restitution of the world) through the lens of Parashat Korach and a Talmudic story known as the Oven of Achnai. The speaker discusses the importance of community and the impact of volunteering, highlighting that in a community bound by love and shared values, individualism is no match for the efficacy of collecti
The Strength of Optimism
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the concept of chesed shel emet, or 'the truest act of kindness,' and how it can inspire optimism in our lives. He discusses the importance of living with loving-kindness, generosity, and truth, and how these values can help us navigate life's challenges. The sermon also reflects on the significance of community and the role of joy and beauty in our spiritua
The Power of Words
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the impact of our words on the world, drawing from the story of Miriam and Aaron's criticism of Moses in Parashat Beha'alotcha. She discusses the importance of pausing before speaking, considering the weight of our words, and using them wisely. The sermon also touches on the significance of humility and restraint in communication, and how these values can
Close Enough to Hear Torah
Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the significance of Sinai and Shavuot, highlighting a crucial Midrashic teaching that revelation begins not with God's voice, but with people standing together in unity. She discusses the priestly benediction and its emphasis on peace, suggesting that Jewish community is about maintaining covenant even in disagreement. The sermon encourages listeners to consid
The Ineffable Name
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the connection between the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the festival of Shavuot, highlighting the importance of finding holiness in everyday moments. He reflects on the idea that perfection is not our reality, but rather we strive towards it through our trials and tribulations. The sermon also touches on the significance of the Omer and the journey
The Crown of a Good Name
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the Torah's progressive approach to leadership, highlighting how God chose the Levites for their merits rather than birthright. He discusses the importance of engaging with those we disagree with and shares examples of people building bridges across divides. The sermon also reflects on Yom Yerushalayim, advocating for a Progressive Jewish approach that empha
Am I Dreaming?
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky reflects on her journey to becoming the rabbi of the Ark Synagogue, exploring themes of identity, faith, and community. She discusses her experiences as a Brazilian woman with a mixed heritage, and how her grandmothers' teachings and her own perseverance led her to the rabbinate. The sermon touches on the idea of shmitah, or rest, and how it relates to her own path
Remembering the Light
In this sermon, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the challenging parasha of Bechukotai, where the terms of obedience to God are outlined in a list of blessings and curses. The rabbi questions how ancient Sages could claim that the blessings outweigh the curses when the curses seem so graphic and realistic. The sermon highlights glimmers of hope, including KKL-JNF's decision to cut funding t
Sacred Time, Sacred People
In this sermon, Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the concept of sacred time in Parashat Emor, highlighting how the Torah presents holiness as not just something received from God, but also as something we create. The rabbi discusses the importance of marking and making sacred time real in our lives, and how this relates to our responsibility to live lives of intention and compassion. List
Facing Fear and Trauma
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores how to live with fear and grief after traumatic events, drawing on the Torah portion Acharei Mot. She argues that healing requires structure, ritual, and community support, rather than ignoring or denying pain. The sermon emphasizes the importance of asking 'How are you?' and being present for one another.
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Counting Time, Telling Stories
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the significance of the Omer, a period of counting from Pesach to Shavuot, and how it can help us reframe our relationship with time and storytelling. She reflects on the ancient practice of counting grain and its connection to our modern lives, encouraging listeners to consider the stories they tell about their days and the moments of meaning they cultiva
A Garden for the Grieving Heart
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the poem 'The Garden of Song' by Moses Ibn Ezra, written during a time of personal exile and hardship. He discusses the challenges of comforting those who are grieving, using the example of Rabban Yohanan ben Zakkai and Rabbi Eleazar's parable. The sermon offers a nuanced perspective on how to approach grief and find solace in the presence of others.
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The Only Question
In this sermon, Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the question of what keeps us enslaved, using the story of the Israelites' journey to freedom. She argues that it's not the external obstacles that hold us back, but our own fears and the stories we tell ourselves. Rabbi Kulikovsky shares a personal story and insights from Jewish tradition to help listeners confront their own fears and take
Sacred Earth, Shared Duty
In this sermon, Michelle Gorman explores the intersection of Jewish ethics and environmental responsibility. She discusses how Jewish teachings emphasize the importance of living sustainably, protecting the natural world, and finding balance in our relationship with the Earth. You'll learn about the concept of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, and how Jewish texts like the Song of Song
Searching for Chametz in a Time of War
Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the deeper meaning of Pesach, arguing that freedom is not an end point but a call to responsibility. She discusses the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of moral accountability, using current events in Israel to illustrate the need for honest self-examination and the pursuit of justice. The sermon challenges listeners to consider how they are using
Keep the Fire Burning
Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the significance of Shabbat HaGadol, the day before Pesach, in the face of uncertainty and tragedy. She draws on Parashat Tzav to discuss the importance of maintaining hope and living fully, even when the world seems broken. The sermon emphasizes the need to build a vibrant, joyful Judaism that matters to young people.
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Will you Choose Judaism?
Rabbi Lea Mühlstein explores the question of why one would choose Judaism, particularly at a crossroads in life. She discusses the tension between Judaism's particular and universal voices, citing Rabbi John Rayner, and explains how Judaism's specificity is what allows it to contribute to the world. The sermon emphasizes that Judaism is not something one has, but something one does, requi
Strengthening One Another
Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the meaning of community and prayer through the lens of the parashot Vayakhel-Pekudei. She reflects on the challenges faced by the community and finds solace in the idea that being together and supporting one another offers protection and strength. The sermon highlights the importance of communal prayer and the sacred space created when people come togethe
The Wisdom of Community
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the wisdom of Solomon and Moses, highlighting the importance of community and seeking divine presence in times of struggle. He discusses how true wisdom is put into practice by being with others, and how seeking comfort from both community and God can bring strength and light into our lives. The sermon also touches on the idea that there are times when human
Clothes and Masks
In this sermon, Rabbi Andrea Kulikovsky explores the themes of identity, power, and vulnerability through the lenses of Parashat Tetzaveh and the Purim story. She examines how clothing, titles, and masks can both empower and conceal us, and argues that our true selves are made in the image of God, regardless of external trappings. The rabbi encourages listeners to use masks and clothes wi
A Sanctuary Within
In this sermon, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein delves into Parashat Terumah, exploring the idea of God's indwelling presence and the concept of generosity. He discusses how the Torah's portrayal of God as an intimate, indwelling presence challenges traditional notions of a distant, transcendent God. Rabbi Goldstein also examines two types of generosity: terumah, or gifts from the heart, and tzedak
Seeing God
Rabbi Aaron Goldstein explores the concept of beholding God through the intellect and prophetic vision, referencing Exodus 24:10. He discusses how the people of Israel experienced a covenantal agreement with God and invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences of the divine. The sermon touches on the idea of 'aura' and its connection to the known and unknown.
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