Organs, mixed choirs, and rabbis in graduation gowns—Reform Judaism was the Jewish world's bold leap into modernity. In Reform Judaism in 10 Minutes, we'll explore how this movement began in 19th-century Germany, when Jews sought to adapt tradition to fit the Enlightenment and contemporary life. From shortening services and introducing vernacular prayers, to rethinking kosher laws and gender roles, Reform Judaism embraced change as a way to keep Judaism meaningful in every age. Today, it's the largest Jewish denomination in North America, emphasizing personal choice, social justice, and inclusive communities, while still holding onto ritual in creative, evolving ways. We'll talk about its origins, its critics, and how it continues to shape Jewish life—from lively Shabbat bands to activism on the world stage. Ten minutes, one movement, and a story of tradition meeting innovation head-on.

Strict laws, ancient traditions, and modern challenges—welcome to the world of Orthodox Judaism. In Orthodox Judaism in 10 Minutes, we'll explore the branch of Judaism most committed to preserving halakha (Jewish law) as binding and timeless. We'll trace its roots in 19th-century Europe, when Jews responded to modernity by doubling down on tradition, and see how it grew into diverse expressions today—from Modern Orthodox communities balancing Torah and secular life, to Haredi and Hasidic groups focused on insularity and spiritual intensity. We'll look at daily practices like kosher, Shabbat, and prayer, plus the role of rabbis and community institutions. Along the way, we'll highlight how Orthodox Judaism grapples with questions of modern society, education, gender roles, and technology—all while staying rooted in Torah. Ten minutes, one branch of Judaism, and a look at how the oldest traditions still shape Jewish life in the present.

Satmar, Lubavitch, Breslov, Ger—why are there so many names in Hasidism, and what makes them different? In Overview of Hasidic Branches in 10 Minutes, we'll take a whirlwind look at the major dynasties that grew out of the Hasidic revival. Each traces its roots back to a rebbe with a unique style: Chabad-Lubavitch, known for outreach and philosophy; Satmar, fiercely protective of tradition; Breslov, centered on joy, song, and Rabbi Nachman's teachings; Belz, Ger, and others with their own distinct practices and communities. We'll explore what unites them—spiritual devotion, strong community life, and deep ties to a charismatic leader—while highlighting the flavors that make each group unique. Think of it as a family tree full of cousins who share the same roots but argue over everything from philosophy to prayer tunes. Ten minutes, many branches, and a window into one of the most vibrant parts of Jewish life today.

Dancing, storytelling, mysticism, and some very distinctive hats—welcome to the world of Hasidism. In Hasidism in 10 Minutes, we'll trace how this spiritual revival movement began in 18th-century Eastern Europe with the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, who emphasized joy, prayer, and a personal connection to God over dry intellectualism. We'll explore the rise of charismatic rebbes, the importance of community, and the rich culture of Hasidic life—from nigunim (soulful melodies) to tisches (communal gatherings). We'll also touch on the controversies, as opponents argued Hasidism strayed too far from tradition, sparking passionate debates that shaped Jewish life for centuries. Today, Hasidic groups thrive around the world, from Brooklyn to Jerusalem, each with unique customs but a shared devotion to spirituality and community. Ten minutes, one movement, and a look at how joy and devotion transformed Judaism.

Ancient legends, DNA studies, and customs that look strikingly familiar—meet the Lemba Jews of Southern Africa. In The Lemba Jews of Southern Africa in 10 Minutes, we'll dive into the story of a people in Zimbabwe and South Africa who claim descent from Jewish ancestors that traveled centuries ago, possibly from Yemen. The Lemba practice male circumcision, avoid pork, and even have a clan tradition of priestly descent that echoes the Jewish kohanim. Recent genetic research has suggested links to Middle Eastern origins, sparking new interest in their story. But beyond science, the Lemba's identity is rooted in cultural memory, tradition, and pride in being a distinct people. We'll explore how they've balanced these customs with local African cultures, and what their story reveals about the wide global reach of Jewish history. Ten minutes, one remarkable community, and a reminder that Jewish identity has always been both ancient and surprisingly diverse.

From East Africa comes one of the most remarkable modern Jewish stories. In Ugandan Jews in 10 Minutes, we'll explore the tale of the Abayudaya—"People of Judah"—a community that embraced Judaism just over a century ago. Starting with Semei Kakungulu, a local leader who broke from Christianity and began observing the Torah, the Abayudaya built synagogues, kept kosher, and celebrated Shabbat in rural Uganda. Despite persecution under Idi Amin, when Judaism was banned and many were forced into hiding, the community endured and later connected with global Jewry. Today, thousands of Abayudaya practice Judaism, with some recognized by major denominations, sending students to Israel and America while keeping their unique Ugandan melodies and customs alive. Ten minutes, one inspiring community, and proof that Jewish identity can take root anywhere faith and resilience are strong.

Spices, silk, and synagogues by the sea—welcome to the story of India's Jews. In Indian Jews in 10 Minutes, we'll explore how Jewish communities took root on the subcontinent over two thousand years ago. From the ancient Cochin Jews who traded along the Malabar Coast, to the Bene Israel who kept Shabbat even after losing much of their Hebrew, to the Baghdadi Jews who brought new traditions in the 18th century, Indian Jewry is a tapestry of history and culture. We'll look at their unique synagogues, their role in trade and politics, and their vibrant customs blending Jewish tradition with Indian flavor. Though many emigrated to Israel after 1948, their legacy remains alive in India today—through songs, stories, and beautifully preserved synagogues. Ten minutes, three communities, and one reminder that Jewish life has always thrived in the most unexpected places.

Silk Road traders, hidden synagogues, and a Jewish community in the heart of China—yes, really. In Kaifeng Chinese Jews in 10 Minutes, we'll explore the surprising history of the Jewish community that settled in Kaifeng nearly a thousand years ago. Likely arriving as merchants from Persia, these Jews built a synagogue, kept kosher, and maintained traditions even as they blended into Chinese society. Over centuries, they adopted Chinese names, customs, and language, while still preserving Torah scrolls and fragments of Hebrew prayer. We'll look at how floods, assimilation, and political upheaval eventually caused the community to fade, and why their descendants today still proudly remember their Jewish roots. It's a story of migration, adaptation, and identity that challenges what we think we know about where Jewish history has traveled. Ten minutes, one forgotten synagogue in China, and a reminder that Judaism has always been global.