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Rabbi Leone de Modena was one of the most fascinating figures of Renaissance Jewish history: a prodigy, prolific writer, celebrity preacher in the Venetian ghetto, and a lifelong gambling addict. In this episode of Jewish History Nerds, Yael and Schwab explore his dramatic life in 17th-century Venice, his debates about Jewish law and gambling, and his surprising influence on both Jews and Christians. His story is brilliant, tragic, and deeply relevant in today’s age of sports betting and online gambling.
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Watch Yael and Schwab on YouTube:
Sources and summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1InrXhFPXoVLetO1XWExJhu1h_hkiCZ_EVhHulLvtwXc/edit?usp=sharing
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For other podcasts from Unpacked, check out:
Soulful Jewish Living
Stars of David with Elon Gold
Unpacking Israeli History
