32-01. The Ramban (5767). The Ramban has a very unique understanding of the story of the Egel. Aharon intended it to be a representation of G-Dly gevura. It didn’t work out that way and a new prohibition was added as a precaution. This is an intermediate level class on the golden calf. The class provides a fascinating introduction to the different opinions of Rashi, Even Ezra, and the Ramban. One question that is examined is whether or not it was forbidden to make the golden calf from the outset. Further, if it was not forbidden, what is the source of the grievous chet ha’egel (sin of the golden calf)? All Hebrew is clearly translated into English.
