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SHMITTAH: THE IMPACT OF LOVING ALL JEWS

OP-ED: REFUGEES IN ISRAEL

TEL AVIV

Renewing Jewish Identity

UNESCO’s “White City” The Largest Open-Air Bauhaus Museum AUSTRALIA . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5.00 CANADA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$5.00 EUROPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .€3.00 ISRAEL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NIS 15 SOUTH AFRICA . . . . . . . . . . . R20 U.K. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £ 2.50 www.shiurtimes.com U.S.A.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3.00

VOL. 2, ISSUE NO. 19 JULY 2008

BET SHEMESH GUSH ETZION JERUSALEM MODI'IN TEL AVIV NEW YORK LONDON

Spotlight on Libyan Jews Safety in the Sun Real Estate Classifieds Inside CHUKAT, JULY 4, 2008

BALAK, JULY 11, 2008

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| May 2008

july 2008 ShiurTimes joins Am Yisrael in wishing our deepest sympathies to the 66 wounded and 3 killed in the terror attack in the center of Jerusalem on Wednesday, the 2nd of July. Our thoughts are with the families of Batsheva Unterman, Elizabeth Goren-Friedman and Jean Relavy.

Obama: 142,000,000

McCaine: 115,000

July 2008 4 Letters to the Editor 6 Tidbits 8 Healthy Living: Protect Your Skin by Sara Wolf

10 Are You Stuck? by Rabbi Yaacov Haber

12 On Baseless Hatred by Rav Shlomo Aviner

14 Psychology: The Gift of Listening b y Rafael Richman, PhD 16 All the King’s Men [and his Donkey] by Anne Gordon

18 Music by Ben Bresky

20 Finance: Don’t Ruin Your Kids by Douglas Goldstein, CFP

20 Relationships by Chana Frumin & David Kaufman

22 Ethics: Talmud & Environment by Rabbi Carmi Wisemon

24 Leadership Roles by Rabbi Alex Israel

26 In Focus: The Search For Meaning in Tel Aviv by Yehudit Singer

32 Fast Now, Feast in the Future

34 Community Profile: Ganei Tikvah by Ilene Bloch-Levy

36 Determine-nation by Rav Aaron Liebowitz

38 Travel: TLV by Rabbi Mordechai Weiss

40 Op-Ed: Asylum or Death by Mollie Gerver

42 Classifieds 49 Recipe 50 Last Laugh

by Rabbi Efraim Sprecher cover credit: Zur Zigdon

Second Year, No. 19 July © 2008 by ShiurTimes, Inc., 1 Ben Yehuda Street. All rights reserved. To contact one of the staff with your questions, concerns, or subscription inquiries, please call (02)625-6225. For advertising needs, please call: (02)625-6227 or e-mail: staff.editors@shiurtimes.com. Managing Publisher & Editor-in Chief: Elie Rubin Editor: Yehudit Singer Marketing Manager: Hillie Roth Art Director: Deb Houben Classifieds & Marketing: David Hirschfield Studio Rubin & Co: 054-723-4520 Stock Photography: istockphoto.com, Flickr. Copyrighting laws apply to all articles, and nothing may be reprinted without express permission from the Publisher. ShiurTimes is not responsible for the content of the advertisements. The Opinions of the articles within the ShiurTimes rest solely upon the authors. Reproduction of any parts of the ShiurTimes is forbidden without permission. PLEASE REFRAIN FROM READING THE SHIURTIMES IN THE BEIT KNESSET DURING TIMES OF TEFILLA. Please make sure to recycle your copy of ShiurTimes when you finish reading! www.shiurtimes.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR your magazine’s decision to disseminate Sonya’s anti-Arab opinion.

GUSH KATIF RESIDENTS ON INDEPENDENCE DAY

SHAUL SCHARF:

Thanking you in advance, Yonatan A.

Rebuilding a Nation

POINT OF VIEW

Faces of Israel

Uniformity

The State of Israel Special Real Estate Classifieds AUSTRALIA . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3.50 CANADA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$2.50

VOL. 2, ISSUE NO. 17 MAY 2008

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KEDOSHIM, MAY 2, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 7:03 PM 8:00 PM 7:02 PM 8:00 PM 6:40 PM 8:00 PM 7:03 PM 8:01 PM 7:04 PM 8:02 PM 7:35 PM 8:39 PM 8:07 PM 9:26 PM

EMOR, MAY 9, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 7:08 PM 8:06 PM 7:07 PM 8:05 PM 6:45 PM 8:05 PM 7:08 PM 8:06 PM 7:09 PM 8:08 PM 7:42 PM 8:48 PM 8:19 PM 9:40 PM

BEHAR, MAY 16, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 7:13 PM 8:11 PM 7:12 PM 8:11 PM 6:50 PM 8:11 PM 7:13 PM 8:12 PM 7:14 PM 8:13 PM 7:49 PM 8:56 PM 8:29 PM 9:53 PM

BECHUKOTAI, MAY 23, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 7:17 PM 8:17 PM 7:17 PM 8:16 PM 6:54 PM 8:16 PM 7:18 PM 8:17 PM 7:19 PM 8:19 PM 7:56 PM 9:03 PM 8:39 PM 10:06 PM

Reader of the month:

No Arabs in Israel

public. Thank you to our readers who brought this to our attention.

Dear Yonatan, Thank you for writing to us with your concern. You have certainly raised a very important issue. The article that showed Sonya’s opinion was entitled, “Faces of Israel.” The goal was specifically to show the diverse faces and opinions about Zionism, and the independence of the State of Israel. The decision to publish Sonya’s opinion caused a lot of discussions amongst our staff. Should we be honest and portray the true reality that we encountered as we interviewed people on the streets, or do we adjust the opinions that are in line with our worldview?

I would be grateful if you could shed some light on your decision to publish Sonya’s understanding of independence as “It means life in Israel with no Arabs” (Issue #17, Yom HaAtzmaut). The reason I ask is that my family and I enjoyed reading our complimentary copy at the Eldan Hotel lastWanted! Shabbat so Salesperson much, until my teenage daughter noticed the aforementioned quote whilst being served Shabbat breakfast by our friendly and helpful Arab waiter.

By no means did we intend to cause sinat chinam, and after receiving responses similar to yours, we do realize that it was a misjudgment on our part. Yes, there are those who have an outlook of hatred and prejudice, but as a media source (and moral human beings), we should not be perpetuating such ideas. As much as we do aim to diversify the voices that we feature in the magazine, should always establish boundaries ShiurTimes Magazine is looking for we about what is ethical and just. While we She pointed out that your publishing this are open to dialogue that will engender comment was incitement to prejudice communication amongst groups, against all Arabs. I could have reassured publishing an opinion that encourages her that it was only “Arabs who bomb us” unwarranted discrimination goes that was being referred to, but resisted against our values— specifically as I knew that her reply would be “How since we are a nation “rodef shalom” would they like it if a secular magazine (pursuing peace). Kol HaKavod to your printed that independence means “Israel daughter on addressing the subject. with no religious Jews”? I asked one of the orthodox Rabbis in our group if publishing the comment transgressed some halachik principle and the answer Editor’s Notes: was no, which was a bit disappointing!

Editorial Correction: Linda Derovan’s article, entitled “PESACH: NO THANKS” that appeared in the ST Pesach Guide was the shorted version of a much lengthier article. Read the article in its entirety on our website: www.shiurtimes.com/ pesach-no-thanks °

Want to work for the BEST magazine in Israel? IN FOCUS: MAESTRO ELLI JAFFE CHESED: TIKVA IN THE MARKET

The Music Issue From Mendelssohn to Bible Rap

PLUS: Archeological Site

Shemittah

Herod’s Tomb

Heter or Not?

Financial Philantropy

Assertiveness

The proper equilibrium

Managing your charity

I am happy to see that your magazine subscribes to Orthodox principles (“please refrain from reading SHIURTIMES during tefilla etc.”) and I would therefore be grateful for any information you can provide to help me explain to my daughter that your magazine’s decision to publish that comment was justified, in order to restore shalom bayit and prevent sinat chinam. I must add that she has no issue with Sonya’s right to freedom of speech; her issue is with

In Volume 2, issue 18, a letter to the editor appeared which distressed many of our readers. The author had written a statement regarding the use of “proper Ivrit” amongst the “yeshivaische sector.” ST recognizes that this is a generalization. The word “kevarim” should have been used instead of “k’varim” in the Purim issue. Such a typographical error is not related to any sector’s use of Hebrew. ST apologizes if this letter insulted the

‫מסד‬

REMEMBERING: YOSSI HAREL

When your partner is ill

Disposable relationships

Loving without conditions AUSTRALIA . . . . . . .$3.50 CANADA. . . . . . . . . .$2.50 EUROPE. . . . . . . . . .€2.00

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Have we gone mad? MISHPATIM, FEBRUARY 1, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 6:09 PM 5:14 PM 6:09 PM 5:13 PM 6:08 PM 4:51 PM 6:09 PM 5:14 PM 6:10 PM 5:14 PM 6:20 PM 5:20 PM 6:19 PM 5:09 PM

TERUMAH, FEBRUARY 8, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 6:04 PM 5:08 PM 6:03 PM 5:08 PM 6:03 PM 4:45 PM 6:04 PM 5:08 PM 6:04 PM 5:08 PM 6:12 PM 5:12 PM 6:07 PM 4:56 PM

TETZAVEH, FEBRUARY 15, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 5:58 PM 5:02 PM 5:58 PM 5:02 PM 5:57 PM 4:39 PM 5:58 PM 5:02 PM 5:59 PM 5:02 PM 6:05 PM 5:03 PM 5:55 PM 4:43 PM

K TISSA, FEBRUARY 22, 2008 Candle lighting Shabbat Ends 5:52 PM 4:56 PM 5:52 PM 4:55 PM 5:51 PM 4:33 PM 5:52 PM 4:55 PM 5:53 PM 4:56 PM 5:57 PM 4:55 PM 5:43 PM 4:31 PM

‫תים‬ ‫רה‬

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a few good salespeople! Call NOW!

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TIDBITS

UNESCO’S “WHITE CITY” IN

THE 1920S, 1930S, AND 1940S TEL AVIV WAS A YOUNG, THRIVING CITY IN THE MIDST OF ECONOMIC, SOCIAL, CULTURAL AND GEOGRAPHICAL CHANGE. IT WAS DURING THIS PERIOD THAT THE PART OF TEL AVIV KNOWN AS “THE WHITE CITY” WAS BUILT. THE ARCHITECTS AND DESIGNERS OF THE CITY COULD NOT IMAGINE THAT THEIR CHOICE OF THE BAUHAUS STYLE OF ARCHITECTURE WOULD EVENTUALLY MAKE TEL AVIV THE LARGEST OPENAIR BAUHAUS MUSEUM IN THE WORLD.

IT WAS BECAUSE OF THE “THE WHITE CITY” THAT TEL AVIV WAS ADDED TO THE LIST OF 56 HISTORICAL CITIES IN THE WORLD IN 2003, AND BECAME ONE OF THE FEW

MODERN CITIES TO BE DECLARED A WORLD HERITAGE SITE BY UNESCO.

IN TEL AVIV, BAUHAUS

GAVE RISE TO A TYPICAL ISRAELI STYLE THAT WAS SUITABLE FOR THE HOT MEDITERRANEAN CLIMATE AND THE CITY ’S TURBULENT ATMOSPHERE. THE SIMPLE, SQUARE WHITE BUILDINGS SOUGHT AUSTERE BEAUTY FROM THE ASYMMETRICAL PLAY BETWEEN VARIOUS GEOMETRIC SHAPES. ROUND TERRACES WERE BUILT ALONGSIDE SQUARE WINDOWS, FLAT ROOFS, AND TALL PILLARS. CEILINGS WERE HIGHER AND ROOMS LARGER THAN USUAL AND LARGE WINDOWS OVERLOOKING THE URBAN PANORAMA WERE OPEN TO THE PLEASANT EVENING

SHERATON HOTEL (BEACH IN FRONT OF HOTEL) MEN: MON, WED, FRI WOMEN: SUN, TUES, THURS

TEL AVIV BEACHES| SEPARATE SWIMMING OPTIONS

BREEZE. IN KEEPING WITH THE ISRAELI TRADITION OF WARM HOSPITALITY, THE TERRACES OF THESE HOMES SERVED AS MEETING PLACES FOR THE RESIDENTS AND THEIR NEIGHBORS AS WELL AS FRIENDS PASSING BY.

VISITORS TO TEL AVIV CAN VISIT THESE BUILDINGS IN THE AREA OF ROTHSCHILD, BIALIK , AND DIZENGOFF STREETS, MARVEL AT THE BEAUTY OF THE HOUSES, AND SENSE THEIR GREAT CONTRIBUTION TO THE CITY ’S ARCHITECTURE. (BASED ON INFORMATION FROM THE ISRAEL MINISTRY OF TOURISMWWW.GOISRAEL.COM)

NORDAU BEACH MEN: MON, WED, FRI WOMEN: SUN, TUES, THURSDAY PHONE: 03-604-2257

BAT YAM MEN: MON, WED, FRI WOMEN: SUN, TUES, THURSDAY

T WO-STAGE, LOW-SOLIDS, UASB DIGESTION COMPONENT OF A MECHANICAL BIOLOGICAL TREATMENT SYSTEM

TEL AVIV’S “GREEN INITIATIVE” RISING

OIL PRICES AND A GROWING CONCERN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT HAS PUSHED ISRAEL, LIKE COUNTRIES ALL OVER THE WORLD, TO RELY MORE AND MORE ON ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF ENERGY.

CONGRUENT

WITH THE SPRAWLING BEACHES THAT LINE THE COAST OF TEL AVIV, THE ARROW-BIO PLANT USES A “BEACH TOWEL” ANALOGY TO EXPLAIN THEIR METHOD OF GENERATING ENERGY: WHEN YOU BRING HOME YOUR BEACH TOWEL, IT ’S STILL FULL OF SAND, AND YOU HAVE TO WASH IT. SO TOO, THE ARROW-BIO PROCESS “ WASHES” GARBAGE.

THE WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM PROCESSES MUNICIPAL

SOLID WASTE AND ACTUALLY REUSES CLOSE TO 75% OF THE GARBAGE THAT COMES IN. IT SEPARATES WASTE INTO THEIR DIFFERENT CATEGORIES RANGING FROM DIAPERS TO STONES, ULTIMATELY REDUCING THE LANDFILL BY 85%. BIODEGRADABLES ARE THEN SENT TO AN “ANAEROBIC DIGESTER ”—A PROCESS IN WHICH MICROORGANISMS BREAK DOWN BIODEGRADABLE MATERIAL IN THE ABSENCE OF OXYGEN TO CREATE ENERGY. ( THE PROCESS IS WIDELY USED TO TREAT WASTEWATER SLUDGES AND ORGANIC WASTES BECAUSE IT PROVIDES VOLUME AND MASS REDUCTION OF THE INPUT MATERIAL.)

ARROWBIO’S BIOGAS, THE

ON-SITE GENERATOR IS POWERED BY RICH METHANE GAS MIXTURE RELEASED WHEN ORGANIC GARBAGE DECOMPOSES. ABOUT 25% OF

THIS ENERGY GOES TO POWER THE MACHINERY AT THE SITE. OTHER 75% OF THE NON-POLLUTING POWER GOES BACK ONTO THE NATIONAL GRID, AND THE ISRAEL ELECTRIC CORP. CREDITS THE COMPANY FOR IT.

THE

BEGUN IN 2002, ARROW-BIO IS AN ENVIRONMENTALLYFRIENDLY PROCESS AND DOES NOT GENERATE POLLUTANTS THE WAY THAT INCINERATION DOES. A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF AN ARROWBIO PROCESS SUCCESS STORY IS HIRIYA, WHICH WAS A WASTE LANDFILL FOR FIFTY YEARS. TODAY HIRIYA IS THE BASE FOR A WASTE SORTING AND RECYCLING CENTER AS WELL AS A GREEN ENERGY CENTER. THERE ARE ALSO PLANS TO TURN THE SPACE INTO AN EXTENSION OF AYALON PARK IN THE NEAR FUTURE. | JULY 2008

Tidbits

It is a known fact that dictators have always been concerned for their own security. The way to deal with this anxiety was to establish a network of spy agents. Apparently, this strategy continues even today, with Hugo Chavez, President of Venezuela. New legislation in Venezuela has allowed for the establishment of four new intelligence services. The goal is to force citizens “to spy” on family members, neighbors, and work associates. Whoever does not cooperate with the intelligence services can expect punishment of up to six years imprisonment. The new law will also enable agencies to tap phone lines and follow the emails of its citizens without court approval. Chavez has announced that the new law will help prevent military rebellion.

1909

Year Tel Aviv was founded.

378,900

Population of TA in 2007.

49.9

% of Tel Aviv households who own cars.

Number of members in the TASE Board of Directors.

Tel AvivNumbers

Venezuela: Every Citizen Marked “SPY”

12.6

% of TA population living under the poverty line.

Negev’s New Solar Energy Development Center The Negev is now the hotbed for the development of solar energy. This past month, the Rotem Industrial Park inaugurated a new Solar Energy Development Center, thanks to largescale developers BrightSource Energy, Inc and subsidiary company, Luz II, Ltd. The solar field contains more than 1,600 full-size mirrors (heliostats) and a 60 meter tall tower topped by a solar boiler. The heliostats concentrate the sun’s energy onto the boiler, heating the water inside to 550ºC. Superheated steam will be piped from the boiler to a standard turbine where electricity will be generated. From here, transmissions lines will carry the power to homes and businesses. The solar power tower system will lower the cost of producing electricity. Based on the success of the solar energy plant in the Negev, similar plants will be built in the United States, and around the world

Sarkosy’s Israel Visit By Steve Weizman JERUSALEM (AP) -- French President Nicolas Sarkozy has said there could be no Mideast peace unless Israel drops its refusal to cede sovereignty over parts of Jerusalem claimed by the Palestinians, challenging one of Israel’s most emotionally held positions. Speaking to a packed session of the legislature, Sarkozy called on Israel to stop settlement in the West Bank. But he tempered his address by assuring Israel that it could count on France’s support in halting Iran’s nuclear program. Sarkozy, whose maternal grandfather was a Greek Jew, praised Israel’s democracy and quoted the biblical passage in which God promises the Holy Land to the children of Israel. The comments drew applause and broad smiles from most lawmakers but got scowls from the handful of Arab members. www.shiurtimes.com

5830

Number of hotel rooms in TA.

Floor on which Israel’s highest restaurant is located (in Azrieli Towers).

1,553,458.62

Carats of diamonds exported from Israel in May 2008.

TA ranking on the list of most expensive cities in the world.

415

Tons of recycled material collected in TA in 2007.

Number of hectares (12 acres) of dunes northeast of Jaffa in Ahuzat Bayit, the original suburb of TA.

48.1

% of population that is male.

Number of lifesaving stations on TA beaches.

50,000

Number of unregistered Asian foreign workers living in TA.

30.2

(ocelcius) maximum average temperature of TA in August.

Healthy Living

Protect Your Skin Direct exposure to Israel’s hot sun can lead to skin damage. by Sara Wolf

y mother’s fall from a bicycle turned out to save her life. She received stitches and was sent on her merry way. A year later, the bruise on her forehead had still not healed. At that point she decided to seek medical attention, and after a quick biopsy, she discovered she had skin cancer. I was in my early teens then. It was the first time I ever confronted any type of cancer, and it was enough to shake me up and make me aware of the dangers of basking in the sun. Most people today are more aware that prolonged exposure to the sun can pose a serious health problem, just as they know that smoking will lead to lung cancer and other health issues. I often wonder on a philosophical and halachik level how these scientific and medical facts translate into halachah. When was

Practical Tips to Protect Your Skin ° Avoid direct exposure to the sun as much as possible—especially during the middle of the day (between 10am-3pm), when the sun’s rays are strongest. ° Apply sunscreen liberally and frequently when outdoors, as this helps to create an extra layer of protection from the sun. ° Use a sunscreen with at least Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Cover all your skin and remember to reapply it every two hours, even if the sunscreen you use is “waterproof.” ° Skin cancer can develop on the lips. Both men and women should use lip products that include an SPF. ° Wear appropriate protective clothing with Ultra Protection Factor (UPF) for prolonged periods in the sun. This rating is an indicator of the amount of ultraviolet radiation that is absorbed. A t-shirt provides only moderate protection from sunburn, while a sun protective water top with a UPF rating of 50 is excellent protection.

the last time your rav spoke about sunscreen? Do our rabbis have an obligation to raise the issue when skin cancer is the world’s most common cancer today (according to the Skin Cancer Foundation)? Perhaps this realm should be left to the dermatologists, but how many people actually go for routine annual body checks, as suggested? Many people make the assumption that because they don’t frequent the beach, they are not at risk, but in fact, being out in the sun everyday exposes us to the ultraviolet radiation that the sun emits. Skin cancer is caused mainly by overexposure to these ultraviolet (UV) rays. There are three main types of skin cancer named after the type of cells they start from: basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma— known as common skin cancers— and melanoma. Melanoma is cancer of the skin’s melanocytes (pigment cells) and the most deadly form of skin cancer. Squamous occurs in the top level of the skin, basal cell in the middle layer of the skin and melanoma in the deep layers of the skin. Ultraviolet rays (UVR) are sneaky. They cause skin cancer and visible signs of aging. These rays reflect off the water and sand, and can even penetrate the glass windows of your car. Many people do not realize that even when they are inside their car or house, or when they sit next to a window with sunlight streaming in that they are exposed to ultraviolet rays. Sun damage is cumulative so even a little exposure everyday adds up. Obviously, staying in your home 24/7 will protect you from skin cancer, but it will not do much for your mental stability!

According to the Israel Cancer Society, in the last thirty years, the rate of people who have developed melanoma has skyrocketed six-fold with 900 new cases diagnosed a year. Ten thousand new cases on non-melanoma skin cancer are diagnosed each year. Although staggering, the good news about skin cancers is that they are preventable with the right education and actions. With early detection, cancers are curable. Children are not immune from skin damage, so steps should be taken to protect them, as well. My own children’s daily regiment includes sun screening before leaving for school. As parents, we would never think of allowing our kids to play on the beach without sunscreen coverage. We look for sun protective swimwear for our kids, but never for ourselves. For those of us that live under the hot sun in Israel, it is never too soon to start protecting our skin. Fortified with this abundance of scientific knowledge we have to go back and ask ourselves if we have a halachik obligation to take the time to protect our own health as well. We see clearly from the Torah’s statement “Guard your souls” (Devarim 4:15) that staying healthy is first and foremost a personal obligation. The Rambam, Hilchot Deot 4:1 says that it is impossible to attain true knowledge of G-d when one is sick and that a person is obligated to distance him/herself from anything that weakens the body. We therefore owe it to ourselves and to our families to take the best care of ourselves and protect not only our souls, but our bodies as well. See the side box for some practical tips on protecting yourself from the sun. ° Sara Wolf is the co-founder of HydroChic, a modest and sun protective swimwear line for women. She has conducted extensive research on skin protection and that causes of skin cancer. She currently lives in Ramat Beit Shemesh.

| July 2008

Summer Sale

on a variety of items from every department ceramics, doors, kitchens

S. Cohen STEEL & STYLE invites you, private customers, architects, interior designers, and contractors, to find the answer to all your design and construction needs under one roof and to benefit from our 2000sq.m. showroom full of quality products by the best Israeli and international designers. Professional and curteous team on-hand to assist you.

Phone: www.shiurtimes.com

Fax:

Showroom: Hataâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;asiyah 10, Jerusalem 9

PARSHAT CHUKAT

Are You Stuck? The paradox of the copper snake has been a huge asset for the Jewish people. by RABBI YAACOV HABER

he greatest fault of our people is that we are stiff-necked. By the same token, the greatest asset of our people is that we are stiff-necked!

In the wilderness, the Children of Israel complain and bicker so much that G-d becomes furious—they kvetched about the food, the heat, and the constant moving that had to be done—so G-d sends poisonous snakes and a plague to show them how ungrateful they are being. Can you imagine the horror? Before they could even take a step, they would have to check and make sure that the ground was snake-free. They went to sleep in fear, not knowing if they would get bitten in the middle of the night. If some precious water was left out, they wouldn’t be able to drink it—because perhaps a snake had injected some venom into the water. Many became sick; many died.

‘‘

The greatest asset of our people is that we are stiff-necked, and in our stubbornness we don’t welcome change.” Moshe prayed to Hashem. Hashem instructed Moshe to make a nachash nechoshet, a copper snake, and put it on a flag pole. It sounds like a play on words! “Nachash” means snake, and “nechoshet” means copper. Everyone would look up at the copper snake and would be saved. Incidentally, a modern version of this symbol is the caduceus (kerykeion in Greek), which is a staff with two snakes wrapped around it. This is a medical symbol associated with the Greek god Hermes. Of course its real origin is in our parsha! But what was the meaning of the copper snake?

stuck! The Geula is not for those that get stuck.

Copper and snake are actually opposites. Copper is the hardest and most inflexible material to be found in the desert. Copper is a symbol of inflexibility. The snake on the other hand has an extremely flexible backbone. A snake can curl into a little ball and is the ultimate in flexibility. The Jewish people had a problem. Freedom was something new to them. Although it was a dramatic change for the better, it was still a change, and they were having a difficult time dealing with it. Even a change for the better was a problem! The greatest asset of our people is that we are stiff-necked, and in our stubbornness we don’t welcome change. It is because of this stubbornness that we have been able to survive more challenges than any other nation on earth. Paradoxically, inflexibility is also the greatest fault of our people. We are a stiffed-neck people! If we are going to make it through the deserts of life and history we have to be stiff-necked. At the same time, we have to be flexible. Galut is not for those who get stuck. If we want to be free from galut we can’t allow ourselves to get

I often look around me and see people who are amazingly talented and gifted, yet they don’t seem to be getting anywhere. None of their dreams seem to be realized. Most of them have the potential to do very great things, but for whatever reason, they cannot. They are stuck, and it’s frightening to see. On the other hand, if we were not so stubborn, we would be a forgotten species. As Jews, it was our stiff neck that made us resist persecution, forced conversion, torture, and missionaries throughout the ages in order to survive. Hashem said to Moshe: Teach the people the secret of the nachash nechoshet! Teach them to have the firmness of copper, while maintaining the flexibility of a snake. Teach them the secret of survival as a Jew. ° Rabbi Yaacov Haver is the president of Torahlab, www.torahlab.org, an organization serving the world of Jewish education with unique and meaningful learning material.

| JULY 2008

Looking for something to do in Israel this summer?

Whether long-time resident or short-term tourist we invite you to join us in Jerusalem this July

at Matan,

the Sadie Rennert Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Institute for Torah

Our theme this summer is in honor of the Shemittah year and "Israel @ 60," and combines the physical and spiritual nurturing that the Jewish people gain from the Land of Israel:

Food for Thought: On Physical and Spiritual Sustenance Session I: July 6-17 Session II: July 20-31 Come for all of the above, or for any part of it (even just 1 shiur - special rates are available). Our accomplished faculty offers a wide array of text-based shiurim, some with chavruta-study. Shiurim are designed to be thought-provoking, for an audience that is well-educated "Jewishly." Sources are always provided in the original, with beit midrash assistance available for those whose text skills are weaker. All Summer Program shiurim are in English. Weekly tiyulim complement the Beit Midrash learning, as well. For all women, aged "19-99."

NOTE: Special afternoon "text workshops" (led by Sherri Mandel and Alieza Salzberg) use creative writing to enhance Torah study, through careful experience of text. For more details and a complete schedule, see the Matan website; http://www.matan.org.il/english/ OR contact the Matan office: email: info@matan.org.il phone: 972-(0)2-679-8688 www.shiurtimes.com

Halacha

On Baseless Hatred, Shmittah & Brotherhood by Rav Shlomo Aviner (translated by Rabbi Mordechai Friedfertig)

would like to discuss a newold doctrine: the doctrine of brotherhood. We, the entire Jewish people, are all brothers; so were we created and so were we born. The Zohar tells us that when we left Egypt, we had sunk to the bottom of the 49th level of impurity. Almost everything we had learned from our father Abraham was forgotten (Rambam, Hilchot Avodah Zarah, Ch. 1). However, a number of things remained— we remained brothers; we didn’t change our names, language or dress; and we didn’t gossip. On the merit of these traits, we were redeemed. Moshe Rabbeinu said, “‘Indeed the matter is known!’” (Sh’mot 2:14) meaning ‘Now I understand why we suffer: it is because of the evils of gossip. I saved

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In our opinions we may be divided, but not divisively so.”

the Hebrew from the Egyptian who was beating him, but people spread this news, and now I’m in danger’ (Rashi). Yet we didn’t all gossip. Those who gossiped either didn’t leave Egypt or dropped out along the way. They simply were not brothers. The brotherhood that we formed in Egypt is reparation for the groundless hatred that broke out between Joseph and his brothers, as well as for the arrogance of the sons of Rachel and Leah to the sons of the maidservants, Bilhah and Zilpah. In Egypt, we were all in the same boat. We became brothers. And this restitution appears strongly in the case of Moshe, as it says, “He went out to his brothers” (Sh’mot 2:11). This is the foundation for Israel existing as a people. On the other

hand, our sages expounded as follows: “There was an opaque darkness…People could not see each other” (Sh’mot 10:2223). When a person does not see his friend, it is the greatest darkness that there is. This is the foundation of the Sabbatical year. We are taught that the First Temple was destroyed because of bloodshed, idolatry, and sexual sin. These are undeniably heinous crimes. But could it be that the Temple was destroyed because of our abuse of the land— our non-observance of the Sabbatical year, the Shmittah year? Could it have gone that far? Rav Avraham Yitzchak Kook, explains in the introduction to his book “Shabbat Ha-Aretz” and in his article “Nechamat Yisrael” (Ma’amarei HaRe’iyah) that the theme of the Sabbatical year is love. We no longer say, “What’s mine is mine and what’s yours is yours;” instead we say, “What’s mine is yours.” We say, “Take, my brother. The harvest belongs to us all. It is for all of us to eat, and not for sale, and not to be destroyed. It is not even for making medicines. For if we become brothers, we won’t be sick.” The Land is very pleased with this. Then she too participates and yields three times as much produce as usual. Cain was cursed. G-d said, “When you work the ground, it will no longer give you of its strength” (Bereshit 4:12). Cain had jeopardized brotherhood. During the Sabbatical year, brotherhood returns, and then the blessing of the Land returns. In the Musaf Shemoneh Esreh we say, “Because of our sins, we were exiled from our land.” The Second Temple was destroyed because of sinat chinam, baseless hatred (Yoma 9b). Again, we had jeopardized our brotherhood. Now,

brotherhood has returned, and we have returned to our land. Yes, brotherhood has returned! Our nation is full of love! Obviously, there is a small minority of haters. In every camp there are several haters. Yet that is a negligible minority. If our nation has 50,000 haters, that is just 1%. Yet in all walks of life, people are talking to one another. There is brotherhood. In every family there are Jews of different types and from different streams. They should love one another and help one another. In every workplace, there are all sorts of workers, and they work together amicably. Especially in the Army, there is brotherhood. If there was not mutual love between comradesin-arms, we would have to close down the army. Love between comrades means that a person is prepared to be wounded or killed for his brother. Is that not unconditional love? And we find it not just amongst Israel’s heroes who were decorated for bravery after the last Lebanon War and Israel’s wars that preceded it, we find it in every fighter. We are not monolithic, but we are united. In our opinions we may be divided, but not divisively so. We can fight for our views, but let us not forget that we are brothers. Let us not say, “Cut the baby in half!” nor, “Let neither you nor I have it” (Orot HaTechiyah 20). The “Committee for Finding Flaws in Others” is not us. We are not members! The very idea is crazy. It’s divisive. It’s impure. Instead of casting blame— create. Build the Land. Build the nation! Be productive and work towards something positive. Brotherhood. Love. Unity. ° Rav Shlomo Aviner is Rosh Yeshiva of Ateret Yerushalayim. This article was transcribed and translated by Rabbi Mordechai Friedfertig.

| July 2008

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Psychology

Nourish your Child with the Gift of Listening [“Shema” part 2] Listening to your child will create an effective learning atmosphere. by Rafael Richman, PhD

our child communicates verbally and non-verbally every minute of the day. The way that parents and teachers respond to these messages has a powerful impact on how children feel in general, and how they perceive themselves. Listening—“shema”— is one way to nourish your child, and to enable your child to feel better about him/ herself.

I also assume that there’s a connection between how kids feel and how they act. That is to say, there is a connection

As parents and teachers, you can optimize the child’s ability to learn by creating a climate conducive to learning. An effective first step to create this climate is to listen to your child. When a child feels heard, listened to, acknowledged and validated, s/he often feels calmer and better about him/herself. S/ he is then able to focus on the task or material at hand.

Genuinely listening to and validating your child’s feelings are the fundamental skills and building blocks of the “Conscious Parenting” approach. The importance of effective listening, in my opinion, should not be underestimated. This skill requires that you— the parent— recognize, accept, acknowledge, and validate your child’s feelings and experiences.

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‘When kids feel right, they’ll behave right.’”

Effective listening is discussed in numerous parenting books and programs. In the How to Talk So Kids will Listen and Listen So Kids will Talk series of books for parents by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, the authors describe this skill in a way that is clear and userfriendly. In advocating this skill of listening to and validating your child’s feelings, I assume that (as discussed in the first part of this series) all of us, and especially our children, have a deep need to feel heard and understood.

there is an optimal level for learning. This optimal state of being both alert and relaxed, occurs when the child feels “right”— that is, when s/he feels comfortable, confident and heard. It is much easier for your child to learn, think, and absorb material when s/he is in this “optimal” state.

between a child’s emotional state and his or her behavior. As the well-known child psychologist and parent expert Dr. Haim Ginott stated, “When kids feel right, they’ll behave right.” Each and every moment, we all experience a continuous flow of different feelings. Feelings are dynamic; they change and shift. My preferred way to help children feel right about themselves is by accepting and validating their present feelings. I notice that, over time, feeling validated is associated with more appropriate behavior. In the realm of chinuch (education), psychologists have discovered that

Take for example a child who feels bothered and upset by something a sibling or classmate has done to him/her. The child’s parent and/or teacher acknowledge and validate the child’s feelings of upset and distress. The child feels heard and is able to “let go” of the negative feelings. In other words, the feeling of being bothered and upset tends to dissipate naturally when the parent or teacher affirms and acknowledges them. It is easier for the child to move on to something else. How exactly do I listen to my child? Effective listening is a skill that requires ongoing awareness and practice. In future articles I will discuss specific tips and ways to nourish your child with this valuable tool. ° Dr. Rafael Richman, Ph.D. works as a psychologist and psychotherapist in private practise in Jerusalem and the Machon Etgar ADHD clinic in Givat Shaul. For more about Dr. Richman see www.drraf.com

| July 2008

Edah Spotlight ruins of synagogue in tripoli

libyan synagogue, tel aviv

The Jews of Libya by David Druce

here is a tradition that in the Messianic era, synagogues and their congregants will fly to Israel. In the spirit of the “ingathering of exiles,” many immigrant communities have rebuilt their Diaspora synagogues on Israeli soil. Some are landmarks, like Chabad’s replicas of its Brooklyn headquarters in K’far Chabad and Jerusalem, and the Belz Hasidic center in Jerusalem which resembles the original sanctuary in Ukraine. Others, such as the many Tunisian synagogues named for the El Ghariba synagogue of Djerba and Indian synagogues named for Bombay’s Sha’arei Rahamim can be found in modest neighborhoods through the country. Jews from the North African nation of Libya are noticeably part of this phenomenon. Libyan Jews are a Diaspora community ancient enough to have a synagogue in Jerusalem from the first century— before the destruction of the Temple. Many Libyan synagogues are simply named “Olei Luv” (Libyan immigrants) or Bet El, for one

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of the main synagogues in Tripoli. Others are named for the “Kodshei Luv”— Libyan Jews murdered in the Holocaust and riots in 1945, 1948 and 1967. A few kilometers from K’far Chabad is Moshav Zeitan, largely settled by Jews from the Libyan city of Zliten. Zliten’s synagogue, the Slat Abu Sharif was a site of pilgrimage for Libyan Jews. Residents of Zeitan built a synagogue for Bushayeff, a saintly Jewish woman. It too became a site for pilgrimage on Lag B’Omer and has songs celebrating its history that have been made into CD’s. Most intriguing of Libyan synagogues is Sha’arei Zedek in Netanya. It is home to the “Zgayer Darna,” a Torah said to have been written in the time of Ezra. It is said that the Torah floated all the way

from Alexandria to the city of Darna without getting wet, and therefore many miracles are attributed to it. On a visit to Netanya, I searched for this synagogue in an unassuming housing project near the coastal highway. In its courtyard sat several women waiting for their children to come out of a nearby kindergarten. Telling them of my visit, one said “Come back for the hillula, a celebration in Ellul.’ Six months may seem like a long wait, but our Torah isn’t going anywhere.” David Druce is a Givat Shmuel-based writer and graduate student who is interested in the study of ethnic groups, their synagogues and their relation to Israeli society.

Parshat Balak

All the King’s Men [and His Donkey] The scene turns humerous as a plan to thwart G-d is foiled by a donkey. by Anne Gordon

orah is not funny.

It may be a valuable guiding light, a meaningful legal code, and a life-enriching gift from G-d, but it is not funny. At least, not until this week’s story of Balak and Bilaam, where we might be remiss in our appreciation of Torah were we to ignore the comedic elements that occur when one of the few confirmed international prophets attempts to curse the Children of Israel. Our parshah opens with an unusual glimpse of the behind-the-scenes workings of the non-Jewish reaction to the Children of Israel. In ways reminiscent

‘‘

Dramatic irony is the name of the game.”

of Pharaoh, King Balak of Moav is afraid of the numbers encroaching on his land. Demonstrating that he has learned from Pharaoh’s folly, however, he seeks out not smoke-and-mirror soothsayers, but a legitimate prophet of G-d, with a distinguished reputation: “he whom you bless is blessed indeed, and he whom you curse is cursed” (Numbers 22:6). Thus, the stage is set. But even the names of the main players are suggestive of the buffoonery that is to follow: Balak ben Tzipor and his trusty prophet Bilaam ben Be’or (who lives in Petor). And “all the king’s men” – the elders of Moav and Midian (both!) are commissioned with the difficult task of convincing Bilaam to do Balak’s bidding against the word of G-d. To his credit, Bilaam refuses. When they offer even greater honor in their presence and their presents, however, G-d permits Bilaam to accompany the dignitaries. Then, no sooner does the prophet depart, when G-d interferes with his progress—by messing with his trusty steed, the famous donkey! Given the terrain, it would be unfair to presume

anything comical in Bilaam’s choice of locomotion. Nonetheless, the culture of myth and fable does not grant that species any degree of dignity—a significant detail in the tableau that follows. Keep in mind Bilaam’s perspective. He believes he has a divine blessing to meet his king and do his bidding. More to the point, he thinks he is riding his donkey down the road just as he (presumably) has done many times before. And the reliable animal appears to go crazy, first making for the fields, then bumping into the cliff-wall (crushing Bilaam’s foot against the wall), and finally mastering its own attempts the refuse the journey by plunking itself down in the middle of the road. Dramatic irony is the name of the game, of course, for the reader knows well that G-d’s angel is playing “chicken” with the donkey and blocking the road. Bilaam, however, sees only a misbehaving stubborn mule. And then—to top it off—the animal speaks! Not since Eden had an animal spoken. Even the donkey seems aware that speech is not its custom: “Am I not the same donkey you ride every day? Have I been in the habit of doing thus…?” (Num. 22:30). “Thus” most naturally refers to the donkey’s refusal to carry its rider, but the double-entendre regarding the animal’s new-found eloquence is inevitable, and captures the humor of a donkey rebuking its prophetmaster well.

ass like to me” (Bevington, Medieval Drama, p. 345). A crass line, certainly— and a rascally medieval actor proclaiming that none was ever so great an ass as himself was surely cause for laughter. But the story of Bilaam is not only—or even necessarily primarily—funny. Rather, the humor sharpens the focus of the narrative: “Bilaam said to Balak, ‘… have I the power to speak freely? I can utter only the word that G-d puts into my mouth.’” The donkey drives the point home to her master, who in turn makes it clear to his king— and the narrative as a whole makes the point to the Children of Israel. We may understand that Balak called his prophet for reputable cursing, without realizing that Bilaam’s reputation does not ride on skill, nor are the benedictions “on demand” for any human king. Bilaam is not Balak’s prophet, but G-d’s, and only G-d’s will determines blessing. Moreover, the famous “goodly tents of Jacob” may have been acknowledged against Bilaam’s own will (according to many commentaries), but his prayer, “May my fate be like theirs” (Num. 23:10) suggests that he has achieved the humility appropriate in one who serves as the conduit for the divine message— a message that is taught first by the donkey. It is not for nothing that the donkey is traditionally regarded not only as comical, but also as humble. If only we were as ready to recognize the humorous foolishness in even attempting to thwart G-d’s intent, perhaps we would also merit the donkey’s prophesied role, as humble steed of the Messiah. ° Anne Gordon holds an M.A. in Judaic Studies and

The Bible scholars of the Middle Ages were aware of the humor as well. Even Christian pageant plays, performed to while away the long summer days in a religiously instructional manner, take note. Thus, the donkey’s rhetorical question becomes “Thou haddest never

a B.A. in History and Philosophy from Harvard University. Before making aliyah, she spent many years learning in the women’s batei midrash of Jerusalem and New York, and teaching in both high school and post-graduate settings. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Jewish Education at Yeshiva University, and teaches at Midreshet HaRova.

| July 2008

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Music by Ben Bresky

Dovid Yehoshua

Makes Waves with New Album & Video What is the story behind the song “Yerushalayim”?

ovid Yehoshua’s name is getting out to the public very quickly. His debut album, released in early June, already has him doing interviews throughout the Israeli media including Arutz Sheva, Reshet Bet, and Radio Kol Chai to name but a few. His video for the single “Yerushalayim” is gaining popularity on the internet. Born in London, England, Dovid moved to Israel about five years ago. He served in a fighting unit station in Gaza as part of the Hesder yeshiva program that combines army service with yeshiva study. The album, entitled “Witnessing Eyes— V’sechezena Einenu,” is catchy and easy to get into. This album has a unique mix of Jewish pop/acoustic guitar-based/light rock and ballads. One track has a reggae feel, another has an electric guitar solo, while other tracks have strings and a horn section. Dovid Yehoshua sings, plays guitar, and composes the music. All the lyrics are in Hebrew and based on Jewish themes with traditional sources such as “Lecha Dodi,” “Shir HaMa’alot” and “Asher Bara.” An exception is “Yerushalayim,” an upbeat tune which mixes English lyrics with the Israeli classic Yerushalayim Shel Zahav (Jerusalem of Gold). I had the chance to talk with the young singer for my show on Israel National Radio, about his music, making aliyah and climbing the Old City walls.

Several years back I was in Yeshivat HaKotel in the Old City. There was a competition between overseas yeshiva programs called “Battle of the Bands.” We used the song “Yerushalayim” as our yeshiva’s entry. Even though it didn’t win, I knew we had to use it in the album. My next stage was to ask the family of Naomi Shemer for permission. As you can imagine, it wasn’t the simplest thing. The family until now had said, “you know this is THE song of Naomi Shemer,” and they didn’t want me to use it. I sent them the music and lyrics and they loved it and gave me permission. I’m very thankful to them. The song talks about the love of Jerusalem, and the desire for it to be together; whole, and one. As it says in the song, “Behold I am a violin for all your songs” the violin being the central instrument in the orchestra. This can be a prayer to G-d that Jerusalem should remain one, and be the center of Eretz Yisrael for Am Yisrael.

The lyrics in the song are “there’s something about this place we love” What is that “something”? If you can put your finger on it, then you tell me. You have to be there to feel it. I don’t think there’s a single person who has been to Jerusalem and hasn’t felt it— Jewish or not. It’s that beauty, that kedushah— the special thing you feel when you’re standing in the place where the Beit Hamikdash once stood and where it will stand again.

Tell us about the video for the song. We wanted something that shows the beauty of Jerusalem. I wanted to show the city as both ancient and modern. It’s not just “Yerushalayim shel Pa’am” (Jerusalem of Yore). The video starts with me standing on the walls of the Old City. Getting up there is quite a story.

Ok, so how did you get up there? Did you have a safety harness?

the highest location possible. Somehow, I found a way up. We’ll keep it a secret how I actually got all the way up there.

Do you have any interesting concert stories? The first time I really performed in front of an audience was when I was about 5 years old. I was at the dedication of a yeshiva in Ma’ale Adumim. There was a band playing and everyone was singing and dancing. Little Dovid Yehoshua got up there on the stage and with his hands in his pockets stood up on the chair and started singing. No one knew why I was there or where I came from, but I just started singing.

What do you suggest to other people interested in moving to Israel? You just have to embrace it. It doesn’t matter if you’re from England or anywhere else. Making aliyah is a challenge. There’s no other place for the Jews. I used to walk down the streets of England without any problems, but unfortunately in the last few years, there have been some anti-Semitic attacks. People would shout at me when they saw a kippah on my head, “Go home, go home.” And there was nothing I could say to them in response because I wasn’t home. But now I’m home, in Israel. This is my land. Our Jerusalem, our Eretz Yisrael. This is what we have been dreaming about and we’re really approaching the redemption. We’re building up the country, working our way to the redemption. It’s an amazing thing to be part of.

For more information on Dovid Yehoshua and the album check out www.dovidyehoshua.com. ° Ben Bresky is a music journalist and host of “The Beat,” a live radio show and podcast on Israel National Radio.com. Arutz Sheva-Israel National Radio has been on the internet since 1995 and offers free podcasts and live streaming audio on Israeli politics, Torah, music and more. To listen to “The Beat” and other programs visit www.IsraelNationalRadio.com.

No, there was nothing holding me there. I’m actually standing there on my own two feet. We went to the Old City and I found | July 2008

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Finance

Relationships

Don’t Ruin Your Kids with Money The cost of charity is priceless. by Douglas Goldstein, cfp

“

I don’t need to work,” a woman told me recently. In the past, perhaps someone would have said that proudly. But today, the implication of having large sums of money and simply blowing it on shopping sprees and vacations seems to indicate a meaningless life. Yet how come so many folks take their most prized possessions—their children—and ruin them by pouring money all over them?

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If you use that money to spoil your kids, to take away their incentive to produce, or to make them insensitive to the needs of others, your money has become a curse rather than a blessing.”

When the solution to your family’s issues starts with buying your child a new bike (and the best bicycle in the store, too), guaranteeing that your children have the finest clothes, or adding more channels to your cable TV, you need to reconsider your approach. There is nothing wrong with being rich. In fact, I spend a great deal of time trying to help people achieve that position. However, if you use that money to spoil your kids—to take away their incentive to produce, or to make them insensitive to the needs of others—your money has become a curse rather than a blessing. If your young ones like movies, you can explain this idea to them in the words of Peter Parker’s Uncle Ben (Parker, better known as Spiderman): “With great power comes great responsibility.” In order to teach the lesson, though, you must exemplify the traits that you want

your children to embody. One woman I work with who receives huge dividends from the family business has dedicated her life to tzedaka. Where did she get the idea? From the time she was young, even before the business prospered, she witnessed her folks donating between 10% and 20% of their income. When I asked her father how they decided to give away so much, he responded, “It’s a mitzvah. Just like I handle my business honestly, don’t eat ham sandwiches, and make kiddush on Shabbat, I also give the required tzedaka.” No wonder his daughter continues to carry the torch.

what you give is what you have

When the Hebron Yeshiva was forced to move to Jerusalem almost a century ago, they raised tens of thousands of dollars from a wealthy New York businessman. A few years later, when the yeshiva called on him again for more, they couldn’t find him. Eventually, they discovered him destitute. The Rosh Yeshiva ordered his fundraiser to give the man $5000, but the man refused to take the money. He explained, “I have lost everything: my company, my money, my life! If you give me back some of the donation I gave you, what will I have? That gift is the only thing that I really have!” Part of your financial plan should include giving charity. It’s good for the world, it teaches your children values, and you can rackup another mitzvah. Build it in as a line-item on your budget and pay it first. Get your children involved with the decision-making and oversight of the organizations to whom you give. Money is a powerful tool that you can use to effect great change. Now that you have the power, you also have the great responsibility. Pass them both on to your children. ° Douglas Goldstein, CFP, is the director of Profile Investment Services. He is a licensed financial professional both in the U.S. and Israel. His book is available in bookstores, on the web, or can be ordered at: www.profile-financial.com

Relationship Challenge How emotional and physiological changes later in life can affect your marriage. by Chana Frumin & David Kaufman

hat used to be called “mid-life crisis” could perhaps be more aptly named “midlife transition.” It occurs in almost everyone—both men and women. In women, the physical changes of menopause are more publicized and pronounced. Anyone entering this stage of life, which usually begins in the mid 40’s, should educate themselves about what to expect, since knowledge often can reduce the difficulties associated with this time.

These changes include almost all aspects of a person’s being— emotional, intellectual and physical. Effects include depression, suicidal feelings, hot and cold flashes, anger, indifference, melancholy, pain, and confusion. For some, mid-life changes go almost unnoticed while for others, the entire fabric of their life is called into question. Both emotional and physiological issues need to be addressed.

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When underlying communication problems exist in relationships, midlife transition can make life impossible to navigate.” continued on page 22 | July 2008

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ETHICS

continued from page 20 Altering diets, increasing exercise and being kind to yourself can be helpful. In each of these examples, the exact path needs to be individualized. What might be helpful for one person could be meaningless or even unhelpful for another. During mid-life transitions, difficulties which might have been ignored or endured now seem impossible. When underlying communication problems exist in relationships, mid-life transition can make life impossible to navigate. Instead of fighting or blaming someone else, mid-life transition can be used as an opportunity to renew or change one’s life direction. This is an excellent time for a couple to commit themselves to a short course in how to speak so the other wants to, and will listen. Therefore, there a variety of options which should be explored in order to comfort and assist a couple who are dealing with mid-life transitions. Check out our guide below for some helpful suggestions. ° Chana Frumin M.S. CNT, is the Director of Jerusalem Narrative Therapy Institute and specializes in Marital and family work and recovery from childhood trauma. David Kaufman is a Narrative and Solution Focused Therapist at the Jerusalem Narrative Therapy Institute. For more info, see www. jerusalemnarrativetherapyinstitute.com

10 Tips for Helping the “Mid-Life Transition” Marriage ° Check your health and make sure everything is okay because life transitions can affect emotions as well. ° Find quality self-help books or a trustworthy therapist to “patch things up” and communicate better. Recognizing a problem does not mean destroying the fabric of your relationship.

Talmud & Environmental Ethics by RABBI CARMI WISEMON

his column will take us on a journey into the unchartered environmental territory of the Talmud. While the Torah is replete with environmental sources which can be found in almost every Parsha, the Talmud has not yet been explored systematically for its insights into environmental ethics. This rich treasury of Jewish environmental wisdom has been hitherto inaccessible to the public.

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Rabbi Chanina was so enamored with the land of Israel that he used to physically repair and maintain the roads in Israel.”

Let’s start with the Gemara that inspired this whole project: Our responsibility for the Land of Israel (Ketubot 112 A). According to Rashi, the Gemara says that Rabbi Chanina was so enamored with the land of Israel that he used to physically repair and maintain the roads

° Re-assess life goals and directions. Don’t throw everything out. Re-adjust how you spend your time by looking at the details of what you do with your time and examining them. ° Communicate with friends about what they have experienced. You will learn from their mistakes and successes. You are not alone, so don’t isolate yourself. ° Exercise is crucial. Physical exercise helps tremendously against any emotional changes, as it reinvigorates you emotionally and physically.

in Israel. Rabbi Chanina was fearful that even the roads of the Holy Land should not be thought of as being of inferior quality. Let’s think of what each of us can do today to maintain the beauty of the Land of Israel. Will G-d ever bring another flood upon the world? (Sotah 11A) Pharaoh said to the Egyptians “let us punish the Jews with water by throwing them into the Nile.” G-d promised that after the flood of Noah, G-d would never bring another flood to the world (and therefore G-d did not punish the Egyptians with a flood as retribution for harming the Jews.) However, Hashem’s words pertained to a global flood, not local floods. Although the whole world will never have another flood, it is possible that one or even several countries could suffer a major flood. Rabbi Carmi Wisemon is the Executive Director of Sviva Israel and the editor of the annual journal, “Hasviva B’halacha Ubmachshava”- The Environment in Jewish Thought and Law. See his blog on the Environment in the Talmud at svivaisrael.wordpress.com

° Take time for things that you enjoy doing. ° Spend quality time with quality friends. ° Exercise your brain. Be willing to learn new ideas. Start a new hobby, start an old hobby. Attend lectures or join a book club. ° Pray. Open communication with G-d can make a tremendous difference. ° Learn what you can change and those things you can not change. Do not spend time worrying about things that you cannot change. | JULY 2008

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PARSHAT PINCHAS

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Joshua as an independent thinker and a model of a national leader. by RAV ALEX ISRAEL

n this week’s parsha, G-d informs Moses of his imminent death. In a spine-chilling invitation he calls Moses to Har HaAvarim– the Mountain of Transition– to die. But Moses responds with a challenge to G-d. Unconcerned by personal matters, his central worry is the Nation and the question of appropriate leadership: And Moses spoke to the Lord, saying, ‘Let G-d, Lord of Spirit of All Flesh, appoint a person over the community... that G-d’s community not be as sheep that have no shepherd.’ And G-d answered Moses, ‘Take Yehoshua son of Nun, a man who has spirit within him...’ (27:15-18)

The Midrash explains G-d’s title as the source “of the spirit of all flesh” as

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Moses, who began life as a shepherd, uses the terminology of the flock to demonstrate that a successor is a critical national need. But what management qualities does Moses perceive to be the most important to guide the Jewish People? Here we turn our attention to the unusual appellation of G-d as “Lord of Spirit of all Flesh.” This rare depiction of G-d needs an explanation. This question becomes more critical as G-d reveals Joshua’s appointment as leader depicting him as “a man who has spirit within him.” With this simple word connection, we can establish a linkage whereby a certain characteristic of G-d is reflected in a quality of Joshua. But what is this “spirit” or “ruach” that animates both G-d and Joshua? And why is this “ruach” critical in choosing the appropriate national leader? Moses said before G-d: ‘You know full well the minds of every one of Your children and You know that no person is the same as another. When I depart from them, I request that You appoint

a person who will tolerate every one of them in their individual uniqueness.’ (Midrash Tanchuma)

‘‘

Our mind and decisions tend to follow that which gives us pleasure and enjoyment in life.” meaning that Hashem knows the inner workings of all humans. G-d, having created us, understands the complexity of human psychology, and the diversity in temperament, personality, and ideology that are the hallmarks of our human nature, our genius, and our failings. According to the Midrash, Moses addresses G-d with this particular title because he feels that the next leader will need this G-d-like trait. National leadership needs an individual who, like G-d, understands people in all the diversity that constitutes humanity, and knows how to acknowledge and manage the entire range. That is the “spirit” which must animate the leader of Israel. However, the Netziv (Rabbi Naftali Tzvi Berlin- HA’AMEK DAVAR) offers a different reading:

The term “flesh” indicates physical bodily pleasures. The “spirit” of all people is drawn towards their own comfort and gratification.

The Netziv claims that “spirit” and “flesh” frequently serve the same self-interest. Our mind and decisions tend to follow that which gives us pleasure and enjoyment in life. Spirit, or motivation principles, are frequently dominated by “flesh” self gratification. That is why it is difficult to lead a nation! G-d created and hence understands the pitfalls of human nature. Moses is interested in a leader whose decisions are free of personal motivation; free of self–interest. And hence G-d chooses (27:18):

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Leadership Qualities

Joshua, a man whose spirit is within him: his spirit. i.e. he is independently minded and not swayed or diverted by self-centred desires or other pressures. (Netziv on 27:18)

Joshua has a self-sufficient “spirit.” He is a principled, resolute individual driven by integrity and the interests of the nation. He is not to be swayed by the crowds, nor by life’s luxuries. We have raised two options. Joshua’s “spirit” might be his empathy, his tolerance, and his “people’s touch.” Alternatively his resolute independence of mind (demonstrated clearly in the episode of the spies,) and his personal integrity may be the critical factor in his appointment. We would do well if our leaders would view these classic Jewish leadership traits as their guiding light so that they may serve their nation faithfully. ° Rav Alex Israel teaches Tanach at Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, and is Director of Continuing Education at Pardes.

| JULY 2008

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In Focus

The Search for Meaning in Tel Aviv

Strengthening Jewish Identity & the Right to Heritage They would never dream of stepping into a traditional yeshiva; their relationship with the Rabbanut is one of resentment...yet secular Tel Avivians are exploring Judaism against all odds. by Yehudit Singer

On 1 Mondays and Thursdays every week, the former movie theater on the corner of Rechov Gordon and Ben Yehuda turns into a Goa-style social hall. Like most Tel Avivians at night, a diverse group of young professionalsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; lawyers, bankers, designers, social workers and musiciansâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; come to listen to music, have some refreshments and mingle. In this case, however, what happens during the soiree differs from a typical Tel Aviv evening: the group breaks into classes on the meaning of life according to Jewish tradition.

| July 2008

In Focus

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In Focus

Today’s Tel Aviv may have gone through extreme cultural changes as time passed, but within this cosmopolitan city rests some fertile planting ground for a renewal of Jewish identity and Torah study.

ust up the road, on Rechov Bogroshov and the corner of Rechov Tzfat, another group takes their seats. Dressed in a medley of tank tops, shorts, t-shirts and suits, these adults learn the ideas of Rav Kook b’chavruta (learning partners). Last week, they listened to a lecture from a former resident of Gush Katif who was evacuated from his home two years ago. This week, they study Parshat HaShavua (the weekly Torah portion) and the keys to spirituality. Today’s version of Tel Aviv is an urban metropolis that proudly distinguishes itself from the “religious” culture more befitting to Jerusalem or Tzfat. It typifies the “other face” of Israeli culture: largely secular, scantily-clad, spending Friday nights living it up in the thriving nightlife, eating out in blatantly treif restaurants and going to synagogue maybe once a year for Yom Kippur (for the more traditional out there.) However, Tel Aviv culture was not always like this. In the 1930’s and ‘40’s, the Great Synagogue on Allenby Street opened its doors to hundreds of “secular” Israelis. At that time, going to Friday night services felt natural to many people, whether or not they were wearing a kippah. Many of them went to traditional service on Friday nights at the synagogue and then participated in social circles that discussed traditional liturgy with the ideas of cultural Zionist thinkers, such as Achad Ha-Am and Haim Nachman Bialik.

Rabbi Yehuda Maizlik, director of “Beit Yehudi” surmises that there are actually thousands of “hidden” religious people in Tel Aviv. Yet beyond those who actively observe Jewish tradition, are thousands more secular Israelis who wish to explore their own heritage, but lack a familiarity with the basics of Jewish heritage and customs. They are only connected with the religious “establishment” insofar as they resent the rabbis for “religious coersion” in the State of Israel. They would never dream of stepping into a traditional yeshiva. However they are curious, and rightly feel deserving of an education about a heritage and religion that is just as much theirs as it is the Rabbinate’s. As a result, new venues of learning have developed within the last two decades that specifically aim to serve this population. Take for example, Beit Yehudi. Under the auspices of the Arachim network, Beit Yehudi is located in a large, subterrain building that used to be a movie theater. A large, colorful hall decorated in the style of India welcomes groups twice a week. The staff— mostly from the Haredi camp— offers seminars to men and women on topics such as the meaning of life, self development, relationships, self actualization and more. Most of the classes are mixed (men and women together), but the ones on more intimate subjects are taught separately. The fact that the members of the staff

‘‘

We are so busy protecting Yehuda & Shomron...but what about the hilonim? The dati-leumi community doesn’t know how to communicate with secular people”

are largely Haredi is not so significant to Maizlik. Presumably, making these people religious would be the end-goal. However, Rav Maizlik gently refutes this “misconception.” He asserts that the goals are to create a community in Tel Aviv and to strengthen Jewish identity. “There is no one target goal [in terms of religious observance],” he says. “We focus on the individual— where he or she is in life; what their aspirations are— and so we offer one-on-one meetings and small group discussions.” Rosh Yehudi, on the other hand, offers a different platform. The “Self Awareness Center,” as the sign proclaims, openly states that his mission is to “bring them back to t’shuva, repentance.” Rosh Yehudi’s director, Israel Zeira says, “Tel Aviv is a city of lonely people. They aren’t happy; they are unfulfilled. The only way they will be happy is by being connected to Hashem.” Unlike most other kiruv or outreach organizations, Rosh Yehudi has a dati-leumi, religiousZionist approach. Established a little over ten years ago, Zeira realized that there was a severe lack in outreach activity in the Religious-Zionist camp. “We are so busy protecting Yehuda and Shomron (Judah and Samaria)...but what about the hilonim (the secular Jews)? The datileumi community doesn’t know how to communicate with secular people.” And so on these grounds, he opened Rosh Yehudi, where the staff from the datileumi community teaches and mentors. The mentors are trained, and encouraged to interact with the students despite their religious differences. Shabbatonim for participants take place in various yishuvim, and they learn about ideas based on Rav Kook’s philosophy, such as Torat Eretz Yisrael— Torah that is strongly connected to the Land of Israel. They sponsor branches of day-care centers for secular parents, and train their staff to communicate effectively with secular people. Zeira says, “We live with them, work with them, but we don’t deal with outreach. The dati community sees itself as a bridge between both worlds, yet we don’t know exactly where we stand.” Rosh Yehudi is open and direct about their agenda: to influence the students to observe Torah and mitzvot. He recounts a story of a woman who came to the center a few years ago. She had been learning Jewish texts in various venues | July 2008

IN FOCUS

Beit Yehudi, has classes, tapes, and publications on personal-growth, soulsearching, introspection, successful marriages, and the like. These subjects are within the framework of Torah, but in a less overt way. Based on the mentors, the expectation is to take on an observant lifestyle, but at a slow pace that is tailored to each individual.

Maizlik brings the example of a married man in his 30’s who came to Beit Yehudi last month. He was a successful entrepreneur in hi-tech and said he wanted to start wearing a kippah and keeping kosher at home. His wife was not interested. The staff actually dissuaded him from taking on both initiatives, and explained that changes should be done slowly and over time— and should be accompanied by study. “We want to strengthen families, not break them up,” says Maizlik.

oth Rosh Yehudi and Beit Yehudi started off as small centers. Yossi Vallis, Director General of Arachim, is the man behind-the-scenes at Beit Yehudi. It is he who turned Beit Yehudi “from a kiosk,” as Maizlik describes it, into an international network of centers that spans Israel, North America, and Europe. In addition, both Rosh Yehudi and Beit Yehudi have several branches in Israeli “hot-spots” in India. Both venues describe their demographic similarly: successful, educated professionals between the ages of 25 and 50. “They seem to have everything they could want, but they are stuck…stuck in a life of dissatisfaction and emptiness,” says Zeira. Maizlik explains that one of the

greatest challenges for him and his staff is that they don’t know where to start the conversation. “They don’t even know what questions to ask, so we don’t know where to begin,” he says. To combat this challenge for the future, Beit Yehudi actually initiated educational programs with some of the secular schools in the North Tel Aviv area. “There are schoolchildren who have never seen a Sefer Torah. How can we expect them as adults, to ask questions, when they don’t even have the basics?” Zeira, on the other hand, prefers to take an intellectual approach. He doesn’t

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IN FOCUS

...‫ופרצת‬

continued from page 29 believe that working in the schools is effective in any way. “I don’t want to deal with Torah in dribbles. You can send the best educator to walk into a school and give the most amazing lecture. You can give these kids a wonderful Shabbat experience, but it doesn’t do anything. Everyone goes back home, turns on the internet and it all goes away….” Rosh Yehudi, aside from their nursery school, only deals with people who are more independent “and able to think on their own.”

ince Tel Aviv has such a dynamic mix of culture, technology, media, international trading and business, Jewish learning initiatives must reflect such an atmosphere. After all, in a place with choices galore, everyone wants the freedom to explore texts without the pressure of expectations about lifestyle-change. For this reason, the Secular Yeshiva is revolutionary. The program, established by the BINA Center for Jewish Identity and Hebrew Culture, specifically provides a forum of Torah-text study in a pressure-free environment. Students are not expected to adopt any level of halachic observance, except for one Jewish precept: a devotion to tikkun olam. Their dedication towards learning may not manifest in the same ways as those at Aish HaTorah or Beit Yehudi, but the principle that Torahstudy modifies our behavior remains the same. Study cannot be conducted in a vacuum; it must lead to commitment and action. In this case, action comes in the form of social justice like conducting after-school programs in economically-disadvantaged

‫צפונה‬ ‫קדמה‬

‫ימה‬ areas in Southern Tel Aviv. For a good portion of the students, participating in the Yeshiva’s programs has given them their first exposure to marking any of the Jewish holidays in any significant way. The programs discussed are just three examples of the initiatives going on in Tel Aviv. The Lubavitch movement hosts the Tel Aviv version of the ubiquitous Chabad House, and offers information stands on the streets, while the emissaries of the Breslover Hasidim gain attention through music and dance. The current situation of the Great Synagogue on Allenby St. mirrors the situation of many synagogues in the Diaspora: it only sees the masses twice a year, aside from lifecycle events. The good news is that in a city where creativity flourishes, the same inspiration is fueling a renewed Jewish spirit. It may be that the ideology of secular Zionism succeeded in disconnecting thousands of Israelis, but the new generation is curious and proactive about discovering what was distant for so long. Especially given the fact that many people within the State of Israel are selfdubbed hilonim, we must ask ourselves whether we wish to have thousands of Jews becoming more and more alienated from their Jewish identities, or whether we can find ways to engage them in dialogue. °

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Fast of Tammuz

The Seventeenth of Tammuz

Fast Now, Feast In the Future

by Rabbi Efraim Sprecher

our days out of the year Jews fast and mourn, commemorating different historical events of the destruction of the Holy Temple. The 17th day of Tammuz is one of the four days, and it begins a three week period of limited mourning that climaxes with “Tisha B’Av,” the nineth of Av— the day when the Temple was destroyed. These four days of fasting are found in the book of the prophet Zechariah: The four fasts will become days of joy and happiness, holidays of redemption, and feasts for the House of Judah (Zechariah 8:19).

Consistent with Judaism’s optimism, the biblical references about the four days— including Tisha B’Av—are not cited as directives to fast and mourn. Instead, they are stated in a positive context, looking to the Messianic future, when these four fast days will become days

‘‘

The Talmud states that the Jews returning from exile and the flourishing of the Land of Israel are the key signs for the beginning of the Redemption.” of celebration. Thus, the seventeenth of Tammuz and the ninth of Av were destined to be part of our religious tradition, but not as a days of eternal mourning. Only in the times of Messiah will these days of mourning become become permanent days of joy.

What are the signs of the approaching Y’mei HaMashiach—the days of the Messiah? The Talmud states that the Jews returning from exile and the flourishing of the Land of Israel are the key signs for the beginning of the Redemption:

the ninth of Av, then we will be feasting and celebrating on those days, instead of mourning and fasting. ° Rabbi Efraim Sprecher is the Dean of Students at the Diaspora Yeshiva in Jerusalem.

There is no more clear sign of the end of days (Messianic redemption) than when the Land of Israel will give its produce abundantly (Bavli Sanhedrin 98B).

Rashi’s comments on this Talmudic statement: “When the land turns green with vegetation, the end of the exile is near.” For close to 2,000 years, our land rejected all would-be conquerors and remained desolate. Mark Twain remarked on his tour of the Holy Land in the 1800’s that he never saw such a barren, desolate place on the face of the earth. The Sifra 26 explains that the Torah’s curse of the land during our long exile; “I will make the land desolate” is a blessing in disguise (Parshat Bechukotai). Therefore, the flourishing green of Israel is a clear signal that G-d’s decree of “desolation” for the land is over and the Redemption is near. The Land of Israel had to go into hibernation waiting for us— her children— to return from exile.

The prophet Jeremiah saw the coming Redemption of the Messianic Era and its celebration as being an even greater event than the Exodus from Egypt. He states: “days are coming, says Hashem, when it will no longer be said, ‘as Hashem lives, Who took Israel out of Egypt,’ rather ‘As Hashem lives, Who took Israel out from all the lands where Hashem dispersed them’” (Jeremiah 16:14).

Presently, we are in the dawn of the Messianic Era. If Messiah should arrive before the Seventeenth of Tammuz and | July 2008

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Community Profile

Ganei Tikvah Ecologically-friendly, Educationally-savvy

Sculpture in Genei Tikvah

by Ilene Bloch-Levy

here can you find a yishuv in the heart of the city that is verdant, ecologically-friendly, and educationally-savvy with a growing, active religious population?

Welcome to Ganei Tikvah— literally translated as “The Gardens of Hope.” Couched between Savyon on the south, Kiryat Ono on the east and Petah Tikvah on the north, Ganei Tikvah was established in 1949 as an extension of Petah Tikvah (ergo the name Tikvah in its name). It became an independent local council four years later, having succeeded in absorbing thousands of new immigrants from Romania, Poland, Yemen and Morocco in such a short time. Yismach Moshe, an ultra-orthodox community within Ganei Tikvah, was established in 1962 by the Admor (abbreviation for “our Master, Teacher and Rabbi”) of Sassov, so early on, the town’s multi-cultural, multi-religious residents were living harmoniously together. This tolerant environment continues to this day, where a full 25% of the 13,500 residents are religious. Aesthetics Ganei Tikvah has often been overshadowed by its larger neighbors,

‘‘

The main boulevard of this beautiful town is decorated with sculptures and colorful, hand-painted electrical and phone boxes that dot many of the street corners.” 34

which is why for many years, its development and growth went quietly unmarked. Recently, however, the yishuv has expanded its property line by 1000 dunams, invested heavily in its infrastructure and has upgraded its cultural, educational, and social services. The town’s heavy efforts brought in its wake tremendous governmental recognition. Ganei Tikvah has been the recipient of the National Award for Excellence in Education and the National Award for Water Conservation. It is also the first urban town to be awarded for town-beautification (winner for five consecutive years), and for design and architecture on the Park of Peace and Love. Ecologically-conscious, Ganei Tikvah will soon be the first town to have a totally green housing development within its confines. The main boulevard of this beautiful town is decorated with sculptures and colorful, hand-painted electrical and phone boxes that dot many of the street corners. Religious Life Religious life in Ganei Tikvah is quite rich and varied. There are shiurim every day of the week, numerous religious nurseries, a religious public school, Talmud Torah, Beit Yaakov, an active Bnei Akiva branch that also hosts frequent lectures and shiurim, dozens

of synagogues reflecting the diverse ethnic backgrounds of the residents, and an active Chabad presence. Because of the local council’s great sensitivity to the needs of the religious sector, each year the council takes the needs of the religious community into consideration when planning the town’s after-school enrichment program. Anglos It is true that English speakers are not found in droves here like they are in some of Israel’s other towns and cities, but they do constitute around 5% of the total population and they are very much a part of the town’s life. Ganei Tikvah is a few minutes from Tel Aviv, yet its verdant surroundings, vibrant religious lifestyle, and bedroomlike community feel can easily let you forget that you are actually living in the center of the country and a short distance from the heart of the country’s largest business district. ° Community Research Profile has been contributed through the Kehillot Tehilla Communities department. www.kehillottehilla.com

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37 35

Parshat Matot

Determine-nation The dedication the tribes show towards the Land of Israel teaches us a lesson about staying united. by Rav Aaron Liebowitz

arshat Matot contains a short story which many find disturbing. As we prepare to enter into the Land of Israel, the tribes of Reuven and Gad request not to cross the Jordan. They prefer the other side, a land fit for their large flocks. The Land of Israel is finally within reach, and they prefer not to go? The story is heavy with themes especially familiar to the modern reader: that Jews remain in the Diaspora for reasons of parnasa while those who do live in Israel choose to live in areas of safety and convenience.

‘‘

Their understanding of mutual responsibility, and their faith in the inheritance of the land is what made it possible to redefine their vision...” Interestingly, Moshe does not raise any objection to Reuven and Gad’s choice of land. He asks them, “will your brothers go to war and you dwell here?” Moshe’s objection is not focused on where they choose to live, so he responds positively to their second proposal. Once they agree to participate in wars for the land, he accedes their petition. Moshe articulates his true concern when he compares these tribes to the spies who, forty years before, made their fatal report delaying the nation’s entry into the Land of Israel. Using a rare word “lehani” (to sway), he asks the renegade tribes why they would “sway” the hearts of the people like

the spies. He is concerned about the effect this will have on the people who had been discouraged from entering the Land once before. Moshe then uses a similar word—“vayaniem.” Spelled with the letter ayin rather than alef, this word sounds the same when either letter is used. However, in this case, it means “to wander.” G-d caused the Children of Israel to wander the wilderness for forty years because they had allowed their hearts to be swayed; a fitting response— our meandering path a metaphor for our meandering hearts. And this is where the two tribes rise to the occasion and completely turn the conversation on its head. Not only do they pledge to fight, but they commit to being on the front lines. We all know what that means in warfare. Amazingly, they even leave their families and possessions behind, thus making the strong statement: the Land belongs to us, and it will open itself up to us in the smoothest way. They kissed their loved-ones goodbye, knowing they would return...and sure enough, the book of Joshua records only one Israeli defeat and hardly any casualties.

of Menasheh into the deal. Their understanding of mutual responsibility, and their faith in the inheritance of the land is what made it possible to redefine their vision to include the other side, while still maintaining their identity as one undivided nation. The story is framed for us in a surprising way. The choice the tribes make is most significant in terms of the overall impact it would have on the nation. Perhaps it is only when the impact is significantly positive that legitimacy can be granted. I wonder what this might mean in terms of our modern day versions of this same determination. ° Rav Aaron is the Rabbi at Kol Rina, in Nachlaot, Yerushalayim. He also heads Sulam Yaakov, a part time beit midrash for community leadership development. He can be contacted at ravaaron@gmail.com.

Not only do they keep their promise to Moshe, but these tribes become an inspiration for the entire people when they lead them to battle. They are a key element needed to overcome the fears instilled in the others by the spies. They return home to the other side of the Jordan having demonstrated a definitive connection between the Jewish people and the Land. Perhaps that is how they became a bridge over the Jordan, and why Moshe adds half of the tribe | July 2008

COMEDY BASEMENT Jerusalem’s 1st Comedy Club

Your choice for birthdays, anniversaries and a good night out!

Moshe Kasher & Danny Cohen Tel Aviv- July 16 Jerusalem- July 19

American Comedians LEARN TO BE FUNNY THIS SUMMER

w/ instructor David Kilimnick

English Stand-Up

Every Thursday & Saturday Night Monday Night (English) open mic

Moshe Kasher

American Comedians

All Ages!

02-624-3218

Danny Cohen Tel Aviv: July 16 Jerusalem: July 19

34 Ben Yehuda (corner of King George) down the stairs near the Mashbir

(see website for schedule)

www.israelcomedy.com

David Kilimnick JERUSALEM’S COMEDIAN

available for

Tour Groups & Private Parties for all ages creator of the Aliyah Monologues Uncle D Find Me a Wife Frum From Birth 8:30pm English stand-up starring David (Jerusalem Comedy Show every other week)

050-875-5688 www.shiurtimes.com

Co Le (Al Mo lim

Travel

Tel Aviv: Where East meets West by Rabbi Mordechai Weiss

ince the early years of the twentieth century, Tel Aviv has developed into a bustling metropolis, en par with other international cosmopolitan cities. The fusion of a rich, colorful Mediterranean culture (beach, falafel, and darbuka-spiced Mizrachi music), with the chic-ness of contemporary western culture (boutiques, art houses, Fendi and Opera) gives Tel Aviv a unique flair that you must see to believe. Especially now that the kids are off from school, the summer is one of the best times to see and feel Tel Aviv for all it is.

There are few people that know that Tel Aviv is the first allJewish city in modern times. Originally named “Ahuzat Bayit,” it was founded by sixty families in 1909 as a Jewish neighborhood near Jaffa. In 1910, the name was changed to Tel Aviv, meaning “Spring Hill.” The name was taken from the book of Ezekiel, “And I came to the exiles at Tel Aviv…” (3:15), and from a reference in Herzl’s novel Altneuland, in which he foresaw the future Jewish state as a socialist utopia. In 1909, the founders of Tel Aviv lived in the first neighborhood, called Ahuzat Bayit. They aspired to found the most modern city in the world. Keep in mind that there were only sixty families to carry out this enterprise. At the time, Jews were not allowed to buy land from the Ottoman Empire, but after three years they managed to buy forty acres of sand dunes just north of Jaffa. Although they discussed the idea in 1906, they only started to build it in 1909. I will touch upon some of the highlights for those who wish to see the more modest elements of the city. The Independence Hall Museum, located on Rothschild Street, may be a very plain

building, but holds huge significance in the history of Israel. Originally, the location was home of Meir and Zina Dizengoff, first mayor of Tel Aviv. At 4pm on May 14th, 1948 in the main hall of this building, eight hours before the British mandate over the region was due to end, David Ben Gurion made the proclamation of Israel’s independence. Visitors to the museum can actually see the main hall where independence was declared and the document was signed. Once inside the hall, one hears a recording of Ben-Gurion reading the Charter for the new State. A short film also shows the history of the founding of Israel to the present time. The building also houses the Beit Ha’Tanach, or the Bible Museum. Opening Hours are Sunday-Friday 9 a.m.-2 p.m. 16 Rothschild Blvd., Tel Aviv (03) 510-

the Israel’s coast. From Jaffa port, the prophet Jonah set sail for Tarshish, running away when G-d commanded him to preach in the wicked city of Nineveh. King Hiram of Tyre sent wood for the First Temple on a raft to Jaffa, and when wood was needed for the Second Temple it, too, arrived by way of Jaffa. The old city of Jaffa is filled with much Jewish history. If you came for bargain-hunting, you came to the right place; you can weave your way through a mixed array of treasures and junk at Shuk ha’Pish-Peshim (Jaffa flea market) located east of the clock tower at the foot of Old Jaffa. Merchandise varies, but copper, brass, old Persian tiles, and jewelry are always to be found, as well as Judaica items, old family photo albums, and tons of used jeans and mildewed clothing from India.

6426, (03) 5173942. Visitors to Tel Aviv would be remiss without experiencing the open-air markets. Nachalat Binyamin— the Arts & Crafts Fair—hosts over 220 artists, selling everything from paintings to jewelry made from silverware. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to a gift, need one for your hosts in Israel or friends back home, this is great place to shop. Prices are extremely reasonable and the variety is such that there is literally ‘something for everyone’. The market at Nachalat Benyamin is held on Tuesday and Friday – from 10:00 AM – to 5:00 PM, year round. Adjacent to Nachalat Binyamin is the Shuk Ha’Carmel (the Carmel Market), located in the middle of the Yemenite Quarter of Tel Aviv. If second-hand clothing and shoes are your thing, look out for fashions reminiscent of the 1980s. Further along the market towards the bus station is the epicentre of HaCarmel, the food market. And as long as we are in Tel Aviv, we might as well make a stop in Jaffa. Jaffa is the oldest and perhaps most famous of the ports along

Bargaining is the order of the day so feel free to indulge in lengthy haggling. Even if there is a little language problem, you can get a lot understood with your hands. It’s great fun even if you don’t buy anything. From a stroll on the Tayelet (the Promenade), to the Bauhaus “White City” architecture; from the Opera House, myriad of museums and theaters to the most mouthwatering ice cream in Israel, Tel Aviv definitely has a lot to offer. It may be humid, but at least you can enjoy the breezy shore of the Mediterranean while sipping a fresh fruit smoothie. Fortunately, the museums are air-conditioned and there’s plenty to do for the kids. ° Rabbi Mordechai Weiss is a resident of Mitzpeh Yericho and a licensed tour guide. He can be contacted at rabbiguide@gmail.com

| July 2008

PERSPECTIVES vitality are dependent upon its ability to settle all areas within its borders. They have therefore taken on an active role in cultivating this strategic area of the country and wish to turn the image of the Negev as “frontier” to a place where the quality of life and standard of living is en par with the rest of the country. The Initiative Center of the Negev (ICN) is also taking action to develop the economic prosperity of the region. A non-profit organization founded by leading business executives, the ICN focuses on guiding new entrepreneurs and assisting small and medium-size businesses in the Negev. The ICN established the first technological incubator in Israel, founded and supports over 30 startups in the Negev and has creative over 300 jobs. In addition, ICN is slated to launch the “Entrepreneurial Kibbutz,” which will essentially attract talented and motivated entrepreneurs to establish more startups in the area. The concept will turn the area into a mini-Silicon Valley, where innovation and ideas are the name of the game. Residents will enjoy a high standard of living without worrying about any sort of long commute to work: the kibbutz will host both a residential and

FROM:

commercial development area. Such an infrastructure will create job opportunities and economic sustainability for its residents. ICN will also offer a pilot program for students in the area who are interested in learning how to

‘‘

Israel’s longterm security and economic vitality are dependent upon its ability to settle all areas within its borders. establish their own business initiatives. Cultivating professional relationships with these students and offering such skill-building sessions will also encourage these fresh minds to consider making their lives in the Negev. Beyond the sheer physical and envisioned demographic expansion of the area, are impressive ecological advance-

ments. On an academic level, Ben Gurion University has become internationally renowned for its research achievements. The Institute of Desert Research, for example, is acclaimed for its research on the desert environment, dry lands agriculture and solar energy. In addition, the university’s Solar Energy Research Center is testing and demonstrating a variety of solar-powered thermal technologies. Because Israel has almost no natural fuel sources except for its abundant sunshine, it has become a world pioneer in the use of solar energy. The Negev has also spearheaded innovative techniques for water management, waste management (Dudaim, an economically-sound waste disposal site, for example) and sustainable development in eco-friendly villages. Overall, the Negev is on its way to stardom. What was once a vast desolate mass of land with rolling hills of sand and sun is now emerging into the global economic market. With this “think global, act local” mentality from leaders, visionaries and pioneers alike, we are bound to see the Negev blossom into an incredible asset to Israel. Mark Twain, get ready to roll over in your grave. The Zionists are at it again. °

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23 39

Op-Ed

Asylum or Death How should Israel respond to an ambiguous moral situation? by Mollie Gerver

“

Never Again.” These are very simple, powerful words. But they are not very practical for someone who is fleeing. Again. Israel, in 1951, was an initiator of the Geneva Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. This requires all nations not to deport refugees back to countries where their lives are at risk because of their ethnicity, religion, and/ or gender. Egypt has been imprisoning and deporting asylum-seekers (back) to Sudan for years. There are numerous cases of murder and rape in Egypt of African refugees that the Egyptian police have no interest in investigating. In 2005, when security forces fired-upon and killed dozens of African refugees sitting in a hunger strike outside United Nations offices in Cairo, asylum-seekers began crossing the border into Israel, where they now number approximately 7,500. One refugee we interviewed in Jerusalem from South Sudan, where an estimated two million civilians were killed in a civil war that lasted over twenty years, was kidnapped and enslaved by the North Sudanese military, and managed to

escape being sent to fight against Darfur. A woman we interviewed in Tel Aviv was gang-raped in Sudan in her home by government security forces. We also interviewed a woman from Congo, where an estimated four million have been killed since 1998. These three interviewees, according to Prime Minister Olmert, are not refugees. “There are only 498 refugees in Israel and not one more,” stated Olmert in a Knesset speech this past year. The latest government plan is to fire in the direction of “infiltrators” attempting to cross the border, and to imprison and deport all except the 498 who Olmert believes are refugees. During the Holocaust, Britain limited the number of Jews into Mandate-Palestine because, officials claimed, there were not physically enough square kilometers or jobs to accept more refugees. Nor did she accept Jewish refugees into Britain itself out of fear that it would open a floodgate for more refugees, possibly even for Nazi spies, while her own security was being hurt from German bombing. “Unemployment,” “Sderot,” “Iran,” “terrorism”—they are problems that make Israel morally justified in deporting refugees, we are told by Members of Knesset. “Why should Israel accept Sudanese and other African refugees when Palestinians have not received the right of return?” we are asked by some

MKs. Some argue that Israel should accept no refugees until the UN divides refugee allocation between nations—as if the refugees should pay the price with their lives for an unresponsive United Nations. For the past few months, students and activists in Jerusalem have joined together to find apartments and jobs for Sudanese families living in Ktziot Prison. This is difficult, as apartment owners will not rely on refugee signatures alone, even if they have a job and regular salary. If volunteers and NGOs fail to provide some of these necessities, asylum-seekers risk being sent to prison. Prison: where refugees have no access to phones, and where family members are separated...this costs tax payers roughly 200 NIS a day per inmate. If volunteers, who cannot even visit these inmates do not find apartments, the money for rent,

‘‘

Why should Israel accept Sudanese and other African refugees when Palastinians have not received the right of return?”

| July 2008

Op-Ed pictured:

Asylum-seekers at the border with Egypt

or jobs, the government will continue to invest an estimated 73 million shekels a year for prison service—money, ironically, that could pay apartment rent, help find jobs, food, and the necessities needed for their release. Israel cannot take in all the refugees of Africa, or even all the African refugees in Egypt—clearly, a compromise must be found between our moral obligation to those who will likely be killed without asylum, and our moral obligation to keeping a Jewish state— a Jewish state that itself assures the quick absorption of Jewish refugees who face anti-Semitism. However, the Geneva Convention does not demand granting citizenship to asylum-seekers; it only demands that those asylum-seekers who can prove they are refugees be given temporary asylum. Even if Israel were to accept as many as 50,000 refugees for citizenship (going beyond its basic responsibilities under

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Geneva), they would make up no more than one-half percent of the population. Many refugees we have interviewed wish to build a home in Darfur, South Sudan, Liberia, Eritrea, and other states— a home where they can live freely and not be at risk because of their heritage. Refugees do not forget where they have come from. The Dinka language, spoken by many from South Sudan, and Fur, the language of Darfur, is thousands of years old; with roots in South Sudan and Darfur long before Arabic became the dominant language in North Sudan. Outside of a protest for refugees in front of the Knesset, a few Israelis were complaining about the lack of responsibility on the side of their government. One of the refugees overheard us and said, “You are so lucky to have a government that cares about you. This is the first time I have been in

a country where the government cares about its own citizens.” The freedom that some refugees have witnessed in Israel strengthens their resolve to return home and uphold this same liberty— liberty that we believed was of universal importance in 1951, and which we cannot forget after sixty years of democratic, Jewish statehood. For more information on how to help asylum seekers in Israel, call Mollie at 050-324-1522 or Nir at 050-668-0941 or e-mail Mollieg85@gmail.com. ° Mollie Gerver heads the student group Activists for Asylum (‫)פעילים למען פליטים‬. She made Aliyah in 2000 from Boston, Massachusetts, and served in the Foreign Relations Unit during her army service. She is studying for a BA in Political Science at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, where she works at the Truman Institute and is active in the Hebrew University Debating Society.

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| July 2008

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needs renovation, 6th floor, elevator and great view. Only NIS 920,000. Contact Hadar 050-756-8666. RE/MAX Vision Exclusive 02673-1661 www.remax-capital.com.

ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, Emma 052370-5423.

4 + 1 (135 sq.m.) rooms apartment, Shabbat elevators, beautiful view, Storageroom and parking. Keys at Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-5618101. Simone. GREEK COLONY Renovated penthouse on very high standard on a quiet street. 5 rooms, 170 sqm. 2 floors, in Arab-style house, high ceilings. Possibility to expand. $1,500,000. (#22) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-2-566-7664. HAR HOMA Magnificent penthouse 5 rooms, private elevator, terraces, beautiful view, storageroom, parking. Hamishkenote 054-5220453 Mikey. Near Haddassah Ein Kerem & Malcha Shopping Center, luxurious 8-room villa on three levels, huge private garden with trees, patio, parking garage. Exclusive,

Luxury new apartment in Holyland, 7 rooms (220 sq.m.) on one level + balcony overlooking view, 2 storage-rooms and 3 covered parking. Exclusive to Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-561-8101.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

holyland: 5- room apartment, furnished and designed, 150 sqm, terrace and a little pool, amazing view, storage and parking, 3,800,000 nis. Rita 054-546-4082. Well-lit and new 4.5 rooms (originally 5 rooms), balcony overlooking amazing view of Jerusalem, 2 covered parking & storageroom. Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-5618101, Uri.

054-306-0109

Terraced home, 4 rooms (120 sqm), option to expand another 30 sqm. Great location! Asking 1,500,000 NIS (approx. $440,000). Contact Hadar 050-756-8666. RE/MAX Vision Exclusive 02-673-1661 www.remax-capital.com. />Â?LÂ&#x2C6;iÂ&#x2026;

GERMAN COLONY Magnificent Duplex, 220 square meters, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, sukkah balcony, MUST SEE, $1,600,000. Contact Yona (054-2245121) RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www. remax-capital.com.

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Near Emek Refaim, 3 rooms, 2nd floor, renovated, $500,000. Contact Yona (054224-5121) RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remax-capital.com.

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For Rent or for Sale! Detached private house, 280 sq.m. built + 400 sq.m. garden, subject to conversation!!! Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-561-8101, Simone.

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,EADERS OF ,UXURY 2EAL %STATE IN *ERUSALEM

ce`hiddidd www.shiurtimes.com

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X Y ALEX oup X.il OSKY Y ALEX oup OSKY .il CLASSIFIEDS

t 3&"- &4T"5& t #6: t 4"-& t 3&/5

183 sqm., ut, alarm, watering

Mikael

0109

Yehuda 10, Baka

ate osky.co.il www.azran.co.il

183 sqm., ut, alarm, watering

02-673-7725 Group TPMM FrFF

e-mail: mikaelaz@bezeqint.net

i-Detached 4Cottage, 183 sqm., room apartment. Private parking. Storage room. Elevator. Porch and gym. ooms, A/C throughout, alarm, 0109 Oshrit: 054-544-1911. Colony: 02-5611611. ded rear patio, trees, watering KATAMON Price: 1,400,000nis. Exclusive! 4 room apartment on Yehuda Hanasi St. possibility to build on the roof. Chana: 052-3827037. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colonyâ&#x20AC;?: 02-5611611.

054-306-0109

KIRYAT MOSHE Quiet street, 4 rooms, 2nd floor, sukkah, renovated. Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02561-8101. KIRYAT SHMUEL Rare Find! HaPalmach, 4 rooms, (approx. 110 sq.m.), exquisitely high standard of renovation, 3rd floor, elevator, balcony with fantastic view, air-conditioned, parking. Exclusive: ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, Danielle: 050-495-1234. Shimoni St. in a nice stone building, 3.5 as 4 rooms apartment, well-lit and quiet, overlooking beautiful view. Exclusive to Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-561-8101.

KIRIAT YOVEL Borochov St. 7 room Duplex Divided in to 3 and 4 room apartments. Separate entrances. Renovated. Chana: 0523827037. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colonyâ&#x20AC;?: 02-561-1611. Stern St. 5 room apartment renovated. 4th floor. Elevator in process. Chana: 0523827037. Colony: 02-561-1611. MALHA Dreamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house, high standing, 6 rooms (260 msq.), luxurious, high ceilings, garden, terrace, opened view, potential, parking. Hamishkenote 054-467-1623 Dorit. MAMILLA Beautiful apartment. 3 rooms, 130 sqm. Balcony with view to Tower of David, 2nd floor, elevator, very luxurious apartment. Garden. $1,300,000. (#103) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-(0)2566-7664. www.idealisrael.com MEKOR HAIM - 3,5 rooms, recent building, 2nd floor, nice and pleasant, sukkah/ balcony, storage-room, cover parking 1,250,000 shekels - â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hamishkenoteâ&#x20AC;? 054522-0453 Mikey. Close to the German Colony. 4.5 rooms (100 sq.m.), amazing view, quiet, storageroom. Exclusive to Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-561-8101. MUSRARA 4 rooms, quiet, old Arab style, renovated, ground floor, high ceilings, 107 square meters, huge sukkah terrace, $600,000. Contact Annette (054-255-6225) RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remax-capital. com. NACHLAOT New private house, 180 sqm. With possibility for immediate expansion of additional 40 sqm. (official permission for this specific apartment.) Access to house by car. Close to Shaarei Hesed. $1,250,000. (#118) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-(0)2-566-7664. OLD KATAMON Impressive garden flat. 460sqm. In Arab-style house close to Talbiyeh. High ceilings, 3 floors, Â˝ dunam plot.(#114) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-2-566-7664. wwwidealisrael.com Magnificent, modern 9-room home with garden and all amenities, 295 sqm. Ground floor 140 sqm with garden can be sold separately. Contact: Edna 050 633

0850 RE/MAX VISION 02 673 1661 www. remax-capital.com

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

old katamon: 5-room apartment, renovated, large succah terrace, elevator. Bright and sunny, 4 exposures. Veronique 054-202-0446.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

old katamon: 2nd floor, duplex completely renovated, 2 terraces, bright, very close to the German Colony. Veronique 054-202-0446.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il Completely renovated

designer apartment. 3 rooms, 65 sqm. Asking: $425,000. Contact: Edna 050 633 0850 RE/MAX VISION 02 673 1661 www.remaxcapital.com Well located in the heart of Old Katamon, charming 3 room apartment, 70 sqm, with building rights. Contact: Edna 050 633 0850 RE/MAX VISION 02 673 1661 www.remaxcapital.com Palatial 220 sqm garden apartment in Old Katamon. Private entrance, private garden, newly renovated to highest standard, unique design. Asking 8,750,000 NIS. Contact Ilana 0545-341-403 or Dov 052-553-3739 RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remax-capital.com Renovated garden apt., 6 rooms, separated into 2 floors in heart of old Katamon. Plus private garden and yard. Yossi 052-346-2990. OLD CITY Incredible Old City Home. Mamluk period 3 level house with private entrance,150 square meters, 6 rooms with a separate 2-room unit. Includes 60 sqm. balcony space with panoramic views of the Old City including Har HaBayit and a partial view of the Kotel. The property is in need of renovation. Contact Ilana 054-534-1403 RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remaxcapital.com.

RAMAT ESHKOL

Givat Hamivtar! 350 sq.m. built on 3 levels, balconies overlooking view, private parking. Exclusive to Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-5618101 RAMAT SHARET

Te l : 0 2 - 6 7 9 8 3 7 7

Rechov David Meretz. 8-room cottage + 2 separate units. Beautiful, renovated in fine taste. Gardens, balconies, storage & parking. Shimon Cohen 054-645-8101.

ACTIVE MODEL REAL ESTATE AGENCY, EST. 1994

YOSSI SPIELMAN

4.5 rooms, spacious, 120 sqm., elevator, private storage. Only 1,440,000nis. Exclusive to Active Model Realty (1994). Call Yossi at 02-561-9854, 052-346-2990. ď?Ąď?Łď?´ď?Šď?śď?Ľď&#x2122;&#x2039;ď&#x2122;&#x2039;@ď?˘ď?Ľď?şď?Ľď?ąď?Šď?Žď?´.ď?Žď?Ľď?´

RAMOT Currently under construction! Villa (200 sq.m.) elevator, on 400 sq.m. plot, 2-car garage, spectacular view. ANGLO-SAXON 02-625-1161, Shlomi 054-782-8414. Ramot Bet, beautiful 5 rooms semidetached house + huge garden, view and quiet. Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-5618101. RECHAVIA Penthouse with private pool and private roof. Central location. Beautiful building, private elevator, 2 parking spots, Sukkah and view. (#117) 5,000,000 $. Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-2566-7664. Hertzog St. 3.5 rooms (65 sq.m.), ground floor with excess to garden, needs renovation + option to expansion! Exclusive to Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-561-8101. Small, cute apartment in Rechavia. 65 sqm., 2.5 rooms, 5th floor with elevator. Private parking, good condition. | JULY 2008

CLASSIFIEDS 1,120,000nis. (#120) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-2-566-7664.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

rehavia: Ben Maimon, 160 meters, ground floor, huge sukka terrace from salon, parking, for renovation. Exclusivity. Vic 054-804-0690.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

rehavia: Beautiful 4- room apartment , 117 sqm., c.o. , 2 terraces and 1 sukkah terrace, 3 exposures, very bright. Moshe 054-479-3384.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

rehavia: Big 3- room apartment,81 sqm., 6th floor, new building, 3 exposures, terrace sukkah, beautiful view. Moshe 054-479-3384.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

rehavia: Penthouse, 140 sqm., large sukkah terrace, bright, 4 exposures, quiet, privacy, elevator, private parking, Veronique Losky 054-202-0446.

ALEX LOSKY

Real Estate Group www.losky.co.il

rehavia: Very close to the Great synagogue, top floor, elevator, in process of renovation, 3 bedrooms ,2 bathrooms, bright, parking. Veronique Losky 054-202-0446. www.shiurtimes.com

Next to Aza St. 4 rooms, 1st floor, garden, calm, renovated. Exclusive to Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-561-8101. Flat with potential! Quiet, dead-end street, flat needs renovation. 1st floor. $495,000. (#122) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-2-566-7664. Stunning newly renovated 4 room apartment with sukkah balcony, covered parking, Shabbat elevator. Central location. Asking 2,650,000 NIS. Contact Ilana (0545341-403) or Dov (052-553-3739), RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remax-capital. com. 4 room apartment: 100 sq.m. Renovated. Exit to a garden. 2.400.000 Shekel. Haviva: 050-5525250, Yaniv: 052-8028526. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colonyâ&#x20AC;?: 02-561-1611. Unique Penthouse, 309 square meters with over 100 square meters of balconies, Shabbat elevator, private parking. Contact Ilana (054-534-1403) or Dov (052-5533739) RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www. remax-capital.com. Well kept building, 4 rooms, 2nd floor, balconies, A/C, quiet and green, immediately - $ 500,000. Hamishkenote 054-522-0453 Miky . Green and quiet in Rehavia. 1st floor, 80 sqm., 3 room apartment in need of renovation. Sukkah balcony. Option to purchase renovated. Contact Ilana (0545341-403) or Dov (052-553-3739), RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remax-capital. com. Central Shaarei Chesed! 320 sqm. house on a corner lot, 6 rooms plus separate unit and courtyard. Needs renovation. Asking $2,500,000. Contact Ilana 054-534-1403 or Dov 052-553-3739 RE/MAX Vision 02-6731661 www.remax-capital.com. Penthouse on a new building. 300 sq.m+ 35 sq.m. balcony + 300 sq.m. roof balcony with private swimming pool! Very high standard! Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02561-8101. SAN SIMON Haim Yachil St. 100 sq.m., renovated and well-lit, quiet, elevator, large storage-room and parking. Ambassador Israel 5652* or 02-561-8101. TALBIEH Five rooms, 120 sqm. 5th floor with elevator,

CLASSIFIEDS

‫בס“ד‬

TOURS: KOTEL TUNNELS, TZFAT/GALIL, MASSADA, IR DOVID, JEEPS, HEVRON ROSH HANIKRA & MORE GREAT GUIDES!

Special price for the first 15 buyers Registration has started! for details call: 050.780.8151

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CALL FOR OUR EXCITING SUMMER SCHEDULE private parking. Asking price is $750,000. (#125) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 972-(0)2-566-7664. Great opportunity in Talbieh. 5 room apartment. 130 sq.m. + Parking. Close to the great synagogue. 050-5525250. Colony: 02-561-1611. Hanassi St. Unique 3 room apartment (115 sq.m.)!!! 1st floor, high standard renovation. Balcony overlooking view. Keys at Ambassador Israel *5652 or 02-5618101. Next to President’s House. Apartment 115 sqm., renovated with fine taste. 1st floor with balcony. 4,000,000nis. (#121) Ideal Real Estate & Investments Telephone: 02-566-7664. www.idealisrael.com Achad Ha’Am, lovely 3 rooms, spacious & bright, 80 square meters, balconies, 1.5 flights. Contact Shira Israel (050-8759569). RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www. remax-capital.com.

The most astonishing view to Har Habayit! 600 sq.m. Duplex. Near Har Tzion + garden and porch. $4,000,000 Sonia: 050-5595773. “Colony”: 02-561-1611. YEMIN MOSHE Stunning renovated home in Yemin Moshe, unique design, 3 bedrooms, separate formal dining room, spacious terrace with panoramic view of the Old City walls. Asking NIS 6,500,000 Contact Ilana (054-534-1403) or Dov (052-553-3739) RE/MAX Vision 02-673-1661 www.remaxcapital.com.

Phone 02-587-1718 Fax 02-587-1719 US 1-718-701-3690 www.artzeinu.co.il artzeinu@netvision.net.il

| JULY 2008

RECIPE

Stuffed Mushrooms

Submitted by Chana Tamir, Moshav Keshet, Golan Heights

INGREDIENTS: 20 champignon mushrooms (medium sized) a small amount of olive oil for frying 2 cloves of garlic, chopped 30 grams roasted almonds, chopped 10 leaves basil 3 green onions 1 tsp. balsamic vinegar 1 tsp. sesame oil ½ tsp. salt 40 grams goat cheese 30 grams grated Tzfatit Cheese

SAUCE 50 grams butter (cut into cubes) 3 cloves garlic, chopped container of sour cream (shamenet shel pa’am) for cooking 2 stalks of thyme ½ teaspoon salt

PREPARATION: Pre-heat your oven to 200ºC, then remove the stems of your mushrooms, and chop them up. Heat a skillet with the olive oil and add chopped stems, basil, garlic, almonds, and green onions. Sautee and stir together. Add balsamic vinegar, sesame oil, and cheeses. Mix them together until the cheeses are soft. Remove from heat, fill the mushrooms with your mixture, and set them into a baking dish. MAKING THE SAUCE: Heat small pot with butter. Add in garlic, thyme, and salt. Heat until browned and add in the sour cream. When it starts to boil, remove from fire. Pour the sauce over the mushrooms, and bake in the oven for 20 minutes.

YIELD: 6 servings

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LAST LAUGH

An Israeli mayor in a small town is walking past a construction site with his wife. One of the construction workers stops and calls out to the woman. “What’s new, Sara?” “Why, it’s nice to see you again Avi,” the woman replies. She turns to introduce her husband to the construction worker, and they speak for several minutes.

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After the mayor and his wife continue on, he turns to his wife to ask how she knows him. “Oh,” she said. “We went together in high school. I even thought about marrying him.” The husband began to laugh.“You don’t realize how lucky you are. If I hadn’t come along, today you would be the wife of a construction worker!”

“Doctors in Israel are now slowly drawing Prime Minister Ariel Sharon out of his coma to see what his remaining brain function is. Political experts say it is unlikely someone could run a country with a severe loss of brain activity. I beg to differ.” --Jay Leno

The wife replied without hesitation, “Not really. If I had married him, he’d now be a mayor!”

   

solution @ www.shiurtimes.com

A good, old English Jew felt that death was close and asked his sons to take him to the Holy Land, to die there and be buried in Jerusalem. The loving sons did as he asked, brought him to Jerusalem, put him in a hospital and waited for death to come. However, once in Jerusalem the old man felt better and better and in some weeks was again strong, healthy and full of life. He called upon his sons and told them: “ Take me quickly back to the United States.” The sons were somehow disappointed and asked: “Father how come? You said you want to die in the Holy Land and be buried in Jerusalem!’ “Yes,” answered the father, to die it’s OK but to live here....!?”

| JULY 2008

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| May 2008